Business Network Nov 24

THE FIRST WORD

Finding efficient energy sources has been a challenge for humanity since the first spark kindled a flickering flame. And in the 21st century we’ve still not cracked it, with the challenges now magnified by the need to cut our carbon emissions.

The recent closure of the UK’s last coal-powered power station at Ratcliffe-onSoar was a sign that, despite the problems still to overcome when it comes to replacing outdated forms of energy production, the right steps are being taken.

This edition of Business Network has an energy theme to tie in with the East Midlands Energy Summit which takes place at the Burnaston headquarters of Toyota on 28 November.

Toyota itself, is an example of a large-scale manufacturer which is looking at new ways to streamline energy usage – and you can find out more in our focus pages which start on page 76.

The focus pages also look at the closure of Ratcliffe – which has been a major landmark on the East Midlands skyline for almost 60 years.

Within a couple more years the eight cooling towers will be demolished. We hear from the team at East Midlands Freeport about the plans to put the site at the heart of the UK’s energy and technology revolution – turning it into a symbol of the future, not just the past.

This edition of the magazine is also delighted to celebrate the news that East Midlands Chamber chair Kevin Harris has been honoured with the inaugural President’s Award at the 2024 British Chambers of Commerce Awards.

If anyone deserves recognition for their years of dedication to championing business in their region, it’s Kevin.

Elsewhere we hear about new plans to keep Derby at the centre of the UK rail industry, further US growth for Bloc Digital and all the latest news from the Chamber.

I hope you enjoy the read.

Tom Pegden, Editor, Business Network

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Cover photo

Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station

(Credit: Uniper)

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BUSINESS NETWORK is produced on behalf of East Midlands Chamber

NOVEMBER 2024

MEMBER NEWS

4 New UK rail hub is right on track

APPOINTMENTS

28 Third director for cyber security firm

THE BIG INTERVIEW

31 Dominika Walker, community engagement regional lead at Tomato Energy

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

38 Accountants scale peaks for charity

CHAMBER NEWS

42 Chamber anticipates interest rate cut

44 Accelerator Project

A round-up of the latest applications

CHAMBER NETWORKS

58 National Manufacturing Day events

TRAINING & EVENTS

62 Tickets on sale for Christmas lunch

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

66 Improving rail links offers range of benefits

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

68 Chamber services to help you export

POLITICS

70 EM DevCo project comes to an end

FEATURES

72 Digital Media Services

Creating a marketing strategy for success

74 Keeping new technology accessible for all

76 FOCUS

How a range of energy projects are helping the East Midlands to embrace the challenge of powering the future

84 Business Banking & Finance

A guide to Family Investment Companies

86 Why cyber insurance is crucial for business

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

90 Video specialists relaunch and restructure

BUSINESS SUPPORT

92 LEGAL

The infrastructure benefits of PFI model

94FINANCE

Why accountants should embrace AI

97 SKILLS

New hub will offer technology training

98 PROPERTY

First tenants dock at hi-tech offices

100 MOTORING

Nick Jones test drives the new Renault Austral with four-wheel steering

THE LAST WORD

102 Chamber president Stuart Dawkins argues that green technologies must now be an integral part of all economic growth

Plans submitted for new logistics facility

Developers PLP and Indurent have submitted plans for a 645,000 sq ft logistics facility near East Midlands Airport.

They want to build on a 38-acre site next to Junction 24A of the M1, near the airport and East Midlands Gateway rail freight terminal.

The proposed development, designed by Michael Sparks Associates, will be delivered speculatively and, pending planning from North West Leicestershire District Council, should be ready by early 2026.

Jake Shilston is development director at Indurent, which was formed earlier this year through the combination of Industrials REIT and St. Modwen Logistics.

He said: “Our proposal for this site will provide businesses with a stateof-the-art logistics facility in a prime location in the Golden Triangle, with easy access to customers across the UK and Europe.

“We are confident this development will boost economic growth by creating employment opportunities for local residents and businesses in North West Leicestershire and the East Midlands.”

Rail hub is on track

New plans dedicated to supporting collaboration within the UK rail industry have been launched.

Rail Campus Derby will bring together industry and academia to build on the city’s rich history within the British rail sector.

The plans are a joint effort between Derby City Council, the Great British Railways Transition Team, East Midlands Combined County Authority and other public and private sector bodies.

The city has more than 180 years of rail history and the sector still employs more than 11,000 locally.

The campus will encourage industrial collaboration and research – supporting operations already based in the city and

Engineering firm lands major airport contract

Derbyshire-based engineering and pipeline specialist Rayden Engineering has been awarded a multi-million-pound contract at Manchester Airport.

It will help build a new aviation fuel pipeline as part of the £1.3bn redevelopment work which is underway at the UK’s third busiest airport.

Manchester Airport Group – which also owns East Midlands Airport – is spending the money modernising and expanding the airport’s infrastructure and facilities, with Terminal 2 at the centre of the work.

Rayden managing director Richard Hayden said: “We are immensely proud to have won this major aviation fuel pipeline project, following the successful delivery of our previous fuel pipeline works, completed at the airport in September, earlier this year.”

Rayden Engineering was established in 1979, and is a family-run mechanical and civil engineering business, specialising in the manufacture and installation of high-pressure pipelines and associated work, primarily for the gas, oil, petrochemical, power, aviation and water industries.

Richard said they had been working with Manchester Airport since 1994.

The business has previously completed big projects at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 expansion and numerous RAF airbases.

providing an incentive for others to move there.

It comes on the back of the 2023 decision to make the city home to the new Great British Railwayswhich is still looking for a permanent Derby headquarters.

Speaking at the launch event, Secretary of State for Transport Louise Haigh MP said: “Derby is already a hub for rail with the largest concentration of innovation and expertise in Europe, and I was delighted to see how the local council plans to expand this even further through a new Rail Campus.

“The railways are at the centre of our plans for change, and I look forward to seeing how the campus will lead to greater innovation, growth and collaboration,

benefitting not only our rail network but the wider economy too.”

Council leader Cllr Nadine Peatfield said: “This is a once-in-alifetime opportunity for Derby –one that will create more training and jobs for local people, and bring huge opportunities for further regeneration.

“Rail Campus Derby will not only preserve our rail heritage, but will also be a catalyst for future economic growth, bringing together all aspects of the railway industry, attracting more investment and creating further opportunities for collaboration across the sector.”

East Midlands mayor Claire Ward said: “The new Rail Campus will be a hub of learning and innovation.

Design specialists expand US operations

A 3D digital design specialist, which works with clients ranging from engine manufacturers to exhibition organisers, housebuilders and visitor attractions, is expanding its US operations.

Bloc Digital Inc is setting up a second US office in Wichita, Kansas – often referred to as the “Air Capital of the World”.

The Derbyshire-based company now has two Stateside offices, with its US headquarters in Mentor, Ohio.

“It will bring together public and private sector organisations in a collaborative environment, working towards faster and more efficient outcomes for all the railway’s stakeholders.

“As the mayor of the East Midlands, my vision is to ensure that local people have the skills they need to access the well-paid jobs that this industry provides.

“That’s why we will be investing in training programmes and creating new opportunities in partnership with Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire’s educational institutions.

“We want to see local people –our young people – benefiting from the jobs and careers this project will generate.”

Bloc has taken a lease on around 3,400 sq ft of space in the Epic Center, located in the heart of downtown Wichita.

The expansion will help it broaden its North American client base, particularly in the aerospace, aviation and industrial sectors.

Co-director Keith Cox said: “After starting our US journey in Ohio just over a year ago, and with 25 years in the aviation and space industry across the UK and Europe, expanding into Wichita was the obvious next step for Bloc Digital Inc.”

Co-director Chris Hotham said: “We are thrilled to be opening our third office in the Epic Center.

“Kansas is already proving to be a great strategic decision for Bloc Digital and will certainly be an exciting new adventure with many opportunities.”

‘Kansas is already proving to be a great strategic decision for Bloc Digital’

Bloc Digital won two categories at the Chamber’s 2023 Derbyshire Business Awards – for Excellence in International Trade and Small Business of the Year.

The new office will open early next year and is already recruiting.

Business manager Mckenna Walker said: “I’m really energised about the potential for growth in Wichita

with such a booming aerospace industry and great opportunities to help those companies with the bespoke solutions we can provide to be more connected, work smarter and have greater impact with their markets.

“They’ve been incredibly welcoming thus far. I’m looking forward to growing those relationships with an open office.”

The Greater Wichita Partnership helped with the expansion plans after meeting company representatives at the 2023 Paris Air Show.

Partnership economic development spokesman Andrew Nave said: “Their expertise in immersive and data-driven technologies will further elevate our industries and position Wichita businesses at the forefront of innovation.

“We look forward to the valuable contributions the Bloc Digital team will have on our growing tech landscape.”

Cautious welcome for Rights Bill

East Midlands Chamber has given its reaction to the new government’s Employment Rights Bill, which includes measures such as ending zero hours contracts and protecting workers against unfair dismissal.

Director of policy and insight

Richard Blackmore said: “The timeframe in implementation of this new bill, consideration of sectoral differences and consultation with the business community is essential as changes are brought in.

“While reforming the protection of workers will likely help with staff retention, it’s vitally important that there’s careful consideration for the challenges faced by businesses, still mired in the crisis in the cost of doing business.

“Flexible working, for example, to be standard ‘where possible’, as

stand ready to voice any concerns of the East Midlands business community and share insight with the new government.”

the government has said, is open to interpretation and that’s where you start to get ambiguity.

“Businesses need clarity and reasonable time to make changes.

While it’s right that workers have security and fair treatment, the business community must be fully supported.

“At East Midlands Chamber we

New data published by the Office for National Statistics showed the third consecutive drop in East Midlands unemployment, while the rate of joblessness in the region among over 16s fell from 4.8% to 4.4%.

Richard said: “Falling unemployment in the East Midlands is encouraging to see, especially as the new figure is slightly lower than this time last year and accompanied by a slight reduction in economic inactivity and a rise in employment to 60.2%.

“That said, at the start of 2023 unemployment was lower in East Midlands and the region still sits below the national picture.”

Downtown Wichita, including the distinctive Epic Center, where Bloc Digital has opened new offices

Manchester Airport

Richard Blackmore

Derby South MP Baggy Shankar, Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson, Secretary of State for Transport Louise Haigh MP, East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward and Derby City Council leader Cllr

Nadine Peatfield

Partnership will help businesses implement AI

Businesses across the East Midlands will be able to ready themselves for their journey to AI implementation by attending Chamber workshops and training sessions, following the announcement of a new partnership between East Midlands Chamber and IT and software development company, NetMonkeys.

Under this new strategic partnership NetMonkeys will share its substantial expertise in advancing technology to work with the Chamber in supporting East Midlands businesses preparing for, or wishing to learn more about AI implementation.

Formed in 2006, NetMonkeys provides IT and software services from bases at several UK locations, with a Nottingham office at Weekday Cross in the city centre. Services provided by NetMonkeys are wide-ranging and cover aspects like Microsoft Cloud, cybersecurity, business intelligence implementation, Sharepoint, on-site security through to extensive managed IT support, helping businesses with areas like efficient software implementation, infrastructure management and cyber essentials certifications.

NetMonkeys business applications cover Business Central and Dynamic 365 projects while software development includes AI, machine learning, robotic process automation.

‘Our teams specialise in process improvement, automation and gaining an ‘edge’ for our clients’

East Midlands Chamber’s chief executive Scott Knowles said: “AI is here, it’s here to stay and for the East Midlands to thrive, businesses of all sizes need to be ready, whether they’re already some way into a plan and want to develop it or haven’t yet dipped their toe into the water and want to learn more.

“No one could conceivably do business these days without a smartphone, and that’s what we’ll say about AI not far from now.

NetMonkeys have geared-up businesses with the software they need to achieve their goals and grow. Whether it’s keeping systems

running smoothly or developing bespoke technology, NetMonkeys is as passionate as it is clued-up in the needs of business and adapting to them.

“Pairing the resources of the Chamber and the vast insight we have into the challenges our members face, with the extensive digital skills of NetMonkeys means we can collectively deliver truly outstanding support to businesses across the East Midlands and propel their AI journey.

“I very much look forward to working with NetMonkeys at this key time of technological evolution, providing first class AI support to our members.”

NetMonkeys managing director Nick Gall said: “Embracing AI gives businesses not only a protective armour against the changing technological landscape to safeguard success but upskills them with the tools to get ahead of competition. To date, our story has been about being steps ahead of impending change and that’s why we love doing what we do.

“We’ve developed software that

NetMonkeys offers managed IT support and software services

helped hundreds of East Midlands businesses to achieve more through the use of technology.

“Our teams specialise in process improvement, automation and gaining an ‘edge’ for our clients. Our use of AI has resulted in tens of thousands of pounds not only saved but gained!

“This special AI partnership with East Midlands Chamber will be of huge benefit. The Chamber is the voice of the business community across the region and is known for the superb support it gives businesses to help them grow.

NetMonkeys knows AI. We have a wealth of experience, with over 15 years tailoring software products and supporting businesses across the UK with the technological infrastructure they need to thrive and stay competitive.

“This collaboration with East Midlands Chamber will unlock the full potential of AI implementation, whether it’s a training session for staff at a business or supporting a business with its entire AI strategy, I very much look forward to working together.”

Funding to help make fashion sustainable

An expert in fashion sustainability at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) has become the institution’s first to be awarded a prestigious £100,000 research award.

Associate Professor Dr Amy Twigger Holroyd, of the Nottingham School of Art & Design, was awarded the Philip Leverhulme Prize in recognition of her research in helping envisage a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.

Among Dr Twigger Holroyd’s work during the past 10 years is the internationally recognised ‘Fashion Fictions’ project, which sees people imagine and carry out alternative fashion systems as a strategy for sustainability.

The project, which connects design, fashion, making and sustainability, has engaged over 5,000 people through more than 120 activities in universities, schools and communities across six of the seven continents.

Dr Twigger Holroyd’s work has also involved developing the ‘Stitching Together’ network –funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) – which saw the development of good practice guidelines that are now used by textiles organisations in 17 countries.

Dr Twigger Holroyd, who is a previous recipient of the vice-chancellor’s award for excellence in research at NTU, said: “This award is an incredible privilege – I am delighted to be selected for something as prestigious as a Philip Leverhulme Prize.

“My research has been driven by a desire for real-world change in the fashion industry so that action can be taken to reduce its impact on the planet. The industries that supply our everyday clothes are dominated by companies that are driven by economic growth, but the pursuit of this growth has been proven to lead to environmental damage.”

Nick Gall

Professor Dr Amy Twigger Holroyd

Greg Hollingsworth

Greg’s accolade in landmark year

Greg Hollingsworth has been inaugurated as president of the Leicestershire Law Society – coinciding with the 30-year anniversary of his qualifying as a solicitor.

The milestone and announcement of his presidency highlight Greg’s dedication to the legal profession and his deep-rooted connection to Leicester, where he is director and owner of Hollingsworths Solicitors.

Greg studied law at the University of Leicester before completing his finals at De Montfort University.

He is a keen runner, a trustee of the Sir Thomas White Loan Charity and has raised funds for mental health charity Lamp, for which he is an ambassador.

As president he plans to focus on promoting wellbeing within the legal profession, challenging the prevailing notion of wearing stress as a badge of honour.

Lamp and The YMCA have already identified as the chosen charities for his presidential term and he hopes to promote both at community events across Leicestershire and Rutland.

Greg said: “I am honoured to take on the role of president of the Leicestershire Law Society. This position not only marks a personal achievement but also presents an opportunity to give back to a community that has supported me throughout my legal career. I am grateful to my colleagues and clients for their support over many years.

“I look forward to working collaboratively with the society’s members, our universities and other professionals to enhance the well-being of our profession, grow our community links, and to continue to promote Leicestershire and Rutland as a centre of legal excellence.”

Chamber chair wins BCC President’s Award

The chair of East Midlands Chamber has been honoured with the inaugural President’s Award at the 2024 British Chambers of Commerce Awards.

Kevin Harris was up against representatives of some of the biggest chambers, and received the award following a public vote.

The award recognises someone who has made a unique contribution to a Chamber of Commerce through achievements such as improving the local business environment, championing diversity and inclusivity, building partnerships to stimulate growth, and inspiring colleagues through their leadership.

Kevin said: “I’m absolutely delighted to receive this award, and it’s great to be its first recipient. It’s nice to win something that was voted for by the chamber network.

“It’s been a real joy to be involved with the Chamber for the last 15 years or so and seeing it move forward over that time.

“Being part of East Midlands Chamber since its inception and seeing it grow and develop has been a privilege and this is recognition not just for me but for the whole team. It’s a sign that the whole Chamber has been a success.

“Chambers of Commerce play a very important role in helping the

business community and have a key role to play in helping the Government deliver its agenda and work even closer with business.”

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Kevin’s work for East Midlands Chamber has been nothing short of exemplary and there are tens of thousands of people in across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire that have benefited from the sheer dedication Kevin has given to impact their lives and the wider economy.

‘Kevin not only excels in the depth of skill and insight he has in business, but his passion for the East Midlands and its people’

“The board of directors, of which Kevin is chair, give their time, energy and wealth of business experience from a broad range of sectors voluntarily, to champion the East Midlands and grow its economy.

“Kevin not only excels in the depth of skill and insight he has in business, but his passion for the East Midlands and its people is

unparalleled. You only have to look at the numbers – tens of millions of pounds into business growth; tens of thousands of people into employment and you see this is someone that’s really impacted the region’s growth.

“Kevin’s put heart and soul into the region with over a decade working for East Midlands Chamber as a director, then as president and now chair of the board.

“I thank him for his continued commitment and congratulate him for this award, which couldn’t be more deserved.”

Kevin, a partner at RSM UK’s Leicester office, joined the board in 2013. He was elected president in 2018 and subsequently elected as chairman in February 2023. He was previously chair of Leicester and Leicestershire Local Enterprise Partnership where he led the creation and development of two enterprise zones.

He has been a member of the Midlands Engine executive board and is a founding member of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (British Business Bank).

In his years with the Chamber Kevin has supported work which has helped 15,000 people into employment and which has seen £48m of support grants given to the region’s businesses.

Kevin Harris (right) with Scott Knowles and Jean Mountain at the Enterprising Women Awards

A crucial branch of education

Some 90% of primary schools within the 200 square miles of the National Forest regularly undertake outdoor learning experiences – up from 20% in 2016 and double the national average.

Management said that over the past 30 years the new woodland area has worked hard to increase outdoor learning provision with local schools.

Despite challenges such as curriculum pressures and barriers like teacher training needs, perceived risks and limited access to greenspace, they said outdoor learning was now integrated into the everyday teaching of most primary schools in the National Forest.

Steps the National Forest has taken include helping schools create and improve outdoor learning spaces within their grounds or connect them with nearby green spaces.

Additionally, they have provided teachers with support and training to help them deliver lessons in subjects such as literacy, numeracy, science and environmental education in an outdoor setting.

Gill Forrester, community and wellbeing manager at the National Forest Company, said: “We have supported the transformation of 90 percent of our schools in a relatively short period of time, proving that, through our five-point plan, schools can run sessions themselves and outdoor learning can become mainstream.

“Outdoor learning has moved from a novelty to a necessity. Our aim is to encourage a culture change in schools, and to give them the confidence that it is possible.

“Training teachers, creating outdoor learning areas, and building their confidence has allowed this change to happen sustainably.

“Schools were eager to embrace this approach, and we’re thrilled to

Some 90% of primary schools now embrace outdoor learning in the National Forest

‘Schools participating in the National Forest outdoor learning initiative have reported significant improvements in students’ confidence, communication, teamwork and mental health’

see how it has positively impacted students.”

She said the importance of outdoor learning has never been greater as children and young people facing fresh physical and mental health challenges, made worse by poverty, the climate crisis and the lingering effects of the pandemic.

A spokeswoman said: “Outdoor learning offers a powerful remedy, with its positive impacts being well-documented.

“Having schools run sessions themselves and on-site reduces risks and cost, meaning that young people from all backgrounds across the National Forest can now benefit from a greater connection to nature.

“Schools participating in the National Forest outdoor learning initiative have reported significant improvements in students’ confidence, communication, teamwork and mental health.

“These benefits are particularly

evident among children who struggle in traditional classroom settings or are from more disadvantaged areas.”

Burton Fields School, for instance, has committed to embedding outdoor learning into the curriculum and its everyday teaching and is seeing positive effects on both children and staff.

It now delivers outdoor lessons across all year groups, every week.

Outdoor learning teacher Jennie Lowry said: “I have children who have not always come to school willingly and through outdoor learning, we’ve seen those children go ‘okay, I'm going to do something that I really enjoy’ and they have started to come to school.

“It’s a really exciting thing that we do here.”

Headteacher Maddy Burkett said that the effects of outdoor learning had been recognised by Ofsted. She said: “We were really

pleased to be graded outstanding for behaviour, attitudes and personal development – they were just so impressed with the children's knowledge and interest in outdoor learning and how we had integrated it fully into the curriculum and it was impacting on every aspect of the children’s lives.”

Becky Wilkinson, learning and outreach manager from the Forest Education Network England, said: “Children thrive when they learn through real-life experiences, engaging all their senses through movement and exploration.

“Outdoor learning is not just beneficial—it’s essential for every child’s development.

“The National Forest is at the forefront, demonstrating the powerful impact outdoor education can have, and leading the way towards a future where 100% of primary school children have access to these transformative opportunities.”

The National Forest is now working to get to 100% of primary schools involved and expanding support for outdoor learning into secondary schools and pre-schools.

Goll Forrester said: “The results speak for themselves, and we hope that our success will inspire other schools across the forest, region and nationally to follow suit.

“Continued collaboration with schools and partners remains paramount.

“Together, we are fostering a generation of young people who are connected to nature, empowered to care for their environment, and better equipped to face the challenges of the future.”

Partners that have played a crucial role in the work include The Audemars Piguet Foundation, the Morrisons Foundation and Leicester City in the Community.

The National Forest

Guide highlights Derby’s variety of food offerings

The latest free food and drink guide has been published showing all the places to eat and drink in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter.

The guide has been put together by the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District (BID) to shine a spotlight on almost 100 bars, delis, award-winning restaurants, coffee shops and clubs.

Eve Taylor, the BID’s project executive, said: “We are really proud of the new guide because we get so much positive feedback from people telling us how useful it is – and how great our venues are.”

The launch of the guide coincides with a social media campaign which also celebrated Purple Flag month in October – a national accreditation that allows the public to quickly identify places that offer an entertaining, diverse, safe and enjoyable night out.

Eve said: “We’d also like to remind people to download the Cathedral Quarter’s money-saving app, LoyalFree – which is supported and used by local Derby businesses.

Languages provider is making the grade

A language services provider has been appointed to the ESPO Language Services (402) Framework after a rigorous selection process.

Management at PAB Languages Centre said the achievement underscored its commitment to delivering top-tier services, with stringent quality standards, social value contributions and operational excellence.

PAB underwent thorough checks and faced stiff competition to secure a place on the ESPO framework, which is a select list of suppliers offering language services, interpretation services, translation and transcription services to the education sector.

Iwona Lebiedowicz, managing director of PAB Languages Centre, said: “Being part of this prestigious

“While you’re enjoying the new food and drink guide, you could find a few money-off deals in some of the cafes and bars!”

She said hundreds of people had downloaded the app to unlock discounts and deals from businesses across the city centre including cafés, restaurants, and bars.

You can read the food and drink guide here: is.gd/HQI5np

framework is not just a great achievement; it’s a responsibility that we take very seriously.

“This is not just a recognition of our past achievements but also a gateway to new opportunities.

“It enables us to expand our reach, offering existing and new clients enhanced services backed by the assurance of our framework standards.

“We look forward to leveraging this opportunity to foster stronger, more effective partnerships with our clients, driven by trust and mutual success.”

Pick Everard becomes part of Artelia group

Leicester-headquartered construction specialist Pick Everard, which has 13 UK offices, has been bought by global construction engineering giant Artelia.

Pick Everard, which has a history dating back 150 years, provides design and management services to clients across the built environment and infrastructure markets. It has seen sustained growth in recent years, achieving a most recent turnover of £71m.

It works within both the public and private sectors, and is a partner on more than 60 frameworks, which between them are worth more than £46bn.

Clients include the UK Parliament, Ministry of Justice, Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Severn Trent Water, XLCC, Defence and Science Technology Laboratory, Royal Mail Group and Selfridges.

Artelia, meanwhile. is one of the top 10 biggest construction engineering companies in Europe. It has a presence in more than 40 countries in five continents.

The deal follows its acquisition of Austin Newport Group in Birmingham in 2020, and Castons in Suffolk in March 2024.

Pick Everard chief executive Duncan Green said: “Joining the Artelia Group unlocks the next exciting phase of Pick Everard’s long history. This move immediately expands our network of colleagues from over 700 people in the UK, to 9,700 people across the Artelia Group.

“Culture alignment has been critical in our decision to join the Artelia Group, as we’ve sought a partner that is 100% employee-owned and with whom we share the same core values.

“In Artelia, we have found an organisation that echoes Pick Everard’s commitment to deliver better together for its people, clients, communities and the environment.”

Iwona Lebiedowicz

Milk & Honey in Derby

MEMBER PROFILE: COSY GARDEN ROOMS

We design and build garden rooms, and at the moment we are a small team of six. We don’t have a formal business base – we all have garden offices and work from home or on site at our customer’s houses.

We design and build fully insulated, quality garden rooms. We build each one to order, by hand, on site.

We don’t have a factory or buy pre-assembled kits and each garden room is built in situ. We build whatever the customer wants in terms of size, shape, design and configuration.

‘We will be recruiting for the beginning of 2025, and we have plans to continue to improve sustainability’

Garden rooms have a huge variety of uses so we don’t really have a customer type, if you have outside space or a garden then you can have a garden room.

We have built many buildings for business use, be that hairdressers, beauty salons, flower preservation specialists or photography studios we’ve even built one for making chocolate in.

Other things people use them for include offices which remain incredibly popular, then there are bars, games rooms, gyms and workout spaces, hobby rooms, playrooms and artist’s studios. We

Location: Jacksdale, Nottingham

Number of employees: Six

Name and job title:

Louise Jones, director

recently built a pottery studio for a lovely lady in Nottingham. We build relaxation or sitting rooms, entertaining spaces with outdoor kitchens. We’ve built a few rooms specifically for collectors and model train enthusiasts.

We started the business in October 2021, we were busy from the beginning. I think people focused on their homes during Covid times, and garden and outdoor spaces became more important than ever.

Working from home is quite commonplace now and we still build lots of offices or combined garden rooms with part of the building being an office. Lots of people are now choosing them over traditional extensions for annexes, spare rooms and guest rooms with more and more people are having showers and toilets fitted.

Over the last few years, we’ve had steady growth of around 20% year-on-year.

The future looks very bright for Cosy. 2024 has been our busiest year to date. We will be recruiting for the beginning of 2025, and we have plans to continue to improve sustainability and expand our work

with schools. With the Chamber we’re looking forward to making new connections, expanding our network, and increasing the visibility of the Cosy

brand. We’re even considering submitting an entry for an award. And we’ve already booked a couple of training courses to continue developing our skills.

Agency issues call for more foster carers

An independent fostering agency, which is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, is looking for more foster carers to provide life-changing support for disadvantaged kids.

Nexus Fostering works alongside councils to support and train carers, and has been making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people since 2002.

With its local office in Chilwell Nottingham, it is looking for foster carers who can make a difference in the lives of local children across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Leicestershire.

Nexus Fostering provides 24/7 support, 365 days a year, a competitive allowance, access to a head of education, a full range of fostering placements and a clinician in every office.

Among the people providing

care through Nexus are Nottingham couple Graham and Damian (Nexus does not share the surnames of the people it works with) who specialise in fostering children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Graham has experience working with vulnerable adults within the NHS as a health care assistant, while Damian is a manager for an energy company.

Both fiercely believe in giving the children in their care the childhood they deserve.

They have three children currently in placement, two siblings aged seven and eight and another child who is one-and-a-half.

Graham said: “They are all doing amazing and have come on leaps since being with us. The changes that we see are massive rewards for us.

“We absolutely love to see the children doing well, they all get on great and have a very special bond.

“You wouldn’t know they aren’t all siblings and even with the differences in age, its lovely to see when they’re playing together.”

Leicestershire couple Lizzie and Shaun (pictured), have opened their home to more than 300 children over more than three decades, experiencing every type of emotion along the way.

They currently have three children in their care – a 17-year-old who has been with them for three years and sibling brothers, aged five and six, who they hope to have until they are 18. The couple also have an adopted daughter.

Lizzie said: “Our role is to prepare them the best way we can for adult life.

“While they are under my roof, I fight for them like a mother tiger but once they are of an age to be independent, we hope they are in a secure place to go on and lead a wonderful life.”

If you think you can make a difference to a child’s life, call Nexus Fostering on 0800 389 0143, text ‘Fostering’ to 88440, or visit www.nexusfostering.co.uk. The Nottingham office is hosting fostering drop-in mornings on 19 November and 17 December from 11am-noon.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

“We now have a clear understanding of the way forward and have laid the foundations for a successful future. Without Richard and his skills and expertise, we would not be in this position.”

Coach to offer brokerage service

Business coach Matt Bull, of ActionCOACH Loughborough, is expanding the services he offers to include certified business brokerage.

The move comes in response to significant market changes affecting older business owners, many of whom had planned to retire by now, and follows a partnership with Businesses For Sale.

Matt said recent data suggests almost half of UK business owners aged 55 and above are considering selling their businesses due to financial pressures and other uncertainties.

A fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, he works with businesses of all sizes, from small owner-managed companies to multi-millionpound turnover PLCs.

Matt said economic factors such as the pandemic and repercussions of the war in Ukraine had delayed retirement plans for many, leaving them searching for viable exit strategies. The demand for professional guidance in business sales has surged as owners seek to navigate these challenges and secure their retirement.

By becoming a certified business broker, he aims to meet the growing demand for professional assistance in navigating challenging times, helping business owners achieve the retirement they’ve worked hard for.

He said: “I am excited to take this next step in my career, expanding my services to include business brokerage.

“Over the years, I’ve seen many business owners struggle with the complexities of selling their businesses. As a broker, I can now directly assist in this process, ensuring that my clients not only achieve their desired financial outcomes but also feel confident that their businesses are in capable hands moving forward.”

Milestone anniversary for marketing specialists

ANottingham website and digital marketing business, set up at the dawn of the internet, is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Volute was set up in 1999 at the founder Tim Ryan’s West Bridgford home and is now based in the city’s Lace Market area, with a team of creative and technical experts.

It provides web design and development, app creation, video and digital services to organisations nationally and internationally, with

clients including NHS England, the Institute of Mental Health, University of Warwick and Rushcliffe Borough Council.

About 70% of Volute’s work is within the NHS and healthcare sector, working with health commissioners, providers, research networks and academic partners.

Tim Ryan said: “When the business was launched, the internet was still in its infancy and social media networks like Myspace hadn’t even been invented. As a

qualified architect, I had always been interested in elements of design and applied this to the growing digital landscape. From small beginnings, Volute has continued to expand over the years to the size of the business it is today.”

The business partners with renewable energy suppliers and data centres to ensure that its web hosting, cooling and network is powered by 100% renewable energy.

Recognising top niche businesses

The winners of the 10th annual Niche Business Awards were revealed at a Great Gatsby-themed ceremony held at Athena in Leicester.

The awards, celebrating businesses across Leicestershire, were organised by marketing agency Cross Productions, which produces Niche Magazine.

Cross Productions chief executive Jenny Cross said: “Nothing makes me prouder than to see the entire business community come together to celebrate those on the rise, those who’ve contributed for many years, and those who are excelling in their respective fields.”

2024 WINNERS

• Best Customer Service –Sask Optics

• Best Family Business –ADS Laser Cutting

• Best Large Business – Adey Steel

• Best New Business – SGS Hub

• Best Small Business –Amedics Clinic

• Business Growth – HIT Technology

• Businessman of the Year –Dr Yasin El Ashrafi BEM

• Businesswoman of the Year –Dr Nora Albaldawi

• Community Champion –Rehana Sidat

• Creative – The Little Theatre

• Eco Excellence – Abacus Flooring Solutions

• Employer of the Year –Zinthiya Trust

• Entrepreneur of the Year –Bhumika Parmar

• Hospitality – Tap & Run

• Leicestershire Charity of the Year

– Wesley Hall Community Centre

• Lifetime Service Award –Dr Sanjiv Nichani OBE

• Professional Services –Motorsport Legal

• Rising Star – Nash Chhatralia

The Volute team with founder Tim Ryan (top right)

Matt Bull

From Nottingham to Northampton, Parkway Volkswagen is on hand to offer you friendly and informative advice on all aspects of purchasing and financing your next company car or personal contract hire lease. We can offer support throughout the process, from sourcing one car to helping to manage multiple purchases and supplying larger fleets.

There has never been a better time to consider Volkswagen for your fleet with our fantastic range of models offering something for everyone from our iconic Golf to hybrid and fully electric ID Range - all available in the new enhanced Match specification!

I would love the chance to talk to you in more detail. Please contact me on the details below or pop in for a chat and please check out my linkedin page at: www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-shipley-b1b4b4108/

Jodie Shipley

Fleet business development manager jodie.shipley@parkwayvolkswagen.co.uk

Telephone: 07703 830192

Hotel group unveils refit plans

Village Hotel Club has announced plans for a big investment across its 33 hotels and leisure clubs.

The plans, which will eventually see more than half the portfolio upgraded, include bedroom and facility extensions and refurbishments, upgraded facilities as well as acquisitions.

It coincides with the appointment of Robin Leahy in the newly created role of director of M&A, who will lead the growth plans.

The group includes Village Hotel Club Nottingham, which offers business, meetings, conferences and leisure facilities in Brailsford Way, Chilwell.

Earlier this year, Village was acquired by real estate funds managed by Blackstone, the world's biggest alternative asset manager and a long-term investor in the UK leisure sector. It now wants to grow Village’s UK footprint and brand.

The first phase of refurbishment

is set to be completed in early 2025, which will see nearly 600 rooms fully refurbished. Village is also investing heavily in its leisure facilities, with multiple gym expansions and refurbishments.

Construction will soon start on extensions of the Village Hotel Club in Ashton, Manchester and Solihull, which will see an additional 48 bedrooms in each. A further three locations are expected to be extended in 2025.

Gary Davis, chief executive of Village Hotel Club, said: “We believe that our “everything under one roof” ethos offers a fantastic experience for all, whether you’re a business traveller looking for a place to stay, someone in the local community in need of high-quality gym facilities, or just in search of a coffee break.

“With Blackstone’s partnership we see significant opportunities to grow our business and brand, including investing in our existing hotels and leisure clubs to add more value to guests.”

Water contract in the pipeline for engineers

Civil engineering firm Danaher & Walsh has signed a five-year water industry repair and maintenance contract.

This agreement ensures the Leicestershire firm’s continued collaboration with Anglian Water and alliance partners Clancy, Claret, and Public Sewer Services.

The alliance plays a critical role in maintaining the water recycling network across the Anglian Water region – from repairing burst mains to monitoring sewage flow and reducing pollution risks.

The new contract, running from April 2025 to April 2030, marks the start of an Ofwat-regulated period focused on achieving ambitious performance targets for water services.

The services provided by Danaher & Walsh include blockage clearance, the cleaning and CCTV inspection of sewer networks, tanker management, maintaining manhole covers and around-the-clock emergency responses.

Charity reaches out for support to help homeless

A charity helping get rough sleepers off the streets of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire has launched an appeal to save its street outreach services as it faces a funding shortfall of £189,122.

The Framework Street Outreach team said it comes despite the numbers of people sleeping rough soaring by 35%.

The charity supported 161 people in Nottingham City, 134 people in Nottinghamshire, and 128 in Sheffield in the month of August –up more than a third on the same month last year and compared to a 27% increase seen nationally.

Without the extra help charity management fear many people will not get the support they urgently need this winter.

Claire Eden, Framework’s head of fundraising and communications, said: “We need more resources, staff and specialist workers to address and meet the needs of the people we find sleeping rough.

“As recently as this summer, we found a family with young children sleeping on the streets. Our Winter Appeal SOS is a distress call. A call for urgent help and assistance.

“It is very important to Framework that we continue to meet the current need but also that we develop the services and

respond to emerging and specific needs – such as the needs of a growing number of women who are homeless but who are ‘hidden’ from services because of their need to stay safe from the perils of visibly sleeping rough. Perils such as sexual and physical abuse and harassment.”

Framework launched its Winter appeal with the Nottingham premiere of Someone’s Daughter, Someone’s Son, a documentary by Lorna Tucker that explores the lives of people sleeping rough. Now a successful filmmaker, Lorna was once a teenage runaway sleeping rough on the streets in London.

The teams in Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire and Sheffield work 365 days a year, providing life-saving support and advice for hundreds of people who are sleeping rough.

Visit: www.frameworkha.org

Representatives from all of the alliance partners (L-R): Jason Tucker, Emily Timmins, Paul Louth, Victoria Wilkinson, Andy Gibbons, Mike Cape, Angie Gawthorn, Jo Theobald and Nick Hill

AI has genuine benefits

Research by the British Chambers of Commerce suggests that 43% of small businesses have no plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence. James Ferraby (pictured), director of Leicestershire-based Digital Planning, sets out why they should reconsider.

Arecent article in Business Network was something of a revelation to me.

Research by the Insights Unit at the BCC suggested that four in 10 SMEs have no plans to introduce AI. This rose to 50% in B2C firms. My eyebrow raised further when I read that 2% of respondents believed that introducing AI would decrease their productivity.

This is quite something for a technological advance that is expected to have a similar impact to the introduction of the steam engine during the Industrial Revolution.

Clearly, it may be a case of not being able to envisage the potential applications of AI. My own SME specialises in complex digital automations in professional services, healthcare and manufacturing, so I’m trained to see the potential for change. For that reason, the article made me consider how AI transformation could be broken down into three tiers:

1. INTRODUCE AI TOOLS TO EVERYDAY TASKS

Our typical entry-level project looks for straightforward AI applications that any SME can implement with minimal effort. Well-known generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT and image creation software such as DALL-E, can provide immediate value.

These platforms can automate content creation, streamline communication, and enhance marketing efforts. Typical applications include using AI to generate marketing graphics or automate responses to common customer inquiries.

This saves time and resources, allowing businesses to focus on core activities.

2. ENHANCE EXISTING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Once SMEs are more comfortable with practical entry-level uses of

generative AI, they can begin to consider ways that AI tools can enhance existing business processes. For example, many SMEs have vast amounts of internal documentation that is often underutilised. It exists but is not used – often because information cannot be located easily.

Integrating custom AI chatbots can transform static documents into interactive resources. It means SMEs can create chatbots to answer employee questions – all based on existing documentation.

3. CUSTOMISE AI SOLUTIONS TO AUTOMATE

The third tier involves more advanced AI applications. This might be for complex operations, with many moving parts, such as resource allocation or process automation. AI-driven resource management tools can optimise how businesses allocate personnel, equipment and budgets. Tools can

be trained to make decisions in any way the SME needs.

By analysing data and making real-time adjustments, these tools reduce costs and improve efficiency. For example, AI can predict demand fluctuations and adjust resource allocation accordingly, ensuring that SMEs remain agile and responsive to market changes.

In summary, AI can seem daunting. It can come with a lot of technical jargon. It may not seem immediately accessible. However, there are ways to step onboard. And it will lead to significant productivity for SMEs. I’d certainly not agree with the 2% of BCC survey respondents who think AI will increase workload. And they risk being left beyond competitors who do make the change.

NEW MEMBERS

In September the Chamber welcomed 23 new members:

• Theodore Business Fixers

• Global

• My Travel Guys

• Compamigos

• East Midlands Cyber

Security Cluster

• CEM Solutions (UK)

• Joanna Moore Consultancy

• TEC Partnership

• Adsmart Sky

• KC Creative

• Sallara Marketing

• The Island Quarter

• Cosy Garden Rooms

• ABIROSAE

• Mark Dunn Photography

• Derma-Vent

• John Deere Limited

• Peri Elmokadem Art Studio

• Sudbury Gasworks

Restoration Trust

• CDS Global Limited

• Fuel Learning

• Thomas Foster

• Chase the Ace Marketing

Time to make a meal of it

Businesses are being urged to support Derby County Community Trust’s free meals programme, which helps hundreds of people across the city.

The trust has been providing free hot meals at Harrison’s Hub to people facing hardship in Derby since November 2022. This year demand has been so high that the meals are being served up all year round for the first time.

The project sees Derby County Football Club chefs

prepare hot meals which are sponsored by local businesses, and which often send in a team of volunteers to serve them.

The trust provides around 50 meals a week for groups including Ukrainian refugees, families struggling with mounting bills and people having problems with drug and alcohol use.

To support Derby County Community Trust’s meals, email Pete Collins at pete.collins@dcct.co.uk

Team scoops award for educational AI project

Leicester-based Tintisha Technologies has released two AI products for use in education and training – named MarkIT and First Draft.

The team said the BCS (The British Computer Society) was so impressed by MarkIT it has incorporated a version into its Ethical Build of AI course, which went on to be named best formative assessment project at the e-Assessment Awards at the Hilton Hotel in London.

Tintisha managing director Ian Pritchard said: “I’m absolutely delighted that the work of our team and BCS has been recognised by this award. We hope our system will make a real difference to the life chances of learners, especially apprentices who need to develop their English writing skills.”

Students given a trip into aerospace

ITP Aero UK opened its doors for students from five local schools to learn about manufacturing and engineering in aerospace.

The event was hosted at ITP Aero’s biggest UK site in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, as part of Make UK’s National Manufacturing Day 2024.

Students enjoyed a packed day of activities organised to inspire the next generation of manufacturers and engineers.

ITP Aero is a specialist in aerospace propulsion and 24 students from four local schools and colleges took a tour of the to learn about the products made there and the processes used to make them. They also had the chance to speak to team

members about their careers, and find out more about ways to break into the sector.

As part of the day, the business also hosted the Midlands Aerospace Alliance and their defence roadshow, allowing visitors to get an even greater understanding of the industry. Ian Williamson, managing director of ITP Aero UK, said: “Together at ITP Aero, we find better ways to power flight and keep its magic alive. As a growing company, we are continuously looking to the future and seeking people who can help us to create world-class products.”

For more on National Manufacturing Day, turn to pages 58-59.

The trophy for best formative assessment project at the e-Assessment Awards

Students on a tour of ITP Aero

Claire Hollingshurst, Rob Marchewka and Hannah Greenfield from science firm Lubrizol help the free meals scheme

The future will be data driven… ...are you ready?

By Simon Langdown (pictured), co-founder of Essenkay

In an increasingly competitive landscape, businesses across all industries must ensure their technology systems support growth and efficiency. To help, Simon Langdown, ERP implementation specialist at Essenkay, explains how to get the most out of cloud systems.

MOVING FROM LEGACY SYSTEMS TO THE CLOUD

Legacy systems prevent businesses from being able to accurately aggregate and analyse data from different departments, which can slow progression. Modern cloud solutions, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, offer a centralised database with customisable data models and access requirements to enhance visibility. With a cloud-based system, businesses can also avoid maintaining expensive on-site legacy systems. In this way, the short-term implementation costs from cloud systems can be offset in the longer term as the responsibility for system upkeep, security, and troubleshooting is shifted to the service provider.

In addition, upgrading legacy systems to cloudbased software can strengthen a business’s cybersecurity policies and maintain data security. Legacy systems are often incapable of supporting

MAXIMISING EFFICIENCY IN MICROSOFT DYNAMICS 365 SYSTEMS

Microsoft Dynamics 365 systems are designed on a subscription basis, making it simple for businesses to add new features depending on business needs. Users can stay within their budget by carefully assessing the most appropriate tools for their business.

With Dynamics 365, businesses can be flexible on their overall software usage, as services can be scaled up or down on demand. For example, a manufacturing business can test out the inventory management features of Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management and the automated cashflow forecasts from Dynamics 365 Finance before determining which is most beneficial for overall ROI.

present data protection laws, such as GDPR, and could leave businesses vulnerable to data leaks and loss of customer satisfaction. Cloud systems enhance GDPR compliance by providing secure data storage and automated privacy management.

BENEFITS OF CLOUD-BASED ERP SYSTEMS

Cloud-based ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems offer real-time access to business data from anywhere, anytime, enabling stakeholders to stay informed and teams to collaborate more efficiently. This particularly benefits organisations with remote or distributed teams, fostering greater collaboration and productivity.

Businesses can also benefit from enhanced efficiency as decision-makers can quickly access key insights, for example, budget utilisation, resource allocation or project timelines to identify any potential roadblocks ahead of time.

Cloud-based ERP systems can also significantly enhance supply chain management. Potential disruptions can be identified and managed more quickly as ERP systems give businesses greater visibility across inventory levels, shipments and third-party supplier updates. Businesses across the supply chain can then benefit from improved risk management and streamlined operations.

Another way to maximise efficiency is to take advantage of the automation features across the Microsoft Dynamics 365 suite. By using the software to support analysis and process management, businesses can free up employee time to concentrate on high-value, strategic tasks that drive profitability and growth.

Mitigate long-term risk from inaction with Essenkay’s bespoke ERP implementation solutions: essenkay.co.uk

Mitchell Lakin and Tom Starkey

UNIVERSITY GRADUATES JOIN COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Derby-based PR and communications specialist Nielsen McAllister has appointed University of Derby graduates Mitchell Lakin and Tom Starkey as account executives to support its client base and strengthening its bonds with its local university.

After graduating with an MA in publishing and completing his previous role at Car Charged UK, Mitchell knows the city and has knowledge of curating business-to-business content.

While studying for his degree in creative writing and publishing, Tom worked for the university’s GDPR department, issuing professional, legal responses.

Mitchell said: “I was amazed by the worldwide client list of Nielsen McAllister. I had no idea a comms specialist of this range was based in my local city. Each client has new learning to offer and I’m already applying and improving the skills from my degrees.”

CYBER SECURITY BUSINESS ADDS A THIRD DIRECTOR

Cyber security specialist Rob Kneller has become the third director of the East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster.

He joins Dr Ismini Vasileiou and David Nicholls in leading the community interest company, which supports regional economic growth by helping organisations protect their digital assets from cyber threats.

Rob has spent more than 15 years in the cyber security industry and is currently the director of KIT365 Ltd, a

cyber security managed service provider and consultants. He is experienced in assessing organisations for Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certification and is also a Cyber Scheme team member (CSTM), Cyber Essentials Plus lead assessor, and NCSC-approved cyber advisor.

He said: “Getting involved with EMCSC is a great way to raise awareness of cyber security across the East Midlands and the UK.”

EXPERT TO OFFER NEW HR SERVICE

Browne Jacobson has started providing HR services to health and social care clients after taking on a new team member.

Laura Chinyere-Ezeh has joined the Nottingham-based law firm as an HR consultant in health and social care to lead the new offering for residential care homes, nursing homes, domiciliary care providers and hospices.

Laura has more than a decade of experience as an HR generalist, with particular expertise in CQC-regulated environments. She was previously an HR business partner at Ramsay Healthcare, and part of senior leadership teams for three neurological rehabilitation centres’ clinical support functions.

Business growth consultancy Champions (UK) plc has strengthened its creative and content team with seven appointments.

The family-led company – which incorporates business growth, after-dinner speaking, music and entertainment, celebrity talent and events – was set up in 2003 and employs almost 100 staff. It is headquartered at Costock on the Leicestershire/ Nottinghamshire border.

The business, which has national and international clients, has expanded its team with the following hires:

Champions managing director Matthew Hayes said: “We’re delighted to be adding to the talent in our creative team to help manage the increasing output for our clients. I am sure they will all prove to be real assets for the company and welcome them into the Champs team. I look forward to working with them.”

graphic designer Wayne Rees; content executive Sophie Turrill; PR executive Mark Lawrence; creative media executive Coby Allen; marketing executive Oliver Hunter; new strategy executive Ryan Jhaj; and digital marketing executive Taylor Morley.

East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster director Rob Kneller

New Champions starters (L-R): Oliver Hunter, Coby Allen, Mark Lawrence, Sophie Turrill, Wayne Rees, Ryan Jhaj, Taylor Morley

Laura Chinyere-Ezeh

NELSONS RECRUITS QUARTET OF CORPORATE LAWYERS

An experienced team of four corporate lawyers have joined East Midlands law firm Nelsons.

Gavin White and Rachel Bennett, both partners, have joined Nelsons alongside senior associate Hannah Jones and legal director Peter Abel. They have all relocated from Knights.

With more than two decades’ experience Gavin has advised on all aspects of corporate finance work including high value mergers and acquisitions, management buyouts, joint ventures, corporate restructuring, venture capital investments, banking and finance and insolvency related transactions.

Gavin started his career at the independent Nottingham firm Eking Manning, where he stayed until

LAW FIRM EXPANDS HEALTHCARE TEAM

Shakespeare Martineau has bolstered its healthcare offering by bringing in a team of six experienced legal professionals.

The three new partners, two associates and a solicitor have joined the firm from Knights and specialise in corporate transactions in various healthcare sectors – bringing a collective 59 years’ experience to the firm.

Leading the team are partners Jonathan Tyson and Gemma Tyson, who have experience in handling transactions in areas including dental, pharmacy, opticians, children’s nurseries and veterinary practices. They will be supported by partner Katie Taken, associates Jonathan Hill and Louise McDonald, and solicitor Stena Rham.

its merger with Geldards. He then spent six years with Gateley, before becoming a partner at Fraser Brown.

Rachel has 20 years’ experience supporting clients across the East Midlands and nationally with large and complex transactions. Her expertise includes mergers and acquisitions, disposals, private equity investments and group reorganisations, dealing with different sized businesses across a range of sectors.

She spent almost eight years with Geldards in Derby, before moving to Gateley, Flint Bishop and then Knights.

Peter and Hannah also bring around 10 years’ legal experience each, both having worked at Fraser Brown and joining Knights as part of the acquisition in 2020.

Gemma said: “Shakespeare Martineau’s healthcare team is already very successful and highly regarded, and we believe that together, we will become greater than the sum of our parts.”

SOLICITOR NAMED SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Geldards has strengthened its employment team with the appointment of senior associate Sue Jennings (pictured) in the Derby office.

Sue joins from the University of Derby where she headed up Derby Law School for the previous seven years and lectured in employment law.

She has spent the past two decades combining practice as a solicitor specialising in employment law and dispute resolution with academic leadership and training roles. Her expertise lies in providing “clear, strategic and solution-focused advice with experience across both the private and public sector”.

In addition to her legal role, Sue holds the civic post of Under Sheriff of Derbyshire, providing advice to the Office of the High Sheriff of Derbyshire on the protocols of the role, particularly on matters such as the nominations, parliamentary elections and ceremonial matters.

Sue said: “This new chapter is an exciting opportunity for professional growth, and I am eager to bring my experience and passion to this dynamic environment."

STUDENT BOOSTS ELECTRICS FIRM

CJ Timms Electrical recently welcomed Callum Lee, a 19-year-old student from Millau, France, who successfully completed a twomonth work placement with the company.

Callum, who is studying international marketing at Louise Michel School in Narbonne, required real-life work experience abroad to validate his first year on the course. During his placement, Callum developed a business project proposal for launching an e-commerce website, aiming to provide the company with a new source of revenue and to expand its online presence.

He said: “I love CJ Timms for their friendly and professional way of working. They are not as demanding as a big company. By

being a small team, everybody supports each other without pressure. It’s a great company to work in; while working a lot, they still make time to talk, understand, and explain any problems.”

Despite not having a background in electrical work, Callum gained a considerable understanding thanks to managing director Roger Timms’ guidance.

Roger said: “Having Callum at CJ Timms for two months was a pleasure. He fit straight into our team and showed interest and understanding of our offerings. During his time with us, we gained insights into international business and e-commerce possibilities we wouldn’t have considered.”

L-R: Stena Rham, Louise McDonald, Jonathan Tyson, Katie Taken, Joseph Soul, Jonathan Hill, Gemma Tyson and Jordan Glackin

L-R: Peter Abel, Hannah Jones, Rachel Bennett and Gavin White

Callum Lee and Roger Timms

Energymust also be about

people power

Dominika Walker, community engagement regional lead at Tomato Energy talks to Tim Smith about why energy is on everyone’s mind and how building communities is at the centre of the company’s approach.

Solar panels are becoming more and more efficient

Whether down to the recent Ofgem Price Cap increase, the cost of doing business crisis or reaching sustainability targets, there’s no doubt energy has become a hot topic. Tomato Energy’s community engagement regional lead

Dominika Walker explains why.

“If we look back at the last few years, technological advancement in energy has been incredibly prominent. We've seen remarkable progress in renewable energy generation, especially when it comes to solar and battery storage. If we look at the efficiency of solar panels, for example, they’ve improved dramatically with modern panels these days converting over 22% of sunlight into electricity. That’s compared to just under 15% a decade ago. This makes renewable energy more valuable and cost effective than ever before. In addition, there’s increased education.

“People are increasingly concerned about climate change and looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. The commitment to reach zero emissions by 2050 puts renewable energy at the forefront of public discourse.

Dominika Walker says there has been ‘remarkable’ progress in the generation of renewable energy in recent years

“At Tomato Energy, our aim is to make it easier for everyday consumers to adopt renewable energy solutions. With our no upfront cost model for solar panels and battery storage installations, a significant barrier to entry for many households is removed.

“Economic pressures have made energy a hot topic too. The rising cost of living, coupled with volatile energy prices have made people more conscious of their energy consumption and bills. The energy price cap increase during the energy crisis saw average household bills rise 54%. That prompted many to seek alternative energy solutions.

‘From

day one

we’ve been laser-focused

on developing

cutting edge technologies that set us apart’

“Energy security concern plays a big role with political events and the conflict in Ukraine, for example. That’s highlighted the importance of energy independence, the whole infrastructure and energy generation in-house within the UK. That independence and diversification of energy sources has become incredibly important what we’re seeing today in the discourse around energy.”

Tomato Energy has quickly become well established, and its successful journey is rooted in placing itself in the heart of communities. Dominika says the company’s rapid growth can be largely attributed to its commitment to technology and commitment to being at the heart of community:

“Being community and purpose-led is something we pride ourselves on. Our journey began in 2017 with a group of energy experts,

techies and innovators coming together with a shared vision to revolutionise the UK energy sector by making renewable energy more accessible and affordable for everyone. We recognised that while many people wanted to embrace cleaner energy, the high upfront cost and complexity of all the existing solutions at that time were significant barriers.

“From day one we’ve been laser-focused on developing cutting-edge technologies that set us apart. Our flagship innovation is our smart energy management system, which we've been refining since our inception. The system allows for real time optimisation of energy use. There’s also storage and distribution which make

renewable energy more efficient and cost effective for our customers. Last year we launched Tomatopia. It’s about including people in the whole energy system. We launched Tomatopia across 10 UK locations. Most were in the midlands and some in the south. As part of Tomatopia, we offer solar panel and battery storage installations with no upfront costs to residents, allowing households to sustainably power their homes for a fixed, monthly fee.

The community-centred focus in Tomato Energy’s business strategy is designed to cut costs and carbon emissions while bringing people together. The approach is based on a sense of ‘collective impact’ as Dominika explains:

“We believe if we foster a sense of shared responsibility and collective action, we can create a more sustainable, resilient and costeffective energy system and we get this collective impact. When a community comes together – just think of the Covid times, for example – nothing is stronger. When it comes to energy, the impact could be far greater than individual action. We can help address energy issues. For example, if you imagine a local neighbourhood with a wide-scale solar initiative, having that can significantly reduce their community’s carbon footprint and reliance on the National Grid and bring down their costs.

“Shared resources help drive the cost down for individuals with community-based energy solutions. This is our Tomatopia model. People can share their energy storage and generation, while being empowered to take a renewable approach. There’s a golden thread in that it helps change behaviour. Community initiatives can

Dominika says Tomato Energy prides itself on being community and purpose-led

Tomato Energy is aiming to make renewable energy more affordable for all

drive roll-out of renewable energy. They change behaviour more effectively than individual interventions. People are part of a group that’s coming together. When people see their neighbours adopting sustainable practices, they’re more likely to follow suit themselves. Energy projects can be implemented in local communities so when it comes to a grid outage, a community can have its own energy generation and storage – so, for them, power continues and they continue their normal life.

Tomato Energy’s flagship initiative Tomatopia is aimed at creating self-sustaining communities. Dominika explains how it works:

“We go into local communities, install solar panels and battery storage, with systems across entire neighbourhoods. That’s at no upfront cost to consumers. We're creating a local energy grid for residents and businesses – if there’s a roof, we can bring our infrastructure in. Every user can generate, store and share energy within the community. That brings resilience into local communities. Reduction in reliance on the National Grid lowers prices because ultimately, you're relying on solar power and storage and sharing within those communities.

“We look at technologies like EV integration and install our own EV charging points. That innovation is integrated into the home energy system. It can charge vehicles during off-peak times and the smart technology and software manages those times for people. Our commitment is on personalisation, community engagement and sustainability.”

Tomato Energy believes financial success and being sustainable are not mutually exclusive and

As part of its Tomatopia initiative the company offers solar panel installation with no upfront costs

marrying the two has played a big part in the company’s growth.

“Our commitment to sustainability has been a key driver of our financial success and we’ve done it right from the start,” Dominka says.

“With our Tomatopia initiative, we not only help communities become more sustainable, but create a new revenue stream. Any stakeholders are part of this through the installation and management of local energy grids.

‘We’ve heavily invested in smart tech and automation to streamline all our operations’

“Our intensified tariffs provide this dynamic pricing model. We call them intensified tariffs because they allow customers to make informed decisions about their energy use and directly reflect the real time carbon intensity of the grid. That encourages use when renewable generation is high. This helps balance the grid, reduces carbon emissions and helps us helps us purchase energy more efficiently. That benefits both our bottom line and the environment and as we’re visionaries, long term too.

“Installations require significant investment initially, but we see that as a longer-term investment in sustainability and customer loyalty. There’s recurring revenue from energy sharing and storage, while the management fees ensure financial sustainability. We make our operations efficient. We’ve heavily invested in smart tech and automation to streamline all our operations. That reduces cost, minimises waste and improves our service quality. Partnerships and the power of relationships with key stakeholders and the local community are important.

Tomato Energy’s offices reflect their environmental approach to energy

“We are forming strategic partnerships with stakeholders in the renewable energy sector and technology providers as well as local governments, social housing associations, community champions and universities. These partnerships will allow us to scale our sustainable initiatives more rapidly and can help lead solar panel roll-out at scale and efficiently, bringing competitive prices. Being responsible, we have strong employee engagement.

‘Our business model has been built around what customers want and can afford’

“As we’re committed to sustainability, we’re a major draw for top talent when we recruit, whether it’s here in the East Midlands or up in Scotland, we attract top talent that wants to be part of making change in our communities. We’ve built a highly skilled and motivated team without high recruitment and retention costs.”

Tomato Energy’s community-focused approach can have wider economic benefits by creating jobs, while reducing costs.

Dominika says: “We train people, include them as part of the project and can guarantee them jobs at the end. On top of job creation, there’s the reduction in energy costs and people can generate revenue from excess energy that can be sold back to the grid. It’s simple and I'm part of our division that focuses on that too, as part of the community engagement team.

“We connect through building partnerships with regional stakeholders, community champions, going to local events and workshops, as well as organising our own events. We do that regularly to educate people about alternative renewable energy sources and solutions. We’re inclusive so everyone can be part of it. We value community energy assessments, so when we're looking at bigger groups, particularly when it comes to retrofit projects or the Tomatopia movement, we'll look at that community on a tailored individual basis, so we understand what someone’s challenge is, how we can help, how we can go that extra mile.

“Working with local communities means we can advise them on any specific grants available or schemes available to them. We're reducing costs through collective energy generation and storage on one hand, but also giving friendly

advice. By recognising that every community is unique, it enables us to adapt to them, be transparent and give good advice. We take feedback from local people and constantly improve our offering. By activating Tomato Energy within communities in these ways, we’re not only changing how energy is consumed and produced, but fostering a community-centric approach to sustainability.

“We ultimately create an engaged, informed community that's actively participating in the transition to a more sustainable energy future.”

With plenty of choice in the energy market for consumers, Tomato Energy prides itself not only on its community-led approach; reduced bills, innovation, sustainability, embracing technology and an understanding its customers are at the core of the company, as Dominika explains:

“Our business model has been built around what customers want and can afford. Through extensive market research and customer feedback, we know people are looking for affordable and accessible ways to lower their bills and reduce their impact on the grid and the environment. We’re a purpose-led company, on a

mission to make renewable energy accessible to everyone, with no upfront cost, with solar panels and battery storage installations. Our commitment is in being a 100% renewable energy sourcing company. Our investment in local renewable projects here in the East Midlands demonstrates that dedication to a greener future.”

The insight Tomato Energy has into the expectations of customers from extensive research and customer feedback has enabled the company

Tomato Energy headlining this year’s Robin Hood Festival in Sherwood Forest. Tomato’s community engagement team with The Knights of Nottingham. Tomato’s team from left to right: Dominika Walker, regional engagement lead; Natea Lee; Mac Milan Martin and Simmy Sangha

Tomato supporting this year’s Darley Weekender in Derby

Visitors to Darley Weekender had the opportunity to speak to the community engagement team about Tomatopia and smart tariffs

Tomato Energy test drove a Tesla 3 at this year’s EV Festival in Lutterworth.

From left: Jashan Singh, Ankush Aggarwal and Dominika Walker,

to tailor its support to what people want.

“Businesses want to be able to speak directly to a knowledgeable representative who understands their needs, with simple, direct communication,” Dominika explains. “That’s why we've implemented a dedicated business support team. We’ve got account managers assigned to individual companies. Fast response times are important. Waiting days for a response isn't acceptable so we aim to respond within a few hours, during business hours. We personalise service because every business is unique, their energy needs are, as are our personalised energy audits and energy plans.

‘People should definitely consider installing a smart meter, getting real time data for energy usage’

“Transparency is another one – customers appreciate clear, upfront information about pricing, terms and any potential changes. There are monthly reports and breakdowns when it comes to usage and pricing. Consumption and forecasting expense is important as business needs change quickly. Offering proactive support is really important too.

“As part of the expertise we offer in our inhouse Root to Zero consultancy, we partner with businesses where we can advise on energy efficiencies and sustainability.

“Our energy consultants provide workshops and audits on business energy consumption and how we can keep costs down, saving people on their bills.”

The cost of energy has been a significant challenge to businesses in recent years. Dominika says understanding the drivers is important.

“Energy is a global commodity, and prices are heavily influenced by worldwide supply and demand. Then you've got geopolitical tension. Conflicts in energy production regions can significantly impact prices. The cost of fuel used in power generation, like natural gas, coal and oil all impact energy prices. In the UK, natural gas prices have a particularly strong influence on electricity costs.

“Then there’s the cost of building and maintaining energy infrastructure. Power plants and transmission lines are factored into the price. Weather conditions have an impact on demand and supply too, while government policies and

regulations play a part in the cost.

Environmental regulations, carbon pricing and subsidies for certain types of energy all have influence. Reducing emissions for Net Zero will also drive investment in renewables.

In October, Ofgem increased the Energy Price Cap at a time when businesses were already citing high energy costs as one of their biggest concerns. Dominka explains how to mitigate the impact: “With the increase last month, it’s more important than ever for businesses and residents to take proactive steps to manage their energy costs.

“You need analysis of your own consumption and potential inefficiencies. We have audits that we do as part of Root to Zero. Simple steps like switching to energy efficient equipment, replacing old equipment with modern alternatives with things like LED lighting, energy efficient HVAC systems and smart thermostats can really help.

“You can optimise energy usage patterns, which is about understanding when and how people are using energy. There are tariffs available that are designed to suit people’s lifestyle and we pride ourselves on that.

Investing in renewable energy solutions like solar panels can deliver long term savings over time and people should definitely consider installing a smart meter, getting real time data for energy usage. That will help people decide on energy solutions that keep prices down and they’ll only pay for what they use. Doing research into what works for you, your consumption and your needs

is the best thing. Smart meters make a significant difference, especially when coupled with other innovative technologies and proper usage. We've had some residents reporting up to 10% reduction in the energy bills by just simply being able to see their consumption in real time and adjusting their habits. When you have access to the data you can be accurately billed. So smart meters eliminate estimated bills. That ensures customers only pay for the energy they actually use.

“That can be particularly beneficial for businesses with fluctuating energy needs, such as seasonal businesses.

“Then you’ve got time of use tariffs, enabling consumers to save money by using energy during off-peak hours. Tomato Energy has a system called Smartify, which takes advantage of that by automatically shifting non-essential energy used to cheaper periods.

“There are many benefits of ensuring we’re not overloading the grids too much because energy is used at the right time.”

Navigating cost challenges, meeting sustainability targets and improving efficiency in usage are surely all high up on the list of priorities at most businesses. Tomato Energy’s approach brings these together.

“We can help people reduce carbon emissions and their monthly bill costs,” Dominika explains. “There’s a cycle where our sustainable practices can drive customer acquisition and retention and help us drive operational efficiencies, helping us become sustainable at the same time.”

Dominika says its crucial for businesses to audit their energy consumption to find out what best suits their needs

Making your data work for you

At Pattrn, we make business data work for you, without the confusion. We understand that as an SME, your time is precious, and complex reports just don’t cut it. That’s why we’ve created a platform that brings all your data – from sales to marketing to accounting –into one place. Pattrn shows you exactly what’s working in your business, so you can make better decisions faster, without needing to be a data expert.

Unlike other platforms built for big corporations, Pattrn is designed specifically for SMEs, giving you the same powerful insights but in a way that’s simple, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Whether you want to optimise your marketing, track your cash flow, or know your next best move, Pattrn helps you see the whole picture so you can focus on growing your business.

We’re on a mission to fight back against the things that hold small businesses back:

1. DATA CHAOS

We get it—your data is scattered across different platforms, and pulling it together feels like a never-ending battle. We believe that no one should waste hours piecing together reports or feel lost in the numbers. With Pattrn, we bring order to the chaos by putting all your data in one clear, easy-to-use dashboard.

2. COMPLEX JARGON

Business tools shouldn’t require a translator. We’re not here to confuse you with buzzwords or technical speak. Our goal is to simplify the complex, so you know exactly what’s happening in your business without needing to be a data scientist.

3. REACTIVE DECISIONS

Waiting until the end of the month to see how your business is doing is a thing of the past. We’re here to help you make decisions in real

time, so you can stop reacting and start leading with confidence. At Pattrn, we’re all about moving forward – no more looking in the rearview mirror.

If you’re ready to take control of your data so you can finally make smarter decisions, optimise your marketing, and grow your business without the guesswork, the Pattrn Beta Program is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. With Pattrn, you'll turn data chaos into clear, actionable insights that show you what’s working and where to focus, without the headache of trying to figure it all out on your own.

Here’s what you get as part of our exclusive Beta:

ALL YOUR DATA IN ONE PLACE

Easily connect your CRM, marketing, and accounting tools for a full 360-degree view of your business.

REAL-TIME REPORTS

Get up-to-date insights without having to wait for monthly reports.

BUSINESS INSIGHTS MADE SIMPLE

Know what’s working and what’s not with easyto-read, actionable insights.

Sign up now to be part of the Pattrn Beta –spaces are limited, and once we hit capacity, the doors will close!

Don’t miss your chance to be one of the first to experience a platform designed to help SMEs like yours grow.

DERBY UNIVERSITY HAS GROWTH PLANS

The University of Derby has appointed Prof Keith McLay (pictured) as its deputy vicechancellor to help drive forward the university’s growth plans.

Prof McLay has held several senior management roles at the university.

Since 2021, he has been a driving force for the learning and teaching agenda at Derby, helping it secure gold in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) run by the Office for Students.

Prior to that, he was pro vicechancellor dean of arts, humanities, and education for three years. He is also chair of the Derby Book Festival and lead on the university’s civic agreement.

He said: “It’s a privilege and honour to be appointed deputy vice-chancellor of the university.

“I’m greatly looking forward to continuing working with colleagues across the institution to deliver excellence and success for our students and our community, both within the university and beyond.”

SHOP OPENS WORLD FIRST PIE MUSEUM

Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe has re-opened its doors in Melton Mowbray with the addition of the world’s first pork pie museum.

The grade II listed property is the oldest and only remaining pork pie bakery and shop in Melton, and the home of the traditional hand-raised Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.

John Dickinson started selling pork pies from the shop in 1851 using his grandmother Mary Dickinson’s original recipe from the 1790s.

The reopening of the refurbished store, café and museum was celebrated in a grand opening event attended by the Mayor of Melton Mowbray and Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire.

The changes have seen more shop space added so that more in-house and locally sourced produce to be stocked, alongside core ranges of pies, cheeses and condiments.

One of the biggest accountants and business advisers in the Midlands has raised £7,000 for charitable causes across Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, London and Nottinghamshire.

Members of the team at Duncan & Toplis, as well as family and friends, completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge to fundraise for Duncan & Toplis Foundation – which provides funding to local charities.

Participants covered 25 miles with an ascent of more than 1,500m in under 12 hours.

Foundation trustee and Duncan & Toplis director Rachel Barrett, who took part in the challenge, said: “I knew this was going to be a huge challenge but walking with so many colleagues supporting and encouraging each other, made for an enjoyable experience.

“We’re so proud of how much money we raised, and knowing it will make a difference to so many local causes made it even more special and worthwhile – it was a truly memorable day.”

‘Fundraisers are

an important part of The Duncan & Toplis Foundation’s income, which is why we decided to organise this challenge’

The foundation was established in 2022 and supports good causes involved in things such as community spaces, food and shelter, art and creativity, palliative care and work with young people.

Recent awards have been made to Beaumond House Hospice Care, Boston Women’s Aid, Lindsey Rural Players, Our Hall Louth, Skegness Day Centre, Spalding Hockey Club and The Boston Preservation Trust. Charities that fit the criteria, and are located within 20 miles of the group’s locations, are encouraged to apply for funding.

Sally-Anne Hurn, sustainability champion at Duncan & Toplis, said: “We recognise the importance of coming together as a community to support meaningful causes and make a positive impact. Fundraisers are an important part of The Duncan & Toplis Foundation’s income, which is why we decided to organise this challenge.

“It wasn’t just about conquering mountains – it was also about embracing the spirit of teamwork to support our communities.”

College investing to expand Charity challenge sees accountants scale peaks

Loughborough College is investing more than £36m in its facilities and three major buildings which are set to open in the next academic year.

The new builds include the East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT), a new sports facility and a Digital Skills Hub, which will help equip students with cutting-edge skills.

The EMIoT, is part of the wider national Institute of Technology initiative, with a regional partnership in the East Midlands made up of Loughborough College, Loughborough University, Derby College and the University of Derby.

It is aimed at addressing the UK’s shortage of digital, engineering and advanced manufacturing skills, and its programs will prepare apprentices and undergraduates for careers in high-tech sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity.

Construction firm Lindum began work on the £6.5m development in January with a projected completion date of March 2025.

Construction is also underway on a new sports facility, which will provide modern training spaces and classrooms and new staff areas, following a £9.91m investment from the Department for Education.

In addition to the IoT and new sports facility, the college is also building a new Digital Skills Hub, supported by funding from the Loughborough Town Deal. It will focus on bridging the digital divide by boosting the skills of students and local businesses with access to the latest digital technologies.

Three new buildings will open in the next academic year

Duncan & Toplis team members during their Three Peaks challenge

Freeths named top law firm at industry awards

Freeths has won the coveted title of law firm of the year at this year’s Legal Business Awards.

Legal Business is the team behind the Legal 500 listing and the 27th annual awards celebrated the very best of the legal profession.

As one of the fastest growing firms in the UK, Freeths’ 2024 award success followed consistent double-digit annual revenue growth since 2015. It was recognised by judges for its outstanding organic expansion with six of the firm’s 13 offices achieving annual revenues of more than £10m.

Karl Jansen, national managing partner of Freeths, said: “As a firm, we’re incredibly honoured and proud of this prestigious recognition which certainly reflects the hard work and sheer dedication demonstrated by colleagues across our business over a number of years and not just the last 12 months.

“It’s an incredible achievement for Freeths and truly humbling to be named law firm of the year, and I would like to personally extend a huge thank you to all of our colleagues, and also for the support we’ve received from our clients.”

The win is a culmination of a year of achievements for the firm,

notably the launch of a Glasgow office last year, its first office outside of England.

In January, the work of national head of dispute resolution James Hartley was brought to light in a high-profile ITV documentary about the Post Office scandal.

New start-up aims to use nuclear material in space

Space Park Leicester has launched a start-up to develop technology which could one day be used to harness the power of nuclear material for missions into space.

Perpetual Atomics has been launched to commercialise the expertise in space nuclear power developed over more than 20 years at the University of Leicester – which set up the £100m Space Park.

Prof Richard Ambrosi, executive director of Space Park Leicester, said there had been exciting developments in space nuclear power in recent years.

He said: “We are entering a new chapter in our journey, one that will see us harness the potential of nuclear technology to power deep space exploration and pioneer new frontiers, and are ready to bring others with us on that journey. The use of nuclear power in space is not just for the future – it’s happening now.”

The technology at the heart of the new venture has the potential to enable longer, more ambitious missions beyond Earth’s orbit in the harsh environment of deep space.

The Space Nuclear Power group at the University of Leicester has spent two decades developing radioisotope power systems that use heat generated from the decay of radioisotopes to heat spacecraft or be converted to electricity to power key subsystems.

James and the team have fought for years to get justice for more than 550 postmasters. They are now advising the hundreds of people whose criminal convictions are being overturned after they were prosecuted as a result of the Post Office’s flawed Horizon IT system.

Team-up will help DHL to meet green targets

DHL has signed a deal with global green tech company Envision Group to help it meet its sustainability targets.

The global delivery company, which has a major hub at East Midlands Airport, said the partnership covers four main areas: logistics, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), green energy, and the joint development of a new type of Net Zero industrial & logistic park.

The chemical and physical characteristics of SAF – which comes from sources such as cooking oil, plant oils, municipal waste, waste gases, and agricultural residues – are almost identical to conventional jet fuel and can be safely mixed with it without the need for aircraft engines to be adapted.

The Freeths team at the awards event

Interest rate cut likely to follow drop in inflation

The Chamber’s director of policy and insight believes an interest rate cut could follow recent news that the rate of inflation had fallen to 1.7%.

The latest figure, provided by the Office for National Statistics for the year to September, was lower than the predictions from many analysts and the lowest since 2021.

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “With the pressure businesses continually face to increase prices with the high cost of doing business, an easing in inflation with bring some comfort and, being below the 2% target set by the Bank of England, suggests an interest rate cut is on the horizon when they meet next month.

‘Inflation was cited as the second biggest concern to businesses in the East Midlands after corporate taxation’

“Inflation was cited as the second biggest concern to businesses in the East Midlands after corporate taxation in our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (see right) With high energy costs, this lower-thanexpected level of inflation could well be short-lived.

“It’s worthy of note that while nearly seven out of ten businesses in the East Midlands expected to be able to hold their prices over the next three months, the rest of respondents in the Quarterly Economic Survey felt they might need an increase in prices over the next three months.”

He said the Government now had to do everything it could to back UK business.

He said: “Business rates need reform, the VAT registration threshold needs to be looked at, we need a strengthened trade strategy which should include finance for export, while investment is needed in a number of areas like green growth to allow the East Midlands to thrive.” Richard also gave his reaction to new figures showing the economy grew by 0.2% in the three months to August.

The estimated ONS figures followed two consecutive months where there was no change in GDP.

SUMMARY OF EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER’S SIX KEY REQUESTS FOR THE GOVERNMENT:

1. Skills Investment and Apprenticeship Levy Flexibility

2. Support for the Planning Skills Fund

3. Investment in Transport and Infrastructure

4. Reform of Business Rates and VAT Registration Threshold

5. Strengthened Trade Strategy and Export Finance

6. Investment in Green Growth

He said: “While it’s encouraging to see GDP growth after two flatlined months, it’s early days.

“The stall we experienced in the figures published in summer really underlines that, while our Quarterly Economic Survey has shown a mixed picture in the East Midlands.

“On the plus side, six out ten respondents expected turnover to improve over the next year and half expected profitability to improve –a finding that’s lifted over the last four quarters, while businesses continue to hire staff. That said, on the flip side the data revealed a drop in investment into machinery and training.

“Business now needs to see action and delivery from the new government to ensure East Midlands businesses have the support they need to enable them to thrive and unlock barriers to growth.

“In their manifesto, we heard the government’s plan to reform business rates and planning with the building of 1.5 million homes in the UK. This now needs to translate to action.”

Businesses remain cautious on investment

Businesses in the East Midlands continue to project to make profit over the next year but are currently investing less in machinery and training, says a study into business experience in the region.

The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey is a key indicator of challenges and opportunities faced by businesses across multiple sectors, highlighting their concerns and the level of confidence they have for the months ahead.

Key takeaways from respondents in the Quarterly Economic Survey Q3, 2024:

• 2% growth in the workforce over the last three months

• 1/4 expect their workforce to increase over the next three months

• 7/10 had problems recruiting suitable staff over the last three months

• Half expect profitability to improve over the next year

• 7/10 expect to keep prices the same over the next three months

• UK Orders increased by 3%, UK Sales decreased by 5% in last quarter

The Chamber’s director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “A varied picture that I’d describe as ‘cautious optimism’ can be taken from this Quarterly Economic Survey where, on one hand it's great to be seeing lots of confidence from businesses that they expect to be profitable over the next year – half the respondents reported that – but, at the same time businesses are hesitant to spend, having pulled back on investment in machinery and training.

“While expectations of increasing profitability are an encouraging indicator, especially as the figure has risen slightly this quarter, turnover confidence fell slightly, suggesting there's concern from businesses over revenue prospects and market pressure. Seeing reduced investment in machinery, which has fallen by 13% and training investment down 5% suggests businesses are feeling a need to protect their cash flow at the moment, amid economic uncertainties.

“UK orders are up but, in contrast, sales within the UK are down 5%. A UK sales fall suggests a slight slowdown in domestic demand, likely due to caution among consumers facing the pressure of inflation, but it's comforting that a sense of optimism among domestic clients appears to be driving up UK orders, which are 3% higher this quarter.

“Overseas trading is proving a challenge where the survey shows a 10% drop, with factors like exchange rate fluctuation or geopolitical issues likely playing a part. To manage the difficulties there's a need for businesses to diversify their export strategies and adapt to changing global market conditions.

“On recruitment, the surveys findings reveal a brighter picture with businesses hiring. The East Midlands workforce grew 2% in the last quarter, but while a quarter of businesses said they expect to recruit staff in the next three months, seven out of ten said they’ve had problems getting the right staff. It’s one thing to intend to recruit, but another to get the right candidate.

“Within the context of the high cost of doing business and major political change, the mixed outlook we’ve seen in this Quarterly Economic Survey isn’t too surprising, with a trend toward reduced investment being consistent with the idea that businesses are conserving their cash flow.”

To view the full Quarterly Economic Survey for Q3, 2024 go to: tinyurl.com/45xa46f8

Richard Blackmore

Fully-funded energy audits, sustainability workshops and support on creating decarbonisation plans are all available as part of the Accelerator project. Dr Rose Deakin, an experienced lecturer with more than 15 years’ experience working in the field of sustainability, is also the facilitator of the Chamber’s Accelerator workshops ‘How to drive Carbon Reduction and Sustainability in your Business’. She and Dr Muhammad Mazhar are both sustainability and carbon management specialists at the Nottingham Business School, Nottingham Trent University. Here they explain how a business can make the first steps towards its sustainability and carbon reduction journey.

Why and how you can cut carbon use

In recent years, the term ‘decarbonisation’ has gained significant traction, especially in light of growing urgency to combat climate change. For SMEs in the UK, decarbonisation is not just a buzzword – it is a crucial component of future-proofing a business and ensuring sustainability in the long term.

WHAT IS DECARBONISATION?

According to the British Business Bank it is: “The removal or reduction of carbon emissions output into the atmosphere to reduce an organisation’s carbon footprint and impact on the climate. This is the process by which businesses can reach net zero through reducing, eliminating, and offsetting carbon emissions.”

Decarbonisation does not just consider CO2e emissions but also includes other greenhouse gases to give an overall value as Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO2e).

For SMEs, decarbonisation often involves assessing the current carbon footprint and calculating their baseline as the starting point to develop their goals, targets and strategy for carbon reduction. Strategies to reduce emissions could include reducing energy consumption, switching to renewable sources, optimising production lines, using energy-efficient equipment and eliminating waste.

The end goal is to develop a Decarbonisation Plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions for a sustainable business.

HOW TO IMPLEMENT A DECARBONISATION PLAN?

There are several reasons why it makes sense for a business to have a decarbonisation plan, not only to comply with regulations and in anticipation of future legislation but to meet the expectations of customers who are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on a business’s environmental credentials.

From a procurement point of view, many businesses are actively including Net Zero and Social Value as part of their weighting. The NHS and Tesco are two examples where suppliers are expected to provide their carbon footprint.

Enhanced reputation and brand loyalty, cost savings, improved efficiency, access to new business opportunities, together with increased employee satisfaction and attraction are notable benefits in adopting a decarbonisation plan.

BUT WHERE SHOULD YOU START IN IMPLEMENTING YOUR DECARBONISATION PLAN?

1. Assess your carbon footprint: The first step is to understand the current state of your carbon emissions, i.e. your carbon footprint. This involves conducting a thorough carbon emissions audit to identify sources of emissions within your business operations, from energy use to supply chain activities. This assessment is used to create your baseline footprint as per a specific year, against which all future carbon reduction targets will be measured.

2. Set clear and measurable goals: Once you have a clear understanding of your carbon footprint, set realistic and measurable targets for carbon emission reductions in your business. These targets should be aligned with broader industry standards and local, national or international commitments such as the UK's netzero by 2050 goal.

3. Develop and implement strategies: Identify specific actions or measures to achieve your decarbonisation goals such as switching to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, optimising logistics, adopting sustainable modes of travel or eliminating waste streams. Start with no and low-cost measures first and then explore measures which might involve cost. Developing a detailed decarbonisation plan that outlines these

strategies, timelines, and responsibilities is crucial to ensure the targets are met.

4. Engage stakeholders: Decarbonisation is not just a top-down process. Engage and educate your stakeholders such as employees, suppliers and customers in your decarbonisation initiatives. Collaborate with suppliers to ensure they align with your sustainability goals. There may be support available to you locally, nationally or internationally in the form of grants and business support programmes to ensure you can meet your decarbonisation targets.

5. Monitor and report progress: Regularly track your progress against your decarbonisation targets. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success and identify areas for improvement. Transparency is key, so consider publicly reporting your progress. This not only builds trust with stakeholders but helps to keep the business accountable. It can be beneficial to align your monitoring with your finances to track any cost-savings made and identify which strategies are more economically viable.

6. Continuously improve: Stay informed about new technologies, regulations and good practices in sustainability and decarbonisation. Continuously review and refine your decarbonisation plan to ensure it remains effective and aligned with the latest guidance and standards. Make use of peer networking and support for decarbonisation as it helps.

By developing and implementing a robust decarbonisation plan, SMEs can not only contribute to the global fight against climate change, but also reap numerous business benefits, from cost savings and risk management to improved reputation and market opportunities.

Turn to page 46 for more Accelerator news...

Dr Rose Deakin and Dr Muhammad Mazhar

Removing barriers to trade finance for SMEs

SMEs are the beating heart of the East Midlands economy. UKEF understands this, and the important role these businesses have in creating local jobs and supporting local communities.

Smaller businesses cannot always meet the requirements which commercial lenders set –however, support from UKEF can help them overcome these barriers to trade finance.

In the year to March 2024, UKEF supported 336 SMEs in realising their global ambitions, and it has a strategic target of increasing this

number to 1,000 by 2029.

Eighty percent of SMEs supported were based outside of London, demonstrating how UKEF is helping to deliver growth opportunities across the country.

UKEF has two export finance managers based in the East Midlands who can provide free and impartial guidance to businesses on their export finance needs. Export finance managers can provide information on the types of finance available, export insurance and payment methods and risk.

If cashflow constraints or payment risk issues are holding your business back, or you just wish to know more about UKEF please contact either:

Paul Tandy, Export Finance Manager Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire paul.tandy@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

Tel: 07500 047523

Or Mark Lynam, Export Finance Manager Leicestershire and Birmingham mark.lynam@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

Tel: 07768 558847

ACCELERATOR CASE STUDY: LUKE EVANS BAKERY, AMBER VALLEY

Established in 1804, Luke Evans Bakery is a family business that manufactures bread and confectionery for retail and wholesale. It employs 49 people, has an onsite bakery shop and runs a click-and-collect service six days a week.

Despite its growth being hampered by increased wage bills, ingredients, utilities and living costs, the business is committed to maximising manufacturing efficiencies and scaling up to introduce new products and lines, and to use sustainable packaging.

Through the Accelerator project, Chamber business adviser Peter Lawrence has been supporting managing director Helen Yates on strategy. He has also been signposting and connecting the business to other support services including the Made Smarter programme which has resulted in manufacturing process road mapping and recommendations for improved production and cost savings.

The opportunity for £20,000 grant funding is currently being explored to support the recommendation costs.

Support has also come in the form of the Chamber’s East Midlands Manufacturing Network. As a Network member, Helen regularly attends the Derby events and at one such meeting, was introduced to Devtank, specialists in test and measurement solutions. The business has since taken advantage of funded IOT (Internet of Things) monitors which Helen heard about as part of the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub presentation.

An Accelerator energy audit has identified cost and carbon footprint reductions, providing useful recommendations such as solar panels, a chiller upgrade, compressed air testing and

optimisation, individual machinery metering, portable heating reduction and improved heating controls.

IOT monitors will be fitted in the coming weeks and, together with the measures above, will support energy saving and reduce costs, helping the business to become greener.

Helen is also being supported by Peter with a decarbonisation grant application to help with funding to optimise savings.

She said: “Peter’s ability to provide constructive criticism has helped me ‘see the wood for the trees’ on many occasions. He has an excellent understanding of what funding and support options are available and has pointed me in the right direction for opportunities we have taken advantage of, which I wasn’t aware of, or previously considered.”

Turn to page 48 for more Accelerator news...

UPCOMING ACCELERATOR WORKSHOPS AND WEBINARS

Luke Evans Bakery managing director Helen Yates

Support to aid energy efficiency

Around 800 Nottinghamshire businesses have benefited from free support to improve their energy efficiency and growth, thanks to the Accelerator Project.

A total of 65% of businesses supported so far are based in urban areas with the remainder in rural areas.

Around 50 businesses have tapped into growth vouchers of up to £2,000 towards specialist training or consultancy advice and the same number have taken advantage of fully subsidised energy audits.

Of the grants so far awarded to participating businesses, it is anticipated that 73 jobs will be created or safeguarded as a result of this support.

‘Within two weeks of my time with Alex, my turnover was six months ahead of target’

Nottinghamshire county councillor and economic development lead Keith Girling said: “Small and medium sized businesses are at the heart of our local economy and so it’s great to hear how successful this scheme has been.

“Ultimately it is helping businesses save money by paying less on energy bills. As a county council we are always keen to help local businesses and their supply chain as much as we can by spending money locally.

“We also offer a free, independent advice for those businesses just starting up or expanding.

“To complement the Accelerator programme, our expert business advisers can be booked for a one-to-one chat plus we have local business surgeries happening around the county.”

Nottinghamshire businesses benefitting from Accelerator support so far include Renave Clinic, in Retford.

Facial aesthetics and skin treatments specialist Dr Bethany Rushworth sought support from the Accelerator project to help grow the reach of her non-surgical cosmetic and skin treatments business.

Dr Bethany said: “Chamber business adviser Alex Gardner helped me understand where the blockages were in the business. She gave us a bird's eye view and we saw an immediate upturn in business.

“Within two weeks of my time with Alex, my turnover was six months ahead of target and my new client uptake was more than 25% ahead of where we planned to be.

“This gave me the confidence to expand sooner than anticipated.”

The business has since taken on larger premises to enhance the client experience as well as a new member of staff to help Dr Bethany focus on more complex treatments.

Businesses interested in signing up for Nottinghamshire Accelerator can do so by selecting their local authority area and completing the Expression of Interest at: www.d2n2growthhub.co.uk/accelerator.

Turn to page 50 for more Accelerator news...

Dr Bethany Rushworth

SMEs make most of specialist workshops

SMEs have been learning first-hand about the energy efficiency measures being implemented at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Derby, thanks to an initiative between the global powerhouse and East Midlands Chamber.

Their energy reduction workshops, part of the Accelerator project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, provided a rare opportunity to experience a practical demonstration and shop floor observation with Toyota energy specialists.

‘SMEs gaining such valuable takeaways from Toyota’s practical observations and shopfloor demonstrations was exactly what we wanted’

Decarbonisation and how the company has applied sound energy costs management were high on the agenda. Businesses said Toyota’s step-by-step explanations about its improvements were helpful when it came to implementing their own energy-saving measures.

Penny Engineering managing director Robin Penny said: “To be able to see first-hand how a premier, worldwide manufacturer reduces its carbon footprint is very valuable for an SME. I can’t think of any work environments where this could not be applied.”

Midland Lead managing director Francoise Derksen said: “I operate a manufacturing plant and our energy reduction and sustainable manufacturing is an important focus.

“We have made lots of investments but we now need to look at behaviours and change our way of working.”

East Midlands Chamber deputy chief executive Diane Beresford said: “SMEs gaining such valuable takeaways from Toyota’s practical observations and shopfloor demonstrations was exactly what we wanted.

“Toyota Manufacturing UK has over 30 years of energy kaizen experience which has resulted in significant energy reductions, technological breakthroughs and all that means when it comes to improved competitiveness.

“Supporting SMEs in accessing this know-how means widening the impact of Toyota’s efforts and investment in this area.”

Project making adifference in Derbyshire

Around 700 Derbyshire businesses have benefited from free support to improve their energy efficiencies and growth, thanks to the Accelerator Project.

The project, which started last autumn, and which is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is already making a tangible difference to businesses across the county.

So far, more than 400 businesses have received an hour or more of business adviser support which guides them in accessing the most appropriate support, whether it be the raft of initiatives that make up the Accelerator Project, or local authority or national grant funding.

Of the businesses supported so far, there has been almost a 50/50 split of those in urban and rural areas. Some 53 businesses have tapped into growth vouchers of up to £2,000 towards specialist training or consultancy advice and 50 have taken advantage of fully subsidised energy audits.

Of the grants and growth vouchers awarded to participating

businesses, it is anticipated that 62 jobs will be created or safeguarded as a result of this support.

They include Glossop-based GAP Plastics, which offers plastic injection moulding services to a range of sectors. It is a major supplier of seamless buoyancy packages well suited to the harsh environment of deep-sea oil and gas applications.

‘An energy audit carried out by an expert shows a business exactly what’s needed to reduce costs’

Commenting on the support received from Chamber-appointed energy adviser Sophie Wragg, GAP Plastics manufacturing director Steven Fitzpatrick said: “Sophie completed an energy audit in March which was very insightful.

“The report recommended replacing our current forklift truck with an electric version. This report

was then used to apply for funding which enabled us to qualify for 50% funding towards a new forklift truck.”

East Midlands Chamber deputy chief executive Diane Beresford said: “We are already seeing the Accelerator’s fully-funded energy audits making a tangible difference to businesses across the county.

“We all know it makes business sense to reduce energy usage, but every business needs a starting point when it comes to understanding their current usage and before they

can consider improving their business operations and practices.

“An energy audit carried out by an expert shows a business exactly what’s needed to reduce costs and provides the evidence needed to apply for a decarbonisation grant.”

Derbyshire businesses interested in signing up for an energy audit or finding out more about decarbonisation grants can visit: www.d2n2growthhub.co.uk/ accelerator

GAP Plastics

Francoise Derksen

An energy reduction workshop at Toyota

Top prizes for Chamber members

Four Chamber members were revealed as winners of the Regional British Chambers of Commerce Business Awards 2024.

Derbyshire’s Midland Lead, Derby-based HSG UK, Nottinghambased Turner and Townsend and Leicestershire-based Druck, a Baker Hughes business, were all announced as recipients.

The four regional winners were put forward by East Midlands Chamber after first winning its own local Business Awards in 2023.

East Midlands Chamber’s 2024 Awards for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire took place or are taking place last month and this month.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Being presented with a British Chambers of Commerce Business Award is testament to the leadership, strategy and innovation at each of these firms.

“The East Midlands punches high, and these thoroughly deserved awards further underline the region’s place as a centre of trading excellence.

“I extend my congratulations to Midland Lead, Turner and Townsend, Druck and HSG. These

REGIONAL BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AWARDS WON BY EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER MEMBERS:

• Midland Lead – People and Work Business of the Year

• HSG UK – Innovation Business of the Year

• Druck, a Baker Hughes business – Global Britain Business of the Year

• Turner & Townsend – Revolution Business of the Year

their net zero carbon ambitions using our digital tools to account for the two currencies of construction – cost and carbon.”

In the 50 years that it has been operating, Groby-based Druck, a Baker Hughes business, has built a reputation for developing and making some of the most precise pressure and temperature measurement technology in the world.

Francoise Derksen said: “We’re delighted that Midland Lead has been recognised by the British Chambers of Commerce for this prestigious People at Work award.

East Midlands Chamber members continue to be a shining example of what great business looks like, driving economic growth and, between them, doing Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire proud.”

Midland Lead managing director

“Over the last few years, we have continuously invested in a series of initiatives to make sure that our team feel valued and that everyone can thrive, through development, coaching and training programmes, reward plans and health and wellbeing initiatives.”

Turner & Townsend director Mark Deakin said: “At Turner & Townsend we are working with our clients to innovate and digitally transform our services. It’s fantastic that the British Chambers of Commerce has recognised our achievements with this award.

“Central to our mission is supporting our clients in achieving

Gordon Docherty, vice president of Druck, a Baker Hughes business, said: “Being recognised as one of the East Midlands’ most successful businesses is a tremendous accolade and reflects the quality of our pressure measurement technology and the hard work and dedication of the Druck team.”

HSG UK founder and managing director Simon Rice said: “We are deeply honoured to receive this recognition for our work in positively impacting environmental sustainability.

“Our mission is to raise washroom hygiene standards and help customers achieve their sustainability targets, by offering genuinely sustainable products, effective service delivery, and through leading by example with our internal sustainability commitments.”

Midland Lead

HSG UK

Druck, a Baker Hughes business, vice president Gordon Docherty

Turner & Townsend

director Mark Deakin

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles

FairChance creates a hirepurpose

East Midlands businesses could be plugging gaps in their workforce by hiring people with a criminal record.

East Midlands Chamber has announced support for a new jobs charter from the UK Fair Chance Business Alliance.

The alliance encourages businesses to open up recruitment and career progression to exoffenders, providing employers with resources to safely and sustainably make the most of what they have to offer.

‘By embracing, not excluding those with a criminal record, businesses can really take advantage of the vast expanse of this talent pool’

A recent ‘Go Live’ event set out the mission as well as plans for the future and promoted the businesses already involved.

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “In our Quarterly Economic Survey six out of ten

The UK Fair Chance Business Alliance encourages employers to hire people that have previously offended or served time in prison

respondents reported having difficulty finding suitable candidates to fill roles.

“The Chamber has supported prisons in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire on their employment advisory boards so supporting the Fair Chance Business Alliance and its ‘Go Live’ event to launch the charter is a natural progression that builds on that work.

provide resources and training to employers that sign up to it, so I’d really urge any business that’s struggled with recruitment to consider joining the Fair Chance Business Alliance.”

Alliance chairman Keith Jones said: “Overlooking this large group of candidates at a time when businesses are struggling to both attract and retain talent would be overlooking huge potential.

“Eight million British adults of working age have a criminal record, so to discount the opportunity presented by this talent pool would be limiting employers’ scope to find the best candidates.

“By embracing, not excluding those with a criminal record, businesses can really take advantage of the vast expanse of this talent pool. Widening the approach to employment would take the pressure off the recruitment process, increasing the number of skilled applicants and, ultimately, productivity.

“One of the best things about the charter is the way it can

“In addition to filling a vacancy, research shows that businesses gain a more inclusive and diverse workspace. Not only are businesses that join the alliance likely to see an increase in the number of applications for a role, but customers have the added comfort of knowing the business is community minded.

“Being an employer-led initiative, the alliance is set up to make implementation easy.”

For details visit: fairchancealliance.co.uk

Business Peak District (BPD) is a free membership organisation for businesses in the geographical 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 Peak District National Park Authority, the University of Derby, as well as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire. BPD has more than 700 members and aims to deliver its vision of a Peak District with a distinctive, high quality, rural environment and an enterprising, growing and sustainable economy, in which businesses act with a social and environmental conscience.

To find out more email members@businesspeakdistrict.com.

Offering support to rural communities

Business Peak District chairman Dr Peter Dewhurst (pictured) talks about his role and the recent launch of the BPD Concordat.

Can we begin with you telling me a little about yourself?

I began my working life launching and running my own import, wholesale-retail business before entering the higher education sector, where I spent most of my career engaging with businesses, especially SMEs in rural locations.

This saw me presenting papers and publishing work of direct relevance to businesses, as well as to those providing business support services.

It also saw me invited to join a variety of boards that have had a direct role in supporting Derbyshire’s business community and driving economic development within the region.

My passion for supporting the community within which I live and work led me to becoming a founding member of Business Peak District, before stepping into the vice chair’s role in 2020 and then the chair’s role in April 2023.

Tell me about Business Peak District

BPD was established in 2010 to serve as the voice of the Peak District’s business community,

‘My passion for supporting the community within which I live and work’

it’s a free-to-join organisation with its 700 members representing a variety of business sectors, with a majority of them microbusinesses and SMEs.

Tell me about the BPD Concordat

When I became BPD chair, I initiated an information gathering exercise that has informed the preparation of the BPD Concordat – six priorities that are the focus for BPD’s lobbying activities over the coming four years.

The Concordat was then the subject of a consensus-building exercise with business organisations and local authorities that have a responsibility for the Peak District. By the time of the BPD annual conference on 15 October, we’d secured a commitment from 13 such organisations to the priorities presented in the Concordat.

So what happens next?

BPD will now work with the 13 signatory organisations to campaign for implementation of the six priorities and this will see us engaging with the East Midlands Combined County Authority and other regional and national bodies. We will also be reaching out to organisations that work with business communities in other parts of the country, with a view to sharing information as well as best practice approaches to delivering changes that support the economic development of rural communities.

I also engaged with organisations such as NICRE, that work with other rural business communities, with a view to identifying common issues and best practice solutions.

Read the BPD Concordat at: is.gd/5FJPFe

Hiring plans lowest since the pandemic

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Insight Unit’s latest Quarterly Recruitment Outlook (QRO) suggests hiring intentions have dropped to their lowest levels since the depths of the pandemic.

The survey of more than 5,100 UK firms of all sizes and from all sectors, showed that 56% of respondents had attempted to recruit in the last three months, down from 59% in the previous quarter. The last time the attempted level of recruitment was lower was in the second quarter of 2021 – when there were still Covid restrictions – when it was at 52%.

The latest survey showed wide sectoral differences with transport (73%), hospitality (70%), and

BCC statistics show a downward trend in hiring intentions

construction (67%) firms looking for new staff. By contrast, more than half of retail (52%), professional services (54%), marketing and communication firms (54%) are not hiring.

Of the firms who tried to hire in the third quarter of 2024, 76%

reported difficulties, compared with 66% in the first three months of the year.

Construction and engineering firms are still bearing the brunt of staffing issues, with 85% reporting recruitment problems, up from 69% in Q1. Manufacturing is not far

behind with 80% having difficulty, while 76% of hospitality firms said they could not find the people they needed. At the other end of the scale, 65% of marketing and communications firms faced issues.

The third quarter of the year also saw a slight drop in funding in workplace training, as 25% of firms reported an increase in investment in staff, down from 28% in Q2. Most businesses (62%) reported no change in their investment plans for training over the past three months, with 13% saying they had decreased it.

Jane Gratton, deputy director public policy at the BCC, said: “The Government needs to drive growth and ensure there’s no drop in momentum.”

National day highlights the importance of manufacturing

East Midlands Manufacturing Network, an East Midlands Chamber initiative, supported businesses across the East Midlands as they opened their doors for National Manufacturing Day.

Aimed at highlighting the sector’s diversity and career opportunities, Make UK’s third National Manufacturing Day saw school leavers, graduates and local residents invited into premises to see how they operate.

Chamber head of leadership and

training programmes Vicki Thompson said: “Manufacturing plays a huge part in driving the East Midlands economy and with the region boasting so many businesses that make things, we must champion that whenever we can.

“The East Midlands Manufacturing Network, led by East Midlands Chamber, exists so we can do exactly that, bringing knowledge and ideas together, so being able to support National Manufacturing Day has been fantastic.

“Businesses gave the next generation of manufacturers the

Charity, manufacturer and Chamber member Aquabox has joined the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN).

The charity was introduced to the network by charity trustee Rob Barlow, owner of TDP in Wirksworth and a member of the Derbyshire group. Rob provides marketing support for the charity in his role as trustee.

‘This is a great opportunity for us to welcome another East Midlands manufacturing business to the network’

The Chamber launched the EMMN in March 2022 and there are now six networks running across the East Midlands in Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Each meets every eight weeks throughout the year.

Founded in 1992, the Aquabox charity operates with just two part-time members of staff and is run almost entirely by volunteers, to produce family water filters at

opportunity to go ‘behind the scenes’ and see the level of skill that underpins the whole manufacturing process.”

ITP Aero UK in Hucknall hosted students from five schools to learn about manufacturing and engineering in aerospace, take part in STEM activities and see Midlands Aerospace Alliance’s Defence and Aerospace Technology Roadshow.

ITP Aero UK managing director Ian Williamson said: “As a growing company, we are continuously looking to the future and seeking people who can help us to create world-class products.”

Specialised Canvas in

Local charity joins network

their site in Wirksworth, Derbyshire.

The filters are then packed with other emergency supplies into their Aqua-aid boxes, which are distributed around the world to countries suffering from natural and man-made disasters, and have provided safe drinking water to hundreds of thousands of people. Their supplies are exported thanks to the efforts of a volunteer logistics co-ordinator.

Following an upgrade of their production room and the introduction of “lean manufacturing” through a project led by Dominic Wish, their trustee responsible for operations, production has doubled at the site and there is still capacity to increase that if the charity is successful in securing additional funding.

The water filter production room runs four days a week, with 135 volunteers contributing to operations.

EMMN advisor Debbie Rogers said: “I recently visited Aquabox with Rob Barlow and it was fantastic to meet the volunteers working on site that day.

“This is a great opportunity for us to welcome another East Midlands manufacturing business to the network and at the same time support a very impressive local charity.”

Chesterfield challenged Year 12 students from Netherthorpe School to design and make a sports bag, exploring every stage of manufacture, from design to production.

Managing director Paul Noble said: “It was great fun to host the Year 12 Students, and I really hope they enjoyed their manufacturing experience. The manufacturing sector is something the East Midlands can be proud of and having a day to celebrate the sector and inspire younger generations, as they consider their career journey canonly be a good thing. At Specialised Canvas we were pleased to play our part in that.”

Roger Cassidy chair of Aquabox trustees with fellow trustees Rob Barlow and Cheryle Berry

Students learned about the manufacture of sports bags at Specialised Canvas

Specialised Canvas managing director Paul Noble hosts the EMMN

Derbyshire-based Hardy Signs hosted two groups of college students and gave presentations on manufacturing.

Marketing Manager Blu Hardy said: “It’s so important to wave the flag for manufacturing in the East Midlands.

“This is a region that’s famously good for making things. At Hardy Signs, we live and breathe that every day – we design, manufacture and install bespoke signage for an infinite range of industries and sectors. To be able to share that passion and a behind the scenes insight with the younger generation has been really rewarding.”

Recruitment firm signs up as Strategic Partner

Leicestershire-based ER Recruitment has been announced as a new Strategic Partner of East Midlands Chamber, following more than 30 years as a member of the business network.

ER Recruitment’s founder and managing director

Eileen Perry MBE DL, who formed the business after managing a large recruitment company, is a former Chamber President and currently co-chair of its Enterprising Women network, which has championed women in business in the East Midlands for 27 years.

The business is recognised throughout the East Midlands for matching talented jobseekers to reputable businesses from entry level up to senior management.

In partnership with De Montfort University, ER Recruitment runs the BrightER Futures programme, which aims to give final year students an opportunity to gain valuable skills. Some 20 companies including Breedon Consulting, Michael Smith Switchgear, Scope Construction and Unique Windows Systems, are part of the scheme.

ER also supports multiple charitable organisations, including the Bodie Hodges Foundation, Lamp, Menphys Sports Club and Wooden Spoon.

Its business and marketing manager Scarlett Canavan is set to become chair of Generation Next in 2025, a network of young professionals powered by East Midlands Chamber.

‘The impact ER Recruitment has had on business in the region cannot be understated’

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “I’m delighted to welcome ER Recruitment as a Strategic Partner of East Midlands Chamber. The impact ER Recruitment has had on business in the region cannot be understated. Identifying outstanding talent, connecting and matching people with employers year after year is one thing, but alongside that ER Recruitment has always gone above and beyond.

“As a longstanding Chamber member, ER Recruitment has been at the centre of the East Midlands business community for many years, while its support of countless charitable organisations and its role in strengthening the link between academic expertise and workplace skill has made a difference to people’s lives.

“With initiatives like BrightER Futures, in partnership with De Montfort University, ER Recruitment is an inspirational business. At its heart is its founder, Eileen Perry MBE DL who has worked tirelessly to champion a long list of causes in the East Midlands.

“As co-chair of the Chamber’s Enterprising Women network, Eileen has excelled in raising the profile of women in business, while I know Scarlett Canavan, ER Recruitment’s business and marketing manager will be brilliant when she becomes the chair of the Chamber’s Generation Next network in 2025.”

Eileen Perry MBE DL said: “We are incredibly proud to become a Strategic

Partner of East Midlands Chamber. Our long-standing relationship with the Chamber has allowed us to connect with likeminded businesses and support our community in meaningful ways.”

Scarlett Canavan added: “Joining East Midlands Chamber as a Strategic Partner is an exciting opportunity for ER Recruitment to further enhance our impact in the region.”

network

ER Recruitment’s founder and managing director, Eileen Perry MBE DL

Scarlett Canavan, ER Recruitment’s business and marketing manager

HyDEX – helping to develop the Midlands’ hydrogen economy

HyDEX is a programme designed to address a market failure and challenge: How do you rapidly build a new business, industrial and manufacturing sector when very little exists already?

The HyDEX programme is funded by Research England and managed by the Energy Research Accelerator (ERA), a partnership of eight leading universities and the British Geological Survey. HyDEX has been supporting and fostering the creation of a new hydrogen industrial economy in the Midlands. The HyDEX programme has been working with businesses from SMEs to world-renowned international corporates such as Toyota and JCB, and regional public sector bodies like the Midlands Engine, to accelerate innovation, build markets and support the required skills transition.

In recent years hydrogen has become increasingly recognised as an energy vector that could be a low-carbon fuel that could play an important role in decarbonisation across multiple sectors, including transport and industry.

BUILDING HYDROGEN KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE

Over the last couple of years, HyDEX has been helping to build the hydrogen sector in the East Midlands by:

• Working with commercial partners to accelerate innovation, build markets and support businesses.

• Improving hydrogen facilities at university partners and offering research expertise to businesses to encourage the development of new hydrogen products and services.

• Supporting the design and development of hydrogen skills to help businesses retrain for emerging technologies.

• Working with local government and policymakers to influence the development of national and regional policy around hydrogen.

• Capitalising on international connections to link businesses with growing international countries to build commercial for the Midlands and beyond.

RAISING AWARENESS

The HyDEX project has successfully raised awareness hydrogen as a net zero fuel which can be used by a variety of industry sectors across the Midlands. It has engaged and worked in

collaboration with leading businesses and organisations including Hydrogen UK and the newly established East Midlands Hydrogen partnership.

HyDEX has held events at Toyota and JCB to bring together businesses, academics and public sector specialists who have an interest in building the hydrogen economy.

Thanks to HyDEX funding, more resources are now available to businesses with the development of hydrogen skills & training programmes, and the installation of new hydrogen infrastructure in the region. Furthermore, co-investigators have worked with partners and businesses to help raise millions of pounds in funding for future research and development across multiple sectors including the hydrogen aero industry.

DEMONSTRATING HYDROGEN’S POTENTIAL

HyDEX has co-funded a number of projects as first steps towards realising its aim of creating a hydrogen economy, for example:

• The Midlands Hydrogen Rail Study set the vision for hydrogen passenger rail services in the region.

• SMEs have been supported with resources to enable product testing and validation which increased technology readiness levels (TRL) towards commercialisation.

• Tailored workshops with local authorities explained the potential of hydrogen to decarbonise council and local business resources, backed up by the developed an online toolkit.

• Industry roundtable discussions looked at the opportunities and challenges of hydrogen in various sectors including the infrastructure and price-point needed to make it a viable option.

• Focused events brought together EU and UK policymakers in a series of workshops aimed to exploit shared learning and opportunities for change.

INTERNATIONAL LINKS

HyDEX has established links with several countries, including Singapore on the use of hydrogen as a Sustainable Aviation Fuel, and also with South Korea’s Chungnam Techno Park where innovative hydrogen businesses are looking to link with businesses and researchers in the Midlands. HyDEX has also undertaken a study looking at the ways in which the UK and EU can accelerate the hydrogen economy by working together.

SUPPORTING HYDROGEN INNOVATION

HyDEX has been helping businesses and researchers to innovate. Over the last three years, the programme has:

• Supported the development of over 20 new products and services relevant to the hydrogen economy and generated over 10 commercial opportunities.

• Provided opportunities for over 50 businesses and 300 individuals to learn new skills as technology changes in line with a new hydrogen economy.

• Run workshops with industries to identify hydrogen opportunities in the future.

• Enabled partnerships and connected hydrogen businesses within the UK and internationally to allow the rapid establishment of UK hydrogen projects.

• Supported activities to share knowledge between UK academic partners and international counterparts.

DEVELOPING SKILLS FOR THE NEW HYDROGEN ECONOMY

HyDEX and the Energy Research Accelerator have been helping to develop the skills that will be

needed to support the growth of hydrogen. This has included promoting STEM and hydrogen careers to school pupils through our Hydrogen Grand Prix competition, where students built and raced a model hydrogen car. For business people and university researchers we have been raising awareness of the latest developments in hydrogen through our Winter and Summer Hydrogen Schools, where delegates learned about hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilisation in various sectors.

CREATING A MIDLANDS HYDROGEN VALLEY

The HyDEX programme has also coordinated the formation of a regional consortium to bid for EU Hydrogen Valley funding. If successful, the Hydrogen Valley will support the development of hydrogen projects across the Midlands and will produce at least 4000 tonnes of clean hydrogen.

PROVIDING GREEN POWER FOR THE TOUCH RUGBY WORLD CUP

The Touch World Cup took place in Nottingham earlier this year. HyDEX helped to power it with green hydrogen.

HyDEX supported local company, Geopura, to put its HPU green hydrogen generator which is providing clean, green power to the Highfield and

Riverside sites in Nottingham where the Touch games were played.

The Touch World Cup in Nottingham was the biggest one ever, with around 4000 participants (players, coaches, referees and volunteers) from 39 nations, comprising 139 teams playing mixed, men’s and women’s Touch over several different age categories. Around 10,000 spectators came over the course of the week.

An event of this scale – 23 fields spread across two venues for seven days – would normally have required the use of diesel generators to supplement mains electricity supply. Instead, two hydrogen powered generators, provided the supplementary power needed for the event, with zero harmful emissions.

Nick King, marketing manager for HyDEX, said: “We were delighted to support Geopura’s green hydrogen generator, which provided clean power for the Touch World Cup. Geopura is an innovative local company that we have worked closely with through our HyDEX hydrogen development programme.

“I hope that other sports and concert organisers look at the novel way that the Touch World Cup is powering itself through hydrogen, and realise that there is now a clean, green, costeffective alternative to petrol and diesel powered generators.”

COME TO THE HYDEX CELEBRATION EVENT IN DERBY!

If you are interested in hydrogen, you may like to register for the HyDEX celebration event which is taking place at the Museum of Making in Derby on Thursday 7 November. The event is FREE to attend - register on www.tiny.cc/HyDEX

WANT MORE INFORMATION?

For more information about HyDEX, visit www.hydex.ac.uk

Or email enquiries@era.ac.uk if you have any questions about the HyDEX programme

Programme gives directors direction

The next Chamber Director Development Programme starts on 21 January, with five sessions delivered over the following weeks until 11 March.

Along with providing hands-on experience of managing and leading others, the dedicated programme helps provide a well-rounded view of the workings of a director, and refresh participants’ knowledge of the processes and skills useful to a senior role.

The five full days of the programme take delegates through the various skills needed to succeed – including leadership strategies, planning priorities, finance, people management approaches and driving performance and change.

The course is aimed at all business leaders from new directors to experienced business owners who want to grow their staff numbers, senior managers or directors who have been given new budgetary and financial responsibilities, experienced managers looking for the next step, and senior staff members who have been given new responsibilities to lead change within their business.

Led by experienced trainer Charles Barnascone, sessions cover the whole business development process – with each day providing specific action steps to be completed over the following days.

The course will run at the East Midlands Chamber Nottingham office and costs £1,550 for Chamber members and £1,950 for non-members plus-VAT.

For details visit: is.gd/wErnim

Tickets on sale for this year’s Christmas lunch

Tickets are available for one of the biggest events in the Chamber’s annual calendar –the 2024 Christmas lunch.

Taking place at Athena, in Leicester on 6 December, the annual event is a chance for businesses to connect with professionals and businesses from across the East Midlands over a three-course gourmet meal with live entertainment.

Comedian Ted Robbins, known for memorable roles in Benidorm, Little Britain and for working

Top PAs celebrated at regional awards

alongside Peter Kay in Phoenix Nights, has been confirmed as 2024’s special guest entertainer.

East Midlands Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said: “The Chamber Christmas lunch is perfectly timed in early December, when those in business are eager to embrace the year ahead but just as ready to take a breather and reflect on the year gone by.

“Whether it’s forging new partnerships, finding potential clients or expanding your professional circle, the Christmas lunch is a superb setting.

Awards were announced at a glittering gala

Introducing the awards, Lesley Young (pictured), executive support manager for East Midlands Chamber and co-founder of organisers the East Midlands PA Forum, said: “Business support professionals play a crucial role within our organisations.

businesses and contribute in ways often overlooked. We are no longer just gatekeepers; we are gateways, enabling others to achieve their goals and becoming the backbone of our organisations. Our support is vital for many initiatives.”

She told the winners and finalists: “We honour your achievements and spotlight the impact you make. Your contributions are extraordinary and deserve recognition.”

If you and your organisation would like to find out more information about PA Forum events across the East Midlands please contact: PA Forum founder Daniel Skermer at daniel@paforum.co.uk or Lesley Young at lesley.young@emc-dnl.co.uk

celebration at Athena in Leicester.

Guests at last year’s event

Some of the winners celebrate at this year’s East Midlands PA Awards

Comedian Ted Robbins

Being a key event in the Chamber calendar, I’m delighted that TV comedian Ted Robbins will head up an afternoon of excellent live entertainment, in this impressive and prestigious former cinema, now a landmark venue in Leicester.”

Tickets are £75 for Chamber members and £95 for non-members and can be booked at is.gd/yxzNAD.

To find out about sponsorship opportunities email trace.voss@emc-dnl.co.uk

Chamber continues cultural event support

Following the success of the Chamber’s Celebration of Culture and Communities event earlier in the year, the Chamber has announced that it is extending its partnership with Leicester business consultancy Sanjib 8, to help organise the evening.

The 2025 Celebration of Culture and Communities event will take place on 4 April in Leicester and expected to attract around 500 people from the across the East Midlands.

The celebration first took place in 2019 to recognise the diverse people and communities within the region, bringing together businesses and charities from across Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

Sanjib 8 managing director Sanjib Sahota said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be working in partnership with East Midlands Chamber to deliver this special event.

“The event was just brilliant last time out and the response from people that attended the event and the reaction on social media has been fantastic.

“We have some exciting plans for the event in April in Leicester, there will be some

incredible entertainment and delicious food again. It will be an event that celebrates diversity, and the positive contribution so many people, businesses and charities make to us all.”

For more information event please contact Sanjib Sahota at info@sanjib.com

EAST MIDLANDS PA AWARDS WINNERS

Independent Virtual Assistant of the Year

• Sarah Szekir-Papasavva, Apt Virtual Assistance, sponsored by Treat Kitchen Administrative Professional of the Year

• Ingrid Dyson, University of Leicester, sponsored by Handpicked Hotels

Rising Star

• Begum Karacaoglu, University of Nottingham, sponsored by Chauffeured by Car and Chauffeur Exchange

Outstanding Achievement Award

• Sara Parkin, De Montfort University, sponsored by Hays

Team of the Year

• Academic Support Team, De Montfort University, sponsored by Turkish Airlines

Lifetime Achievement

• Annie Jones, A J Mills Master Mason, sponsored by Ashorne Hill

Business Support Manager of the Year

• Linda Marshall, Uniper, sponsored by Amplify

Project Champion of the Year

• Sebastian Rotaru, Amazon, sponsored by ORS UK

PA of the Year

• Amber Honarmand, OpSec Security, sponsored by Marriott Hotels

ABOVE: Sanjay Foods at 2024 Chamber Celebration of Culture and Communities

BELOW: The EAGA Gospel Choir were among the performers at the event

MAIN PICTURE: There was plenty of cultural dancing at the 2024 event, which took place earlier this year

Jaffer Kapasi and Stuart Dawkins at the 2023 Chamber Christmas Lunch

Leicester Business Festival is the place to go for growth

The Leicester Business Festival runs from 4-15 November, this year celebrating its 10th anniversary, with a line-up of 70 free events aimed at business growth, collaboration and innovation.

Highlights at the 2024 festival include sessions led by distinguished keynote speakers such as Rob Paternostro, head coach of the Leicester Riders, and Dr. Julia Jones – ‘Dr. Rock’ – a leading neuroscientist and wellness expert.

Both speakers join the list of events and talks set to bring invaluable insights to the region’s business leaders to help empower them to elevate their performance.

East Midlands Chamber has signed up as a key partner for Leicester Business Festival 2024.

Rob Paternostro is one of British basketball’s most respected coaches, having led the Riders to numerous championships.

His expertise in building high-performing teams and creating a resilient culture will offer a valuable lesson for businesses seeking to enhance their own success.

The “Delivering Partnerships for Growth” event and Q&A session takes place on 12 November at the Gresham Aparthotel in Leicester city centre, which is the latest sponsor of the festival.

The event is also a chance for the aparthotel in the former Fenwick department store building to reveal its new bar and restaurant with a chance to sample canapés and bite-sized menu items.

Snizhana Yesaulenko (pictured), chief executive of The Gresham, said: “Leicester is renowned for being one of the best places to

...and the line-up is growing too

The LBF 2024 line-up has been revealed, featuring more than 70 impressive events which are now open for free booking on the official Leicester Business Festival website. The festival will deliver two weeks of valuable insights from leading experts across sectors such as creative and digital, professional services, hospitality, education, and more. With topics ranging from AI and entrepreneurship to inclusive workplace strategies, this year’s LBF promises something for every business professional.

KEY SESSIONS INCLUDE

• Business Owners Masterclass: From ‘No’ to ‘Yes’ (Mon 4 Nov, 10-11am) – Insider tips on improving your chances of securing business loans.

• New Government, New Tax Rates (4 November, 2:30-4:30pm) – Explore how new Labour Government policies will impact SMEs.

• Entrepreneurship Day (5 November, 11am12:30pm) – A TEDx-style event from DMU featuring inspiring speakers.

• Leveraging AI: A ‘How To’ Guide (7 November, 8:30-10:30am) – Learn practical AI applications that can drive growth in your business.

• OMG! I’m starting a business but don’t know where to begin… (7 November, 10am12pm) – For aspiring entrepreneurs to engage with a panel of experienced business owners and experts.

work in the East Midlands and the Leicester Business Festival plays a key role in driving those connections and innovations.

“We’re proud to support the festival especially as we contribute to the vibrant business and tourism community year-round. We’re excited to host the ‘Delivering Partnerships for Growth’ event and I encourage businesses to join us in celebrating the power of business in Leicester!”

On 7 November, Dr Julia Jones will join an event hosted by PPL PRS at the organisation’s headquarters in Mercury Place, St George Street.

PPL PRS supports businesses who use live music, radio, and TV in their workplaces by

• Sales Geek: How to Sell on Amazon (12 November, 1:15-4pm) – Expert guidance on launching and optimising Amazon sales strategies.

• Bills, Beers, and Bowling (12 November, 6-8pm) – Bring a copy of your latest energy bill and join the awardwinning Assured Energy at Lane 7 for hospitality.

• Pitch Perfect with Barclays Demo Directory (14 November, 10am-12pm) – Sharpen your pitching skills to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Additionally, the Chamber’s Leicestershire Business Awards 2024 will take place on Friday, 8 November at The Venue, DMU. Richard Osborn (pictured), regional director at Excello Law and chair of the LBF Community Interest Company, said: “These events are delivered by experts and professionals across the region, and LBF serves as a powerful platform that inspires and elevates businesses.

“This year’s line-up includes dynamic workshops, masterclasses, podcasts, panels, and networking opportunities, all designed to fit seamlessly into your day. I urge everyone to get involved, and with sessions filling up quickly, don’t miss out.”

providing TheMusicLicence – ensuring the fees collected are redistributed to music creators as royalties (after covering operational costs). Dr Jones, the PPL PRS smart wellness coach, also advises on how music can improve health and well-being. Her event, titled ‘The Music Diet and How It Could Benefit Your Business’ will employ innovative approaches to music, making scientific concepts memorable and actionable, and equipping attendees with practical tools to enhance their daily lives.

Both events can be booked online at: www.leicesterbusinessfestival.com

Rob Paternostro Credit: Leicester Riders

Traditional cement, used in concrete, uses lots of carbon

Green cement from power station ash

Hive Aggregates has gained planning permission to extract buried power station ash from a landfill site in Retford, to use as a sustainable cement alternative.

The building materials business, which is part of the Hive Energy Group, said the Retford Circular Economy Project (RCEP) could help decarbonise cement manufacturing, saving close to a tonne of carbon for every tonne used.

A spokesman said: “The construction industry is hugely damaging to the environment. If the cement industry were a country, it would be the third largest carbon emitter in the world, behind only the US and China.”

The business said pulverised fuel ash (PFA) had been safely used in UK construction for decades, sourced from coal-fired power stations.

With the closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power plant at Ratcliffe-upon-Soar at the end of September, an alternative source was required. As well as producing a sustainable cement alternative, the project includes plans to restore the Retford landfill site, promoting biodiversity and natural landscapes.

Rail links will aid jobs as well as environment

Research suggests that building rail links between Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham would lead to 3,000 jobs during construction and through the supply chain – on top of the environmental benefits of getting cars off the road.

Analysis by Midlands Connect suggests recruitment would peak at around 850 with an average of around 400 a year, with most roles in skilled occupations such as engineering, operatives or project management.

‘This project is so much more than just a rail scheme, it will create high-skilled and highpaid jobs, grow our economy and kick-start careers’

The regional transport body also estimates that 70 apprentices would be recruited over the course of the seven-year build. It says linking Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham by rail could generate an additional £68m in economic value through job creation and almost £11m in social value benefits – including environmental, wellbeing and social benefits. That would be on

top of the traditional transport and wider economic benefits outlined in the business case, which amounted to £170m at the last update.

Journey times along the route would be cut significantly, with trips from Coventry to Leicester falling from 54 to as low as 30 minutes, with trips from Coventry to Nottingham falling to around 65 minutes. Loughborough and East Midlands Parkway could also have new, direct and more frequent links to Coventry.

Currently, just 3% of trips between Coventry and Leicester are made by train; compared to 30% of journeys made between Coventry and Birmingham. Midlands Connect wants to win Government backing to reinstate direct services between Coventry, Leicester and Nottingham for the first time in two decades.

Eco-friendly flooring for training facility

A vehicle mechanic training facility is doing its bit for the environment by becoming one of the first in the UK to use recycled plastic in its flooring.

Open Road West Norfolk enlisted the expertise of Loughborough-based Abacus Flooring Solutions, to replace the floor surface at the 1970s building in Kings Lynn, which had been painted so many times that it became unfit for purpose.

The centre has installed this ‘world first’, environmentally-friendly flooring in its four-bay motor vehicle workshop.

Abacus Flooring Solutions’ Abaplas flooring

system uses waste plastic as a substitute bulking material in its resin flooring, reducing the volume of plastic ending up in landfill.

It also removes silica sand, which requires a carbon-heavy extraction process and is dangerous when inhaled, replacing it with nonharmful recycled plastic, which has been ground down to a powder.

The team at Abacus Flooring Solutions used a diamond tipped grinder to prepare the floor, then laid resin and topped that with the recycled plastic finish. The project tackled the existing 323 sq m floor space, and took four workers around a week to complete.

How Leicester station will look after a multi-millionpound revamp

Leicester station has been the subject of a number of planning exercises

Open Road West Norfolk has enlisted the expertise of Loughborough based Abacus Flooring Solutions

Revolutionise your workspace with intelligent climate control

TIRED OF SKY-HIGH ENERGY BILLS AND INCONSISTENT HEATING IN YOUR COMMERCIAL PREMISES?

Step into the future of climate control with air source heat pump technology, now with full Wi-Fi control and AI optimisation.

EMBRACE

COMFORT AND EFFICIENCY

Imagine a workspace where the temperature is always perfect, no matter the weather outside.

Air source heat pumps offer:

Superior energy efficiency:

Extract heat from the outside air, even in cold temperatures, providing significant savings on your energy bills.

Precise temperature control:

Maintain consistent comfort with advanced sensors and intelligent zoning.

Eco-friendly solution:

Reduce your carbon footprint with a sustainable heating solution that utilises renewable energy.

UNLOCK

THE POWER OF SMART TECHNOLOGY

Our cutting-edge systems feature: Full Wi-Fi control:

Manage your heating from anywhere, anytime, using your smartphone or tablet.

AI-powered optimisation:

The system learns your preferences and automatically adjusts the temperature for maximum comfort and energy savings.

Smart scheduling:

Set different heating schedules for different zones and times, ensuring optimal efficiency and comfort.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF YOUR BUSINESS

Upgrading to an air source heat pump with Wi-Fi control and AI is an investment in the future of your business.

Boost employee productivity:

A comfortable work environment leads to happier, more productive employees.

Enhance your brand image: Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Reduce operating costs: Significant energy savings translate to lower operating costs and a healthier bottom line.

TESTIMONIAL:

“As a school we have been very pleased with Smart Energy and the support they have given us is second to none.

“The air conditioning installation went smoothly and teachers are extremely happy with the new system. Regular servicing has taken place and the engineers are very thorough and address issues promptly.

“Smart Energy also provided us with a report of our energy usage across school and found from this that LED lights throughout school would increase our efficiency vastly. They came during the summer holidays to install and nothing was too much trouble for them.

“I can highly recommend Smart Energy for their exceptional service and professionalism. I have found them to be a very trustworthy company and they are the first company we contact with regards to any electrical and energy purchases.”

Chamber offers expert services to help you trade overseas

East Midlands Chamber provides a range of services to help businesses which have to import and export goods and services carry out their work as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

As well as regular on-line and in-person training courses, the Chamber offers services which can make the difference between troublefree trading and costly delays.

Our export office, for instance, provides support for every aspect of export administration, ensuring they are compliant with overseas trading rules.

The team has the ability to check and amend commodity codes and raise documents such as Certificates of Origin, EUR1s, commercial invoices and packing lists.

Another service the Chamber offers is in supplying ATA Carnets. These are travel documents required by border officials when businesses temporarily export items into and out of the UK – items such as sports equipment, audio-visual equipment or display items for exhibitions.

The customs document helps streamline the customs process by offering a dedicated declaration form with a predetermined cost.

The team has been issuing carnets for more than a decade and has seen the number processed grow since the UK left the EU – for the simple reason that they weren’t needed for travel into and out of Europe when we still held membership.

Before Brexit the team was issuing about 100 a year for the US, India, China, Morocco, Turkey. Today they are issuing 450 carnets a year – with 80-90% for the EU.

Customers make their application online, which is then assessed to ensure that the goods comply and the country they are going to will accept them.

Costs vary depending on the goods, where they are going and for how long but it tends to be a lot cheaper than if the client was paying typical export and import costs.

The team can turn ATA Carnets around in 24to-48 hours, but generally asks for three-to-fivedays to complete the processing because of all the toing-and-froing that is sometimes needed.

OTHER SERVICES OFFERED BY THE CHAMBER INTERNATIONAL TEAM

Customs Health Check:

HMRC is putting full responsibility on businesses who import and/or export and expects full awareness and compliance.

The Chamber’s expert consultants can guide businesses through a personalised one-on-one session to ensure documentation will pass an HMRC audit.

The service is free.

ITOPS – International Trade Operations and Procedures qualification:

The International Trade Operations and Procedures (ITOPS) qualification is a BCCaccredited, practical, relevant qualification designed to prove that candidates have the necessary skills to accurately operate in an international trade environment – whether they are manufacturers, suppliers or freight forwarders. It concentrates on training staff in the key areas of:

• Export documentation

• Freight moving

• Customs and official procedures

• International payment methods

The course is delivered in partnership with Fidelitas Training.

International courses:

The Chamber has a range of courses focussing on the compliance side of international trading –

for example Incoterms® 2020, Customs Procedures and Documentation, Understanding Commodity Coding and IP/OPR-Inward/Outward Processing Relief.

The most popular course is Export Documentation which covers what documents are required and how to complete them correctly.

The Chamber will be able to advise businesses on the best support on offer and any available funding.

Contact Julie Whiting or Theresa Hewitt on internationaltraining@emc-dnl.co.uk for an eligibility check.

‘The most popular course is Export Documentation which covers what documents are required and how to complete them correctly’

The Chamber International Team can help get your exports moving

ICC Genesis:

The Chamber recently joined a pilot project to make it easier for businesses to trade within the framework of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) – a new International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) digital trade tool called ICC Genesis, which helps streamline the invoice self-declaration process.

To benefit from FTAs, exporters must self-certify where goods originated – and during the process, Rules of Origins determine if goods are eligible for duty-free or reduced duties under FTAs.

The simplified certification process offered by ICC Genesis verifies that the self-declaration that has been made is accurate – giving both the exporter and importer peace of mind.

Chamber Customs declarations:

The Chamber’s expertise can be used to help businesses avoid border delays and additional costs. The team has extensive knowledge and a solid reputation and can provide first-class service in helping with international trade –taking the hassle out of a business’s hands.

The service can ensure that customs clearance is accurate, timely and avoids additional costs through delays or errors.

Lucy Granger, international trade manager at East Midlands Chamber said: “Our international team has years of experience helping the region trade successfully overseas. The range of services we now offer is so broad that we can help with pretty much any export issue that a company might have – whatever it is, please contact us and we will find a way to help.”

To find out more visit: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/services/international

INTERNATIONAL TRADE TRAINING UNDERSTANDING COMMODITY CODING

NEW DATE ADDED: 19 NOVEMBER 2024

A new date has been added for this course covering such a key area for international traders.

Who in your organisation is responsible for the classification of your goods for imports/exports and when were these last reviewed?

Are they following the official WCO general interpretation rules – and checking all the relevant the legal notices?

Failure to understand/follow the rules can lead to incorrect classification –with ramifications in terms of origin declarations and the calculation of duties, taxes plus any other trade measures. Challenges from overseas customs authorities are quite common, which can trigger more in depth investigation and the risk of potential clawback and fines – not to mention potentially difficult discussions with your global customer base.

Join us for this interactive training session to ensure you follow the correct rules and can be confident that your business can satisfy any scrutiny by customs authorities in the UK or overseas.

The full international trade training programme can be viewed here: www.emc-dnl.co.uk

Exports fluctuate but grounds for optimism

Responding to the latest ONS data on trade, William Bain, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The last three months have seen big swings in UK goods exports, with a double-digit fall in sales sandwiched between two double-digit increases.

“Taking the data from June to August, overall, produces a 2.8% increase in value terms over that period. UK services exports continue to offer stability with modest, but steady, monthon-month growth.

“There are reasons for optimism. The World Trade Organisation [has] forecast a gradual recovery in sales of goods and strong growth in services for the second half of this year.”

He said the forthcoming Spending Review and Trade Strategy must all focus on providing the conditions to expand trade as a driver of growth for the UK economy.

THE PICTURE IN DETAIL

Goods

The volume of UK goods exports surged by 10.8% in August to complete a three-month period of two double-digit increases either side of a double-digit dip. Sales to the EU rose by 13.2% and to non-EU countries by 8.4%.

Exports to the EU were led by rises in machinery and transport equipment, with aircraft sales to Germany a major driver. Chemicals exports were also strong, chiefly medicines and pharmaceutical goods to Germany and Belgium.

For non-EU countries, demand was high for manufactured material goods in India, mechanical machinery in China, and chemicals exports in the USA.

Taking the past three months, as a whole, goods exports values rose by 2.8% from the start of June to the end of August.

On UK goods imports, there was a small increase of 0.2% in volume terms in August, with non-EU imports rising by 2.8%.

This was driven by fuel import rises from Norway and increased mechanical equipment imports from China.

However, this was offset by a fall in EU imports of 2.4% in volume terms, led by lower car imports from Germany and refined oil from Belgium.

Services

Services exports were estimated to have a steady month with growth of 0.2% in August in both value and volume terms. Services imports to the UK increased slightly by 0.5% in value for August.

William Bain

Experts at the Chamber can help businesses avoid border delays

Free event to boost Charnwood business

Businesses in Charnwood can sign up for a free event offering advice, speakers and networking opportunities.

Going for Growth takes place on 8 November as part of the Leicester Business Festival.

It is being organised by inCharnwood, the borough council’s economic development and regeneration team, and will take place on the Charnwood Campus – the Loughborough science, innovation and technology park which is home to a number of successful businesses.

Guest speakers include serial entrepreneur Luke Tobin who started his first business at 19 and runs digital marketing agency Digital Ethos and Tobin Capital, which offers consultancy services and investment for start-ups.

There will also be a chance to find out more about Charnwood’s Scale-up programme which can help established businesses which want to expand. The scheme can help businesses establish their priorities, compose an action plan and develop a business improvement project.

Chris Grace, the council’s head of economic development and regeneration, said: “Charnwood is a great place to do business and we are keen to help smaller businesses expand and deliver their full potential.”

The Going for Growth event will run from 9am until 1pm. For more information and to sign up, visit: www.incharnwood.gov.uk

Consultation to look at impact of Storm Babet EM DevCo hands the reins over to local authority

Business leaders and residents in Derbyshire have been invited to take part in a consultation looking at the severe flooding that hit the region following Storm Babet in October 2023. The storm was one of the most severe to hit the UK in recent years and flooded around 1,600 properties in Derbyshire.

‘This report is full of detail and sets out some highlevel recommendations to help those parts of the county that flooded’

As the Lead Local Flood Authority, Derbyshire County Council has a duty to carry out a flooding investigation, and is inviting comments

E(DevCo) is passing on its work to the East Midlands Combined County Authority.

The organisation was set up three years ago to lead work on three major growth opportunities around Ratcliffe Power Station, Toton and East Midlands Airport.

It has also supported work around the railway stations at East Midlands Parkway, Nottingham, Derby, and Chesterfield, and the masterplan for three former power stations in Bassetlaw working with the UKAEA and other local partners.

a three-year project, is now going through the process of being formally wound up.

Property expert Sir Chris Haworth has chaired the board from its inception in 2021.

He said: “This is a momentous year for the East Midlands with some hugely exciting opportunities.

“Some of the sites and opportunities are of national, if not international significance.

Realising the full potential will require new approaches and ways of working and the East Midlands is well placed to embrace these opportunities.”

from anyone who was affected. Its draft investigation – produced with organisations such as the Environment Agency – highlights 35 communities where five or more residential properties were flooded, covering the impact of the flooding. It also provides analysis of the rain that fell and its effect on Derbyshire’s rivers.

The finished report will give recommendations about how future flood risk in Derbyshire could be managed.

Cllr Charlotte Cupit, county council cabinet member with responsibility for highways and transport, said: “We know the devastating impact the Storm Babet floods had on many residents and businesses last year.

“This formal report into the floods will set out a factual record of what happened and what the effect on the county was, and the 12-week consultation into the draft report is to get the

views of those who were sadly affected.

“This report is full of detail and sets out some high-level recommendations to help those parts of the county that flooded.

“Alongside as well as part of the report, we continue working with other organisations to do all we can to try and prevent or mitigate future

Charnwood Campus

Flooding at Burton on Trent, Stapenhill Park, October 2023

Credit: Marcin Kanka

flooding. I’d encourage anyone affected to respond to the consultation with your views and information.”

The consultation is open until 19 December 2024. For details or to take part visit: is.gd/RQQucZ

East Midlands mayor Claire Ward said: “The DevCo has opened a new way of looking at how we deliver development with the infrastructure to match and we want to build on this as we develop our inclusive growth strategy for the East Midlands. I would like to thank the local authorities, Sir Chris, the board and all those involved for their ambition for our region and the work they’ve done.”

The company was set up for a three-year term as an interim arrangement ahead of a new type of statutory development corporation like London Docklands being established.

It also brought on board the team behind the redevelopment of high-profile regeneration projects including Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and London’s Battersea Power Station.

Funding to restore Guildhall

Government funding has been secured for the restoration of the historic Guildhall Theatre and Derby Theatre’s redevelopment project.

Sign-off of £20m of UK Government funding, which was put on hold when the General Election was called, has now been confirmed by the Ministry of Communities, Housing and Local Government.

Derby City Council, the University of Derby and Derby Theatre will work together to develop the plans for the two buildings.

Half of the funding will go towards bringing the Grade II listed Guildhall Theatre back into use, with further funding from the council’s capital budget. Opportunities for match funding are also being explored.

Council leader Cllr Nadine Peatfield said: “It is fantastic news that this much-needed funding has been secured for our city. Now we can look towards restoring one of our historic buildings and create more space for

community-led arts groups to perform right in the city’s cultural heart.”

The other half of the funding will go towards a new accessible and flexible studio theatre next to Derby Theatre. There will also be a new learning and research hub for undergraduate and postgraduate students to study theatre in a professional setting and give more space to Derby Theatre’s community programme.

Nottingham railway station

Derby station

Guildhall Theatre

EMR Class 360 fleet operates the Luton Airport Express service

East Midlands Airport and Gateway Industrial Cluster

strategy Setting a for success

By Sophie Blaken (pictured), marketing director, webdna Ltd.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, it’s tempting to dive straight into marketing – running ads and launching campaigns without a plan. The allure of quick wins is strong, but this approach often results in wasted time, effort and money. Without a solid strategy, even well-intentioned marketing efforts can fall flat. This is where a well-crafted marketing strategy becomes essential.

GETTING YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW

An effective marketing strategy is more than just a plan –it’s a roadmap that guides your business towards achieving its goals. Rather than juggling scattered ideas, a strategy consolidates everything into a single, actionable playbook. This clarity and direction allow your team to focus on what truly matters, ensuring everyone works towards common goals.

Creating a marketing strategy forces you to think deeply about what is crucial for your business. It’s not about doing things for the sake of it; it’s about identifying what’s essential and focusing your efforts there. A strategy also helps clearly define both your marketing and broader business objectives. By understanding how your marketing efforts support your overall business goals, every action taken contributes to your company’s success. In essence, a marketing strategy is your blueprint for sustained growth and efficiency.

THE PERFECT APPROACH?

Over the years, through continual learning and improvements, we’ve developed a clear approach. Here are six steps to developing and implementing a successful marketing strategy:

Step 1: Discovery

Immerse yourself in a comprehensive discovery process. Understand your business inside and out by defining your goals and marketing objectives. I have sat in many discovery meetings where one director discovers they have a completely different objective than another. Had they started marketing without aligning they would have inevitably failed.

Take a good look at your industry, competitors and market trends. Who is doing well? What can you learn from them? Conduct a detailed audit of your existing activities to evaluate how well your current marketing is working. Make sure you involve the right people at the start of your discovery, it can save you a lot of time and effort further down the line.

Step 2: Strategy development

Using the insights from the discovery phase develop your marketing strategy. Set clear marketing goals aligned with your business objectives. Create a messaging matrix for key audience messages, develop audience profiles, define your SEO strategy and outline a content

strategy. Your strategy should cover short, medium and long-term goals for sustained success.

Step 3: Marketing setup

Before launching any campaign, set up your tracking and define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success effectively. Now is also the time to set up the necessary tools and infrastructure. This might include configuring email marketing software, social media management tools and other platforms. Create templates for consistency across channels.

Step 4: Implementation

You are now ready to launch your marketing campaigns. Execute the campaigns designed in your strategy, whether social media marketing, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising or content marketing. Monitor each campaign closely, making adjustments to optimise performance. Continue to refine content to engage your audience and meet SEO objectives.

Step 5: Measurement and review

Finally, regularly monitor the performance of your website, SEO efforts, PPC campaigns, social media marketing and content marketing. What is working, what isn’t? Use what you have learned to adjust your focus and spend.

Step 6: Continuous improvement

Marketing is not a one-time activity. Continuous improvement is crucial to staying ahead in a competitive market. Regularly review campaign performance, identify areas to improve ROI, and test different aspects of your marketing. Refine strategies to enhance effectiveness, whether through tweaking messaging, adjusting targeting or revising content strategy.

Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your approach or overhaul it completely, our six-step process ensures your marketing delivers real, measurable results. It's a small upfront investment of time that can pay dividends for years to come.

‘Creating a marketing strategy forces you to think deeply about what is crucial for your business’

Inclusive creative technologies - A path to innovation and accessibility

IBy Ann Fomukong-Boden (pictured), managing director of Kakou Technologies.

n today’s digital age, ensuring that technology is accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, is not just a matter of fairness – it’s a driver of innovation and business growth. Inclusivity has become essential as businesses, creators, and consumers are more connected than ever before.

Inclusive technologies drive innovation, enhance business outcomes and foster positive social impact. Here’s why inclusive technologies matter and how businesses can incorporate them into their digital strategies.

WHY INCLUSIVITY MATTERS IN DIGITAL MEDIA

Inclusivity is, first and foremost, about fairness. The World Health Organization estimates that 15% of the global population lives with some form of disability. Many people face barriers to digital content because designs often overlook their needs – whether it’s websites incompatible with screen readers, videos lacking subtitles or apps requiring fine motor skills.

Beyond ethical considerations, inclusivity offers business advantages. Research shows accessible design broadens your reach, enabling more users to interact with your products or services. By making platforms accessible, you build customer loyalty and increase engagement. Businesses that prioritise inclusivity often cultivate innovation, finding creative solutions to serve diverse audiences.

BUILDING INCLUSIVITY INTO YOUR DIGITAL MEDIA

To create genuinely inclusive digital media, accessibility must be integrated from the outset. Here are key strategies to guide your approach:

1. Understand your audience’s needs

Start by recognising your audience’s diverse requirements. Do users rely on assistive technologies like screen readers or voice commands? Are captions needed for video content? Conduct user research focused on different needs, including disabilities, age and language barriers. Empathy plays a crucial role in inclusive design. Understanding the daily challenges faced by users with varying abilities enables you to design more user-friendly solutions that cater to all.

2. Adopt accessibility standards

Once you have insight into your audience’s needs, ensure your digital platforms meet accessibility standards. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a solid framework for accessible website and service design. For example, ensure that your website includes alternative text for images, use headings suitable for screen

readers and offer keyboard navigation options. Videos should have captions, and you may consider audio descriptions. These small adjustments significantly enhance who can engage with your content.

3. Invest in assistive technologies

Assistive technologies are essential to making digital media accessible. Tools like voice recognition software, real-time transcription and accessible video players can drastically improve user experiences.

AI-powered tools that automatically generate captions or convert text to speech are increasingly available. Incorporating features like voice commands, gesture-based controls and easy-to-read fonts makes your services more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience.

4. Create inclusive content

Inclusivity extends beyond technology – it includes the content you create. Be mindful of language, representation and accessibility features. Ensure people with disabilities are represented in the media you produce. Avoid complex language and aim for clarity to prevent alienating users.

Using symbols or graphics to enhance comprehension benefits not only individuals with cognitive disabilities but also non-native speakers and those with lower literacy levels.

THE BUSINESS CASE FOR INCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGIES

Adopting inclusive technologies is not just an ethical responsibility – it’s a smart business decision. Accessible platforms improve user experiences, increase engagement and expand your market. With regulations like the UK’s Equality Act 2010 and rising expectations around Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), businesses that neglect accessibility risk legal and reputational damage.

Inclusivity also drives innovation. By challenging teams to rethink design and delivery, companies encourage creativity and problem-solving. At Kakou Technologies, incorporating inclusivity into our product development has led to innovative solutions that benefit everyone, not just people with disabilities.

Inclusive technologies go beyond compliance – they unlock new potential and extend your reach. By creating accessible digital media services, you open up business opportunities and contribute to a more equitable society. As more companies adopt inclusive strategies, the digital landscape will become more innovative and better suited to meet diverse needs.

Incorporating inclusivity into your digital strategy is not just a challenge – it’s an invitation to make a lasting, positive impact. Let’s seize the opportunity.

‘At Kakou Technologies, incorporating inclusivity into our product development has led to innovative solutions that benefit everyone, not just people with disabilities’

Energy is the theme of this month’s Business Network and over the next six pages we look at a range of projects and businesses that reflect how the region is embracing the challenges of powering the future.

Closure opens door to a greener future

The closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station is an opportunity for the region to continue to lead on Green Growth, but government support is needed.

The site ceased producing energy on 30 September – ending more than 140 years of coal-fired generation in the UK. Decommissioning is now under way and is expected to last around two years, before the site is handed over to a demolition contractor. Demolition for a site like Ratcliffe will typically take about four years from start to finish.

The move marks the end of an era for one of the region’s most distinctive landmarks which produced enough electricity to power two million homes and which, since it was built in 1966, has made enough energy to heat up more than 21 trillion cups of tea.

The countdown to Ratcliffe’s closure began in 2015 when the Government announced plans to end UK coal power generation over the subsequent decade, finally confirming the autumn 2024 end date in 2020. Operator Uniper employed 170 people at the site which has been earmarked for redevelopment as a zero-carbon technology and energy hub for the East Midlands.

Uniper chief executive Michael Lewis said: “This will be the first time since 1882 that coal has not powered Great Britain. As we close this chapter, we honour Ratcliffe’s legacy and the people working here, while embracing the future of cleaner and flexible energy.

Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station in 1966

Credit: Uniper

“In this context, Uniper aims to invest in technologies like CCS (carbon capture and storage), renewables and hydrogen.

“The goal is to decarbonise our remaining power assets and to deliver low carbon fuel as well as green and reliable energy to our customers."

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said it was now essential for the Government to prioritise backing low carbon projects such as solar wind, and small modular

nuclear reactors – and provide support for energy storage and grid modernisation.

He said Net Zero initiatives also need to be properly incentivised so that the East Midlands can be firmly established as a leader in clean energy.

He said: “Having powered millions of East Midlands homes for nearly six decades, the steam from Ratcliffe-on-Soar’s towers is a familiar site, whether you fly into East Midlands Airport or drive along the M1, but the continued transition toward reduced greener energy cannot wait. Reduced carbon emissions and more sustainable energy production take us closer toward reaching Net Zero, will boost employment and the economy through green growth.

“The East Midlands has development projects under way looking at nuclear fusion, nuclear fission and hydrogen – we have the UK’s only inland Freeport and extensive research is carried out at the region’s universities into future energy technology, but support from the new government is needed.”

Claire Ward, elected mayor of the East

‘We honour Ratcliffe’s legacy and the people working here, while embracing the future of cleaner and flexible energy’

Ratcliffe-on-Soar ceased production on 30 September Credit: Uniper

Midlands Combined County Authority, said the closure was a “critical turning point” in the region’s history, as it moved away from coal towards green energy sources.

She said: “The East Midlands has always been an industrial heartland. Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire were once synonymous with coal mining – fuelling our nation’s power and prosperity.

“Today, we take that same spirit of industry and innovation and turn it toward a new goal – becoming a green energy superpower.

“Through bold action and a commitment to Net Zero, the East Midlands will help lead the fight against the global climate crisis.

“At the East Midlands Combined County Authority, we’ve made a clear commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning our local ambitions with the UK’s national target.

“Our approach goes beyond reducing emissions; it’s about creating a region that is cleaner, more sustainable, and prosperous for all who live and work here.

“We will create new jobs, protect and enhance our green spaces, and ensure that our homes and infrastructure are futureproofed for a changing climate.

“Through devolved funding we will support our Net Zero goals by building new low-carbon homes, retrofitting existing properties to improve energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy sources like solar and wind, and expand the capacity of our electricity network.

“Together, these initiatives will not only reduce carbon emissions but will also deliver high-quality, energy-efficient housing and improve the lives of our residents.”

DERBY TOYOTA PLANT TO HOST ENERGY SUMMIT

The British manufacturing headquarters of one of the world’s biggest car builders will be the setting for the Midlands Energy Summit 2024 this autumn.

The Chamber event, held in partnership with the University of Nottingham’s Energy Institute and East Midlands Freeport, will take place at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Burnaston, Derby, from 9am to 1.30pm on Thursday, 28 November.

The huge factory should be the ideal setting for an event highlighting how businesses, academia and policy makers can come together to make sure that clean growth underpins our future economic landscape.

Toyota is a prime example of a large-scale manufacturer looking at new ways to streamline energy usage and has been supporting regional businesses to reduce their energy usage through ‘Energy Workshops’ held in partnership with the Chamber through the Sustainability Accelerator programme.

To meet the changing nature of the world’s energy needs, the global Toyota business is developing new technologies including resource-efficient, long-life batteries and ways to reuse batteries from end-of-life electric vehicles. It is also working on portable hydrogen cartridges using experience gained designing its fuel cell electric vehicles.

The 2024 Energy Summit Energy Summit will draw on the exemplar the work going on here, building on the region’s potential to lead the development of future energy provision, storage and distribution, with cutting edge developments in energy creation through sources such as fission, fusion and hydrogen.

On the day we will also hear from RollsRoyce plc, which is using its decades of specialism in nuclear power plants to design

and build small-scale nuclear reactors which could be able to deliver scalable net zero power for applications ranging from grid and industrial electricity production to hydrogen and synthetic fuel manufacturing.

The appeal of micro-nuclear reactors is that they will be relatively small and lightweight compared to other sources of power, and provide continuous energy regardless of location, sunlight or environmental conditions. Rolls-Royce is also backing the University of Derby’s Nuclear Skills Academy – the first of its kind, which was set up to teach nuclear skills for the UK’s submarines programme.

Meanwhile, East Midlands Freeport is investing more than £2m in the Future Energy Skills Hub, a project led by the East Midlands Institute of Technology. It is promoting high quality technical training and qualifications through a partnership involving Derby College Group, Loughborough College, the University of Derby, Loughborough University and its business partners.

‘New energy technology was identified in the Chamber’s “Manifesto for Growth 2024” as “The Big Opportunity” for the region’

New energy technology was identified in the Chamber’s Manifesto for Growth 2024 as “The Big Opportunity” for the region. The East Midlands can help develop the future of energy production, storage and provision. The November summit will explore what strengths the region has in this respect – and the key role of regional businesses.

Guest speakers will include Freeport chief executive Tom Newman-Taylor, Prof Mark Gillott and Prof Lucelia Rodrigues from the University of Nottingham, Nick King of HyDEX and Mike Crawforth of Rolls-Royce. There will also be panel discussions on issues such as clean energy skills and what needs to be done to upgrade the UK energy system.

Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available at this event which is open to all businesses and free to attend – for details visit: is.gd/JKcIL2

The Toyota bZ4X electric SUV

A Corolla at Toyota Burnaston

Powerful case for localised pricing

The boss of one of Britain’s biggest energy suppliers is calling for market reforms so that people living and working near wind and solar farms would pay less when the wind blows or the sun shines.

Octopus Energy chief executive Greg Jackson said localised pricing could pave the way for high-energy use businesses – such as data centres – to locate to areas where electricity is cheaper. He said it would also bring down overall prices by cutting waste.

Speaking at an event hosted by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, he said Octopus was helping pioneer the principle of lower bills for people living where green energy is abundant –offering some people living near turbines an electricity discount of 20% when it is windy, and 50% when it is really windy.

From a standing start in 2016, Octopus today supplies eight million customers in 18 countries with gas and green electricity, and operates a £7bn portfolio of green energy projects. It has a big presence in the East Midlands. The business believes regional pricing could cut at least £2bn from annual energy bills, with the potential to give areas with lots of renewable generation, such as Scotland, some of the cheapest electricity in Europe.

Octopus has previously suggested it could also encourage new businesses to move their operations to these areas, creating jobs and helping the economy, with companies using regional pricing making a “99% reduction” if they switched their energy use to the cheapest, greenest times across the day.

Greg Jackson was a guest at the institute during a discussion on Net Zero which heard that the UK currently produced around 1% of global emissions – a figure which is finally falling. He said: “Our electricity system was designed around coal and it didn’t really matter when you used it. But if I say to people “if you use your electricity when it’s sunny it will be five times cheaper than fossil fuels” it’s amazing how much

US NUCLEAR GIANT SENT TO COVENTRY

Nuclear and solar energy innovator Holtec Britain has struck a deal to work with engineers and scientists at the UK’s Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry to help it build and test its small modular reactor (SMR).

The American nuclear giant is investing heavily into the UK industrial ecosystem, having been active here for more than 15 years, working across EDF reactors.

Under its latest plans, the UK will be its hub for exports to the Middle East and North Africa markets. The deal will see the MTC and Holtec Britain combine their expertise to find the best manufacturing processes for Holtec’s PWR

‘26,000 communities have now reached out to us, asking us to build windfarms locally’

more people use at those times – and how much less they use at others. It’s the same with wind.

“At the same time that we are seeing these advances in generation, so we see advances in things such as transport and heating. An electric vehicle battery holds enough power to power a house for two, three or four days. A typical range may be 300 miles and a typical UK commute is nine miles, so we’ve got incredible flexibility about when we fill those car batteries.

“And it’s automated, so today 170,000 people in the UK get home, plug in their electric car and just charge it at the best possible time. In return they pay around £2.40 for a hundred miles of motoring. With diesel that will be £16. It is seven times

cheaper to drive an electric car than it is to drive a petrol or diesel in the UK.

“If we think about using the system wisely –charging those batteries when it’s windy or sunny or when the interconnectors are flooding over from France – if we see those technology changes not as a challenge but as an opportunity to drive down costs, we can finally align the short-term interests of citizens and businesses with the long-term interests of the planet.”

He said offering customers living near its wind turbines a discount when the wind blows had various upsides. He said: “The magic of this is that first of all people use more electricity at the times it’s generating. Secondly, communities want windfarms when you do this. 26,000 communities

How

a small modular reactor might look Credit: Holtec

Wind turbines in Knowl Hill, Rochdale

have now reached out to us, asking us to build windfarms locally. That’s just in the UK – we’re now launching this in five other countries.

“The third thing about it is the more we use locally generated electricity, the longer we can hold off, or even avoid, building new transmission lines, because we don’t need to ship it around as much. At the moment there are no market mechanisms to deliver this. In the UK the electricity price is the same – whether you are in Scotland and all the windfarms are turning, or you’re in Slough where there’s so little electricity you can’t build data centres.

“This is crazy. We need a real reform of markets so that when it’s windy in Scotland we don’t pay the windfarms to turn off, instead we

SMR-300 – from proof of concept to final installation, training and support after project completion.

SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors that can produce about a third of the generating capacity – about 300 Megawatt electric (MWe) – of traditional nuclear power reactors.

Holtec’s project team already includes UK construction giants Balfour Beatty, Mitsubishi Electric, UK engineering consultants Mott McDonald and Hyundai E&C – a South Korean construction company which has delivered 18 nuclear plants in its homeland.

Andrew Bowfield, senior business development manager at MTC, said: “Nextgeneration civil nuclear power provides a golden opportunity for the UK to secure a strategic advantage in a global marketplace.

“But developing new manufacturing

give Scottish people cheap or free electricity at those times. And we can see that the shortage of electricity in the other regions means we will build batteries in the South East – it will give us the investment signals.

“It’s absolutely outrageous that one-third of the time the interconnectors between the UK and other countries are flowing the wrong way. So, at the times when we’re turning off the windfarms in Scotland, we are importing electricity from Norway into Scotland because we’ve got screwy pricing.

“The most innovative thing we need to do now is to create much more dynamic pricing at the back end – we can wrap this into incredibly compelling products for consumers.”

capabilities is vital so that nascent technologies, such as SMRs, can be commercialised and deliver the efficiencies promised.

“Through our partnership with Holtec, not only will we deliver the innovations needed by one company, but also support end-to-end supply chain development to help anchor this growth sector in the UK.”

In December last year Holtec was awarded £30m from the UK’s Future Nuclear Enabling Fund to progress its pressurised water reactor SMR design through the UK ‘Generic Design Assessment’ process.

Holtec’s UK investment is set at £1.8bn, including building a £1.5bn UK SMR factory estimated to generate 3,000 engineering jobs over the next 20 years, generating £1.5bn in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the economy.

TOP TIPS TO REDUCE ENERGY USAGE

Nottingham-based Yu Energy offers energy saving tips to help cut energy use in commercial buildings – from getting to know your energy better to investing in sustainable change.

As part of the UK’s Net Zero target, the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) standard for commercial buildings is changing. By 2027, the EPC standard is being raised to category C, and is expected to rise again by 2030.

However, in 2023, 30,000 commercial buildings were rated D-G for efficiency – more than a quarter of non-domestic buildings –and only 0.26% were rated band A.

This means many of the UK’s commercial buildings have a long way to go to achieve good levels of energy efficiency.

Reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings can not only help your business reach Net Zero goals and reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also boost your business in other ways. By making small changes to your building and the way you use energy, you can cut your costs, and invest this money back into your business.

According to a study by The Round Up, 84% of customers say that poor environmental practices will alienate them from a brand or company. Embracing a greener business mentality, from making commercial energy savings to reviewing the sustainability of your supply chain, can help build a positive reputation for your business. Unfortunately, energy waste and overconsumption are commonplace, especially in commercial properties, with older buildings and appliances being the main culprits. Factors such as poor ventilation or insulation can mean that your heating and cooling systems are working harder than they need to to keep your building at your desired temperature. Similarly, old or damaged appliances are notorious for wasting energy.

The first step towards reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings is to gain a deeper understanding of how you use your energy:

• Conduct an energy audit

• See how your business compares by asking the experts

• Manage your energy the smart way – a smart meter can give you greater insights into how you use your energy and identify areas where you can make changes.

Steps to optimise your energy use further.

• Stay on top of repairs

• Choose the right lighting – making use of natural lighting is the best way to avoid additional energy costs, however, swapping to LED lighting is a close second, using up to 90% less energy than fluorescent bulbs. Sensors can make sure lights turn off when not in use

• Choose the right appliances – It is important to check their energy efficiency rating

• Upgrade your windows

• Optimise your heating and cooling –Overheating your building by just 1 degree can increase the cost of your energy by 8%.

Octopus Energy chief executive Greg Jackson

Station’s closure ‘about the future not the past’

The closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station is a symbolic moment that will also herald a new start for cleaner energy.

As the 21st century’s defining technology, clean energy has a surprisingly long history in the East Midlands.

It was more than 250 years ago that Sir Richard Arkwright’s water-powered cotton mill at Cromford in Derbyshire set in motion a revolution in factory-based production that spread across the world.

Fast-forward to 2024 and a region still defined by manufacturing is in the midst of another landmark moment, with the closure of Ratcliffeon-Soar Power Station this month marking the end of 142 years of coal-fired electricity generation in the UK.

It’s hugely symbolic for the East Midlands, whose coal mines once helped power the nation. Yet the end of steam rising out of the historic cooling towers alongside the M1 is the start of a new era for Ratcliffe, not the end of its productive life. As one of the three major tax sites that form part of the East Midlands Freeport area, it has been earmarked for largescale investment in exactly the kind of clean energy technologies that the region’s businesses – and the UK as a whole – are going to need as they seek to reduce dependence on emissionsheavy fossil fuels and increase energy resilience.

‘We’re in the midst of an energy and technology revolution and Ratcliffe is arguably the most symbolic transformation opportunity in the UK’

“Ratcliffe-on-Soar’s closure is a story about the future, not the past,” says Tom Newman-Taylor, the former senior civil servant and excommercial projects lead at Association British Ports who is now CEO of the freeport.

“We’re in the midst of an energy and technology revolution and Ratcliffe is arguably the most symbolic transformation opportunity in the UK. It’s the place where we can bring to life the vision of a growing and innovative future powered by clean energy technologies.”

Led by site owner Uniper, the redevelopment of Ratcliffe-on-Soar will be a comprehensive, longterm project with multiple opportunities supported by its status as an established industrial location with a direct-to-grid connection.

Mr Newman-Taylor is clear that nationallysignificant opportunities are what the freeport is defined by and where the East Midlands as a region must be aiming if it is to make a contribution to the Government’s growth ambitions. He said: “We know that the region has ground to make up in terms of investment,

growth and raising skills levels. The energy transition is also having a significant impact on our industrial base, which is energy-intensive and technology-driven. The way we respond should be ambitious on a generational scale.”

East Midlands Freeport styles itself as the biggest growth opportunity in the region, with the potential to create 28,000 jobs and add a whopping £9bn to the value of the regional economy during its lifetime. Newman-Taylor is adamant that the tax status of its sites is incidental to its bigger strategic objectives.

Aerospace Technology Centre, University of Nottingham

Credit: East Midlands Freeport

Maritime Rail Freight Interchange – EMAGIC North Site

Credit: East Midlands Freeport

The Ratcliffe-on-Soar site Credit: East Midlands Freeport

“We’re simply not a low-cost proposition,” he says. “We’re looking to attract inward investment from sectors aligned to the opportunities presented by our sites, industries that build on our strengths and offer the greatest potential to support government’s growth mission.

“That’s just the start. For that investment to deliver on its potential it must be supported by three things – the development of technologies that unlock clean energy opportunities, investment in skills so we have a workforce that is match-fit for a clean energy future, and upgrades to our infrastructure that enable the economy to expand sustainably.

“It’s not just incentives that inward investors are looking for. They want to know that the East Midlands has got the economic and technology infrastructure to help them succeed.”

East Midlands Freeport’s sites tell their own story of strategic industries. East Midlands Intermodal Park (EMIP) sits alongside Toyota’s UK motor manufacturing plant at Burnaston, where there are ambitions to bring in rail connectivity. East Midlands Airport and Gateway Industrial Cluster (EMAGIC) – one of the UK’s most important trade gateways – and Ratcliffe itself are also part of the plans.

As far as clean energy, skills and infrastructure are concerned, the freeport has put its money where its mouth is, with a series of investments from its £25m Seed Capital Fund.

The first was announced only a few weeks ago, with more than £2m of support for the Future Energy Skills Hub (FESH), a new venture led by the East Midlands Institute of Technology (IoT), which promotes high quality technical training and qualifications through a partnership involving Derby College Group, Loughborough College, the University of Derby, Loughborough University, and its business partners.

From September 2025, East Midlands IoT it will run FESH courses which provide higher technical skills tailored to the needs of businesses operating directly in advanced manufacturing and clean energy, but also for the increasing numbers of firms seeking to make a clean energy transition in their day-to-day work.

Technical courses currently offered by East Midlands IoT which will help FESH achieve its aims of developing a pipeline of future talent include a degree in sustainable engineering at Loughborough College, a master’s degree in renewable energy systems technology at Loughborough University, a degree in manufacturing engineering at Derby College, and a degree in artificial intelligence and data science at the University of Derby.

As the FESH project evolves, East Midlands Freeport’s partners and East Midlands IoT will work to develop additional short courses for rapid upskilling and embed sustainable and green energy skills in all existing technical qualifications to provide the skills needed by businesses.

Rachel Quinn, executive director of the East Midlands Institute of Technology, said: “East Midlands Freeport has made a significant and welcome investment to develop the technical skills needed by the region’s clean energy businesses.

“With the expertise of the East Midlands IoT’s academic partners and the business know-how of its corporate partners, we will help a new

generation of highly-skilled students into rewarding careers, which will boost the local economy and drive decarbonisation in our region.”

The second part of the infrastructure equation is the transport network – how will the road network cope with the potential growth at both EMAGIC and Ratcliffe? This is where the freeport has made a further Seed Capital Investment, supporting Midlands Connect to produce a report on options for improving transport sustainability around Junction 24 of the M1 which will be presented to government.

Then there’s clean energy technologies. The theory is fine, but the practice is complex, with technology solutions identified by research now at the stage where they need to be tested at scale to turn them into market-ready products.

‘Our whole approach is to look at this in terms of the bigger picture – how can we secure inward investment from our key sectors while supporting them to reduce environmental impact’

So, the freeport has joined forces with the universities of Nottingham and Loughborough to develop a Zero Carbon Innovation Centre that will focus on moving solutions up the Technology Readiness Scale. Expected to launch next year, the centre’s focus will include heavy transport such as aviation, where weight-energy penalties mean battery electric power is less viable.

Katie Greenhalgh, who is the freeport’s head of green growth, said: “We are also examining the potential to invest in power infrastructure at our investment sites in a way that enables businesses to operate in a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly way.

“Our whole approach is to look at this in terms of the bigger picture – how can we secure inward investment from our key sectors while supporting them to reduce environmental impact and take advantage of new opportunities opened up by clean energy.”

The bigger picture for the freeport is global, national and regional. At a global level, its inward investment lead, Jon Rawcliffe, is targeting the USA and Germany as prime markets for investment from aerospace, automotive, advanced logistics and clean energy businesses. At a national level, the freeport’s scale means it is one of the most powerful levers the Government has to kickstart the kind of growth it needs to see from the UK’s regions if it is to get GDP back on to a strong upward trajectory.

EMAGIC North Site Credit: East Midlands Freeport

Tom Newman-Taylor, CEO EMF Credit: East Midlands Freeport

Katie Greenhalgh, EMF

Credit: East Midlands Freeport

How often do you review your HR policies, procedures and training needs?

Never

Every 2/3 years

Only when legislation changes

If that’s the case, then you might not be aware of new legislation coming into force. But don’t panic! Minakshee Patel, equality, diversity & inclusion specialist, MindSonar® professional and organisational development coach, is here to help you stay compliant.

Minakshee Patel Consultancy offers an equality audit service, where they visit your organisation and undertake a review of your current policies, procedures and training needs.

The end report you receive will highlight whether the policies and procedures are compliant and meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010.

If the policies and procedures are not compliant, recommended actions will be identified for the business to undertake to ensure they are compliant. The report will also identify any training needs for the business, to

enable them to action the recommendations.

If you only review your policies, procedures and training needs when legislation changes, are you aware that the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 comes into force on 26 October 2024?

Are you ready? Have your business’ policies and procedures been amended to incorporate these changes? Has your business commissioned training for your staff so that they are aware of these changes and how they relate to them while they are at work?

If the answer is no, then get in touch to see how Minakshee Patel Consultancy can support your business to be compliant.

Creating workplaces where everyone feels welcome

When it comes to business training I firmly believe that one size does not fit all. Any training needs to take account of the type of business and the industry, so that staff understand how everything fits together.

AVOID COSTLY RECRUITMENT

MISTAKES AND BUILD YOUR BEST TEAM YET

With decades of experience in Equality, Diversion and Inclusion (EDI) and the most accurate psychometric profiling there is, I want to show you that people are never the problem. It’s the way you relate to each other that counts.

I offer one-to-one and group training for directors, managers, individuals or small teams.

First of all, I’ll get together with you to understand exactly what you need before tailoring your bespoke training session. We’ll then agree on the time, place and approach for delivery that will suit you best.

IT’S THE WAY YOU RELATE TO EACH OTHER THAT COUNTS

Have you ever wondered how to recruit the right person or wished your team could understand and adapt to one another better? Perhaps you’re feeling that what started out as workplace banter no longer has its place?

I’m passionate about EDI. I’ve helped all kinds of local businesses, councils, the NHS and even the fire service to see that when you get relationships right, teams thrive.

When the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 comes into force, employers will be required to comply with a new duty to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their employees

As a young Asian girl growing up in the 60s, I saw that the world wasn’t always fair. Supported by my family, I was encouraged to challenge, but gently. Others have called this “soft but strong”, an approach that has helped me to engage others, open conversations and bring people together with incredible effect.

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

The UK is rich in cultural diversity – and that means our workplaces are too. With the Equality Act 2010 as our guide, I can help you to understand different types of discrimination and put all the practical steps in place to create a fair and respectful workplace with a workforce who are highly motivated to want to work for you.

Working with businesses like yourself, I have created more inclusive and diverse workplaces where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of cultural diversity and differences.

I have enabled companies to have a clear policy on EDI, outlining their commitment to these values and setting out the steps they will take to promote them and a training programme - helping employees understand the importance of these values and how to put them into practice.

WORK WITH ME

I offer a variety of services to meet your specific needs. Together we will develop the right systems and solutions for you, your employees, and your business. My goal is that everyone has a voice, is confident to be themselves, listens to others and so are able to reach their full potential.

MY TRAINING IN ACTION

I am currently working with an organisation who wanted to train their staff on the topic of EDI and human rights legislation so that they have an understanding of the legislation and how it relates to the business and their working practices. This session will be run later in the year so keep an eye out for updates in this publication.

On 25 July, I presented at a business network meeting, in which I outlined many of the principles and approaches covered in this article.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your personal or professional or business development, call me to discuss how I can help your business grow and thrive.

Tel: 07831 634896 Email: minakshee@minaksheepatel.co.uk Visit: www.minaksheepatel.co.uk

Photo courtesy of Pete Martin Photography

Family value

A guide to family investment companies by Nicola Goldsmith (pictured), director, Haines Watts Tax Advisory.

In the ever-evolving financial landscape, families seeking to manage and grow their wealth across generations are increasingly turning to Family Investment Companies (FICs). These private limited companies offer a structured and tax-efficient way to handle family assets, ensuring both control and flexibility. This article delves into the key benefits and considerations of FICs, providing valuable insights for those considering this approach.

WHAT ARE FICS?

FICs are private limited companies established to manage and grow family wealth. They are particularly popular among high-net-worth families looking to pass on assets while retaining control over investment decisions. FICs are structured to provide tax efficiency, flexibility and longterm financial stability.

KEY BENEFITS OF FICS

1. Tax efficiency: One of the primary advantages of FICs is their ability to minimise inheritance tax and capital gains tax liabilities. By transferring assets into an FIC, families can reduce the tax burden on future generations, preserving more wealth within the family.

2.Control: Founders of FICs can retain significant control over the company’s assets and investment decisions. This ensures that the family’s wealth is managed according to their vision and values, providing peace of mind and continuity.

3.Flexibility: FICs offer flexibility through different share classes, allowing for tailored distribution of income and capital among family members. This can accommodate diverse financial needs and goals within the family, making it easier to manage varying interests.

4. Succession planning: FICs facilitate the smooth transfer of wealth across generations. By structuring the company to include younger family members, founders can ensure a seamless transition of control and ownership, promoting long-term financial stability.

SETTING UP AN FIC

Establishing an FIC requires careful planning and expertise. It’s crucial to work with specialists who understand the intricacies of tax law and family dynamics. Key steps include:

• Incorporation: Registering the company and drafting the necessary legal documents.

• Share Structure: Designing a share structure that aligns with the family’s goals and provides the desired level of control and flexibility.

• Asset Transfer: Transferring assets into the FIC in a taxefficient manner.

• Governance: Establishing governance structures to manage the company’s operations and decision-making processes.

EXPERT ADVICE

When setting up a FIC, it’s essential to consult with tax professionals and legal advisors who can tailor the structure to your family’s unique circumstances. Regular reviews and audits can help ensure compliance with evolving regulations and optimise the company’s performance.

AUTUMN STATEMENT PREDICTIONS AND THEIR IMPACT ON FICS

As we anticipate the upcoming Autumn Statement, several predictions could impact Family Investment Companies. Expected changes include adjustments to tax rates and allowances, which may affect the tax efficiency of FICs. For instance, potential increases in capital gains tax or changes to inheritance tax thresholds could influence how families plan their wealth transfers.

Of course, by the time this article is published, we will have heard the Autumn Statement, and it will be crucial to seek expert advice to ensure you are able to deal with the budget changes ahead.

Navigating the complexities of financial management and regulatory compliance requires expertise and proactive planning. By understanding the benefits of FICs and staying informed about recent tax changes, you can make strategic decisions that optimise your wealth management and business operations.

‘By transferring assets into an FIC, families can reduce the tax burden on future generations, preserving more wealth within the family’

Family Investment Companies provide a tax efficient way to handle family business assets

CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT

BEACON TOOLKIT

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Don’t gamble with your cyber insurance

breach which disrupted many of its services like blood testing and diagnostics. While NHS England works to consider how best to provide ‘income protection’ for practices, the need for robust cyber insurance cover has become an absolute necessity for businesses everywhere. Here, Mike Dickinson (pictured, inset), managing director of chartered insurance broker Russell Scanlan, outlines the high stakes involved with cybercrime when it comes to insurance.

To protect your home and valuables, you might install a high-tech alarm system, with cutting-edge CCTV cameras and a whole host of other gadgets to catch a burglar or intruder in the act.

You could also spend some time finding the right insurance policy, which covers your home and valuables, to help in the financial recovery following an incident in your home. While the same process should apply to cybersecurity, many businesses are finding that they don’t have adequate cover when they need to make a claim.

The costs associated with data breaches can be high for multiple reasons. Firstly, if your business is hit with a ransomware attack, you may have to resort to paying a sum of money up front to regain control of your data. Secondly, the cost of responding to an attack is also high. Businesses will often need to fund legal and IT forensics teams, offer customer gestures to mitigate permanent reputational damage, and foot the bill for business interruption costs. So, while an effective insurance policy isn’t necessarily a defence against cybercrime, it is the best form of asset protection to aid in business recovery.

It’s our view that financial recovery following a data breach boils down to two things: your level of insurance cover and the services available from your insurance provider. This is where choosing to work with a chartered insurance broker might provide you with more financial reassurance.

Chartered insurance brokers are proactive in their outlook to cyber-security by paying close attention to detailed integrated cyber response services provided by insurers, as well as expected first and third party covers.

Furthermore, chartered brokers are well placed to point you in the direction of relevant technical forensic investigation and cyber incident management teams, who can provide the necessary legal advice. Most brokers will take a collaborative approach to providing a recovery solution, pairing their own expertise with that of their client to help secure a solution.

Finally, a streamlined claims process is also extremely important to a business. Insurance claims often involve a lot of administration and, in a worst-case scenario, business interruption with financial ramifications. Should you need to make a claim, insurance brokers will often have dedicated claims handling and management teams to ensure the underwriter makes good on the promise to pay. Russell Scanlan, for example, has a claims team to organise meetings with insurers and work with third-party incident management teams to ensure the claims experience runs smoothly.

In an age where technology is developing at an increasingly fast rate, and gaps in cyber-security are becoming ever more exposed, gambling your assets with inadequate cyber insurance could lead to lengthy and costly recoveries.

‘Chartered

brokers are well placed to point you in the direction of relevant technical forensic investigation’

Consultancy adds brand-new service

Loughborough content marketing consultancy

LikeMind Media has launched a new service to make it easier for clients to build brand-awareness.

The business has developed a product called JourneyWeb to support the creation of bespoke content to help meet its clients’ overall marketing objectives.

The process starts with an indepth discussion to determine who the client is, their goals and KPIs and to identify gaps in their marketing strategy. Then the LikeMind Media team conducts research into the areas such as the market, competitors and audience.

With that information, the team can use its mapping tool to present a strategy including social media, video, podcasts, blogs and web copy.

LikeMind Media chief executive Paul Ince said: “The feedback so far has been amazing. What JourneyWeb provides is a methodology that understands a potential customer’s journey, based on what the business or organisation already knows.”

Video experts relaunch after major restructure

Video and photography firm ‘AV IT! Media is relaunching as a content creation company after an ownership restructure and the appointment of three new members of staff.

The firm, which is based in Derby, has been taken over by co-owner Mark Averill and his partner Jenny Hudson, who have bought out former partner Ash Stanley.

‘With

full ownership, Jenny and I can move forward with a unified

vision’

Jenny, who has been the company secretary and has played a pivotal role in managing the business since its inception six years ago, will now be stepping into the role of director.

The move has coincided with the appointment of three new recruits, including Georgia Unwin who will provide social media support to clients and help with ‘AV IT!’s own marketing and communication, along with storyboarding for video shoots.

Andy Brailsford, an experienced photographer, will be responsible for managing the automotive photography arm of the business as well as provide support at events. Experienced videographer and editor Louis Greatorex completes the team, following the completion of successful campaigns with both Derby Museums and Aston Villa Football Club.

Mark said: “With full ownership, Jenny and I can move forward with a unified vision, invest in new technologies, and expand our services to meet the growing needs of our clients.”

Ad agency offers ‘no win, no fee’ deal

A digital marketing agency which reported record revenue for its e-commerce clients on Black Friday 2023 has launched a new offer for this year.

The team at Alphageek Digital, based in Friar Gate, Derby, said they were so confident of the success of their 2024 Black Friday campaigns that customers will not have to pay if the work fails to generate a profit.

The “no win, no fee” offer means clients can maximise the opportunities of the busiest shopping season of the year, with zero financial risk.

The agency, which is run by young entrepreneurs Art Lindop, Alex Mills and Kieran Flynn, has a track record on Black Friday promotions.

Last year it helped bring in revenue of more than £1.5m across ten of its clients, generating almost 800,000 engagements, nearly 195,000

Alphageek

‘We have a proven track record in paid advertising and so we’re happy to remove the financial risk’

clicks and more than 6,000 leads.

Managing director Art Lindop said: “With competition at an all-time high during Black Friday, which lasts for most of November, ecommerce brands are seeking every possible edge to stand out.

“We have a proven track record in paid advertising and so we’re happy to remove the financial risk, providing clients with cutting-edge strategies while ensuring measurable return on investment.”

With years of experience in helping ecommerce businesses scale up during major sales events, Alphageek has built a reputation for providing data-driven marketing tailored to each client's unique audience.

The firm has worked with a host of international companies including Casio GSHOCK, Little Caesars Pizza, the NHS, Porsche and Red Bull.

'AV IT! Media team members Georgia Unwin, Louis Greatorex, Mark Averill, Jenny Hudson, Andy Brailsford

Paul Ince

founders (from left) Art Lindop, Alex Mills and Kieran Flynn

PFI can boost infrastructure

Management at Browne Jacobson are calling on the Government to come up with a new public-private partnership model to finance new roads, railways, prisons, schools and hospitals – potentially including non-profit and mutual investment models.

The Nottingham-based law firm hosted a recent roundtable with the CBI, where business leaders discussed factors such as skills supply, long-term policy certainty and positive messaging about future outlook, which could all help build confidence in public infrastructure investment.

Between 1992 and 2018, more than 700 schemes were completed under the private finance initiative (PFI). A company would fund upfront costs of a construction project and then recoup the capital, as well as operational costs, through long-term repayments from the procuring authority – typically an NHS trust, local authority or government department.

PFI received criticism due to issues including

accusations of poor value for the taxpayer and windfalls for investors that refinanced debt at lower rates following the riskier construction phase.

‘If

the new government is serious about its mantra to ‘get Britain building again’, it must identify a new private finance model’

Some raised concerns about the long-term debts PFI repayments leave for government departments and councils.

Craig Elder, a partner at Browne Jacobson who has worked on some of the UK’s highestvalue PFI projects, said: “While there’s a negative perception around PFI, the fact is it was pivotal in successive Conservative and Labour governments building vital public infrastructure.

New structure boost for regional solicitors

Rothera Bray has converted to an alternative business structure (ABS) following approval from the Solicitors Regulation Authority, which management said would give them greater flexibility in how they operate.

To coincide with the move, five key team members have been promoted into director roles: HR director Sarah Poole; business development and marketing director Marie Walls; IT director Robin Davies; finance director Philipa Roberts and operations and innovation director Tony Woodward. The business recently reported

its most successful financial year to date, and has grown to almost 250 employees. Despite becoming an ABS the firm remains an LLP (limited liability partnership).

Chief executive Christina Yardley said: “This conversion strengthens our management structure by bringing a broader range of talent and expertise to our leadership team.

“By embracing the flexibility of an ABS, we are able to diversify our operations and ensure that we can respond to the evolving needs of our clients with greater commercial acumen and technical expertise.”

“In the absence of any replacement, we are now falling behind other major economies in delivering infrastructure, with the assets we do build being both the most expensive and delayed in the G7.

“Therefore, if the new government is serious about its mantra to ‘get Britain building again’, it must identify a new private finance model that learns from the mistakes of its predecessor to ensure the public purse receives better value and control while remaining attractive to the private sector.

“Alternative models are emerging and worthy of further exploration. In particular, the Future Governance Forum’s recent proposal for infrastructure investment partnerships takes lessons from the non-profit distributing model deployed in Scotland and mutual investment model in Wales to place a greater emphasis on community benefits in any project, cultivates a culture of long-term collaboration and gives local areas more control over their infrastructure.”

Freeths insolvency team going strong

The insolvency and restructuring team at Freeths has been listed as the highest performing by volume at the half-year mark.

Freeths was listed top last year with 365 insolvency filings for 2023 and is already on track to surpass that figure with 194 filings recorded in the first six months of 2024.

Joey Byrne (pictured), national head of insolvency and restructuring at Freeths, said: “These results reflect the ongoing strengthening of talent, sector knowledge and breadth of experience across our national restructuring and insolvency and creditor services offerings.

“I would like to thank our clients for their continued support and remain committed to providing the best service we can.”

Browne Jacobson partners Peter Ware (left) and Craig Elder (second right) with (L-R) the CBI’s Nikki Paterson, Rain Newton-Smith and Mark Goldstone

Accountants need to find a balance with AI

Former Dragons’ Den investor and Champions (UK) plc AI and technology leader Piers Linney (pictured) has called upon accountancy firms to embrace and ready themselves for crucial automation changes.

AI is revolutionising the accountancy profession. It’s automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks such as data entry, reconciliation, and basic financial analysis.

This shift is significantly reducing the need for entry-level positions traditionally focused on these tasks.

However, as AI takes over routine work, the role of accountants is evolving. To stay relevant, accountants must now pivot towards areas that

‘As AI takes over routine work, the role of accountants is evolving’

require human expertise, such as strategic decision-making, client advisory services, and managing complex financial scenarios.

These are traditionally tasks where human judgment, creativity, and nuanced understanding are indispensable. Embracing these new roles will be crucial for accountants as our future becomes more AI-driven.

Accountancy has experienced significant benefits from the rise of AI, especially by automating routine tasks which is freeing up

accountants for higher-value work. It also improves accuracy by reducing human errors, which in-turn leads to more reliable financial reporting. AI’s advanced data analysis capabilities also provide deeper insights, which I’ve seen help accountants massively in making more informed decisions.

Centrica buys LDC’s stake in ENSEK

Private equity investor LDC has exited its investment in ENSEK – a Nottingham-based provider of digital transformation services in the energy sector – to Centrica.

The transaction had been subject to regulatory approvals and was completed this autumn. The financial details have not been disclosed.

Centrica’s acquisition builds on the strategic partnership agreed between the companies in August 2021.

LDC, which is part of Lloyds Banking Group, originally backed the management buyout of the business, led by chief executive Jon Slade, in 2017, providing capital to support its new product development and growth plans. LDC said the original investment had proved successful.

David Bains, partner and head of East Midlands & East of England at LDC, said: “We are proud to have been part of building such a successful business with impressive annual recurring revenues.”

I also believe a huge benefit to automation in accountancy is that it can process large volumes of data quickly, enabling faster turnaround times for financial tasks. It supports better compliance by automatically updating and applying the latest regulations and standards.

Of course, AI has presented the world of accountancy with a few risks that do need careful consideration.

One concern we see a lot is data security, as AI systems handle sensitive financial information, making them targets for cyberattacks if the correct measures aren’t put in place internally.

However, I believe the main risk that we’re currently seeing is models making mistakes such as hallucinations, where the system generates information that isn’t based on real data. This may be down to limitations or generalisations, but this is being developed out of the models over time.

Ethical issues also arise around bias in AI algorithms, which could lead to unfair treatment in financial decision-making.

FINANCE APPOINTMENTS

Midlands-based accounting and advisory firm PKF Smith Cooper has welcomed new audit manager Rachel Wales (pictured) to its growing team, marking the company’s 23rd audit hire this year.

Rachel began her career at a ‘top six’ accounting firm where she gained eight years’ experience and worked her way up from a trainee accountant to audit manager. She also experienced working on audits abroad during a short-term secondment in Perth, Australia in 2022.

Rachel has completed audits in different sectors including manufacturing, professional services, food and drink and retail.

She said: “I am excited to be joining PKF Smith Cooper as an audit manager in the Nottingham office.

“Everyone has been very welcoming so far, and I am looking forward to embedding myself into the audit team.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity of working alongside a talented team, to deliver high quality audits to our clients.”

Sarah Flear, audit and business services partner at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “As our team continues to grow, it is exciting to see our firmwide expansion plans coming to life. We are looking forward to Rachel joining our auditors in Nottingham – I am sure she will be a valuable addition to the team!”

Flagship hub to offer future technology skills training

Work has started on an £8.8m skills hub to train people for careers in emerging industries and help businesses adapt to changing technologies.

The state-of-the-art building – called the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange – is taking shape at West Nottinghamshire College’s Chesterfield Road campus in Mansfield.

‘It is a fantastic, physical symbol of a growing sense of optimism and a determination to embrace technology’

The steel frame making up the skeleton of the structure has been erected, ahead of the next phases of development including the external structure, masonry work, window and door installations and completing the roof.

Once work is completed next summer, the flagship facility will be able to accommodate

around 300 college students and deliver qualifications at level 3 and above – with a strong focus on innovation and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

The facilities will support subjects including

construction, engineering and digital technologies, helping to meet Mansfield’s future labour market needs, plugging skills gaps, and creating betterpaid jobs – particularly in sectors that are growing through advances in technology and automation.

This college building will provide 1,343 sq m –around 14,450 sq ft – of teaching space across two floors and be a focal delivery point for T Levels – technical-based qualifications developed in collaboration with employers.

It will also offer opportunities for businesses to benefit from the technological expertise of the college and Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and their industrial partners.

Andrew Cropley, principal and chief executive of West Nottinghamshire College, said: “I’m delighted the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange is emerging from the ground and beginning to take shape.

“It is a fantastic, physical symbol of a growing sense of optimism and a determination to embrace technology – and to create an exciting and prosperous future for local people.”

On course for business growth

Senior managers looking to boost the performance, resilience and long-term growth of their business can benefit from the return of a government-funded programme at Nottingham Business School (NBS) this winter.

The 12-week Help to Grow: Management course supports small and medium-sized businesses and takes place online to allow participants to complete it alongside full-time work.

It is delivered by experts at NBS, part of Nottingham Trent University, which is in the 1% of business schools worldwide to hold triple accreditation for excellence. The programme is worth £7,500 but is 90% Government funded.

The course covers key areas such as digital adoption, vision and values, building a brand, organisational design, employee engagement, and creating and implementing growth plans.

As well as online sessions, there are practical and interactive workshops, one-to-one mentoring, peer networking, and access to the regional and national Help to Grow

Nottingham

New rules for skills bootcamps

The Department of Education (DfE) has launched a pilot programme to simplify funding, auditing and reporting rules for skills bootcamps.

It comes under reforms, including merging several adult skills budgets into the single Adult Skills Fund in 2024/25.

alumni programme. NBS has delivered the programme since 2021, engaging 260 business leaders from 230 SMEs across the East Midlands and covering a range of sectors from construction and manufacturing to solicitors and digital marketing agencies, hospitality and leisure to beauty

and wellness. The next course, starting on Thursday, 21 November, is open to businesses with between five-249 employees that have been operating for at least a year.

For details email grow@ntu.ac.uk or visit www.ntu.ac.uk/helptogrow

Skills bootcamps are short learning and training programmes that are free for participants. For employers wishing to train their staff, the programme will pay for 90% of training costs for SMEs with under 250 employees and 70% of costs for programmes for larger organisations.

Midlands adult training provider TEC Partnership has been named as one of eight colleges taking part in this national pilot.

For a free consultation, email projects@tecpartnership.ac.uk

The Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange at West Nottinghamshire College’s Chesterfield Road campus in Mansfield

How the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange will look

Business School students outside the Newton building

The doors to Leicester’s newest high-tech workspaces have finally opened.

The first tenants are now resident at the Dock 3, 4 and 5 buildings close to the National Space Centre in Leicester’s Space City Enterprise Zone.

The new buildings, complementing the original Dock 1 and 2, are part of the city councilmanaged low-carbon hub for knowledge-based industries and innovative businesses.

The first tenants include Kazzoo IT Solutions, Somerbys IT, IN Focus ITS, Employee Zero, World Products, Translatr, Impact Venture,

Showroom move for flooring firm

and The VoIP Shop – with applications open to other companies associated with the downstream space sector, high tech, sustainability and innovation, or supporting companies.

‘The Dock expansion marks an exciting milestone in Leicester’s sustainable economic development’

Between them the five buildings have space for more than 120 businesses employing more than 600 people. They are also close to

A timber flooring business has relocated to new space in a prime position on one of Chesterfield’s busiest roads.

Timber Floor Studio has leased the 2,200sq ft of showroom space, including office accommodation, close to an existing trade counter.

The site was marketed by Salloway Property Consultants, whose surveyor William Speed said it was great to be able to facilitate a move for a local company in Chesterfield.

“Timber Floor Studio have showrooms in Doncaster, Worksop and Chesterfield but the Chesterfield move is a real upgrade for them, moving into a much more prominent unit beside the A61,” he said.

“It is still evident that high spec industrial and trade counter units are extremely popular in Chesterfield, with more and more tenants looking for space. We strongly recommend that anyone looking to sell or let their premises contacts us to discuss options.”

Tenants dock at hi-tech offices

the university-backed Space Park Leicester, and have gone up on land that was previously derelict.

City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said it was remarkable that the new buildings had taken just 15 months to put up and commended the potential to drive economic growth and innovation.

He said: “The Dock expansion marks an exciting milestone in Leicester’s sustainable economic development. We’re not just supporting local businesses and job creation, we’re also paving the way for long-term regeneration in Leicester.

“This project is a testament to

the council’s proactivity in fostering innovation, sustainability, and growth within – and most importantly for – our community. I’m excited to see the impact it will have on the region.”

Dock workspace manager Crystal Carter said: “Dock 3-5 represents the future of managed workspaces, where innovative businesses can grow while contributing to Leicester’s drive toward net zero and a more sustainable future –both economically and environmentally.”

Dock 3-5 are net carbon zero, with all heating powered by electricity.

Council puts hall up for sale

instructed to sell Allestree Hall by Derby City Council.

The 8.7 acre site includes a former stables and icehouse, and the council hopes to find a buyer who will be willing to restore the building back to its former glory.

It is on the market for offers in excess of £1.25m.

Subject to meeting the necessary planning and listed building requirements, the agent

number of different uses, including education, office, leisure and recreational or residential. Chris Keogh, associate director, Salloway said there had been a huge amount of interest.

Allestree Hall was built in the early 1800s on land previously owned by the Mundy family of Markeaton Hall. The Grade II-listed building was built over three storeys with Ashlar stone elevations, sash windows and a central full height bow.

Crystal Carter, city mayor Sir Peter Soulsby, Peter Chandler, Cllr Elly Cutkelvin at the Dock workspaces

Dock 3-5 in Leicester

The workspaces are net carbon zero

MOTORING

Imentioned in last month’s test that our road conditions today are getting worse and worse and freshly-laid road surfaces are a thing of the past. Another ‘thing’ that’s prevalent is the overcrowding of our roads, resulting in space, particularly in town, becoming tight and making it increasingly difficult to find somewhere to park.

To make things easier, Renault have got a trick up their sleeves in their new Austral, which replaces the Kadjar.

Its four-wheel-steering works at speeds up to 30 miles per hour, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front ones resulting in the turning circle reducing by more than a metre – better than a small car, such as a Clio and the like.

That means you are able to manoeuvre more easily into tight spots, which is great in today’s cramped society.

The Austral has three trim levels, designed to see which fits your budget. On the steering wheel there is a multi-sense button that

‘Despite being quite a big car, it rides and drives well thanks to a hybrid powertrain that delivers good economy and low emissions’

Journalist Nick Jones tests the latest offering from Renault – the Austral that boasts four-wheel steering.

Turning heads as well as all four wheels

FACTFILE MODEL

Renault Austral E-Tech Esprit

PRICE OTR

From £39,500 PERFORMANCE

Top speed: 110 miles per hour

0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds POWER 200 horsepower TORQUE

allows you to switch between four driving modes depending upon what you want from the car.

In the Austral, the gear change is on a stalk behind the wiper control (who remembers that function from the past) and is easy to use, albeit it does take some getting used to and does make the view from the driver’s seat somewhat cluttered.

Despite being quite a big car, it rides and drives well thanks to a hybrid powertrain that delivers good economy and low emissions.

It also has regenerative braking which can be adjusted by the paddles behind the wheel, allowing to keep the battery topped up. Whenever the back-up power allows the car runs in EV mode, especially when moving off and in stop-start traffic.

There is lots of room inside also, and at a price that is very tempting to take advantage of considering all that tech Renault have put together.

THE LAST WORD

With the climate change clock ticking, Chamber president Stuart Dawkins reasons that green technologies must be integral to all plans for global economic growth.

In this magazine a year ago, I compared the necessary evolution in how we produce energy with other periods of technological change. My conclusion was that the key difference is that climate change means there is a genuine penalty for delaying too long – a ticking clock with real consequences if we complete that evolution too slowly.

Nothing in the past twelve months has changed my opinion. If anything, events have solidified my view. Last year was the hottest on record and the number of serious weatherrelated incidents continues to grow rapidly across the world.

A couple of weeks ago, on the way to chair a Chamber president’s round-table, I drove past the Ratcliffe-on-Soar site just a few days after it became the last coal-fired power station in the UK to close, and just a couple of minutes before listening to a piece about its closure on Radio 4. A week later, I chaired the Chamber Leicestershire Members’ forum, which included a presentation on the Freeport, which includes the Ratcliffe site. The presentation made clear the importance of alternative energy production as part of the Freeport’s vision.

Much is being done, in our region and elsewhere, to progress towards an energy supply that does not rely on burning carbon fuels. There is much more to be done. Doubtless some new technologies will prove more successful than others, some will prove to be blind alleys; that is always the way with change. The evolution in how we source energy has a way to go, but there are many people working on the means to get us there.

That is all on the supply side. What about demand?

One of the most interesting presentations at the Chamber’s Sustainability Summit this year was on the psychology of climate change. A consideration of how people, as individuals and en masse, develop their own responses, their own narratives about climate change, the impact it has on their lives and the impact their lives can have on it. A couple of things struck me. The first

was the evidence that angst about climate change may be contributing to the wellpublicised growth in mental health issues, notably amongst younger people. The other was the many ways in which the human mind attempts to rationalise its behaviour. For example, “if climate change is so big, and so much of it is outside my influence, what difference does it make what I do?”

On both the supply side and the demand side, there is a clear argument that efforts should intensify, even if making the ‘absolutely correct’ decisions may be impossible. The ticking clock means that delaying decisions, in the hope that they become easier to make in the future, is not going to be a great strategy.

‘Our most talked about areas of technological progress are AI-based, and we pursue these at pace despite the increase in energy required’

There are further challenges. I imply that the belief that climate change is proven, and that society can do something about it, is universally held. And yet by the time you read this, the US –the largest economy in the world – may well have elected a president who seemingly does not believe this to be the case.

Even if there were a consensus that climate change is ‘a thing’, human behaviour is peculiar. We are aware of the need to move to more efficient means of transport. And yet across the world, the demand for ever-bigger, everheavier cars continues to grow – increasing the amount of energy required however that energy is produced (as well as making the death toll from accidents higher, although that is an aside). Our most talked about areas of technological progress are AI-based, and we pursue these at pace despite the increase in energy required to fuel the data centres needed to make them work.

I’m not sure what the moral of this is. Saying

something like “human behaviour is messy” is probably both true and somewhat trite.

Are there any conclusions from my meanderings?

On the supply side, there is a need for a political and economic environment that makes green technologies an integral part of planned growth for the UK – and ideally the whole world – supported by suitable infrastructure and incentives for the entrepreneurial risk-taking needed to make it all work. This will not guarantee that the evolution happens quickly, but without it there is little chance of it happening at anything like the required speed.

On the demand side, at an individual level –whether an individual business or an individual person – we should make attempts to help the evolution, and not be paralysed by the difficulty of making ‘the best’ decisions.

Will this be enough to slow, if not stop, the ticking clock? I don’t know, but the generation next-but-one that has been the focus of much of my thinking as Chamber president will indubitably be the ones to find out.

And further ironies? Even in this article, which tries to present a positive case for change, I have admitted to driving to an event (should I have taken public transport?), and as part of its drafting I generated an AI enquiry which will have burnt energy, before then editing out that passage. I am writing in a room heated by a gas boiler, as I simply could not work out whether my Edwardian brick-built house could cope with a heat-source pump… and on and on with decisions I am making that are probably not optimal. I doubt whether anyone reading this article is much different.

But I am convinced that we must collectively do something, make changes, keep a constant self-narrative about all of this, keep challenging. This is too important not to do that.

I am sure more erudite comments will be heard at the Chamber’s Energy Summit on 28 November. Sadly, I cannot be there as I have to attend a Board meeting, but I hope those who do attend can each do their bit to help us all through this rather tricky stuff.

Davies Turner established the Express China Rail service in 2016 in conjunction with our long term partners in China, Air Sea Transport, who already had years of experience in the China rail sector.

Initially, predominantly an import service, offering both LCL (groupage) and FCL (full load containers), the service quickly gained momentum as clients took advantage of the fast transits, compared to ocean freight and the much lower costs, compared to air freight.

With confidence and demand for China rail freight services soaring, February 2022 seeing the 50,000th China-Europe train embarking on its journey, Davies Turner, keen to fulfill the desire of the UK export market, has established a dedicated weekly LCL rail service from the UK to China.

Following successful trials, where transit savings in excess of 20 days compared to ocean freight were achieved, we are sure our export clients will benefit from this third freight option.