Business Manchester June 2019

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As Leader and the Chief Executive of the growth is very MANCHESTER much our priority. We areWigan committed to making your business the best it can be. Whether you are thinking of movingMANCHESTER to the borough or are already based LIVERPOOL here, our extensive rangeWarrington of support adds value to any business. We are as SHEFFIELD passionate about our businesses as we are about our residents. We want to LIVERPOOL help your business thrive.Warrington SHEFFIELD Our Council has recently adopted an Economic Growth Strategy. It lays the foundations of how this Council makes Rossendale one of the most business friendly boroughs in the country as well as creating high quality jobs for our residents.

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As Aside from its breath-taking scenery, m In the heart of the count should consider Rossendale as why a home There are hundreds of reasons you be of living and close links to incredible views and remarkable In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale programme, a package of nvenient location and excellent he easy decision for any bus for yourconsider business... and support designed to encourage businesses to invest and should Rossendale measures as a home pa landscapes, grow here. This includes business rates relief, planning and licensing advice, Rossendale has extensive tions to world class supply he From Whitworth to Rising for your business... employability support through our award winning Rossendale Works hasinvest a reputation for attra In the heart of the countryside, our welcoming communities, desirable quality offerings for those who want to in O programme, friendly communities and of living and close links to big cities make choosing Rossendale as yourbespoke base an workshops and sessions and our positively received Orthoplastics and Hollan fo initiatives such as our Red Carpet Scheme. easy business venture.

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The convenient location and excellent connections to world class supply chains, friendly communities and inthe new funding which has helped transform our borough and the ground or contribute to your growth, excellent wider Competitively-priced employment sites and retail relationships unitsbringing burstingtowith charm, affordable properties provide a regenerate the Lancashire business landscape and oftocourse theget location, easy accessand to aNorth rangeWest of Council support, developed help you off area.

Rossendale willcontribute help your to business flourish. the ground or your growth, excellent relationships to the wider We have successfully brought in millions of pounds worth of funding to improve favourable setting for any company.

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Rossendale will help your business flourish.

MANCHESTER technology business UKFast received HRH Princess Anne as a guest at its campus during a royal visit to the city.

The Princess Royal, who takes a keen interest in training and development within UK businesses, visited UKFast after the firm was honoured with a If you would like to know Royal more Training about Award in 2018. prestigious Princess these sites, contact us on Theplease tech firm was recognised with the award for continuous outstanding dedication to bridging the digital skills gap and encouraging ongoing professional development, particularly through its apprenticeship programme. or email The royal visitor met a number of UKFast’s economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk staff, including apprentices, teachers and senior management, and learned more about their contribution to the firm’s work in training and education.

During the tour of UKFast Campus in Hulme,

01706 252480

nrossendale.com

01706 252 480

our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

We have also identified manyBusiness development businesses ratesopportunities reliefbespoke schemefor available with design & build solutions to benefit from. Our map on Land the centre spread gives a flavour of what those opportunities are. The next few years promises to be very exciting for available with bespoke design & build solutions Property &inland foundersItLawrence andLand Gail Jones Rossendale. is a great place to invest and searches grow your business. We hope to hear from youthe soon. explained firm’s recent growth, its

house through apprenticeships and its Planning & licensing adviceTreatment scheme Soft Landing & Red Carpet contribution to the community.

It was a meeting of the great and Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment scheme Business workshops, events & networking opportunities the good as the Lord Lieutenant of Business workshops, events & networking opportunities Greater Manchester Warren Smith, Linking you tothe our support partners High Sherriff of Greater Manchester you to help our support partners Mark Adlestone and theLinking Lord Mayor Employability “Training and education playmore a hugely important If you would like to know about of Manchester Cllr June Hitchen were also in Employability help these sites, please contact us on role in the growth of our business.

We’ve learned School enterprise initiatives attendance. that the opportunity to grow and develop is the UKFast CEO Lawrence Jones said: “We are School enterprise initiatives single biggest factor that motivates people in their Innovative projects around Rossendale all incredibly and thatSUGARMAN the ALYSON BARNES proud of this accolade STUART careers. Our apprenticeship scheme is testament to Princess has chosen to visit ourChief campus.

It’s aRossendale Leader of theRoyal Council Executive Innovative around Promoting projects your business & celebrating your success stories and of the apprentices that came through ormany email Rossendale Borough this Council huge honour that only makes us more determined are now running departments and economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk to continue to invest in Promoting the personal development of our programme your business & celebrating your success stories looking after important parts of our network.” our team.

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Borneo It’s a Jungle out there...

Borneo is one of nature’s rarities, it has such rich and unique biodiversity making it a mecca for wildlife lovers from around the world.

The island is covered by an ancient rainforest, one of the world’s oldest, and is home to thousands of species of flowers, trees, mammals and birds - many of which are found nowhere else. It has also become a last refuge for a number of endangered animals including the Bornean Orangutan and Pygmy Elephant.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is known worldwide for the work it has done in helping turn around the fortunes of the native species. The centre rears between 60 and 80 orangutans that have been orphaned, teaching them the skills essential for their survival in the wild. A couple of hours drive from Sepilok is the Kinabatangan River, one of the most ecologically diverse rivers in the world. On cruises along Kinabatangan you can expect to see pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys and rare bird species.

Close by are Gomantong Caves, known for the nightly exodus of its more than quarter-of-a-million strong population of bats, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural phenomena.

There are two sides to the island’s flora and fauna. As well as the wealth of species and unique wildlife who call the island home, Borneo also has magnificent landscapes to discover with superb Highlands, pristine beaches and deserted islands waiting to be explored.

Kinabalu National Park, inland from the city of Kota Kinabalu is known for its superb jungle trails which give views of Borneo’s tallest mountain, Mount Kinabalu. Of course, as with the rest of the island there’s plenty of chance to discover wildlife, with more than 4,500 species of flora and fauna in the park alone.

The Shearings Borneo Wilderness tour includes accommodation that mixes the luxurious with the unique! You’ll stay in rainforest lodges, mountainside boutique hotels and idyllic seafront resorts, including the Shangri-La Rasa Ria which sits on the pristine white sands of Dalit Beach, lapped by clear blue seas that stretch to the horizon.

Prices start from £2,192 per person and include return flights from the UK, meals, resort transfers, accommodation and nine included excursions to discover this incomparable island.

SAVE UP TO

£100

*

PER PERSON BOOK BY 30TH SEPTEMBER

BORNEO WILDERNESS • See the Sepilok Orangutan up close at the rehabilitation centre and witness the centre’s ranger feeding the primates from the feeding platform • Sail the Kinabatangan River day and night to spot wildlife including Pygmy Elephants, Proboscis Monkeys and rare bird species with no less than 3 included river cruises • Take a jungle trek at the nature trails in the surrounding jungles of the Oxbow Lake

10th June & 15th Sept 2020 from £2,192pp

For more info and to book visit

shearings.com or call

01942 416281 using code NBU922 Terms & Conditions apply. Price is based on 2 people sharing a standard double/twin room, and flying with Malaysia Airlines from Heathrow *and already includes the £100 per person discount.

Other regional departures also available – supplements may apply.

Price correct as of 20/05/2019. E&OE

Biz_Business Manchester Lancashire - May2019.indd 2

20/05/2019 17:06

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WELCOME ...to the June 2019 edition of Business Manchester. In this issue, you will read about how a partnership between the University of Manchester and BAE Systems has resulted in an aviation breakthrough.

You will also read that UKFast recently welcomed royalty and how a U.S manufacturer has acquired a Manchester paper straw firm.

CONTACTS & CONTRIBUTORS Group Editor: Andy Mann 07951 731722 andy@thesamueljamesgroup.com Editor: Phil Ghayour 01772 364152 07825 884003 phil@thesamueljamesgroup.com Design: Robert Leach 01772 364150 / 07930 962609 robert@thesamueljamesgroup.com

CONTENTS DIGITAL

6

EDUCATION

9

AWARDS BUSINESS SUPPORT

10 11

SUPPLEMENT: INVEST IN ROSSENDALE

25

INTERNATIONAL

34

ACQUISITIONS

36

NAA

37

TRANSPORT

38

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

39

APPOINTMENTS

43

PROPERTY

47

If you would like to be involved with BUSINESS MANCHESTER, please get in touch:

Group Commercial Director: Sam Whitear 01772 364150 / 0758462676 sam@thesamueljamesgroup.com

This publication is produced by The Samuel James Group Ltd, Unit 6/7 Eastway Business Village, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9WT. Reproduction of the contents of this newspaper in any form is not permitted, without the permission of the publisher.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors and/or omissions in advertisements, information, photographs or illustrations. The opinions and advice in this newspaper do not necessarily express the view of the company. © 2019

www.businessmanchester.co.uk

Published by The Samuel James Group

4

June 2019

Andy Burnham unveils UK’s first 5G enabled immersive technology lab at MediaCityUK OVER £100,000 has been invested in a new virtual and augmented reality facility which was unveiled by Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, at The Landing at MediaCityUK. Digital Catapult’s Immersive Lab, the first in the UK to be 5G enabled, has been created through a partnership between The Landing, MediaCityUK’s tech hub specialising in high growth tech start-ups, and Digital Catapult, the UK’s leading digital innovation centre.

The Immersive Lab contains a wide range of AR, VR and Mixed Reality equipment, as well as green screens, providing the ideal space for large multinational organisations and rapid tech start-ups to collaborate, test and create new products.

During the launch event, Andy Burnham gave a keynote speech before digital innovators and VIP guests experienced the new facility first hand, hearing from industry leaders about the importance of immersive technologies and their potential.

The event ended with two panel discussions debating the future of augmented and virtual reality in a 5G-enabled world, and the implications of technology on society as a whole.

Digital Catapult’s Immersive Lab is located on the 6th floor of The Landing, alongside Vodafone’s new 5G testbed and The Landing’s existing user testing facilities and rapid prototyping lab.

The new Immersive Lab significantly enhances the facilities and

equipment available to rapid tech start-ups in The Landing and global partners.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “The new technologies created by and for 5G align perfectly with Greater Manchester’s industrial strategy and will help turn our ambition to be a leading digital city-region into reality.

It’s also an amazing opportunity to bring to life a range of proposals set out in GMCA’s digital strategy.”

Paul Billington, managing director at The Landing said: “Our launch event has been a great success, with some fascinating insight from industry leaders and we’ve already had some incredible feedback on the facilities.

“The new Immersive Lab will drive innovation and collaboration for

organisations large and small working with AR, VR and Mixed Reality. It is a fantastic asset for The Landing programme, and all the tech innovators based here, as it will enable them to create new products and content.

“It will also enable us to host and deliver a series of new and highly innovative educational and training events as well as European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) workshops. We are continually evolving and expanding an already impressive range of hightech facilities here at The Landing and attracting a growing number of multi-national corporate partners and accelerator programmes to enhance what we are already offering to tech startups in terms of support and infrastructure.

“Following on from

our successful Metalab conference last year, the Immersive Lab is another big step forward for The Landing as the go-to location for AR and VR in Greater Manchester and supports our ambition to be the best place to grow rapid tech start-ups in the UK and beyond.”

Geraldina Iraheta, Director of Business Development at Digital Catapult, said: “It’s so important to have facilities like the Immersive Lab providing access to cutting-edge technologies which help small businesses grow and corporations seize the power of immersive tech.

“We’re pleased to welcome MediaCityUK to our nationwide network of Immersive Labs, and to work with our partners at The Landing in offering this facility to businesses in

the region to showcase, demo and test innovative solutions and exciting creative content.”

Debbie Brown, Director of Service Reform at Salford City Council, said: “Salford Council is an awardwinning, digitally progressive council with some great ideas on what we can do with this technology. Working with The Landing and Digital Catapult is a great opportunity for our citizens.”

Jon Buckthorp from Vodafone UK, said: “Working with The Landing and their tech start-ups we have tested both the live 5G network and the new mobile edge computing service. With ultra-low latency tests of 7ms and bandwidth speeds of beyond 200mbs this creates an amazing opportunity for the VR ecosystem.”

6 DIGITAL

Business Growth Hub helps A&D Sports flex its digital muscle A MANUFACTURER and supplier of commercial gym equipment and accessories from Rochdale has seen a 50% increase in web traffic and taken on twelve new members of staff following support from GC Business Growth Hub. A&D Sports supply innovative gym equipment and accessories to both the UK and European fitness industries, employing over 40 people and with distribution deals to more than 20 countries.

However, managing director Darren Golden felt the business was missing out on sales due to a poor website that was under-performing in internet searches.

Darren sought support from GC Business Growth Hub, part of The Growth

Company, to optimise the company’s website, drive more traffic to the site and, ultimately, create more sales.

Growth Hub digital advisor Chris Murphy delivered a wide-ranging digital strategy for the business, beginning with a revamp of the website that focused on the site’s Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) performance. Chris did this by reviewing the site’s usability and monthly performance data, leading to changes to the site’s page structure to maximise its performance on both desktop and mobile.

Crucially, Chris also worked closely with the firm’s new apprentice, Aidan McIlvenny, to make him the company’s digital expert so that both the site and the company’s social media

presence would remain up-to-date and so, continue to perform well for the company’s related search terms.

This new approach led to a 50% increase in web traffic, and saw online sales grow substantially, with the increased online presence also playing a part in a series of new businesses wins, including Clubs DIR Barcelona and Sports Per4mance Rotterdam.

The company has also taken on twelve new members of staff to help deal with the increased demand and is gearing up for a new direct sales push, with social media set to play an important role.

Darren Golden said: “We are very grateful to Chris and the Hub for all the support we’ve been given.

Thanks to the Hub’s range of

support, we’ve now got new product ranges and will be using social media to target these at very specific groups.

Selling directly to commercial gyms is a new direction for the business and one that is absolutely perfect for the new digital channels that have been developed with Chris’s support.”

Chris Murphy said: “Darren wanted a site that did more for the business than simply showcase his products.

Research shows that over 67% of people who search the web will only ever click on the first five search results, meaning that businesses outside the top five are losing customers.

“It was important then to boost the performance of both A&D Sports’ website and other online portals so that they reflected the

company’s status as a leading manufacturer and supplier of gym equipment, thus bringing in increased sales so that Darren and his staff can continue to develop the innovative equipment they have become known for.”

Businesses looking to access specialist support can visit www.businessgrowthhub. com for more information about the organisation’s extensive range of services.

This and other GC Business Growth Hub projects are part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the GM Business Growth Hub project designed to help ambitious SME businesses achieve growth and increase employment in Greater Manchester.

Christeyns Food Hygiene introduces new take on e-learning WARRINGTON based hygiene specialist, Christeyns Food Hygiene, has launched Moviemento, the UK’s first fully adaptable Learning Management System and e-learning package designed to meet the stringent hygiene requirements of food and beverage production environments.

The unique platform is a result of the collaboration between government agencies, food and beverage safety experts and online training specialists and provides seamless, up-to-date management of all training programmes, whilst simplifying the process of knowledge sharing across an organisation.

Moviemento differs from traditional e-learning

in that it not only offers the ability to tailor and personalise the existing content, but also to add company specific training resources; site rules, practices, policies, procedures, in various formats

such as of photographs, animations or video clips, thus ensuring full engagement, relevance and understanding for users.

The platform is also personalised to look and feel like a company’s own website, incorporating elements such as branding and ethos so the user feels immediately comfortable.

“We are very excited to be bringing this innovative and unique learning programme to the UK marketplace” says Elaine Hankinson, Business Development Manager at CFH. “It has been hugely successful in Belgium and is now completely in line with the laws and regulations related to the UK food and beverage manufacturing industry.”

DIGITAL

Talentful on a mission to bring London-based tech candidates to the North-West place to live and work.

This event is part of a commitment by Talentful to facilitate the continued growth Manchester is now the LAST year, 10,200 people of the technology sector in made the move from London to UK’s biggest tech hub outside Manchester, which also includes of London – the digital tech Manchester, with many making recently partnering with Code the move back to the region after turnover in the city climbing by 4% to £3.2bn last year, with over Nation. Code Nation is on a leaving the North-West for the 70,000 digital jobs, and the event mission to enable individuals capital. in Shoreditch, London will raise from all walks of life to thrive Talentful, the team building in Industry 4.0, as well as to specialists for the world’s biggest awareness of tech opportunities solve the ever-growing digital in Manchester to the best tech brands, is committed to skills shortage in the UK, and London-based candidates. increasing this number even Talentful is delighted to be The event, hosted by further by showcasing some supporting Code Nation in the Talentful’s Director of of the North-West’s best tech mission.

Manchester, Liam Waite, on 13 companies at an exclusive event Liam Waite, Talentful June, will also provide further in the capital to attract the top Director of Manchester, said: “I London-based jobseekers to the information about what makes was born and bred in Manchester the North-West such a brilliant region.

7

but, like a lot of people, moved to London to begin my career after university. I have recently returned to Manchester and haven’t looked back! At Talentful, we have immersed ourselves in the thriving tech community here in order to continue the growth of the region.

"Now, we’re really excited to be promoting working and living in Manchester directly to the most talented London-based tech candidates, some who may be looking for a move back to the region and some who would be experiencing the North-West for the first time.”

8

DIGITAL

June 2019

GC Angels selected by Innovate UK to support immersive tech firms

NORTH West Investment Specialist, GC Angels, has been selected by Innovate UK to partner with it’s Immersive Technology Investment Accelerator, which aims to provide grant funding alongside private investment to creative and tech companies.

Up to £2m is available through the accelerator for UK creative and tech businesses to undertake R&D projects that enable immersive content to be created faster, more efficiently or in new ways through simultaneous

grant funding and venture capital investment.

GC Angels will invest alongside Innovate UK and total project costs must be between £150,000 and £300,000. Innovate UK will provide grants up to 70% of costs dependant on business size, with the remaining funds to be raised by either GC Angels or one of 10 other investment partners, including major investors in this sector such a Creative England, HTC Europe, London Venture Partners and Warner Music.­­­­­

The funding will support companies who require funding and finance at seed stage to drive R&D and company growth whilst providing the runway for later stage capital and equity investment in the future.

The Immersive Technology Investment Accelerator opened to companies on 20 May in London, which will be followed by a series of events across the UK. The Manchester event will take place on 4 June at The Landing, MediaCityUK. The competition is open to all UK based businesses with GC Angels supporting businesses across the North West, a brief and further details on how to apply can be found here.

GC Angels, part of the Growth Company, offers equity investment up to £2m. In addition, the company can prepare and prequalify investments, as well as invest alongside associate Angels and Investment Partners. Since its launch in 2015, GC Angels has supported investments of over £20m in 30 businesses. As part of the wider Growth Company, Immersive Tech businesses can benefit from further Access to Finance support, the Made Smarter programme through their AR/VR specialist team as well as International trade support.

Established in 2007, the Government-backed Innovate UK programme has invested more than £2.5bn in 8,500 organisations, helping them to develop and realise the potential of new ideas. This funding has helped create over 70,000 jobs and added an estimated £18bn of value to the UK economy.

Damian Mohammed, Investment Director for GC Angels, who leads this project, will sit on the judging panel at the Manchester event. He said: “The immersive tech sector is maturing at a rapid pace and businesses in this space are seeking funding to realise their big ideas. However, the sector is being underserved by the finance and investment ecosystem as it is not developing at the same rate. A fast-growing but embryonic consumer market place is driving uncertainty with investors, making funding hard to come across.

“With its Immersive Technology Investment Accelerator, Innovate UK has addressed this gap in the funding market, and we’re excited to be a part of it. The North West is home to many forward-thinking tech companies, and this competition will boost R&D in immersive technologies and help them execute their ambitions.”

Visualsoft ties up contract renewal with Daniel Footwear eCOMMERCE and digital marketing agency, Visualsoft, has announced a contract renewal with premium fashion company Daniel Footwear, extending their partnership for a further two years.

The new agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between the two businesses, which began with Visualsoft’s creation and implementation of a new digital marketing model for the retailer in 2014.

The contract extension means that Daniel Footwear will continue to benefit from Visualsoft’s Enterprise+ retail platform – an all-in-one solution which includes an extensive range of bespoke, rationalised and retailer-tested integrations and

features.

In addition to the provision of services including videography, PPC, social media and SEO, Visualsoft will continue to host the Daniel Footwear eCommerce site on its platform as part of the renewal.

Daniel Footwear, which was founded in 1993, has reported consistent 20-25% online growth year-on-year and a 16% boost in site traffic since the commencement of its initial contract with Visualsoft.

Mark Buxton, head of eCommerce at Daniel Footwear, said: “We have found Visualsoft to be a very proactive platform and marketing agency. The

team has helped us consistently grow online every year that we have partnered with them and I cannot recommend them enough.”

David Duke, CEO of Visualsoft, said: “Daniel Footwear has been a fantastic client to work with for the past five years and we look forward to seeing the business continue to grow online in 2019 and beyond.”

9

EDUCATION

UMI3 Ltd reveals partnership with Graphene Engineering Innovation University of Manchester Centre plays part in aviation breakthrough FOR the first time in aviation history, an aircraft has been manoeuvred in flight, using supersonically blown air, removing the need for complex movable flight control surfaces. In a series of groundbreaking flight trials that took place in the skies above North-West Wales, the MAGMA unmanned aerial vehicle demonstrated two innovative flow control technologies which could revolutionise future aircraft design.

MAGMA, designed and developed by researchers at The University of Manchester in collaboration with engineers from BAE Systems, successfully trialled the two ‘flap-free’ technologies at the Llanbedr Airfield.

The technologies have been designed to improve the control and performance of aircraft. By replacing moving surfaces with a simpler ‘blown air’ solution, the trials have paved the way for engineers to create better performing aircraft that are lighter, more reliable and cheaper to operate.

The technologies could also improve an aircraft’s stealth as they reduce the number of gaps and edges that currently make aircraft more observable on radar.

Developing such technologies helps to ensure the UK has the right technologies and skills in place for the future and could be applied to the development of a Future Combat Air System. It is the latest technological breakthrough to come from a number of BAE Systems collaborations with academia and industry, that will help the UK to deliver more advanced capability, more quickly, and through shared investment.

Julia Sutcliffe, Chief Technologist, BAE

Systems Air, said: “MAGMA is a great example of how collaborating with bright minds at British universities can deliver ground-breaking research and innovation.

Our partnership with The University of Manchester has identified cutting-edge technology, in this case flap-free flight, and turned what began as a feasibility study into a proven capability in just a number of months. It demonstrates how STEM can be applied in the real-world and I hope the success of these trials inspires the next generation of much-needed engineers and scientists.”

Bill Crowther, senior academic and leader of the MAGMA project at The University of Manchester, added: “We are excited to have been part of a long-standing effort to change the way in which aircraft can be controlled, going all the way back to the invention of wing warping by the Wright brothers. It’s been a great project for students to be part of, highlighting that real innovation in engineering is more about finding practical solutions to many hundreds of small technical challenges than having single moments of inspiration.

“The partnership with BAE Systems has allowed us the freedom as a university to focus on research adventure, with BAE Systems providing the pathway to industrial application. We made our first fluidic thrust vectoring nozzle from glued together bits of plastic and tested it on a hair drier fan nearly 20 years ago. Today BAE Systems is 3D printing our components out of titanium and we are flight testing them on the back of a jet engine in an aircraft designed and built by the project team. It doesn’t get much better than that.”

THE University of Manchester’s innovation company, UMI3 Ltd, has become the latest partner of the multi-million-pound Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC).

UMI3, the University’s technology transfer company, is the fifth Tier One partner of the GEIC, which opened in December 2018.

The GEIC specialises in the rapid development and scale up of technologies using graphene and other 2D materials.

This new collaboration will see University graphene subsidiary, Graphene Enabled Systems Ltd, manage a technology development laboratory on behalf of UMI3.

The facility will be available for all University graphene spin-out companies to use.

Tier One GEIC partnership benefits include access to worldleading expertise and experience along with specialist equipment to aid projects which will accelerate product and process development and market entry.

Andrew Wilkinson is the CEO of UMI3, the technology transfer company which leads the commercialisation of The University of Manchester’s innovations and IP to create global social and economic impact.

He said: “We’re delighted

to announce that UMI3 is the latest Tier One member of GEIC, the world’s leading 2D materials development and scale-up facility.

“Commercialising science is fundamental to economic growth. This technology development laboratory, managed by Graphene Enabled Systems Ltd, will help facilitate the proactive approach of the graphene ecosystem in Manchester.”

The GEIC, housed in The Masdar Building on the University’s North campus, complements the National Graphene Institute’s (NGI) international research focus by concentrating on multi-faceted industry-led applications development. The key areas within the new building include pilot productions, characterisation and material development in composites, energy, solution formulations and coatings, electronics and membranes.

Some of the world’s biggest and most influential companies are working with The University of Manchester on graphene applications.

10 AWARDS

Combined Chemical Services wins Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade WARRINGTON based Combined Chemical Services has received a 2019 Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

Established in 2008, the chemical distributor was honoured as a result of its success in developing its global reach, providing chemical solutions to countries including USA, Germany, Czech Republic, Italy, Singapore and Australia. Selling to major blue-chip organisations, Combined Chemical Services has enjoyed sustained growth over the past three years and last year

achieved overseas sales of £1.8m, which accounted for 52% of the overall turnover.

Specialising in high purity and commercial grade inorganic chemicals, the firm provides chemicals for a variety of uses, including water treatment, metal finishing, catalysts, renewable energy and pharmaceutical purposes.

Commented owner, James Marshall: “Winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade is a great honour, since it demonstrates

how much we have developed as a global business. As well as offering a range of chemicals, we also provide technical support and innovative solutions to our portfolio of clients which includes some of the biggest companies in the chemical industry.

“What makes Combined Chemical Services different is that we keep a wide range of chemicals in stock at all times, allowing us to distribute them immediately to our UK and international clients as they are required.”

Belle Vue drives off with honours at UK Coach Awards A DRIVER at Stockport bus and coach hire firm Belle Vue Manchester has been crowned the best in the UK. Miguel González was named top UK coach driver at the 2019 UK Coach Awards.

He was among a clutch of Belle Vue winners at the 11th annual awards, a national scheme which recognises and rewards excellence in the industry.

Miguel, a married father-of-two who hails from Tenerife, joined Belle Vue in 2016.

He mainly drives on school and college routes and has become hugely popular with pupils and students.

He plays their favourite music radio channel and allows them soft drinks and snacks. In return, the youngsters help him clear up their coach at the end of their journeys.

On one occasion, when Miguel switched routes, students successfully organised a petition demanding he be reinstated as their driver.

Phil Hitchen, managing director of Belle Vue, said: “Miguel is a great asset to the team and we are thrilled for him in winning this accolade.

“He has a friendly, helpful and professional attitude and receives numerous commendations from customers for his punctual, efficient and safe driving performance.”

The judges said: “School contracts

are the bread and butter for many coach operators, so to find a driver who is able to keep unruly pupils under control assuring a safe and well-behaved journey while also becoming the children’s most popular driver is quite exceptional.”

Miguel was a coach driver in Tenerife until tourism waned and work became more difficult to come by. He contacted Phil on Facebook, saying he found Belle Vue appealing because of its ethos of caring about teamwork.

Phil was impressed and invited him over for a trial. Miguel studied online to get to know the main routes across Manchester and the motorway network and, after a successful trial, landed a full-time job.

Miguel said: “Just being chosen from more than 60 drivers to represent Belle Vue at the awards made me extremely proud.

“I’m so happy that everyone has welcomed me to the business and the area, and to win the award is a tremendous honour.

“I’m so very grateful to the company, and especially to Phil Hitchen, for giving me the chance to work here.

Without his belief in me, my dream could never have come true.”

Belle Vue’s other winners at the awards included transport supervisor George Docherty, who won gold in the unsung heroes category.

Contracts manager Mike Mitchell

won silver and mechanic Adam Tailby took bronze in the customer service and support staff category.

Maintenance manager Jason Cotgrave won silver in the engineer of the year category and Belle Vue picked up silver in the innovation category for its use of the iMA teambuilding and management programme.

Phil said: “It’s great to see so many of our staff recognised in this way, demonstrating the strength in depth of our entire team.”

George, 56, was praised for literally going the extra mile in his role. He looks after route planning, co-ordinates vehicle repairs, driving assessments and training, is a fire marshal and health and safety team member, and helps out as a driver at a moment’s notice when required.

He works six days a week and organises charity events, as well as co-ordinating transport for large events, including the One Love Manchester concert in 2017.

The judges said: “George is shown to be someone who is happy to get stuck into whatever job is needed. He has a good eye for detail, even for tasks that he’s given at short notice. He regularly goes above and beyond and is a true unsung hero.”

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NPIF North West Microfinance fund hits £3million investment milestone TWO years after launching NPIF – BFS & MSIF Microfinance in 2017, GC Business Finance has reached a landmark £3million lending milestone, supporting over 50 businesses across the North West.

The product fund managed by GC Business Finance, in partnership with MSIF, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF), offers finance and loans from £25,000 to £2m to enable small and medium sized businesses to grow and develop.

GC Business Finance and MSIF have supported businesses across Greater Manchester, Cumbria, Lancashire, Liverpool and Cheshire with the latest NPIF loan of £80,000 being awarded to MyEBook, a publishing platform for businesses that want to create and publish their content to an on-line audience.

The platform allows publishers of digital content to publish magazines, newsletters, brochures and catalogues in real time, bringing in web and email links, video and animation to engage their audience. The Lancashire based business already works with a number of clients, including ten UK Chambers of Commerce, and the loan will be used are to help fund further product developments, to move to a dedicated office space in St Anne’s and to hire additional sales and administrative staff. Owner Darren Fowler has worked in print publishing for over 20 years and moved into digital eBook publishing when the industry was still in its infancy.

Chris Hutchison, Head of Lending at GC Business Finance, said: “We’re hugely proud to be marking our £3m milestone as a fund manager for the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

These loans are helping an entire generation of entrepreneurs across the North West to get the support and the confidence they need to start or build their businesses on a local, national and increasingly global stage.

“From innovative tech enterprises designing ground-breaking AI products to traditional

manufacturers, the companies we have helped with NPIF investment programme are driving forward our economy by creating jobs, stability and diversity in the region and we look forward to helping many more local entrepreneurs to reach their own business and growth milestones.”

Sue Barnard, Senior Manager at British Business Bank, said: “Just two years into this fund’s life, we can already see NPIF investments having a measurable impact on business growth in the North of England. The investment in MyEBook exemplifies the work that NPIF is doing across the North. By supporting businesses with the funds to boost headcount and move premises, we are creating a more prosperous regional economy for the future, and in turn helping to reduce the historic regional disparities between the North and the South.

“Whilst there is more to do to balance the regional disparities across the country, I am looking forward to our third year, during which NPIF will continue to support established and emerging businesses in the North.”

First half hard work pays off for Frenkel Topping SALFORD-based specialist independent adviser Frenkel Topping says six months of hard work in the first half of its financial year have paid off in the second half.

Announcing annual results for the year to December 31, 2018, the firm delivered a record £92m of new investment mandates across a 12-month period.

The firm, which is focused on protecting the assets of people who have suffered life-changing accidents, also achieved a 10th consecutive year of high client retention

(98%) for investment management services, and its assets under management (AUM) increased to £779m, up from £752m.

During the first six months of the year, the company invested significantly in marketing, HR, the Frenkel

Topping Academy and technology, stabilising the business and preparing it for future growth.

Richard Fraser, Group CEO, said: “The board is pleased to report a year of progress, underpinned by significant investment across the business.

“Last year we identified a number of risks to Frenkel Topping’s development and embarked on an investment strategy to help grow and protect the business in a challenging market environment and mitigate these risks.

“During the year we invested close to £1m across the business, mainly on tech, the Frenkel Topping Academy and marketing.

“This resulted in a 43% rise in new investment mandates and a 33% increase in expert witness instructions, the latter a key pipeline for future AUM growth.

“We remain focused on delivering outstanding service to our clients and sustaining our very high client retention rate, as well as consolidating our position as the UK’s leading asset manager for personal injury and clinical negligence awards.”

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June 2019

Bridge Law Solicitors opens Knutsford office NORTH-West based law firm, Bridge Law Solicitors, has expanded, with the opening of a new office in Knutsford, which is the law firm’s third office in the North West, joining other locations in Marple Bridge and West Yorkshire. Bridge Law also has an office in London.

The new office on King Street, Knutsford, opens following continued demand for Bridge Law’s specialist services, including dispute resolution, landlord and tenant, contentious trust and probate, family, employment, as well as wills and probate.

The firm’s equine law specialist, Sophie Murgatroyd, will be based at the new Knutsford office, Sophie’s passion for equine activities has seen her become a leader in equine law, alongside her other specialties of private and business litigation, corporate agreements, agricultural law,

debt recovery, property disputes and professional negligence.

Sophie, said: “Following Bridge Law’s continued success and growth, we feel the time is right to open another office and there is no better place to do it than in my hometown of Knutsford. I am really excited to offer our exceptional legal services here and look forward to further developing our portfolio of clients.”

Claire Stewart, Director, Bridge Law, added: “After a period of exceptional growth and extremely hard work by all of the team, we are now in a position to expand and offer our services closer to our core Cheshire clients. This is a very exciting time for all of us at Bridge Law and we look forward to getting to know the people as well as the local businesses of Knutsford.”

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June 2019

Bathroom Takeaway to invest £1.35m into UK Market SALFORD based specialist Bathroom Takeaway has announced plans to invest £1.35 million into its UK business with a strong emphasis on growing its digital footprint, investing in its people development programme and streamlining stock with key suppliers to support sales growth.

Over the past five years Bathroom Takeaway has become a household name across the UK and has made a real splash in the bathroom sector by offering high quality bathroom suites at a fraction of the cost of their competitors. This added investment will enable the bathroom specialists to remain firmly on the UK retail map for amazing value and reassuring quality.

Chris Norton, Director at Bathroom Takeaway said: “Digital marketing has always been a huge passion of mine and with this added investment we can now further strengthen our digital capabilities and capitalise on the progress we’ve made so far.

For the time being we will be reducing our presence in mainland Europe which frees up £100K to go towards the UK arm. With UK house price growth continuing to slow whilst we await the outcome of Brexit we’ve seen an increased trend for homeowners to invest in their bathrooms and kitchens rather than moving home so now seems like the perfect time to make this added investment and pass our savings onto our customers.

“As a business we’re incredibly proud of our people and strong customer service record and really do feel it is what truly sets us apart. With this added investment we will be working closely to offer exceptional training and progression opportunities for our existing employees, many of whom have been with the business for many years.”

BrightHR launches £1 million recruitment drive BrightHR, a Manchester-based HR software firm, is launching a £1 million recruitment drive to help meet international demand for its product.

The firm which was founded in 2015 and funded by two of the North West’s best-known entrepreneurs, Peter and Fred Done, is hiring 25 new software delivery roles over the next three months.

The newly created roles span all levels—from junior to expert—and include product owners, business analysts, developers, development

leads UX designers. The firm also plans to strengthen its sales team to support the significant momentum in the SME market for its software.

BrightHR has over 220,000 users in the UK, Ireland and Canada. And soon, it’ll be available in Australia and New Zealand.

Alastair Brown, Chief Technology Officer at BrightHR, said: “BrightHR’s delighted to be investing in securing new talent.

The investment will not only benefit our ambitious growth plans but our customers as well.

“We’re thrilled with the products our teams have created so far, and we’re looking for new talent to help us come up with and create fresh technology.

“It’s a unique and inspiring place to work. And over the last year, we’ve launched four new products, entered multiple international markets, and released and improved thirty new features.

“These are exciting times for BrightHR and we’re keen to attract the best and brightest talent from the North West tech scene.”

superhero movie Shazam! and Scott and Sid, which was named Best British Film at the National Film Awards. Its next project will be with Daniel Radcliffe for The Playmobil Movie.

Andrew Trotman, co-founder, said:

“We only really started developing our film division in early 2018 so seeing this kind of growth in such a short space of time is fantastic. Thanks to the number of people we are able to reach and the total views figures we achieve, studios quickly realised that we are a credible outlet for their film content. That awareness has seen us move into working with talent which is a really exciting step for the business.

"Our focus is now on building on these foundations and to grow our profile across the film sector.

Ultimately we want to become the first port of call for all major cinematic releases.”

It’s Gone Viral’s film division reports 60% surge in work

The agency’s roster of film studio clients now includes major names such as Lionsgate, Universal, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros, BBC Films and StudioCanal.

The firm, which was founded in 2016 by Matthew Thomas, Andrew Trotman and Ryan Williams, produces and distributes video content and viral campaign adverts for international brands across its social platforms. The team is a mixture of content creators, analysts and video producers.

IT’S Gone Viral, the Manchester Recent film campaigns headquartered social media marketing company, has seen a surge in the number of delivered by the agency include projects that it is delivering for film studios Nick Frost and Steve Merchant’s Fighting with My Family, as well after achieving a 60% increase since the as HellBoy, Warner Bros’ DC start of the year.

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Clip ‘n Climb and Ultimate Recreation both sign with Toast PR Toast PR has been appointed to work on international and national briefs for two new clients in the leisure industry, Clip ‘n Climb, the market leader in climbing activity experiences and Ultimate Recreation, the parent company behind four popular names in the UK experiences market: Apocalypse Events, Bunker 51, Star Command Laser Tag and Trapped Escape Rooms.

Clip ‘n Climb has its head office in the French Alps and 250 centres around the world. Toast is working with the brand on a piece of international research exploring activity levels among children and teenagers, as well as promoting a new scoring system – Clip ‘n Score – which enables climbers to track their

scores, climbing height and speed via contactless technology. Toast’s work will include media relations, influencer outreach, blog content, social media management and the launch of the brand’s new scoring system.

Tiphaine Lazard, Leisure Product Manager at Clip ‘n Climb, said: “With so many new centres opening up world-wide, appearances at global expos and the launch of our new scoring system, it’s a busy time at Clip ‘n Climb.

“Quality and innovation is central to our business and so we needed to find a partner to communicate this with creativity and confidence.The team at Toast is already delivering outstanding results and we are really pleased to be working with them

across B2B, consumer and trade campaigns.”

Visitors to Ultimate Recreation’s sites have included the Beckhams, Elle McPherson, Little Mix and Premier League football teams. Toast has been appointed to work on raising awareness of the activities available at each of its venues as well as brand story development as the company continues to expand. In addition to media relations and working with tourism organisations, the Toast team is developing engaging blog content for Ultimate Recreation’s new website and will be supporting the launch of the new mobile immersive ‘trapped’ experiences later this year.

Nikkayla Henricksen, Group Marketing Manager at Ultimate

Recreation, commented: “Toast immediately impressed us with its knowledge of the industry and understanding of our brand. We’re looking forward to working with them as part of our team as we continue to grow our business and develop new and exciting opportunities.”

Julia Mitchell, Managing Director at Toast PR, commented: “We’re delighted to be working with Clip ‘n Climb and Ultimate Recreation – both of which share our ‘work hard, play hard’ philosophy and approach.

Leisure activity outside the home and new experiences have never been as popular, particularly among millennials so it’s a great time to be communicating what both these brands have on offer.”

Cowgills backs Bolton boxer Jack Flatley COWGILLS is supporting boxer Jack Flatley as he goes for the English super welterweight title. Jack, from Farnworth, is appearing on the bill at the University of Bolton Stadium on 11 May and will fight Shropshire’s Craig Morris.

Cowgills has sponsored Jack since turning professional in 2015 and is proud to be supporting him once again as he goes for the title for the first time.

Stuart Stead, a partner at the Bolton-based accountancy and business advisory firm has supported Jack throughout his career.

Jack said: “I’m training harder than I ever have before and am already at my fighting weight. This fight is brilliant for my career and also brilliant to see the rest of Bolton get behind me. The interest and support locally

has been phenomenal.

“Without the support of corporate sponsors like Cowgills, I wouldn’t be able to put all of my focus into training. Stuart and the firm have been loyal supporters since the start of my journey and it has allowed me to train and focus on my career. I’m ready for the fight with Morris and would like to thank Cowgills for helping me on this unbelievable journey.”

Stuart Stead added: “Jack combines raw talent with grit and hard work to reach his goals. It’s our privilege to be able to follow his journey and wish him the very best for the night. This latest fight is testament to the investment we, and others, have made to date to help Jack reach another level.”

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June 2019

Clough & Willis celebrates growth one year after Marston becomes managing partner

Corporate department are up by 15% and by 4% in litigation.

Since becoming managing partner, JUST over a year since Lee Marston Lee has managed the firm’s day-to-day took over as managing partner of Bury operations, driven its strategic growth & Bolton based law firm Clough & and continued to develop its people Willis, the business has secured rises in and working practices. turnover for several of its departments.

Lee became a partner in 2001 and Over the past 12 months, has headed up the Family team since employment work has jumped by 2000 and was a founding member of 24%, whilst cases handled by the the Family Law Panel. Lee acts for

a cross section of clients and has a particular expertise in acting for the owners of large businesses.

Lee commented: “The last 12 months has been a period of transition and growth for the firm and these results are evidence of everyone’s hard work and efforts. We’ve focussed on delivering the very best service to our clients as well as on our own growth strategy and that approach is starting

to pay dividends.

"We have also grown our headcount by around 14% in the last year. These new arrivals – both lawyers and support staff – have slotted in seamlessly with our existing team and have also played a big part in this success. Our focus is now on building on these foundations to ensure Clough & Willis is best placed for all future opportunities and expansion.”

Manchester Brewery expands MANCHESTER-based ShinDigger brewery is expanding its operations with the support of six-figure funding package from HSBC UK. The brewery has used funding to make capacity improvements to its current 2,500 sq. ft. warehouse in Ancoats, Manchester. These developments come in the build up to summer 2019 plans for a move to a much larger facility in Salford, with capacity to store 1,000 kegs at the optimal temperature of four degrees, ensuring consistent quality across the range. Prior to moving into its Ancoats site, the business relied on renting warehouse space across the region and transporting beer from satellite brewery sites.

ShinDigger currently supplies beer throughout Northern England and is broadening its presence across the UK. To meet this growing demand, the brewery has also invested in a new delivery van to ensure efficient delivery of its products to pubs and retailers, including select Co-op supermarket stores.

The brewery is also planning to increase its exports across Europe, catering to a new found appetite for craft beer in countries including Italy and Spain. An increased stock capacity and more international contracts are expected to increase its exports by up to 10 per cent over the next year.

The brewery’s expansion, with support from HSBC UK, has already created three jobs with further capacity for growth. The business is expected to increase its turnover by 50 per cent over the next 12 months.

Paul Delamere, Co-Founder and Director of ShinDigger, said:“This expansion is a major development for us and signals the start of an exciting chapter for the brewery. Traditionally, we have always operated as a shadow brewery, creating recipes we love and brewing offsite so storage could prove tricky. The new warehouse and increased delivery capacity will ensure that our products

taste as good to beer fans across the UK and beyond, as they do at our Manchester home.”

Andrew Holgate, Business Banking Relationship Manager for Manchester at HSBC UK, added: “ShinDigger is a great example of how two individuals can convert a shared passion into an international business.

Over the past seven years, the brewery has demonstrated an aptitude for developing a unique range of beers that stand out in a crowded market. We’re delighted to be supporting the business in the next stages of its journey look forward to toasting every future success.”

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Arkwright Insurance joins forces with one of the UK’s leading price comparison platforms ARKWRIGHT Insurance has joined forces with one of the UK’s leading insurance comparison platforms, Quotezone.co.uk, to bring its home insurance offering to an even wider group of tenants and homeowners.

Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Bolton, Arkwright Insurance’s track record of outstanding performance and exceptionally high levels of customer service helped the firm win a prestigious Broker of the Year award from the British

Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA).

Quotezone.co.uk was an early pioneer of online comparison technology for the car insurance industry, and has since expanded its offering to provide users with free price comparisons for a wide range of other insurance products, including home insurance, motorhome insurance and holiday home insurance.

Headquartered in Belfast, the Quotezone.co.uk platform was launched by Seopa Ltd in 2005, and has since grown

to become one of the UK’s leading insurance comparison websites, generating millions of quotes for its partners each year.

This new partnership agreement between the two brands will offer Quotezone. co.uk’s millions of users an opportunity to explore the value and benefits of taking out a home insurance policy through Arkwright Insurance.

Elyas Mogra, Managing Director of Arkwright Insurance Brokers, said: “At Arkwright Insurance Brokers

we’re deeply committed to making the insurance process as simple, straightforward and cost-effective for the customer as possible, which is why Quotezone.co.uk’s easy-to-use platform is a perfect fit for our brand.”

Greg Wilson, Founder of Quotezone.co.uk, added: “Arkwright Insurance’s commitment to providing its customers with a truly personal service that makes the insurance process efficient, effective, affordable and easy to understand is the reason

the firm was recognised with a Broker of the Year award – and that commitment to customer service is at the very heart of the company’s ethos.

“That’s why we’re delighted that Arkwright Insurance has chosen to partner with our leading price comparison platform,Quotezone.co.uk, and are confident that both the company and our millions of users will greatly benefit from our partnership.”

Triangle Architects prepares for the future with EOT ANCOATS-based Triangle Architects has undertaken a change of corporate ownership, with four directors taking the helm following a full transfer of share ownership from the founding directors into an Employee Ownership Trust.

The EOT will ensure that all the staff will now own the practice collectively and will, in addition, provide a platform for them to engage with the board of directors on the running of the business and its performance.

It is an ownership model already well established within the architectural profession.

Set up in 1986 by co-founders, David Ward and Tim Wallbank, the RIBA-Chartered practice is now wholly owned by its staff. However, the founding partners will remain on hand as trustee directors to offer support throughout the succession

process.

The employee-owned business has a strong history within both the public and private sectors and of collaborating creatively with existing communities, stakeholders and bespoke client groups. It is supported by a new board of directors boasting collective experience in excess of 60 years, all of whom have already worked within the practice for much of their professional lives; Mark Trayhorn, Harry Randhawa, Barry Murphy and Alison Duxbury.

Prominent in the housing sector, Triangle’s 2019 development pipeline is set to include more than 2,000

residential units for projects including Cheshire Junction in Warrington, Middlewood Plaza in Salford, Silbury Boulevard in Milton Keynes and Hattersley Central in Greater Manchester.

Speaking of the handover, Barry Murphy, said: “Our objective has always been to achieve effective, successful and sustainable design solutions that enhance the lives of the people we serve. Central to achieving this ambition has been our commitment to creating a happy and fulfilling workplace for our staff.

“Fifteen per cent of the UK’s top 100 architectural practices have

adopted the employee ownership model, so it’s a proven method of ownership within the sector and one we wholeheartedly believe will work for Triangle.”

David Ward, founder trustee director, added: “The employee buyout continues our legacy of helping people to feel valued, understood and supported and we’re tremendously excited to be a part of guiding Triangle’s future success.”

Deb Oxley OBE, CEO of the Employee Ownership Association, concluded: “We congratulate Triangle Architects on its transition to employee ownership.

“By widening ownership of the business to its employees, Triangle Architects is securing the future of the business, including its ethos, values and employees, while rooting itself locally for the longer term to the benefit of the communities which it serves.”

The region’s biggest annual innovation event 20 November 2019 at Manchester Central Calling all start-ups, growing businesses, investors and innovation specialists.

Book your place now for an exceptional mix of inspirational speakers, interactive workshops and networking opportunities.

Innovation Showcase Competition open for entries until July 8. www.venturefestnorthwest.com

#VFNW19

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LeasingOptions.co.uk announces St. Helen’s RLFC Partnership LeasingOptions.co.uk, one of the UK’s leading car leasing companies, has announced a new partnership.

The North-West based car and van leasing company has agreed a two-year partnership with Super League rugby club, St.Helens R.F.C. LeasingOptions.co.uk joins the likes of Totally Wicked and Cash Converters as partners of the Club. The investment is part of Leasing Options’ long term plans to grow their market share and profile in the UK. The partnership will focus on player engagement as well as advertising in and around the stadium with LeasingOptions.co.uk committing to support St. Helen’s chosen charities. Plans already include a range of car-based challenges to be filmed at the

MSDUK’s first North-West region supplier diversity day for Ethnic Minority Businesses (EMBs) took place at the Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert hotel. The event featured a fascinating panel discussion on doing business with large companies, followed by a presentation from leading motivational speaker, David McQueen.

Founded in 2006, MSDUK has worked with over 125 global brands and more than 1500 EMBs, introducing hundreds of new ideas, products and supply chain solutions and securing £735m worth of business for EMBs. The organisation inspires the next generation of ethnic minority founders, offering them a platform to showcase their innovative ideas, and provide them access to knowledge, investment and

Totally Wicked stadium and shared across Saints TV and both organisations’ social media channels.

The brand will also appear on the LED boards within the grounds.

Mike Thompson, Director of Sales and Marketing at LeasingOptions.co.uk, said: “St. Helen’s approached us to work with them as they had seen what we have done before with other partnerships and wanted to get involved.

“We met the team and were instantly impressed with their energy and we knew we would have a great working relationship. The lads are a great laugh and up for anything so we can’t wait to start sharing some of the fun we have on and off the pitch.

“Rugby league has a huge following of fans,

especially across the North-West and with Dacia Magic Weekend taking place next month in Liverpool, we’re excited to be able to reach such a large new audience.”

MSDUK Manchester’s diversity event inspires EMB leaders

markets to help them grow and achieve their dreams.

The panel comprised of leading lights of industry; Nick Caton, Director of Procurement at Barclays; Aysha Kazi, CEO at Ark Talent; Azeem Khan, CEO at Gemini Group; Dennis Ford, International Sourcing Leader at Cummins and Jason Black of Enterprise Holdings.

Among the guests was Bipin Patel, Business Consultant at Guide Security, who said: “I believe that diversity is one of the big pluses that this region has, but translating that to profitability is quite a steep journey,” “MSDUK is leading that charge. We’re here to find out how they’ve done that. People like Mayank have spent a lifetime overcoming some of these challenges and bringing down the barriers.”

Reet Dhallu, Lead Regional Membership Manager (GM North and South) at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, added: “It was of benefit to our members as it allowed them to connect with other businesses in the area. It widens our membership and gave members the opportunity to connect with diverse businesses. Attendees make some useful connections with some of these corporate organisations.”

Nick Caton offered advice on the opportunities in public and private sectors: “Local Authorities have social value policies in procurement and use that as part of their procedure.

“In the private sector, diversity is becoming more important. In Barclays, we have a very big supplier

diversity programme. We’re seeing a change where businesses are taking the diversity agenda more seriously because our customers want it. The commitment is real and is flowing through into procurement processes, so take advantage because the time is now.”

The importance of networking was emphasised by Aysha, who commented: “It’s about relationship building and networks. You may be part of MSDUK and go to a conference that you think isn’t relevant, but everyone is connected to another person and they may know someone who has something for you. And once you have a relationship, maintain it.”

The discussion was followed by a presentation by David McQueen on creating

the perfect pitch. In his presentation, he said: “As a business owner, you’re always pitching – to staff, customers and stakeholders, and even through things like blogs and networking. You’re talking about what you’re really passionate about, so concentrate on the human element. If you’re fired up, you’ll do a good job.”

He also talked about the importance of really engaging with people: “If you can make people smile, you’ll take them on a journey.”

Also impressed was Godwin Anthony of Ascent Leadership: “I joined MSDUK a few months ago and I’ve been to a few events and I’ve been blown away by the calibre of people and what they’re promoting – diversity in the workplace. It’s amazing.”

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Amazon fulfilment MHA welcomes centre urges staff to new hotels as sign up to training boom continues THE Amazon fulfilment centre in Manchester is urging staff at the site to sign up for a programme that offers funded, nationally-recognised training courses aimed at developing their career.

The Amazon Career Choice programme encourages Amazon associates to pursue training and qualifications in high-demand fields such as engineering, IT, computer

science, mechanical and electrical trades, healthcare, construction, transportation, logistics, accounting and more, even if that means a career outside of Amazon.

Amazon pre-pays 95% of tuition and associated fees for the nationallyrecognised courses, up to £8,000 over four years.

Adam Wilson from Macclesfield is one of hundreds of Amazon associates that have taken part in the programme.

He is now encouraging his fellow employees to get involved.

Adam has worked with Amazon since 2017 and is studying a Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety through Career Choice. He said: “Before joining Amazon, I worked in the education sector. After eight years in different roles, I decided that I wanted to change the direction of my career. I really enjoyed the health and safety element of my previous roles and pursued a job at a company where health and safety is everything, Amazon.”

“I had two main goals when I joined Amazon – to secure a promotion and

to achieve advanced qualifications in health and safety. I recently secured a promotion and thanks to the Amazon Career Choice programme, I’ve been able to start the journey towards higher level qualifications in health and safety.

It’s been a great programme to be a part of and I think the fact that Amazon makes a financial contribution towards the cost of the courses is fantastic.”

“The Amazon Career Choice programme will have a lasting impact on my future career as a health and safety professional and I’d encourage everyone at Amazon in Manchester to get involved.”

Neil Travis, General Manager at Amazon in Manchester, said: “We want everyone at Amazon to pursue their dream job and that’s what the Amazon Career Choice programme is all about. We believe that all our associates should have the opportunity to develop their skills and that’s why we’re offering funded training courses in a range of interests and industries. I’m looking forward to seeing the latest group of recruits join the Amazon Career Choice programme and congratulate Adam and his colleagues on their achievements.”

Mike Kane, MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East, added: “It’s great to learn of the continued professional development of the people working at Amazon in Manchester through the Career Choice Programme. I think it’s a great scheme that offers many opportunities for staff during their career with Amazon, with another company or in a different industry.

I’d like to congratulate Adam and his colleagues at Amazon in Manchester and wish them every success in their future endeavours.”

THE man at the helm of the city region’s hotel sector has welcomed the new hotels that are due to open in 2019.

Adrian Ellis, Chair of Manchester Hoteliers’ Association, said openings including Dakota Manchester, Native Manchester in London Warehouse and Stock Exchange will enhance the city’s already strong position as an international destination.

“Quality hotels and hospitality help attract more travellers and tourists,” said Adrian. “We welcome the soonto-open Dakota Manchester as well as Stock Exchange and London Warehouse which are due to open later in 2019.”

The region’s current hotel pipeline is strong, according to Visit Manchester, with 6,225 new rooms confirmed for Greater Manchester from

new openings and property extensions, a growth of 25% on the current supply.

In terms of Manchester city centre, a planned 3,410 rooms are due to come on board that would increase the current supply by 33%.

This follows the openings of Whitworth Locke and Hotel Indigo in Manchester city centre towards the end of 2018.

Adrian, who has served as chair of hoteliers’ associations in major European and Asian cities during almost two decades spent working in hospitality, added: “Hoteliers across the city region are already giving people great products on many different levels and competition is strong.

“But new hotels mean new jobs and the opportunity to attract and retain the best talent in our sector, which is one of MHA’s four key initiatives.”

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Mitchell Charlesworth announces raft of new client wins MANCHESTER accountancy firm, Mitchell Charlesworth, has secured a raft of new client wins across Manchester and the North West.

Six local businesses have appointed Mitchell Charlesworth to provide a full range of financial and business advice services, including audit and accounts, tax planning, VAT, R&D tax credits, payroll and strategic planning.

Mitchell Charlesworth’s new client wins include award-winning North West

recruitment agency, Jobwise, which has been assisting local businesses and job seekers for over 40 years and recently won a hat trick of awards at the Greater Manchester Business Awards and Manchester-based HairShark, an innovative haircare tool that is the world’s first 2-in-1 backcombing brush and gives a perfect bouffant hairstyle.

The firm has also been appointed by Thrive Media Group which owns Add People, one of the UK’s largest digital marketing agencies.

Headquartered in Altrincham, the company specialises in helping SMEs with their digital marketing. It has 150 employees advising over 3500 clients across the globe on their digital marketing strategies.

Other recent business wins for the firm include Urmstonbased Kin Bakehouse & Kitchen, an independent cafe bakery business run by two female entrepreneurs; Rochdale charity Link4Life which encourages people to live more active, creative

and healthy lifestyles; and Yozu, a specialist software development company that designs intuitive desktop and mobile applications.

Alison Buckley, partner at Mitchell Charlesworth’s Manchester office said: “This is a very exciting time for us with such an influx of innovative and successful new clients and it really is a testament to the strength and expertise of the

team that we are celebrating these wins.”

Jamielee Johnston, associate at Mitchell Charlesworth added: “We look forward to working with our new clients and supporting their ambitious growth plans by providing strategic financial advice as well as general accounts and tax services.”

Businesses to compete as cricket frenzy takes hold AS cricket frenzy grips the region, companies across the North West are being invited to enter a team into the Business Cricket Tournament being held in Wilmslow on Friday 26 July.

Officials, umpires and scorers for the event will be provided by Warwickshire County Cricket Club to ensure fair play, while the Lindow Cricket Club has been chosen as the host venue because of its stunning location and facilities.

The afternoon will also feature inflatables, hot tubs, food and drink stalls plus VIP areas, alongside music and DJ, making it a great family-friendly event for those who want to spectate.

Organised by online marketing agency DigitalNext, all proceeds will be donated to the Greater Manchester Youth Network (GMYN).

Justin Blackhurst, CEO at DigitalNext, said: “We wanted to support the amazing work of the GMYN. With the Cricket World Cup being held

in the UK, closely followed by The Ashes, a cricket tournament seemed the obvious choice. As well as giving businesses something to compete for, there’ll be lot of entertainment for those who just want to come and watch.”

Alex Fairweather, CEO and founder of GMYN, said: “GMYN has never been involved in a cricket tournament before so we were delighted when Justin suggested it as a fund raiser.

“Events like this enable us to continue changing the lives of disadvantaged young people – those who are either in care, care leavers or living in poverty. By delivering a range of programmes that help them develop basic life skills, they are able to make a successful transition into adulthood and become valuable and contributive members of society.”

22

BUSINESS SUPPORT

FRIDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2019 The first ever Big Networking Expo is coming to Bolton Arena in September 2019! After the success of the Networking Arena events, we have decided to combine networking and exhibition opportunities all in one place.

Open to all businesses, the event gives you the chance to showcase your brand to potential customers and clients, whilst creating everlasting business relationships.

For details on our stand packages or to attend, please call 01204 488112 or email events@boltonarena.com www.boltonarena.com

June 2019

BUSINESS SUPPORT

23

Greater Manchester manufacturer among first in UK to enrol in £20m Made Smarter business support programme A PIONEERING company in Greater Manchester is among the first in the country to benefit from a government-backed programme designed to boost UK manufacturing productivity and growth.

Animators and puppet-makers Mackinnon & Saunders, based in Altrincham, is aiming to transform its businesses by adopting new digital technologies through the £20M Made Smarter programme.

It is among a cohort of nine North West companies who have successfully applied for Made Smarter matched-funding, allowing them to explore and adopt leading-edge advanced manufacturing methods such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), 3D-printing and robotics.

Over the last three decades Mackinnon & Saunders have brought to life some of children’s most beloved TV characters including Bob the Builder, Postman Pat and the new Clangers, and collaborated with Hollywood director Tim Burton on Mars Attacks!, Frankenweenie and Corpse Bride and Wes Anderson on Fantastic Mr. Fox. In recent years, the company has been increasing its use of computer-aided design and 3D printing technology.

“Working closely with some of the most innovative digital companies in the world will put the company in the best position to capitalise on new products and markets and give us a technological advantage over our international rivals.

“We are excited to benefit from the Made Smarter business support program.”

Donna Edwards, Director of the Made Smarter North West pilot, said: “I am delighted that the Made Smarter pilot has now supported The forward-thinking firm now wants to embrace the the first successful SME applications, including very latest developments in additive manufacturing and Mackinnon & Saunders. innovative software solutions to help design and create “We have found businesses are enthusiastic its models. about the benefits of adopting new digital These new processes will increase the quality and technology. Often, they need funding support, accuracy of the company’s products, boost efficiency and alongside specialist advice and insight to help increase export sales opportunities. them select the right approach for their business.

Peter Saunders, Director of Mackinnon & “This is exactly how Made Smarter can and is Saunders, said that exploiting the potential of these helping businesses across the Greater Manchester new developments will help the company maintain its region. position as a world leader in its sector.

“Made Smarter is relevant for any North “Recent improvements in CAD, virtual sculpting West SMEs who make, create, manufacture or and, in particular, some incredible ground-breaking engineer, and I urge local businesses not to miss developments in 3D printing, are creating new this opportunity. I would encourage anyone who opportunities for us to utilise digital technology may be interested to register today for a fullyalongside the traditional craft skills associated with funded audit of your operations and see how Made puppet-making.

Smarter might be able to help you.”

Greater Manchester Business Expo: an overwhelming response to the new Expo on the block THE Greater Manchester Business Expo opened its doors to the North West business community at the USN Bolton Arena.. This first time event attracted 1200 delegates keen to visit the 150 exhibitor stands.

Organiser, Shout Network, was delighted with the turnout, having hosted the Lancashire Business Expo

for five years, and its first Merseyside Business Expo in 2018.

Jordan Conlin, Director at Shout Expo, said: “The North West has a thriving business community and there’s a thirst for credible opportunities to promote businesses and network with peers and even competitors. We know this from our networking

groups across the area and the amount of business exchanged week in, week out.”

Exhibitors at the Manchester Business Expo hailed from across the North West and beyond.

A wide range of business sectors were represented, with many exhibitors being new businesses taking the opportunity to engage

with Manchester based organisations and the wider North West business community.

Feedback on the event was overwhelmingly positive, with many exhibitors pledging to exhibit again in 2020.

Delegates and exhibitors alike made all-important new connections and said they were impressed with the warm

leads secured and connections made.

Plans are already afoot for the Greater Manchester Business Expo 2020 which Shout Network has declared will be even bigger and better, focussing on developing innovative ways of promoting the unique appeal of the North West business community.

24

BUSINESS SUPPORT

June 2019

The Manufacturers Alliance second Annual Conference inspires industry

THE Manufacturers Alliance celebrated its second Annual Conference at the AJ Bell Stadium. The conference has been the biggest to date with over 100 attendees, including a diverse range of speakers sharing best practice.

Created specifically for small and medium sized businesses in the manufacturing industry, the Manufacturers Alliance runs peer support groups for senior manufacturing leaders, who meet on a monthly basis to share ideas and solve their most challenging business issues. Its members are experienced managing directors and senior decision makers, so each peer group boasts a wealth of expertise and knowledge.

Manufacturing leaders at the conference inspired attendees by taking the stage and sharing insights into what has worked well for them.

Gary Knight, Managing Director at Wheatley Plastics said: “It’s great to

interact with other group members and see their journeys in business but more importantly, it’s so beneficial to have access to the tools and techniques of business growth and leadership and how I can apply that to the day to day running of my business.”

Manufacturing support organisations such as Make UK, Business Growth Hub, Made Smarter, Manchester Metropolitan University and Lloyds Bank, shared how they have engaged with and supported the development of local SME manufacturing businesses in the current economic and political climate.

David Searle, Chairman of South Manchester & Cheshire Groups said: “It was a great day and inspiring to see over 100 manufacturing leaders from SME businesses in the same room together all with a desire to learn and improve. It bodes well for the future of British manufacturing.”

CITY OF MANCHESTER BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 Thursday 19th September 2019 at 6:30 pm - 11:30 pm The Lowry Hotel 50 Dearmans Pl Manchester, Salford, Greater Manchester M3 5LH United Kingdom The ninth annual City of Manchester Business Awards will take place on the evening of Thursday 19th September 2019 at the Lowry Hotel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT CHRIS MCKENNA AT: chris.mckenna@downtowninbusiness.com The Samuel James Group_Adverts.indd 1

23/04/2019 11:38

SUPPLEMENT: INVEST IN ROSSENDALE

June June2019 2019

25

26

SUPPLEMENT: INVEST IN ROSSENDALE

Rossendale is a borough on the up and is aR great place to do business and over the next gr few pages in this supplement we show youfew

Rossendale is aon borough on the up and is a Rossendale is a borough the up and is a Rossendale ison adoborough onand the up and isnext a great place to business over the Rossendale is a borough the up and is a great placegreat to doplace business and over the next As Leader and the Chief Executive of the Cou to do business and over the next Aside from its breath-taking scenery, Aside few pages in this supplement we show you why. much our priority.

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Leader and the Chief Executive of the Council, business growth is very Aside from its breath-taking offerings for thoseAsscenery, who toAsmuch invest in offeri Our Council has recently adopted an Econom our priority.

Webusiness are committed tovery making your business the best it can Leader andwant the Chief Executive of the Council, growth is Aside from its breath-taking scenery, foundations of how this or Council makes Rosse be.

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We are the the boroughs inany the country as well as b cr be.

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We are as offerings for those who want to invest in Our Council has recently adopted an Economic Growth Strategy.We It lays the landscapes, Rossendale haspassionate extensive measures and support designed to encourag help your business thrive. about our businesses as we are about our residents.

We want to foundations of howGrowth this Council makes Rossendale one of the most business offerings for those whohas want to invest in world Our Council has recently adopted an Economic Strategy.

It lays the landscapes, Rossendale growmost here.

This includes rates relief, connections class supply conn the borough. help yourinvest business thrive. friendly boroughs in the country as creating highbusiness quality jobs forthe our offerings forextensive those whoto want to in foundations of how this Council Rossendale one of theas business Ourmakes Council has recently adopted anwell Economic Growth Strategy.

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This includes business rates relief, planning and licensing advice, measures and support designed to encourage businesses to invest connections to world class supply education partners and Lancashire County C In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale programme, a package of The convenient location and excellent favourable for and any company. favou programme, bespoke workshops and and ourand positively received chains, friendly and employability support through our here. awardThis winning Rossendale Works grow includes business ratessessions relief, planning licensing advice, connections to communities worldsetting class supply measures support designed to encourage businesses to invest and good skills mix in the borough so businesses initiatives suchsupport asand our our Red Carpet programme, bespoke workshops and sessions positively received chains, friendly communities and employability through ourScheme. award winning Rossendale Works growa here. This includes business rates relief, planning andright licensing advice, connections to world class supply people from theour local area. affordable properties provide initiatives such as our Red Carpet Scheme. programme, bespoke workshops and sessions positively chains, friendly communities and committed boosting skills in the areaand and work closely received with employability support through We ourare award winning to Rossendale Works affordable properties provide a initiatives such as our Red Carpet Scheme.

We have an excellent track record and we education partners and Lancashire County Council to ensure that there is a cer We are committed boosting skills in the area and closely with programme, bespoketo workshops and sessions and ourwork positively received chains, friendly communities and favourable setting for any company. affordable properties provide a such good skills mixCouncil in the so businesses can be confident they can get the bringing inthe new which has helped tra education partners and Lancashire County to ensure that there is afunding We Scheme. are committed toborough boosting skills in area and work closely with initiatives as our Red Carpet favourable setting for any company. people from the area. good skills mix in the boroughright so businesses can belocal confident they can get the to ensure that there is a education partners and Lancashire County Council affordable properties provide a regenerate the area. favourable setting for any company.

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our town centres, our roads and our infrastru

regenerate area. track bringing in from new funding has helped transform our record borough and We have anthe excellent and we certainly buck the national trend, right people the localwhich area. regenerate the area. bringing in new funding which has helped ourmany borough andto improvo We have also identified development We and havewe successfully brought millionstrend, oftransform pounds worth of funding We have an excellent track record certainly buck the in national regenerate the area. to benefit from.

Our map on the centre sprea our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

We have successfully in millions of pounds our worth of funding bringing in new fundingbrought which has helped transform borough and to improve those opportunities are.

The next few years p our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

We have successfully brought in millions of pounds worth of funding to improv regenerate the area.

We have also identified many development opportunities for businesses ourbenefit town centres, ourmap roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

Rossendale.

It is a great place to invest in and to from.

Our on the centre spread gives a flavour of what have also identified manyindevelopment opportunities forfunding businesses WeWe have successfully brought millions of pounds worth hear of to improve from you soon. to befor those opportunities are. The next few years promises very exciting for totown benefit from. our Our roads map on the centre spread gives flavour of what We have also identified development opportunities businesses our centres, and our infrastructure vitalamany for growing business.

Rossendale.

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We hope to those opportunities are. The next few years promises bethe very exciting for grow to benefit from.

Our maptoon centre spread givesyour a flavour of what WeRossendale. have also identified many opportunities for businesses hear from you soon.

It is a great placedevelopment to invest in and grow your hope to those opportunities are.

Thebusiness. next fewWe years promises to be very exciting for tohear benefit from. map on the centre spread flavour whatin and grow your business. We hope to from you Our soon.

Rossendale.

It is agives greata place toof invest those opportunities are. The next few years hear from youpromises soon. to be very exciting for Rossendale. It is a great place to invest in and grow your business. We hope to hear from you soon.

If you would like to know more about

If you would likethese to know more aboutcontact us on sites, please If you would like to knowthese moresites, aboutplease contact us on If you like to know more about these sites, please contact us would on these sites, please contact us on If you would like to know more about these sites, please contact us on

01706 252480 01706 252480 01706 252480 01706 252480 01706 252480

or email or email economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk or email economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk ALYSON BARNES or email ALYSON BARNES STUART SUGARMAN economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk Leader of the STUART Council SUGARMAN Executive ALYSON BARNES economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk Leader of theChief Council Rossendale Borough Council or email ALYSON BARNES STUART SUGARMAN Leader of the Council Chief Executive Rossendale Borough Council Leader of the Council Chief Executive economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk ALYSON BARNES Leader of the Council

Rossendale Borough Council STUART SUGARMAN Chief Executive Rossendale Borough Council

ST Ch Ro

www.investinrossendale.com Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk @investinross 01706 252 480 www.investinrossendale.com Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk www.inv 01706 252 480 www.investinrossendale.com Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk @investinross 01706 252 480 www.investinrossendale.com Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk @investinross 01706 252 480

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01706 252 480

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

@investinross

WHY ROSSENDAL W 27

June 2019

WHY ROSSENDALE? WHY ROSSENDALE? WHY ROSSENDALE? WHY ROSSENDALE?

Keighley

Blackpool

Only a stone’s throw from Rossendale is a borough on the up and is a Manchester, reat place to doa stone’s businessPreston and over t andthe next Only Only a stone’s Only a from stone’s throw ew pages in this supplement we show you why. why.

Leeds.

Only a stone’s throw from Blackpool

Blackburn

Bolton

Keighley Bradford LEEDS Burnley KeighleyBradford Wigan LEEDS Blackburn Preston HalifaxBradford LEEDS Burnley Blackburn Bradford Preston Burnley LEEDS Halifax Blackburn Preston 10m 20m 30m Halifax Blackburn 10m Halifax20m 30m LIVERPOOL 10m Huddersfield 20m 30m Rochdale Warrington 10m 20m 30m Bolton Huddersfield Bury Rochdale Huddersfield Bolton Wigan Bury Rochdale Huddersfield Bolton Wigan Bury As Leader and the ChiefRochdale Executive of the Council, business growth is very Bolton MANCHESTER Bury Wigan much our priority.

We are committed to making your business the best it can MANCHESTER Wigan Blackpool

Burnley

Brad

Only 10mthro2 Man Pres Leed Halifax

Keighley

Keighley

Blackpool

Blackpool

Preston

Rochdale Bury

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MANCHESTER

Hudders

from Manchester, throw fromthrow Manchester, Manchester, Rossendale is a borough Preston and Manchester, Preston and uncil, business growth is very eking from its the breath-taking Preston and Leeds. scenery, your business best it can great place to do busines Preston and Leeds. he borough or are already based be. Whether you are thinking of movingMANCHESTER to the borough or are already based LIVERPOOL dible views and remarkable There a There here, areourhundreds reasons you lue to any business. We are as Leeds. extensive range of of support adds value towhy any business.

We are as SHEFFIELD MANCHESTER LIVERPOOL few pages in this supplem Leeds. about our residents. We want to passionate about our businesses as we are about our residents.

We want to LIVERPOOL SHEFFIELD scapes, Rossendale has extensive Warrington

should shouldhelpconsider Rossendale as a home your business thrive.

SHEFFIELD Warrington SHEFFIELD ings for those who want to investfor in your mic Growth Strategy.

It lays the Our Council has recently adopted an Economic Growth Strategy. It lays the for your business... endale one of the most business foundations of how this Council makes Rossendale one of the most business are hundreds of reasons why youin the country as well as creating high quality jobs for our borough. reating high quality jobs forThere our friendly boroughs Aside from its breath-taking scenery, Warrington

LIVERPOOL

Warrington

There are hundreds of consider reasons why you In the heartresidents. of the countryside, our welcoming communities, desirable quality In the heart of should Rossendale as a links home There are hundreds of reasons why you of living and close to big cities make choosing Rossendale as your base an of living and cl incredible eshould programme, a package of Rossendale In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale programme, a package of views and remarkable convenient location and excellent consider as awhy home There are hundreds of reasons you easy decision for any business venture. easy decision f for your business... ge businesses to invest andshould consider Rossendale measures and support designed to encourage businesses to invest and as a home landscapes, Rossendale has extensive for your business... planning and consider licensing advice,Rossendale grow here.

ThisBridge, includes business rates to relief, planning and licensing advice, nections to world classbusiness... supply should as a home From Whitworth to Rising Crawshawbooth Edenfield, Rossendale From Whitwor for your nning Rossendale Works In employability support throughof our award winning Rossendale Works has communities, a reputation for attracting a portfolio world class companies like JJO, a reputatio the heart of the countryside, our welcoming desirable quality offerings for those who want tohasinvest for your business... nsIn and our positively received programme, and sessions andsuch our as positively received ns, friendly communities and of our living and closecommunities, links to big cities make quality choosing Rossendale yourbespoke basePies, an workshops Orthoplastics and as Holland’s as well as boutique brands Deni-Deni Orthoplastics the heart of the countryside, welcoming desirable such as our Red Carpet Scheme. for business venture. of living and close links to bigeasy cities make of choosing Rossendale your base an In thedecision heart theany countryside, desirable quality the borough. andcommunities, Sundayinitiatives Best. and Sunday Be dable properties provide a ouraswelcoming

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Business rates relief scheme regenerate the Lancashire West business and oftocourse theget location, the ground or contribute to your excellent relationships to landscape the wider easygrowth, accessand to aNorth range of Council support, developed help you off area.

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Rossendale will help your business flourish.

Land available with bespoke design & b Lancashire and North West business landscape and of course the location, Business rates relief scheme the ground or contribute to your growth, excellent relationships to the wider

urable setting for any company.

ucture vital for growing business.

Rossendale will help your business flourish.

our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

ad gives a flavour of what promises to be very exciting for ve d grow your business. We hope to

We have also identified manyBusiness development businesses ratesopportunities reliefbespoke schemefor Property & land searches available with design & build solutions to benefit from. Our map on Land the centre spread gives a flavour of what Land available with bespoke design & build solutions Business rates relief scheme those opportunities are. The next few years promises to be very exciting for Land available with bespoke design & build solutions Rossendale. It is a great placeProperty to invest&inland and searches grow your business. We hope toPlanning & licensing advice Property & soon. land searches hear from you Land available with bespoke design & build solutions

Lancashire and North West business landscape and of course the location, opportunities forhelp businesses ve Rossendale will your business flourish.

If you would like to know more about these sites, please contact us on

01706 252480 or email economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

TUART SUGARMAN hief Executive ossendale Borough Council

@investinross vestinrossendale.com

Business rates relief scheme

Property & licensing land searches Planning & advice Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment Planning & licensing advice Property & land searches Planning & licensing advice Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment scheme Business workshops, events & network Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment scheme Planning & licensing advice Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment scheme Business workshops, events & networking opportunities Business workshops, events networking opportunities Linking you to our support partners Soft Landing & Red Carpet&Treatment scheme Business workshops, events & networking opportunities Linking you to our support partners Linking you workshops, to our support partners Business events & networking opportunities Employability help Linking you to help our support partners Employability If you would like to know more about Employability help Linking you to our support partners School enterprise initiatives Employability helpinitiatives these sites, please contact us on School enterprise

School enterprise initiatives Employability help School enterprise initiatives Innovative projects around Rossendal Innovative projects around Rossendale ALYSON BARNES STUART SUGARMAN Innovative projects around Rossendale School Leader of theenterprise Council initiatives Chief Executive Innovative around Rossendaleyour success stories Promoting projects your business & celebrating Promoting your business & celebrating Rossendale Borough Council or email Promoting your business & celebrating your success stories economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk Innovative projects around Rossendale Promoting your business & celebrating your success stories

01706 252480

Promoting your business & celebrating your success stories

01706 252 480

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

@investinross www.investinrossendale.com

01706 252 480

Econo

28

SUPPLEMENT: INVEST IN ROSSENDALE

Development Opportunities

LOVECLO 5.2 HA AVAILABLE IN PREMIER LOCATION

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HASLINGDEN

HAS RAWTENSTALL

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4

residents. much our priority. We are committed to making your business the best it can

st, vibrant market be. and Whether you are thinking of moving to the borough or are already based incredible views and remarkable In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale EDENFIELD Thehigh convenient location and The c5 here, our extensive range ofexcellent support adds value to any business. We are as up and coming food and drink measures andtosupport designed to encourag passionate about our businesses as we are about our residents.

We want landscapes, Rossendale has extensive grow here. relief, scene with £15m for connections toinvested world classthrive. supply conn 5 This includes business rates help your business employability support through our award win future developments. offerings for those who want to invest in Our Council has recently adopted an Economic Growth Strategy. It lays the

programme, bespoke workshops and session chains, friendly communities and chain foundations of how this Council makes Rossendale one of the most business initiatives such as our Red Carpet Scheme. the borough. friendly boroughs in the country as well as creating high quality jobs for our affordable properties afford residents. provide a M66to boosting skills We are committed in the ar education partners and Lancashire County C In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale programme, a package of The convenient location and excellentsetting for any company. favourable favou DESIGN & BUILD measures and support designed to encourage businesses to invest and good skills mix in the borough so businesses PROPOSED VALLEY-CITY RAIL LINK

connections PLOTS TO YOUR SPECIFICATION

to world class supply chains, friendly communities and affordable properties provide a favourable setting for any company.

grow here. This includes business rates relief, planning andright licensing advice, people from the local area. employability support through our award winning Rossendale Works We have an excellent track record and we cer MODERN programme, bespoke workshops and sessions and our positively received bringing in new funding which has helped tra TOWNinitiatives CENTREsuch as our Red Carpet Scheme.

regenerate the area.

UNITS WeFROM are committed to boosting skills in the area and work closely with education partners and Lancashire County Council to ensure is a 1,356 Wethat havethere successfully brought in millions of p good they can get theour roads and our infrastru our town centres, 10,882 SQskills FT mix in the borough so businesses can be confident right people from the local area.

We have also identified many development o

We have an excellent track record and we certainly buck the national trend, to benefit from. Our map on the centre sprea bringing in new funding which has helped transform our borough and those opportunities are. The next few years p regenerate the area.

Rossendale. It is a great place to invest in and

We have successfully brought in millions of pounds worth hear of funding improve from to you soon. our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

We have also identified many development opportunities for businesses to benefit from. Our map on the centre spread gives a flavour of what those opportunities are. The next few years promises to be very exciting for Rossendale. It is a great place to invest in and grow your business. We hope to hear from you soon.

2

If you would like to know more about these sites, please contact us on

Futures Park

Futures Park has the opportunity to be developed for commercial, retail and leisure uses. Plots available from 10,000 sq ft to 80,000 sq ft.

HASLINGDEN

01706 252480

3 about Spinning Point If you would like to know more

A cobbled high st, famous for

The site, which is next to Rossendale Borough these sites, please contactExciting us on retail and leisure opportunities in the its prize winning bakeries with Council offices, is well placed on the outskirts of thriving Rawtenstall Town Centre. or email unique shops all in walking the historic mill town, Bacup. It is conveniently located next to Stubbylee and Moorlands park, at A brand new living,economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk working and cultural leisure distance of Rossendale’s ALYSON BARNES the heart of Lee Quarry Mountain Bike Trails and destination in the heart of the town. Brand new landmark, The Halo. Leader of the Council can easily be accessed from Rochdale, Burnley, units available from Summer 2019 as part of a or email Todmorden and Bury. £15m project, complementing the brand new bus station and refurbishment to the former town hall. economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk ALYSON BARNES STUART SUGARMAN Leader of the Council Chief Executive Rossendale Borough Council

01706 252480

www.investinrossendale.com

01706 252 480

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

www.investinrossendale.com

01706 252 480

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

www.investinrossendale.com

01706 252 480

@investinross

ST Ch Ro

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk www.inv @investinross

WHY ROSSENDAL W 29

June 2019

Keighley

WHY ROSSENDALE? Blackpool

7.54 HA Only a stone’s COMBINED EARMARKED FOR OUGH LOVECLOUGH throw from DEVELOPMENT Rossendale is a borough on the up and is a Manchester, WATER WATER reat to do business and over tWBOOTH place CRAWSHAWBOOTH WEIR Preston andthe next WEIR ew pages in this supplement we show you why. why.

Leeds.

Only a stone’s

Burnley

Preston

Keighley

Blackpool

Burnley

Preston

Blackburn

Bradford

Blackburn

Halifax

Bolton

Rochdale Bury

Wigan

MANCHESTER

LEEDS

Brad

Only 10mthro2 Man Pres Leed

Halifax

Hudders

LIVERPOOL throw from 10m 20m 30m 4 SLINGDEN Rossendale is a borough RAWTENSTALL Manchester, BACUP BACUP uncil, business growth is very As Leader and the Chief Executive of the Council, business growth is very eking from its the breath-taking scenery, your business best it can much our priority. We are committed to making your business the best it can great place to do busines Preston and he borough or are already based be. Whether you are thinking of moving to the borough or are already based dible views and remarkable WATERFOOT WATERFOOT 2 There here, There a areourhundreds reasons you lue to any business.

We are as extensive range of of support adds value towhy any business.

We are as MANCHESTER few pages in this supplem Leeds. about our residents. We3 want to passionate about our businesses as we are about our residents.

We want to scapes, Rossendale has extensive Warrington

Bolton

Rochdale

Huddersfield

Bury

Wigan

4 Carrs Industrial Estate & Hud Hey should should consider Rossendale as a home your business thrive.

A681 2 help Warrington SHEFFIELD ings for who want to invest in your Directly off the the motorway link network in 1 those mic Growth Strategy.

It lays the Our Council has recently adopted an Economic Growth Strategy.

It lays for your for business...

STACKSTEADS STACKSTEADS Carrs industrial estate and Hud Hey endale one of the most business foundations of how this Council makes Rossendale one ofHaslingden, the most business A56quality jobs for our has a mix of for office borough. reating high friendly boroughs in the country as well as creating high quality ourand industrial units, with an Asidejobs from its breath-taking scenery, LIVERPOOL A681

existing large base of science and manufacturing

In the heartresidents. of the countryside, our welcoming communities, desirable quality In the heart of companies. of living and close links to big cities make choosing Rossendale as your base an of living and cl e programme, a package of In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale programme, a package of EDENFIELD The already large and desirable location of Hud Hey easy decision for any business venture. easy decision f ge businesses to invest and measures and support designed to encourage businesses to invest and FACIT FACIT & Carrs Industrial Estate has plans to be extended planning and licensing advice, grow here.

ThisBridge, includes business rates to relief, planning and licensing advice, From Whitworth to Rising Crawshawbooth Edenfield, Rossendale From Whitwor further as part of Rossendale’s local plan with nning Rossendale Works employability support throughof our award winning Rossendale Works has a reputation for attracting a portfolio world class companies like JJO, has a reputatio classes for B1, B2, and B8 all just off the slip road ns and our positively received programme, bespoke and sessions andsuch our as positively received Orthoplastics and Holland’s Pies,workshops as well as boutique brands Deni-Deni Orthoplastics on the A56. such as our Red Carpet Scheme. and Sundayinitiatives Best. and Sunday Be M66 In the heart the countryside, our welcoming communities, desirableCompetitively-priced quality rea and workofclosely with We are committed to boosting skills in the area and work closely with employment sites and retail units bursting with charm, Competitively of living closethat linksthere to big is cities as your base an education partners WHITWORTH Council toand ensure a make choosing RossendaleWHITWORTH andsupport, Lancashire Countyto Council to ensure easy access to a range of Council developed help you get off that there is a easy access to easybe decision for any business venture. can confident they can get the skills mixtoinyour the borough so businesses can be confident they can get the the ground good or contribute growth, excellent relationships to the wider the ground or people frombusiness the locallandscape area.

From Whitworth to Rising Bridge, Crawshawbooth to Edenfield, Rossendale 2.81 HA Lancashire right and North West and of course the location, Lancashire and has a reputation for attracting a portfolio of world class companies likeRossendale JJO, AVAILABLE willhave help an your business flourish.

Rossendale wi rtainly buck the national trend, We excellent track record and we certainly buck the national trend, Orthoplastics and Holland’s Pies, as well as boutique brands such as Deni-Deni 15 ansform our borough and bringing in new funding which has helped transform our boroughLESS and THANBusiness and Sunday Best. rates relief scheme MILES FROM regenerate the area.

5 There are hundreds convenient locationofand excellent reasons why you nections to worldRossendale class supply should consider as a home forfriendly your business... ns, communities and dable properties provide a urable setting for any company.

Competitively-priced employment sites and retail units bursting with charm,

pounds worthtoofa funding to improve easy access range of Council support, developed to help you get off the ground or contribute to your growth, excellent relationships to the wider ucture vital for growing business.

Lancashire and North West business landscape and of course the location, opportunities forhelp businesses Rossendale will your business flourish.

ad gives a flavour of what promises to be very exciting for d grow your business. We hope to

incredible views and remarkable landscapes, Rossendale has extensive offerings for those who want to invest the borough.

The convenient location and excellent connections to world class supply chains, friendly communities and affordable properties provide a MANCHESTER We have successfully brought in millions of pounds worth of funding to improve favourable setting for any company.

Land available with bespoke design & b BACUP our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

We have also identified development A charming millmany town rich in opportunities for businesses Property & land searches to benefit from. Our map on the centre spread gives a flavour of what architecture and heritage set ratesare. relief thoseBusiness opportunities Thescheme next few years promises to be very exciting for in a stunning location withinbig Rossendale.

It is a great place to invest and grow your business. We hope toPlanning & licensing advice hear investment from you soon.

Land availableplans with bespoke design & build solutions to support

the Bacup 2040 Vision.

Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment

Planning & licensing advice

Business workshops, events & network

Soft Landing & Red Carpet Treatment scheme

Linking you to our support partners

Property & land searches

If you would like to know more about these sites, please contact us on

If you would like to know more about Business workshops, events & networking opportunities Employability help 5 Mayfield Chicks, Ewood Bridge these sites, please contact us on

01706 252480 01706 252480

Linking you to our support partners

or email economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

TUART SUGARMAN hief Executive ossendale Borough Council

@investinross vestinrossendale.com

Employability help

If you would like to know more about

Earmarked for extension within the proposed local enterprise initiatives sites,just please contact us on plan, this site is these well- School placed off the A56 near Edenfield, less than 15 miles from Manchester.

01706 252480

Innovative Already with established businessesprojects on the site,around Rossendal or email ALYSON BARNES STUART SUGARMAN there are plans to extend it by 2.81 hectares, with School Leader of theenterprise Council initiatives Chief ExecutiveB1, B2 and B8 planning classes. economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk Promoting your business & celebrating or email Rossendale Borough Council

Innovative projects around Rossendale

economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

Promoting your business & celebrating your success stories

01706 252 480

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

@investinross www.investinrossendale.com

01706 252 480

Econo

A tailored approach to meet your business needs In November 2018, Nelson and Colne College and Accrington and Rossendale College completed a successful merger to create a single college, building on the strengths of both institutions to ensure the highest quality education and technical skills for all.

The success of our local communities, employers, partners and economy sits at the heart of all we do. We have forged valuable partnerships and a shared vision with like-minded organisations and individuals, creating a network of opportunity and excellence.

The newly-merged College now offers over 90 Apprenticeship frameworks and standards that can also be delivered within the workplace to upskill existing employees within the following sectors: Business and Finance

Manufacturing

Hair and Beauty

Sales, Marketing and Procurement

Engineering

Catering and Hospitality

Digital and IT

Health and Social Care

Sport and Leisure

Leadership and Management

Education and Childcare

Construction

Retail

Facilities Management

Motor Vehicle

The best investment you can make for your business We believe that Apprenticeships can significantly improve the performance of every business. They are a highly respected and cost effective way of delivering training and professional development to employees by combining relevant and recognised qualifications with innovative, high quality, practical training solutions. Apprenticeships ensure that the workforce develops the technical knowledge and practical skills that your business needs both now and in the future.

NUMBER

ONE in the coun

try

16-18 TIME for LY APPREN TICE

ACHIEVEM SHIP ENT

at all levels

What makes Apprenticeships and training with us unique?

We have a long and proud reputation with businesses across East Lancashire and beyond, and employers choose us because we make sure our Apprenticeships and training are flexible and tailored to meet business needs. Examples of what we can offer include:

Bespoke workshops

Toolbox talks

Short courses such as First Aid and Health and Safety

Leadership and Management qualifications

Apprenticeships by Nelson and Colne College and Accrington and Rossendale College are dynamic and are shaped by the power of three: the college, the employer and the Apprentice.

Rosslee Construction Managing Director Gary Clarkson (centre) pictured with Principal Amanda Melton and Apprentice Oliver Shipston.

Gary Clarkson, Managing Director at Rosslee Construction, said: “We’ve been employing Apprentices from Accrington and Rossendale College for over 30 years as they are valued assets to the company, who contribute greatly to its performance.

“We will always have first, second and third year Apprentices as they are integral to the success of the business.

We ensure that all Apprentices have first-class support, a highly experienced Trainer Assessor and that each business has a dedicated Account Manager as a key point of contact throughout the partnership.

“When an Apprentice progresses to Level 3, they are skilled professionals that play a pivotal role within the company. Watching an Apprentice grow into a skilled tradesman is extremely satisfying.

Our results are reflected by the time and commitment we put in to ensuring there is a cultural match between Apprentice and employer – and this has ensured our Apprenticeship achievement rates are consistently 20% above the national average.

“One of the site managers started out as a College Apprentice, so there are always progression opportunities after completing an Apprenticeship.”

For more information contact our Apprenticeships Team today on: 01282 440 319

apprenticeships@nelson.ac.uk

www.nelson.ac.uk

www.accross.ac.uk

W 31

June 2019

Beta Group MD reflects on the Only thro success of the Bacup Townscape Rossendale is a borough on the up and is a Man reatHeritage place to do business and over the next Pres Initiative

ew pages in this supplement we show you why.

THE Bacup Townscape Heritage Initiative is a of the Bacup Townscape Heritage Initiative.

five-year project, which aims to provide training in traditional building skills and to facilitate activities and events for local people. The initiative, involving of local figures, including business e froma committee its breath-taking scenery, leaders and councillors, has worked across Bacup dible to views remarkable refurbishand buildings in the town centre, improve properties and enhance the publicextensive realm. scapes, With Rossendale has the project drawing to a close, committee ings for those want Director to invest member Martinwho Lewis, Managing of Bacupin businessBeta Group, has reflected on the fantastic borough. work done across the town, as a result of the £2m lottery-funded initiative and the ongoing successes

convenient location and excellent nections to world class supply ns, friendly communities and dable properties provide a urable setting for any company.

Leed

Martin, said: “I’m proud to have represented Beta Group and the wider Bacup business community on the board of the Bacup Townscape Heritage As Leader thethe Chief Executive the Council, business growth is very Initiative.

Theand work initiative hasofdone has made much our priority. We are committed to making your business the best it can Bacup more attractive place for individuals be.aWhether you are thinking ofboth moving to the borough or are already based and businesses.

There a here, our extensive range of support adds value to any business. We are as passionate businesses as we are about Founded in about 1987, our Beta Group specialises in our residents. We want to should your spray business thrive. air fihelp ltration, booths and building services. accessories and parts.

Our Council recentlyat adopted the “I have learned a great deal about Employing overhas 60 people its baseaninEconomic Bacup, asGrowth Strategy.

MartinIt lays added: for your foundations of how this Council makes Rossendale one of the most business well as engineers located across the UK, the firm the town, its heritage and people and I am delighted friendly boroughs in the country as well as creating high quality jobs for our services and maintains spray booths for the surface to have played a small in making Bacup, a better Aside from itspart breath-taking scenery, residents.

In the heart of coating industry, as well as supplying associated and more vibrant place to work and live.” of living and cl

Rossendale is a borough great place to do busines few pages in this supplem

incredible views and remarkable easy decision f landscapes, Rossendale has extensive From Whitwor a reputatio offerings for those who want tohasinvest Orthoplastics the borough. and Sunday Be

In 2017, we launched our Invest in Rossendale programme, a package of measures and support designed to encourage businesses to invest and grow here. This includes business rates relief, planning and licensing advice, employability support through our award winning Rossendale Works programme, bespoke workshops and sessions and our positively received initiatives such as our Red Carpet Scheme.

We are committed to boosting skills in the area and work closely with education partners and Lancashire County Council to ensure that there is a good skills mix in the borough so businesses can be confident they can get the right people from the local area.

Competitively

The convenient location and excellent easy access to the ground or connections to world class supply Lancashire and Rossendale wi We have an excellent track record and we certainly buckchains, the nationalfriendly trend, communities and bringing in new funding which has helped transform our borough and affordable properties provide a regenerate the area.

We have successfully brought in millions of pounds worth of funding to improve favourable setting for any company. our town centres, our roads and our infrastructure vital for growing business.

We have also identified many development opportunities for businesses to benefit from. Our map on the centre spread gives a flavour of what those opportunities are. The next few years promises to be very exciting for Rossendale. It is a great place to invest in and grow your business. We hope to hear from you soon.

If you would like to know more about these sites, please contact us on

01706 252480 or email economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

vestinrossendale.com

If you would like to know more about these sites, please contact us on

ALYSON BARNES Leader of the Council

01706 252480

STUART SUGARMAN Chief Executive Rossendale Borough Council or email

economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

01706 252 480

Economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk

@investinross www.investinrossendale.com

01706 252 480

Econo

19 0 W 2 NO July

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A development by:

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Viewings/All Enquiries: Tim Letts Direct - 0161 242 8068 Mobile - 07990 516 673

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

£2.3 million tech investment into Manchester announced DUTCH-owned software provider, TOPdesk has announced a further £2.3 million investment into its Manchester operations.

It comes as the UK tops the world ranking for inward investment, having over-taken the USA, which previously held the number 1 spot since 2014.

TOPdesk creates service management software and is based in Delft. It has been in Manchester since 2014 and has announced a substantial expansion in the city.

Its new hub was unveiled at premium business location, City Tower, building upon its initial investment in the city centre over the past five years.

The business’s expansion in the Manchester area was supported by the Department for International Trade (DIT) in partnership with the region’s inward investment agency MIDAS. The expansion in the city represents plans to solidify the Manchester office as its UK growth hub in tandem with its London office. The larger site will allow the company to meet its growing client list in the area and take advantage of Manchester’s competitive operating costs, skilled graduate population and community of tech innovation professionals.

The new office replaces previous premises in Barclay House, providing a larger space with the potential to create around 40 new jobs, adding to the 750+ people currently employed across 10 countries.

Recent OECD figures show that by the end of 2018, the UK had more investment stock than Germany, Spain and Poland combined.

This represents the attractiveness of the UK as a destination for foreign investment, which reached a record high of $1,890 billion by the end of 2018.

Graham Stuart MP, Minister for Investment said: “TOPdesk’s new expansion in Manchester is a further sign of the city’s growing tech talent.

Increasingly the world’s biggest tech names are looking to the North of England to invest and are

solidifying the UK’s position as undisputed tech leader in Europe.”

“Our tech sector earned £6.3 billion in venture capital investment in 2018, contributing to our position as the top destination for FDI flow in the world”.

David Cape-Brown, Branch Manager & Head of Recruitment at TOPdesk UK said: “Our TOPdesk adventure in Manchester has been hugely rewarding so far and location has been a key ingredient of the continued growth of our customer base here in the UK. “Excellent trade fairs like the IP Expo at Manchester Central and superb Universities with a fresh supply of top talented graduates is integral to our networking and recruitment success.

“Our Northern hub has amplified our powerhouse status within the software industry and facilitated the positive impact of TOPdesk events such as SEE and TOPdesk on Tour.”

Tim Newns, CEO of MIDAS said: “Since helping TOPdesk establish operations in Manchester in 2014, we have continued to work closely with the team to embed them within the city region’s diverse cluster of innovative tech companies and establish a reputation as a leading, Northern software firm.

“As well as being responsible for attracting new business investment to Greater Manchester, MIDAS also helps existing companies grow within the region and TOPdesk is a shining example of how we can help international firms tap into Greater Manchester’s academic and professional resources, as well as the city’s deep talent pool, in order to thrive here.”

33

Altrincham agencies team up for Greater Manchester Walking Festival 2019 TWO Altrincham-based creative agencies teamed up to brand and publicise this year’s Greater Manchester Walking Festival, which ran throughout May 2019. PR and content agency Scribble worked on the publicity and social media for the event while, design and marketing agency Sunny Thinking created the branding, festival literature and digital presence.

The event was organised by Greater Manchester Moving in partnership with Transport for Greater Manchester. The festival team approached Sunny Thinking to create a simple website, the branding and design the marketing material, including the festival brochure, literature, and outdoor advertising. Sunny Thinking brought Scribble onboard as a communications partner.

As part of the ambition to make Greater Manchester the first ‘Walking Region’ in the UK, the festival was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the great walking opportunities and groups there are in Greater Manchester. The festival aimed to encourage residents to get out and walk more often.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have been worked on this year’s Greater Manchester Walking Festival.

The branding was fun and engaging and was aimed to inspire people of all fitness levels to just grab a pair of trainers and explore their local area and reconnect with friends and neighbours. We’ve really enjoyed working on the event and it fits well with our agency ethos of health and wellbeing,” added Jonathan Reed, managing director of Sunny Thinking.

Helen Dugdale, founder of PR and content agency Scribble said: “As a proud Mancunian, it’s been great to promote the delights of what Greater Manchester has to offer in walks. It‘s natural to overlook what’s on right under your nose, so helping people to fall in love again with walks on their doorstep has been really inspiring. Scribble has handled the PR for a wide range of events and the GM Walking Festival has been one of our favourites.”

34 INTERNATIONAL

The Blackmore Group opens Dubai office

REAL estate investment house The Blackmore Group has opened a Dubai office and plans to launch others in Japan and Hong Kong this year to expand its international presence.

CEO and founder of The Blackmore Group Phillip Nunn said the Dubai, Japan and Hong Kong offices will promote opportunities for international investors to invest in UK real estate.

It will also see the launch of the Manchester-based real estate company’s Blackmore Bond to an international market.

The Dubai office will provide a marketing and administration function and will be a focal point for international business partners and investors to discover the opportunities provided by The Blackmore Group through its Bond.

The office located at Jumeirah Lake Towers is led by Mark Aitchison, head of International for The Blackmore Group. Mark has worked in Dubai for 11 years, previously working with UK property and investment companies helping bridge the gap between the

UK and global markets. He has built strong networks across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Africa and South America.

The rapidly expanding company also has its sights on Japan and Hong Kong. The Tokyo office opened in May and Hong Kong later this year, will see The Blackmore Group continue its push in Asian markets to attract international investors.

Mark Aitchison, head of International for The Blackmore Group, said: “We are expanding our operations to meet the increasing demand from international investors.

There is a lot of appetite in these markets to invest in UK property.

“Fixed income is a hot topic right now for global investors. Dubai acts as the International HQ due to its location, time zone and transport links.”

Phillip Nunn, CEO and founder of The Blackmore Group, added: “The Blackmore Group’s Dubai office will be the focal point for investors in Dubai and the Middle East to reach out to the UK real estate market.

Hong Kong will focus on China and further afield.”

Built on an institutional model, The Blackmore Group is a dynamic company capable of maximising market opportunities by combining a blend of investment management experience and real estate expertise.

In 2017, the Group launched the Blackmore Bond to invest in UK property development and has completed 18 projects. A further £200m worth of developments are in the pipeline for the Manchester-based

property company.

The Bond offers investors the opportunity to be part of The Blackmore Group’s growth. The fixed bonds provide strong, fixed returns, with investors receiving security over the assets of the company.

Property entrepreneur Nunn added: “Having grown rapidly, we are committed and equipped to build The Blackmore Group into one of the largest and most innovative firms in real estate investment management.”

Palletower launches first European office MANCHESTER-based logistics equipment provider, Palletower, has announced it is to open its first European office.

The office will be based in Bilovec, in the Czech Republic and run by new European Sales Manager, Ian Baldock.

Ian is Palletower’s first full-time

employee outside the UK and will lead the company’s operations in Central and Eastern Europe.

With export sales in excess of £5 million per year and major contracts in Western Europe, Australia and South America expansion into Central and Eastern Europe is seen as the next logical step for the ever-growing business.

The announcement follows a record-breaking year for Palletower.

Last year, it reported a turnover of £22 million, an increase of £8m since its management buyout in 2012.

Ian said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and one I’m relishing. Palletower is a global business that works with some of world’s biggest brands. I’m confident with my knowledge of the marketplace and wealth of contacts within the industry I can help expand its client portfolio in Europe and contribute to the company’s continued growth.”

Britain’s future in the European Union has been the subject of much debate in recent months but this hasn’t deterred the company’s plans for expansion.

Matthew Palmer, Managing Director at Palletower, said: “There is obviously a lot of uncertainty surrounding the Brexit process, but this hasn’t impacted the demand for Palletower products across Europe.

We’ve seen an increase in enquiries over recent months and because of this we believe it is the right time to establish a presence on the continent.

As a business we’re constantly identifying new markets for expansion and we see Central and Eastern Europe as areas of particular focus in the coming years.”

INTERNATIONAL

35

BDB appointed for Vitafoods Europe 2019

GLOBAL full-service B2B marketing consultancy, BDB has been appointed to provide PR, content, social media and event management support for Vitafoods Europe 2019, following a competitive pitch process. Held in Geneva, Vitafoods is the goto meeting place for the global nutraceutical industry and is owned

by Informa, the world’s largest exhibitions organiser.

In its role as the event’s official PR agency, BDB is primarily

responsible for generating an engaged visitor audience and has also been tasked with positioning Vitafoods as a place where people can learn more about the industry.

As an integral part of this activity, BDB is delivering an influencer campaign that will see key stakeholders in the nutrition, health and wellness markets take part in a lively debate around the hottest trends and future predictions for the sector.

Daniela Elia, Head of

Marketing, Vitafoods, Informa Markets said: “BDB came to us highly recommended by other businesses in the health and nutrition industry and they really got under the skin of the brief during the pitch. The campaigns have got off to an excellent start, and we’re excited to have the team on board as we continue to shape the food industry for optimal health through science and innovation.”

Jenny Mason, Executive Director

of BDB, said: “BDB has been working at the heart of the food ingredients and nutrition sector for much of our 30-year history and it’s inspiring to be working with Vitafoods to evolve its position as the voice of the industry.

“With many of our multinational clients exhibiting at the show, including DSM and Lonza, our team will be out in full force in Geneva to support our growing roster of health and nutrition brands.”

36 ACQUISITIONS

U.S Manufacturer acquires Manchester paper straw firm

HOFFMASTER Group, Inc, a leading U.S. manufacturer of premium disposable tableware, has announced the acquisition of Manchester-based The Paper Straw Co, the U.K.’s first paper straw manufacturer. This agreement increases Hoffmaster’s ability to service the U.K. and European markets in an efficient and effective manner.

Co-Founders Geert Pijper and Ilesh Mawji launched The Paper Straw Co in April 2018 in response to the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to single-use plastic straws. In 2018, the U.K. and the European Union announced its ban of single-use plastics, including straws, which goes into effect in 2021. The Paper Straw Co provides U.K. and European customers with the opportunity to purchase paper straws made locally.

“At The Paper Straw Co, we manufacture sturdy paper straws made up of certified raw materials. Rather than shipping them thousands of miles away, which would reduce their environmental credentials, we serve local customers in our own backyard,” said Pijper. “Joining Hoffmaster presents excellent opportunities for our business. Hoffmaster’s 75+ years of experience in the foodservice industry has given them the necessary expertise, equipment and resources to ensure that our customers will continue to receive exceptional service and the highest quality products on the market.”

Hoffmaster also operates Aardvark Straws, the world’s leading paper straw manufacturer based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and its own line of paper straws.

The Paper Straw Co will remain under the same banner. Pijper and Mawji will continue to run the business, while all employees will continue to work for the company in Manchester. This acquisition will provide both Hoffmaster and The Paper Straw Co with the ability to better serve their European customers by increasing the U.K.’s manufacturing capacity and production of paper straws.

In order to produce the best quality straws in the U.K., Hoffmaster will apply the same methodology that is used for Aardvark Straws, often referred to as the strongest paper straws on the market, to The Paper Straw Co straws.

“We are thrilled to be working closely with The Paper Straw Co team to progress in our mission to solve our world’s plastic pollution crisis and serve as a reliable supply source for European businesses, restaurants, and venues seeking durable paper straws,” said Andy Romjue, president of Hoffmaster’s Foodservice Division. “This acquisition is a strategic and important addition to the portfolio of Hoffmaster brands. It expands our global footprint into the U.K. and also allows us to reach our international customers conveniently while improving our customer service experience.”

37

AUTOMOTIVE STORIES IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE NAA

5753-LUni-EnginE-Advert-184x130.qxp_Layout 1 21/05/2019 14:49 Page 1

NAA Launch Training Hub THE Northern Automotive Alliance is introducing a whole new suite of training courses at the launch event of their ‘Training Hub’ - and it’s not just NAA members who are invited to attend! The event takes place on Thursday 6th June, 9:30am to 12:00pm at GEFCO (Speke, Liverpool), and features presentations from Training Providers, on a range of courses that are not only specific to the automotive sector.

NAA’s Chief Executive, Rowan Egan explains: “The NAA have traditionally focussed only on technical training courses, which are extremely important for an automotive supply chain which demands high levels of quality, measurement, auditing and control.”

“Responding to our member’s needs, the NAA continues to grow it’s training portfolio that supports the development of staff in a wide range of skills. It is only by investing in people will you futureproof your business, improve performance and increase productivity.”

The launch event gives delegates the opportunity to hear bite-sized descriptions from the trainers themselves, courses which include; • ‘How to be an effective leader’, in partnership with Dale Carnegie. A 3-day programme (spread over 3 months) designed to empower and enable line managers to do the leadership side of their role more effectively. Cost: £1500 per delagte.

• ‘Project Fundamentals Qualification’ and ‘Project Management Qualification’, in partnership with Blackpool & Fylde College. 2-day and 6-day courses respectively, both Association of Project Management Corporate accredited training. Cost: £635 and £1600 per delegate, respectively.

• Cyber Security Awareness and GDPR Staff Awareness, in partnership with Amica Interactive. Cost: from £25 per license.

• Digital Literacy, MS Office, in partnership with Keys Training. 1-day beginner and advanced courses available.

Cost: £175 and £195 per delegate, respectively.

Productivity Upskilling: Growing your Lancashire Manufacturing SME through workforce skills

European Social Fund

EnginE@lancaster.ac.uk • 01524 510194 • lancaster.ac.uk/EnginE • Digital Literacy, ‘IN4.0 Access’, in partnership with IN4.0. A 6-day programme (spread over 3 months) designed as a manufacturing accelerator programme that empowers businesses to start, scale and succeed in industry 4.0. Cost: £1350 per delegate.

• Finance for Non-Finance Professionals. 1-day, delivered

by NAA. Cost: £350 per delegate.

The training providers have been engaged and selected through reputation and recommendation, each having an excellent track record working in the automotive sector and beyond. The NAA has partnered with these providers, as an honest, unbiased broker, negotiating ‘not-for-profit’, discounted prices.

The NAA will also continue to deliver it’s already established technical training courses, which include; • APQP/PPAP; Advanced Product Quality Planning /

• • • •

Production Part Approval Process.

1-day, Cost: £350 per delegate.

FMEA; Failure Mode Effects Analysis.

1-day, £350 per delegate.

IATF 16949:2016 Internal Auditor Training.

2-day, £650 per delegate.

MSA; Measurement Systems Analysis.

1-day, £350 per delegate.

SPC; Statistical Process Control.

1-day, £350 per delegate.

Please note all the courses mentioned above are subject to vat and are listed at NAA member rates.

To attend the NAA Training Hub launch event, or for any training inquiries, please contact zoe@ northernautoalliance.com.

EnginE – Productivity Upskilling in Lancashire ADVANCED engineering and manufacturing SME’s in Lancashire can now benefit from funded upskilling and workforce planning support via the EnginE programme.

EnginE can assist your business to maximise your workforce’s potential, support you to source and plan affordable training and development solutions, and demonstrate the impact higher level skills and apprenticeships can have on your business productivity and growth.

Higher level skills and apprenticeships aren’t just for school-leavers and young people; they can now be used throughout the workforce to upskill existing staff. In a recent report*, 78 per cent of businesses say apprentices improved productivity in their business; 74 per cent say they have improved product or service quality; and 65 per cent believed they had brought new ideas into their business, yet many businesses are still not maximising the benefits they can bring.

EnginE helps you to bring these benefits to your business in a package to suit your business needs, by working with you to create a bespoke skills plan which will map out their skills requirements, across all business areas, supporting employees of all ages and

all levels of the business; providing access to funded short taster courses for you and your teams in over 30 specialisms; and access to skilled internships.

Short course titles range from leadership, project management, contract law, and process improvement; through to a range of engineering specialisms for both automotive and aerospace sectors, 3D CAD design and orthographic projects, prototyping and design. The project can also fund undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate internships to demonstrate the impact of higher-level skills in action.

Lancashire SMEs can find out more about what is on offer and how to get involved through a series of events held in different locations around Lancashire over the coming months. All EnginE activities are free to attend for Lancashire-based Advanced Engineering Manufacturers.

To find out more about this funded project, please contact martina.rodrigues@ northernautoalliance.com *Apprenticeships Evaluation 2017: Employers Research Report, IFF Research

For more information on the NAA and the NAA Training Hub, please visit the NAA website at Northernautoalliance.com/skills-training

38 TRANSPORT

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester named regional dealer of the year AFTER investing millions of pounds in relocating to a state of the art dealership on Wilmslow Road, Wilmslow eighteen months ago. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester has been awarded the accolade of the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Dealer of the Year for 2018.

The prestigious award covering the UK, Western & Southern Europe including Russia category, was presented at the brand’s 2019 Global Dealer Conference held in Shanghai.

The award is presented to dealers on a worldwide basis covering a number of measurements including, sales, ownership services, customer satisfaction, parts, people and training. Manchester beat a total of 18 Rolls-Royce Motor

Cars Dealerships spanning throughout Europe to claim their award following a fantastic first year of trading at its new innovative facility.

Commenting on the award, Jon Crossley, Managing Director of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Manchester, said: “This is the third time in 8 years we have won this amazing award, previously in 2010 and 2011 and I am absolutely delighted! I want to thank all of my team for working so hard to establish our new facility in our first year of trading. We have proved that Manchester continues to be such an important location for the Rolls-Royce marque and we remain proud of the fact that for every four cars sold in the UK, one of them is from our dealership in Manchester.”

MAG secures £350m in UK bond market

MAG, the UK’s leading airport group, has successfully raised £350m in the UK capital markets through the issuance of a 25 year bond, at a competitive interest rate coupon of 2.875%. MAG has disclosed that the order book for the bond was four times oversubscribed, totalling c.£1.4bn.

MAG plans to use the

proceeds of the bond to fund the significant and transformational capital investment programmes that the Group is undertaking at its airports as well as for general corporate purposes.

For example, the Manchester Airport Transformation Programme (MAN-TP) is well underway, having started in 2017,

with a new pier and multistorey car park, as part of an expanding Terminal 2, now fully operational. Overall, the £1 billion programme of work will allow the airport to serve more passengers in its terminals and make fuller use of its current runway capacity.

Neil Thompson, Chief Financial Officer for MAG, said: “The success of the bond

is a testament to the strong financial performance of the Group over several years.

The bond was supported by almost all the key blue-chip UK institutional investors and demonstrates the confidence those investors have in the future growth strategy for MAG and its track record.

“Our significant investment at Manchester

and London Stansted airports, which is already well underway, is already improving the experience for passengers and airlines using our airports. Looking ahead, the investment we are delivering will be transformative and allow our airports to further unlock their significant future growth potential.”

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Follow US @biz_manchester

39

Wonderful.Org names The Co-operative Bank as its headline sponsor WONDERFUL.Org, the Manchester based fundraising platform that gives 100 per cent of charity donations to good causes, has announced The Co-operative Bank as its headline sponsor and added its 1500th Charity Partner to the platform.

Sponsor support for the charity giving platform is an essential element of the model that allows the Wonderful Organisation to ensure 100 per cent of money raised, and all Gift Aid, goes directly to the charity it’s intended for.

“We have incredibly low running costs, but we still have to pay card processing fees.

Our sponsors mean that we take nothing from donations to cover these, making us the only platform to give 100% to charities”, Kieron James, founder of Wonderful.org, explained.

The Wonderful Organisation has also just passed the milestone of 1500 registered charities and fundraisers who have registered on the platform so that fundraisers can share events with family, friends and colleagues.

Each month, the website transfers all funds raised through the activities of fundraisers to charities’ bank accounts, making no deductions whatsoever.

PROUD TO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE:

Sean Gilchrist, Chief Digital Officer at The Co-operative Bank, said: “It’s great to be supporting the Wonderful Organisation, a digital start-up based in Manchester, who are committed to give 100 per cent of all

expertise with a digital local business in Manchester and we can also explore volunteering opportunities that would benefit the platform and the many charities and fundraisers who use it.

“We are the UK’s only high street bank with a customer-led Ethical Policy and we continually work to uphold the values that we share with our customers. Supporting the work of the Wonderful Organisation is a great way to put our values and ethics into action and we look forward to the opportunities that working with Wonderful will bring.”

Kieron James commented: “We’re delighted to welcome The Co-operative Bank as our main sponsor. The sponsorship will help us in our aim of raising millions more pounds for charities throughout the UK. The ethical values we share make The Co-operative Bank a very strong fit for our fee-free fundraising platform.

“We believe the charities that fundraisers are supporting should receive every penny fundraising and donations to the causes that from their efforts. We also believe that Gift Aid should be directed in full to the charities are listed on its platform.

“Our sponsorship also brings the potential rather than the operators of fundraising opportunity for us to share our skills and platforms. Which is exactly what we do."

AS PART OF OUR COMMITMENT TO BEING A GOOD CORPORATE CITIZEN

40

CSR

June 2019

UKFast founders make £5m commitment to young people

THE husband and wife team behind UKFast has announced they have donated £5m into a newly created charitable trust to give a helping hand to disadvantaged young people.

Lawrence Jones MBE, who set up cloud hosting firm with wife Gail in 1999, is placing the funds directly into the UKFast Community and Education Trust, which seeks to improve the education, training and development opportunities available to young people, particularly within Greater Manchester.

The trust is committed to providing sustainable and lasting support for young people experiencing poverty, abuse, discrimination, exclusion and neglect, building on UKFast’s existing work in the community and in schools. The Trust also supports individuals and organisations looking after young people with lifelimiting and life-threatening conditions.

For more than a decade, UKFast has run a variety of initiatives as part of its mission to improve digital skills. These initiatives have developed into partnerships with more than 60 schools and colleges and today UKFast reaches 60,000 young people across Greater Manchester and its education team runs more than 500 events each year.

Alongside this work in digital skills, UKFast’s team supports a multitude of projects, including funding a much-needed breakfast club at Holy Name RC Primary School and providing 22,310 meals for children across Greater Manchester during the school holidays as part of a Holiday Hunger initiative in 2018.

UKFast CEO Lawrence Jones MBE said: “We made the choice to move into this area of Manchester and are proud to be based here. When we did, we made a conscious decision to work with the local community. After all, it’s their home and it’s our responsibility to be a good neighbour.

“When we heard that Holy Name School, just a stone’s throw from our campus, had children who couldn’t afford to pay 20p to attend a breakfast

club, we made a decision to get involved. Kids can’t sit through lessons and concentrate on activities if they don’t have basic nutrition.

“At the last count, we’ve invested nearly £10m in various education programmes in the last decade across Greater Manchester. It’s our intention to raise more funds, raise more awareness and inspire others to contribute. Our goal is to make this fund sustainable to maximise the impact it has over many years.

“We have problems in all of our towns and cities, where kids feel less empowered and further away from the bright lights they see on social media.

We believe that one way to bridge this gap is by bringing digital education to the forefront and connecting young people to the opportunities in our industry, tackling the digital skills shortage at the same time.

“This is how we’ll develop deeper relationships and partnerships to make a lasting difference, rather than it just offering short-term financial support.

The trust helps us professionalise our efforts and kick-starts a new era with the addition of £5m.”

UKFast is also committing 5,000 volunteering hours annually to community projects through the trust, worth a further £67,000 a year, as well as value-inkind donations of the firm’s facilities including its auditorium, which has hosted 1,500 young people to date in a series of free cinema screenings during school holidays.

UKFast Director of CSR, Russell Feingold, said: “UKFast is passionate about making a difference to the lives of young people in communities across Greater Manchester. There is a huge amount of work to do and the formation of the Trust allows us to make a much bigger impact and enable charities and projects to increase their reach and impact. We also aim to inspire and engage other business to do all they can to help disadvantaged young people in the region.”

CSR

41

Manchester Lloyds Banking Group colleagues volunteer to help at Manor Green Primary Academy

MANOR Green Primary Academy, Denton, one of the fifteen schools within Focus-Trust, has been revitalised with the support of Lloyds Banking Group and its ‘Helping Britain Prosper Plan’ which saw a team of ten colleagues from the Manchester Commercial Centre attend the school and complete an internal and external transformation.

The SME colleagues from Manchester Commercial Centre spent the day gardening and painting internal stairwells and corridors as part of Lloyds Banking Group’s commitment to volunteering, whereby colleagues are invited to use at least one working day, or eight hours, a year

helping support their local community.

Julia Simpson, Relationship Manager at Lloyds Banking Group said: “As part of the Group’s ambition to help Britain prosper, we were thrilled to use our volunteering day to support Manor Green Primary Academy and help our community thrive.

“We had fabulous weather which allowed us to paint and overhaul planters on the school verge, revamp the School shed and revitalize the raised beds which can now be used by the school’s Gardening Club. We were also able to rejuvenate the corridors and stairwells with the simplicity of magnolia paint making a much brighter and lighter

space for the pupils.’’

Debra Warren, Principal of Manor Green Primary Academy, added: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the ten volunteers who worked wonders on our academy!

“We are delighted with the changes that have been made which have given our academy building a new lease of life.

“Ahead of the Summer term, it’s great to have had our outdoor areas revived and the children are already showing a keen interest in learning more about the outdoors. Our Gardening Club have plans to make full use of the space!”

42

CSR

June 2019

Altrincham lawyers put up £5,000 prize fund for best young artists ALTRINCHAM litigator, FS Legal, has begun the search for the North West’s best young artists with the launch of a prestigious art competition.

The FS Legal Art Prize 2019 invites artists aged 16 – 25 years old, to create a unique piece of work that interprets the theme of ‘five’, in celebration of the firm’s fifth anniversary.

The competition aims to celebrate and highlight the artistic talent and creativity of young people across the region with the winning artist set to win a £3000 cash prize and four

runners up awarded £500 each.

The closing date for entries is Monday 17th June and the artwork can be created using any medium, including pastels, watercolour, oil or acrylic paint, and executed to any size.

The competition will be judged by Bill Clark, owner of Clark Art in Hale, a specialist in L.S. Lowry and modern British art, along with two Partners from FS Legal, Julia Norris and Kit Sorrell.

Kit Sorrell, Partner at FS Legal commented: “We’ve launched the FS Legal Art Prize to raise awareness and celebrate the high level of talented young artists from across the North West.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the entrant’s interpretations of this year’s theme of ‘five’ and how this is conveyed through the piece of work.

“As a passionate art enthusiast, I am honoured to be able to help support and give something back to the region’s young talent.”

An exclusive exhibition evening will be held on Thursday 11 July at Clark Art where the winners and runners up will be revealed at a prize giving.

Manchester agency boss joins InnovateHer board

A NATIONAL enterprise that aims to improve the gender balance in the technology sector has appointed Code Computerlove’s Tony Foggett as a non-executive director.

Tony, who is CEO of the long-established Manchester digital agency, has been involved with InnovateHer, which aims to give girls aged 12-16 the self belief and skills they need to pursue a career in technology, since last summer. He will now be providing additional support to the organisation to help it realise its vision ‘to get girls ready for the tech industry and the tech industry ready for girls’.

The organisation encourages greater equality and diversity in technical roles by enabling pupils to interact with leading employers and industry role models and learn new digital skills.

Acting as a mentor and member of its advisory board, Tony has been helping the Manchester and Liverpool based team develop its educational and coaching programmes including an eight-week after school programme that is being implemented in schools across every borough in the Greater Manchester combined authority area.

Code Computerlove is also a partner business within the InnovateHer partner network, which ranges from local businesses to global organisations, charities, universities and alternative education providers. The team at InnovateHer works closely with its partner network to ensure that they are inclusive places to work, sharing best practice and providing advice and support

on aspects like recruitment and culture.

Speaking of Tony’s appointment, Jo Morfee, co-founder of InnovateHer, said: “Tony brings more than 20 years’ experience of working in the digital sector and some brilliant insights from his experience of growing a business successfully. His input has already been invaluable, he has helped us to develop a scalable model so that we can deliver in multiple schools simultaneously. The team at Code have also helped us to design a new web development themed programme, which has now been run in two local schools.

“By seeing first hand the inner workings of a digital agency students get an idea of the different roles within a digital product consultancy. They also had an introduction to coding and were shown how to run an ideation session.”

Jo added: “It’s vital we encourage girls to consider careers within the technology sector at a young age and digital leadership experts such as Tony can make a huge impact on these decisions. We need everyone to advocate for this change, male, female, non-binary or however you identify. Tony is a true pioneer within the sector and is a real advocate of InnovateHer and our vision.”

Tony Foggett said: “I originally started working with InnovateHer as a company member business. Our industry has for a while been in a talent crisis, and for as long as we fail to get girls more enthused about a career in the technology this will not change.

“I was blown away by InnovateHer’s school programmes and their ability to connect the students to the opportunities within the industry at such a critical stage when technology is rarely a career path considered by girls deciding on their future."

43

APPOINTMENTS

New appointment for Atradius’ Northern Hub TRADE credit insurer Atradius has appointed a new business development manager for its Northern Hub. Chris Williamson joins the Atradius North team as the new SME business development manager, responsible for policy underwriting and developing relationships with the local broker network.

Chris, a Bath University biochemistry graduate, was introduced to Atradius in early 2018 from the prestigious Welsh Financial Services Graduate Programme; a collaborative programme of work, training and academic study designed and delivered by leading

financial organisations. After a six-month placement with Atradius’ strategic account team, Chris was offered a long-term position and has now been appointed into the new business development manager role in Manchester.

A global leader in trade credit insurance, Atradius has a regional presence across the UK with its longestablished Northern Hub serving brokers and businesses across the North of England and Scotland. Atradius’ Manchester based Northern Hub has grown from strength to strength in recent years following the appointment of four members of staff last summer and the strategic office move to The Chancery,

Spring Gardens, in the heart of Manchester’s’ financial district in 2013.

Chris said: “Insurers and brokers have the same goal in aspiring to provide bestin-class service for customers who want to trade safely and successfully. Therefore, a strong broker-insurer relationship is essential in order for us, in partnership, to combine our intelligence, expertise and services to achieve greater successes for our customers. I have been given a warm welcome to the region by our broker community and am looking forward to building these relationships further in my new role.”

Stuart Ramsden, Head

of Commercial for Atradius UK & Ireland, added: “The Financial Services Graduate Programme is an excellent scheme that enables businesses to identify and nurture future talent.

“Through his placement at Atradius, it was clear Chris would be a great asset to the team, he has a good understanding of the industry and of Atradius’ offering and is motivated to deliver the right solutions for our customers. It is good to see him further developing his career at Atradius in the North.

“As a trade credit insurer, Atradius protects businesses from the risks of trading domestically and overseas

and has been doing so for a century. Non-payment is the single biggest risk to a business and, unfortunately, one that shows no sign of diminishing. Atradius can support a business to navigate the fog of uncertainty from the beginning of their trade journey. With a team of global experts, Atradius works with local businesses to analyse trade sectors, markets and countries as well as individual customers, evaluating risk and helping our customers to identify new opportunities.

With increasing uncertainty in the business environment and wider economy, it is clear that trade credit insurance continues to be an essential tool for business.”

Infinity appoints corporate lawyer Anna Kerrane as director INVESTMENT group Infinity has bolstered its senior team with the appointment of Anna Kerrane as a director.

Anna has joined Salford Quaysbased Infinity from the Manchester office of law firm Shoosmiths where she was a senior associate.

She is an experienced corporate lawyer who has advised on a range of transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, joint ventures and

company restructurings.

Over the years she has advised Infinity on a number of deals.

Anna’s arrival at Infinity follows the appointment last year of another director, Paul Wogan, who joined in a business development role.

Infinity, which is led by partners Daniel Finestein, Sarah Butler and Phil Vickers, provides fund management and corporate advisory services across the UK and internationally.

It specialises in the formation,

management and operation of investment funds throughout their lifecycle through to exit.

Infinity creates and manages funds for clients utilising its FCA regulatory umbrella service, which offers prospective fund managers a faster route to market.

It also manages its own funds, including ones focused on private equity and property.

Managing partner Daniel said: “We’ve worked with Anna on a

number of deals in the past and her experience and approach fits in very well with our team and our vision.

“Her legal background brings a fresh perspective to the services we offer, working alongside our external advisers.”

Anna said: “I know the Infinity team well, having advised on a range of transactions over several years, so I jumped at the chance to join the firm when the opportunity arose.”

44

APPOINTMENTS

June 2019

Paul Cooper announced as new MediaCom North COO Manchesterbased data science and AI recruitment company welcomes new hires THE Big Cloud team has now reached 20, with five new starters joining them this year. The firm welcomes Head of Executive Search, Andrew McLoughlin, who will be bringing over 10 years’ experience to work on executive search across the USA. He is joined by Recruiter, Liam Hopkins, who will work with candidates in Data Science, Machine Learning and Deep Learning across the US. Also joining the US team is Technical Recruiter Leilah Ruan, with a focus on the computer vision and deep learning market.

Carsten Jahn joins the European team, who will be centering on the machine learning contract market in Germany, following a successful history recruiting freelance software engineers in the region. He is joined by Recruiter, Elicia Hermitt, responsible, for sourcing machine learning talent in Germany and the Netherlands.

“These are exciting times for Big Cloud,” said Founder & CEO, Matt Reaney. “We can’t wait to welcome more great people on board who are interested in working with global AI companies using tech for good.”

MEDIA agency MediaCom North Group has named Paul Cooper as its new chief operating officer, as part of a raft of senior promotions across the group.

After joining MediaCom North as regional head of digital in 2011, Paul launched i-LAB, MediaCom’s digital performance specialist division, and oversaw the merger of the business’ digital, direct and TV operations into a fully integrated communications agency – more than doubling it in size.

He played a leading role in the acquisition and integration of digital agency Code ComputerLove in 2016 and creative agency Cheetham Bell JWT in 2018.

Going forward, Paul will be responsible for leading the group – which consists of media, digital and creative businesses MediaCom North, Code and Cheetham Bell. Key to this will be evolving the group into a business that works with clients seamlessly across all areas of their marketing ecosystem, helping to deliver business transformation and growth.

Evidence of the growing importance of MediaCom’s regional operations to the UK business, Paul also joins the executive committee for MediaCom UK, which has recently been ranked number one media agency in the UK by Campaign.

Further promotions include Nicola Marsh, who becomes managing director of MediaCom Manchester.

She now takes full responsibility for the Manchester office’s operation while retaining overall accountability for the group’s digital media

proposition, centralised in the Manchester office.

Having previously led i-LAB, Nicola has been deputy managing director of the Manchester office for the last 18 months.

Matt Hatton becomes group managing director, commercial & trading, having been responsible for all commercials, contractual and trading across MediaCom North’s media businesses for the last two years. Matt brings a wealth of experience to the role, ranging from TV investment to agency management, and will also join the boards of Code and Cheetham Bell, giving him a commercial view of the group as a single entity.

Ffion Turner has become the managing partner for MediaCom North’s Business Intelligence division. Previously Business Intelligence Board Director, Ffion has been at the business since 2004. She will also join the MediaCom North board.

In response to the changes, Paul commented: “I’m excited to take on the role of COO at a time when MediaCom North continues to see significant growth. In the past three years, we’ve grown from an agency of just over 250 staff, to over 400 today. As a result, 2018 was the most successful revenue year in MediaCom North’s history.

“Investing in our senior team will help us shape the business for continued growth in a rapidly changing environment. We will also continue to focus on making MediaCom North a great place to work, in line with our philosophy ‘people first, better results’. Through this, we can continue to achieve fantastic outcomes for our clients.”

APPOINTMENTS

45

CMS bolsters Corporate capability in Northern offices with new partner hire in Manchester INTERNATIONAL law firm CMS is pleased to announce the appointment of partner Matthew Davies, who will be joining the firm’s Corporate practice in Manchester.

Matthew joins the firm from Addleshaw Goddard.

Matthew has extensive experience advising on UK and multi-jurisdictional mergers and acquisitions, corporate reorganisations and restructurings and corporate law and governance issues.

He also has experience in investment transactions, including joint ventures, partnerships and shareholders’ agreements. He has a particular focus on the Financial Services sector, with significant experience advising across a number of transactions in the banking, payments and FX, fiduciary

/ corporate / fund services and asset management sectors.

CMS’ Head of Corporate in Manchester Howard Gill commented: “We are delighted to welcome Matthew to the firm. His knowledge and strong track record will be a real asset to the team, adding considerably to our capabilities.

Matthew’s arrival underscores our commitment to the Corporate practice and will enable us to better serve our clients at a time when we are seeing increasing levels of investment and M&A activity across the north of England.”

Matthew Davies added: “I am pleased to be joining CMS, and look forward to working with the team to support its growth ambitions across the region.”

WorkMobile boosts tech provision with new appointment MANCHESTER-based WorkMobile, a cloud-based data capture specialist, has expanded its tech team with a new software tester.

Divya Akshita, who previously worked at Cybercom Software Systems in India, will be responsible for providing quality assurance on the testing team to ensure the WorkMobile application is fit for purpose and performs to the highest of standards.

Divya will play an important role in enhancing the data capture app to enable remote workers to capture all essential business data in the most efficient and cost-effective form.

Available on every type of mobile device, Workmobile’s app provides a more accurate, compliant and efficient alternative to paper forms captured in real time. It is stored securely in the cloud, so information can be accessed and shared from anywhere. When necessary, businesses can have a clear electronic audit trail to keep their customers

fully informed and ensure that they have proof of operating in the most compliant manner.

Commenting on her appointment, Divya Akshita said: “The team at Workmobile are data capture specialists and Manchester is becoming well-renowned as an important global tech hub, so this role within the business is a great fit for my expertise. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming. I look forward to testing and developing the company’s software to ensure it remains cutting edge and delivers the best service to our customers.”

Graham Stanley, chief technical officer of WorkMobile, said: “Over the past couple of months, we have invested heavily in our tech team to ensure we attract and retain the very best in talent. Divya is another fantastic addition to the Workmobile team and we’re confident that she will help boost our tech provision as we expand the business.”

46

APPOINTMENTS

June 2019

Freedom Finance appoints new Chief Customer Officer to drive digital transformation MANCHESTER Fintech platform Freedom Finance has appointed Jake Ranson as Chief Customer Officer to further drive its digital transformation. Jake joins from Equifax where he held the position of Chief Marketing Officer for Europe.

Jake will be responsible for furthering Freedom Finance’s customer strategy, helping potential borrowers to understand and unlock the power of their personal data to achieve the best possible outcomes for their individual circumstances. He brings significant expertise from the UK’s consumer finance market, particularly in creating digital products that make financial decisions engaging and straightforward.

Freedom Finance provides customers with clarity, rather than endless personal finance options.

Coupling relevant data with innovative technology, its unique lending platform provides customers with the most suitable range of options and rates by combining multiple data sources with bureau soft-

searches and services like Open Banking.

Jake, who brings extensive knowledge in commercial strategy, digital innovation, and end-toend product lifecycle management, will also lead the development and capabilities of Freedom Finance’s app, which removes complexity from applications to help every customer make the best decision from the products available to them. Jake’s appointment follows Freedom Finance’s rapid growth in customer numbers year-on-year.

Brian Brodie, Chief Executive Officer at Freedom Finance said: “Jake’s appointment comes at a time where Freedom Finance is investing in technology and people to help carve-out exactly what borrowers want in the digital market. Freedom Finance recognises how, coupled with secure and sophisticated technology, financial information has the potential to improve borrowers’ financial lives.

“With years of experience in one of the largest data businesses in the world, I am delighted to have Jake join us at Freedom Finance. I have no

doubt that his experience will further strengthen our leadership team and how the business meets customers’ requirements in a highly digitised world.”

Jake said: “Personal finance can be complicated and unnecessarily daunting for some. Many consumers still feel alienated and confused by the industry and end up with the wrong products as a result. Freedom’s ability to mesh digital technologies, analytics and human support provides unrivalled levels of advocacy on the journey to making a financial decision. Freedom Finance’s ethos of combining digital and human interactions has earned tremendous reviews from its customers and is something I feel is well worth championing in today’s market.

“Freedom Finance has unrivalled capabilities and huge growth potential, which drew me to the business. I look forward to working within a talented team dedicated to delivering experiences and outcomes which inspire customers to return”.

Hugh Jones Solicitors makes senior appointment MANCHESTER-based specialist law firm, Hugh Jones Solicitors, has appointed a consultant solicitor to provide additional expert services to the firm’s Court of Protection team.

The multi-award winning firm boasts the largest team of Court of Protection lawyers in the UK and the latest hire paves the way for an ongoing recruitment drive throughout 2019.

Georgina Rowley brings with her a wealth of experience in Court of Protection welfare cases, including end of life treatment cases, withholding

and withdrawing life sustaining treatment, disputes on decisions to grant and withhold continuing healthcare funding and inquests.

Rachel Dobson, managing director of Hugh Jones said: “As one of the largest private client firms in England and Wales, we are always looking to bolster our workforce with the sector’s most knowledgeable experts.

“Georgina will play a vital role in ensuring that the Court of Protection services we offer continue to lead the industry, extending our expertise into treatment and welfare disputes. She’s

a valuable addition to our biggest team and perfectly placed to provide clients with the support required to help them navigate what can often be a testing time or ongoing process.”

Georgina is an accredited mediator and passionate about promoting the benefits of mediation in Court of Protection and treatment cases.

Her experience as a solicitor in this area enables her to understand the complexities and sensitives involved in these cases. She lectures widely on the benefits of mediation in these cases and has trained the health and social

care sector on conflict management and communication in partnership with the Medical Mediation Foundation.

Georgina commented: “Hugh Jones has built an impressive reputation for its Court of Protection and mental capacity work. I look forward to working alongside a team of individuals who share my passion for providing quality advice in these areas and have no doubt that the team will continue to go from strength to strength.”

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PROPERTY

Hurstwood Holdings refurbs Rossendale business landmark HURSTWOOD Holdings, has refurbished a landmark Business Centre in Rossendale.

Link 665, situated off the A56, has undergone a major refurbishment, modernising the Business Centre to better reflect the forward-thinking businesses that are based there.

The 35,000 sq ft Business Centre, which was the

former HQ of Hurstwood Holdings, offers fantastic facilities, including excellent links to the M66 and M56, a manned reception, 24 hours CCTV monitoring and parking for 160 cars.

Sian Hindle, Sales Manager, Hurstwood Holdings, said: “Refurbing our former headquarters has taken two months, with new flooring, furniture

and a redecoration now being completed. We are delighted with the final result, since Link 665 offers its 15 occupants a modern and welcoming environment, to grow and develop their businesses.

“As a result, we now have spaces from 780 to 1,266 sq ft available for businesses who require a modern, flexible and convenient office space.”

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48

PROPERTY

June 2019

Bruntwood Works celebrates opening BRUNTWOOD Works, has marked the opening of a brand new community space at its Atria development in Bolton with a special celebratory event.

Bruntwood Works has enhanced the facilities on offer for businesses at Atria with the development of the new community space, which will provide a place for people working within the building to connect and collaborate.

The event included an update from David Lloyd Bolton which provided Atria customers with

exclusive offers, a theatre performance from Bolton Octagon Theatre’s Creative Engagement Team and a talk from the Bolton Lads and Girls Club.

The central community hub features a bright, creative, and welcoming design and includes a range of useful spaces including hot desk options for individuals and groups, private working locations, informal meeting spaces, and an event area, which will also host a dynamic events programme.

Andrew Cooke, regional director at Bruntwood Works, said: “It’s brilliant to be celebrating the

launch of our new space at Atria, which will offer our customers a fantastic place to mingle and meet for a coffee, grab a chat or even collaborate on a project in one of the breakout spaces.

“Flexible community spaces like this are key to creating positive working environments where people feel welcome, comfortable, and inspired by their surroundings and we hope the new space will help the formation of new community networks and boost collaborations between businesses based at the site.”

PROPERTY

49

NOMA submits plans for 4 Angel Square DEVELOPMENT manager MEPC has submitted plans for 4 Angel Square, its latest office project at NOMA, to Manchester City Council, as progress continues at the 20-acre neighbourhood.

The new 11-storey office building will sit on the corner of Corporation Street and Miller Street and is NOMA’s first speculative new build office development, with MEPC looking to capitalise on soaring demand for workspace in Manchester thanks to the city’s continued growth.

Designed by Manchester-based architects SimpsonHaugh, the Grade-A office building will bring over 2,000 new workers to NOMA, joining the community of businesses, residents and creatives who have already made the area their home.

In addition to providing 200,000 sq. ft. of premium office space,

shops or restaurants will be provided on the ground floor and new public realm as part of a much-improved link to One Angel Square, which will be crucial to unlocking the other new-build development opportunities.

Paul Pavia, head of development at MEPC, said: “Major corporates from not just the UK but across the globe are looking to base some of their operations in Manchester, thanks to the city’s strong civic leadership, thriving culture and leisure scene and increasing transport and digital connectivity.

“4 Angel Square will bring some much needed supply to the Manchester office market, with demand for high quality workspace outstripping supply and we’re excited to be submitting our proposals to the city council.”

50

PROPERTY

June 2019

urbanbubble research reveals Manchester has more tall towers in pipeline than Paris and Berlin combined MANCHESTER has a stronger pipeline of residential towers than Paris and Berlin combined, with the wider city centre population forecast to grow by one third to 154,000 by 2022, according to new research from Manchesterbased residential property management specialist urbanbubble.

The company’s data arm UrbInfo Manchester reveals that, once occupied, thousands of new apartments being delivered in Manchester’s central core in the next four years will increase the city centre’s ‘current’ population by 50,000 from a total of 104,357 in 2017 to 154,357 in 2022.

The central core area

takes in Manchester city centre and neighbouring wards in Salford and Trafford where the city living trend is booming.

The future population figure is calculated from an average occupancy of 1.4 persons per home, based on urbanbubble’s current portfolio of 4,500 apartments under management in Manchester.

The research shows a pipeline of 35,990 new apartments being delivered in the central core by 2022 via 53 residential schemes, including 21 now under construction and 32 with planning approval.

Of the 53 schemes, 21 are tall towers of more than 20-storeys in heigh, four more than the 17

in Paris and 19 in Berlin either approved or under construction.

Michael Howard, founder and managing director of urbanbubble, said the arrival of tens of thousands of new, highquality apartments to rent between 2019 and 2022 cements Manchester’s status as a major European hub city and will make city centre living affordable to more people by creating an over-supply, thereby exerting downward pressure on rental values of existing stock.

He said: “The new wave of residential schemes provides outside space, gyms, lounges, swimming pools and home working spaces as a matter of course.

This higher quality offer

will push down rents for older stock, creating a more diverse rental market, with a more affordable level for more people.

“We welcome that, because people previously priced out of the city centre will be able to move in." urbanbubble handles holistic care of property, facilities, management, lettings and residents’ management for a growing number of blue-chip developers.

Its exclusive Build to Rent (BtR) partnership with institutional investor Legal & General (L&G) led to L&G’s first BtR development at The Slate Yard, Salford urbanbubble also manages residential schemes

across Manchester and Liverpool for developers including Salboy, Elliot Group, PAG, Mulbury and Capital & Centric.

Mr Howard is certain that the BtR model will continue to thrive as developers and investors introduce a step change to traditional levels of care, services and facilities for occupiers.

He said: “It’s in the developer’s interest to create a community so residents move in and want to stay long-term. We are seeing a revolution in the new generation of schemes, not only in amenities but also in rental terms, with no fees, open-ended leases and a much fairer approach to deposits.”

PROPERTY

51

Vorwerk signs up at Altrincham Business Park CEG, represented by international real estate advisor Savills, has let office space at Altrincham Business Park to international firm Vorwerk.

The German business, which specialises in the direct distribution of various products including household appliances and cosmetics, has agreed a new five year lease for the 2,579 sq ft space at the park’s Edward Court.

CEG has managed a ÂŁ1million refurbishment of the park, improving landscaping, refurbishing the onsite management office, upgrading office specification and will soon deliver a new cafĂŠ and gym. The letting to Vorwerk follows a number of recently completed deals including Richard Allitt Associates Ltd, Mint Bridging and Markris Media.

Altrincham Business Park is the town’s most established business park, offering 85,000 sq ft of developed self-contained office space. Surrounded by an array of retail and leisure amenities, the park benefits from being only two miles from the town centre with convenient access to the nearest junctions of the M56 and M60.

Andrew Cooke, associate in the office agency team at Savills,

comments: “We’re really pleased to add to Altrincham Business Park’s recent string of lettings with this latest deal with Vorwerk. The major refurbishment has attracted a diverse range of occupiers and has underlined Altrincham as the leading business park in the area.�

Robert Morton, investment manager at CEG, said: “The refurbishment work has focused on providing a better environment for our customers. The new facilities, attractive environment and great space helps to attract and retain good staff, which is exactly what growing businesses need to thrive. As a result we’ve seen a run of great lettings and look forward to welcoming Vorwerk to Altrincham Business Park.�

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14/06/2018 13:05

PROPERTY

Town Centre Securities launches first PRS scheme in Manchester’s Piccadilly Basin

PROPERTY investor and car park operator, Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), has launched its first Private Rental Sector (PRS) scheme with the completion of 91 luxury waterfront apartments within its 13 acre awardwinning Piccadilly Basin development in Manchester City Centre.

The canal-side Burlington House scheme, which is being delivered in partnership with Highgrove Group, is the first PRS development undertaken

by TCS and has been designed by internationally-acclaimed Architects SimpsonHaugh. Burlington House comprises 91 apartments of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms set over 11 floors.

Piccadilly Basin is one of TCS’s most significant development opportunities with a mix of residential, commercial and car parking with a total estimated GDV of over £300m.

The delivery of Burlington House

53

forms part of the wider regeneration aspirations for the strategic site, which include the redevelopment of existing and recently acquired office buildings and the next residential development, Eider House, which will be the second PRS scheme for TCS. Edward Ziff, Chairman and Chief Executive of TCS, commented: “To be delivering our first ever PRS scheme represents an exciting time for TCS. Piccadilly Basin is a unique regeneration scheme with far-reaching development opportunities and is the natural home for a luxury apartment development of this nature. We will diversify our portfolio in response to market demand where we recognise opportunities, and are anticipating strong interest in this new venture.”

54

PROPERTY

June 2019

Lifestyle Outlets’ Manchester scheme thrives as Vue commits to leisure investment LIFESTYLE Outlets, part of Peel L&P, has recorded significant sales growth at Lowry Outlet, as an experience-led approach has achieved an 8.5% Year-on-Year increase in sales.

The Lowry Outlet is located a few minutes’ walk from MediaCityUK and has recently secured a long-term commitment from Vue Cinemas.

Recently, Vue opened a new big screen experience at Lowry Outlet, as the regeneration of the scheme into one of the city’s leading leisure destinations gathers pace. Vue signed a new 20-year lease before embarking on a multimillion-pound refit which transformed the venue into a luxury sevenscreen complex.

It is anticipated that the upgraded cinema will bolster the outlet’s footfall figures by at least half a million visitors per year as more people are going to the cinema than at any time in the last fifty years. Last year, cinema attendance in the U.K. topped 177 million, the highest number since 1970.

The cinema upgrade is part of a wider leisure rejuvenation programme currently underway at Lowry Outlet. Lifestyle Outlets is creating an additional 35,000 sq ft of new leisure space, which will supplement the new cinema.

Additionally, Lifestyle Outlets has been granted planning consent to transform the waterfront into a landmark destination – ‘The Watergardens’. The £26m

investment will deliver a quality new food and beverage space in the centre of historic Salford Quays.

The Watergardens’ first restaurant is set to open in 2020 and will be connected to the iconic Millennium Bridge by a new waterfront promenade.

It is within a short distance of some of Manchester’s most popular attractions, including Old Trafford, The Lowry Theatre and The Imperial War Museum North.

Jason Pullen, managing director, Lifestyle Outlets, said: “The 8.5% increase in YOY sales highlights our experience-led outlet model is outperforming the wider retail market and that consumers are placing a greater importance on a really strong leisure offering in combination with outlet shopping.

“It is great news that Vue has committed to a new 20-year lease and completed a multimillion-pound upgrade, as it complements our ongoing work to make Lowry Outlet one the city’s go-to leisure spots. Our investment will deliver a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment underpinned by an exciting retail offering, bringing the waterfront to life and creating a real destination of choice for Manchester. As shopping habits continue to change and leisure and entertainment facilities grow in importance, the popularity of Lifestyle Outlets will continue to thrive.”

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