Brouns helps to breathe new life into historic quarter of Wakefield

Stuart Pearcey
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Brouns helps to breathe new life into historic quarter of Wakefield
Leeds-based Brouns & Co, the UK’s only manufacturer of linseed paint and one of just a handful of producers worldwide, is playing a key role in a £4m project breathing new life into a historic quarter of Wakefield. The city’s Upper Westgate Heritage Action Zone has provided grants to businesses since 2020 to enable them to renovate and invest in more than 20 historically significant buildings, many of which were vacant and had fallen into disrepair. The four-year partnership initiative between Historic England and Wakefield Council is using Brouns & Co’s linseed paint as part of the renovation process. Britt Harwood of Mirfield-based Inc. Architecture, a specialist conservation architect who works predominantly on historic buildings and was the overseeing architect on the Wakefield scheme, said: “Using linseed paint was crucial to this important regeneration project. Not only is it virtually identical to the original paint that would have been used on these buildings when they were first built, and even made using the same, traditional process, it also has far superior longevity and durability to plastic-based paint.”
She added: “Brouns & Co colour-matched the historic paint shades for us and on some buildings we also used their own historic colours. The fact that they make the paint right here in Yorkshire is a bonus and has helped reduce the environmental impact of the project.” Brouns & Co linseed paint was used to restore the exteriors of Westgate’s Nocturno, Flares and After Dark nightclubs, as well as the Elephant and Castle pub, among a number of the historic street’s other listed buildings. Brouns CEO Michiel Brouns said: “We’re really proud that our paint was used on this important regeneration project which has had such a positive effect on this historic area of Wakefield and helped to bring these streets back to life.” The linseed paint manufacturing process, which Brouns & Co has returned to Yorkshire for the first time since the 19th century, involves oil from flax seed grown and pressed in Collingham, being triple-milled with ground natural pigments to create paint in a range of authentic colours. Brouns & Co’s paint is used by many historic properties including Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, the restoration of Wentworth Woodhouse near Rotherham, and English Heritage-owned Brodsworth Hall near Doncaster, as well as by architects and developers.

Work underway on new 375,000 sq ft industrial estate in Doncaster

Tess Egginton
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Work underway on new 375,000 sq ft industrial estate in Doncaster

Work is underway on a major new industrial and logistics development in Doncaster that will offer five units covering a total of 376,419 sq ft, just a mile and a half from the M18.

Known as Total Park, and developed by Total Developments, the self-contained units will range from 43,525 sq ft to 128,945 sq ft and are being marketed jointly by Leeds property consultancy, GV&Co and M1 Agency.

Each unit will have a minimum BREEAM rating of ‘very good’ and an EPC rating of A, as well as benefitting from high quality, fully fitted upstairs office space, yard depths of at least 45 metres and extensive parking areas complete with EV charging points.

Daniel Walker, from GV&Co, said: “Total Park is in a central location for many businesses, close to the M18 and A1(M) which link to Leeds, Sheffield and Manchester in the North and Nottingham, Birmingham and London in the South. In addition, the site is less than four miles from iPort Rail, which provides immediate access to the national rail network and all the country’s deep sea ports.

“There are very few new units, of this standard and specification, currently under construction in South Yorkshire and with so many household names located close by, including Amazon, Tesco, Screwfix and IKEA, we’re anticipating high levels of interest in Total Park from regional, national and international occupiers.”

Henry Watson from M1 Agency said: “We are seeing specification and location be paramount to occupier requirements in the current market and Total Park benefits from best-in-class building specification and unrivalled location. We have seen a large take up of units below 150,000 sq ft across the South Yorkshire region leaving a very limited supply.”

Ed Chantler, chief executive of Total Developments, said: “Total Park Doncaster represents a continuation of our clear strategy since inception. Our track record of identifying sites and speculatively developing best-in-class mid-box warehousing and manufacturing space has established our position as market leaders in the 20,000 to 150,000 sq ft size range.

“Our focus on targeting undersupplied towns and cities where there has been a lack of high specification accommodation being brought forward has ensured our success in achieving pre-commitments and hence gives us the confidence to push on at Doncaster and ensure the development is expedited to meet demand.”

The first three units in the first phase of Total Park, which is located at Balby Carr Bank off the A6182, will offer 65,389 sq ft, 54,503 sq ft and 43,525 sq ft of space, with two further units, spanning 128,945 sq ft and 84,056 sq ft, due to complete next year.

Pure Block Management adds prestigious York developments to portfolio

Tess Egginton
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Pure Block Management adds prestigious York developments to portfolio
Yorkshire property firm Pure Block Management continues to expand its activities in York, having taken on the management of a further three residential developments in the city in recent weeks. The firm is part of Hull-headquartered Garness Group, which welcomed York-based commercial property specialist Barry Crux & Company under its umbrella in November 2023. The latest additions to Pure Block Management’s portfolio include the award-winning former St. Joseph’s Convent development on Lawrence Street, close to the city walls. The development of nine apartments and five houses is an important part of York’s ecclesiastical history, with the Grade II listed buildings on the site dating back to the 1870s, when they became home to a branch of nuns called the Poor Clare Colettines. The other York properties now part of Pure Block Management’s client base are the Piccadilly Loft apartments – a block of 10 apartments within the city walls – and a development of six modern apartments in Hebdon Court in Acomb. Pure Block Management has taken over management of all aspects of the three developments, from arranging day-to-day repairs and planned maintenance of communal areas, car parks and grounds to taking care of financial and legal matters including service charge collection. Pure Block Management director Liam Parker said: “We’re delighted to be taking on responsibility for developments of such high quality in York and working with local award-winning property developers. “We feel our expertise in managing listed and historic properties will make us an ideal management firm for many of the city’s distinctive developments. “Our industry knowledge and our proactive, professional approach has made us one of the leaders in our sector in Yorkshire, where we manage over 120 residential blocks and complexes of all types and sizes. “Our unique and personal approach helps us stand out from the rest and provides great comfort to owners and occupiers of the properties we manage.”

Leeds-based commercial developer secures multi-million pound facility to fuel roadside development expansion

Tess Egginton
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Leeds-based commercial developer secures multi-million pound facility to fuel roadside development expansion
Eshton Group, a Leeds-based commercial developer, has secured a significant boost to its development strategy, having secured a multi-million pound facility from Handelsbanken. The infusion of capital from Handelsbanken enables Eshton Group to amplify its ongoing search for strategic locations across Great Britain, further bolstering its portfolio of roadside and local shopping development sites in England, Scotland and Wales. The developer’s forward-thinking approach is exemplified by its latest ventures in Northallerton and Castleford. In Northallerton, Eshton, in partnership with Aldi, is proposing a ‘modern day’ local centre on a gateway site to the North. Eshton’s development supports 900 new homes and a new school with a blend of food and beverage facilities linked to the food store. Richard Tovey, Director at Eshton Group, said: “We’re thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with Handelsbanken by our side. This investment fuels our mission to deliver best-in-class roadside retail developments that not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of communities nationwide. “Eshton boasts success in pinpointing strategic commercial property locations which, with the right development approach, fulfil urgent market needs. What’s different now is that we’re expanding our search. Across England, Scotland and Wales, we’re scouting commercial property development opportunities and locations that deliver job creation and community facilities.” George Allott, Corporate Banking Manager at Handelsbanken Leeds Wellington Street, said: “Eshton Group evidence a strong 20+ year history in delivering quality assets to the communities of the North of England. The flexible funding structure we have provided for the group provides significant capital to accelerate their growth plans, helping create jobs and improve communities across the whole of the United Kingdom. “Handelsbanken’s relationship banking model and ability to make local decisions aligned directly with Eshton Group’s requirements when looking for a banking partner to help expediate their growth plans. We are excited to start this journey as Eshton Group’s full banking partner and support their long-term growth strategy.”

Yorkshire Garden Centres wins shortlisting in HR awards

Stuart Pearcey
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Yorkshire Garden Centres wins shortlisting in HR awards
The team at a Bradford-headquartered garden centre group is celebrating after being shortlisted for two national people and culture awards. Yorkshire Garden Centres Group from Bradford has reached the finals of both the Best HR Team of the Year and the ESG Program of the Year categories of the UK Company Culture Awards. The awards recognise organisations that nurture their workforce, reward their staff, and create an environment that proves everyone is valued. Yorkshire Garden Centre’s Head of People and Culture, Neil Barwise-Carr said: “The UK Company Culture Awards celebrate fresh, adaptive businesses like Yorkshire Garden Centres that value their teams and strive to care for their career development, mental health, and physical well-being. We’ve got an amazing team who are delivering on numerous People, Climate and Community initiatives to make a difference to everyone working within our six garden centres, and to their respective communities.” In the ESG Program of the Year, Yorkshire Garden Centres faces competition from Intersoft and Ogury, while fellow finalists in the HR Team Award include Cooper Parry, Cuckoo People Team, Homes for Students, and TrunkBBI. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Sheraton Grand, Park Lane, London, on May 2nd. The UK Company Culture Awards are organised by Don’t Panic, a B2B events agency specialising in corporate award ceremonies. The Yorkshire Garden Centres group comprises Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley Garden Centres and the recently acquired Dean’s York and Dean’s Scarborough. Otley and Bingley Garden Centres were known as Stephen H Smith’s before they were acquired by YGC in 2022.

Two get Directorships amidst series of promotions at Shorts

Stuart Pearcey
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Two get Directorships amidst series of promotions at Shorts
Shorts has promoted Ryan Wilkes and Liam Buttery to Directorshiops within its Owner Managed Business team. The promotions were announced within a raft of promotions which saw nine other members of the team progressing into new roles within the firm. Partner Malcolm Pope said: “Over the last couple of years, Liam and Ryan have both taken on the role of Engagement Leader for our ever increasing portfolio of clients looked after by the Owner Managed Business team. They have played a pivotal role in the implementation of advancements to improve our clients’ experience’, and have both successfully completed our Management Development training program. “Jointly, they continue to represent Shorts within the Owner Managed Business working group, as part of our membership of the Praxity Alliance, and more locally through our involvement with the Chesterfield Champions. Their promotions now to Director are extremely well deserved and reflect their dedication and commitment to continued growth within Shorts.” Ryan said: “I am very excited to start the next step in my Shorts career as OMB Director. It was such a proud moment when found out I would be promoted, probably the proudest of my career so far. The road to get here has been challenging (as you would expect), however has allowed me to foster new skills and really expand my capabilities as an accountant, leader, and person! “The support I received, at all levels of the firm to help me achieve this promotion, is a true testament to the culture and values created at Shorts. I can’t wait to get started on growing the department, working with current & future clients, while offering support to the team to help them achieve their careers goals.“ Liam added: “Being promoted to director marks a significant milestone in my career, and is one that I am incredibly proud to achieve. The 15-year journey, from being a school leaving apprentice, becoming ACCA qualified in 2016, various management roles, and now director level, has been such a rewarding one. “Shorts’ genuine focus on personal growth, their investment in me, and the support of a brilliant team have all been instrumental in achieving this long-term goal. As director, I’m excited to continue working with both new and existing clients, whilst also investing in the development of individuals on their own career paths. I look forward to leading the owner-managed business team and continuing to build on its success.“

Reusabox wins place amongst final eight for national award

Stuart Pearcey
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Reusabox wins place amongst final eight for national award
Reuseabox, based in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, has been chosen as a finalist for the Net Hero award at this year’s Small Awards. Now in its eighth year, The Small Awards is a nationwide search for the smallest and greatest firms in the UK, across all sectors. It is organised annually by Small Business Britain, which champions, inspires and accelerates the nation’s 5.5 million small firms. Reuseabox is a B Corp certified packaging company dedicated to promoting the benefits of cardboard box reuse. With a commitment to reducing waste and carbon emissions, Reuseabox provides innovative solutions for businesses looking to minimise their environmental impact with their packaging. The company has been selected as one of just eight finalists for the Net Hero Award for best sustainability-focused business that recognises an organisation with an exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability. With eleven different categories, the Small Awards celebrate the dynamism and resilience exhibited in the UK’s small business sector, across everything from sustainability heroes to digital stars, to long-standing family businesses. Michelle Ovens, Founder of Small Business Britain, said: “The Small Awards is all about celebrating the inspiring small business owners who are at the heart of the economy and their communities. “They are an opportunity to recognise and applaud the passion and resilience of the nation’s small firms, particularly amidst such turbulent times. Reuseabox is extremely deserving of being shortlisted for this award and we can’t wait to celebrate with them in May.” Founder of Reuseabox Jack Good said: c“Being selected as a finalist for Britain’s best Net Hero business at the Small Awards is a testament to our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. It’s an honour to be recognised among the nation’s finest small firms, and we’re thrilled to continue leading the charge towards a greener future within the packaging industry.” Judged by a panel of industry experts, the winners of all categories, including the overall winner of the Small Business of the Year award, will be announced at a splendid awards ceremony in London on May 16th.

Business start-ups could find new home at Pockington’s Burnby Hall

Stuart Pearcey
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Business start-ups could find new home at Pockington’s Burnby Hall
Start-up businesses could be one of the new uses for Pocklington’s Burnby Hall, which is to be leased to Pocklington Town Council at a peppercorn rent for the next 125 years. The Hall will be declared surplus to the requirements of East Riding of Yorkshire Council after it becomes vacant at the end of September this year. The building is currently underused, and also needs significant expenditure on maintenance. It will be vacated by the end of September, and the council’s registrars will transfer to the Pocela Centre in the town. Pocklington Town Council has previously asked for the building to be transferred to them as a Community Asset Transfer. They now plan to create a Community Hub and Enterprise Centre, including a meeting space, and offices for community interest groups and business start-ups, as well as space for a Youth Group, a Food Bank, and an Archaeological Museum. The Town Council will lease the building at a peppercorn rent, and will establish a Charitable Incorporated Organisation to manage and run it. Throughout the process, the Stewart Trust have supported these proposals, and a public meeting was held last August, which saw unanimous support for these plans for the building. Councillor Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said : “I am delighted that we have today agreed this transfer of a much loved feature of Pocklington to Pocklington Town Council. This will be an excellent solution to secure the future of Burnby Hall, and opens up some wonderful possibilities for its future use, and for the local community.” Burnby Hall dates back to the 1860s, and is adjacent to Burnby Hall gardens. The hall and gardens were bequeathed in trust to the people of Pocklington by Major Percy Stewart and his wife Katherine, with the Burnby Hall Garden and Museum Trust being established in 1964 to manage the Gardens and administer the Stewart Museum. The hall was sold to Pocklington Rural District Council to raise money to maintain the gardens. It was extended in the 1980s with the construction of the Community Hall. It transferred to East Riding of Yorkshire Council when the authority was created in 1996. Covenants, which can be enforced by the Stewart Trust, mean that the building must be used by the public sector.  

Inflation creeps towards Bank of England’s target, easing less than expected

Tess Egginton
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Inflation creeps towards Bank of England’s target, easing less than expected
Inflation came in at 3.2% in March, declining from the 3.4% reported in February. Measured by the consumer prices index (CPI), though slightly higher than forecasts (3.1%), it is heading slowly towards the Bank of England’s 2% target. The largest downward contribution to the monthly change came from food, with prices rising by less than a year ago, while the largest, partially offsetting, upward contribution came from motor fuels, with prices rising this year but falling a year ago. Meanwhile, core inflation, which takes out volatile factors like energy, food, alcohol and tobacco to give a clear picture of underlying trends, came in at 4.2% in the 12 months to March 2024, down from 4.5% in February. Alpesh Paleja, CBI Lead Economist, said: “While March’s fall in inflation was smaller than expected, it’s still likely to move closer to the Bank of England’s 2% target in the next few months. But the path beyond this will be bumpy – the CPI rate is likely to rise again in the second half of 2024, thanks to base effects from energy prices. “The Bank of England will look through these ups and downs, so it’s still likely that they will cut interest rates this summer. But it’s notable that inflation is now higher than the Bank expected, and in view of this they will also be keeping one eye on the resilience in pay growth. Recent developments in the Middle East could also slow the path of inflation back down, if they feed through to higher global energy prices. “Therefore, while it’s reasonable to expect some loosening in monetary policy ahead, this is by no means a done deal.”

ABP ready to launch new Border Control Posts on the Humber

Stuart Pearcey
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ABP ready to launch new Border Control Posts on the Humber
Staff and facilities are in place ready for the opening of the Border Control Posts operated by ABP at Immingham and Hull to keep the region at the forefront of trade with Europe. The posts have been built to Government specifications, and are fully equipped to handle a huge range of products. The team operating the BCPs is headed by Kerry Costello, who’s preparing for the end of the month opening when new Government requirements come into force for the biosecurity of trade with Europe. The Assistant Operations managers involved in running daily operations and managing the various inspection agencies and government bodies who will be working the units, have all come from within ABP. Kerry, who previously worked within the Humber’s safety team, has a background in setting up new operations and has relished the challenge to get the two buildings off the ground and operational. Simon Bird, Regional Director of the Humber ports, said: “We have worked very hard and committed millions of pounds of investment to deliver these two new state of the art border check posts. The Humber is a critical gateway to European and global markets – the UK’s largest by volume – and we’ve put the right resources in to manage them and provide customers with the options they need.” Kerry and her team haven’t been daunted by the high-profile nature of the BCPs and the difficulties of delivering high quality port operations in a complex government led context. They’ve rolled their sleeves up and taken the challenge on.” Kerry added: “My predecessor did a great job to get them to where we were at the start of the year and my team have picked up and completed the tasks in hand. Each relishing the challenge and bringing their ideas to the table in the process. “The level of communication between ABP and North East Lincolnshire Council Port Health and Hull and Goole Port Health Authority has been phenomenal. We’ve built up good relationships with the other regulatory bodies and ensured that communication has been clear. “We’ve run some live tests with Cabinet Office, Port Health Authority, and shipping lines which have all gone well so as to ensure systems and infrastructure all communicate behind the scenes.” The Border Control Posts at Immingham and Hull ports have been approved in line with GB legislation for carrying out checks on animals, animal products (meat, seafood, dairy), plants and plant products arriving through the ports. Border Force will also have a presence at both sites for custom checks and procedures. There are 17 bays in Immingham and seven in Hull and allow checks to be carried out in a safe and controlled environment.

Biffa acquires Hull pellet plant

Tess Egginton
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Biffa acquires Hull pellet plant
Biffa, the waste management firm, has strengthened its Resources & Energy capability following the acquisition of a business that transforms residual waste into fuel. Biffa has acquired the entire share capital of Eco-Power Green Energy Ltd, a subsidiary of Eco-Power Environmental Ltd, along with a dormant plant in Hull and seven new members of staff. The plant has the capacity to produce more than 100,000 tonnes of solid recovered fuel (SRF) pellets each year from non-recyclable household waste. SRF pellets are a high quality, sustainable, alternative to fossil fuel used primarily by the cement industry. Biffa will recommission the plant over the next few months. Biffa’s Resources & Energy Division also transforms non-recyclable waste into renewable electricity for the grid, and organic compost for agriculture. Mick Davis, Biffa’s Chief Operating Officer, Resources & Energy, said: “The recommissioning of the pellet facility allows us to further diversify our capability to divert more difficult-to-deal-with wastes away from landfill and help reduce customers’ carbon footprint. “It’s an exciting opportunity for us to develop our expertise in the alternative fuels market and could potentially be a stepping stone to a broader strategy in this space.” Louis Calders, Eco-Power’s Group Commercial Director, said: “We are delighted to finally complete the sale. The acquisition of the business is testament to the vision, hard work and commitment of the Eco-Power team for the past seven years. “We believe that Biffa have all the necessary expertise and resources to take the business on to the next level and we wish them every success in doing so.”

Plans submitted for multi-million pound maritime hub

Tess Egginton
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Plans submitted for multi-million pound maritime hub

A £10 million scheme for a new Maritime Hub in Whitby has taken a major step forward.

A planning application has been lodged with North Yorkshire Council for the development, which the authority is set to build in Endeavour Wharf if the proposals are approved.

The hub will provide training and certification opportunities for the maritime, marine and offshore industries, to residents of Whitby and the wider area.

The application has been submitted following a public consultation in January and February when 69 per cent of those who responded to the survey were supportive of the scheme.

Chief executive, Richard Flinton, said: “Submitting the planning application is an exciting step forward for this project.

“The Maritime Hub will open doors to new economic growth in Whitby and help provide a route for young people into the maritime and marine industries.

“I encourage everyone in the community to look at the plans on our website and leave comments if they wish.”

Concerns about the hub being located on a flood plain have also been mitigated as the building will be designed to flood. In the event of a flood, the ground floor units will allow water to enter, and all services will be raised above one metre. After water levels drop, the units would be easily washed out.

Corporate director of community development, Nic Harne, added: “We have listened to stakeholders and consultation feedback throughout the planning process before submitting this application.

“Endeavour Wharf will still retain around 200 parking spaces and the height of the Maritime Hub will match the surrounding buildings such as The Angel Hotel.

“We have received some suggestions that following Eskdale School’s merger with Caedmon College this summer, the school site would be a better location. But existing and potential future tenants of the wharf have stated they need direct access to the water and as such the school site would not be a suitable alternative.”

The project has been developed to address a local need to develop a better supply of technical abilities in the maritime sector and put the town at the forefront of the growing renewable energy sector.

The hub will also provide accommodation for maritime businesses and service providers.

Workshops on the hub’s ground and first floors will house the current and new wharf-based operations and functions of the Harbour Authority.

There will be classroom space, engineering workshops and marine biology laboratories, offering opportunities for training and employment in areas ranging from marine biology to off-shore wind.

The second floor will be an office space for marine-based start-up businesses and other maritime industries. The space is intended to be occupied by local, regional and national businesses and organisations, making Whitby a hub of maritime activity.

University of Lincoln appoints Founding Director for new research centre

Stuart Pearcey
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University of Lincoln appoints Founding Director for new research centre
Professor Fiona Strens has been appointed as the Founding Director of a new University of Lincoln research centre focused on innovations in the use of artificial intelligence and technology in security and defence. She’ll join the University of Lincoln in next month from the University of Strathclyde, where she is currently Professor of Practice in Security and Resilience. With more than 30 years’ experience in government, industry and academia, she is one of the UK’s thought leaders in the application of novel technology, including AI, automation, machine learning and computer vision for enhancing security and building resilience. Professor Strens began her career in the Ministry of Defence after graduating with a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Cambridge, undertaking several technical and policy roles before becoming a Senior Civil Servant with responsibility for science and technology policy. After moving into  consultancy for clients in the national security sector, she co-founded and served as CEO of CrowdVision, an innovative computer vision  and analytics company, growing the company from start-up to an international business providing real-time people movement data for the safe, secure and efficient operation of major events, airports and venues. She is an advocate of science and technology skills and careers, serves as an adviser to UK Government. and is a non-executive director for Ordnance Survey, the UK’s geospatial authority, and Corps Security, a profit-for-purpose social enterprise supporting veterans’ charities. She said: “The University of Lincoln has a well-earned reputation for its approach to industry-aligned research, for supporting innovative organisations and partnering nationally and locally to deliver impact and drive growth in the Greater Lincolnshire region. The University has expertise in a range of disciplines essential for advancing defence, security and resilience capabilities. I am particularly excited by the potential to build on the University’s strong AI foundations. “These qualities attracted me to the University and this exciting new position as Founding Director of the Centre for Defence and Security Artificial Intelligence. I look forward to meeting colleagues and partners as we establish this significant new centre for academic, industry and government collaboration.” Major General (Retd) Julian Free CBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lincoln, said: “The appointment of Professor Fiona Strens as Founding Director of the new Centre for Defence and Security Artificial Intelligence is testament not just to the existing specialisms and partnerships in Lincoln and Greater Lincolnshire but the potential to grow the technical capabilities which keep people and infrastructure safe and underpin tens of thousands of jobs in the future. “The CDSAI will address challenges in all areas of national security, including building security and resilience in multiple sectors, such as food and energy, and supporting effective strategic, operational and crisis decision-making in the defence sector and beyond.  Professor Strens brings a remarkable range of expertise and experiences across the public and private sectors, which can help the CDSAI play a significant role in solving complex challenges facing governments and businesses in the 21st Century.”

Connectus expands nationwide reach with acquisition of Grimsby firm

Tess Egginton
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Connectus expands nationwide reach with acquisition of Grimsby firm
Business managed service specialists Connectus has acquired tech specialists IT For Growth. The deal is the second in the space of five months. By acquiring the Grimsby-based firm, Connectus, which has offices in Salford and Doncaster, will be able to extend its reach into North East Lincolnshire. Roy Shelton, CEO of Connectus, said: “This is another major chapter in the story of Connectus. As we continue to scale, we will continually explore potential acquisitions to ensure we can provide our range of fully managed services to as many businesses as possible. “This acquisition will allow us to extend into North East Lincolnshire and beyond. The MSP space is experiencing huge consolidation at the moment and as we continue to remain focussed on sustainable growth and outstanding customer services. As a result we will be aiming to complete several more transactions this year.” The deal comes five months after Connectus acquired Mango Tech. Outlining his future vision for Connectus, Mr Shelton added: “At the heart of the service Connectus delivers is the Connect-Protect-Collaborate mantra. We can now extend these principles into new areas, offering clients cutting-edge and industry leading services. “We have an ambitious growth plan, which is focused on delivering quality outcomes to businesses that mitigate cost, lower complexity and reduce risk. This acquisition will further help to deliver that.” Jonathan Cozens, the CEO of IT For Growth, said: “I’m delighted to confirm this acquisition. Connectus demonstrated to me that the support, growth and long term development of our customers are of the highest importance to them. They offer a notably better support level than we can deliver at our current size. “Although we have been very successful at delivering a first class customer experience over the last seven years, the limited size of our team means we don’t have the breath strength in depth to deal with the size of the opportunity around our client base and the local area. “Connectus’ superior scale means they will be able to provide an ongoing technology partnership for your business as you grow. Their track record in enterprise IT systems means they can advise from a position of authority on how best to achieve the commercial outcomes you want, regardless of intended size.”

JMG Group acquires large independent insurance broker

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JMG Group acquires large independent insurance broker
Leeds’ JMG Group has acquired BQI Insurance and sister company BQI Protection.
The acquisition of BQI Insurance represents a strategic move for JMG Group, strengthening its profile in the construction, fleet and liability insurance sectors and enhancing its client servicing capabilities. It will increase the JMG Group team by 46 people and gross written premium by £25m. It also expands the group’s geographical reach with a presence in London, Wellingborough and Perth. BQI Insurance was established in 2006 by co-founders Andy Brown and Sean Quinn, who have a strong track record of building quality insurance broker businesses. BQI Insurance specialises in construction, fleet and motor trade, as well as difficult to place risks. Andy Brown, BQI co-founder, says: “The investment is a great opportunity for our businesses to continue to flourish whilst retaining our identity. “We never rest on our laurels; we want to be on the front foot and we believe partnering with JMG Group will give us the added competitive edge we desire. It offers a significant opportunity for our employees to grow their portfolios and develop professionally. “JMG Group is an excellent fit for our business as it aligns with our family style and people focus, allowing us to do what we do best which is looking after our clients and winning business. We’re excited to collaborate, grow and learn from our colleagues across the group, which does not feel too large.” JMG Group has also acquired BQI Protection, a personal cover, business protection and employee benefits insurance broker. It was established in August 2018 by Andy, Sean and Malcolm Robertson, who holds a 50% stake in the venture. Under Malcolm’s leadership, the team is expanding through recruitment, broadening the range of insurer options, and experiencing notable revenue growth. Malcolm says: “Being a part of JMG will provide a tremendous opportunity for the group to leverage the advice and products we can provide, fostering substantial growth for all involved.” Nick Houghton, JMG Group CEO, says: “Andy and Sean have built a great business and absolutely share our obsession with organic growth and data. Welcoming Malcolm on board will also bring valuable expertise to the wider group. “To have an opportunity to invest in the team and help them continue their growth and success is a real privilege, and one I’m looking forward to being part of. A big thank you must go to Andy and Sean for approaching us when they were thinking about their next chapter.”

Private equity firm backs specialist Maintenance, Repair and Operations business

Tess Egginton
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Private equity firm backs specialist Maintenance, Repair and Operations business
NVM Private Equity (NVM) has backed a specialist Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) business, MRO+ Solutions Limited (MRO Solutions). NVM are backing the incumbent team led by Matt Cattell who has overseen a 50% expansion in revenue since joining four years ago.  Grimsby-based MRO Solutions is a highly technical, value-added distributor of critical products to a range of process and manufacturing industries. The Group operates nationally through its wholly owned subsidiaries, MJ Wilson and Helix Tools. MJ Wilson is a specialist value added distributor of process instrumentation and control products servicing the energy, power generation and process industries. Helix provides technical support to a range of precision manufacturing clients supporting their tooling requirements. The market is highly fragmented providing the backdrop for an attractive buy and build opportunity to supplement organic growth plans. As part of the investment, funding for acquisitions has been reserved to enable the group to accelerate the M&A strategy post investment and consolidate the market. On completion, Kevin Appleton will be joining the board as Non-Executive Chairman; Kevin has significant experience in the distribution sector and extensive M&A expertise.   Matt Cattell, Managing Director of MRO+ Solutions, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with NVM Private Equity. This partnership will enable us to further strengthen our position in the market and capitalise on new opportunities, through organic and acquisitive growth. “With NVM’s support, we are confident that we can continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers and team members, driving long-term success for our business.”  Charlie Pidgeon, Investment Partner of NVM, said: “We have been highly impressed with the quality of the senior leadership team, the growth they have achieved and their vision for the future. We look forward to fully supporting the team in achieving their organic growth plans and pursuing acquisitions to consolidate what is a highly fragmented market.” 

Games developer delivers solid revenue performance while slipping to pre-tax loss

Tess Egginton
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Games developer delivers solid revenue performance while slipping to pre-tax loss

Team17 Group, the Yorkshire-based games developer, has delivered a solid revenue performance, while slipping to a pre-tax loss of £1.1m.

According to unaudited final results for the year ended 31 December 2023, revenues grew 12% to £159.1 million, up from £142.3 million in 2022, with 17 new games and apps released in the period alongside six existing games released on additional platforms.

A thorough review of the Games Label strategic direction (now re-focussed on its core Indie games roots), cost base structure and processes was completed in the last quarter of the year, with headcount reduced to 348 from 392.

Steve Bell, Chief Executive Officer of Team17, said: “While 2023 presented some challenges for the Games Label, the speed and tenacity with which the teams have responded has demonstrated the exceptional talent we have at Team17.

“The Games Label is now realigned to its proven low-risk Indie model, tighter cost controls have been enforced and one-off actions taken to clean up the balance sheet.

“We are back on form in 2024, with a solid slate of games and apps, our exceptional back catalogue and a clear plan for growth across the Games Label, astragon and StoryToys. The year has started well.”

Yorkshire & Humber worst performing UK area as business activity decline quickens in March

Tess Egginton
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Yorkshire & Humber worst performing UK area as business activity decline quickens in March

The headline NatWest Yorkshire & Humber PMI® Business Activity Index – a seasonally adjusted index that measures the month-on-month change in the combined output of the region’s manufacturing and service sectors – signalled an intensified slump in the local economy at the end of the first quarter.

Falling to 46.9 in March, from 48.3 in February, the headline index signalled a second straight monthly decrease in business activity across Yorkshire & Humber, and one that was the quickest since October last year.

Notably, Yorkshire & Humber was the worst-performing part of the UK, both in terms of business activity and new orders during March. In fact, the region was the only monitored UK area where output levels shrank at the end of the first quarter.

The amount of new business secured by private sector companies in Yorkshire & Humber continued to decrease in March, in line with the trend since May last year. The rate of decline also gathered pace and was the quickest in four months. Weak market conditions were commonly noted as a reason for fewer sales.

The contraction seen locally contrasted markedly with expansion for the UK as a whole. Of the 12 monitored UK areas, Yorkshire & Humber registered the steepest slump in new orders during March.

With new business intakes continuing to fall, private sector companies across Yorkshire & Humber cleared more outstanding orders. Overall, this marked the thirteenth consecutive month of backlog depletion. Furthermore, the decrease was the strongest in four months and the fastest of all 12 monitored parts of the UK.

March survey data signalled a strong level of optimism towards Yorkshire & Humber business activity for the next 12 months. According to respondents, new client wins, investment and expectations of a pick-up in the UK economy supported confidence.

The growth outlook across the region was stronger than seen for the UK overall.

The seasonally adjusted Employment Index remained in sub-50.0 contraction territory during March, signalling back-to-back months of job cutting across Yorkshire & Humber. Redundancies and the non-replacement of voluntary leavers were linked to headcount reductions.

Although the decrease in staffing numbers was marginal, Yorkshire & Humber was one of just five parts of the UK to record job losses in March.

Although the seasonally adjusted Input Prices Index for Yorkshire & Humber fell to a five-month low in March, it remained well in excess of both the 50.0 no-change mark and its long-term average, signalling a further steep monthly rise in firms’ operating expenses. According to panel members, supplier fees and salaries were sources of inflation.

In response to persistent cost pressures, private sector companies in Yorkshire & Humber charged higher prices for their goods and services at the end of the first quarter.

The local rate of output price inflation was strong overall but eased slightly since February and was below that seen for the UK as a whole.

Malcolm Buchanan, Chair of the NatWest North Regional Board, said: “The latest survey data mark a particularly grim end to the first quarter of 2024 for the Yorkshire & Humber economy, being the only part of the UK where business activity shrank in March. Order books and employment are key reasons for this, with both declining once again.

“That said, despite a disappointing month, this has not served to knock business confidence, which remains at a strong level. This should provide some assurance that these weak figures are temporary, and activity and demand indicators should hopefully pick up as we move towards the summer.”

Specialist seed duo will offer advice from Northumberland to the Midlands

Stuart Pearcey
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Specialist seed duo will offer advice from Northumberland to the Midlands
Agrovista Seeds has appointed two seed specialists to help meet increasing demand from growers looking for technical expertise and advice. Eastern seed sales manager James Barlow has taken on responsibilities for the East Midlands, East Anglia and the East, whilst northern seed sales manager Marc Lanham is looking after Yorkshire, Durham and Northumberland. James grew up on an arable farm in Nottinghamshire and gained a degree in Agriculture at Lincoln University. He joins Agrovista after more than 10 years with Gleadell/ADM Agriculture where he rose through the ranks to become head of seed. Marc gained an HND in Agriculture at Bishop Burton College. After creating a successful business as a self-employed contractor providing agricultural labour and services throughout Holderness, he joined Nickerson (LG UK) as a seed specialist in 2011 and was promoted to northern seed manager six years later. James says: “Our main role is working with Agrovista’s agronomists, who are trusted first points of call for many of our growers. We supply those agronomists with key information to help customers make the best variety choices for their farms without having to go through what can be a laborious decision-making process. “With cereals and oilseed rape, we offer a mix of the best mainstream varieties and our own exclusives, based on our rigorous testing regime over several seasons and a range of growing conditions. “Agrovista is not afraid to give it a go, putting money behind these varieties, and it is an area we want to build.”

Drax Community Fund adds more than £19,000 to Yorkshire organisations

Stuart Pearcey
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Drax Community Fund adds more than £19,000 to Yorkshire organisations
Drax Group is supporting 21 Yorkshire organisations through donations of more than £19,000 from its Community Fund, giving each a donation of between £500 and £2,000. Bruce Heppenstall, Plant Director at Drax Power Station at Selby, said: “I’m really proud of the work Drax does to support the community local to the power station. “The diversity of organisations that will benefit from the funding announced by our new Community Fund means we will be supporting lots more people across the county, including residents, charities and non-profits, which do really important work to enhance people’s lives here in Yorkshire. “Through these donations we want to advance participation in STEM education and improve opportunities for people, and we aim to enhance green spaces, so residents have better access to nature.” The projects involved include:
  • Women in Tech, York: Encouraging young women to go into STEM careers, holding free monthly meetings, where local women can learn about career opportunities and meet role models in the industry.
  • Marshlands Primary School, in Goole: Pupils have been working with the local council to improve their local park, to install a wildflower patch and improve public facilities in the park.
  • Western Wolds Men in Sheds, East Yorkshire: Construction of nesting boxes designed for barn owls and little owls to encourage nesting in the local area.
  • Ryhill Junior, Infant and Nursery School, in Wakefield: Providing eight iPads to school pupils to further their education.
  • Goole Community Concert Band: Helping bring the local community together by starting a local community concert band in the town for all ages.
Graham West, Treasurer of Western Wolds Men in Sheds, said: “With the Drax Community Fund grant we are funding the building of owl boxes. “At the moment we are working on 12 boxes and building is well in progress. Bob, who is a member and looks after our owl boxes, is now starting to put them up in trees in his area. “The grant has given members an interesting project to work on – either cutting out the parts, assembling or painting so thank you again”. Roger White, Member of Goole & East Riding Community Concert Band, said: “This donation from Drax will help launch our new community group of a fully inclusive concert band for our local areas in and around Goole. “The money will be used to buy musical scores, and other essential equipment for the band giving our community a place to meet, play and enjoy music, something that has been absent in the local area for a long time. Welcoming musicians of all abilities and ages, we hope to perform at bandstands and other local events for the wider community to enjoy. Thank you, Drax Community Fund.”
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