Green light for York Minster Refectory Restaurant plans
Award-winning chef Bex Toppin and partner Will Pearce of Robinsons Cafe, York, have been brought on board to run the new York Minster Refectory Restaurant as part of a development team that also includes GEM Construction (York) Ltd., The Star Group of Restaurants, and Rachel McLane Ltd.
This follows last Friday’s City of York Council’s Planning Committee unanimous resolution to grant planning permission for a new refectory restaurant on the site of the former Minster school.
GEM Construction’s chairman, Mike Green, who is joint director and partner in the new venture with The Star Group’s director Andrew Pern, said: “This is an ambitious, high quality but accessible restaurant launch in an historically sensitive refurbishment of The Minster School, York, that will benefit the people and the city of York with new jobs and a fabulous restaurant while embracing the vision of the Chapter of York, the governing body for York Minster.”
The Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York, said: “We are delighted that City of York Council granted planning permission and listed building consent last night. This excellent partnership fully embraces Chapter’s vision to create a warm, welcoming refectory facility in the heart of the city. Re-purposing the former Minster School buildings to create a wonderful new space is fundamental to the principles of sustainability set out in the York Minster Precinct Neighbourhood Plan.
“We are also delighted to work with partners whose ethos as a community employer is aligned with York Minster’s core values for openness, inclusivity and support for disadvantaged groups, such as ex-prisoners, who are often excluded from mainstream employment opportunities.
“We are confident that the new Refectory Restaurant will operate very much in the caring spiritual, historical tradition of York Minster as a place of sanctuary and alms for feeding and watering pilgrims and the needy. The venture remains ‘subject to contract’ and we continue to work closely with Gem and The Star Group to finalise the detail.”
Gem Construction chairman, Mike Green, said: “Plans are still being finalised but we expect there will be a daytime takeaway element, and day time and evening dining; we also aim to have a mix of smaller function and private dining rooms, which are relatively rare in York.”
Looking after the interior design side of the project is Rachel McLane Ltd. Rachel McLane said: “We want the Refectory’s design to be an honest, community space, unpretentious, public focused and accessible, making it look like it belongs and won’t take away from the essence of the building, by doing justice to its historical importance.
“The design concepts that we have come up with really respect and enhance the old school – the main floor Refectory restaurant space will be the space in which school pupils and staff ate their meals and hosted school concerts.”
The plans for the new Refectory Restaurant remain subject to final planning permission in a deal that is ‘subject to contract’, as York Minster, Gem Construction and The Star Group of Companies work in partnership to finalise contract arrangements.
International client win for digital marketing agency
A Leeds-based multi-national web development and digital marketing agency has secured a new client in a six-figure deal with American-based golf buggy manufacturer, Club Car.
GRM Digital, founded in 2009 by Nej Gakenyi has been appointed to support the 63-year-old manufacturing giant as its dedicated digital marketing agency and IT infrastructure partner.
GRM Digital will manage Club Car’s website, online presence, and user experience to achieve digital growth and generate quality online traffic. It will also help Club Car to expand its presence in China.
Club Car was originally founded in 1958 in Houston, Texas, and was acquired by Platinum Equity earlier this year for £1.7 billion. It is the official golf car of the PGA of America, PGA TOUR Tournament Players Club (TPC) Network and European Tour.
Nej Gakenyi, CEO and founder of GRM Digital said: “We’re delighted to welcome Club Car to our expanding portfolio of global brands who wish to improve their digital presence. We’ll be supporting them with 24/7 online assistance and offering our expertise to help solidify Club Car’s status as the leading golf buggy brand on the planet.
“A lot of companies struggle to break into China because of the complex Chinese firewall issues. This is something we have supported many global manufacturers with through our network of partners in China.”
The news comes as GRM has experienced 50% growth since the start of the Covid pandemic, growing from 18 to 29 people as companies look to strengthen their online presence. GRM forecasts continued growth of 50% over the next year, adding another 8-10 people to its team.
GRM Digital has offices in Leeds, London, Sarajevo, Amsterdam, and Islamabad and has worked with a range of world-leading brands and SMEs to enhance their online presence.
Doncaster fleet conversion specialist set to grow following six-figure finance package
A Doncaster-based fleet conversion specialist is heading for growth after expanding its product range with the support of a six-figure finance package from Lloyds Bank.
MIS Conversions, which is one of the UK’s leading providers of bespoke vehicle conversions and vehicle body building services, has used the £250,000 loan to invest in its manufacturing processes and launch two additional product lines.
Established in 2006, the business already provides bespoke conversions for a wide range of vehicles including tipper trucks and beavertail trucks, which are typically used to transport heavy commercial loads such as large-scale plant and machinery.
The firm has now expanded its offering to customers to include the production of bespoke vehicle body tops, which are manufactured entirely from polypropylene sheets and cut using state-of-the-art CNC machines before being welded into shape. The new products are typically used on the back of pick-up trucks commissioned by many of the UK’s major utility businesses and other government bodies, which require specially adapted field vehicles.
MIS Conversions has also launched its new range of towable welfare trailers, which can incorporate washrooms, kitchens, and canteen space all in one unit and are used in construction, rail, plant hire and civil engineering sectors.
To support its expansion, the business has used the loan from Lloyds Bank to invest in new tooling for sheet metal machinery, specialist moulding equipment, as well as a large-scale spray booth to paint finished products.
The firm is currently manufacturing 70 specialist polypropene tops for use on the back of pick-up trucks, which the firm expects will lead to a 20-25 per cent increase in annual revenue. It has also seen early success with the build of towable welfare trailers, with a target to produce five of these specially adapted vehicles each week.
Operating from three sites in Doncaster, which can accommodate over 700 vehicles, MIS Conversions has an annual turnover of £10million. The firm currently employs more than 135 people across its operations, after recruiting an additional ten members of staff to support its recent expansion.
Joe Warner, sales director, MIS Conversions, said: “This expansion enables us to be more agile and offer a much more bespoke range of products to our customers, at a time when we’re seeing continued growth in demand for specialist vehicle conversions. Investing in new machinery and widening our offering means we’re better placed to react quickly to new opportunities and fulfil orders within much tighter lead times.
“Lloyds Bank has been by our side for a nearly a decade and we’ve received sound guidance and support throughout our growth journey to date.”
Ben Cutts, relationship manager, Lloyds Bank, said: “MIS Conversions is a thriving player in the vehicle conversion market, with a reputation for producing high-quality and innovative products. The business always has an eye on expansion and this latest investment in new product lines is testament to its hunger for future growth.
“We will continue to champion independent businesses like MIS Conversions in achieving their ambitions, as part of our commitment to help Britain prosper.”
Significant office deal sealed at Leeds’ White Rose Park
Munroe K and Knight Frank have brokered one of the most significant office deals in the Leeds out of town office market this year.
The Leeds office agency team of Knight Frank, led by partner Eamon Fox, has let 12,414 sq ft of Grade A office space at 1 Munroe Court in the heart of the White Rose Park in south Leeds.
NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has taken a 10-year lease on the first floor of the building, relocating from the nearby Capitol Park East by Junction 28 of the M62.
1 Munroe Court, which also comprises a further 12,414 sq ft of available Grade A office space on the ground floor, is now undergoing a major refurbishment before NHS SBS occupies the space next summer. This involves a new reception and break-out spaces, high-tech features, electric vehicle (EV) charging points, 5G connectivity and PV roof panels.
Eamon Fox, who advised landlords Munroe K, said: “This is a very significant deal, underlining the fact that White Rose Park is a magnet for attracting high quality occupiers, such as NHS SBS. The Park already boasts other high-profile global businesses as part of its tenant roster, including Capita, HSBC, and leading digital sports media business DAZN.
“This deal, one of the largest of the year, also emphasises the strength of the Leeds out-of-town office market, and the trend for occupiers seeking better quality space in locations which provide a plethora of amenities for their staff.”
David Aspin, founder and CEO, Munroe K, added: “We are delighted to welcome another high quality occupier to White Rose Park. Their occupation in 2022 will coincide with the arrival of the new White Rose Railway Station, which adds the final transport spoke to our wheel. Staff will now be able to choose how they commute to the office, benefitting from easy access to cycle and walking routes, bus connectivity, as well as market-leading parking facilities.
“At White Rose Park, we never stand still in our provision of services for our community and have exciting plans for the future. 2022 will see the creation of a new outdoor gym and fitness area, additional biodiversity, more EV charging points, alongside measures to reduce our carbon footprint as we work toward net-zero and ESG ambitions. These new initiatives will complement our recently launched partnership with hero Wellbeing and the new WRP app,” said Mr Aspin.
Stephen Sutcliffe, director of finance and accounting at NHS SBS, explained: “The emergence of Covid-19 required a rapid shift to remote working to safeguard our employees whilst also continuing to provide critical business services to NHS organisations across the country – enabling them to focus their efforts on the clinical response to the pandemic.
“Since then we have learned a lot about what has worked well for our teams and, as such, are adopting a more hybrid approach to our way of working. Moving to the new White Rose Office Park supports our aim of promoting individual wellbeing and a better work-life balance. When attending the office in future our employees will have access to facilities like an on-site nursery and a ‘Borrow-a-Bike’ scheme, whilst having more convenient access to public transport.
“With the White Rose Office Park’s environmental commitments, the move is also in step with our own sustainability efforts and the wider NHS aim of being the world’s first net zero national health service.”
Vail Williams advised NHS Shared Business Services. The Leeds offices of property consultancies CBRE & JLL also represent Munroe K.
Dynamic team expansion to drive ambitious growth at Newsome
Over the last few months, temperature control and humidity experts, Newsome, has been actively recruiting key personnel to expand its experienced team – to help drive the company’s ambition to become the largest privately owned temperature control company within the UK.
The latest industry specialists to join the company include Chris Flynn, as sales manager and Rob Whyte, as contracts manager, both joining the Process Temperature Control division; whilst John Askew joins as contracts manager for the expanding HVAC & Refrigeration team.
The addition of these new recruits will enable Newsome to strengthen its presence across core markets as well as broadening into new sectors and service areas.
Chris Flynn will help Newsome drive their business growth strategy in the Process Temperature control division. He has carved a successful career in the temperature control industry, having spent the last 16 years working for ICS Cool Energy.
Chris says: “I am really excited to join Newsome. Being a smaller, privately owned company gives me the opportunity to use my skills to make a significant difference to the companies’ growth, particularly in the North & Midlands. I am looking forward to furthering my career with such a dynamic and ambitious team.”
Rob Whyte brings over 40 years of industry experience to the business, having spent the last 10 years working in the confectionary sector as technical director for Hilton Process Solutions.
Rob explains why he was keen to join: “I was looking for a new challenge. When I met Richard Metcalfe, I was really inspired by his passion and enthusiasm and vision for the business. I am really excited to join the team and play an integral part in the delivery of their business growth strategy, leveraging my extensive experience in project management and client services.”
With over 15 years in the industry, John Askew says: “I am really excited to join Newsome in their HVAC & Refrigeration team. In my previous role at Sovereign Air Movement, I worked alongside Newsome on a number of projects and was always impressed by the competence and professionalism of their personnel. I respected the fact they always worked directly with customers, rather than via third party contractors, which always led to greater customer satisfaction. I am looking forward to helping them expand their presence in this key business sector.”
Richard Metcalfe, director at Newsome, concludes: “Recruitment is a key part of our strategy to drive the business forward, to enable us to meet our ambitious growth targets. Having experienced and passionate people on our team is crucial to our continued success.
“We pride ourselves on providing a personalised, tailored solution to each of our customers. We are delighted that Chris Flynn, Rob Whyte and John Askew have recently joined us. They each bring valuable industry experience to the company, plus the maturity and motivation to help us deliver exceptional customer service.”
Over the coming months Newsome will continue with its expansion plans and looks forward to welcoming a number of additional personnel across the business in the new year.
Richard says: “We are now on the hunt for competent, highly motivated, service technicians and rental sales managers to join our fast-growing team – we invite anyone who may be interested to get in touch.”
Middlesbrough trains aspiring eye surgeons in partnership with the NHS
Tomorrow’s eye surgeons are being trained at a sight-saving Teesside clinic as part of an initiative aimed at easing the NHS’s workload.
Newmedica Middlesbrough is among the country’s first ophthalmology clinics to offer its expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to aspiring young NHS surgeons.
This is part of an agreement between independent healthcare providers and the NHS to ensure medical trainees have new opportunities to train in elective surgery or diagnostic activities in the independent sector.
The agreement came about to enable independent hospitals to support the NHS during the coronavirus pandemic.
This means that Newmedica Middlesbrough, which looks after patients from across Teesside and the surrounding area, is now giving trainee surgeons opportunities to use their skills in theatres and learn from senior clinicians.
Qasim Mansoor, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Newmedica Middlesbrough, said that his clinic will continue to develop close partnership-working with local NHS organisations for the benefit of patients.
He added: “Training is the core of becoming a skilled surgeon and something that I am very passionate about.
“Newmedica have worked closely with The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough to provide a training programme for ophthalmic trainees and we are already receiving positive feedback from the trainees and patients.
“We are very proud as an independent provider to be involved in this invaluable programme of education.”
Middlesbrough is setting the trend for other Newmedica clinics, which are finalising their plans for trainees and hope to be involved in the next few months, with trainee surgeons working in every Newmedica facility around the country.
Nigel Kirkpatrick, Newmedica Clinical Director, said: “The next generation of surgeons will undoubtedly benefit from spending dedicated time in our modern surgery centres, where they’ll have the opportunity to see lots of patients.
“We offer closely supervised training sessions with experienced consultants to allow the trainees to increase their skills. Surgery is an apprentice-style skill where the trainees and consultants work closely together to remove cataracts, treat eyelid diseases and perform laser treatments that restore vision.
“Learning as a doctor never ceases and the trainees often bring new ideas and concepts to our training sessions, allowing even the most senior surgeons to adapt techniques to improve outcomes for patients.”
Newmedica was started more than 10 years ago. Its clinics already provide services for NHS CCGs, NHS Trusts and Foundation Trusts, as well as other providers of NHS-funded services – caring for more than 120,000 patients a year.
Newmedica’s clinics across the country offer a range of specialist eye-care services, including glaucoma management and cataract surgery.
Further information about Newmedica is available at www.newmedica.co.uk.
Local holiday homes manufacturer donates Christmas presents to families in need
Victory Leisure Homes, the East Yorkshire holiday homes manufacturer, has donated various Christmas treats to local family crisis intervention charity Bundles of Joy to support vulnerable families over the festive period.
The items have been donated by colleagues at both the Gilberdyke and Hull sites. These items are now on their way via Bundles of Joy to families across Hull and East Yorkshire so that children and teenagers can celebrate Christmas with treats and presents to open on the big day.
Gary Corlyon, managing director of Victory Leisure Homes, said: “No matter our circumstances, everyone deserves to celebrate Christmas.
“The recent pandemic showed us all just how important the feeling of community is, so the whole team at Victory were more than happy to bring in all things festive to help those that might not have the means to give presents and celebrate this year.”
Victory is a big supporter of Bundles of Joy, having previously donating the entirety of its prop inventory to the charity.
Gillian McKenna, trustee and volunteer at Bundles of Joy, added: “Many families in our local community are already finding it difficult to make ends meet, and Christmas, rather than being the happy occasion it should be, can pile on additional pressure and stress. We are incredibly grateful to the team at Victory for their continued support and for helping us to make the festive season special for the children we support, who might otherwise go without presents or treats on Christmas Day.”
With Christmas fast approaching, Bundles of Joy is helping families that are going to find Christmas particularly hard this year. The charity is accepting donations of chocolate advent calendars, selection boxes, Christmas chocolate treats, and new toys and gifts for boys and girls for all ages from newborn up to 16 years until Monday 13 December.
To find out more about how to donate items, visit www.bundlesofjoy.org.uk or contact the charity on: hello@bundlesofjoy.org.uk.
For more information on Victory Leisure Homes visit: www.victoryleisurehomes.co.uk.
Experienced audit manager joins Hentons
An experienced audit manager has been appointed at Yorkshire-based chartered accountancy and business advisory firm, Hentons.
Lee Milligan has over 25 years’ industry experience and will be managing a team of auditing professionals who are based across the firm’s Leeds, London, Sheffield, Thirsk and York offices.
After completing a BA Hons degree in Accountancy and Business Studies, Lee started his career in Stoke-on-Trent before moving to a firm in Manchester. He has recently been working as the audit and accounts manager at Paylings Ltd in Wakefield. Lee is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
Lee said: “A well-run audit gives management and third parties assurance in the published financial figures and highlights any weaknesses in client systems, errors and potential fraud. It also makes meaningful unbiased recommendations to improve performance in the future. I pride myself on adding value to clients by providing excellent service and ideas that play a vital role in driving businesses forward.
“I wanted to join Hentons, as the firm has an excellent reputation for its audit and accountancy services, as well as offering corporate finance and legal services, and there are plenty of opportunities to build on its impressive client base.”
Partner, Mark Bain, from Hentons, said: “All the audits we carry out are unique to the specific operational, financial and regulatory risks faced by each business. Our highly experienced team identify areas that can improve a company’s tax position, whilst also providing assurances and financial guidance to support future growth. Lee is the ideal fit for Hentons, and our team and clients will benefit from his experience and dedication.”
CPP lets speculative build at Ashroyd Business Park
Commercial property lettings experts Commercial Property Partners (CPP) has completed a significant letting at the Ashroyd Business Park at Barnsley, South Yorkshire.
CPP has agreed a letting at Ashroyd 52, a 52,871 sq. ft speculative new build, on behalf of commercial real estate specialists, 4th Industrial.
The self-contained unit offers a glazed feature entrance, 2,551 sq. ft of first floor office space, secure gated yard, separate parking facilities, two loading doors, as well as a further three dock leveller loading doors. Its BREEAM rating is Very Good along with an EPC ‘A’ Rating. The new tenants will also enjoy superfast-broadband and mains gas connectivity.
Ed Norris, Director at CPP, comments: “We’re delighted to conclude this letting at Ashroyd 52, which reflects both the quality of space and the strength in the commercial industrial market across the region and along the M1 corridor.
“South Yorkshire is in strong demand at the moment, particularly Grade A industrial units over 50,000 sq. ft, which are in very short supply and therefore not staying vacant for long.”
Gareth Jones of Jones Granville, acting for their client commented ‘The unit presented a quality opportunity in a great location, which fitted my clients brief. We were pleased to conclude the negotiations given the lack of availability across the region and the quality of the building.’
Faye Fleming, Asset Manager at 4th Industrial added: “We are very pleased to agree this significant letting after recently acquiring the estate. The time taken to find a quality tenant at the location is testament to our agents CPP and Savills.
“The remaining units all have strong interest, and we hope to have more announcements in the near future.”
Half of Yorkshire construction firms not confident they will achieve net zero by 2050
As the urgency for the shift to a net zero economy becomes more prominent, a brand-new piece of research has identified that nearly half (43%) of the UK construction industry is not confident they will achieve net zero by 2050, and this is even higher in the Yorkshire region at 51%
For the sector, which contributes over 40% of the UK’s total carbon footprint, to reduce
emissions and achieve net zero by 2050, it needs to address three key challenges, according to a piece of industry research commissioned by Bramble Energy – a hydrogen fuel cell technology startup:
1. Education and an understanding on the solutions available
2. A net zero ambition which is realistic and ultimately, achievable
3. Full transparency on the government funding available.
Research specific to the Yorkshire region follows the national trend. Over three quarters (81%) of participants believe the government can be clearer in how it expects the construction industry to hit carbon targets and ensure the net zero ambition is not a pipedream. The survey also revealed that nearly four fifths (81%) of the construction industry, 74% regionally, has not taken advantage of any hydrogen government funding schemes available to them. In Yorkshire, 57% of the industry know funding is available – nationally it is just under a half (48%).
Chief product officer, Peter Sayce, at Bramble Energy says: “Inherently the construction industry is a heavy carbon emitter and continues to be the focus of many planned government initiatives and policies, as well as public scrutiny. The urgency to act on climate
change has never been greater, and the construction industry – like all others – has a moral and legal responsibility to address the climate emergency and accelerate sector decarbonisation.
“The construction industry is already demonstrating clear intent with the launch of major
projects like HS2. Yet our survey revealed some genuine challenges that continue to face the sector in order to achieve net zero. Yes roadmaps are being put into place by industry experts but the picture being painted is that all parties have to take their share of the responsibility. Construction firms have to become better educated on solutions and support available, and the government has to be more transparent in its support.”
Earlier this summer, the UK government tipped hydrogen as being one of the country’s carbon cutting solutions by launching a dedicated strategy to kick-start the UK in becoming a world-leading hydrogen economy. The vision promises to unlock up to £1 billion in UK
government support for hydrogen and other low carbon technologies, including over £400m for hydrogen specifically. This received huge criticism from industry experts claiming the amount of funding will mean the UK will struggle to deliver at scale because it is dwarfed by the billions earmarked by European counterparts like Germany and France.
Earlier this month more than 100 organisations led by the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) launched the Whole Life Carbon Roadmap – a vision and actions for achieving net zero carbon in the construction and demolition of buildings and infrastructure.
The benefits of hydrogen power are well documented. Not only does it help reduce carbon
footprint, it is reliable and easy-to-use, its only emission is water and when in operation is
virtually silent. Yet what is stopping the construction industry from implementing it, is cost with 65 percent of participants claiming it was their biggest barrier to entry – from cost of raw materials and overall operating costs to cost of replacing legacy equipment and initial
investment.
The survey did reveal that four percent of the construction industry have already started to
implement hydrogen, with another six percent considering it in the very near future. The good news is innovation continues. Last year Siemens Energy installed a zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell to provide off grid power to the National Grid’s Viking Link construction site and JCB announced earlier this year its development of the construction’s first ever hydrogen powered excavator.
“As more and more construction firms start to strategically prioritise or consider the pursuit of a sustainable world, the more change becomes a reality in how the industry currently powers its sites. The race to net zero is proving to the world that hydrogen will be part of the solution in tackling carbon emissions – for today and tomorrow. After all the talk, it is time for action!
“The climate crisis is the biggest challenge humanity faces and speed is of the essence. COP26 presented a stark warning of the dangers involved when ignoring climate change and lack of action. Everyone has a part to play – this includes the construction industry, but more importantly, those who have access to insight, knowledge and tools to bring it to the forefront and make tackling climate change a collaborative effort,” concludes Sayce.
Industrial scheme given green light at Hull’s Anlaby Retail Park
Forty thousand square feet of industrial space has secured full planning consent at Anlaby Retail Park in Hull.
The Derwent Group, which owns the strategic development site, submitted plans to bring forward a long-consented industrial scheme in June. Work is now expected to start on site in mid 2022, ready for practical completion in early 2023.
Located to the north east of the retail park, the new 40,000 sq ft scheme will be split into a number of individual units for B2 and B8 use. Units will range in size from 1,500 sq ft to 10,000 sq ft, with the option of adding a mezzanine floor.
Andrew Day, senior asset manager at The Derwent Group, which owns the Anlaby Retail Park site, said: “We’re delighted that we can now push forward with this scheme and bring flexible and modern industrial accommodation to the local market.
“Our vision for this site is in keeping with The Derwent Group’s wider commitment to expand our industrial portfolio with high quality space in strategic locations where there is already strong amenity and good road connectivity.
“We’re currently in the process of procuring a contractor and expect work to start on site in the spring.”
David Garness, director at Garness Jones, acting agent for the scheme, said: “This is tremendous news and we expect to see high demand for the scheme. It’s been designed to reflect local market demand with a number of smaller units available, plus it has the benefits of easy access to the retail park, city and motorway network.”
Business Productivity Programme helps Elecomm target £30m milestone
A specialist business services provider is on track to see its turnover increase from £22m to £30m over the next three years after securing grant funding from the South Yorkshire Business Productivity Programme.
Elecomm, which is headquartered at Beighton Link Business Park, delivers a range of electrical, mechanical, data and IT support to businesses across the UK and counts over 130 colleges across the UK, major retailers including Asda and Ikea, as well as some of the UK’s best known construction companies amongst its growing client base.
Following the launch of a new dedicated facilities management division earlier this year, the company realised that many of the systems and procedures it had relied upon since its inception in 2003 were no longer fit for purpose.
Today, the business employs more than 150 sub-contractors working both across the UK and Europe, as well as managing its own warehouse operations and overseeing a fleet of 40 vehicles. With an increasingly complex business model, the company reached out to the South Yorkshire Business Productivity Programme to access the vital support needed to identify more effective ways of working.
Working with Key Account Manager, Claire Green, a match funded grant was secured to help Elecomm to invest in specialist business consultancy support to undertake a comprehensive review of the company’s business operation. All aspects of the business were placed under the microscope, scrutinised and reviewed, helping the company to identify more effective ways of working, as well as highlighting skills shortages within its existing workforce.
Since accessing funding through the Business Productivity Programme and as a result of the measures it has implemented, Elecomm is investing in new technology to support more collaborative working across the business. The company has also embarked upon a significant recruitment campaign, which it hopes will create a number of new roles within the business, as well as inspiring the next generation of colleagues through its apprenticeship programme.
John Hamilton, supply chain director, Elecomm, said: “We’ve enjoyed a significant period of growth in recent years, not only in the UK but also working across a number of international markets. It’s been a period that has seen us target new markets and services, as well as investing in the training and development of our staff. As the business grew, we knew the systems and procedures we relied upon were no longer fit for purpose.
“We knew the changes we wanted to make to the business would not happen overnight, and the support we have been able to access as a result of the Business Productivity Grant is helping us to build on our strengths, identify weaknesses in our business model and implement the changes we knew we needed to make to help us achieve future growth.
“As a direct result of the support we’ve received, we’re on course to achieve our growth target of £30m as well as helping us to develop clear succession plans for the business as we continue to create new skilled jobs within the local economy.”
Claire Green, key account manager, RiDO, said: “The Business Productivity Programme was developed to help businesses across South Yorkshire overcome barriers to growth, helping companies to access specialist support to enable them to take advantage of new opportunities, lay the foundations for future growth and ultimately help to create and retain skilled jobs within the local economy.
“In recent years, Elecomm has successfully launched a number of new services; however, the company recognised that as the business grew, it needed to embrace new working methods. The support provided through the Business Productivity Grant has enabled Elecomm to consolidate and identify new ways of working.
“It has also helped the company’s management team to access the specialist support needed to underpin future growth by improving communications across the business as well as overcoming skills barriers in its workforce. It’s great to see that the steps they have implemented are already helping the company to reap dividends.”
Yorkshire insolvency expert highlights the risks of giving gift cards at Christmas
As the festive season gets into full swing, Yorkshire shoppers planning to give gift cards to family and friends for Christmas need to make sure they understand the potential risks involved in buying them warns Eleanor Temple, Yorkshire chair of insolvency and restructuring trade body R3 and a barrister at Kings Chambers in Leeds.
Ms Temple says that consumers must be aware that they could lose their money if a retailer goes out of business. She continues: “While gift cards are really convenient and can be easily bought both in stores and online, itlso vital consumers understand how they can be affected if the retailer that offers them enters an insolvency process.
“If the retailer which has entered an insolvency procedure is either continuing to trade or has gone through a pre-pack administration, customers will need to check with store staff whether they can still redeem them. If the store is still honouring them, it’s generally a good idea to spend them sooner rather than later, particularly as there’s a risk that your local store may be earmarked for closure or the situation across the whole organisation may change quickly, if the firm becomes insolvent.”
A number of retailers that have gone into administration or liquidation over recent years have been unable to honour gift cards that were bought before their insolvency process began, with shoppers losing their money as a result.
In other cases, failing firms have refused to honour gift cards after a given point in their insolvency process.
With several well-known high street stores having entered insolvency during the pandemic and the wider sector continuing to face severe trading difficulties, consumers would be well advised to take these risks into account.
Ms Temple continues: “It is understandably frustrating when a retailer won’t accept gift cards during an insolvency process, but the insolvency practitioners in charge of the process are obliged to look after all creditors’ interests according to a strict hierarchy set out in law, and, unfortunately, customers are just one of many.
“Insolvency practitioners overseeing a retail insolvency have to make their decisions regarding accepting gift cards on a commercial basis and it is not a decision that they will take lightly. On the one hand, accepting them could lose the business more money, but on the other, not doing so could hurt the relationship between the retailer and its customers.”
She adds: “In the case of a pre-pack administration, where a company enters administration and is immediately sold to another buyer, then whether or not gift cards and vouchers issued prior to the administration are still honoured is up to the new owners. Although the name above the door may have stayed the same, legally it is a new and distinct entity and has no obligation to allow gift cards sold by its former incarnation to be used.”
Financial pressures on retailers can also be increased by the rental payments due to their landlords around 25 December, which is one of four Quarter Days in each year on which these bills are due to be settled, while the recent removal of the government’s pandemic business support measures has taken away a safety net that may have helped to keep many retailers in business over the last 18 months.
Wilton Developments completes warehouse letting and investment sale at Enterprise 36 Tankersley in South Yorkshire
Wilton Developments has completed a 80,500 sq ft letting and investment sale at Enterprise 36 industrial and warehouse scheme in Tankersley, South Yorkshire. Market-leading multiple services provider, USL has agreed a 20 year lease on Unit 1 for its new HQ at the scheme and the investment has been sold to CBRE Investment Management (CBREIM). Alex Whiting and Mike Baugh from the Leeds office of CBRE advised Wilton Developments.
Unit 1 is the final warehouse to be sold at the successful four unit Enterprise 36 development which is one of the most strategically located sites on the M1 corridor in South Yorkshire.
The unit provides a new headquarters for USL Group, which provides specialist construction solutions on a global basis to the telecoms, utilities, construction and energy sectors and will house state-of-the art production and warehouse facilities, as well as office space for teams and will accommodate future expansion plans.
CBRE Investment Management also recently acquired the adjoining vacant 77,500 sq ft Unit 2 from Wilton Developments and this was subsequently let to GB Eye Limited, a leading Sheffield-based licensed pop culture merchandising company as part of their growth plans.
The Enterprise 36 development was supported by Barnsley Council’s Enterprising Barnsley investment team and its nationally recognised BMBC Property Investment Fund.
Jason Stowe Managing Director of Wilton Developments said; “This is the final piece in the jigsaw of our very successful Enterprise 36 scheme in Barnsley. We are particularly pleased for BMBC that all of the occupiers we have accommodated on the scheme have maintained and indeed expanded on their businesses within the Sheffield City Region. This is good for Barnsley but also good for the region as a whole. We look forward to announcing further investment in the City Region early in the New Year.”
Ian Fairweather, Director, CBRE Investment Management, commented: “With a shortage of modern, high-quality industrial warehousing across Yorkshire, especially in the mid box sector, we are excited to have capitalized on this rare opportunity at Enterprise 36. Built to a modern specification and less than one mile from the M1, the unit offers a compelling investment rationale and we anticipate consistent returns for our investors.”
Alex Whiting, Senior Director at CBRE Leeds, said: “Wilton have developed another successful warehouse and industrial scheme in Yorkshire and it’s great to see a high calibre investor such as CBRE Investment Management make another investment in the region.”
Booster for business investment needed to sustain the recovery & unleash UK’s potential – CBI economic forecast
The foundations for the UK’s economic recovery remain firm despite global supply challenges weighing on growth in the near-term, according to the latest CBI economic forecast.
However, short-term headwinds – including rising costs and shortages – have grown since the business group’s previous forecast in June. Longer-term challenges, notably persistently poor productivity, underline the need for a booster for business investment to support sustainable growth.
The CBI is forecasting 6.9% growth in GDP over 2021 and 5.1% in 2022, revised down from 8.2% and 6.1% respectively. It should be noted that this largely reflects weaker than expected outturn data since the CBI’s previous forecast. The business group’s forecast expects supply chain frictions to largely dissipate by the middle of next year. Earlier in the Autumn, the Government formed the supply chain advisory group to grip these issues.
Overall, household spending remains the key driver of GDP growth, generating 90% of growth in 2022, and two-thirds in 2023. This is supported by a further improvement in real income, and households running down excess savings accumulated during the pandemic.
The resilience of the UK’s labour market has been a real success story, thanks largely to the Government’s Job Retention Scheme, which helped stave off potentially large-scale job losses. Continued employment growth over the next couple of years also supports household spending.
Business investment appetite has recovered somewhat and, spurred by continual economic growth, it rises briefly above its pre-pandemic level at the end of 2022 (growing by 8.2% over the year as a whole). However, this recovery is short-lived, with capital spending falling from mid-2023, as the super-deduction comes to an end and the rise in corporation tax kicks in. As a result, business investment will continue to lag other advanced economies.
The recovery in exports is also expected to be lacklustre, following disappointing growth over this year so far.
The forecast predicts CPI inflation to peak at 5.2% in April next year. It is set to remain above the Bank of England’s 2% target until Spring 2023, which will hit pay packets and offsets some of the positive underpins to consumer spending.
Tony Danker, CBI Director-General, said: “The challenge for January 1st is now very clear for the UK economy. Significant headwinds and rising costs of living threaten the extent of recovery and prospects for economic success. These hurdles for firms will provide a major test for Government – can they foster sustainable UK investment and growth?
“The UK’s New Year resolution must be to give firms the confidence to go for growth. We should be raising our sights on the economy’s potential and seizing the moment. “I know from speaking with firms of all sizes that they have an ambitious investment mindset, and are anxious to implement growth plans.
“But while intentions have thawed, we’re coming up to a cliff-edge in 2023. The super-deduction is a welcome catalyst, but a one-hit wonder isn’t enough to make up for four decades of underperforming business investment. We must build on its success with targeted measures encouraging the scale of investment we need, particularly in green technologies. A booster for growth is needed to protect and build on our recovery.
“But this isn’t just a challenge for government. It’s also up to businesses to step up and be part of the solution. Investment in technology and skills are among the most important steps firms can take now that will power productivity growth.
“Government has key levers at its disposal to back business: pro-investment and pro-innovation regulation to help build new markets, a competitive tax regime that incentivises business investment across the board and new market-making interventions, for example on clean energy. Getting this mix right will pay dividends over the longer term, jumpstarting the UK’s flatlining productivity and set us on course for a brighter new year.”
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said: “We expect a pretty firm economic recovery ahead, though understandably the emergence of Omicron poses another downside risk to our forecast.
“Ultimately this underscores the need for equitable distribution of vaccines across the world – supporting lives, livelihoods and freeing our international travel sector, boosting trade too. The emphasis must be on testing and using all the tools at our disposal to keep as many global routes open as possible.
“Increasing exports is also a vital component of sustainable growth. Exporting companies are more productive, resilient and help create internationally competitive UK regions.
“Let us be candid: UK exports are being outpaced by our global peers which, if allowed to continue, will negatively impact our economy in the long term.
“We must continue to address market access barriers globally while supporting all businesses to seek growth internationally.
“The export strategy is a positive step forward with the extension of the new Export Support Service, and a welcome focus on the UK’s world-beating services sector. We now need to follow through on delivery.
“And there’s more we can do at home, too. By matching our peers on R&D spending we can build on existing UK strengths in areas like life sciences, higher education and decarbonisation to become the science superpower we all want to see.
“But let’s not forget the importance of normalising relations with the EU – our biggest and nearest trading partner – which will aid cooperation in a host of other areas.”
Key forecast data:
Jobs and household spending
- Household spending is set to increase by 7.6% in 2022 and 3.1% in 2023 as real incomes recover, and employment growth strengthens
- Recovery in the labour market continues with early data indicating only a minimal impact on jobless numbers following the end of the Job Retention Scheme.
- The CBI expect a relatively short-lived rise in jobless numbers at the end of this year, after which unemployment falls back steadily, ending the CBI’s forecast (3.8%) at its pre-COVID level.
- However, CPI inflation is expected to pick up further ahead, peaking at over 5.2% in April 2022 – driven by a combination of base effects from 2020, rises in Ofgem’s energy price cap, higher fuel prices and supply chain pressures. This will hit living standards, with real wages set to fall year-on-year for much of 2022.
- Business investment continues to recover over the coming year, rising briefly above its pre-pandemic level by 2022. However, it then falls from mid-2023 and ends the CBI’s forecast 3% below its pre-COVID level at the end of that year
- At the end of 2023, the CBI expect GDP to still be 3% below its pre-COVID trend.
- Poor productivity persists over the CBI’s forecast: despite the recovery over the next few years, output per worker remains 17% below its pre-2008 trend at the end of 2023
- With the recovery in UK exports lacklustre in the CBI’s forecast, and imports growth kicking off on a stronger footing, the CBI do not expect any support to GDP from net trade.
- The CBI expect global GDP growth (in purchasing power parity terms) at 5.7% in 2021, 4.7% in 2022 and 3.8% in 2023. Most of the economies that the CBI forecast are set to surpass their pre-pandemic levels of GDP at the end of 2022.
- But the global recovery is also likely to be very skewed, with emerging economies lagging behind, due to slower vaccine rollouts and limited space for policy support.
Mayor of South Yorkshire, Dan Jarvis, Opens Magtec’s New Facility
The Mayor of South Yorkshire Dan Jarvis has officially opened Magtec’s new facility for the design, manufacture and installation of drive systems for electric and hybrid vehicles. The Labour MP for Barnsley Central and former British Army officer met with directors, engineers, apprentices and ex-services personnel employed by the high-growth company and toured the high-tech production facilities.
Magtec is creating at least 50 new high-skilled engineering and support function jobs to help meet growing demand for its world-leading drive systems. The privately-owned company is targeting sales of £30m next year, more than double the turnover of 2021. It currently employs 145 people at its 65,000 sq ft facility in Rotherham and is recruiting across all engineering and operations disciplines.
Magtec is increasing production for existing and new customers in the commercial vehicle, rail, defence and special project sectors. Orders include drive systems for electric refuse collection vehicles, autonomous and connected electric trucks and the rail industry’s first conversion of diesel multiple units. Magtec is also supporting the British Army TD6 programme to assess the benefits that hybrid military vehicles can bring to the battlefield of the future.
Dan Jarvis, Mayor of South Yorkshire said: “I was very impressed by Magtec’s new facility and it was a real privilege to meet their highly talented team and learn more about the hugely innovative and highly skilled work they are doing to bring forward technical solutions to the challenges we face in delivering decarbonisation.
“Forward-thinking companies such as Magtec are at the absolute cutting-edge of the next industrial revolution, of which our region can be a driving force. I am looking forward to seeing Magtec grow further over the coming years and I am certain that their pioneering technology will help to shape our region’s electrical transport infrastructure, contribute massively towards our net-zero carbon targets and continue to create skilled jobs for South Yorkshire. They are a massive asset for the region.”
Andrew Gilligan, Managing Director of Magtec said: “We were delighted to welcome Mayor Dan Jarvis to our state-of-the-art facility, introduce him to our growing team and share details of our future expansion plans. Magtec is investing in new plant and people to help us scale up and fulfil our potential. Our market-leading technology, which is designed and manufactured by highly skilled engineers here in South Yorkshire, can drive the decarbonisation of the global transportation sector.”
2022 Business Predictions: Dr Edward Ziff, Chairman and Chief Executive of Town Centre Securities PLC
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Dr Edward Ziff, Chairman and Chief Executive of Town Centre Securities PLC, the property developer and car parking operator.
One of my predictions last year was that we hoped that the general public would return to the high street to support local and national businesses and for us to see a return to normality as soon as possible. Whilst we are still a far cry away from ‘normal’, it is encouraging to see the high street opening with many of our hospitality tenants flourishing as customers crave an experience finally outside of their own homes.
With this in mind, the government, local authorities, local employers and large organisations all have a responsibility to encourage their staff to safely return to the office to fill our public transport, our shops, restaurants and coffee shops and encourage the collaboration and innovation that fuels our growth and builds our future.
Town Centre Securities remain committed to our strategy and will continue to actively manage our assets, sell certain retail assets to maximise our available capital, invest in our development pipeline and acquire assets to improve our portfolio.
COVID-19 of course remains the big risk as any further lockdowns would create further damage, and the need for the Government to communicate its plans clearly in advance is crucial.
I am confident that our focus on the two growing and exciting cities of Leeds and Manchester, where we are helping to create a sense of place and purpose for living and working, will enable us to generate value for all our stakeholders as the world returns to normality.
As we take further steps towards returning to normal life, I wish everyone the very best for 2022.
Small firms sound alarm as £60bn EU import checks close in
With only one month to go until the first working day on which full import controls for EU goods will apply, a UK business group is flagging a lack of capacity among small businesses to handle new paperwork.
Currently, full customs declarations for EU goods can be deferred at the point of arrival. From this coming 1 January, however, paperwork will have to be handled up front, and notice of food, drink and products of animal origin imports given in advance.
With fewer than five weeks left to prepare for the changes, new Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) research shows that only one in four (25%) small importers who are impacted by the changes, and aware of them, are ready for them to take effect.
One in eight (16%) of the importers surveyed by the group say they are unable to prepare for the introduction of checks in the current climate, and a third (33%) say they were unaware of their introduction prior to the FSB study, but will be affected by them.
Latest figures from the ONS show total imports to the UK from the EU rose 2.2% to £57.7bn in Q3 2021. The UK’s total trade deficit widened to -£39.9 billion over the same period.
FSB Development Manager, Natalie Gasson-McKinley, said: “Given the turmoil of the past 18 months, new concerns about the spread of Covid, and this being the busiest time of year for many, it’s understandable that few firms are fully prepared for the introduction of import controls from January.
“What we’re saying to firms is: there’s still time to act. Speak to suppliers to ensure you have all you need to make declarations, consider alternative providers if that looks like an efficient way forward, and think about different transportation routes.
“Stockpiling will naturally be a temptation for those fortunate enough to have the funds for it, but there is already a squeeze on warehousing space – if everyone ramps up storage, that squeeze will only tighten.
“We’re urging the government to do all it can to raise awareness, with our support, through every channel available to it in a climate where a lot of small firms simply don’t have the cash or bandwidth to manage this new red tape.
“Too little support was made possible by the first iteration of the SME Brexit Support Fund due to narrow eligibility criteria and application timeframes. Policymakers should learn lessons from that process and launch a new fund, with the same aim of helping existing international businesses with growing admin, and inspiring new ones, but with a truly global focus.
“We’ve recently had the very welcome launch of the Export Support Service. What we need now, as these stark figures demonstrate, is an Import Support Service to empower firms with the guidance and information they require to successfully navigate global trade as it evolves.”
Work to transform heart of Grimsby given boost
Plans to transform the heart of Grimsby have been given a boost with the appointment of a specialist development management organisation to lead the project.
Queensberry, a nationally recognised regeneration specialist has been brought on board to drive the “Future High Streets” town centre project forward which will create a mixed use cinema and leisure space and a new market in the centre of Grimsby.
Queensberry will coordinate the whole project, from overseeing the work to progressing planning applications, developing the business plans, through to the construction of the new facilities.
Queensberry has been working in partnership with local authority clients for over 10 years. They are currently working on a number of urban regeneration schemes that are transforming places including Barnsley, Sheffield, Doncaster, Nuneaton as well as several in London.
Cllr Callum Procter, Cabinet member for Economic Growth at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “I’m delighted to have Queensberry on board to help us really push on with our plans to transform the heart of the town and build on the great work that’s already been done at St James’ Square and Garth Lane.”
Charlotte Dunlop, Asset Manager at Capreon, the asset managers for Freshney Place, said: “With their vision, knowledge, and extensive credentials, we are confident Queensberry will drive the successful delivery of this exciting town centre project.”
Paul Sargent, CEO, Queensberry, said: “We can’t wait to get started on the scheme with Freshney Place and the Council. We have a huge amount of experience of working with local authorities and understand the challenges that lay ahead. We recognise that Grimsby has its own personality and we will work closely with the Council and the community to restore civic pride and deliver a sustainable long term future for the town.”
This decision means that the Council, in partnership with town centre regeneration specialist, Queensberry, will now progress to the design and consultation phase, with plans to consult local residents and businesses to be announced in the coming weeks.
Earlier this year, the government awarded £17.3 million for the Future High Streets Fund bid from the Council and the owners of Freshney Place Shopping Centre.
The project will provide a leisure-led scheme for the centre of Grimsby town which incorporates a new market and food hall alongside new leisure and retail units and a new cinema.
The overall aim of the project is to provide a new space for people to enjoy the town centre’s day and evening economy.
The scheme will be delivered through the removal of some of the 1960s and 1970s buildings and retail space at the western end of Freshney Place.
How can business directors expand their companies in 2022
Most entrepreneurs dream of growing their businesses from strength to strength. Of course, trajectories of success can vary wildly.
Many companies have been focused more on survival than earnest growth recently. However, it’s to be hoped that 2022 will yield more optimism. Consumers are itching to spend, and many sectors will be keen to grasp every opportunity possible to make up for all the lost time.
A strategic expansion could be well-timed here. Nevertheless, if you’re a company director, you’ll still need to go about things reasonably. You’ll find some ideas that are worth contemplating further after the jump.
Developing a New Building
Many businesses have gone fully remote or undertaken some form of hybrid working. Therefore, if you’re going to operate within a workplace, it should be a magnificent statement about what your firm is capable of.
Developing a new building for your business could give you more space to work in, situate you somewhere more exciting, and generally revitalise your company. Even the building architecture can send a powerful message about your firm’s significance and stature. Building your own state-of-the-art commercial property will allow you to create a uniquely mesmerising base too.
To maintain the best standards possible, working with expert design building services is crucial. Innovative companies like Arup bring greener futures to all of their building developments, improving your reputation. They will collaborate with you closely to ensure all of your needs are met and strive to deliver cutting edge scientific and industrial facilities.
Doubling Down on Delivery
Online shopping reached new heights of popularity during the pandemic. Moreover, these consumer demands aren’t set to fade away any time soon.
Still, while businesses found success here, things didn’t always go to plan. A common complaint in 2020 was that deliveries sometimes arrived late or went missing entirely. The logistics here are tough to straighten out, and not every firm can make things work here, overpromising instead of (literally) delivering.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to improve your delivery methods while your competitors either refuse or fail to do so. Expand your vehicle fleet and hire more drivers. Alternatively, you could hire a courier service to handle certain orders as well. Remember, there are lots of customers who won’t trade with a business again if their delivery is compromised in any way, so getting things right is vital.
Flourishing in Digital Marketing
Even with an impressive business premises and a capable delivery system in place, it all needs to be advertised clearly. Digital marketing can play an instrumental role in making that happen.
You can recruit talented staff for your efforts in search engine optimisation, pay per click advertising, and a host of other digital marketing related efforts. Additional hires in things like video production and content writing may also be prudent, giving your customers something exciting to engage with online.
If you feel too much pressure here, a digital marketing agency could alleviate some of the stress. That way, you can be sure as many people are seeing your business as possible while you attend to other matters. Digital marketing has helped many enterprises survive the pandemic, but in 2022, it could help yours thrive.
