MARCH 2025 £3.50 YORKSHIRE & LINCOLNSHIRE’S LEADING BUSINESS MAGAZINE www.blmgroup.co.uk VOLUME 40 ISSUE 3 Technology and sustainability are shaping the industry A region of innovation The economic pressures on UK businesses and consumersThe magazine that cares We care because we want to leave our world a better place than we found it Business Link believes that being socially and environmentally responsible is the key to maintaining a flourishing business that our customers will be pleased to use and our staff will be proud to be part of. Community - From a very local point of view, we strive to be a ‘good neighbour’. We also extend that into the much broader local community, through financial support of local causes and charities. Environment - Our actions extend to: conservation of energy and natural resources, minimisation of waste and ensuring our trading partners do likewise. Welcome… As we approach the end of the financial year, many businesses will be looking toward the 2025-2026 year and wondering what it may bring. With global instability at an all-time high and concerns of foreign aggression on the horizon, there’s much reason to worry, but increased investment in domestic affairs from a government trying to make the UK self-sufficient in case the worst happens can be good for local businesses. It’ll be even better for them if these measures are taken but never needed. New government consultations on bills to protect the steel industry and invest in defence could mean an uptick in manufacturing in our region, along with increased job security. This comes at a good time with Donald Trump’s tariffs likely to increase the cost of living in the UK despite promises the UK will be spared from them. It’s obviously a worrying time to be in business but the important part of these measures to make the country sufficient is that they can be just as useful a deterrent as armed forces. A strong economy will provide a strong foundation for the UK to defend itself, and that alone is reason to welcome such measures. Good reading, as always. Michael Fisher Editor Editor From thecontents march 2025 6 News The latest business news and success stories from around our region. 10 Commercial property With major redevelopment projects abound, cities and towns across Yorkshire are preparing for a new future. 14 Petrochemical spotlight Technology and sustainability are reshaping the petrochemical industry. Companies are adopting digitalisation, automation, and alternative feedstocks to cut emissions, but high costs and geopolitical risks pose challenges. Balancing innovation with economic realities will be key to the sector’s future. 18 Hull and the Humber Bank Hull and the Humber Bank are evolving; embracing innovation, decarbonisation, and developments that ensure their future prosperity. 23 Law/legal services The Employment Rights Bill will change the way many businesses interact with their employees. We look into it here. 26 Finance The UK economy is facing shifting pressures, from rising inflation and interest rate changes to new tax policies and global market disruptions. As businesses and consumers navigate these challenges, understanding key economic indicators is crucial. 30 Materials and components The construction materials industry has suffered over the last few years but glimmers of recovery are there – and steel might have an exciting future thanks to government plans. 34 Freight, storage and movement International trade is in a bad spot right now, and ocean freight is suffering. However, it’s not all bad news for road and air. 38 AutoLink There are always new motors on the horizon, ranging from entry level to business executive. Here are a few that might make it to our roads. • We put the Subaru Forester through its paces. 44 Corporate hospitality Running your own event is about more than just getting up on stage and speaking. You need to make sure everything is prepared in advance. 46 Events We take a look at business events happening around Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. 48 And finally… Yorkshire-Lincolnshire- Business-Link @blmforum blmforum.net connect with us 10 18 34Group Editor Steve Fisher (s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk) Editor Michael Fisher (m.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk) Journalist Tess Egginton (t.egginton@blmgroup.co.uk) Editorial contact newsdesk@blmgroup.co.uk Tel: (01472) 310305 Fax: (01472) 310317 Angela Cooper (a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk) Tel: (01472) 310301 Fax: (01472) 310311 Tel: (01472) 310304 Fax: (01472) 310314 Haychart Ltd, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, N.E. Lincs., DN31 2QE. reproduced, transmitted, photocopied, recorded or otherwise without express permission of the copyright holder, for which application should be addressed first to the publisher. While every reasonable care is taken, neither the publisher nor its prints, colour transparencies, negatives or other material of whatever nature submitted to this publication. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of COVER PHOTOS: STOCK.ADOBE.COM - MOOFUSHI • INDUSTRIEBLICK • CHRIS CHAMBERS • KANNAPAT • JEZ CAMPBELL www.blmforum.net 146 Business Link www.blmforum.net Ukraine and Lincolnshire partner on agricultural collaboration Lincolnshire has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ukraine’s Kherson Oblast to explore agricultural cooperation. The agreement aims to support the war-affected region through knowledge-sharing and potential business partnerships. Oleksandr Prokudin, governor of Kherson, visited Lincoln to formalise the partnership with Councillor Colin Davie of Lincolnshire County Council. Prokudin highlighted the agreement’s symbolic value and the challenges facing Kherson, which is largely under Russian occupation. During his visit, Prokudin toured the University of Lincoln’s Riseholme campus, home to the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology (LIAT), and the Siemens factory. Davie expressed hopes that Lincolnshire’s farming and food industries could offer expertise in research, technology, and innovation to assist Kherson’s agricultural sector. He also suggested potential trade opportunities could arise from the collaboration. The announcement coincides with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to Washington for talks with US President Donald Trump on Ukraine and defence. news Doncaster clean energy company continues installation of equipment for Northern Ireland Water Doncaster-based CPH2 has completed Level 1 of the Site Acceptance Test (SAT) for its electrolyser at Northern Ireland Water’s Belfast site. CPH2’s commissioning teams have been on site since early January, assembling the system. This is the first of three stages within the test. Level 1 SAT confirms that the mechanical and electrical components are checked for completion, and that the MFE’s build aligns with documentation and meets relevant safety standards. The test was conducted by Lagan MEICA Limited, the contractor to Northern Ireland Water, with oversight from engineering design specialists Arup. Lagan MEICA Limited is now moving forward with Levels 2 and 3 of the SAT, with completion expected in the first half of 2025. CEO Jon Duffy said: “The Level 1 SAT test of the MFE110 is a positive step towards achieving hydrogen and oxygen production on a customer’s site, marking a proud moment for CPH2 and Northern Ireland Water.” Gi Group advances diversity strategy with employee-led initiatives Recruitment firm Gi Group is expanding its diversity and inclusion efforts across its 26 branches and 61 sites in the UK. The company has implemented “Let’s Talk” sessions— employee-driven discussions covering neurodiversity, racial allyship, women in leadership, and men’s mental health. These initiatives aim to create an open, judgement-free space for employees to share experiences and perspectives, reinforcing the company’s commitment to inclusivity. With more than 500 employees, the programme is part of Gi Group’s broader strategy to embed diversity into workplace culture. The company’s approach has earned it three nominations at the upcoming British Diversity Awards. However, leadership emphasises that the focus remains on driving long-term, meaningful change for employees, clients, and candidates. Tech-driven billboard operator 75Media secures investment for expansion Outdoor advertising firm 75Media has secured a seven-figure investment from NPIF II—Mercia Equity Finance to expand its AI- driven platform and grow internationally. Since launching in 2020, the Leeds-based company has scaled rapidly from 140 billboard sites to over 1,200 across the UK. It recently acquired London-based iQ OOH and reported a 454% revenue increase last year. The investment will accelerate development of its AI- powered BOB (Billboard Optioning & Booking) system, streamlining ad placements, and support expansion into the US, Scandinavia, and the Middle East. Alongside the funding, 75Media has restructured its leadership. Founder Paul Inman is now CEO, Joel Turner has been promoted to managing director, and Joe Lawson is the new commercial director.www.blmforum.net Business Link 7 news SMEs promised share in work from increased defence spending pledge SMEs in the UK are set to benefit from increased defence spending, with the government pledging support to ensure small businesses share in this historic investment. A new hub will provide SMEs with improved access to the defence supply chain, and direct spending targets for the Ministry of Defence will be set by June. This initiative offers small, often family-owned firms an opportunity to contribute their innovations and expertise to strengthen Britain’s defences, while creating new jobs and boosting local economies. The government’s pledge to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a future target of 3%, aims to support economic growth. Defence Secretary John Healey highlighted that the new hub and investment targets will unlock opportunities for up to 12,000 SMEs. This move will help SMEs secure finance, train workers, and play a vital role in defence, boosting innovation and competitiveness across the UK. Third Lincolnshire library launches business hub Businesses in Grantham are being offered access to a business hub at the town’s library, featuring flexible, confidential workspaces with modern technology. The new IT suite will be equipped with business software, alongside drop-in working zones with acoustic booths and ‘bubbles’ for interviews and online meetings. These facilities have been designed with flexibility, allowing use as additional study space for library users, as well as by local education providers, community groups, and more. Visitors will also enjoy a refreshed library, with new carpets fitted throughout. Cllr Martin Hill, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “We’re investing in new facilities to support small businesses, providing three flexible working areas to meet their needs. By listening to residents and businesses, and implementing solutions like business hubs, we ensure that Lincolnshire’s libraries remain the beating heart of community life.” Grantham is the third library in Lincolnshire to benefit from business hubs, following Lincoln and Spalding, with work starting later this summer. Six-figure backing from NPIF II to drive transformative growth for C80 Solutions C80 Solutions, part of the C80 Group, has secured a six-figure loan from NPIF II – BEF Smaller Loans, managed by the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II). With a team of 44 professionals and projected annual revenue of £3.6m in 2024, the loan will enable C80 Solutions to invest in talent acquisition, resources, and cutting-edge infrastructure to support its ambitious growth plans. The business also plans to create new job opportunities, expanding its workforce by up to five positions in the coming year, contributing to economic growth across Yorkshire and beyond. C80 Solutions has achieved 30% year-on-year growth in 2024, which is set to increase to 40% in 2025. The company provides a complete range of energy assessment, compliance, consultancy, and testing services for the UK residential and commercial sectors. The funding will help the business consolidate its services under the new brand “enevo” in early 2025, enhancing visibility and providing an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to clients. Founded in 2010 and based in Birstall, West Yorkshire, C80 Solutions has built a reputation for sustainable business practices and innovation. Over the years, the company has worked with high-profile clients, including Knight Frank, Torsion Projects, Eddisons, Savills, Avison Young, and JRL Group. Mark Heptonstall, founder of C80 Solutions and Managing Director of C80 Group, commented: “This funding is pivotal for scaling operations and investing in innovation. By consolidating our services under the enevo brand, we’re positioning ourselves as a one-stop solution for sustainable building compliance.” Mark Iley, Senior Investment Manager at BEF, praised C80 Solutions for its commitment to advancing net-zero goals. Lizzy Upton, Senior Investment Manager at British Business Bank, highlighted the funding’s role in driving growth and job creation. Defence Secretary John Healey8 Business Link www.blmforum.net Hull and East Yorkshire Skills Board names Jayne as first Chair Jayne Adamson, the Exec Director of People at the Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, has been appointed as the first chair of the recently formed Hull and East Yorkshire Skills Board. She will act as a figurehead for the Board, which is supporting the development of a regional skills system for the new Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority. Jayne has held leading positions in the health sector for the last 17 years, and previously worked for companies such as Smith+Nephew and Ideal Standard. She said: “It is an incredible privilege to be appointed as chair of the HEY Skills Board. I am excited to work alongside such a dedicated group of people to foster growth, development and opportunities within our community. I believe that by leveraging our collective expertise and passion, we can create a brighter future for all, and I look forward to collaborating with local businesses, educational institutions and other stakeholders to create a robust ecosystem of support and opportunity. “By working together, we can empower individuals to reach their full potential and contribute to the prosperity of our community.” news Yorkshire Building Society shares £1m with four charities to boost employability Yorkshire Building Society is set to share £1m between four charities in Bradford to improve employability in the district. Bradford Central Foodbank, The Cellar Trust, Lower Grange Community Association, and Smart Works will receive grants from Yorkshire Building Society Charitable Foundation to support projects in deprived wards over the next three years. Laura Newton, Trustee of the Charitable Foundation, said: “The Building Bradford Skills Fund addresses the skills and employment challenges faced by Bradford communities. The funding will enable charities to deliver targeted support where it’s most needed, creating a real impact. Each beneficiary has demonstrated a clear understanding of local challenges and is offering innovative, place-based solutions.” The Bradford Central Foodbank will continue its job coaching and volunteer training services. The Cellar Trust will expand its Pathways to Employment service, while Smart Works will establish a team in Bradford. Lower Grange Community Association will offer employability and youth empowerment programmes. Sherburn-in-Elmet town centre begins £800,000 upgrade North Yorkshire Council has started a six-month upgrade of Low Street in Sherburn-in-Elmet, aiming to improve infrastructure and support local businesses. The £800,000 project, funded in part by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, includes resurfacing damaged pavements, adding parking bays, installing benches, updating signage, and creating a new town centre map. The upgrades are designed to make the area more attractive and functional for businesses, residents, and visitors. Work will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption, focusing on the stretch between The Swan pub and C & G Starkey Family Butchers. The project was designed by Align Property Partners, a consultancy working with North Yorkshire Council. Dacre, Son & Hartley acquires North Yorkshire agency Dacre, Son & Hartley has acquired the longstanding North Yorkshire-based rural property consultancy Lister Haigh. Patrick McCutcheon, head of residential at Dacre, Son & Hartley, said: “Lister Haigh complements our own services in the rural sector and provides their clients with access to our wider marketing and expertise across 18 offices.” The acquisition also boosts Dacre’s lettings division, launched last year after selling its previous portfolio in 2020. Lister Haigh’s significant residential rentals portfolio in North Yorkshire strengthens their market share. Catherine Johnston from Lister Haigh added: “The combined skillset gives us one of the most experienced rural and agricultural practices in the region, benefiting clients, our people, and the sector.” Jayne Adamson © Richard Walker/ImageNorth Laura Newtonwww.blmforum.net Business Link 9 news Work starts on major extension to Grimsby sixth form college Work has begun on a £1.1m extension at Cambridge Park Academy, Grimsby, which is expected to be completed by the end of summer. The expansion will almost double the size of the sixth form for special educational needs (SEN) pupils. This project is part of North East Lincolnshire Council’s strategy for SEN and alternative provision. Once finished, the building will accommodate up to 28 pupils aged 14-19 and 24 staff. The extension will feature a new single-storey building, 12 car parking spaces with EV chargers, a drop-off zone, and a new entrance road. The roof will have 88 solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and underfloor heating. Hobson & Porter will also provide landscaping and specialist outdoor educational play equipment. Joe Booth from Hobson & Porter said the project would reduce the distance local children need to travel for education. The academy’s expansion is supported by Humber Education Trust and North East Lincolnshire Council. Countdown begins for the 14th Annual Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo – Just 3 weeks away With just three weeks until the 14th Annual Property & Business Investment Lincolnshire Expo, preparations are underway. Sponsored by Team Lincolnshire and the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, the event will take place on 26th March 2025 at the Bentley Hotel, South Hykeham, Lincoln (LN6 9NH), offering easy access and free parking. The expo serves as a premier networking opportunity for professionals in Property, Construction, Finance, Investment, Public & Private Sectors, and Professional Services. It will feature three speed networking sessions and a networking lunch at 2:00 PM, hosted by Team Lincolnshire and the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce. Tickets for the lunch are £15 plus VAT. Registration is open. For more details on exhibitors, speakers, and to register, visit https://businessshowsgroup.co.uk/register/. From left: Councillor Philip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Christopher Glenville from Hobson & Porter, Rebecca Taylor, Head of SEND and Inclusion at North East Lincolnshire Council, Owen Peart, Trainee Architectural Technician, Paul Waites from Hobson & Porter and Lee Hartley from Hobson & Porter Kingston Engineering invests in state-of-the-art Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B turning centre Leading precision engineering manufacturers, Kingston Engineering recently announced their plan to invest significantly in new machines throughout 2025. It has already proven to be a busy start to the year, with the installation of a new Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B onto the machine shop floor at Kingston Engineering. This horizontal turning centre is a proven, multifunctional, highly customisable machine, equipped with advanced features to handle complex machining tasks. The Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B is distinguished by its solid machine beds, wide flat guides and powerful drives capable of handling the most demanding machining requirements. It ensures the superior production and performance of ultra-precision complex components with intricate features. The Hwacheon Hi-Tech 200B is a welcome addition to the already extensive machine base at Kingston Engineering. Further investment in the first quarter of this year will see the delivery of a Hwacheon Vesta-1300B+ to the Kingston Engineering site on Pennington Street in Hull. This vertical machining centre is particularly suitable for ductile materials like copper, aluminium or steel and enables high cutting rates. It's an exciting time for Kingston Engineering as they continue to invest for the future and lead the way in shaping precision engineering of the future. For further information about Kingston Engineering visit: www.kingston-engineering.co.ukNext >