< Previous40 Business Link www.blmforum.net AUTOLINK Electric Volvo ES90 The ES90 is designed to evolve over time and is powered by next-generation core computers that represent an eightfold improvement over the previous generation. It’s the first Volvo car with 800V technology for a longer range and faster charging than any electric Volvo before. And naturally, it’s designed with pioneering safety tech at its core, in a package that is set to be another Scandinavian design classic from Volvo Cars. Inside, the focus is on premium comfort, authentic materials and purpose-driven design, in line with the Scandinavian identity and design principles that are the hallmark of a true Volvo. Thanks to its long wheelbase of 3.1 metres, the ES90 provides extremely generous legroom for second-row passengers, making it an exceptionally comfortable place to travel for adults as well as children. Six interior ambient light themes for sensory well-being and a variety of upholstery options further allows users to personalise the ES90 . Volkswagen ID. EVERY1 Since the Beetle, Volkswagen has been enabling affordable mobility for millions of people with compact and likeable cars. Now, with the world premiere of the ID. EVERY11 show car, the German car manufacturer is presenting an entry-level all-electric model. Volkswagen will launch the production version in 2027 – with a starting price of around 20,000 euros. The ID. 2all1 will be launched in the 25,000 euro class as early as in 2026. Both models are part of the new Electric Urban Car Family with front-wheel drive, which is being developed under the umbrella of the Core brand group in the Electric Volvo ES90 Volkswagen Group. They are based on Volkswagen’s new modular electric drive platform: the MEB with front-wheel drive. The production version of the ID. EVERY1 will be the first model in the entire Group to use a fundamentally new, particularly powerful software architecture. This means that the future entry-level Volkswagen can be equipped with new functions throughout its entire life cycle if its users so wish. Even after purchase of a new car, the vehicle can still be individually adapted to their needs. Audi A6 Avant The new Audi A6 Avant sets design standards and stands for quality and comfort in the premium full-size class like no other vehicle. It impresses with a cleverly designed body concept and lots of variability, offering plenty of space for everyday life as well as for demanding www.blmforum.net Business Link 41 AUTOLINK recreational activities. The Audi A6 Avant models are based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), powered by modern petrol and diesel engines that are more efficient and dynamic thanks to the mild-hybrid technology MHEV plus. Additional highlights include intuitive operating and infotainment concepts, new digital lighting technology, and intelligent driver assistance systems. The A6 Avant goes on sale in the UK on April 1 priced from £52,510 (OTR). First customer deliveries are due mid-June. Advanced lighting technology makes a significant contribution to greater road safety and is an essential part of Audi DNA. The new A6 Avant also plays a pioneering role in its class in this area. The design of the headlights and rear lights is all about digitalization, which gives drivers the opportunity to customize the appearance of their A6 Avant according to their own preferences. At the same time, the digital lighting display provides innovative functions that improve communication with other road users. All the while, the lighting technology reflects typical Audi aesthetics. Volkswagen ID. EVERY1 Audi A6 Avantwww.richtoy.co.uk 1-2 King Street, Winterton North Lincolnshire DN15 9RN *Terms off Offer: 50% deposit followed by the remaining 50% paid in one payment after 12 months. Credit available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 and over. This credit offer is only available through Subaru Finance provided by International Motors Finance Limited, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH. We can introduce you to Subaru Finance and a limited number of lenders who may be able to provide funding for your vehicle. We may receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to these lenders. OTR price includes VAT, deliver, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. **3 services for £399.00 (incl. VAT) offer applicable when you purchase a brand-new Subaru Forester, Crosstrek or Outback. All services should be taken at the relevant service inter- vals - either 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes sooner. All services must be completed by an authorised Subaru Retailers. The customer’s failure to redeem the services within the designated mileage or time will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Available to retail customer only. Does not cover any non-service related parts or repairs or general wear and tear. Servicing is transferable with the vehicle. Offer available until 31.03.2025. Subaru reserves the right to amend or withdraw this offer at any time. DISCOVER THE ALL-NEW SUBARU FORESTER Available with 0% APR Representative Starting at £38,995, the all-new Forester is available with 0% APR Representative* and 3 years servicing for £399** Call us on 01724 735282 for more information, or to book a 24 Hour road test.www.blmforum.net Business Link 43 AUTOLINK Since its launch in 1997, the Subaru Forester has been a mainstay of the motoring world, with more than five million vehicles sold globally and over 400,000 cars shifted in Europe alone. The 2025 iteration keeps momentum by mixing refinement with ruggedness to become the perfect companion for adventure. The new Forester has been redesigned to express its all-weather performance with cleaner, simpler, and more subtle styling. The vehicle offers improved drivability and increased on and off-road capability over the earlier model. It matches Subaru’s iconic symmetrical, always-on, all-wheel drive system to an enhanced edition of the company’s renowned e-Boxer mild-hybrid power unit. It also boasts an improved X-mode terrain selection system and class- leading 220mm ground clearance. The Forester offers three trim levels: Limited, Field, and Touring. The test subject here is the £42,995 top-of-the-line Touring model, which is attractive with its glossy blacked-out exterior trim and 19- inch alloy wheels. Indeed, the Subaru impresses with its new looks at first glance. The front grille adds a sense of width and solidity, capped by slender signature lights and blackout headlamps that give it a contemporary feel. Fresh LED cornering lights also increase night-time visibility by lighting up the front of the vehicle while turning, helping you spot potential obstructions sooner. The side is defined by sleek lines interrupted only by pleasingly sculpted wheel arches that accommodate attractive alloy wheels, contributing to the Forester’s robust appearance. The large-opening tailgate provides a spacious cargo area, which we’ll discuss further in a bit. Plus, details, such as a hummingbird design on the windscreen and paw prints on the door trim, contribute to the Subaru’s lively personality. The new Forester comes with an 11.6- inch Full HD infotainment touchscreen with a resolution of 1920x1080 to improve the usability of its features and controls. The system has increased connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - and improved navigation compatible with what3words. The Subaru’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine delivers smooth acceleration and has gained more torque - 182Nm @ 4000 RPM. The X-mode is ideal for going off the tarmac - and has settings for stuff like mud and snow. And you’ll be glad that the front seats are designed to minimise fatigue and maximise comfort during long drives. The cabin also offers class-leading quietness thanks to active acoustic engineering. This serves to create a serene environment. Functionally, the 2025 Forester boasts an impressive 508 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,720 litres when needed. Features like the hands-free powered tailgate with a kick sensor simplify Subaru Forester An unrivalled combination of safety, capability and reliability Fast Facts New 2025 Subaru Forester: Max speed: 117 mph 0-62 mph: 12.2 secs Fuel economy: 34.9 mpg Engine layout: 2.0-litre four-cylinder Max. power (BHP): 134 CO2: 183 g/km Price from: £42,995 – as tested (Touring model). loading and unloading. The redesigned Forester’s permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive and specially engineered e-Boxer mild- hybrid powertrain manage the power split between the electric motor and engine through seamless switching between three driving modes: Engine, EV, and Motor Assist. This versatility enhances fuel efficiency according to driving conditions. All Subaru Foresters have a factory warranty of three years or 60,000 miles. The traction battery has an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty. Maintenance intervals are every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. Although it sells well globally, this model isn’t considered especially common in the UK compared with other vehicles, which adds to its appeal by ensuring you’ll stand out. Only time will reveal whether this sixth-generation Forester becomes the best-selling version to date.44 Business Link www.blmforum.net CORPORATE HOSPITALITY C orporate hospitality, wining and dining, team building and conferences, they all fell onto the backburner during the pandemic, and even years later a lot of people are slow to embrace them once more. That said, they’ve proven to be effective ways to increase engagement and secure business, but the complexity around their organisation often scares people away from trying it. We highlight the important steps in planning and arranging an event. The first step to learning how to plan an event is to visit a conference or networking event yourself. See how organisers are handling their guests and how everything is arranged. Also look at how they are inviting people, as it’s not enough to just host an event and hope people will show up – the way they market and promote it is just as important. There’s not much point investing into such a thing unless you and your business are going to profit from it after all. Luckily, there are plenty of b2b events going on in our region and networking groups are keen to get back into things. Don’t forget to include staff in this as well. Employees will be needed at the event to liaise and answer questions, and hopefully to secure deals, so be sure to pick out the most personable and knowledgeable members. It seems obvious but not everyone is good at talking to others, so you want your most friendly and chatty people at the event. Here are a few other considerations: Venue First and foremost, consider what type of event will best suit your needs and those of your guests. Are they keen sporting types who’d appreciate a day watching cricket, or would cocktails and canapes go down better? The great thing about our region is the variety of venues available, but you need to visit these venues and talk to the managers. Keep in mind your projected numbers as well. If you have 100 guests in a room fit for 100 then it’ll feel busy, but 100 guests in a room with space for 1,000 will make the event look poorly attended. Image is everything. Organisation Next, do you really want to organise and host the event yourself or would Embracing events 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. www.blmforum.net Business Link 45 CORPORATE HOSPITALITY you be better getting in a third party? If you’re not experienced at events, would you know where to find an engaging guest speaker and how much to budget? For accountants and lawyers talking on new changes to tax or law, the speaker will inevitably be from the company itself, so decide who that might be and what the event is about. People Of course, it’s also important to get the right mix of attendees – from clients to staff and the media in attendance to ensure your event gets press coverage – so, what’s likely to draw a journalist? Just as importantly, what will your guests want to achieve from attending? Be sure to invite gregarious clients who can help keep conversation flowing. Ensure staff realise the importance of keeping business talk to a minimum too – the objective, unless it’s an award ceremony, is to create an enjoyable social event, where you can get to know clients, and they you. Think outside the box At Business Link, we regularly run awards events but we recognise that some businesses just don’t want to be out until midnight and/or paying high fees to sponsor seats or an entire table. So, instead of demanding these high prices, we run more events at 4.30 - 7.00pm and we dispense with the need for a black tie. As a result, we usually draw 120 or more people, 99% of whom are decision makers in their businesses, and those who need to get back to their families can do so while those who want to stay on and network can do that. Think outside the box, don’t be afraid of smaller events – you don’t need a budget that the Great Gatsby would be proud of! In fact, people’s expectations will probably be lower than ever considering their isolation, so any gestures to bring people together and entertain will likely be appreciated. It’s less a science and more an art form, but we at Business Link do suggest everyone whet their teeth by going out and attending a few corporate events before hosting their own. It may seem obvious and it may only be a year ago that you were hosting your own, but it doesn’t hurt to practice. 46 Business Link www.blmforum.net events South Lincs Foodservice Food Show 12 March Springfields Events & Conference Centre, Spalding South Lincs Foodservice’s The Food Show returns on Wednesday, 12th March, at Springfields Events & Conference Centre. This free trade show runs from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm with free parking. Attendees can network, explore new products, meet suppliers, and discover emerging trends in foodservice. Expect exclusive deals and firsthand tastings of local, national, and international products. Open to all business sectors, the event helps industry professionals innovate, connect, and stay competitive. Register now to secure your spot. The Lincolnshire Business Awards 14 March Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln The Lincolnshire Business Awards 2025 will be held at the Lincolnshire Showground on Friday, 14th March. The event celebrates business success, innovation, and resilience across the region. Open to companies of all sizes, it offers networking opportunities with industry leaders and entrepreneurs. Tickets are limited, and free tickets cannot be used for this premium event. S.E.L to The World Summit: Connecting Lincolnshire to the World 18 March Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa The S.E.L Commerce Summit brings together the global community and local industry leaders from Lincolnshire. This summit provides an unparalleled platform for fostering international collaboration, exploring trade opportunities, and building strategic partnerships that will drive both regional and global growth. For more information visit www.lincs-chamber.co.uk/ events/s-e-l-commerce-summit- connecting-lincolnshire-to-the-world/ Wakefield Expo 26 March The Education Exchange, Knottingley The Wakefield Expo takes place on 26th Industry Brought Together: An All-New Business Event for North East Lincolnshire’s Industrial Sectors 25 March Grimsby Auditorium, Grimsby North East Lincolnshire’s industrial businesses are invited to the Industrial Connections NEL exhibition on 25 March 2025 at Grimsby Auditorium. Hosted by David Laister and featuring speakers including NELC Chief Executive Rob Walsh, the event runs from 10am to 3.30pm and aims to foster collaboration among local industries. Target sectors include manufacturing, engineering, energy, ports, and food processing. Exhibition spaces are available, and attendees can register online. The event includes presentations, networking, and local food vendors. March 2025 at The Education Exchange, Knottingley. Open to individuals, businesses, and organisations across the UK, it runs in two visitor sessions: 10AM– 12.15PM and 12.45PM–3PM. Entry is free, with 60+ exhibitors showcasing products and services. Benefits include networking, © stock.adobe.com/fizkes © stock.adobe.com/Jacob Lundwww.blmforum.net Business Link 47 learning, market research, and funding opportunities. All exhibitor stands are sold out. Free parking is available. Workshop details are forthcoming. Book free tickets via the Wakefield Expo website https://wakefieldexpo.org.uk/ Invest Yorkshire & North East England Dinner 24 April The Queens Hotel, Leeds The Invest Yorkshire & North East England Dinner in Leeds is a premier networking event for private equity and venture capital professionals. Attendees, including industry practitioners and business owners, will enjoy a three-course meal, drinks, and entertainment over five hours. The event hosts BVCA Vision 2025, recognising top business leaders, and supports the 10,000 Interns Foundation. Part of the BVCA Invest Series, it offers a prime opportunity to connect and raise profiles in the industry. Rotherham Apprenticeship ‘Live’ 2025 12 March AESSEAL New York Stadium, Rotherham The Rotherham Apprenticeship ‘Live’ Event returns on 12th March 2025 at New York Stadium, from 4pm to 7:30pm. Employers can showcase their businesses and apprenticeship opportunities to young people, parents, carers, and educators. This event helps attract new talent and raise awareness of career pathways. Free exhibitor spaces are available but limited. For more details, contact abeer.asad@rotherham.gov.uk © stock.adobe.com/VideoFlow 2025 BIONOW - Yorkshire Bio-Partnering 8 April Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford Yorkshire Bio-Partnering is a key event for the Health and Life Sciences sector along the M62 corridor, fostering industry-academic collaboration. It aims to boost commercialisation of research, improve patient outcomes, and support business growth. The event features keynote speakers, case studies, funding insights, 1-2-1 partnering, and networking opportunities. Attendees can connect with innovative companies and technologies. Exhibitor and sponsorship packages are available. For details, contact mollie.nolan@bionow.co.uk.FEATURES Factory Automation Spotlight Ports Office Solutions Refrigeration Family Business Healthcare REGULARS Commercial Property Motoring Corporate Hospitality Watch out too for the latest news from across the region in every sector Next month in April 2025 - Deadline 26th March Visit us at www.blmforum.net where you’ll find the latest news as it breaks – and why not subscribe to our newsletters so you can have the latest news emailed to your inbox, in between printed issues?MARKETING OPPORTUNITY Business Link Magazine Group is currently seeking a focused driven and enthusiastic individual to join our busy team. This exciting role involves networking with a wide variety of diverse businesses, developing relationships and ensuring the highest possible level of advertisements are generated. You will explore new business opportunities and contact existing clients to promote the company’s portfolio of services. Duties will include: l Acquiring and developing a portfolio of local key accounts l Growing business from existing and new clients l Developing a high level of knowledge of your territory As an account executive you should also have the ability to work to deadline and have good IT skills and proven negotiation skills. In return for your commitment we offer a competitive salary and great career prospects. Please contact Angie Cooper on 01472 310310 WWW.BLMFORUM.NET/CAREERS y 2024 januar yorkshire & lincolnsh £3.50 hire’s leading business ma agazine VOLUME39ISSUE1 .blmgroup.co.ukwww Stem een wavegr sNavigating the UK’ Looking ahead essm the str V w INTERN NATION AL Micrrobiolog testing gyy and spotlight Constan iti Constant ackPaaaging t t ackPaaaging xpord exrtt spotlight innovati i on Imporrtt and T FEBRUA£2.95 ARY2024 Fashion Fantastic D Valentin Foundat British He ’ ti t BLM GROUP www.blmgroup.co.uk Gainsbo Glorious D h WWWLINCWWW.LINC OLNSHIRETOOLNSHIRETO ODAYNETODAY.NET LABELS • Plain / Printed Labels • Lasersheets • Fanfolded Labels • Thermal Transfer Ribbons • Barcode Labels RECRUITMENT WEDDINGSTO LET To receive a copy of the county’s most prestigious, full colour Wedding Guide, send a S.A.E. to: Lincolnshire Today Wedding Guide, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, North East Lincs DN31 2QE Alternatively visit www.lincolnshiretoday.net/weddings where you can view the whole guide online If you are getting married then this guide is your must have accessory. It’s full of advice, hints and tips from the county’s top wedding specialists and will provide you with inspiration for your big day. fortheBid The essentialgu d o Gr f LINC .WWW otb COLNSHIRETODAY WEDDINGS/ NET.Y Planning for your special day? Ground floor offices to let - prime location in Grimsby • Superb Location - Close to the ports of Grimsby & Immingham - Great motorway links - Close to the town centre • Secure off street parking • High speed internet availability • A range of affordable office sizes Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby DN31 2QE Tel: (01472) 310301 Email: s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk To advertise your services on the 01472 310310 www.blmforum.net Business Link 49 Next >