Welcome to our November edition. Explore our hand-picked features on innovative companies across the Architecture, Industrial, and Investment sectors.
This month, we’re excited to spotlight an exceptional lineup of businesses, showcasing their achievements and impact. We’ve selected four outstanding companies as our ‘Company of the Month’ honourees: Optimal Franchise, recognised as our Franchise Investment Company of the Month; Musqet, celebrated as our Business of the Month; Avera Planning & Design, honoured as our Boutique Architectural Consultancy of the Month; and USB Immigration Consultants, distinguished as our Immigration Law Firm of the Month. Each of these companies exemplifies excellence in their respective fields, and we’re thrilled to feature their stories in this issue!
feature an insightful article from Tony Warren, Global Health, Safety & Property Compliance Manager at Charles Taylor, explaining how inclusion, engagement and empowerment are a crucial part of this process.
On page 18, we have a full review of Hillhead 2024 – the biggest working quarrying exhibition on the planet. The biennial quarrying industry extravaganza once again delivered its trademark combination of exciting new product/ services launched, countless technological innovations, and more live plant/equipment demonstrations than ever.
Other show reviews: No-Dig Live 2024. Other topics covered: Warehouse & Logistics, Industrial, Health & Safety, Business, Trenchless Technology.
Establishing cultural maturity within an organisation is a frequent topic of conversation between top-level management. On page 14, we
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Consultancy of the Month 5
Avera is driven by a passion for designing spaces that evoke emotion and creativity, blending aesthetics with purpose to craft environments that surely inspire.
Industrial 6-10
Recontainers Ltd specialises in the buying, selling and cleaning of empty hazardous and non-hazardous chemical conditions.
Business of the Month 11 One area of business and financial innovation that is hitting the headlines again is Bitcoin, a digital asset that launched in 2009.
Company of the Month 12-13
One of the biggest benefits of a franchise is its existing brand reputation, as wellknown franchises often come with a loyal customer base which naturally increases its revenue and return.
Law Firm of the Month 16-17
USB Immigration Consultants helps navigate the complexities of sponsorship licences and supports companies to manage their SMS.
Hillhead Review 18-20
This year’s hotly anticipated event – held from 25-27 June at Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry, near Buxton, Derbyshire – proved to be a huge success on all counts.
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Warehouse & Logistics
Designing functional and aesthetic mezzanine offices
Designing a mezzanine floor office: Combining functionality and aesthetics
When it comes to mezzanine office design, it’s all about making the most of the space you have while creating an environment that’s both functional and inspiring. A well-designed mezzanine office should not only meet your practical needs but also reflect the brand's identity and boost employee morale. Here are some key design aspects to consider:
1. Strategic furniture placement
Getting furniture placement right is crucial in mezzanine offices, as space is often limited. Here’s how to make it work:
● Utilise Modular Furniture – Opt for modular furniture pieces that can be rearranged easily. This flexibility allows you to adapt your office mezzanine floor to changing needs, whether it’s for meetings, collaborative work, or quiet individual tasks.
● Prioritise Space-Saving Designs – Desks with builtin storage, wall-mounted shelves, and slim-profile chairs help maximise usable space without making the area feel cramped.
● Create Defined Zones – Use rugs, different flooring, or furniture arrangements to create distinct zones for different activities. This helps make the mezzanine office feel more organised and purposeful.
● Consider Multi-Functional Furniture – Think sofas with hidden storage or desks that can double as meeting tables. These pieces can provide the utility you need without cluttering the space.
2. Maximising lighting for productivity and mood
Lighting plays a critical role in defining the ambiance of your office mezzanine floor. Here’s how to get it right:
● Natural Light Is Your Best Friend – Whenever possible, incorporate natural light to make the mezzanine office feel open and airy. Large windows, skylights, or glass balustrades can help let in as much light as possible.
● Layer Your Lighting – Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting for a well-rounded lighting plan. Use overhead lights for general illumination, desk lamps for focused work, and wall sconces or LED strips for decorative touches.
● Use Light to Highlight Architecture – Use lighting to emphasise architectural features of your mezzanine office, such as exposed beams or stylish staircases. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also adds a layer of sophistication.
● Dimmable Options
– Choose dimmable lighting fixtures to easily adjust the brightness according to the time of day and the tasks at hand, enhancing comfort and reducing eye strain.
3. Incorporate stylish and functional decor
Decor sets the tone of the office mezzanine floor, making it feel welcoming and motivating. Here are a few decor tips:
● Go Vertical with Storage – Use the verticality of the mezzanine by installing tall shelving units or wallmounted storage. This not only saves floor space but also keeps the office organised.
● Accent Walls and Textures – Add a pop of colour or texture with an accent wall, stylish wallpaper, or even exposed brick. It brings personality to the mezzanine office without overwhelming the space.
● Greenery Adds Life – Incorporate plants to liven up the space, improve air quality, and reduce stress. Even small potted plants or hanging greenery can make a big difference.
● Personal Touches – Encourage employees to add personal items like photos, artwork, or desk decor. It makes the mezzanine office feel more personal and inviting.
4. Ensuring comfort and ergonomics
A mezzanine floor office needs to be as comfortable as it is stylish. Here’s how to achieve that balance:
● Ergonomic Furniture – Invest in ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks to promote good posture and reduce the risk of discomfort or injury.
● Soft Flooring Options – Carpeting or area rugs not only add warmth but also help reduce noise – a critical consideration in open mezzanine spaces.
● Acoustic Solutions – Mezzanine offices can sometimes be noisy due to their open nature. Use acoustic panels, curtains, or even strategically placed furniture to help dampen sound.
● Climate Control – Ensure the mezzanine office has proper ventilation and temperature control. Mezzanines can get warmer due to their elevated position, so consider ceiling fans or additional cooling options.
5. Creating a collaborative and private balance
While open spaces promote collaboration, there’s still a need for privacy in mezzanine offices. Balancing these
needs can be achieved through:
● Flexible Partitions – Use movable partitions or glass dividers to create semi-private areas without sacrificing the open feel of the mezzanine.
● Quiet Zones – Designate specific areas for quiet work or phone calls. This can be as simple as a nook with soundproofing or a small meeting pod.
● Collaborative Spaces – Design open areas with lounge seating or high-top tables for informal meetings and brainstorming sessions.
6. Smart Technology Integration
Modern mezzanine offices can benefit greatly from smart technology that enhances productivity and connectivity:
● Wireless Everything – Opt for wireless devices to reduce cable clutter. Wireless charging stations, Bluetooth-enabled equipment, and Wi-Fi printers help keep the space clean and efficient.
● Automated Lighting and Climate Control – Use smart systems to automate lighting and temperature settings, ensuring optimal comfort throughout the day.
● AV Setups for Presentations – If your mezzanine office hosts meetings or presentations, make sure it’s equipped with AV systems that are easy to use and don’t take up much space.
Final thoughts
Designing a mezzanine floor office is all about blending style with functionality. By carefully considering aspects like furniture placement, lighting, decor, and comfort, you can create an office mezzanine floor that not only meets your practical needs but also inspires creativity and productivity. With these tips, your mezzanine office can become a standout feature of your workspace, offering a dynamic and efficient environment that supports your business’s growth.
T 01905 757506
info@totalinteriorsdirect.co.uk
https://totalinteriorsdirect.co.uk
Boutique Architectural Consultancy of
Integrating contemporary design with elegance, creativity and sustainability
In this issue of Business & Industry Today, we are pleased to feature Avera Planning & Design as our Boutique Architectural
Avera is driven by a passion for designing spaces that evoke emotion and creativity, blending aesthetics with purpose to craft environments that surely inspire. Its flexible, friendly and professional approach ensures a seamless experience for homeowners, investors and developers alike. Avera’s team is dedicated to transforming a client's vision into a sophisticated, functional reality.
Consultancy of the
“Our expertise, combined with a personalised approach, ensures a smooth and hasslefree process, making clients’ vision a reality with precision and professionalism,” stated Gayatri Gupte, Owner.
Originally from Jaipur, India, Gayatri now resides in England, where the rich blend of heritage and modern architecture inspired her to launch Avera Planning & Design in Hertfordshire. With 15 years of experience, she specialises in planning permissions and interior design, creating tailored solutions to maximise property potential.
Gayatri’s boutique consultancy reflects a fusion of cultural roots and new opportunities, where incorporating sustainability into planning and design is a priority.
“Our designs not only meet the aesthetic and practical needs of today but also respect the future by addressing the changing needs of a
Month
growing family or changing work environments. It also means choosing materials that are renewable, recyclable and durable. We design spaces to maximise natural light and encourage our clients to incorporate smart technologies to reduce energy consumption,” said Gayatri.
Work environments are always evolving, and it’s essential that workspace design supports and enhances team performance. Well-planned spaces bring out the best in people, boosting creativity, productivity, and collaboration. Avera will soon be launching a special offer for workspace design, tailored for flexible and mindful work settings. Whether it’s a corporate office, an urban office space, or a home office, Avera’s design vision ensures the best in functionality and aesthetics.
Avera has a unique ability to ensure that all clients’ needs are integrated into the design process while maintaining its own unique architectural vision. Striking this unique balance is a meticulous and collaborative process that Avera excels in.
“From the initial consultation we try to understand clients’ requirements and lifestyles to align on key objectives. We conduct site-surveys and context analysis to make inform design decisions, and produce and refine designs based on client feedback while navigating through complexities of planning regulations and guidelines. We remain transparent with all clients throughout the process, and use technology such as CAD designs, 3D visuals and mock ups to give our clients a clear understanding of our proposed designs,” added Gayatri.
Using a flexible approach that is inspired by its vision to become a guiding light in soulful design, transforming design through innovative artistry, Avera combines possibilities, creativity and functionality together fostering a culture of artful living spaces.
From Planning Application to Architectural Design, and Interior Design, Avera work with many clients across a range of industries including surgery
designs for healthcare practices to office spaces for business where art, culture, and lifestyle converge.
Just like the world of art and design, Avera is continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of clients and the industry. We asked Gayatri what the future holds for the company.
“We are expanding our focus on eco-friendly and sustainable design practices, alongside forming strategic partnerships with other design and construction firms to deliver comprehensive services. I would also love to incorporate grassroots art from Rajasthan, integrating local paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts into urban design to create meaningful cultural impact.
Avera’s upcoming project in Los Angeles marks an exciting step towards international expansion, with a focus on projects in sunny climates, we are very excited to be setting a new direction for growth and creative evolution.”
Avera’s approach to creative design harmonises with its clients’ surroundings whilst pushing creative boundaries. Its ability to ensure that each application reflects the essence of the space required allows clients to be imaginative and to think outside the realm of possibilities.
In closing, we asked Gayatri, how she felt receiving our award.
“Thank you for choosing Avera Planning & Design as the Boutique Architectural Consultancy of the Month on your prestigious platform. I am truly humbled and honoured!”
M 07917 153660 gayatri@averaplanninganddesign.co.uk www.averaplanninganddesign.co.uk
Recontainers Ltd: We buy, sell and clean IBCs
Recontainers Ltd specialises in the buying, selling and cleaning of empty hazardous and non-hazardous chemical conditions.
Established in 1991, the family-run business exhibited at CHEMUK 2024 for the first time to meet prospective new customers.
Located in the Chemical Supply Chain Show Zone, the Lancashire-based company showcased its products and services to visitors from the logistics & transportation, packaging & labelling and storage & containers sectors.
Recontainers Ltd buy and sell reconditioned IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) in different specifications (grade, pallet, base and UN-certified and non-UN certified) and offers an IBC reconditioning (wash and return) service.
Health & Safety is a paramount concern for businesses needing to store and safely transport larger amounts of chemicals across the UK. IBC tanks have been a product of choice for many years due to the following benefits:
● Robust properties – IBCs are made of durable, galvanised
outer steel frames built to protect the inner polyethylene section.
● Space saving – IBCs are stackable due to its cubic shape
● Screw-cap lids –Allowing for easy filling, with a bottom outlet valve for emptying/decanting.
● Easy transportation
– IBCs can be lifted onto pallets using a FLT or pallet jack for seamless transportation (also quicker to load/off load than chemical drums)
● Waste efficiency – 1,000L of chemicals can be stored in larger IBC tanks, which is advantageous with regards to removing waste when discharging and draining the containers.
● Sustainable best practice – IBCs are fullyrecyclable containers, demonstrating excellent circular economy practice.
Gill WearDetect IoT: Next level predictive maintenance
WearDetect combines Gill’s market leading oil debris sensors with Gill’s new IoT data platform to provide seamless equipment oversight for confident asset management.
Gill’s WearDetect oil debris sensors reduce unplanned downtime by continuously monitoring ferrous wear debris in lubricating oil to give the earliest maintenance warnings.
This real-time condition monitoring, right in the heart of the equipment, is made all the more powerful when combined with the ability to collect, visualise and analyse that data using the Gill IoT Platform.
WearDetect IoT also allows alerts to be configured from multiple assets and multiple locations and sent straight to your PC, phone or other device, providing insight into gearbox and rotating equipment health, at your fingertips.
● Enhanced data collection and analysis – data assimilated from remote sensors in one simple-to-use platform.
● Remote monitoring and control –remote asset oversight enables timely maintenance.
● Cross-sector usage – IBCs can be used to store and transport a wide range of liquids, pastes or solids. In farming and agriculture, they can be used for water irrigation/collecting rain, fertiliser storage, with reconditioned ones ideal for storage solutions. On construction sites, they can store water for bulk cement mixing or dust suppression.
● Multi-purpose – IBCs can be
● Scalability and flexibility – additional sensors can be added to the platform enabling systems to meet changing requirements.
WearDetect IoT offers:
● Real-time condition monitoring –live updates, alerts & machine wear data insights direct to your device.
● Precision sensing – WearDetect employs advanced solid-state sensors (no moving parts) to detect both fine and coarse ferrous wear debris.
● Trending data for predictive analysis – the Gill IoT Platform allows data visualisation for clearer insights supporting informed decision making.
● Instant alerts – user specified alarms ensure users are aware of changes as soon as they occur.
● User-friendly intuitive interface – easy data access and setting configuration puts the user in control.
www.gillsc.com/weardetect-iot
used to store both UN chemicals (suitable for hazardous/corrosive chemicals) or non-UN (non-hazardous chemicals)
Recontainers Ltd has an online shop facility for trade customers, with bulk orders possible by request. Three of the best-sellers include the following:
There is a large choice of IBC containers on offer, from grading (1 or 2), UN-approved or non-UN approved, to metal, plastic or wood pallet base. For customers unsure which container is best suited for their needs, Recontainers Ltd can offer full advice via email or telephone.
For more information, contact the team at Recontainers Ltd today: T 01706 211112
Recontainers Ltd will return to CHEMUK 2025: 21-22 May 2025: NEC Birmingham.
Meritics Ltd: Revolution Powder Flow Analyser
Meritics Ltd is proud to offer Mercury Scientific’s Revolution Powder Flow Analyser in the UK. Designed to significantly enhance your operations across chemical industries, including paint, coatings, petrochemicals, and detergents. This advanced tool provides invaluable insights into your powder’s behaviour by measuring its ability to flow, consolidate, granulate, cake, pack, and fluidise through detailed assessments of power, time, and energy variances within a rotating drum.
The Revolution Powder Flow Analyser, can precisely quantify particle behaviour during crucial processes such as blending, tableting, mixing, and transportation. This enables you to optimise your manufacturing processes, ensuring consistent product quality & improved efficiency.
With its non-destructive testing capabilities, it offers high sensitivity and accuracy, allowing you to detect subtle variations in powder properties. This leads to improved quality control, reducing waste, and ensuring that your products meet stringent industry standards. Additionally, real-time monitoring
allows for immediate adjustments during production, further boosting operational efficiency. Using the Revolution, you benefit from technological advancements that support safer and more environmentally friendly analysis techniques. You can adhere to strict environmental and health regulations, making it an indispensable asset for your industry.
Let us help you improve your chemical processes to new levels of precision and reliability.
T 01582 704807 info@meritics.com www.meritics.com
Industrial sector hit by escalating distress
The latest Weil European Distress Index indicates a rise in corporate distress compared with the previous quarter. Drawing on data from over 3,750 listed corporations and financial market indicators, the Index reveals a noticeable disparity in performance across sectors and countries measured.
Distress among European Industrials spiked over the last quarter, rising from fourth to the second most distressed sector. Investment pressures are especially acute for industrial companies, playing a major role in the rise in distress. An environment of climbing capital costs and a reduction in new project commitments echoes the broader slowdown in global demand. Mounting pressure on manufacturers to meet net zero targets, along with a recent succession of high-profile insolvencies and job cuts over recent weeks, particularly in Germany and the
UK, suggest the outlook may further deteriorate. Geopolitical dynamics are also exacerbating the situation, with persistently high energy prices, especially impacting German industry, and a reduction in Chinese demand for manufactured goods. These factors are not only cyclical but increasingly structural, posing longer-term challenges to the sector's recovery.
Distress has eased slightly for the Real Estate sector compared to the previous quarter and year, although it remains the most distressed sector due to ongoing challenges. While improvements in investment and profitability have contributed to this positive trend, heavily leveraged companies still face challenges in refinancing amid a highrate environment.
The Healthcare sector, now the third most distressed, faces ongoing challenges with cash flow and investment sentiment weighing down on overall performance.
Retail distress has risen both quarterly & yearly, as declining household finances have reduced consumer spending and company profits. Liquidity pressures, worsened by rising borrowing costs, add to the sector’s uncertain outlook.
www.weil.com
Jernbro signs acquisition of Veltec
Jernbro, one of Sweden’s leading providers of industrial maintenance and projects, announced it has agreed to sign a deal to acquire Veltec, a renowned industrial services leader with significant operations in Norway and Denmark. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Jernbro’s mission to enhance its capabilities and expand its reach across Scandinavia.
The acquisition signifies a strategic step forward for both Jernbro and Veltec, ensuring that their customers will benefit from a broader range of services, increased reliability, and innovative solutions that meet the demands of modern industrial operations.
combined expertise of both companies to offer unparalleled service quality and operational efficiency.”
Veltec, a significant player in the region with over 300 skilled staff and more than 50 years of experience across various industrial sectors, brings a wealth of knowledge and specialist capabilities to Jernbro. As a service leader in Scandinavia, Veltec’s established presence and proven track record in Norway and Denmark will complement and strengthen Jernbro’s service delivery and customer offering.
Daniel Backman (right), CEO of Jernbro, said, “This acquisition represents a significant step in our growth strategy. By joining forces with Veltec, we are better equipped to meet the evolving needs of our customers across Scandinavia. We are committed to bringing the
Gert Nielsen (left), CEO of Veltec, said, “Joining forces with Jernbro presents a unique opportunity to strengthen our services and expand our market reach. Together, we are well-positioned to provide our customers throughout the region with superior industrial services that drive efficiency, safety, and sustainability.”
https://jernbro.com/en https://veltec.com
Electric Materials, copper specialist, manufacturer of commutators and bespoke copper busbar systems
We are a copper specialist dedicated to crafting tailor-made commutators, profiles and busbar products that are dedicated to switchgear and control panels.
Our busbars are not mere ‘off-the-shelf’ stock options. We offer the flexibility to custom design and build busbars to your exact specifications, in any shape/alloy/plating and configuration you need.
Visit our website www.elecmat.com
Contact +44 (0)7387 140988
Unified commerce, borderless payments
We are delighted to showcase Musqet as our Business of the Month
As we approach the festive period, eCommerce platforms have naturally seen a sharp increase in online sales. While marketing preparation is key in the run up to Christmas, assessing marketplace fees and transaction costs is fast becoming a higher priority for many retailers. Innovation is also high on the agenda as businesses look to differentiate from the competition.
One area of business and financial innovation that is hitting the headlines again is Bitcoin, a digital asset that launched in 2009. Though the UK has traditionally lagged behind the Bitcoin adoption curve, this is all set to change, as a new wave of consumers seek ways to save and spend their Bitcoin and some employees are now asking to be paid in full or part Bitcoin for their work.
Businesses need to ready for the Bitcoin revolution or risk being left behind. Musqet is UK-based and is the go-to company for future-proofed Bitcoin payments and associated software.
Spotlight on Musqet: Boom in Bitcoin adoption
Musqet is a London-based payments company providing card present, electronic point of sale (ePOS) and online payments across the UK and Europe. Established by founder and CEO, David Parkinson, the company focuses heavily on Bitcoin payments to ensure businesses can prepare for Bitcoin adoption globally and transition to accepting Bitcoin alongside traditional methods of payment.
by the merchant and only the merchant.
“We are, to our knowledge, the only business the delivers a unified payments experience covering Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay and self-custodial Bitcoin Lightning transactions. Bitcoin engineering is very, very hard and we are fortunate to have some of the best Bitcoin and Lightning engineers on the planet in the team.”
and ambition to bring Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network to the mainstream market. A recent glowing review of Musqet in a Forbes online article covering the benefits to a business of accepting Bitcoin payments also underline this.
Beat the Autumn Budget
The Autumn Budget has certainly raised a few eyebrows in the FinTech sector. Though improving digital adoption in the public services and SMEs are still prioritised, heavy tax rises on businesses will have an immediate impact. The UK still looks set to become the world’s next Silicon Valley but this may be determined by Government plans for AI opportunities and The Industrial Strategy details.
Forbes endorsement
We caught up with CEO David Parkinson for more insights into Bitcoin adoption, “Bitcoin is a peer-to-peer network meaning that there are no centralised third parties involved in a transaction, unlike with the traditional card payment network. A big challenge of using Bitcoin for payments is that it can only process around 7 transactions per second versus Visa which is around 25,000 TPS. The Bitcoin Lightning Network is known as a ‘Layer 2’ network and gives a theoretical throughput of 40 million transactions per second. This means that low value transactions can now settle instantly between the customer and the merchant and with the Musqet self-custodial solution there is no counterparty risk to the transaction – in other words, funds received belong to and are accessible
Musqet has successfully raised £750,000 funding from venture capital firm Axiom in collaboration with a select group of private individuals and angel investors. This funding round will support Musqet’s continued growth
Despite these challenges, Musqet has strategically positioned itself for the upcoming mainstream Bitcoin adoption with a suite of world-class merchant payment services for any type of business.
“We have solutions that are scalable and customisable for any business. Right now, we are focusing on online eCommerce platforms and helping businesses reduce their marketplace fees and transaction costs. Alongside this we have a world class ePOS capability that streamlines Hospitality, Food and Beverage business operations which, when combined with our frictionless payment capability gives a compelling proposition. Alongside our payments capability we recently partnered with Cartwright, an employee benefits business who will be offering our ‘Bitcoin payroll’ product that lets businesses pay their staff in Bitcoin directly into the staff Lightning wallet. In the UK, there are no tax advantages to this but it carries excellent employee retention as an incentivisation tool and removes all the friction from the end-to-end experience. People can wake up on payday and see that their company has paid them a bonus in Bitcoin.
“We also recently launched our Seed funding round which will give us a platform for continued growth and expansion across Europe. The next natural market for us to launch into is likely MENA as they have a very favourable regulatory environment for Bitcoin focused businesses.”
To reduce marketplace fees and transaction costs on eCommerce platforms today, contact Musqet today at the website below: https://musqet.tech
On a mission to reshape the landscape of franchise investment
In this issue of Business & Industry Today, we are pleased to feature Optimal Franchise as our Franchise Investment
Company of the Month
Investing in franchises can be a great way for those interested in entrepreneurship who want a bit of a safety net. However, there are a number of factors to consider before making any investments. One of the biggest benefits of a franchise is its existing brand reputation, as well-known franchises often come with a loyal customer base which naturally increases its revenue and return.
Another major factor to consider is choosing a proven business model as this also lowers the risk of anything going wrong. Furthermore, Franchises usually come with standardised procedures, recipes, or even service guidelines, which streamline operations and improve efficiency.
It can get quite confusing when it comes to the finer details, which is why one of the best things you can do as a potential investor is to seek support and guidance from a company who can help you make the right decisions. The franchise sector contributes over £17 billion to the UK economy, so, providing a stable and robust investment environment is key.
Optimal Franchise was founded with a vision to
transform franchise investment, bringing secure, high-yield opportunities to investors. Specialising in identifying and investing in successful franchise businesses, its approach is built on leveraging the high success rates and resilience of well-established franchise models. With a management team deeply experienced in the franchise industry, Optimal Franchise is expertly positioned to capitalise on the growth potential of this market.
“Our CEO, after years working with various investment structures, recognised a gap: investors wanted access to the potential of the franchise sector without the challenges of direct ownership. This insight inspired the creation of Optimal Franchise, where we invest in proven, successful franchises across diverse sectors. My role is to guide investors through our offerings, ensuring they understand our secure and innovative approach, designed to deliver strong returns with minimal risk.”
By focusing on franchise optimisation, the company offers investors access to high-yield, stable returns without day-to-day involvement. This model lets investors benefit from franchise growth potential while Optimal Franchise manage
the operational complexities. We asked Nick what are the key factors that make a business a strong candidate for franchising.
“A business that is well-suited for franchising typically has a proven model, strong brand reputation, and a steady customer base. Other key factors include efficient operations, scalability, and the ability to provide consistent support to franchisees. It’s essential that the franchise model demonstrates profitability and has high demand, ensuring stability for both franchisees and investors. So, if you’re looking for an innovative investment opportunity which offers a fixed interest rate, Optimal Franchise is the partner you’ve been searching for.
“Our approach stands out through a unique blend of security, diversification, and consistent returns. We believe in the value of having a strong team, with deep expertise in franchise operations, investment structures, and market analysis. We’re committed to only investing in high-performing franchises across varied sectors, building a diversified portfolio that balances risk and reward. Our 8% fixed annual return is backed by secure
Franchise Investment Company of the Month
assets and a strategy that prioritises investor peace of mind, placing us among the most innovative in franchise investment,” added Nick.
Optimal Franchise harness the power of globally recognised brands and institutions that demonstrate resilience and profitability no matter the economic climate today. Partnering with established franchises across sectors such as healthcare, childcare, food and beverage, retail, and automotive, these sectors bring both stability and growth potential.
“By diversifying across industries, we protect investor capital against sector-specific downturns, and our selection process ensures only the most resilient franchises are included, making them ideal for our investment model,” said Nick. Integrity, transparency, and a long-term vision are the core principles that drive Optimal Franchise. Motivated by an ethos that is rooted in ethical investment practices, thorough due diligence, and a strong focus on sustainability, Optimal Franchise prioritise building solid, trustworthy relationships with its investors, understanding that its own success is directly tied to theirs.
By choosing to work with Optimal Franchise, investors will have peace of mind that their investment is highly secure and safe. The company is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in its investment choices, and that’s why it only invests in franchises that are members of the British Franchise Association (BFA), ensuring adherence
to best practices in ethical franchising. This commitment provides investors with an added layer of security and trust, leaving Optimal Franchise to focus on delivering outstanding returns.
What’s more, by choosing Optimal Franchise investors will benefit from its 8% fixed rate annual return, which is paid out semi-annually for the first six months and quarterly thereafter. This combination of stability and strong returns allows investors to enjoy regular income with the flexibility to adjust their plans at the end of the investment term.
“Success for our franchise clients is measured by revenue growth, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. What makes our model unique, however, is our commitment to a fixed 8% annual return for investors. Our innovative approach allows investors to enjoy this return without being affected by the direct ups and downs of individual franchise performance. For example, if a franchisee achieves a 20% revenue increase in their first year, this validates our strategy and demonstrates the strength of our selection process. Regular reviews and metrics tracking keep each franchise on course, ensuring
that our investors continue to receive their fixed returns and benefit from our performance management,” stated Nick.
Optimal Franchise use marketing strategies that focus on digital engagement, local SEO, and community involvement. By tailoring these efforts to local demographics, ensures franchises connect with their target audience effectively. This approach strengthens brand loyalty and awareness, and by engaging franchisees in community-focused initiatives, Optimal Franchise help them to build a positive local presence that resonates with customers.
Furthermore, Optimal Franchise also offer training across all core areas, including operations, marketing, and customer service.
“We provide ongoing support through check-ins, performance reviews, and access to a dedicated support team. This support structure ensures franchisees are well-prepared for long-term success, helping them manage their businesses effectively while maintaining high standards,” added Nick.
Looking ahead, we asked Nick what trends they are currently seeing in the franchise industry, and how do they see these evolving.
“Currently, we’re seeing a trend towards sustainable, socially responsible franchises, as consumers increasingly support brands that align with their values. Digital transformation is also reshaping franchise operations. These trends highlight the importance of adaptability in franchise models, and we believe they will continue to shape the industry, creating new opportunities for forward-thinking franchises.”
To learn more about Optimal Franchise and how it can help you achieve your financial goals, see below:
T 0800 208 8813
info@optimalfranchise.com
https://optimalfranchise.com
Engagement and empowerment are vital for cultural maturity in Health & Safety
Many organisations aspire to cultural maturity, but there are no shortcuts to achieving it – nowhere more so than the critical sphere of health and safety. Tony Warren (pictured below), Global Health, Safety & Property Compliance Manager at Charles Taylor, explains how inclusion, engagement and empowerment are a crucial part of the process
Establishing cultural maturity within an organisation is a frequent topic of conversation between top-level management. It’s achieved through a process of evolution and progression to more developed states of learning, insight and understanding that support strategic goals. It effects lasting change, and a legacy of best practice embedded in every aspect of working life.
Cultural maturity manifests in many aspects of operations, but seeing it come to fruition in the critical realm of health and safety is the clearest sign of its arrival: a truly mature organisational culture values the wellbeing and safety of its colleagues.
Health and safety leaders are often frustrated by the obstacles that slow the journey to this destination. We’ve all heard the tired trope about health and safety being an administrative drag on day-to-day business. It’s still a commonly held view in the working environment. In reality, the opposite is true: health and safety not only safeguards people, but also helps to improve efficiency, reputation and profitability. The principles that foster a strong safety culture are the same that promote excellence in all areas of an organisation.
There are plenty of compelling points to make the case for a health and safety culture, but the challenge for senior leadership is achieving buy-in at every level of an organisation. It cannot be achieved by force and health and safety by diktat is counterproductive. The key to unlocking it can be summed up in three words: inclusion, engagement, empowerment.
A comprehensive suite of health and safety guidance is an essential company-wide resource, but documents and videos alone are not enough for cultural maturity to take root. It needs to be supported by consistent communication and collaboration, engaging colleagues in safety discussions and actively seeking input from all levels of the workforce. All health and safety education and training should be viewed through that lens.
It’s an approach which is neatly encapsulated by some well-known words attributed to Confucius, “Tell me and I will forget, show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand.”
Frontline Managers, Team Leaders and Supervisors are a fulcrum in that process. Interacting with the workforce on a daily basis, they are an instrumental voice at the beating heart of a business, uniquely positioned to influence behaviours, attitudes, and practices.
While policies may be developed at the top, they are implemented and lived out in the day-to-day activities of the organisation. True transformation in health and safety maturity occurs at the operational level. If frontline management are not fully engaged and committed to promoting safety, the broader initiatives set by upper management are likely to falter.
Frontline management are invariably more engaged and responsive when they gain a fuller appreciation of their
own value and agency within a company’s strategic vision. They have an intimate understanding of the specific hazards and risks associated with the tasks their teams perform and are therefore best placed to ensure that effective, robust, just and commercially aware processes are implemented. Regular discussions with upper management and tailored training modules are often an effective way to help frontline management to recognise that fact, appreciate what they have to offer and understand how pivotal they can be. They see their health and safety remit in a new light – not as a set of secondary or compliance-driven responsibilities, but as integral to both their and the company’s success.
Providing access to continuous learning fosters that self-knowledge and promotes an environment of vigilance and improvement. Ongoing education and training are critical to evolving Health and Safety culture, keeping employees updated on the latest safety protocols, legislation changes, and risk management strategies. It’s important to remember that one size won’t fit all, and a mix of formats usually works best: interactive e-learning modules, gamification of training content, real-life scenario simulations, virtual reality experiences that allow for immersive risk identification and response practice, as well as traditional in-person delivery of practical application of safety principles in daily operations.
Energised by a greater understanding of their critical role in cultural maturity, Managers, Team Leaders and Supervisors are empowered to take ownership of health and safety within their teams and departments. Having bought into the concept of safety culture, they cultivate that culture and ensure that colleagues are equipped with the knowledge, resources, and mindset to work safely. They become visible, proactive, and genuinely
engaged in health and safety, driving the message that safety is an indivisible part of the workplace and ensuring it becomes second nature to every team member.
When frontline leaders and managers understand the value of their knowledge and input, they encourage colleagues to think the same way about their own role. With open communication channels and an environment that acknowledges safe behaviours and encourages the sharing of information in supporting continual improvement, colleagues are comfortable reporting hazards and near-misses without fear of retribution. Teams see safety and risk data reporting as a tool for collective development rather than a lever to enforce rules, fostering trust.
A feeling of inclusion and personal agency in the process is a critical dynamic. When employees actively participate, they feel valued and take ownership of safety outcomes. By contributing to risk assessments, safety meetings, and decision-making, employees bring diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, strengthening the effectiveness of health and safety practices. This participatory approach within a collaborative environment nurtures a sense of shared responsibility and reinforces the principle that safety is everyone's business.
Inclusion and participation also empower colleagues to feel more accountable for their own safety and the safety of others, which is a hallmark of a mature safety culture. As a result, corporate safety policies are translated into practical, on-the-ground actions.
For senior management, the ultimate objective is an organisation in which health and safety leadership is present at every level. When that goal is achieved, cultural maturity has truly arrived.
www.charlestaylor.com/en
Editor Recommends
Green leaders make Nottinghamshire a ‘Nature Hub’
Green business and council leaders announced they are steering the charge to make Nottinghamshire a hub for businesses that aim to restore nature.
Nottingham-based Dr Mike Burgass, Director of Biodiversify, and Councillor Emma Oldham revealed they are looking to establish a Notts Nature Hub this summer, hoping to bring together leaders across the county to chart a path forward for innovation and investment around Nature.
The Notts Nature Hub is intended to be the starting point
Sustainability: Grundfos joins top 1% of companies
Grundfos, a global leader in advanced pump solutions and water technology, today announced that it has achieved Platinum medal rating from EcoVadis. This recognition places Grundfos in the top 1% of companies rated worldwide, showcasing its unwavering commitment to sustainable business practices.
EcoVadis is one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of business sustainability ratings, assessing more than 130,000 companies’ actions and practices on their corporate and social responsibility. Using its international standards, EcoVadis has evaluated Grundfos across four key areas: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement to award the business a Platinum medal rating.
Since the last assessment (Gold medal rating), Grundfos has implemented additional measures and policies to strengthen social and environmental responsibility across the value chain. At the same time, the company has made significant progress towards both water & climate ambitions, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement.
“We are very proud of the Platinum rating, which I would like to dedicate to our hard working and dedicated colleagues worldwide. It encourages us to keep pushing ourselves to enhance our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices that include progressing towards net zero by 2050, fostering a fair, inclusive, and safe working environment, enforcing strong ethical business standards, and ensuring sustainable procurement across our entire value chain,” said Louise Koch, Senior Director, Group Head of Sustainability, Grundfos. www.grundfos.com
for putting Nottinghamshire at the beating heart of the fast-growing nature recovery sector. Hosted at the Dryden Enterprise Center, part of Nottingham Trent University, the idea is two-fold. Initially to create a space for Nottingham-based remote environmentalists to work, ideate and share knowledge. The bigger vision is for Nottinghamshire to lead the UK and the rest of the world in recovering nature.
The hub will bring together businesses, policymakers, academics and charities to collectively agree on a way forward to draw on the existing talent pool and
opportunities in the area and promote the region as a hub for further investment and talent.
Famously home to Sherwood Forest, the county currently holds important environmental NGOs including the Royal Society for Wildlife Trusts and Canal and Rivers Trust, with The Woodland Trust within touching distance in Grantham.
Nottinghamshire is also the home for conservation consultancy, Biodiversify, which is based within Nottingham Trent University and works with global brands including Primark and Tetra Pak to curb biodiversity loss.
According to the firm, there is a great opportunity for Nottinghamshire to follow the likes of Cambridge in creating a hub for businesses and NGOs with the same goal: to restore nature.
https://biodiversify.com
ABB & Typhoon HIL create DriveLab
ABB has partnered with Typhoon HIL to create the DriveLab ACS880 HIL Compatible digital twin. This collaboration between leading industry players will empower a wide range of industrial customers with a realistic, scalable, and easy to use real-time simulation platform.
DriveLab ACS880 is the next generation of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation technology. It is specifically tailored and geared towards simplifying the integration of ABB variable speed drives (VSD) systems. It will enable customers to quickly test and validate the system via a test automation capability which is a key component of top-tier customer support.
HIL simulation is used to validate both component and system-level behaviour of the drives and drive systems in real-world applications ranging from compressors, conveyers, and cranes to large scale energy storage,
microgrids and more. The DriveLab ACS880 serves as a digital twin, integrating the control hardware, firmware, and software of the ACS880 drives with Typhoon HIL’s high-fidelity digital models. These digital models virtually represent the ACS880 drive’s hardware, including its connected components, such as the grid, motors, filters, batteries, protection devices, and the electro-mechanical elements.
“Collaboration with partners such as Typhoon HIL is delivering innovation that directly benefits customers across different industries,” said Chris Poynter, President of ABB System Drives. “The HIL solution allows us to work with our customers to help them shorten their testing and validation cycle with improved speed, efficiency and quality of the process.”
www.abb.com www.typhoon-hil.com
Groundwork partners with ESS Expo to support green careers
Groundwork, a national charity that mobilises practical action on poverty and the environment across the UK, has announced its new partnership with Environmental Services & Solutions Expo (ESS), the leading event for the environmental services industry.
Together, they focused on addressing the growing skills shortage in green jobs and encouraging more young people to pursue careers that protect the planet.
Through events and outreach initiatives this year, ESS and Groundwork shone a spotlight on the critical need for skills development in areas like waste and recycling, water, renewable energy, environmental consulting, and more. Groundwork had an active presence at ESS Expo 2024 on 11-12 September this year at the NEC Birmingham, including speaking sessions on nurturing
green talent and overcoming employment barriers.
As part of this year’s event, Groundwork experts headlined its ESS 2040: Green Skills webinar this April focused on sustainability education and readying the next generation of green workers. The charity also hosted an informational stand at ESS Expo, dedicated to training programmes, apprenticeships, and entry-level openings.
More details about the ESS-Groundwork partnership were released in the following months. Environmental organisations, universities, employers, recruiters, and all those committed to a sustainable future are encouraged to get involved.
www.groundwork.org.uk
Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our November issue of Sustainability Today! Explore our hand-picked features on innovative companies across the Pump Solutions, Environmental Monitoring, and Recycling & Waste Management sectors.
We’re delighted to feature Atlantic Pumps as our Leading Pump Advisor of the Month on page 5. In this focus piece we dive into the company’s three main areas of support: Consultancy, Equipment Services, and Water Management Quality, as well as explore EnviroHub – a control system by Atlantic Pumps designed for the quarrying and construction industries to monitor, treat, and report on onsite water quality.
new hurdles emerging, Cenex Expo cemented itself as the intersection where academia, government, technical engineering, and innovation meet for influential dialogue to drive the future of mobility.
On page 6, we have a full review of the Cenex Expo, held at UTAC Millbrook from 4-5 September 2024. With markets maturing and
Be sure to check out the ‘Editor Recommends’ section where we showcase sustainable companies that have caught our eye with their innovative solutions and practices, helping to power our planet towards a more environmentally friendly future.
Other show reviews: Hillhead 2024. Other topics covered: Renewable Energy, Greenbuild, Sustainable Agriculture, Water Management.
Don’t forget to send us your latest Business, Industry and Sustainable news and updates and email us at: info@sustainabilitytoday.co.uk
Contacts
SUS Sales Manager, Jess Machin – 0121 550 7510 jessmachin@sustainabilitytoday.co.uk
Production Manager, Robert Sharp – production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack
The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 7510.
SUSTAINABILITY TOD AY
Leading Pump Advisor of the Month V
Atlantic Pumps was founded on the belief that customers deserve an exceptional experience
Cenex Expo Review VI-VII
Held at UTAC Millbrook from 4-5 September 2024, Cenex Expo is the esteemed technology showcase and networking event.
Water Management VIII-IX
Howard Marles, CEO of Curio Group, reports on a solution to tackling the problem of micropollutants underway in Severn Trent.
Recycling & Waste Management X-XI
Kiverco plants last longer than any others in the industry, embodying true sustainability.
Hillhead Review XIII-XVI
Attracting more than 19,500 trade visitors and featuring an impressive 598 exhibitors across three show days, Hillhead 2024 – the biggest working quarrying exhibition on the planet –once again raised the ante.
Renewable Energy XVIII
With nearly 20 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, Go Geothermal is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of heat pumps and other renewable energy products such as underfloor heating and solar panels.
Sustainability Today is sponsored by
Atlantic Pumps – see them on page V
Environmental Monitoring
A match made in heaven
In a significant development, Tunley Environmental, a distinguished sustainability consultancy, and One Tribe, a leading carbon offset provider, have forged a thriving partnership aimed at bolstering sustainable business practices and combating climate change.
In early 2023, Tunley Environmental embarked on a mission to procure the finest supplier of carbon offset credits to neutralise their carbon footprint. As a net-zero organisation dedicated to assisting global companies in reducing their carbon footprint, it was imperative for Tunley Environmental to secure the most valid and ethical carbon offsets available. After meticulous due diligence across numerous providers, Tunley chose to procure credits from One Tribe, igniting an unforeseen and flourishing relationship.
What began as a simple supplier relationship has blossomed into a dynamic and mutually beneficial
partnership. One Tribe, recognising Tunley’s expertise, initiated collaboration to engage Tunley Environmental in the assessment of their clients’ carbon footprint before offset procurement. This collaboration has transformed into a robust alliance, enabling both entities to assess and offset the carbon footprints of organisations worldwide. Together, Tunley and One Tribe stand stronger, united in their commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
As both organisations look ahead, the next 12 months hold the promise of continued growth and collaboration. The shared vision includes deploying technology to streamline the process for clients to conduct baseline emissions assessments and procure offsets, thereby enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in advancing sustainable initiatives.
www.tunley-environmental.com
Launch of single-use soil sampler
QED Environmental Systems, Inc, a leading manufacturer of innovative environmental products and subsidiary of Graco Inc, has launched the new single-use Combo Core soil sampler for field preservation VOC analysis.
The Combo Core system is set to succeed the popular Terra Core® soil sampling tool, specifically designed for collecting core samples for VOC analysis using field preservation.
offering a number of additional benefits to the end user. In an industryfirst development, the Combo Core soil sampler can collect both 5- and 10-gram samples from a single tool, eliminating the need to carry multiple sampler sizes. To switch between the two, sampling technicians need only lift and twist the centre plunger.
General election should be a 'wake up call' for next government
Business energy users are calling on the next UK government to reduce red tape and support business investment in net zero and sustainability measures, according to the latest of the Business Energy Tracker from npower Business Solutions (nBS).
The 2024 report, which monitors the impact of the energy market and policy decisions on businesses' attitudes to energy, risk and investment planning, consulted with large energy users to find out what they would like to see from the next UK government, following the General Election on 4 July 2024.
It revealed that the top ask for 43% of businesses is an increase in support to manage energy demand, such as grants or tax breaks for installing measures including energy efficiency, on-site generation and energy management platforms.
Moulded from virgin-grade polypropylene, the Combo Core™ is the first tool from QED that carries the PFASfree designation, making it ideal for the collection of soil core samples for PFAS analysis under EPA Method 537M. The system is also suitable for the collection of VOCs and SVOCs under EPA Method 8260 and EPA Method 8270 respectively.
The new sampler retains the hardy design and easyto-use T-shaped handle of the original, while also
The Combo Core soil sampler has been purposely designed to help make transfer quicker and easier, with the barrel easily fitting into standard 20ml and 40ml vials in to help reduce spillage.
In order to reduce the environmental impact of the single-use system, all Combo Core systems are manufactured with Bio-Tec EcoPure®, a unique biodegradable additive.
Contact
www.qedenv.com/products/combo-core-soil-sampler
This was followed by calls to reduce red tape, particularly for renewables schemes, and to simplify the number of non-commodity costs that are included on energy invoices, These include standing charges and other levies and have seen a significant increase in recent years. The cost of delivering net zero also remains a key concern for 95% of the businesses consulted by nBS.
To download a copy of the 2024 Business Energy Tracker, please visit: https://npowerbusinesssolutions.com/ businessconfidence2024
Tunley Environmental empowers clients to achieve remarkable sustainability results
Tunley Environmental, a leading provider of sustainability consulting services with a full team of qualified scientists with PhD-level expertise, has published the remarkable impact of its expertise on the sustainability initiatives of its clients.
Recent research conducted by the company has shed light on the significant strides made by businesses in enhancing brand reputation, meeting customer demands, and contributing to environmental responsibility.
Led by Chartered Engineer turned Sustainability CEO, Dr William Beer, the company has helped hundreds of clients including global conglomerates to reduce their carbon emissions. Dr Beer stated, "Our comprehensive reports have played a pivotal role in
guiding businesses toward sustainable practices. The findings from our research affirm the effectiveness of our approach in empowering clients to make informed decisions that positively impact their carbon footprint."
Key findings from the research reveal that over 87% of clients pursued sustainability initiatives to enhance brand reputation, with a further 79% aiming to meet customer demands and 83% striving to contribute to environmental responsibility. Notably, half of the clients adopted renewable energy following Tunley's guidance, and 67% implemented waste reduction strategies after receiving the company's report. Additionally, a third of clients switched their fleet
vehicles for electric vehicles (EVs), and 38% implemented alternative materials to reduce product emissions.
The headline finding was that 100% of clients stated they would recommend Tunley’s services to others. The research further highlights that 88% of clients found that working with Tunley completely took the stress out of calculating emissions, and over two-thirds of researched clients agree that working with Tunley helped them to market their product as ‘sustainable’. The findings also underscore a high level of satisfaction, with a 96% overall satisfaction rate across all of Tunley’s carbon services.
www.tunley-environmental.com
Leading Pump Advisor of the
Keeping abrasive fluids moving
In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to feature Atlantic Pumps as our Leading Pump Advisor of the Month
Atlantic Pumps was founded on the belief that customers deserve an exceptional experience. Committed to providing practical and effective solutions for their clients’ pumping needs, Atlantic Pumps recognises the significant disruptions and costs associated with downtime, as well as its impact on customer service.
With a fast, efficient, and experienced team, Atlantic Pumps offers immediate support and understands the unique challenges faced by clients on site. They prioritise clear and concise communication of their solutions, fostering trust and confidence in their partnerships.
From initial dewatering to every step of aggregate processing and discharge, Atlantic Pumps understands the crucial role that the movement of abrasive fluids plays in site performance. As the only UK pump manufacturer dedicated exclusively to this industry, Atlantic Pumps maintains a steadfast focus on the end-to-end management of quarry water and abrasive fluids within industrial processes.
Atlantic Pumps is consistently increasing its flexibility whether this be through CAD drawings, manufacturing facilities, or by combining the latest technologies with the best practices across many different industries.
are proud to offer such an exceptional customer service and response rates to our customers,” stated Samantha Damon, Senior Marketing Manager.
Founded in 2012 by Andrew Smith, Nathan Rowles, and Bill Noakes, the company has quickly risen to prominence over its 12 years in operation. The Atlantic Pumps Manufacturing and Research Hub, located in Chesterfield –the heart of industrial England – plays a pivotal role in this success. This remarkable Hub positions the company at the forefront of pump innovation and fluid management solutions, consistently delivering reliable equipment for mines, quarries, and heavy industries worldwide.
Atlantic Pumps offers support in three key areas: t Consultancy – Expert assessment and guidance on managing abrasive fluids in your processes. t Equipment Services – Supply, installation, and servicing of pumps and parts, including rapid breakdown support. t Water Quality Management –Monitoring, treatment, and reporting to ensure compliance.
These services cater to various industries, including mining, quarrying, recycling, heavy industry, the water sector, and energy from waste (AD/Biogas).
production facility through to continued product development in our EnviroHub product range.”
EnviroHub is a control system designed for the quarrying and construction industries to monitor, treat, and report on on-site water quality. With the requirement for proof of safe water disposal and routine checks by the Environment Agency, EnviroHub's robust monitoring system is essential.
EnviroHub oversees all aspects of water usage and disposal, including dewatering excess water from quarries and construction sites, lagoon and pond dewatering, and managing concrete washout. It also monitors flow rates and solids in wash plants, manages process plant effluent treatment, and facilitates sludge thickening and solidification.
Essentially, EnviroHub tracks water quality from arrival to disposal, addressing turbidity, pH levels, and hydrocarbons. It provides complete data records, alerts, and automatic email notifications for any warnings such as alert sites if water is unsafe for disposal. It also gives clients peace of mind, whether they are on-site or off that they are not at risk of being in breach of their environmental permits.
“Our products and services deliver massive ‘whole life’ benefits. At our manufacturing hub, we hold extensive stock of pumps and parts, enabling rapid despatch that results in less downtime and much better operator experience for our customers. We
Atlantic Pumps takes pride in its sustainability profile and their approach to environmental, social and governance (ESG) ensures they do the right thing for their customers. To gain insight into their efforts, we spoke with Samantha about the specific sustainability initiatives the company has implemented to minimise its environmental impact.
“One of the main things we have done is create an energy calculator which helps to demonstrate the savings clients can make by moving from diesel pumps to electric submersible. This demonstrates the huge economic benefits which of course also feeds through to significant environmental benefits. We have also used our pump technology to massively reduce tanker movements in the wastewater sector. We are always looking to improve our impact on environmental sustainability and innovation and also have a range of goals ranging from investing in solar for our main
If you’re interested in working with Atlantic Pumps, please get in contact below.
T 01246 284420
E hello@atlantic-pumps.com
W https://atlanticpumps.co.uk
Cenex Expo unites innovation leaders on the road to Net Zero and Future Mobility
Held at UTAC Millbrook from 4-5 September 2024, the esteemed technology showcase and networking event, which unified the legacy of Cenex-LCV and Cenex-CAM, brought together almost 4,500 attendees and over 200 exhibitors.
With markets maturing and new hurdles emerging, Cenex Expo cemented itself as the intersection where academia, government, technical engineering, and innovation meet for influential dialogue to drive the future of mobility.
As the new Government plots its course to Net Zero, Cenex Expo was inaugurated by Lilian Greenwood MP, Minister for the Future of Roads, on 4 September. Here, the stage was set for two days of thought-provoking discussions, focusing on supply chain, technology, market development priorities, and groundbreaking technology displays.
Hydrogen and Connected Automated Mobility
A significant highlight of Cenex Expo was the emphasis on hydrogen, a burgeoning area in the quest for sustainable automotive solutions and,
for the first time, the event featured a Hydrogen Technology Showcase, developed in partnership with the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative.
This dedicated space featured seminars, exhibitor stands and showcased pioneering hydrogen vehicles and refuelers, serving as a launchpad for innovations like the ICEBreaker – a fully-configured hydrogen fuel cell HGV truck.
Unifying the legacy of its founding Cenex-LCV show with Cenex-CAM, the inaugural Cenex Expo also marked a pivotal moment for Connected Automated Mobility, with a spotlight on cuttingedge technologies and thought leadership essential for advancing this dynamic field.
The event also provided the platform for the CAM Scale-Up UK programme announcement. Delivered by Zenzic, the programme aims to bolster the UK's position as a global leader in the Connected Automated Mobility (CAM) sector by providing innovative businesses with grants up to £100,000 from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
Groundbreaking unveilings
Cenex Expo 2024 provided the platform for several groundbreaking announcements and technological innovations, including:
t World’s First Rapid Charge Electric Motorcycle – Designed for emergency services, its battery design is shaped by aerodynamics.
t CALLUM SKYE – Hosted by Niche Vehicle Network on the UK Government Pavilion, this all-electric, all-wheel-drive vehicle represents cutting-edge British engineering.
t Aerial E-Nomad – A fully electric version of the ultimate go-anywhere sportscar, symbolising sustainable automotive design.
Inspiring thought leadership and collaboration
A premier speaker platform, Cenex Expo 2024 featured a seminar programme which saw a diverse line-up of almost 220 influential speakers and panellists including leading transportation policymakers, stakeholders, and infrastructure experts, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas to propel the future of mobility.
Addressing the full gambit of enabling building block technologies for Net Zero and Connected Automated Mobility, the seminar programme covered ‘what next’ for the motor industry innovation community, the scale-up of the CAM mobility ecosystem, and, for the first time, a dedicated Hydrogen Seminar space.
Cenex Expo returns next year to UTAC Millbrook date TBC. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Jonathan Lee Recruitment & Lithium Battery Recycling Solutions. Further details can be found on this page and the next.
Contact https://cenex-expo.com
Jonathan Lee Recruitment Energy & Renewables division continues to expand
The energy and renewables sector continues to experience rapid expansion, driven by increasing global demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly power sources. These requirements show no sign of slowing down.
In response, Jonathan Lee Recruitment proudly announces the expansion of its Energy and Renewables division, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to supporting the sector’s evolution.
Spearheaded by Associate Director, Lee Elwell, who has over a decade’s worth of experience specialising in energy recruitment, the division is perfectly placed to assist businesses seeking permanent, contract or interim recruitment across the full Energy & Renewables project lifecycle.
Complementing the division's expertise are Mechanical and Electrical recruitment consultant, Teresa Anderson, and Operational and Maintenance Recruitment
Lithium Battery Recycling Solutions
Lithium Battery Recycling Solutions is a division under the SUEZ/Cawleys Group of companies dedicated to the collection and recycling of Lithium batteries, especially from mobility sources.
Cawleys became a holder of an Approved Battery Exporter licence (ABE) in 2017 enabling them to have an approved waste facility under The Battery Directive 2006. In 2021 we became an Authorised Battery Treatment Operator ABTO which enabled us to further treat the batteries and pave the way for our next phase in developing a way to mechanically treat LiBs and separate the components for recycling to reduce export reliance.
Located in Luton, Bedfordshire, our pioneering treatment facility can effectively take waste lithium-ion batteries and mechanically separate them into a mixed recyclate flake that can be separated safely into individual waste streams. This ensures a high recycling rate as we can recover all of the battery solids that include anode copper, aluminium, case metals, plastic separator and black mass.
We can recover waste energy from the batteries at the discharge stage and this is harvested and used to power the equipment and external electric vehicle charge points.
We have established routes for both End of Life materials recovery and progressively set up a
partnership with a power supply manufacturing company which can repurpose certain Libs for 2nd Life use.
We have a broad experience with lithium batteries and have leading knowledge in how to deal with them from the collection stage to processing, in the best of conditions or the worst. We have helped our customer base manage difficult damaged defective batteries and can give advice and Risk mitigation services when dealing with critical ones.
Our focus is on batteries from E-mobilisation which includes all road marine and aerospace and we can handle the very biggest battery packs 2 individual cells. We have a Collection capability that covers the whole of the UK
Consultant, George Westwood, and Jonathan Lee Recruitment Director, Mark Bignell, who will continue to support Lee with technical and c-suite recruitment, the team is underpinned by Recruitment Assistant, Kate Barnard, who ensures the seamless execution of recruitment processes, from initial outreach to final onboarding.
The team’s specialised knowledge and industry insights augment the team's proficiency in sourcing top-tier talent across the entire project lifecycle.
To find out more about their energy recruitment services click here or to view their latest energy jobs click here
Have you got an Energy recruitment or Renewables recruitment need? Schedule a consultation with their dedicated team today – book a meeting here or contact the team on 01384 446154 or via lee.elwell@jonlee.co.uk
and Trans European logistics.
Today we have all licences and permissions in place to collect, treat and recycle LiBs with one of the UK’s first Mechanical Shredding lines which separates the materials inside a LiB for refining into new raw materials. Our future focus is dedicated to the development of a new value chain market for LiB materials to keep costs controlled and offer a truly circular economy solution with the opportunity to make new batteries from old materials.
T 0208 0907 300
hello@lithiumbatteryrecycling.co.uk
www.lithiumbatteryrecycling.co.uk
Peab builds new main water & waste water pipelines
Peab has been commissioned to build new water and waste water pipelines in Nittedal. The customer is Nittedal Municipality and the contract is worth NOK 296 million.
The project is a result of the requirement to reduce pollution of the Nitelva River by closing two local treatment plants. A power line will therefore be built to the central treatment plant and a new feeder line will be installed from the plant to Nittedal Municipality. The project includes construction of a more than ten kilometre stretch of the main water and
waste water pipeline.
The work will be carried out in areas where the ground conditions are difficult in some places. No-dig methods will be widely used to protect the environment and biodiversity, as well as to reduce damage to cultivated land. The project will work to minimise the impact on residents and road users.
Peab has collaborated with our customer and others in the development phase to arrive at the optimal
SUEZ to pilot Salinity Solutions' low energy reuse technology
SUEZ, a global leader in environmental services, and Salinity Solutions, an engineering technology company based in Birmingham (UK), have signed an agreement to pilot an innovative reverse osmosis system at a fully operational wastewater treatment plant in France.
Salinity Solutions’ HyBatch , a ground-breaking batch reverse osmosis (RO) technology – the first in the world to be manufactured commercially – has been developed to reduce the environmental impact of water treatment. Salinity’s system uses less energy, purifies a higher amount of wastewater, generates less waste, and is more compact than traditional RO systems.
Following successful lab trials and a scale-up study over the last 18 months, SUEZ has ordered a unit to be installed later this year. The aim of the pilot is to evaluate how HyBatch – which was initially trialled as a method of concentrating and extracting minerals
from brackish flows – can improve on conventional reverse osmosis, to remove salts and contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, heavy metals and PFAS from wastewater.
Jörg Linsenmaier, Executive Vice President for SUEZ Engineering and Construction and Member of Executive Committee, said, “SUEZ is constantly seeking ways to enable customers to provide access to water services with resilient and innovative solutions. The aim of this partnership is to optimise the re-use of a high-quality wastewater to increase the availability of water, while simultaneously reducing energy and chemical usage.”
The advanced treatment solution will contribute to promoting wastewater as a new resource, particularly in coastal regions such as the Mediterranean that are exposed to saline intrusion into groundwater resources and sewer networks.
www.salinitysolutions.co.uk
Costain selected by Thames Water to upgrade key treatment sites
Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, has been awarded a design and build contract with Thames Water to upgrade two strategic treatment assets in Sandhurst, Berkshire and Selborne, Hampshire.
The award, valued at more than £5m for the two sites, will see Costain support Thames Water's upgrading of wastewater treatment assets as part of its Wastewater Asset Assurance Programme (WAAP). The schemes are the first that have been awarded to Costain as part of a wider investment programme for sewage treatment sites (STWs). This could see up to 25 similar projects allocated to Costain to create cost-efficient infrastructure solutions for Thames Water.
monitoring technology to validate flow-to-full treatment for wastewater before it is discharged, upgrading the existing screening operations at the inlet station, improving storage tank capacity and revising the storm return pumping systems. The work will improve the ability of both sewage treatment works to treat the increasing volumes of incoming sewage, reducing the need for untreated discharges in wet weather. The schemes are due to complete in 2025.
Thames Water is currently undertaking its largest ever upgrade of sewers and STWs, with plans to improve more than 250 sites in the coming years as part of a £1.12bn investment in its wastewater sites.
solutions for the work to be done.
"We would like to thank Nittedal Municipality for entrusting us and good cooperation in the first phase of the project. It means a lot to us to contribute with our experience and expertise in close cooperation with everyone involved and thereby contribute to continued reliable water and sewage service for residents in the future. We look forward to carrying out this project efficiently and safely," says Erik Hedvald Nilsen, MD of Peab’s subsidiary Arne Olav Lund, which will do the work.
The project is a contract in partnering that started with project planning. The project will begin in the next few days and is expected to be completed in December 2025.
www.peab.com
Aquarius Spectrum unveils new brand identity
Aquarius Spectrum proudly announces the launch of its new visual identity as AQS, signifying a major step forward in its mission to revolutionise the water network management. Following its acquisition by Aliaxis in 2022, AQS has embraced a new strategic direction focused on enhancing water conservation and delivering unparalleled leak management solutions to water utilities globally. This newly crafted identity manifests our intent to echo the user-friendly and straightforward nature of our high-performance leak management solutions in our visuals, encapsulating the essence of simplicity and efficiency that AQS embodies.
The new visual identity of AQS represents the company's integrated approach to water loss management, symbolising a transformation that aligns with our core strengths of innovation, expertise, and reliable partnership. It reflects our evolution and introduces the company's differentiating values of customer-centricity, empathy, and a purpose-driven mission to massively reduce non-revenue water. It strengthens our commitment to technological advancement and water stewardship.
The new visual identity of AQS captures the essence of our approach and vision. The logo features a carefully designed circle representing our system's seamless integration capabilities. At its heart, the water droplet signifies our advanced leak detection technology, while the gradient within symbolises the fusion of our cutting-edge solutions, including state-of-the-art sensors, AI algorithms, cloud-based proprietary software, and big data analysis.
The planned construction will involve implementing flow
www.costain.com
https://aqs-systems.com
Water Management
UK’s first ozone treatment plant will help tackle ‘hidden’ pollutants in Britain’s waterways
Upcoming legislation and growing public concern over river water quality will see UK companies pressed to act on micropollutants – Howard Marles, CEO of Curio Group, reports on a solution to tackling the problem underway in Severn Trent
Over the next decade tackling micropollutants will become a major issue for the UK water industry. Last year UK Water Industry Research published 13 reports deepening knowledge of the scale and extent of the issue in the UK’s waterways. The EU’s revised Urban Wastewater Directive, which the UK still adheres to, is in the process of strengthening provisions that require both polluters and water companies to monitor and remove micropollutants.
While the news has been dominated by the visible sewage in our rivers and bathing water, micropollutants are another serious, but hidden issue. Take a glass of water from these rivers and you will find traces of everything from prescription medicine to ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAs) from industrial run off. Though these may present in low concentrations, the cocktail effect produced by a combination of different micropollutants can pose a greater toxicity. There is a growing body of research that shows the bioaccumulation of this mixture of micropollutants can be harmful to both humans and the environment over a prolonged period.
and is also proposed for the revised European Urban Wastewater Directive. Higher removal rates can be achieved by increasing the ozone dose or combining the oxidative treatment step (ozone) with an adsorptive one such as granular activated carbon (GAC) which will remove over 90% of micropollutants, alongside the transformation products of the oxidation process.
Ozone is both highly effective and environmentally sustainable. It provides a broad and versatile spectrum of activity that can effectively target a wide variety of micropollutants, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, as well as tackling the issue of antimicrobial resistance. Ozone also reacts quickly with micropollutants, leading to rapid degradation removal from wastewater. This allows for efficient treatment processes and shorter contact times compared to alternative methods.
With major investment in our water infrastructure due in AMP8, there is an opportunity for water companies – who are not responsible for the micropollutants, but who have a role to play in removing them – to tackle the issue head on.
For many companies, much of this money is already going into updated wastewater treatment systems in order to comply with the Environment Act. As part of this round of funding, water companies in the UK are already implementing pilot projects to tackle micropollutants.
Wastewater treatment plants at the Frankton, Itchen Bank, and Ludlow are using ozone technology to remove micropollutants such as diclofenac, carbamazepine, benzotriazole, propranolol and ibuprofen. Our research, as well as data from operational plants in central Europe, shows that ozone - in the correct dose - is capable of removing an average of 80% or more of these micropollutants from wastewater. This 80% average removal target is part of Swiss regulation
The trial project in Severn Trent is based on the success of the first European micropollutant removal plant in Neugut, Switzerland. The plant has been operational since 2014, it has since become a reference standard for the country to implement its micropollutant removal plan by 2035. Feedback from the Neugut WWTP has led to the design of new, more efficient systems for ozone dose control and maintenance of the ozonation stage. Further optimisations are still in progress.
The Severn Trent experience is likely to play a similar role in the UK, with the Environment Agency
using and analysing the sampling results from the Severn Trent sites, and other pilot sites to formulate new micropollutant removal regulations.
The trial pilot plants installed at Severn Trent work as a ‘plug and play’ type installation. This has been specifically designed to allow engineers to evaluate and select the optimal treatment solutions depending on type of wastewater being discharged. Laboratory testing on the samples will provide a technical-economical assessment that will optimise the eventual full-scale installation.
The collaboration between Curio, Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions, Severn Trent, alongside innovative technology solutions, demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling what is very likely to become a priority. By investing in pilot projects like the one at Severn Trent, tailored solutions at a range of sites across the UK can be developed, optimised, and eventually scaled up, minimising both capital and operational costs while complying with future legislation that tackles the full range of micropollutants.
As the UK water industry embraces these advancements, it sets a precedent for sustainable water management practices. With concerted efforts and continued collaboration, the vision of clean and safe waterways free from micropollutants can become a reality, safeguarding this precious resource upon which we all depend.
This article first appeared in Water Magazine in August 2024.
T +44 (0)1442 843640 info@curio.group www.curio.group
The new wastewater micropollutant removal plant under construction at Frankton
Pioneers of sustainable recycling solutions
Everybody is talking about sustainability, and so they should be. In today’s world, environmental consciousness is paramount, and businesses strive to become more sustainable, manufacture sustainable products, and champion sustainability.
One company that has always had these values at its core is Kiverco Ltd, renowned for manufacturing the World’s Toughest Recycling Plant. Kiverco plants last longer than any others in the industry, embodying true sustainability. When people talk about Kiverco, they know they are talking about a robust, durable product built to last.
Kiverco's credentials comes from Aidan McKiver, owner and director, who embodies sustainability with his motto, "Do it once, do it right.” Instead of settling for the first solution, he pushes for the best one each time. By the time a product transitions from design to production, it is the best it can be. This excellence in engineering results in robust products that last much longer. Proof of this is a Kiverco recycling plant built over 20 years ago that is still operational today.
A recent collaboration between Kiverco and Gray’s Recycling Services in Scotland exemplifies this. Gray’s Recycling, a family-owned business since 1994, first invested in a small Kiverco recycling plant in 2017 to expand its recycling capabilities. Impressed by Kiverco’s machinery, they expanded again in 2019 with additional equipment, including conveyors, a trommel, a feeder, a magnet, a flip flow screen, and a
density separator DS150. This laid the foundation for a successful partnership based on trust and reliability.
In 2023, Gray’s Recycling continued to upscale its operations. They turned to Kiverco again, resulting in an impressive new plant installed in January 2024. By integrating new technology and reconfiguring its existing plant, Gray’s Recycling Services doubled its capacity and capability, positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable waste management practices.
Kenny Gray, Director at Gray’s, emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. The investment in upgrading their plant represents a significant milestone in their journey towards a greener, more efficient operation. With Kiverco’s support and expertise, Gray’s Recycling Services is well-positioned to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing industry while minimising its environmental footprint.
Marcus McAlinden, Sales Manager at Kiverco, echoed Kenny Gray’s sentiments, highlighting the company’s dedication to customer satisfaction and sustainability. Kiverco ensures its customers achieve optimal performance and long-term success by providing world-class and sustainable machinery and unparalleled aftercare service. The collaboration with Gray’s Recycling Services serves as a testament to the effectiveness of Kiverco’s recycling plants in driving sustainable change.
The upgrades at Gray’s Recycling Services not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to the broader goal of building a circular economy. By expanding its capacity to recover a wider range of waste, especially from construction, Gray’s Recycling Services is reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible waste management practices.
At the core of Kiverco’s mission is a steadfast dedication to sustainability. Their recycling plants are not merely machines; they represent a vision for a greener, cleaner future. Engineered with precision and care, Kiverco plants are designed to withstand the test of time while minimising environmental impact. With a focus on
durability and adaptability, Kiverco offers solutions that evolve with the industry's changing needs.
As the world faces pressing environmental challenges, the need for sustainable recycling solutions has never been more urgent. Kiverco’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond rhetoric; it is embedded in every aspect of the company’s operations. Aidan’s influence is evident throughout the business, guiding the design, engineering, and manufacturing of tough, robust recycling plants. Through their innovative designs and dedication to customer satisfaction, Kiverco is leading the charge towards a more sustainable future.
With Kiverco by their side, companies like Gray’s Recycling Services are investing not just in machinery but also in a brighter, cleaner future. As the demand for sustainable recycling solutions grows, Kiverco remains at the forefront, empowering businesses to make a meaningful environmental impact while ensuring long-term profitability and success. Kiverco’s pioneering approach is reshaping the industry, setting new standards for excellence in recycling technology. As we look towards the future, one thing is clear: with Kiverco leading the way, the possibilities for a cleaner, greener world are endless.
T +44 (0)28 8773 8811 info@kiverco.com https://kiverco.com
The EU’s ban on plastic packaging is another example of plastiphobia
The European Parliament’s new proposal for regulation of packaging waste has been unveiled. The new Directive would ban single-use plastics packaging for fresh fruit and vegetables, mini hotel toiletries, and fast-food restaurants.
For Michael Laurier, CEO of Symphony Environmental, a world leader in environmentally friendly packaging and advanced polymer technology, this ban is not the way to tackle the problem, instead it will cause more damage not only to the environment but also to businesses and the economy, and human health.
“There is currently a paranoia around plastics,” says Laurier. “Plastiphobia arose due to a core problem with degradation, because regular plastics can create microplastics that lie or float around for decades if they get into the open environment.
manufacturing technologies instead of depriving people of the use of plastic products.
“Plastic bags were invented in the late 1950s to protect the environment by helping to phase out paper and fabric alternatives. Scapegoating plastic products when they have made our world safer and healthier is unfair and unfounded, and is also counterproductive.
“What alternative is the EU looking at when it comes to packaging? If they’re looking at paper and cardboard packaging, then they’re wrong. Paper and cardboard packaging have been found to produce 70% more air pollutants and 50% more water pollutants than plastic bags. They are also heavier and bulkier, which means transportation costs and associated pollution are higher. Paper is not the best material for protecting food from contamination, especially when wet.”
DS Smith launches service for businesses to assess recyclability
Leading sustainable packaging provider, DS Smith, announces the rollout of a service for businesses to evaluate the recyclability levels of their packaging, becoming the first integrated paper, packaging, and recycling company to do so. The service is designed to meet the growing sustainability demands of consumers and organisations while, crucially, addressing the ongoing changes in packaging legislation.
Regulations are constantly evolving to provide increased focus on establishing more sustainable packaging solutions. With so many demands on packaging, from recyclability through to performance and aesthetics, meeting all these demands does not come without its challenges.
from both CEPI and 4evergreen. Customers will receive detailed data, and a report summarising the findings, along with a recyclability score from –100 to +100 and conclusion on suitability for recycling in standard paper mills.
“But this can now be prevented by using modern and more sustainable plastic
www.symphonyenvironmental.com
To help businesses solve these challenges, DS Smith’s Recyclability Evaluation Service (RES) performs specific tests to determine the recyclability of fibre-based packaging in standard paper mills across Europe. Tests will be undertaken in a state-ofthe-art Fibre Development Laboratory at their Kemsley Paper Mill with each test performed in line with industry standards
Beyond the testing service, RES will offer businesses the opportunity to consult with DS Smith’s Design and Innovation Team overall recyclability of their packaging. It was the work of this team that played a significant role in DS Smith recently hitting their target of replacing more than one billion pieces of plastic over a year ahead of schedule.
www.dssmith.com
New recycling hub opens at Appleford depot
Heidelberg Materials has opened a new recycling hub at its Appleford depot in Oxfordshire.
It is the first of several planned at the company’s sites this year as part of its strategy to conserve natural materials and promote the circular economy.
The Appleford hub will recycle construction waste, diverting it away from landfill and processing and reusing it to deliver sustainable products to its customers. It means the site is now a one-stop shop for customers, supplying primary aggregate, ready-mixed concrete and asphalt in addition to recycled material.
James Whitelaw, Recycling Managing Director, Heidelberg Materials UK, said, “Recycling, reusing and reducing the use of primary raw materials is crucial to reaching net zero.
“Our network of recycling hubs will allow us to provide the most sustainable products to our customers through circularity and innovation to enable building more, with less.”
The recycling hubs form part of Heidelberg Material’s recycling business line, which includes rebranded Manchester-based A1 Services, acquired by the company in 2022.
www.heidelbergmaterials.com
Sustainable Agriculture
Trelleborg Tires drives sustainability
Trelleborg Tires was the only tire player present at the Global Agribusiness Festival (GAFFFF), the largest international agriculture gathering, taking place at Allianz Parque, São Paulo, from 27th to 28th of June. GAFFFF brought together leaders and technical experts from both public and private sectors for engaging debates on topics shaping the future of agribusiness, including climate change's impact on agriculture, food security, new technologies, and market access. For 30 years, Trelleborg Tires, a global leader in agricultural tires, has been committed to supporting Brazilian agribusiness with advanced and sustainable tire solutions. Featuring compounds made with recycled and natural materials and optimised tread designs, Trelleborg tires have played a pivotal role in enhancing crop yields and promoting sustainable agricultural practices across Brazil. In 2023 Trelleborg Tires was honoured as the 'Best Agricultural Tire' by Brazil's Visão Agro awards, reflecting its on-going commitment to innovation and its significant contribution to the Brazilian agricultural industry. In response to the call for sustainable innovation in agriculture, Trelleborg Tires has engineered and manufactured the TM1 ECO POWER, its most sustainable tire ever, that was on show in the Allianz Parque. Developed with OE partner Fendt, the TM1 ECO POWER tire for both traditional and electric tractors, is made from 65% recycled and bio-based materials, outperforming and outlasting standard tires on road and hard soil. This tire solution uses sustainable engineering for significant savings in fuel and battery consumption on electric vehicles, delivering a 47% lower rolling resistance compared to other premium tires. Its innovative design and self-cleaning properties give 26% greater traction on hard terrain and 12% better operator comfort, setting a new tire standard for the future of agribusiness.
NSA Sheep Event provides new Farming Minister with insight
The pressures facing UK sheep farmers were recognised by new Farming Minister, Daniel Zeichner, at the National Sheep Association (NSA) Sheep Event 2024 with reassurance given to the full seminar tent of visitors of his ambition to create a better future for the industry.
Focusing on a sustainable future for the sector, the flagship event of the NSA, taking place at the Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire, attracted prominent names from industry to lead seminar discussions including Mr Zeichner who joined NSA Chief Executive, Phil Stocker, 'in conversation' for the NSA Breakfast Club Live.
The Minister took questions in the session stating that he welcomed the opportunity to listen and learn from an event full of farmers, more knowledgeable than he about
the sheep sector in particular. With concerns raised of the future of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), food security, sheep health and the rewilding agenda, the seminar provided much for both the audience and the Minister himself to take away for further thought.
A main topic of discussion was the SFI where Mr Zeichner asserted that the Labour Government would not overturn progress made with the new scheme by the previous government but he recognised that there were issues with it that would need to be rectified, in particular to those farming in upland areas. The need to ensure future support is tailored to individual farmers' circumstances was also emphasised.
Fujitsu and Oceanair helping vertical farming reach next level
Sophisticated temperature control using Fujitsu General Air Conditioning UK technology is delivering the best possible growing conditions for a vertical farming enterprise in Northamptonshire.
Vertical Future says its systems use up to 98% less water compared to traditional farming, are energy and resource-efficient, and can grow the same amount of produce in 1% of the space when compared to traditional methods.
The installation was carried out by CSL Air Conditioning with equipment supplied by distributor Oceanair.
Darren James, Director of Vertical Future, said, “We deliver advanced growing solutions tailored to an industry that demands unparalleled precision and control. Our systems integrate sophisticated monitoring and control
technologies, ensuring the optimum growth environment to maximise crop quality and yield.
“I was extremely impressed with the combined work of both Fujitsu and Oceanair on this project. Both companies attended site in tandem so between them could come up with the best option for this project in loadings and efficiency, and choose the relevant equipment within the area we could install the systems.”
For the installation at Syan Farms in Horton, CSL Air Conditioning chose equipment from Fujitsu to meet the precise requirements of the customer and end-user. Electrical installation was carried out by a third party.
To discover more about the extensive Fujitsu product range, visit: www.fujitsu-general.com/uk or email: sales@fgac.fujitsu-general.com
IFAD urges G20 leaders to invest in sustainable agriculture and rural development
“G20 support is crucial for targeted investments and effective public policies that foster prosperous rural economies and strengthen family farming and food systems,” said Alvaro Lario, President of the UN's International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), at the G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting in Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
The G20 Brazilian Presidency and IFAD, the only specialised UN agency and international financial institution that focuses exclusively on rural issues, share a common vision on the importance of investing in sustainable agriculture & rural development to address pressing global challenges.
"Global initiatives such as the UN Decade of Family Farming and the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty need robust support and political commitment to influence policies, and this is where G20 leaders can make
a measurable difference,” added Lario.
IFAD is the only international financial institution collaborating with the G20 Agriculture Working Group, which aims to promote international cooperation on critical agricultural issues including food security, sustainability, and climate adaptation.
In partnership with other international financial institutions and development agencies, IFAD aims to invest US$10 billion in rural people over the next three years, targeting family farmers, smallholders, indigenous peoples, and local communities. This funding will boost agricultural productivity, enhance resilience to climate and economic shocks, and improve market access and incomes.
Family farming plays a vital role in creating a sustainable future, contributing 80% of the world's food by value and
ensuring the livelihood and food security of over 2 billion people. Despite the major challenges they face, including the climate crisis and other structural problems such as rapid urbanisation and the gender gap, family farming is key to guaranteeing rural populations' access to adequate food in many parts of the global south.
www.ifad.org/en
Hillhead 2024: Unparalleled success
Attracting more than 19,500 trade visitors and featuring an impressive 598 exhibitors across three show days, Hillhead 2024 – the biggest working quarrying exhibition on the planet – once again raised the ante, showcasing a plethora of new products, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative trends that promise to shape the future of the industry.
Hillhead 2024 is over for another year, but there is no denying that the biennial quarrying industry extravaganza once again delivered its trademark combination of exciting new product/service launches, countless technological innovations, and more live plant/equipment demonstrations than ever. This year’s hotly anticipated event – held from 25-27 June at Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry, near Buxton, Derbyshire – proved to be a huge success on all counts and underlined its status as the UK’s (and perhaps even the world’s) biggest live demonstration trade show for the quarrying, construction and recycling industries.
Building on the momentum of the hugely
successful 2022 exhibition, Hillhead 2024 was the most visited edition ever in terms of the volume of visits over the three days, with visitors spending more time at the show than ever before and a record number attending for more than one day. In total there were a staggering 26,626 visits over the three days – marking an 8% increase over the 2022 edition. In terms of unique visitors, with 19,577 attendees from 67 countries (+6.2% compared with 2022) this year’s edition had the second highest ever number of trade visitors (only 2018 was higher at 19,753, although that show had less volume over the three days). Hillhead 2024 also recorded the event’s busiest ever show day in its 42 year history, with almost 10,800 visitors attending on day two.
Put simply, there is no trade show quite like it in the world. With every square metre of exhibition space – including an extended Showground Pavilion – fully booked and occupied, and a record number of machines taking part in four live demonstration areas around the quarry, not to mention a host of site improvements (eg additional catering areas, more car parking spaces, new hydration stations etc.), Hillhead 2024 was bigger, better, and busier than ever before.
Commenting on this year’s show, event director, Richard Bradbury, said, “With the sun shining and visitors spending more time at the show than ever before, it was fantastic to see Hillhead continuing to break new attendance records. It’s an exciting time for the industry as digitalisation, automation, and decarbonisation continue to drive change within the quarrying, construction, and recycling sectors, and this was represented by the scale and quality of the 600 or so companies that exhibited.
“But my abiding memory of Hillhead 2024 is of the unique ‘human’ platform it provided for buyers and sellers to engage – to feel, touch, and interact with the products on show, and, of course, to catch up with colleagues & network with the wider industry.”
Hillhead returns in two years’ time to Buxton’s Hillhead Quarry from 23-25 June 2026. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Flender, Flexco, FRUTIGER, Indeco, MMD Mineral Sizing Europe, PEMO PUMPS, Translas & VEGA. Further details can be found on this page and the next three.
www.hillhead.com
Sustainable and environmentally friendly welding
Translas was excited to be included in the 600 plus exhibitors present at Hillhead 2024. It was an exceptional event and focused heavily on sustainability, with an increased number of eco-friendly innovations, such as electric and hybrid machinery and advancements in dust suppression, emissions reduction, and recycling technologies.
This emphasis on sustainable solutions aligns with growing industry concerns around environmental impact and the push towards net-zero goals, making this the ideal event for Translas to showcase our welding fume extractors.
We have developed a range of innovative welding fume extraction guns, including the 8XR Cobot, 8XE MIG, and 8TE TIG Fume Extractors, designed to capture welding fumes directly at the source. These extraction guns not only significantly improve the air quality around welders, reducing exposure to harmful particles, but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly workplace.
By capturing fumes directly, Translas products minimise the need for large-scale ventilation systems, which often require substantial energy and maintenance. This reduction in energy use supports sustainable practices by lowering a facility's carbon footprint. Additionally, these welding guns help companies meet increasingly
emissions.
The materials used in the production of Translas extraction guns are also chosen with sustainability in mind, ensuring durability and longevity, which
reduces waste and resource consumption over time and further demonstrates our commitment to sustainability.
Our interactive sessions at Hillhead 2024 with real-time demonstrations, made the exhibition a great success. More than just a trade show; it became an educational experience with excellent networking opportunities. The venue’s unique setting provided an exciting, immersive experience, as machinery and equipment could be viewed in their intended environment.
In conclusion, Hillhead 2024 provided Translas with an incredible platform to showcase our commitment to sustainability and innovation in welding fume extraction. The event’s focus on ecofriendly advancements and sustainable solutions aligned perfectly with our mission to create safer, healthier, and more environmentally responsible workplaces. Engaging with industry leaders and demonstrating our cutting-edge fume extraction technology allowed us to highlight how Translas products not only improve worker health but also help reduce environmental impact. We look forward to continuing our journey toward greener manufacturing and fostering partnerships that prioritise a cleaner, safer industry for everyone.
Contact info-uk@translas.com www.translas.com/uk
How to save fuel with Indeco HP Fuel Saving hammers
Indeco HP Fuel Saving hammers guarantee fuel savings, efficient demolition and maximum productivity compared to competitors in the same class.
Power in demolition is crucial. But it’s certainly not the only determining factor in assessing the costeffectiveness of a tool like the demolition hammer. Hence, Indeco now offers the HP Fuel Saving, a hydraulic hammer able to guarantee fuel savings of up to 20% compared to models of equivalent weight and performance produced by other manufacturers.
And that’s not all: the Indeco HP series combines Fuel Saving with optimum performance, and Fuel Saving with maximum productivity thanks to its upgraded hydraulic system, allowing better efficiency and improved operating pressure, making best use of the hydraulic power and considerably reducing the engine speed of the operating machine.
This becomes even more evident when comparing the Indeco hammer to competing gas- or gas/ oil-powered products of similar size. This is an important advantage, not only in terms of environmental protection but also the profitability of the work itself, which increases more than proportionally to the size of the hammer used.
The importance of efficiency in a demolition hammer
t A productive hammer needs to be maintained, following a strict maintenance schedule
t A quality, wellmaintained hammer can work well for years on end
t Being able to estimate the spare parts needed is key to ensuring continuity of production and avoiding downtime
t Particularly large companies
need to know their running costs (maintenance program)
t The running costs/year of the hammer can be estimated at 15% of its purchase value
t The running costs/year of the excavator can be estimated at 5% of its purchase value
t The cost/year of excavator FUEL is up to 10 TIMES the cost/year of maintaining the hammer (including tools)
t Hammer efficiency is the best compromise between productivity/reliability/costs
t A large hammer can do an excellent JOB even if mounted on an outdated machine, it is difficult to assume otherwise.
Contact
T +44 (0)1606 597560 unitedkingdom@indeco.it https://indeco.it/en
stringent environmental regulations aimed at protecting worker health and reducing industrial
FRUTIGER from Hillhead to bauma 2025
The benefits of attending Hillhead will lead to interest next April 2025, Munich will become the epicentre of the construction industry as bauma – the world's largest trade fair for the construction sector – opens its doors. The FRUTIGER Company AG will be present as a leading provider of Wheel Washing Systems, Demucking Systems for
construction machinery, and Dust Control Systems under its own MobyDick brand, showcasing an inspiring exhibition presence.
As a long-standing leader in innovation, FRUTIGER will present its comprehensively modernised MobyDick Site Emission Control product range at bauma 2025. This newly structured product line offers standardised solutions (Standard Line) for every challenge, as well as customised solutions (Tailor Made Line) when needed. This approach ensures the best possible solutions for clean construction sites, clean vehicles, and clean air, regardless of the starting conditions.
Contact www.frutiger.ch
Belt conveyor productivity
Flexco is the world leader in belt conveyor productivity. With an extensive catalog featuring mechanical belt fasteners and splicing systems, maintenance and cleaning tools, and other accessories that help to keep your belt moving, there's a seemingly endless opportunity to improve your belt conveying process.
Furthermore, our network of territory managers, distributors, and customer service representatives expands across the globe, and is dedicated to helping you ensure that your facility's production runs smoothly and efficiently.
Flexco is also proud to foster an environment that strongly considers how our actions impact the world around us. Whether it is by developing products for our partners that help to limit their environmental impact, through our philanthropic efforts to work with organisations that positively impact our employees
and local communities, or through our constant effort to build a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, Flexco is committed to maintaining a high level of corporate social responsibility.
See why we've continued to be the top choice for conveyor solutions for over a century; become a partner in productivity today!
Contact
T 01274 600942 uksales@flexco.com
https://uk.flexco.com/GB/EN/Flexco. htm
Hillhead Review – Top Exhibitors
MMD Mineral Sizing Europe
MMD have been a global leader for over 45 years in the design and manufacture of innovative material processing equipment. Our core products, the Mineral Sizer™ and Apron Plate Feeder, feature in groundbreaking in-pit solutions that enhance productivity, profitability, safety, and promote sustainability in the mining industry.
MMD’s revolutionary Bulk Ore Sorting System combines the benefits of In-Pit Sizing and Conveying with pioneering ore analyser technology. The ore analyser distinguishes between grades of material, enabling the separation of ore from waste at the mine face. By allowing this to happen earlier in the process, trucks need only to haul ore, not waste, to the processing plant. The
results are up to 10% less energy usage and a lower cost per tonne. Efficiency advantages are passed on to the downstream processes too, with less water consumption, ore grade uplift, and SAG mill benefits. These MMD systems are currently operating in South Africa, Chile and Brazil, processing copper, platinum and nickel ore.
We invest heavily in developing new technology that maximises efficiency. We are committed to helping our customers achieve their sustainability targets and lead the way towards a greener future for the industry.
Contact T +44 (0)1773 835533 info@mmdsizers.com www.mmdsizers.com
VEGA showcases robust sensors for quarrying solutions
VEGA brought our signature yellow glow to Hillhead 2024, attracting quarrying and construction professionals. The event was an excellent opportunity to reconnect with existing customers and engage with new ones, while demonstrating our expertise in hazardous area installations and ATEX/UKEX compliance.
As bitumen systems are being reclassified under DSEAR by the HSE, the need for reliable explosion protection has grown. VEGA’s extensive experience in supplying ATEX/UKEX-approved sensors and panels positions us as a leader, offering both technical expertise and cost-effective solutions.
Our 6X® radar sensor was a highlight, providing reliable level measurement for silos, tanks, and IBCs, even in dusty environments. We also showcased our battery-powered remote inventory systems, which ensure high availability and secure data sharing from ‘sensor to software to screen’.
Flender’s drivetrain solutions
This year we will be featuring the new revolution in gearbox design: The Flender One, and the award-winning AIQ products including the AIQ Core – a new standard in gearbox condition monitoring, and AIQ Detect – a world’s first in elastomeric coupling condition monitoring.
Safety remained a top priority, with our microwave-based, non-contact blockage and object detection systems offering robust protection for conveyors, chutes, and hoppers. We also highlighted our abrasion-proof pressure sensors and conveyor mass flow measurement solutions, ideal for demanding quarry environments.
We remain dedicated to delivering reliable and trusted level and pressure solutions. To discover how VEGA can enhance your applications, visit VEGA's Building Materials Solutions.
T +44 (0)1444 870055 info.uk@vega.com www.vega.com/uk
Alongside these we will also present our couplings range, the best fit for the aggregate, recycling, and construction industries, and our market-leading service portfolio that includes onsite inspections, retrofits, and upgrades including 3rd party products and many other solutions.
With 125 years of experience in the mining and process industries, Flender is well-placed to support your business in maintaining high plant availability and reducing unplanned downtime.
Email: flenderuk.gb@flender.com to book your free live demo in advance. Get to know more about our products and services by visiting: www.flender.com
Low-carbon heating systems mandatory in new-build homes from 2025: Where does copper piping fit in?
In a bid to drive a greener future for prospective homeowners, the UK Government introduced the Future Homes Standard in 2019, which ensures newly built homes have low-carbon, energy-efficient heating systems from 2025 onwards.
The heating and powering of buildings consumes 30% of the UK's total energy use; therefore, it’s clear that homes play a significant role in the UK's effort towards reducing energy consumption.
The shift in how we heat our homes from 2025
To meet the Government’s target of net-zero greenhouse emissions by 2050, our homes must become more sustainable. By implementing alternative energy systems and using recyclable materials like copper piping in
Building for a greener tomorrow
As World Green Building Week draws to a close, it's imperative to reflect on the industry's progress and the challenges that lie ahead. The shift towards sustainable construction is driven by a growing awareness of the urgent need to address climate change and reduce our environmental impact.
However, sustainable construction is more than just building green infrastructure. It's about designing, constructing, and operating buildings in a way that minimises their environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle. This requires a holistic approach that considers factors such as materials sourcing, energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. One of the key challenges facing the industry is the need to balance sustainability with affordability. While sustainable building materials and technologies can sometimes have higher upfront costs, their long-term benefits, such as reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance expenses, can offset these initial investments and cannot be disputed.
At Duraproducts, we believe Lifecycle Assessments (LCAs) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are essential tools for our sustainability journey. Since receiving these certifications in 2023, we've been able to expand our business further into Europe, thanks to the standardised assessment of our products' environmental performance and impacts throughout their lifecycle. It's also been encouraging to see a growing demand from architects, engineers, and designers for EPDs and LCAs, as they too recognise the importance of measuring and mitigating the whole-life carbon footprint of their projects.
To overcome these challenges and accelerate the transition to sustainable construction, the industry must invest in research and development, promote education and training, and collaborate with stakeholders. Find out more about how Duraproducts contributes to a healthier, safer, and more sustainable built environment here: www.duraproducts.co.uk
heating, we can make strides towards increasing the longevity and versatility of our homes.
There are a range of lowcarbon installations that developers and homeowners can embrace - including heat pumps, electric and biomass boilers, hybrid systems, solar water heating and insulation – to increase sustainability in homes while continuing to generate heat.
Copper’s role in low-carbon heating systems As an excellent conductor of heat, copper allows for rapid and efficient heat transfer, making it the standout
choice for supplying the heat generated by low-carbon heating systems.
Copper pipes can be with integrated with air-source heat pumps, transporting the heat extracted from outside air to radiators, electric heaters and other outlets. As well as improving efficiency, copper pipes are also infinitely recyclable, helping to reduce carbon emissions associated with the design of air-source heat pumps.
To find out more about the recyclability of copper, please visit: www.cuspuk.com
EnviraBoard launches first carbon negative building boards
The UK-based manufacturer, EnviraBoard, has announced its plans to bring a carbon-negative building board to the construction industry.
Using proven Danish technology (IP acquired) EnviraBoard utilises recycled paper sludge as the raw material for its sustainable building boards, which are aptly named ‘EnviraBoards’. This paper sludge, which is a secondary waste material that would usually end up in landfill or incineration, is free from toxins and is environmentally safe.
The EnviraBoard product offers both a solution to the waste disposal challenges in the paper recycling industry, and a new, sustainable, and totally circular alternative to the widely used plasterboard productstypically made from gypsum, which is not only mined, but environmentally challenging and requires specialist recycling solutions.
The new EnviraBoards demonstrate a net reduction in carbon emission (compared to disposing of the waste) and can be recycled to produce new boards, or simply allowed to biodegrade naturally. They also offer strong acoustic and fire-retardant performance, excellent impact resistance, and are flexible, clean, quick and easy to install, handle and finish.
EnviraBoard has launched a SEED funding round (4th July 2024), with a target of £2m, to support the expansion of its UK manufacturing business including the construction of a mini-plant. Following a project with the Institute of Manufacturing at the University of Cambridge, which assessed market feasibility, EnviraBoard is progressing a supply chain agreement with Palm Paper in Kings Lynn and has already received expressions of interest from distributors in Scandinavia.
https://enviraboard.com
Commercial partnership to drive decarbonisation in construction
OneClick LCA, a leading provider of construction life-cycle assessment software, has announced a strategic commercial partnership with the US Green Building Council (USGBC). This collaboration supports USGBC members by providing discounted access to One Click LCA software, offering educational opportunities, and increasing outreach efforts to promote decarbonisation across the construction industry in the US.
The construction industry plays a major role in global climate change, accounting for nearly 40% of yearly carbon emissions. These emissions stem from both embodied and operational sources. The most familiar source is the carbon emissions generated from the operation and use of a building throughout its lifespan. Embodied carbon, on the other hand, refers to CO2 emissions produced during the manufacturing, transporting, and installing of building materials – the
carbon footprint of a construction project before it becomes operational. Reducing embodied carbon during the manufacturing and early construction stages of a project is crucial for mitigating its overall impact.
In the past few months, the US Federal government has ramped up efforts to promote decarbonisation in construction through various zero-carbon initiatives and climate standards, such as the Investing in America Agenda, the national definition of zero emissions buildings, and new emission standards to eliminate onsite fossil fuel usage in federal buildings by 2030.
This strategic partnership will enable USGBC members to leverage these federal programmes by offering educational resources and discounted access to life-cycle assessment software tools.
www.oneclicklca.com
A one-stop-shop for renewable energy
With nearly 20 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, Go Geothermal is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of heat pumps and other renewable energy products such as underfloor heating and solar panels.
The company was set up by Executive Directors, Sean Sowden and Tim Williams, in 2006 and has grown to now employ 24 people split between its head office and warehouse in the north of England and commercial office and retail showroom in the Midlands.
Go Geothermal provides partnership ways of working with installers, contractors, housing developers, facility management companies and independent merchants, offering a ‘cradle to grave’ solution for all their renewable energy requirements, as they seek to move away from fossil fuel technology with net zero targets fast approaching.
Part of the CTC AB Group, the company offers a one-stop-shop for ground and air source heat pumps made by the world’s leadingedge companies in this field, including Mitsubishi, Vaillant and CTC.
Go Geothermal has exclusive rights to the CTC brand of heat pumps in the UK. CTC’s range of high-performance products have warmed homes effectively and efficiently and the company was the first to launch an air source heat pump back in 1985.
Darran Burrage, Go Geothermal’s Commercial Director, says, “We aim to source over 70% of our products from the UK and because we offer air and ground source heat pumps, underfloor heating and solar panels, it means we are full renewables distributor, with technical
“This is reflected by our company tagline which is ‘technology from the ground up’ as we literally are involved in all stages of the process.”
One of the company’s newest products is the CTC 700 Series, a ground-breaking air source heat pump which provides both heating and cooling and which uses R290 natural refrigerant to make it more environmentally friendly.
Darran added, “Over the last few months, Go Geothermal has expanded its sales team, as well as taking on a new digital marketing apprentice, with plans to grow the sales team further in the coming years and exploring new opportunities and products that can complement the current portfolio of renewable products.
“We also recently launched Go Green Academy, the UK’s first BPEC-accredited mobile training centre. In addition to two heat pump training centres in the North-East and Midlands, this means we able to take training on the road for those seeking to become heat pump installers.
“This is designed to provide flexible training opportunities across the country and encourage the industry to gain the skills needed to decarbonise homes and buildings in line with UK plans to become Net Zero by 2050.”
T 01388 720228
sales@gogeothermal.co.uk
www.gogeothermal.co.uk
Choose an award-winning Immigration Practice
In this issue of Business & Industry Today, we are pleased to feature ADBH Advisory Limited as our Bespoke Immigration Practice of the Month
Awarded the AE Advisory Excellence 2024 Award for Corporate Immigration, and the Best Boutique Immigration Law Firm 2024 – London in the SME News 2024 Business Elite Awards, in just three years ADBH has become one of the most highly-recommended immigrations practices to provide bespoke corporate immigrations solutions.
Established in 2021, the company was founded by Anna Bose who has over 25 years of experience in providing immigration solutions and strategies at the Home Office, in a Big 4 accountancy firm and for small businesses. Anna holds an LLB(Hons) in Business Law along with Solicitors Law Society Finals qualifications and is a member of ILPA (Immigration Legal Practitioners Association), IBA (International Bar Association), the London Chamber of Commerce and the AEA (Association of European Lawyers).
Anna, has also worked with boutique global immigration practices since 2012, where over the years she has been named the ‘gamekeeper’, the ‘poacher’, the client, and assignee. At ADBH, Anna partners with corporate clients to offer comprehensive support for UK visa and immigration compliance and applications. Her primary focus is on delivering strategic, practical solutions to help companies manage their immigration needs both in the UK and internationally. By working closely with partners, she also assists non-UK businesses and individuals in establishing a presence in the UK.
Based in the UK with offices in Suffolk and London, ADBH understands the complexities and pressures of the immigration process. Serving clients in over 60 countries, ADBH delivers straightforward immigration advice and partners closely with clients to provide
seamless, stress-free immigration legal services.
If you’re looking to expand your business globally, its vital that you comply with the correct procedures to avoid any raised penalties that could occur from noncompliance. Just think, if a key employee is stressed, preoccupied and unable to manage their immigration, they aren't productive in their work and will usually begin looking elsewhere. Non-compliance or inefficient immigration policies can cause disruption to operations, causing upset to clients and more.
One area that ADBH specialises in is Process and Policy Drafting. ADBH can ensure that you are compliant in immigration by drafting policies and processes for UK and other countries. This includes Internal Audits, Right to Work
processes, HMRC Business Visitor policies and reviews, and any other relevant processes.
“Right to Work and Sponsor Licence compliance has become increasingly more complicated. The guidance and rules are no longer just in one place, which can make it confusing. Ignorance is not a defence and the authorities are getting tougher on compliance,” added Anna.
From December 2020, the immigration rules stated that certain noncompliance can lead to losing the sponsor licence, refocussing the UK immigration authorities on ensuring compliance. ADBH can provide a full or partial audit to help with this issue on a regular or ad-hoc basis.
“We also assist companies in managing Visitor and Relocation Requirements efficiently. The UK Government has strict rules for Business Visitor applications but by using various tools – depending on the size of the population, we can help companies to stay compliant through our Business Visitor Assistance services. Using our experiences, we have found that the best way to help clients manage immigration and tracking, is simply to educate them alongside the use of technology,” said Anna.
Through an initial assessment, guidance on necessary supporting documentation, and assistance in preparing application forms and materials, ADBH ensures clients receive seamless, consistent service and support throughout the process.
If you require help with incorporation, tax, employment, insurance, recruitment, and other legal services, ADBH can help.
Contact M 07983 349404 https://adbhadvisory.com
Immigration Law Firm of the Month
Bespoke expert immigration
In this issue of Business & Industry Today, we are pleased to feature USB Immigration Consultants as our Immigration Law Firm of the Month
During 2024 (until March), there were 315,018 work visas granted to overseas workers, which was a 5% increase from 2023 and more than double pre-pandemic levels from 2019.
This is set to increase into 2025 with many UK companies needing to fill skills gaps across digital skills, cyber security, manufacturing to health and social care and many more sectors. The ‘end of free’ movement post-Brexit left many companies reeling and these companies are now looking into the sponsor licence system from the Home Office to employ foreign workers. This licence permits the business to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to the migrant worker, if all pre-existing conditions are met.
However, the bureaucracy can be overwhelming and this is where specialist OISC immigration law firms can really support.
USB Immigration Consultants helps navigate the complexities of sponsorship licences and supports companies to manage their SMS. The London-based team offers bespoke training to HR professionals, to assist with sponsorship licence management, as part of a comprehensive range of services.
We spoke to Uche Clarke, Founder, who told us more about the company.
“I, Uche Clarke, founded the company at the beginning of this year. With 20 years of experience as an Immigration Lawyer, I aspired to create my own OISC immigration firm that embodies my core values and delivers exceptional service to clients. We are based in London but serve clients across the UK and internationally, assisting those who wish to migrate or remain in the UK. We also travel nationwide to conduct Mock HR Compliance Audits for companies and offer remote services for clients who find it more convenient.”
USB Immigration Consultants specialise in three key areas: Visa Applications, Sponsor Licence Assistance, and Training. With extensive expertise and experience, they provide corporate clients with exceptional support, guiding them through the complexities of UK visa and sponsorship processes with unmatched proficiency.
“Our offerings include handling sponsorship licence applications, managing the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) post-licence approval, applying for Certificates of Sponsorship (COS), and assigning them to the individual workers the company wishes to sponsor. We also manage the Skilled Worker visa applications for these workers and any dependants. With 20 years of experience, we excel in delivering exceptional service to companies of all sizes.”
“Obtaining a Sponsorship Licence can be difficult and confusing. Without legal advice or assistance, companies risk having their applications rejected or refused due to missing documents, lack of awareness of HR requirements, or incorrectly completed forms. USB Immigration Consultants offer thorough advice and guidance through this process.
“It’s important for companies to ensure they submit all the necessary documentation and information. We help to complete and submit the required forms and legal representations as part of the application process. Additionally, we advise on the HR systems that should be in place before applying, to prepare for a pre-decision Home Office Compliance audit.”
However, if you work in HR, class yourself as an Immigration Practitioner, or a Business Owner who already has a Sponsorship Licence but is
seeking guidance and practical tips regarding Certificate of Sponsorships (COS) and the overall use of SMS, USB Immigration Consultants has an SMS Online Webinar that is perfect for you coming soon on 25 November 2024.
The online event titled ‘How to apply and assign a COS‘ will help you to discover how to apply for and allocate COS – both defined and undefined – on your sponsorship licence. The event will last for 90 minutes and will ensure that you’re choosing the right options, accurately drafting the correct content, and avoiding expensive mistakes. Additionally, the event will delve into other aspects of the Sponsorship Management System to assist you with the daily operation of the portal. Attendees will also receive a certificate of completion after the event.
Mrs Uche Clarke will be your trainer, an expert Immigration Lawyer who specialises in Corporate
immigration advice
and Personal Immigration. She is also a leading Immigration Trainer who regularly trains Business owners, Entrepreneurs, as well as Managers and HR individuals at companies with sponsorship licences, universities and fellow legal professionals.
Register now to secure your spot! How to apply and assign a COS and tips to manage your SMS Tickets, Mon, Nov 25, 2024 at 12:00 PM | Eventbrite
USB Immigration Consultants’ goal is to provide a seamless and stress-free experience, leveraging their expertise to navigate the complexities of immigration law effectively. We asked Uche how does she approach complex, bespoke immigration cases.
“We approach complex, bespoke immigration cases with a tailored and meticulous strategy. We begin with an in-depth consultation to fully understand the unique aspects of the case and our client’s specific needs and objectives. We then conduct a thorough review of the client’s situation, including an analysis of all relevant documents and information. Based on our assessment, we craft a personalised plan that outlines the best course of action and details
the necessary steps to achieve the desired outcome. Throughout the process, we provide expert guidance and support, ensuring all legal requirements are met and keeping the client wellinformed at every stage. We represent our clients in all interactions with immigration authorities, advocating on their behalf to secure the best possible result. Finally, we provide ongoing support even after the initial case is resolved. This is to address any future immigration needs or challenges.”
USB Immigration Consultants recognise the importance of empowering their clients and fellow legal professionals with knowledge and understanding of the immigration system. This is why the company has developed Expert Training Programs that cater to the specific needs of businesses and individuals.
“We offer bespoke training to companies that have a sponsorship licence that require training
to ensure that are and remain compliant –training includes HR sponsorship compliance, right-to-work checks, and navigating the SMS. As well as immigration topics such as FM Appendix, naturalisation, and innovator founder/ self-sponsorship. We will also endeavour to offer training courses whenever the Home Office releases a substantive statement of changes to the immigration rules,” added Uche.
Recently, The Home Office has set out some new measures to help reduce net migration, announcing that, “Rules around visa sponsorship of migrant workers will also be strengthened so that strong action can be taken against employers who flout employment laws, restricting their ability to hire workers from abroad. This is in addition to work already underway to clamp down on existing sponsor licence holders and to stop visa abuse, such as the ramping up of investigation visits by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and suspending and revoking licenses where employers abuse the immigration system and exploit migrant workers.”
In response to a question about the trends and regulatory shifts impacting business immigration, Uche highlighted the recent announcement and elaborated on its implications with the following insights, “Our immediate and near-future focus is to provide all the mentioned services to help businesses become and remain compliant, with a particular emphasis on Training and Mock HR Compliance Audits. This ensures that if any of our clients are visited or investigated by the Home Office, they are well-prepared and compliant.”
If you’re in need of expert immigration advice, please get in touch below.
M 07534 655037 contact@usbimmigration.com https://usbimmigration.com
Hillhead 2024: Unparalleled success
Attracting more than 19,500 trade visitors and featuring an impressive 598 exhibitors across three show days, Hillhead 2024 – the biggest working quarrying exhibition on the planet – once again raised the ante, showcasing a plethora of new products, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative trends that promise to shape the future of the industry.
Hillhead 2024 is over for another year, but there is no denying that the biennial quarrying industry extravaganza once again delivered its trademark combination of exciting new product/service launches, countless technological innovations, and more live plant/ equipment demonstrations than ever. This year’s hotly anticipated event – held from 25-27 June at Tarmac’s Hillhead Quarry, near Buxton, Derbyshire – proved to be a huge success on all counts and underlined its status as the UK’s (and perhaps even the world’s) biggest live demonstration trade show for the quarrying, construction and recycling industries.
Building on the momentum of the hugely successful 2022 exhibition, Hillhead 2024 was the most visited
edition ever in terms of the volume of visits over the three days, with visitors spending more time at the show than ever before and a record number attending for more than one day. In total there were a staggering 26,626 visits over the three days – marking an 8% increase over the 2022 edition. In terms of unique visitors, with 19,577 attendees from 67 countries (+6.2% compared with 2022) this year’s edition had the second highest ever number of trade visitors (only 2018 was higher at 19,753, although that show had less volume over the three days). Hillhead 2024 also recorded the event’s busiest ever show day in its 42 year history, with almost 10,800 visitors attending on day two.
Put simply, there is no trade show quite like it in the world. With every square metre of exhibition space – including an extended Showground Pavilion – fully booked and occupied, and a record number of machines taking part in four live demonstration areas around the quarry, not to mention a host of site improvements (eg. additional catering areas, more car parking spaces, new hydration stations, etc), Hillhead 2024 was bigger, better, and busier than ever before.
Commenting on this year’s show, event director, Richard Bradbury, said, “With the sun shining and visitors spending more time at the show than ever before, it was fantastic to see Hillhead continuing to break new attendance records. It’s an exciting time for the industry as digitalisation, automation, and decarbonisation continue to drive change within the quarrying, construction, and recycling sectors, and this was represented by the scale and quality of the 600 or so companies that exhibited. But my abiding memory of Hillhead 2024 is of the unique ‘human’ platform it provided for buyers and sellers to engage – to feel, touch, and interact with the products on show, and, of course, to catch up with colleagues and network with the wider industry.”
Hillhead returns in two years’ time to Buxton’s Hillhead Quarry from 23-25 June 2026. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Barford Equipment Ltd, G&M Radiator, Marine & Industrial Transmissions, perma-tec & Wirtgen Group. Further details can be found on this page and the next two.
www.hillhead.com
Barford Equipment Ltd
Barford Equipment Ltd is an industry-leading manufacturer of mobile screening and materials handling equipment. With a history dating back to 1840 as Barford and Perkins, the company has a long pedigree in the manufacturing sector and with an extensive growing global dealer network across Europe, North America, Asia and Australasia, offers unparalleled products and services.
Barford exhibited at the iconic Hillhead 2024 from 25-27 June at Hillhead Quarry, Buxton. Hillhead is renowned for live machinery demonstrations and Barford brought along the impressive 750J Tracked Dual Power Jaw Crusher and the R6536TR Tracked Stockpile Conveyor.
The Jaw Crusher measures 700 x 500 (28” x 20”), with outstanding features such as a reversible jaw, 88Kva diesel generator, also operational as mains plug in. This vibrating grizzly feeder is a hardox lined hopper, with feed sensor (auto feed system) and has a
radio remote for feeder stop/start. At a weight of 19,000kg, this is designed to fit into a 40ft container and has options for fines belt on 180° swivel, and dust suppression on site.
The radial Stockpile Conveyor measures 65ft x 36”, with masterful hydraulic drive slewing wheels, crawler tracks at feed hopper, and rubber lined feed hopper. With a hydraulic raise/lower, this conveyor has galvanised inner telescopic legs and galvanised roller guards with a category 2.2 engine.
To enquire about all equipment, including used machinery or to become a dealer, see the website below: https://barford.com
Celebrating 50 years of innovation in driveline solutions
At the recent Hillhead Show, MIT proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of excellence in delivering top-tier driveline solutions for OEM machinery manufacturers in the off-highway and industrial sectors, including quarrying, mining, recycling, and construction. This milestone event highlighted MIT’s unwavering commitment to innovation and its role in enhancing operational efficiency and reliability in demanding environments.
MIT excels in managing supply lines and ensuring seamless integration for OEMs, complemented by tailored aftermarket services, maintenance, and parts supply. This approach extends the lifecycle of machinery beyond its warranty, providing essential support through repair and overhaul capabilities for specialised off-highway vehicles.
In collaboration with renowned brands such as Twin Disc, Transfluid, Reich, and ZF, MIT offers OEM-
approved servicing for all driveline components, including engines, transmissions, differentials, and axles. Whether for emergency repairs or routine maintenance, MIT’s skilled engineers are equipped to assist both on-site and at their specialist workshop.
MIT’s presence at Hillhead 2024 underscored its dedication to supporting OEM manufacturers and end users in achieving their operational goals.
For more information on MIT’s innovative driveline solutions and aftermarket capabilities, visit: www.mitgroup.co.uk
G&M Radiator: 60 years of cooling
G&M Radiator was founded in 1964 and is still a privately owned family business. In recent years, prudent acquisitions have resulted in the G&M Group which consists of several companies working in different fields of the Heat Exchange Industry. The combined expertise and strengths of each company has established the G&M Group at the forefront of this market.
G&M Radiator manufacture using copper/brass, non-ferrous and aluminium materials. The manufacturing facility can accommodate both large and small production runs. The workforce is highly skilled, experienced and adaptable with many having over 25 years’ service with the Company.
We supplement our range of manufactured product with a large and varied stock of radiators, oil-coolers and other heat exchange products which we source from leading high-quality suppliers across the globe.
From receipt of an original sample heat exchanger, we can have our version drawn up & manufactured and a finished unit ready to ship in as little as 4 working days. This short development time means we are constantly adding to the huge range in our extensive catalogue.
Designs and drawings are created in-house using the latest CAD/
CAM software which allows a short development process for new projects. Our on-site wind tunnel ensures new designs can be quickly confirmed and tailored to the client’s requirements.
Our production process uses the very latest metal punching and forming technology and equipment as well as traditional presses. This equipment is maintained by a dedicated team of in-house engineers and craftsmen. The ability to produce our own unique tooling is a huge advantage and one that we are rightly proud of.
The Company has long been an advocate of documented process controls and as such has operated to an accredited ISO Quality System for many years.
T 0800 690 6143 sales@gm-radiator.com www.gm-radiator.com
Hillhead Review – Top Exhibitors
perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE automatic Lubrication System
The new generation with long range wireless connection
Large-scale operations pose a special challenge when it comes to maintenance. The perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE automatic Lubrication System provides an effective solution to this problem.
The new perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE has been specifically designed for use in extensive facilities and is ideally suited for this purpose. This product innovation combines the functionality of the perma STAR VARIO with the advantages of LoRa®WAN wireless technology, elevating automated lubrication to a new level.
Connecting without boundaries
Equipped with integrated LoRa® WAN communication technology, perma products are redefining industry standards for remote control. Using the Gateway LONG RANGE, up to 2000 perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE lubrication systems at a single site can now be centrally managed. It enables convenient remote monitoring and control over distances of up to 2km. The signal strength, stability and security of the wireless connection ensures a highly reliable and almost unlimited connectivity.
The system consistently transmits updates to the perma CONNECT app, providing essential information such as operational status, timestamps, ambient temperature, and the fill level of the STAR VARIO LC. This functionality not only saves valuable time but also enhances efficiency, productivity, and workplace safety.
The perma SERVICES offer: Support during every step of the way The perma SERVICES team consists of highly qualified professionals who support you from the very start of the project. It’s responsible for lubrication system surveys, assessing the optimal location for the Gateway LONG RANGE, and verifying network coverage. The Gateway LONG RANGE is delivered pre-configured and fully operational. The service offering also includes system installation, onboarding of the perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE lubrication systems, instructions and user trainings for perma CONNECT, and comprehensive application training for the entire system. perma is dedicated to ensuring the successful realisation of every project.
perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE operates fully automatically, independent of temperature and pressure with a very precise discharge. The system consists of an electromechanical drive, a LC (Lubricant Cardrige) with 60, 120, 250 or 500cm3 lubricant and a battery pack.
perma STAR VARIO LONG RANGE provides pressure build-up of 7.5bar. The lubrication system is used for single-point lubrication of roller and sliding bearings, sliding guides, open gears, gear racks, spindles, shaft seals and chains and is ideal for lubricating electric motors with specified lubricant quantities thanks to extremely precise lubricant metering. Thanks to LoRa® wireless technology, up to 2,000 lubrication systems in a facility can be conveniently managed via perma CONNECT over a distance of up to 2km, using the Gateway LONG RANGE.
Visit: www.perma-tec.com to learn more about perma products.
Kleemann Mobile Impact Crusher MOBIREX MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe
The new efficient NEO line compact class from Kleemann
With the mobile impact crusher MOBIREX MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe, Kleemann presents the first family member of the new NEO line. The machine is efficient, powerful and extremely flexible – and allelectric operation is possible with the NEOe variant.
Flexibility for the widest range of applications
Thanks to their compact dimensions and a low transport weight, the MOBIREX MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe can be used flexibly, quickly and in a very wide variety of applications. Operation in tight spaces on work sites or in frequently changing places of work is easily possible. Operation ranges from different recycling applications, such as the processing of concrete, rubble and asphalt, to the processing of soft to medium-hard natural stone.
Sustainable solutions protect operators and the environment
The new impact crusher from Kleemann is available with two versions: Depending on the application area, it can be run all-electrically with the drive concept E-DRIVE and thus, locally, free of CO2 emissions [MR 100(i) NEOe]. Alternatively, the machine is available with the tried-and-tested diesel-direct drive D-DRIVE.
Very high final product quality
Very high product quality is expected from an impact crusher, and this is precisely what the MOBIREX MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe delivers. This is guaranteed not only by the powerful crushing unit with its 4-ledged rotor with a large impact range and versatile rotor ledge options, but also by the 4m2 large, optional, single-deck secondary screening unit. This makes it possible to produce a classified final grain size. Through the use of an optional wind sifter, the final product quality can be additionally increased.
Simple plant operation
Thanks to a SPECTIVE operating unit specially tuned to the functions, operation of the MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe is simple and intuitive. With SPECTIVE CONNECT, operators have all relevant data on
speed, consumption values and fill levels at their fingertips on a smartphone or tablet and prepared in a clearly arranged manner. SPECTIVE CONNECT also offers detailed troubleshooting aids to assist with service and maintenance. A unique feature in this machine class is the fully automatic crusher gap adjustment and zero-point determination. Zeropoint determination compensates for wear during crusher start and a homogeneous crushing product is retained.
Businesses can attract people back into the office – if the offer is right
Free food, free drinks and social gatherings can be effective in enticing workers back into the office, a new survey has revealed.
While 78% of respondents still want an element of flexibility in their working week, free food, free drinks and more social events could be key to drawing people back to more traditional ways of working in the wake of the pandemic.
The online poll, by recruitment firm Pertemps, showed 12% of respondents said free food could help convince them to change their working habits to be based in the office. 1% of participants indicated free tea and coffee would be enough for them to ditch remote working, while social events emerged as a more compelling factor,
with 9% saying they would consider returning for regular gatherings.
Tracy Evans, Group HR and Quality Director at Pertemps, said, “Social interactions, team bonding and incentives like food and drink clearly can have an impact on the inclination of people to return to the office.
“An element of flexibility remains important to many, but it is interesting that just small changes in culture could be the key to encouraging people back into an office environment where there are many advantages for people and businesses.
“These findings carry important implications for employers seeking to optimise their workforce strategies
Family friction isn’t holding back UK businesses
Family friction is not holding back the financial success of the UK’s largest family-run businesses which are seeing strong growth in profit margins while keeping costs under control, new research with family-run businesses from wealth manager, Investec Wealth & Investment (UK), shows.
The independent study by the company, which is part of Rathbones Group PLC, with family businesses which have an average annual turnover of £7.81 million found conflicts over entitlements and individual opinions are very common.
Around four out of five (79%) of the family-run businesses across a wide range of sectors say their firm has suffered from family infighting in the past five years with 35% admitting it happens a lot. Less than one in five (18%) say there has been no conflict.
The bust-ups are not driven by intergenerational squabbling – around 92% questioned say there is a good or even excellent level of agreement between the different generations over how the business is run.
Any family friction there is does not affect financial performance, the study shows. Around 91% say profit margins at the family business have increased in the past two years with nearly one in five (18%) saying profit margins have increased by 30% or more over the period.
Financial health of family-run businesses is generally strong – around one in eight (12%) described it as excellent and 63% as good with a quarter (25%) saying the financial health of their firm is average. The study identified a strong focus on cost control – around 89% described their firm as frugal.
www.investec.com
New government must tackle urgent skills gap, says NCUB
New data released recently shows the number of people in work has dropped. The number of people unemployed in the UK rose by 138,000 in the three months to April amid growing signs of a weaker jobs market and the unemployment rate rose to 4.4%.
Rosalind Gill, Head of Policy and Engagement at the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB), said, “Today’s newly released labour market statistics paints a very worrying picture and hammers home the uphill battle that the new Government will face. New data reveals that 3.2 million people are out of work but want a job, and that the unemployment rate rose to 4.4%.”
Gill concluded, “As the new government takes office, it’s vital that they implement a cohesive plan that involves educational institutions, businesses, and policymakers
to equip our workforce with the skills needed for today’s economy. As technology quickly advances, the labour market is transforming at pace and the skills gaps will only become more acute. Failure to address these issues now risks further economic stagnation and missed opportunities for growth.”
The National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) represents a collective voice of leaders across higher education and business and aims to tackle issues of shared interest. The NCUB is an independent and not-for-profit membership organisation that promotes, develops and supports university-business collaboration across the UK. The organisation was originally established in 1986, and NCUB was formed in 2013.
www.ncub.co.uk
Women in manufacturing suffering
New data from affordable healthcare provider, Benenden Health, has revealed that four in ten business owners in the manufacturing sector aren't confident supporting women’s health issues at work, exacerbating existing wellbeing concerns and negatively impacting on careers.
In addition to 39% admitting their shortcomings when it comes to supporting their female employees, a further 44% revealed that they don’t understand women’s health issues in the first place, making effective support difficult and causing a detrimental effect to both women’s wellbeing and business performance.
Half of business owners in the sector also revealed that they believe women are more difficult to manage than men because of their health issues, highlighting a stigma against women in the workplace that can negatively impact their career development.
Nationally, across all sectors, as many as 40% of women believe their professional career has been negatively impacted due to a lack of support and understanding around women’s health issues in the workplace and only 12% of businesses have a culture where women’s health issues can be talked about.
Benenden Health’s research also found that a quarter of business owners in the sector (24%) have heard derogatory comments about a female employee’s health in the workplace, often around them taking time off work, being difficult to work with or not able to do their job properly, creating a harmful culture and making women reluctant to discuss their health issues in the workplace.
www.benenden.co.uk/gender-health-gap-2024
Advancing trenchless technology together
No-Dig Live, the world’s largest and most highly regarded trenchless technology event, is the must attend event in the installation or refurbishment of underground utilities including underground infrastructure and pipelining.
No-Dig Live is the only event in the UK where manufacturers and suppliers can display and demonstrate products in a working environment to an audience which is truly focused on trenchless technology.
This flagship event combines a world-class exhibition and unrivalled conference programme and is internationally recognised for bringing together innovators and thought leaders from across the trenchless sector. In doing so, it provides a perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase products
and services to senior representatives from across the UK and global utilities markets.
Commenting on the launch of No-Dig Live 2024, Westrade’s Managing Director, Paul Harwood said, “No-Dig Live has always been dedicated to promoting innovation, sharing knowledge and fostering collaborations and this year’s event at this amazing newly refurbed venue was no exception. With senior decision makers from across the utilities sector enjoying a diverse range of activities, including technical sessions, live demonstrations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, this really was the must attend event for anyone wanting to build their brand and grow their business in the UK, European and international trenchless markets.”
No-Dig Live 2024 was even more spectacular as the event returned to recently refurbished NAEC in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire from 1-3 October 2024. The NAEC enabled the event to continue
to grow and offers some of the most sought-after exhibition space anywhere in the UK. With over 250 acres of outside space for larger equipment and live demos as well as three state-of-the-art exhibition halls covering just over 10,000m2 there really was something for everyone!
No-Dig Live 2024, as always, included the much loved and brilliantly well attended UKSTT Gala Dinner and Annual Awards. This glamourous event, which combined fantastic entertainment and high-level networking opportunities, and showcased the very best innovation and excellence from across the UK trenchless sector was held on 2 October 2024. On arrival, guests enjoyed a champagne reception before sitting down to enjoy a lavish 3 course meal, spectacular live entertainment and much more!
No-Dig Live will return in two years’ time. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s show, listed here in alphabetical order: Neo Air Systems, ProKASRO Mechatronik & SlimDril. Further details can be found on this page and the next.
https://nodiglive.co.uk
No-Dig Live 2024 Review – Top Exhibitors
Neo Air Ltd: Revolutionising air excavation with battery-powered precision and safety
Introducing Neoair, a groundbreaking batterypowered excavation system specifically designed for safe, precise & efficient air digging. Neoair's advanced technology uses air power for excavation, making it an ideal solution for utilities, construction, arboriculture and more.
Neoair is a complete system that combines an air lance with a continuous-flow vacuum, providing air power for precise soil removal on buried utilities or delicate buried objects, reducing the risk of costly repairs or accidental damage. With Neoair, users gain an eco-friendly, portable and highly manoeuvrable excavation system that offers unparalleled precision and safe operation.
Unveiled at the recent No-Dig Live 2024 event, Neoair was overwhelmed with interest from industries with varying requirements.
Neo Air Systems’ Business Development & Sales, Didar Singh Sanghera (pictured left), comments on the successes following the event, “Introducing Neoair at No-Dig Live was an unforgettable experience for our team. We were genuinely impressed by the high level of interest and the forward-thinking discussions we had with visitors at our stand about the Neoair unit.
“We received interest from professionals in
ProKASRO: Your fullrange supplier for trenchless technology
No-Dig Live 2024 took place at the NAEC Stoneleigh from the 1st-3rd October. The industry-leading event is unique across the sector, in that it is the only one in the UK where exhibitors can demonstrate trenchless technology in a working environment.
ProKASRO Mechatronik GmbH is a renowned supplier for sewer rehabilitation equipment and exhibited its cuttingedge KASRO technology during the three-day event.
The range of KASRO Working Robots are specifically designed to work in sewer pipes and was founded in 2000. The robots execute damage diagnosis and repairs in differing pipe diameters from DN 100 to DN 1200.
The electric, pneumatic or hydraulic robots carry a camera video signal, which is seamlessly transmitted to the workstation monitor – allowing
surveillance by the working engineering team. The sewer robots have a range of attachments to enable a wide range of tasks such as: milling, grinding, moulding, filling and injections.
ProKASRO is also the market leader within the field of UV curing Technology. To operate the installation of CIPP pipe liners ProKASRO produces UV curing systems since 2003. The use of specially designed UV lamps and their shadow free positioning facilitates trouble free liner installations in the sewer from DN 100 to DN 2000. The process is monitored by the operator via the heat-resistant camera located within the UV light core. Infrared sensors on the UV light core transmit laminate curing temperatures to the operator.
To find out more today, speak to ProKASRO today: www.prokasro.de/en
utilities, construction, and arboriculture, with a strong focus on the advantages of air power. Neoair’s air vacuum technology significantly reduces the risk of accidental cable strikes, which is a growing concern in both the UK and globally. Health and safety are priorities in these industries, and Neoair directly addresses these needs.
“Neoair stands out due to its compact, portable size and its ability to handle not only Type 1 terrain but also to extract water with ease. Many professionals were pleased to learn that we designed Neoair with sustainability in mind, featuring a battery-powered system that minimises its environmental impact.
“Our roadmap for Neo Air Systems focuses on prioritising sustainability in our product range and staying vigilant about health and safety requirements within our industries. By doing so, we aim to serve our end users more effectively and responsibly.
“The positive feedback and enthusiasm from the event strengthen Neoair’s position as more than just a digging tool – it’s an essential, innovative excavation solution built for the future.”
Contact Neo Air Ltd today to discuss your unique excavation needs and explore how Neoair can enhance your project. For more information, please contact: www.neoairltd.com
MuDD-Dry: showcased at No-Dig Live 2024
Across the HDD industry, site slurry poses a dilemma: how do you safely dispose of it and transport it?
The team from SlimDril were on hand at No Dig Live 2024 to showcase MUDD-Dry: a new onsite solidification solution to solidify liquid waste for optimised transportation and disposal.
SlimDril is the UK and Europe sole distributor for MUDD-Dry, which offers many benefits to end-users:
● Fast – rapidly converts liquid/ semi-solid waste streams to a solid (in less than 30 minutes)
● Compatible – works well with bulk mixing applications
● Practical – forms a dry, stackable solid for easy handling
● Cost-effective – can be used in clean fill applications significantly reducing disposal costs (more cost-effective than cement)
● Disposal – Landfill friendly
● Flexible – suitable for manually mixing in small or large batches
● Greener – prevents leaching, no adverse impact on pH and soil microbials.
MUDD-DRY is an ultra-absorbent polymer – designed to solidify selflevelling slurries and liquid waste at source, thereby quickly creating a stackable material that can be transported in tippers for reuse or to regular landfill sites.
It can be used in a range of applications including: tunnelling/ micro-tunnelling, hydro excavation, HDD, stormwater ponds, agriculture and many more.
To find out more about the industrial benefits of MUDD-DRY, see the website below: https://slimdril.com/mudd-dry
Lots of interest on the Neoair stand at No-Dig Live
Significant uplift in pallet re-use drives supply chain sustainability gains
Preliminary results of the latest wooden pallet and packaging market report have confirmed the ongoing trend for reuse among manufacturers, retailers, and other businesses.
The findings of the 2023 edition of the annual survey, which is jointly commissioned by the Timber Packaging & Packaging Confederation (TIMCON) and Forest Research, showed repair and reuse of wooden pallets during the year was up 10.6% on the previous 12 months, accounting for an estimated total of 54.1 million pallets over the period.
The report showed an estimated total of 41.7m pallets were manufactured last year, a decrease of 7.9% on last year’s 45.3m.
TIMCON President, John Dye, said, “These results show an important trend towards reuse, highlighting the growing importance businesses are placing on maximising the lifespan of products and all-round sustainability. It’s also a reminder that the repairability, reusability, and recyclability of wooden pallets makes them one of the cornerstones for developing truly circular supply chains.
“In parallel, the report also confirms the decrease we expected in pallet manufacturing during 2023. These figures support TIMCON’s contribution to the PackFlow report and on-going dialogue with Defra regarding the implementation of a government reuse incentive scheme for wooden packaging materials.”
Report author, Guy Watt of John Clegg Consulting presented the results of the market survey to a TIMCON meeting at The George InterContinental hotel in
forecast shortfall of timber by the 2040s. This, against projected growth in demand of 78% to 2050, could create “a timber security issue,” he said.
members and affiliate members, and speakers from across the domestic and overseas forest-based industries and related sectors.
The meeting opened with a video address by MSP Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands. She stressed her support for the industry, “Because it is part of the sustainable powerhouse that is Scottish forestry,” adding that wooden pallets and packaging is a “great example of a sustainable, reuseable product.”
Her address was followed by Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of CONFOR UK, who spoke about the current opportunities and challenges in UK forestry, including a
Adhesives & glue guns
AdCo UK is one of the largest manufactures of shaped hotmelt adhesives and water-based adhesives for use in packaging and product assembly markets for over 21 years, from its Head Office and manufacturing facility in Liphook Hampshire with additional distribution facilities based in Leeds UK and a network of approved distributors based throughout the UK.
As well as supplying adhesives for all requirements, AdCo supplies a wide range of specialist applicators – from ProFlex industrial, heavy duty and professional glue guns to total melt, cartridge and bulk systems, we also manufacture and supply UF resins, PVA Adhesives, PU Adhesives, Tapes and much more
As part of our commitment to offer our customers the correct
solution for their needs AdCo are continually investing in research and development along with new state of the art manufacturing equipment to ensure we continue to meet the ever changing needs of all types of industry.
Thanks to our unrivalled knowledge of adhesives and application techniques, our highly skilled technicians can offer a ‘find and supply’ service to all our customers.
With a combined industry experience of over 120 years, our technicians can ensure that any bonding problem can be solved quickly and efficiently.
Contact T 01428 751755 enquiries@adco.co.uk www.adco.co.uk
FEFPEB’s Secretary General Fons Ceelaert presented developments in the European pallet and packaging sectors, including an update on European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR). He said the timber industry is lobbying to delay the implementation of the new rules, and, in the interim, stressed the importance of having data, advising that pallet and packaging businesses should get as much information from their wood suppliers as possible.
President, John Dye, said, “Over many years, TIMCON has fostered strong working relationships with other wood-based sectors. As our Edinburgh AGM and networking events showed, collaboration between the pallet and packaging industry, other industries, and associated businesses, is at an all-time high.”
Contact
T +44 (0)116 274 7357 info@timcon.org https://timcon.org
Edinburgh, which was attended by TIMCON
Left to right: Marcus Kirschner, HPE; Stuart Goodall, CONFOR; TIMCON President, John Dye; FEFPEB Secretary General, Fons Ceelaert; Paul Tait, NAPD; and TIMCON Secretary General, Stuart Hex
TIMCON President, John Dye, addresses the dinner on board the Royal Yacht Britannia
