InBusiness Burnley - Issue 26, November 2025

Building on solid foundations pg28

Lessons in leadership pg52

Local business supports academy transport pg19

InBusinessBurnley

Welcome from the editor

Aswe reach the end of another incredible year for Burnley, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on just how much is happening across our borough. From The Royal Dyche popping up all the way in Kansas to award-winning local businesses and collaborations with world-renowned retailers, the past six months have been nothing short of inspiring.

In this issue, our In Focus section shines a spotlight on leadership, with insights from two exceptional figures. Katy Leeson, former managing director of Social Chain, joined Burnley Bondholders to deliver an inspiring session on authentic leadership and purpose. Meanwhile, former Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan is now sharing lessons from the very top of professional sport through his leadership programmes at Whitehough Outdoor Centre. Both show that great leadership takes many forms, always rooted in passion, resilience and a drive to inspire others.

Speaking of leaders, the second cohort of Future Leaders recently graduated. The participants poured real heart and creativity into their personal projects, from raising awareness of mental health and encouraging open conversation, to supporting two local charities: Pendleside Hospice and The Participation Works.

Elsewhere in the magazine, we celebrate Burnley businesses continuing to thrive, including M.Tracey Building Contractors, marking 35 years in business and still going strong. We also highlight tech innovator Gener8 Spaces, whose immersive learning spaces are growing in popularity in both the UK and US.

As always, this issue captures just a glimpse of the incredible things happening across Burnley. For more stories, visit Burnley.co.uk and follow us on social media for the latest updates. And if you have a story to share, I’d love to hear from you.

Here’s to celebrating our achievements, supporting one another, and shining a spotlight on our brilliant borough.

Katie McGee Editor kmcgee@burnley.gov.uk

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38 The family business working with Tesla and Warburtons

53 Lessons in leadership

The Royal Dyche heads to Kansas

Born in Burnley: Built for the world

Be part of it! & sign up! Celebrating our past, present, + future. Our town, our time.

BURNLEY GOES GLOBAL: The Royal Dyche head to Kansas City

Over 9,000 football fans descended on Kansas City, Missouri, for Premier League Mornings Live, a two-day fan festival. At the heart of the action was The Royal Dyche, a pop-up pub experience bringing a slice of Clarets life and Burnley’s heritage to thousands in the Power & Light District. Visitors were treated to a true taste of the town, from the decor inspired by Burnley memorabilia to the famous local drink Bene’n’hot poured

by The Royal Dyche landlady, Justine Bedford. Fans were also able to experience a virtual glimpse of Turf Moor courtesy of Rezzil and pose for selfies with club mascot Bertie Bee.

Reflecting on the experience, Justine said:

“I was honoured to be invited by Burnley Football Club to represent the club at the Premier League Mornings Live event in Kansas City. Our pop-up Royal Dyche bar was a huge success, and it was an incredible feeling

bringing a piece of Burnley across the pond. One of the best parts was meeting so many Clarets fans who had travelled from across so many different states to see our setup.”

Adding a clever twist to the fan experience, Burnley.co.uk sent dual-branded beer mats to the event, giving American fans the chance to explore more about the borough. By scanning the QR codes, visitors could find out more about what it’s like to live, work and play in the borough.

The pub also hosted Burnley’s Premier League pub quiz, with a grand prize of a trip to the UK to watch a match at Turf Moor and visit The Royal Dyche itself. Emily, a Clarets supporter from Missouri, was the lucky winner and will be heading to Burnley later this season.

The festival demonstrated the global appeal of Burnley, not just as a football club, but as a borough with a unique identity, culture, and story to share.

Ireland’s leading solar firm Activ8 Energies powers up for UK expansion with Low Carbon Energy deal

Ireland’s leading solar panel provider Activ8 Energies, has acquired solar firm Low Carbon Energy (LCE) as it reveals ambitious plans to expand across the UK renewables sector.

The move for the Burnley-based firm comes as Activ8 eyes more UK commercial infrastructure projects following recent work on a £3 million solar farm at John Lennon Airport in Liverpool. The new installation, which goes live next month, will provide 25% of the airport’s electricity.

Activ8, which is 50% owned by SSE Airtricity, an Irish subsidiary of SSE, is planning to double turnover and installed solar capacity over the next few years as it sets its sights on expanding beyond Ireland and becoming the biggest commercial and industrial renewable energy provider in the UK.

“This acquisition marks a transformative moment for Activ8 as we accelerate our UK growth ambitions,” said Ciarán Marron, CEO of Activ8 Solar Energies. “By combining the strengths of Activ8 and Low Carbon Energy, we’re better equipped than ever to deliver innovative, large-scale energy solutions for clients seeking sustainable energy security.”

Founded in 2009 by Ged and Maura Ennis, LCE has built a strong reputation within

the solar sector and worked across more than 300 sites nationwide, delivering more than 60MW of installed solar capacity. The company’s client portfolio includes BMW, Porsche, Co-op, Boeing, Drax Power, Tata Steel, Wickes, United Utilities, and the NHS.

“Low Carbon Energy’s impressive track record, technical capability, and prestigious client base complement our vision perfectly, added Marron. “Together, we’re poised to scale nationwide and play a central role in supporting the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy.”

As part of the deal, Activ8 has acquired 100% of LCE’s shareholding. Benedict Ennis will continue to lead the business as managing director, while founder Ged Ennis will remain as a non-executive director, providing strategic guidance as the business enters its next phase of growth.

Benedict Ennis, managing director of Low Carbon Energy, commented: “This partnership is an exciting step forward for everyone at LCE. Activ8’s track record and market leadership will allow us to build on our foundations, expand our team, and deliver more projects at greater scale, nationwide. Our clients will benefit from our enhanced

capacity and a shared commitment to quality, innovation, and customer focus.”

Low Carbon Energy will continue operating under its existing brand in the near term, ensuring continuity for its existing customers while benefiting from Activ8’s resources and scale. Both teams are focused on an ambitious pipeline of projects across key industrial and commercial sectors.

Jon Kirby, head of development at SSE, commented: “At SSE, we’re committed to helping businesses on their decarbonisation journey and achieve long-term energy security. This partnership between Activ8 Solar Energies and Low Carbon Energy represents an exciting milestone, bringing together expertise and years of delivery experience in renewable projects.”

The UK’s solar sector is going from strength-to-strength thanks in part to the popularity of power purchase agreements. The funding model, which allows companies to install solar at no cost, has become an important lever in rolling out solar generation in commercial and industrial sites nationwide, helping the UK to meet UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The North-West (and Burnley!) are manufacturing powerhouses

The North-West has shown its economic clout once again when it comes to its manufacturing sector.

Manufacturing output in the region grew by ten per cent in 2024, an increase of a fifth from pre-2020 levels, a new report from Make UK has revealed. We already know Burnley is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to manufacturing and engineering, delivering 6,000 jobs to the borough.

The Make UK/BDO Annual Regional Manufacturing Outlook report shows that the manufacturing sector in the North-West contributes 335,000 highly skilled jobs,

which is almost ten per cent of the region’s employment overall. The aerospace sector in particular has been highlighted as a driving force. In Burnley, our central location means we are a key part of the region’s aerospace cluster, with companies here including HycAero, Safran, Pursuit Aerospace, BCW Group and Velocity Composites.

“The impact of the pandemic on the manufacturing sector can’t be understated. Having battled grounded flights, reduced demand and disrupted supply chains, to see manufacturing bounce back with such renewed force is a testament to the industry’s

Meet. Eat. Connect.

resilience and the strength of the regions they are working in,” commented Richard Austin, head of manufacturing at BDO.

Burnley is also proud to host renowned advanced manufacturing companies such as AMS Neve, VEKA plc and BCW Engineering. We have a 37-acre engineering and aerospace hub at Innovation Drive and The University of Lancashire is in the UK top 20 for aerospace and aeronautical engineering. Our convenient transport and logistics networks mean we also have a solid automotive sector, with names including Fort Vale Engineering and Futaba Manufacturing.

The HAPPA Café and Meeting Rooms offer the perfect blend of business and tranquillity. Whether you’re meeting clients, running a workshop, or simply enjoying a working lunch, our friendly team will make sure everything runs seamlessly. Enjoy delicious food from our Café, free parking and stunning views, all while helping support HAPPA’s vital equine welfare work.

The HAPPA Cafe, Shores Hey Farm, Black House Lane, O Halifax Road, Briercli e, Burnley, BB10 3QU.

Advance Point business park fully complete

Barnfield Contractors UK Ltd, part of the Barnfield Group, has announced the completion of Advance Point Business Park on Rossendale Road, Burnley.

All units are now available for immediate occupancy, marking a significant milestone in the regeneration and commercial development of the area.

Following the first successful sale in April 2025, the remaining high-quality, BREEAM Very Good-rated industrial and workshop units, ranging from approximately 2,490 sq ft, are now complete and ready for occupation. Strategically located near junctions 9 and 10 of the M65, Advance Point offers exceptional accessibility, ideal for manufacturing, light industrial, logistics, and distribution businesses.

Key highlights of Advance Point:

• 22 units available from around 2,490 sq ft, offering flexibility for businesses to fit out according to their operational needs

• Built to BREEAM Very Good and EPC B standards, ensuring sustainability, efficiency, and modern design

• Excellent connectivity via the M65, enhancing regional logistics and supply chain integration

• Positioned adjacent to Rossendale Road Industrial Estate, fostering a dynamic and collaborative commercial environment

Tracy Clavell Bate, head of development & acquisition, commented:

“The full completion of Advance Point is a proud moment for the Barnfield Group. We’ve delivered a flexible, high-quality business park tailored to meet the needs of modern operators. With all units now ready for immediate occupation, we look forward to welcoming dynamic businesses to Burnley and contributing to local economic growth.”

Agents Trevor Dawson (01282 458007) and Taylor Weaver (01254 699030) are now inviting enquiries and arranging viewings for both purchases and leases.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: For Burnley 2027 Year of Culture

Burnley is set to take centre stage in 2027 with the launch of its landmark Year of Culture, a celebration designed to highlight the borough’s creativity, heritage and innovation. The initiative will feature a year-long programme of events covering art, music, performance, sport and community activity. Local and regional businesses are now being invited to get involved through a newly launched sponsorship pack, which outlines a range of opportunities to align with Burnley’s most ambitious cultural initiative to date.

The Burnley 2027 Year of Culture sponsorship programme offers a variety of partnership levels tailored to suit different business objectives. Each option provides opportunities

for brand visibility, community engagement and association with a high-profile civic celebration expected to attract visitors and media attention from across the region. Supporting the Year of Culture represents an investment in Burnley’s future, helping to boost the local economy, enhance community pride and contribute to a legacy of creativity and collaboration that will extend well beyond 2027. Find out more:

Burnley’s printing giant expands with 24hr production

Peter Scott Printers, one of Burnley’s longest-standing businesses, is expanding its operations to meet growing demand and further invest in the local community.

The firm, with over 65 years of excellence in the print industry, has announced the return of 24-hour shift patterns, bringing on new staff and increasing production capacity for new business. This marks the first time since the Covid-19 outbreak that

Peter Scott Printers has resumed roundthe-clock production, reflecting strong growth and confidence in the future.

The company is renowned across the North West for delivering top-tier full-colour litho and digital printing services. Murray Dawson, owner of Peter Scott Printers said: “This is fantastic news for Burnley. Expanding our production and bringing in more capacity allows us to better serve our customers

and create new opportunities locally.

“It’s an exciting time for our business, and we’re proud to continue investing in the town that has supported us for so many years.”

With a commitment to quality and service, Peter Scott Printers continues to strengthen its position as a leading print provider in the region, offering comprehensive printing solutions for businesses of all sizes.

©Burnley Leisure & Culture.

Dempsey’s Bistro celebrates six months at Dovestone Gardens with top Tripadvisor spot

Dempsey’s Bistro, is celebrating a remarkable first six months of trading, marking the milestone with a series of achievements that underline its rapid success.

Since opening its doors just half a year ago, Dempsey’s has quickly become a firm favourite with diners, earning the coveted No.1 spot in Burnley on Tripadvisor. The bistro has received rave reviews from customers who praise not only the food, but also the warm welcome, atmosphere, and the altogether different dining experience that Dempsey’s brings to the town.

Owner Mark Dempsey commented: “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve

achieved in such a short space of time. The hospitality industry is facing real challenges, but our success proves that with passion, commitment, and a strong connection to the community, it is possible to thrive. Burnley has a fantastic and diverse food scene, and we’re honoured to be part of it. We want to thank every customer who has supported us over the past six monthswe couldn’t have done it without you.”

Dempsey’s at Dovestone Gardens next to Burnley General Hospital has invested heavily in creating a welcoming bistro and deli that appeals to a wide range of customers, including local residents, hospital

visitors, and the wider Burnley community. The achievement in becoming the toprated restaurant in Burnley on Tripadvisor in such a short period reflects the quality, consistency, and customer experience that diners have come to expect.

As Dempsey’s looks to the future, and a busy festive period the team remains committed to providing great food, exceptional service, and a space where everyone feels welcome. With six months of success already behind them, the next chapter promises to be just as exciting.

Fortnum & Mason take premium deliveries on the road with bespoke CoolKit refrigerated EV

World-renowned retailer Fortnum & Mason has partnered with temperaturecontrolled and refrigerated vehicle specialist (and Burnley Bondholder!) CoolKit, to develop a new van conversion. The new van conversion will support its order-todoor premium goods delivery service, operating across central London.

With sustainability integral to its Future Matters strategy, Fortnum & Mason faced a unique challenge. The retailer required a temperature-controlled delivery vehicle capable of efficiently navigating London’s streets and buildings - where vehicle height restrictions are common - while also prioritising environmental performance.

CoolKit responded with a bespoke refrigerated fully electric van, developed in collaboration with FordPro. The vehicle features a pioneering under-slung refrigeration system, discreetly mounted beneath the Ford E-Transit Custom. This innovative design removes the need for bulky roof units or visible condensers,

maximising internal load space while preserving the iconic retailer’s refined and unmistakable visual identity.

Purpose-built to navigate tight urban environments, the van now enables Fortnum’s doorstep deliveries of premium items including luxury hampers and rare spirits, without compromising on performance, aesthetics or emissions.

Unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show, the van - which is fully wrapped in Fortnum & Mason’s distinctive brand colours - has featured at key brand activities over the summer, including Goodwoof and Royal Ascot, serving up a selection of its fine goods.

The design process was not without challenges. Early plans for a larger, long-wheelbase van were ruled out due to physical and charging restrictions. Despite the technical complexity and evolving brief, FordPro Convertor CoolKit completed the initial design concept to full conversion, within five months.

Gordon Clark, logistics lead at Fortnum

& Mason, said: “What you think you want at the start isn’t always what you actually need. CoolKit helped us explore what the best outcomes for us would be and delivered something remarkable – not just for Fortnum & Mason, but potentially for city logistics across the board.”

Cameron Javed, head of fleet sales at CoolKit, added: “We were delighted to get the opportunity to push the boundaries of EV conversions for such a historic brand.

“CoolKit is always looking for ways to innovate and provide tailored solutions for our customers, so to bring this concept to life with the iconic Fortnum & Mason branding on the van is really satisfying.”

Established in the UK in 2005, CoolKit is widely recognised by fleet operators, fleet funders, OEMs and motor dealers as the largest provider of temperature-controlled and refrigerated light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and related equipment and services.

For more information about visit www.coolkit.co.uk

Confidential advice is available from an independent HR specialist to support you, as an employer, with the complexities of managing sickness and absences at work

Rise of the multi-skilled workforce as

Burnley employers ‘reimagine’ jobs to fill skills gaps

Employers are having to rethink traditional roles, with digitally savvy homecare assistants and manual workers with programming skills part of a rising multi-skilled workforce.

The changing face of the region’s workforce is laid out in the Skills Barometer 2025, an annual reading of the skills landscape by the Lancashire and Cumbria Institute of Technology (IoT), a collaboration of eight colleges and three universities, including Burnley College.

The report found businesses are coming up with innovative ways to get the skills they need with new-look employees that break the traditional mould. And employers report using tech not to replace staff but to enhance their roles.

Burnley College reports digital courses delivering skills in data science, AI and cybersecurity are taking on learners from all sectors. Ben Scott, programme leader of computing at the college, said: “Businesses are coming in to impact our curriculum focusing on different tech careers, but we’re finding there are challenges for the non-tech-based organisations.

“Take the NHS for example – it needs to shift from being a paper-based organisation to use tech more efficiently. Our role as an IoT is to look at how we can assist these sectors by showing how they can best use technology.”

The IoT works with the Royal Society

of Biology to train the scientists of the future, a subject area that is also experiencing a shift in skills needs.

Ian Beckett, programme leader in higher education Science at the college, said: “Developments such as AI-enhanced gene editing are reshaping what it means to be a bioscience professional.

“The ability to work across disciplines - bridging bioscience with data analysis, computational biology, engineering, and even agriculture - will become increasingly valuable.”

Linda Dean, managing director of the IoT, said the economy was seeing a complete reimagining of what a job looks like. She said: “Multi-skilled roles are the new reality for businesses across Lancashire and Cumbria and it’s exciting to see how businesses are stepping up and adapting.

“Stories of manufacturers investing in cobots or healthcare workers needing data analytical skills reflect a wider trend where the workforce is evolving faster than ever. For those willing to invest in skills and rethink job roles, it’s a huge opportunity to futureproof their business.”

The IoT is made up of Burnley College, Blackburn College, Nelson and Colne College, Preston College, Blackpool and the Fylde College, Lancashire and Morecambe College, Runshaw College and Lakes College, along

with the University of Lancashire, Edge Hill University and Lancaster University. It collaborates with employers to ensure technical training meets industry needs.

The Skills Barometer, now in its second year, gathered insight from businesses and experts representing the IoT’s six key sectors - engineering and manufacturing, automotive, computing and digital, construction, health and medical, and science. It asked three questions - what are the skills gaps now, what skills will be needed in the next three to five years, and what do employers need from educators.

The report, published this week, found that multi-skilled and interdisciplinary roles are on the rise, blending traditional technical skills with emerging technologies. Digital literacy and AI skills are becoming universal requirements regardless of the sector. The report also found that soft skills are seen to be as crucial as technical skills, with employers often prioritising communication, emotional intelligence, teamwork and accountability.

Linda said: “In almost every sector, digital fluency is no longer optional, it’s essential. We’re building workforces where job titles might not change but what those roles look like will. Our role, as an IoT, is to make sure the training we offer evolves just as fast as the jobs themselves and collaboration is essential to bridging these gaps.”

Burnley College and Sale Sharks launch ground-breaking women’s rugby academy

Burnley College has announced an exciting new partnership with Sale Sharks.

The Sale Sharks Women’s Rugby Academy is a pioneering dual career pathway designed to empower young women across the whole of Lancashire to excel both on the rugby field and in their academic pursuits. This innovative programme offers talented women’s rugby players the opportunity to combine elite-level performance training with a tailored post-16 education.

Participants will benefit from coaching by Sale Sharks Women’s advanced RFU-qualified coaches and programmed strength and conditioning sessions led by UKSCA-qualified professionals.

They’ll also receive registered nutritional guidance and pro-level sports rehabilitation support.

All of this is delivered alongside their chosen academic studies in Burnley College’s state-of-the-art, industry-leading facilities.

Burnley College’s onsite gym and strength and conditioning centre, Fitness Evolution, features cutting-edge technology including velocitybased training equipment, a cryotherapy chamber and an environment chamber that replicates global climates to enhance performance.

The rugby academy students will also have access to professional-grade therapy suites as well as an exclusive strength and conditioning gym

used by professional athletes.

Brad Pates, curriculum manager at Burnley College, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership:

“We’re really proud to form this partnership with a powerhouse in professional rugby like Sale Sharks so we can support young women across Lancashire as they continue their rugby development.

“This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to providing world-class opportunities for our students, both academically and athletically.”

The Sale Sharks Women’s Rugby Academy offers unparalleled opportunities for players to train and compete at the highest level.

Participants will have the chance to work directly with Sale Sharks Women’s first team, attend training days at the Carrington High Performance Training Centre and take part in Q&A sessions with leading Sale Sharks figures.

This partnership underscores Burnley College’s dedication to fostering excellence in sport and education, with strong links to professional organisations across a wide range of sports.

The Academy is TASS (Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme) accredited, ensuring that students receive the tools and support needed to thrive both as athletes and scholars.

Contact Morgan Ogle to find out more: Email mogle@burnley. ac.uk or call 01282 733180

Burnley-based Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions, a familyrun business that supports neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, is increasing its positive impact across Lancashire through a business loan and ongoing support from Rosebud, part of Lancashire County Council’s Business Growth Service, and Boost; Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub.

Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions was co-founded by Daniel and Val Armitage, a mother-and-son team with first-hand experience of neurodivergent conditions. The company is now led by a diverse team of neurodiverse and disabled people including Daniel’s partner Luke Bennison who joined as operations director.

The company, which was formed in 2023, combines Daniel’s experience with professional expertise to deliver workplace services for those navigating business as a neurodivergent professional. This includes one-to-one coaching, practical support and workplace training, some of which can be funded through the government’s

Access to Work scheme.

The £50,000 business loan from Rosebud will be used to expand its operations with new team members and enhanced training programmes.

Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions have earned numerous regional awards, including the North West Family Business Rising Star Award and SME Northern Enterprise Awards Best Nationwide Neurodiversity Support Specialist 2024, and were further shortlisted as Best New Business at the 2024 BIBAs.

Daniel Armitage, chief executive officer, has further received recognition from Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley for his commitment to raising the standard of living for working professionals in Burnley and the larger Lancashire area.

Championing positive diversity and inclusion in Lancashire

Daniel’s motivation for neurodiversity advocacy stems from his personal experiences navigating employment challenges as an individual with ADHD and

Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions secures Rosebud funding to scale award-winning inclusive workplace services

Dyslexia. By developing his own understanding with a Postgraduate Certificate in Neurodiversity, he has been able to ensure the business has a well-rounded understanding of how to support neurodivergent individuals. Daniel also led a commissioned workplace report on neurodiversity in collaboration with the University of Lancashire.

Daniel said: “There’s only 16 percent of autistic adults in full-time employment because society isn’t set up for a neurodivergent world. NeuroSparks aims to combat this.

“We’re grateful to Rosebud and Boost for their support. Their investment and guidance have allowed us to strengthen our offering and grow our team. It’s encouraging to see local initiatives backing businesses like ours that are focused on making workplaces more inclusive.”

Martin Emmott, fund manager at Rosebud said: “We were impressed by the company’s vision and the inspiring story that stood behind its growth journey so far. We know that with Rosebud funding and support, they are on a strong path to grow.

“We look forward to supporting the future growth of Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions as an invaluable resource for neurodiverse individuals.”

Andrew Leeming, programme manager at Boost said: “The help that NeuroSparks has received highlights the breadth and depth of Lancashire’s business support offer. By contacting Boost early in the company’s journey, Daniel has received strategic support, access to growth networks and links to funding through Rosebud, which will accelerate growth. I’m excited to watch the company continue to expand with this support and help more neurodivergent people across the UK.”

Rosebud provides loans for growing businesses of between £25,000 to £100,000 to enable them to fulfil their full potential. It also offers guidance and support to businesses from a diverse range of sectors and industries, counting some of Lancashire’s standout business success stories in its portfolio.

For More information on Rosebud visit www.rosebudfinance.co.uk

Local business supports academy’s transport needs

Burnley Football Club has announced a new Academy partnership with Burnley Van Hire (a CVS Vehicle Group business), with the local business becoming an Official Academy Partner.

As part of the agreement, Burnley Van Hire’s logo proudly adorns two new minibuses used to transport players and staff to and from training and matches.

On the partnership, CVS Vehicle group director Wayne Ousby said: “We’re proud to support Burnley FC’s Academy and youth development by supplying these new minibuses and additional fleet vehicles.

“The Club means so much to the town, and it’s great to play a part in helping young players and the local community through this partnership.”

With more than 30 years of experience in self-drive and vehicle rental, Burnley Van Hire are one of the north west’s leading car hire, van hire, and garage services companies, providing short and long-term vehicle hire solutions to the retail and commercial markets.

The business covers all areas of East Lancashire including Pendle, Colne, Barnoldswick, Accrington and Blackburn.

This partnership is Burnley Van Hire’s latest involvement with the Clarets, having joined Burnley FC in the Community’s All Onside Charity Business Club last month.

Academy transport manager, Paul Wood added: “These new minibuses will be a great help to our transport provision, particularly for our U18 scholars, along with our youth teams on day release, tournaments and events.

“I’d like to thank Wayne and his team for their continued support and look forward to working with them going forward.”

Pest control firm wins national award

Burnley-based Atlas Environmental Services Ltd has been named Small Business of the Year 2025 at the UK National Pest Awards, the largest and most prestigious event in the country’s pest management industry.

The family-run firm, founded seven years ago, was selected from more than 800 registered pest management companies across the UK. The awards ceremony took place at Old Trafford Cricket Ground, where

the Atlas team were announced as winners in front of industry leaders and peers.

“We were absolutely humbled to be nominated, let alone win,” said Jacob Sidorewic, managing director at Atlas. “It is an incredible feeling to have our hard work recognised on a national level and to put Burnley on the map within our industry.”

The judges praised the company’s professionalism, dedication, and growth,

while feedback from major industry players has been overwhelmingly positive. Following their win, the team welcomed the editor of Pest Magazine to their Burnley offices, who was impressed by their operations and enthusiasm.

Atlas Environmental Services says the accolade will help drive future expansion and strengthen their reputation as one of the UK’s leading independent pest management firms.

Thorne Fire & Security moves back to Burnley and is ready to rocket

Thorne Fire & Security has moved back to Burnley on Holme Road, from the Lomeshaye Estate, after seven years of being based outside of the borough.

Founder and managing director Hadrian Thorne lives in Burnley and is a proud Clarets supporter, but after seeing huge success with his business, temporarily had to move out of the borough after not being able to find a unit to accommodate his growing team and needs.

However, it is with much relief that he has found the ideal base, which happens to be conveniently located next to one of his biggest clients; Crow Wood.

We met Hadrian at their new Burnley base, and he told us: “Lomeshaye provided us with the space we needed at the time, but it didn’t feel like home. Back then, I needed a certain mix of office and storage space and Burnley’s popularity spike for commercial premises meant I struggled to find what I was looking for. I was actually on a night out when I got talking to someone who told me this unit was coming back to market, and here we are!”

Thorne Fire & Security, which works with businesses including Burnley FC , Crow Wood and

across the country, provides fire detection and security including CCTV and remote monitoring. It is also 20 years old this month (October 2025) and is proud that its staff are local and understand the needs of businesses in the borough.

“All too often, when you use a big national company for your fire and security, you just receive the same general service. Being smaller and on the ground locally, we understand the finer details and really pride ourselves on our team. We don’t prey on fear, but instead reassure businesses and residents of the peace of mind our systems can provide,” Hadrian explained.

Thorne Fire & Security currently has 12 members of staff, but has big plans in 2026 to grow that number even more, along with profits and turnover.

One new service which Hadrian hopes will see growth for the business is fire safety virtual reality training. He has teamed up with a local firefighter to ensure the training is as robust and up-to-date as possible.

Another business partnership he has formed is with fellow Burnley Bondholder Wayne Ousby, the owner of Burnley Van Hire, who is now

providing all the commercial vehicles for Hadrian’s team.

The bondholders is an organisation that Hadrian has been a proud member of for many years and another reason why he couldn’t wait to get back into Burnley: “The bondholders is a fantastic network , we really have something special here”.

The bonus of being able to walk to the office is of course

a big draw, and with most of the team being huge Burnley FC fans - with Thorne heavily involved in the club charity – they can’t wait to make the office their own, including a Turf Moor mural and repurposing chairs from Burnley Cricket Field. We’re delighted to have Thorne back in the borough and wish them all the best for their upcoming plans.

THE MORTGAGE BROKER SERVING THE WORLD FROM PADIHAM TOWN HALL

As soon as Lee Price walked into Padiham Town Hall, he knew it was the perfect base for his thriving mortgage business, Acorn Mortgages.

Lee has been a mortgage adviser for 20 years and has built a successful career in the borough in which he grew up. However, during the pandemic he admits the lack of routine didn’t work well for him, so he began the search for space where he could be based and welcome clients.

“I was one of the first people who moved into the Room & Power co-working space and clients are super impressed with the building - one gentleman from abroad thought the entire place was just for me! It’s convenient, with free parking, it’s well maintained and really cost effective,” Lee told InBusinessBurnley, as we met him to welcome him to the Burnley Bondholders.

Lee serves clients from all over the world, including those in Australia, Dubai and Mauritius, although he’s of course built a strong reputation in the local area too.

“First-time buyers and those who require later life lending make up the largest proportion of my business. Although many people sort their own mortgage online, it can actually be hard work. When you pay a broker a fee, you get a level of service that can be priceless, such as them spending hours on the phone to lenders and solicitors instead. People really feel like

they get a lot for their money and I’m grateful that so many come to me via word of mouth,” Lee said.

One recent success for Lee is being recognised by the Equity Release Council, who sent out mystery shoppers to vet later life mortgage brokers. Acorn Mortgages secured a perfect 100 per cent and were the only company to be awarded full marks.

The report cited Lee and his niece Kayleigh, who supports Lee with his admin, as “very personable and trustworthy,” providing “clear, transparent advice with the customer’s best interests at heart and all options assessed”.

Lee commented: “We’re incredibly proud of this result. It’s a reflection of our commitment to providing genuine, ethical, and customer-first advice, the standard we hold ourselves to every single day.”

He’s also proud that he’s built Acorn all in Burnley, which he’s also seeing many people move to after being priced out of other areas, particularly South Manchester.

We love hearing about Burnley businesses flying the flag overseas and a huge congratulations to Lee for his 100 per cent achievement!

Feature : Future Leaders

Under 30s show us how it’s done

Burnley’s Future Leaders programme is proving how strategic, place-led investment in people can help shape a stronger, more ambitious borough, with its second successful cohort recently graduated.

Attracting and retaining talented young professionals is one of the biggest challenges facing regional economies and Burnley is no exception.

But thanks to the collective backing of the Burnley Bondholders and the leadership of the Burnley.co.uk place brand, Burnley is turning this challenge into an opportunity.

Now in its third year, the Future Leaders programme has become a flagship initiative to support, develop and retain the borough’s most promising under-30s, not by chance, but by strategic design.

In 2024/25, the programme welcomed its second cohort, bringing together a group of early-career professionals from Bondholder businesses across sectors. Over the course of 12 months, our young leaders took part in a mix of monthly development sessions, one-to-one coaching, live group projects and off-site experiences, all designed to build confidence, capability and local pride.

“The Future Leaders programme is about creating ambassadors for Burnley,” says Rachel Bayley, Burnley Place Brand Manager. “Following a competitive application process, we end up with a final group of people who

see their future here, who feel part of a wider business community, and who want to make a difference, not just in their organisations, but in the place they live and work.”

WHY THIS MATTERS

Research consistently shows that people in the early stages of their career are not just looking for a job, they’re looking for purpose, belonging, and the chance to grow. According to Deloitte’s 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey, nearly 50% of young workers would leave a role if they didn’t feel supported in their professional development or connected to their workplace culture.

This makes initiatives like Future Leaders not just “nice to have”, but essential to any business and place serious about building a sustainable workforce.

And that’s exactly why the Burnley Bondholders have co-funded the programme, committing time, energy and resources to supporting young professionals across the network. With delivery led by a dedicated programme manager, the initiative is a strong example of what can

happen when businesses, education and place marketing work together.

RESULTS THAT RIPPLE

The impact of the programme is already being felt. Employers report increased confidence, fresh thinking and greater engagement from those who’ve taken part. Past participants speak of stronger networks, a clearer sense of career direction and a renewed pride in being part of Burnley’s growth story.

At their recent graduation from the programme, every Future Leaders spoke about how they have developed in confidence since being in the initiative, with several stepping into new roles and gaining promotions.

As the third cohort commenced in autumn, the message is clear: Burnley is investing in its future; not just through buildings, brands or business parks, but through people.

The Future Leaders programme is one more reason Burnley is being recognised as a forward-thinking, connected place to build a career and a life.

SOCIAL IMPACT PROJECT#1

SEAT TO SPEAK

Jess Chung – Burnley Council

Alexandra Edmondson

– Burnley Council

Jonny Carney-Stott

– TCB Designs

Georgia Hargreaves – Burnley FC in the Community

Hannah Kay – Burnley Youth Theatre

Laura Kennaugh – VEKA plc

As part of their group project on the Future Leaders Programme, six members of the 2024/25 cohort - Jess Chung, Alex Edmondson, Jonny Carney-Stott, Georgia Hargreaves, Hannah Kay, and Laura Kennaugh - set out to tackle one of the borough’s most pressing and sensitive issues: mental health and suicide prevention.

Their project, A Seat to Speak, is a creative and community-focused response to the sobering fact that Burnley’s suicide rate (17.8 per 100,000) is significantly higher than the national average of 10.9, according to the Samaritans.

Informed by both research and personal experience, the team developed a simple yet powerful idea: installing a series of brightly coloured benches in prominent public spaces to serve as visual prompts for connection, reflection and conversation.

“We recognised through research and our own experience that mental health and suicide in Burnley are at a high,” said Jess Chung.

“We wanted to support vulnerable people, so we came up with what we hope is a preventative measure to help them before they got to a crisis point.”

The benches - five in total - are sponsored by local businesses and will be placed across key locations, including Padiham Road, Charter Walk,

outside Burnley Youth Theatre, outside Dovestone Gardens, and Manchester Road at the Nelson Square junction. Local business support has been key to bringing the project to life, a testament to the shared commitment across the Bondholder network to tackle real community challenges.

The businesses are Speakman Contractors, Burnley Youth Theatre, Calico, Walton & Walton Auctioneers and VEKA plc.

Future Leader Jonny, who works at TCB Designs, designed the benches, which were ordered from Kedel (a plastic fabric company in Burnley), and then Jonny printed the design on vinyl and wrapped them.

Jess added: “From speaking to so many local businesses, it’s really clear to see how much everyone cares about Burnley and how we all have a shared passion to make a difference on what is an ongoing issue in our town.”

The first bench was unveiled at the group’s graduation in September, with the remaining installations rolling out over the coming months.

A Seat to Speak is just one example of how the Future Leaders Programme empowers participants to go beyond the boardroom, applying their creativity, empathy and leadership skills to make a real difference in their community.

The second project was a Flight Night, a competitive yet fun darts evening to raise funds for two local charities, Pendleside Hospice and The Participation Works.

The group hosted Lancashire’s first-ever corporate darts night aka Flight Night, inviting local businesses to enter teams and compete in the tournament, held on 26th June at Impact Conferencing in Burnley. The event was a great success, attracting over 100 attendees.

Olivia explained: “We were fortunate to secure sponsorship from Seriun, VEKA plc, Financial Affairs, and West Riding Hyundai. Haffners Eats generously provided complimentary catering and Impact Conferencing kindly offered the venue free of charge.”

The event raised £3,500, which was divided between Pendleside Hospice and The Participation Works.

“We chose these charities because we wanted

to support both the younger generation, those building their futures, and to recognise that life inevitably comes to an end. We wanted to pay our respects to that reality by raising funds to support the incredible work that Pendleside Hospice does, caring for people with life-limiting illnesses and providing vital support to their families.

“Supporting The Participation Works, a much smaller organisation, was especially meaningful to us. While the financial contribution was valuable, the exposure they received through our PR and marketing efforts was equally, if not more impactful,” Olivia concluded.

As the third cohort have made the first steps on their journey with Future Leaders, it is testament to the support of the Burnley Bondholders that it has been the success that it has, with the proposed eventual goal for Future Leaders Burnley to become a nationwide blueprint, ensuring pride of place and thriving communities across the country.

SOCIAL IMPACT PROJECT#2

FLIGHT NIGHT

Matthew Roe

– Impact Conferencing Olivia McCaughran

– formerly Lancashire Business View during the programme, now Pendleside Hospice

Luke Watmough

– Financial Affairs

Tristan Allen

– The Low Carbon Energy Co

Nathan Linklater – VEKA plc

Peter Lawson

– formerly +24 during the programme, now Red-Fern Media

Feature : LPK Facilities Management

Why Burnley’s LPK Facilities Management is only going up and up

We truly have some hidden gems in Burnley, although it’s of course our job to shout about them. One such gem is LPK Facilities Management, which is behind some of the most iconic theme park rides in the UK.

LPK Facilities Management, the brainchild of proud Burnley businessman Liam Kilbride, has worked on huge contracts for Blackpool Pleasure Beach, including on the refurbishment of the Big Dipper for its 100th birthday and the reopening of Valhalla. The Burnley business is also working on a new ride at the Pleasure Beach, so it could be said the rollercoaster is only going up for Liam and his team.

But what exactly does LPK Facilities Management do? Around 90 per cent of their business is building maintenance, while the rest includes security, project management, cleaning and inspections. It has become a trusted name in Burnley and beyond, as Liam explains:

“I was originally part of the BCW group, providing facilities management services to their buildings, with a major contract at the time at boohoo. The pandemic hit and as a group BCW decided to focus on their core businesses and

we decided that LPK had enough work to go it alone. Without them I don’t think I would have ever made the jump into business so I can’t thank them enough.

“Initially, I was based in a portacabin at boohoo’s site, looking after their huge buildings along with other Burnley businesses such as HycAero. I was even out and about fogging premises so they could reopen after Covid. It ensured the businesses that could open were as safe as possible to do so but also meant I had a bit of income coming in!

“We are now based down at Reedley Business Centre across Belvedere, which I am in the process of buying, which will be a very proud moment.”

The jump to self-employment paid off, with the aforementioned Blackpool Pleasure Beach continually choosing LPK, along with Places for People, Rolls Royce and Daisy Communications.

Whilst Liam’s growing list of service contracts across the UK, he is particularly proud of being based in his hometown.

“One of the first things I did when I went self-employed was to join the Burnley Bondholders. We also sponsor

Belvedere and Calderdale Sports Club and I took part in the Pendleside Hospice Strictly Come Dancing challenge. I won it and raised over £9,500 in the process, so I’m really proud of that.”

Liam recently flew the flag for Burnley on a ferry from Portsmouth to Spain, reaffirming that wherever you go in the world, you seem to always bump into someone from Burnley!

“My wife and I got talking to a gentleman from The Cotswolds and he said he had come across a copy of Burnley Lifestyle Magazine [which gets distributed across the country]. He said it was a fantastic magazine and how lucky we were to have such a forward-thinking council and place brand. He asked me to pass on the feedback so here you go!” Liam states.

Our magazines are only as good as they are thanks to our amazing businesses, residents and other partners who make it so easy to find inspiring content. We’re delighted that Liam and his team are getting Burnley’s name out there and we look forward to watching their continued trajectory.

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M.Tracey Building Contractors Ltd

Celebrates 35 Years in Business

Longevity in business is never an accident. It is built brick by brick through hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of community.

For M.Tracey Building Contractors Ltd in Burnley, 2025 marks an impressive milestone: 35 years in business.

The company’s story begins with founder Michael Tracey, whose career started quite literally at ground level as a bricklayer. Michael’s early years were shaped not only by the trade itself, but also by conversations with a neighbour, Burnley FC legend Jimmy McIlroy. Like Michael, McIlroy had once worked as a bricklayer, and the two would often talk about the craft. Those conversations reinforced Michael’s passion for building, not just walls but a future in construction.

In McIlroy’s memory, and with the kind permission of his daughter Anne, Michael has named one of the company’s rooms The Jimmy McIlroy Training Room.

After years of site work, including building houses, pubs, and hotels, Michael began constructing his own homes, a move that earned him a national award.

Over time, Michael worked as a contractor for many companies, and one project took him to Jersey, where he met fellow contractor Gareth Cryer. The two quickly became friends. When they returned home, they remained close and soon laid the foundations for what would become M.Tracey Building Contractors Ltd.

From those beginnings, the business has grown into a well-respected name. Much of its work today focuses on social housing, with the company recognised for delivering quality and reliability that directly benefit local communities. With the housing associations they work with collectively managing over 150,000 homes, Michael and Gareth brought in Mark Laycock to manage all repair operations.

Family has always been at the heart of the business. Michael’s sister Catherine plays a vital role in administration, while his partner Laura oversees the accounts. The next generation is also stepping up, as Michael’s son Murphy has joined the company as an apprentice bricklayer, learning the trade just as his father once did. Long-time mentor Gareth Webb has been with the business for nearly 30 years, a testament to its loyalty and stability.

The company’s new home, Proctor Cote Barn, is a beautifully converted property that serves as both office space and residential accommodation. With stunning views and a strong connection to its surroundings, the barn represents a major investment in the company’s

future. One of the two houses created as part of the conversion is now Catherine’s home, underlining how closely family and business remain intertwined at M.Tracey.

“As the business grew, it was clear we needed somewhere bigger. The new offices and the views from the glass façade are second to none and make our workplace a pleasure to work from. With solar panels and an air-source heat pump installed, we have significantly reduced our carbon footprint while making our energy use more sustainable. We really enjoyed converting the barn and working in such a beautiful environment, though it was challenging at times as we also renovated over 1,200 houses during the same period.”

As the firm looks ahead, its legacy is clear: a business rooted in Burnley, built on hard work, and carried forward by family. With Michael and Gareth acquiring two further development sites and more housing associations seeking their expertise, the future promises to be even busier.

Thirty-five years on, M.Tracey Building Contractors Ltd stands as proof that with strong foundations, you can build something that truly lasts.

Feature : Clearview Cattery

CLEARVIEW CATTERY: Setting the standard for premium feline care in the UK

cattery throughout my childhood and saw how much joy mum brought to cat owners, who knew they could trust her to look after their pets,” Ryan explained.

business choice,” Emily said.

Burnley has many accolades to its name – most enterprising place and friendliest town, to name just two – but there may be one more up its sleeve; home to the poshest cattery in the UK. Granted, this is a title created by InBusinessBurnley BUT after we visited Clearview Cattery in Hapton, it certainly is in for the running. Managed by husband and wife team Emily and Ryan Strange, the cattery is home to 50 chalets that are much larger than most.

The feline guests enjoy underfloor heating (jealous!), an absolutely spotless environment and outdoor secure “catios” attached to each of the chalets so they can safely wander in and out as they wish.

The modernised Clearview Cattery was the brainchild of the couple, who were inspired by both of their mothers. Emily’s mum runs a cattery in Chorley and Ryan’s mum has one opposite Hapton Animal Feeds, so they really are keeping it in the family and drawing upon 40 years of expertise.

“My mum Patricia opened a pet shop on Accrington Market in 1985, before opening Langholme Cattery here in Hapton in 1987. I used to help at the

Once Ryan left school, he helped his mum take her business online via a website and social media. He then met Emily, who herself comes from an animal-loving family.

“My mum also has a love of animals which she’s passed to me. We have horses, dogs, cats, a parrot! When Ryan and I discovered Clearview Cattery was up for sale, people thought we were mad to consider as it was 2020 and of course, everyone was at home with their pets so a cattery didn’t seem like a wise

However, the couple had a vision for a modern, spacious and highend cattery and submitted planning permission for a new block. It was

stressful, but it paid off. Clearview is already half full for summer 2026, has well over 100 five-star Google reviews with not a single rating less than the maximum five and has a five-star rating from Burnley Council.

As well as the high-quality care and accommodation, Ryan and Emily quickly realised that customers love the fact that their families run three catteries between them. Indeed, Emily’s mum Nadine opened Stableview Cattery in Charnock Richard in 2022 and it quickly also earnt a five-star licence.

“We came up with the P.S I Love Cats brand to house all three catteries to show customers that they can expect the same level of care for their cats. We all move between the three and if one is full, we often

accommodate a cat in another one in the family group. We have customers travelling from the Lake District and Manchester. We see some customers dropping their cats off with us from further afield on route to Manchester Airport and whilst we love and care for all cats the same, we’re increasingly popular with pedigree cat owners and breeders due to the standard we provide,” Emily added.

Whilst it was a huge business risk during a pandemic, as we know, many people adopted or bought pets during that period and of course, needed trusted accommodation for them when it was time to go on holiday again.

“I am really particular with who looks after my animals, so I can relate to people who are nervous about choosing a cattery,” Emily explained, with Ryan adding: “We’re gated and have CCTV and of course, with me growing up in this sector, I understand how much of a big leap of faith it is to leave your pets. We update customers via WhatsApp and Facebook so they’re reassured their

animals are happy and looked after.”

Throw in a 2023 wedding and the pair have certainly had a busy few years; surely it’s now time to enjoy the business they’ve built?

Ryan answered: “Not quite! The dilapidated block opposite has the potential for us to have even more room for cats – people love that we only take cats as some places mix animals – so we want to build a modern space like the new one. We also have a family friend starting full time in October as we’re so busy, and we have so many ideas for the P.S I Love Cats brand, so we’re not stepping off the gas just yet.”

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Feature : Gener8 Spaces

BORN IN BURNLEY, BUILT FOR THE WORLD:

The tech powerhouse you’ve probably never heard of, but you should

Have you ever walked into a regular business park office in Burnley, had a great chat with the founder and then pulled a human heart off the wall, spun it around in your hands and placed it at the other side of the room?

Probably not! But this very scenario played out for InBusinessBurnley when we visited an absolute hidden gem of a business on Padiham’s Shuttleworth Mead - Gener8 Spaces. Before we reveal exactly how we got our hands on a rotating heart, we need to take you back to the beginning of the company’s journey.

Graham Chadwick founded the former Ground Designs Company and GD Funding in 2009. Ground Designs was a children’s playground company that used recycled materials whilst the funding business helped schools secure the finances they required to install the playgrounds.

It was a huge success, with 3,500 schools on the books. On one visit to a school, Graham was shown an

interactive wall using a basic projector and a Tetris-style design to give the sense of depth. The seed was planted that this could be a new business idea.

“The playgrounds we installed were much more engaging than standard ones and I found the concept of bringing an immersive environment inside a classroom interesting. My son Christopher worked as a graphic designer at a gaming company so I asked his boss if he could take the interactive wall idea to the next level with some more interesting graphics,” Graham explained.

It was at a technology conference where Graham came across an interactive wall software company where you could touch images and something

would happen on the wall, for example, you could touch a fish and it would swim away. Graham decided to set up Gener8 Spaces to install these walls into schools, but it was a slow start and only three schools came on board.

“I was running Gener8 alongside Ground Designs, so I wasn’t too worried that it was a slow start, but the presentation software was holding us back and wasn’t quite meeting our needs for successful mass rollout. We were also tied to their prices and unfortunately many schools just couldn’t afford it. We decided the solution was to create our own proprietary software that could do exactly what we wanted and could be made bespoke for each client,” Graham said.

EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING

Despite the huge success of Ground Designs, the pandemic in 2020 meant playground sales plummeted overnight. Schools closed, and when they did reopen, headteachers were too busy managing the new restrictions and ways of working to find the time and money to plan new playgrounds. Graham knew he had to pivot.

“Of course, headteachers were too stretched to think about immersive learning rooms as well, so I did some research and discovered that the technology was becoming incredibly popular within healthcare, especially in medical universities in the USA. I

hired a staff member who used to work for the world’s largest simulation company and we made good headway into the US market,” Graham stated.

The University of Central Florida is the largest in the States with over 97,000 students. They purchased one of Gener8’s immersive learning healthcare rooms. The software can be designed to look exactly like the local hospitals, even down to the branding on the ambulances, food products and local clothing styles.

As we listen to Graham, we once again are proud to have such a hidden gem right here in Burnley (and we promise we’re

getting to the scroll-stopping intro!). The company has expanded to 18 employees based in Padiham, six contractors and five major distributors and despite Gener8 being right at home in any major tech city, Graham is local and proud that he provides employment to local people.

Gener8 Spaces started to gain traction in both US and UK universities and owning the touch software themselves mean they can make continual improvements and innovations, one of which is mixed reality within their new Blended Learning Interactive Simulation Suites (Gener8 BLISS).

DID WE PULL OUT THE HEART OR NOT?

We were led to a suite and told to put on a headset. The room in which we were stood was suddenly transformed into a hospital set up with items we could seemingly pull out the wall, make larger and smaller and place down in different parts of the room. We found ourselves walking around furniture that wasn’t there. In the next instance, the room turned into a home, in which we had to rummage through cupboards and read letters on the noticeboard to find out why the gentleman in the scene was unwell. If you ever watched the series House, it felt like an episode of that!

Gener8’s mixed reality creator is the very talented Blessing, who previously studied at the University of Greenwich, following a joint project through Innovate UK, Edgehill University and Gener8. Blessing is originally from Nigeria but has set up home with his wife in Colne in order to develop the incredible technology for Gener8.

Demand has been so high in the US that Gener8 have established a US Company “Gerer8 US LCC” based in Texas

and hired the former vice-dean of a Texan university to drive sales; she’s overseen the installation of three rooms in just four weeks.

“We work with 13 distributors across the world, including Australia, South Korea, India and China. We’re the Rolls-Royce of nextgeneration immersive spaces. But what also stands us out from others is our customer service. We don’t just install, take the money – which is six figures per suite – and that’s it. Our Florida customers say despite the six-hour time difference, we provide fast service. We can log into any of our rooms anywhere in the world to make amendments as required.

“Janet looks after our customer service from Padiham and rings every customer regularly to offer additional training and check everything is OK. We want our rooms to be well used, so when new people join, we like to train them up. We can deal with any machine in the world from right here in Burnley,” Graham concluded.

With the team aiming to hit £7 million in revenue in 2026, we can’t wait to see what they do with the technology next.

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THE FAMILY BUSINESS WORKING WITH TESLA AND WARBURTON’S Feature : Proctor Process Plant

Itnever amazes us just how many incredible businesses are in Burnley. Despite us thinking we’re pretty clued up on the firms here, there are literally hundreds if not thousands of hidden gems (especially on our business parks and industrial estates) that we haven’t even got round to visiting yet.

One such business is Proctor Process Plant, a niche engineering firm that has its base in an unassuming unit at Billington Road. But behind the doors lies a business that has been going since the 1980s –and it’s something of a family affair.

Nathan Proctor is the MD, but it was his father Chris who started the business, which is focused on process heating (stay with us!). Process heating

refers to the application of heat during industrial processes and involves raising the temperature of materials to create or modify products. It uses energy sources such as gas or electricity to heat, dry, melt, or treat materials during manufacturing.

And in the case of Proctors, they have some interesting partnerships with well-known brands. InBusinessBurnley was amazed to hear they create some of the machinery that makes Warburton’s crumpets!

We met Nathan along with his eldest daughter Emmie, who works in the spares department but is currently studying for a digital marketing qualification and hopes to create a marketing function

upon graduation. Other daughter Mollie works in the office and in the service department. Meanwhile, eldest son Josh is a qualified gas engineer and is part of the on-site team. Youngest son George is still in school, but it could perhaps be assumed that he may also follow in the footsteps of his siblings.

“It’s how I got into the business,” Nathan explained. “I used to work with my dad in the school holidays and on weekends when you were allowed to do things like that! This was when Proctors mainly did the heat process for textiles and carpet backing and my mother ran the office, which at the time was in Bury where a family friend had

a small unit to rent. This progressed to other industries through word of mouth and before long we moved to Clough Fold in Rawtenstall to a larger space.”

Process Proctor Plant spent seven

years at that location before outgrowing it once more and relocating to a purpose-built facility in Stacksteads. It was during this time that much of their focus shifted to aluminium, especially

for the canning industry. But as this Lancashire-based family business grew, it soon found itself competing with a major U.S. corporation - and that’s where the journey to Burnley began.

Feature : Proctor Process Plant

DAVID & GOLIATH (Burnley’s version)

Despite catering to the thriving canning market and having to go head-to-head with an established US giant who had a large section of the customer base, Proctors actually secured a huge volume of work. And Nathan is confident why:

“As a smaller company, we were able to move faster and offer a more tailored service, which really appealed to customers. We’re available around the clock to support any machinery issues, and if needed, we can be anywhere in the world within 48 hours to assess our equipment in person.”

Emmie recalled one time when the family was about to head into a theatre to watch The Lion King, but her dad received a call from overseas! The company on the other end was so impressed by Nathan’s quick response and hands-on support that they went on to become one of Proctor’s biggest clients. Another major customer is canning manufacturer Stolle, who recently relocated to Frontier Park in Burnley.

As word of mouth continued to grow, Nathan and the team at Proctors identified a gap in the market. In a typical canning line, the manufacturing process releases fumes that must be safely oxidised before being released into the atmosphere. They realised

that the residual heat from this process could be redirected back into the main system, making some operations significantly more energy-efficient, and in certain cases, even carbon free.

Many clients adopted this new way of working, saving hundreds of KW an hour. Proctors was in demand to build these bespoke systems and once again they’d outgrown their space.

“We’re now in 2016. I looked round lots of different places, but I was really keen to buy not rent. I rang up Burnley Council and spoke to principal economic development officer Martyn Hardacre. Within 24 hours, him and a colleague came to see me and suggested the current unit. They even managed to secure us some funding; we’re a real advocate for the council and after seeing how they supported us, we knew Burnley was the right place for us,” Nathan explained.

The additional space and demand for their services and new innovative processes means the team now sits

at over 40, and they’ve already had to restructure the factory floor to ensure the unit works for their needs.

This green innovation caught the attention of Tesla in Germany, who have since visited the Burnley site three times. After Proctors developed a heat recovery system for their paint lines, the company is now projected to save multiple MW every hour.

So, what next?

It’s been an incredible success story of a company that has grown organically and sustainably over the years, but what next for Proctor Process Plant?

Nathan concluded: “We have a comprehensive 3D design suite and a talented team capable of researching and manufacturing bespoke products for a large range of industries. We’ve also welcomed several apprentices and degree apprentices from Burnley College, specialising in product design, mechanical, and electrical engineering, and we actively support T-Level students with valuable placement opportunities.

“We’ve also joined the Burnley Bondholders. Like the fact we never did marketing, we also never networked, and everyone I spoke to recommended the bondholders. We are looking forward to see where the journey takes us!”

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The Story Behind No.1 Slater Terrace

When Dave Scholes founded Six Connections, his mission was to encourage open conversations about mental health in memory of his friend Ian, who sadly took his own life in 2011.

Since then, he has delivered on that mission in multiple ways: through the sell-out Ask Twice beer collaboration with Moorhouse’s, training programmes for local businesses, merchandise and online resources featuring QR codes that signpost to support, and presentations delivered

in schools, businesses and sports clubs.

Dave’s ambition was always for Six Connections to grow into a wider movement. After several years of building momentum in Burnley and the surrounding area, the organisation is ready to expand its reach.

Six Connections has recently transitioned into a Community Interest Company (CIC). A CIC is a special form of limited company that prioritises community benefit and purpose over profit.

In addition, Dave has made a significant investment in No.1 Slater Terrace, a two-level premises located in the landmark building on the canal, next to the University of Lancashire campus.

InBusinessBurnley visited the site to see the vision brought to life. The upper floor, a bright, flexible workspace, serves as an overspill area to support the main facilities downstairs.

MORE THAN A CO-WORKING SPACE

Downstairs, industrial-style lighting and an open, contemporary layout create a striking first impression.

“My vision was to create a co-working space with a podcast studio, a bar, a boardroom and other breakout areas. We want members who fully buy into the concept, ideally those who have been through Six Connections mental health training so they can recognise the signs if someone isn’t themselves. It’s about encouraging people to ask if someone

would like a brew and a chat. This will be a safe space where, if someone has had a difficult weekend, they will always find someone willing to listen,” Dave explains.

At the heart of the space is Carter’s, the bar named in honour of Ian. Fridays are now dedicated networking days, with Carter’s opening at 3pm to provide both alcoholic and soft drinks for a relaxed end to the working week. The bar also hosts Six Connections events and is available for other gatherings, with scope to extend opening hours if demand continues to grow.

was uncovered, I actually liked it. It reminded me of the Hacienda when the floor would be marked from use. It complements the warehouse-style columns, so these features inspired the industrial, minimal aesthetic,” says Dave.

The Green Room boardroom, with one wall of artificial grass as a nod to football, offers a distinctive meeting environment. Businesses are already booking the space for off-site sessions, with the income enabling Six Connections to make it available to charities and not-for-profits at no cost.

Local illustrator Emma Weston and a specialist interior design studio have worked with Dave to shape the look and feel.

“When the original flooring

To build further momentum, Six Connections is now seeking corporate sponsors for No.1 Slater Terrace, both for the overall project and for specific elements such as the podcast studio and Green Room. This support will help ensure the organisation delivers maximum impact for Burnley’s business community.

Find out more by emailing hello@sixconnections.co.uk

WHY DASHED FIGHTER PILOT

DREAMS TURNED INTO A MULTI-MILLIONPOUND BUSINESS

It could be said that Ben Blackburn was always destined to be an entrepreneur after running his dad’s Sage software at the age of 13. However, as a child, Ben always had one career in mind - becoming a fighter pilot.

“My dad’s company was Precision Weighing Scales and I was always curious about computers. At 13, I basically become the firm’s credit controller - unofficially - as I knew how to use Sage accounting software! I never wanted to take over the business as my dream was to become a fighter pilot, but I didn’t meet their strict entry requirements,

so I needed to pivot,” founder of LifeLab Ben told InBusinessBurnley when we sat down with him at his Vision Park base.

This was in 2004, and Ben instead decided to go to university to study business. However, it was a task given to him by his grandma that triggered an idea that has led him to where he is today, at the helm of a company on track to have £3.5 million revenue for 2025.

“My grandma was looking for a diabetic sweetener but couldn’t find one. I found a manufacturer who would only sell a

minimum of 25kg and to businesses only. So, I set up as Blackburn Distributions Ltd and started selling on eBay.

“I was still doing my degree and it was a lot; so many times I wanted to quit university to focus on the business, but my mum convinced me to stay and told me no one could take my degree away from me. It was tempting though – I was clearing £8,000 a month so I did feel I was wasting my time at uni! However, it did give me another year to mature, so I’m glad I stuck it out,” Ben explained.

Ben’s biggest business mistake

We’re now in 2008 and Ben needed extra pairs of hands, so he started to recruit his friends to join him. Unfortunately, that turned out to be a mistake due to the change in dynamics, which wasn’t conducive to an efficient working relationship.

“My dad passed away two years ago, but he always told me that hiring staff was the hardest thing you do in business. Hiring friends was the easy option but having boundaries as their employer was difficult. I sadly lost friends along the way as a result, but I treat it as a learning curve and know not to repeat that mistake now,” Ben said, admitting the wrong recruitment journey set him back three years.

Fast forward to 2012 onwards and Ben is now recruiting those who share

his vision, as well as a business mentor. He was operating out of premises in Pendle, but he needed a more suitable space, and he discovered Vision Park in Burnley. He was so impressed, along with the business support available from Burnley Council, that he bought a unit off plan and eventually moved in 2018.

“I found Martyn in the business support team really friendly, and he’s helped us secure grants to buy new machinery - they’re a great resource and we’ve probably maxed out the full support available to be honest! I can highly recommend. The only thing left was to join the Burnley Bondholders and I was encouraged that it isn’t just for big business, with firms of all sizes members and receiving the same benefits,” Ben stated.

Rebrand and future growth

In 2022, Ben decided to rebrand to LifeLab as 1) people thought he was based in Blackburn and 2) the company actually didn’t do logistics. By this point, they’d hugely expanded into supplements, such as pre and post workout, sports and health, so Ben wanted a brand that reflected this. LifeLab Manufacturing is the whitelabelled arm of the business which makes products that others resell under their own brand. LifeLab Supplements is their own brand which they sell directly to consumers. LifeLab offers full-service supplement manufacturing, from bespoke formulation to finished labelled supplements, helping

entrepreneurs and brands launch marketready products quickly and reliably. Interestingly, Ben has modernised the business to take advantage of the current explosion of influencer personal brands, with several owners of big Instagram and TikTok accounts creating their own lines of supplements through LifeLab. It’s big business, with one of their influencer clients making £850,000 a month!

Ben stated that “LifeLab is pushing the boundaries of supplement innovation; creating cutting-edge science-led products that make a real difference to people’s health”.

Why does Ben think LifeLab has been as successful as it has?

“Like most things in life, it’s the customer service and flexibility that we offer, which larger manufacturers just can’t match. We’re currently at full manufacturing capacity and need even more space at Vision Park! My goal is to keep evolving the product lines and to hit £10 million revenue within the next three years.”

He concluded with some words of wisdom:

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. My biggest successes have come from taking advice from others.”

The LifeLab team, with Ben holding their winning trophy

Feature : Burnley Business Awards 2026

BURNLEY BUSINESS AWARDS 2026: Celebrating Excellence at Towneley Hall

The Burnley Business Awards are returning in 2026, and this time, they’re heading back to Towneley Hall following its recent restoration. After a memorable evening at Crow Wood Hotel in 2024, the awards will once again take place in one of Burnley’s most iconic venues, celebrating the achievements of local businesses. VEKA plc will join as headline sponsor for the first time, marking their 40th year of business in Burnley and reinforcing their commitment to recognising and championing excellence across the town’s business community.

ABOUT THE BURNLEY BUSINESS AWARDS

The Burnley Business Awards have been a cornerstone of the town’s business community for several years. Organised by Burnley Council, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of businesses across the borough. The event provides an opportunity for businesses of all sizes and sectors to showcase their successes and gain well-deserved recognition.

NOMINATIONS OPEN IN JANUARY

Entries for the Burnley Business Awards will open in January 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to highlight their accomplishments. With a variety of categories available, there’s something for everyone. Nominations are free, and businesses are encouraged to visit Burnley.co.uk for updates and entry forms.

NEW CATEGORIES FOR 2026

Introducing three exciting new categories:

NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR: Due to popular demand, we are delighted to introduce the Not-For-Profit Award, open to not-for-profit businesses, social enterprises, CICs and charities.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE AWARD

This award recognises organisations that are leading the way in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, embedding sustainability, ethical responsibility, and strong governance into the core of their operations.

MICRO BUSINESS OF THE YEAR:

Acknowledging the popularity of the Small Business of the Year category the micro category has been added to give businesses with up to 10 employees the chance to shine.

These categories will sit alongside Small Business of the Year (11–25 employees); Small Business of the Year (26–49 employees); Medium Business of the Year (50–250 employees); Large Business of the Year (over 250 employees); the Innovation Award; Manufacturing Excellence Award; Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality Award; Employer of the Year; and Young Employee of the Year.

THE JUDGING PROCESS

Shortlisted businesses will be invited to present their entries in person to a panel of judges, which includes representatives from Burnley Council, the awards’ sponsors, and an independent third-party judge. This is your opportunity to bring your application to life, share your story directly, and highlight the achievements, innovation, and impact that make your business stand out. The panel will consider all aspects of your entry, using the criteria from the relevant category, ensuring a thorough and fair assessment.

INSIGHTS FROM LAST YEAR’S WINNERS

BEN BLACKBURN, managing director of LifeLab Supplements, was honoured with the Manufacturing Excellence Award at the 2024 Burnley Business Awards. Reflecting on the experience, Ben shared:

“Don’t get too hung up on who else might be entering or that you might not win - just focus on the great things you’re doing. You don’t need to be Amazon to be amazing; most of us are building something special with the tools we’ve got. For me, the awards were a great chance to pause and actually take stock of how far we’d come. It helped our team see that all the graft and late nights really do add up to something worth shouting about. And if you do win, that’s a bonus. We were up against Safran and VEKA plc; I thought we didn’t have a chance! My advice? Be yourself and tell your story honestly - that process alone helped us sharpen how we talk about our business and strengthened our brand. Winning gave us a real boost too; it was a solid reminder that we’re on the right path and gave us the confidence to push even further.”

MICHAEL HUCKERBY, director of The Lawrence Hotel which took home the Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality Award, said:

“There is something special about the Burnley Business Awards because they are local, and winning really gives us a sense of pride. It is also a great marketing tool to showcase the quality of what we do to potential guests. I think anyone thinking of applying should absolutely go for it. My advice would be to make your application and your judges’ presentation fun, show your brand’s personality, and make sure you know your facts and figures.”

LAURA FAGAN, group HR manager at Fagan and Whalley, advised:

“When completing your application, focus on what makes your business stand out, such as your people, values, and the positive impact you’ve made. Support your story with clear evidence, including data, success stories, or testimonials that demonstrate real results. But most importantly, enjoy the process! It’s a valuable opportunity to reflect on your achievements and take pride in everything your business has achieved.

“Winning the Burnley Business Awards 2024 for Large Business of the Year and Employer of the Year, gave us outstanding recognition within the local community. It strengthened our reputation and helped us to build deeper relationships through partnerships and opportunities across the area. The awards also gave our teams a significant morale boost, celebrating their hard work, collaboration, and dedication, that continues to strengthen employee relations.”

Feature : Burnley Business Awards 2026

TIPS FOR A STRONG APPLICATION

If you’re considering entering, here are some tips to help your application stand out:

TELL YOUR STORY CLEARLY:

Don’t assume the judges know who you are or what you do. Write as if you’re introducing your business to someone unfamiliar with it.

BE SPECIFIC:

Provide concrete examples, data, and outcomes that demonstrate your achievements. For instance, if you’ve increased sales, include the percentage growth and the strategies that led to it.

HIGHLIGHT YOUR IMPACT:

Show how your business contributes to the community, your employees, or the environment. This could include initiatives like local hiring practices, charitable activities, or sustainability efforts.

STAY INFORMED

For updates, key dates, and all the latest award news, visit Burnley.co.uk and follow @Burnley.co.uk on social media.

Feature : Vital Synergy

FORMERLY KNOWN AS VITAL HEATING, THE COMPANY HAS REBRANDED TO VITAL SYNERGY to reflect its growth beyond heating and plumbing. Today, Vital Synergy stands as one trusted partner delivering end-to-end solutions in Building Services Engineering, System Design and Installation, Mechanical and Electrical Services, Reactive and Planned Maintenance, and Building Management Systems (BMS).

When David Heap was working as a self-employed plumber back in 2007, he always had the goal to take his company to the next level beyond just himself. Fast forward to today and we’re doing this interview in Vital Synergy’s large premises in Read, with 32 employees and 70 subcontractors on the books.

Feature : Vital Synergy

“I started with just myself mainly doing your typical domestic work, but as I got busier and busier, I needed to add an apprentice, then another. Ten years later, I had a fleet of vans and was securing a lot of clients with higher-end domestic properties and therefore bigger jobs. This evolved into commercial projects, which is a large part of what we do now, but of course we still serve the domestic market and gladly do so,” David told InBusinessBurnley when we met him following Vital Synergy joining the Burnley Bondholders.

We all know how hard it is to build a thriving business, so why has Vital Synergy managed to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship?

David stated: “Commitment and consistency; I live and breathe this business and I’m really passionate about it. I’d work up to 50 hours often with minimal breaks when solo, just to fit all of the jobs in that I could.

“I’m also really pedantic about engineering and our installations do stand out for their quality. We’ve received feedback from customers who acknowledge how comprehensive and particular we are about what we do. Our advanced systems help people and businesses save money as they’re much more efficient.”

This striving for quality means David

and the team have plans to open a centre of excellence at their site at Friendship Mill.

“Burnley and the surrounding area have a huge amount of industry and these sectors need to ensure their carbon output is reduced and energy costs are manageable. We are positioning ourselves as a national energy specialist, however, it’s also important that the next generation of heating and plumbing engineers have the skills to handle the growing expectations and demands of customers,” David continued.

LOOKING CLOSER TO HOME

This has led Vital Synergy to work closely with Burnley College to make sure the learners are taught what is needed to have a successful career in what is an evolving industry. The Vital Synergy training matrix is incorporated into the curriculum, whilst the team take on several apprentices a year.

“We don’t want them to be just making brews; we want to make sure apprentices are hitting their topics when with us, as well as having a full career path and learning plan so they know what they need to do to get where they want to go,” Lucia Arnone, director of business transformation said.

WHY WAS JOINING THE BURNLEY BONDHOLDERS IMPORTANT TO VITAL SYNERGY?

Lucia explained: “When we recruited, we found we weren’t getting many applications from the local area, which in turn meant our conversations were often with universities like Salford and Lancaster. Then we suddenly realised that maybe we needed to immerse ourselves even more so in the local area. If as many businesses as possible know about us, then hopefully this will also help with raising awareness with future employees who may feel they have to travel elsewhere to work, when we’re right here.”

The Read premises also has a trade counter and an automated pick and pack system, which has saved many a plumber or member of the public who needs a part in an emergency.

THE GROWTH OF THE BUSINESS IS IMPRESSIVE, SO WHAT NEXT FOR VITAL SYNERGY?

“Now I’m not working 50-hour shifts as a heating engineer, I’ve had time to think more strategically. I’ve structured the business so it can handle large-volume contracts, including refrigeration, electrical and construction”, said David.

We look forward to watching how this business continues to grow.

Katy Leeson: LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP, CULTURE &

RESILIENCE

SHARED WITH BURNLEY BONDHOLDERS

When Katy Leeson, former managing director of Social Chain, took to the stage at the Burnley Bondholders event, she brought with her not just a story of scaling a business from 30 to 130 employees and driving 650% revenue growth, but a candid reflection on the leadership lessons learned along the way.

Leeson, who has worked in marketing for over two decades, explained how her journey from Oldham schoolgirl to boardroom leader was marked by determination, adaptability, and a refusal to be constrained by geography. “I was determined to stay in the North,” she said, recalling her decision to build a career outside of London, at a time when the capital was seen as the only route to advancement in advertising and media.

BUILDING CULTURE AS A GROWTH ENGINE

One of Leeson’s strongest messages was the primacy of culture. At Social Chain, culture was not a “perk” but the backbone of the business. From slides and ball pits to unlimited holidays and a head of happiness, the office became as well-known for its environment as for its creative output. But beyond the gimmicks, culture drove performance.

“A strong culture increases engagement, improves retention and helps businesses navigate change,” Leeson said. For Burnley firms looking to attract and retain top talent, her advice was clear: make culture a strategic priority, not an after thought.

HIRING FOR FIT, NOT JUST EXPERIENCE

Leeson emphasised the importance of hiring based on cultural fit over technical experience. A poor hire, she warned, can destabilise an entire team. Instead, she sought out individuals whose values aligned with Social Chain’s values, to be first, fearless, and ever-changing.

“The happiest people create the best work,” she explained, a principle that underpinned her hiring philosophy.

PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR MODERN LEADERS

Leeson also responded to questions from Bondholders on topics ranging from managing multi-generational teams to navigating client relationships. Her advice was grounded in pragmatism: Connection before accountability: today’s employees want to feel understood before being held to account. Know when to say no: choosing clients that align with your values is critical to long-term growth.

Personal branding matters: particularly on LinkedIn, where people connect with people more than corporate logos.

In Focus : Lessons in leadership

EMBRACING IMPOSTER SYNDROME

Addressing an often unspoken leadership challenge, Leeson talked openly about imposter syndrome. Rather than viewing it as a weakness, she reframed it as a growth tool. “When the imposter shows up, it is an opportunity to level up,” she said, encouraging leaders in the room to acknowledge self-doubt but use it as a catalyst for learning.

RELEVANCE FOR BURNLEY BUSINESSES

The talk struck a chord with the Bondholder audience. Burnley firms, many of which are growing rapidly in competitive markets, face the same challenges Leeson navigated, recruiting and retaining talent, adapting to digital disruption, and maintaining a sense of purpose in fast-changing industries.

Her story of scaling one of the UK’s most high-profile agencies while staying true to her Northern roots resonated strongly. It was a reminder that worldclass businesses can thrive outside London, and that Burnley’s entrepreneurs have the opportunity to do just that.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Katy Leeson’s appearance at the Burnley Bondholders was not just inspirational but instructive. Her three key lessons - build culture deliberately, hire for fit, and surround yourself with people who challenge you - are as applicable to Burnley’s SMEs as they are to global agencies.

As one audience member put it afterwards, her message was a timely reminder that “leadership is less about having all the answers and more about creating the conditions for others to succeed”.

TOP THREE TIPS

1. Make culture your competitive advantage Treat culture as a strategic tool, not a perk. Engaged, happy teams outperform in creativity, retention, and resilience.

2. Hire for values, not just CVs Skills can be taught, but cultural alignment ensures people thrive and elevate the whole team.

3. Reframe self-doubt as opportunity Use imposter syndrome as a prompt to learn, grow, and push beyond your comfort zone.

Elite Leadership & Mindset Coaching at Whitehough Outdoor Centre

Unlock your leadership potential with Beyond Business, an exclusive coaching programme led by elite performance experts Mike Phelan and Dave Horrocks. Held at the scenic Whitehough Outdoor Centre, this immersive experience combines outdoor learning with insights from top-tier football and business leadership to enhance your mindset, resilience, and decision-making.

What you can expect

Leadership lessons from elite sport experts

Mindset and high-performance strategies

Exclusive coaching and mentoring

Outdoor challenges that push boundaries and enhance teamwork

Bespoke packages designed to address your business need

Who should attend

Business leaders

Executives

Managers

Join

Anyone looking to enhance their leadership and mindset through proven strategies from elite sport.

Coaches

Us & Elevate Your Game

Location: Whitehough Outdoor Centre, Barley New Rd, Barley, Burnley BB12 9LF.

For more information, please contact: whitehough@burnleyfc.com or call 01282 615688

Step into the mindset of champions – learn from the best, lead with confidence!

In Focus : Lessons in leadership

FROM ELITE SPORT TO HIGH-PERFORMANCE WORKPLACES

In Focus : Lessons in leadership

After decades in elite football, helping shape Manchester United’s golden era under Sir Alex Ferguson, Mike Phelan is now channelling his vast experience into a new arena: business performance. Together with performance expert and long-time collaborator Dave Horrocks, he has launched Beyond Business, a leadership development initiative designed to help organisations unlock potential, strengthen teams and inspire lasting change.

Drawing on lessons learned from world-class athletes and pressure-filled environments, Phelan and Horrocks are proving that the principles of high performance are universal. Whether on the training pitch or in the workplace, success still depends on communication, trust, adaptability and culture.

A MASTERCLASS IN CREATING A WINNING NCULTURE

Mike Phelan’s story begins in Nelson, Lancashire. His early days at Burnley Football Club marked the start of a remarkable journey that would take him to the top of world football. Playing for Manchester United and earning an England cap reflected not just talent but a relentless drive to improve.

After hanging up his boots, Mike’s transition into coaching would bring him back to Old Trafford. Rising through the ranks, he became first team coach and later assistant manager under Sir Alex Ferguson.

His time alongside Ferguson was formative, shaped by discipline, high standards and a shared vision for excellence.

“I went back as reserve team coach and Sir Alex encouraged people to set good habits,” Mike recalls. “After a year he invited me into the first team. That change was huge. At reserve level you’re dealing with young players and those disappointed not to be in the squad. You had to think on your feet. It taught me a lot.”

Moving into the first team meant a new focus. “It was all about winning and getting the job done. Sir Alex was brilliant; he let me grow, he encouraged and pushed me. You earned his respect, and the respect of the players and fans.”

When asked if they shared management styles, Mike smiles. “We were different, and that balance worked. Nobody could be a second Sir Alex. He was raw, knowledgeable, exciting, angry – all those things in one. He pushed you to see if you could handle situations.”

During Mike’s tenure, Manchester United won six Premier League titles, the FA cup, the League Cup, the Club World Cup, the European Cup Winners Cup and the UEFA Champions League as well as reaching many finals.

“Sir Alex created a work environment with a fantastic ethic and real moral standards,” Mike says. “It was always about how we win. He wasn’t afraid of losing – just not too often.”

He admits that only after leaving football did he truly reflect on his achievements. “I celebrated in the moment, but I didn’t realise what I’d achieved until afterwards. I even enjoyed losing to a degree, because it gave me the next challenge.”

Mike Phelan

4pp

“Sir Alex created a work environment with a fantastic ethic and real moral standards.

“It was always about how we win. He wasn’t afraid of losing - just not too often.”

In Focus : Lessons in leadership

FROM GRASSROOTS TO GLOBAL

Despite the glamour of elite football, Mike has never lost touch with his roots. He still lives locally and remains heavily involved in grassroots coaching. Together with business partner Dave Horrocks, he founded Mike Phelan Coaching, supporting parents and coaches in community football.

“I started at grassroots level,” Mike says. “We used to play street football, then a local parent set up Barrowford Celtic. It’s so important to get young people playing. Coaching is hard, so we wanted to give something back.”

Their shared work in coaching soon evolved into something bigger. Recognising the parallels between sporting performance and business leadership, they became shareholders in Peak 4, a company that links employee wellbeing to organisational performance.

“At Peak 4 we connect wellness directly to company results,” explains Dave. “By equipping businesses and employees with tools and insights, we create high-performance cultures where both people and profits thrive.”

This fusion of sport and science laid the groundwork for Beyond Business.

BEYOND BUSINESS: BRIDGING SPORT AND LEADERSHIP

Beyond Business combines Mike Phelan’s lived experience of elite performance with Dave Horrocks’ academic expertise in human behaviour and performance psychology. The programme is designed to help organisations of all sizes strengthen leadership, communication and resilience.

Delivered in partnership with Burnley FC in the Community, the sessions take place at Whitehough Outdoor Centre in Pendle – a location that holds deep meaning for both men. Set across 22 acres of countryside, Whitehough offers outdoor activities, team-building challenges and reflection spaces that encourage collaboration and creativity. It is operated by Burnley FC in the Community and provides everything from adrenaline-filled activities to peaceful retreats, with onsite accommodation and easy access to Pendle Hill and the sculpture trail.

For Mike, it is more than just a venue. It is a place filled with childhood memories and formative experiences that shaped his outlook on teamwork and leadership.

“I was in that dormitory at ten, and then we camped a night in the field and walked over Pendle Hill. It’s remarkable that it’s still here and it needs to be appreciated. It was the first time you’d been away from home and, even though it was only two miles from home, you felt like you could be anywhere. It’s so beautiful.”

Dave shares that connection. “I came here on a school trip and it’s one of the reasons we were so keen to get involved. We even brought schoolchildren over from San Francisco recently, and although they’re from one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, they were blown away by the venue.”

He adds: “When people get out of the workplace and come here, doing the activities is a real equaliser. You get to talk to colleagues differently and learn about them as people. It breaks barriers and builds trust.”

In Focus : Lessons in leadership

MIKE AND DAVE’S TOP TIPS

Mike’s advice:

“Pay attention to people – people make things happen. Be in the room. I’m a big believer in studying body language and communication. Bring your best self. If you demand what you can’t give, you lose respect. Focus on strengths and give people ownership.

That’s what we had at United. Culture is everything.”

Dave’s advice:

“Be yourself. You can read every leadership book, but you won’t become that person. Trust the futurethings will change, but go with the flow.”

A DAY WITH BEYOND BUSINESS

A typical day with Beyond Business begins with outdoor challenges focused on teamwork and leadership. The afternoon brings theory sessions that translate those lessons into workplace action.

“Mine’s a lived experience,” says Mike. “He’s lived it, and I’ve documented it,” adds Dave.

“I’ve published papers on elite performance,” Dave explains. “I back up Mike’s experiences with theory and evidence. You can even liken departments in a workplace to footballers. Marketing might be your Eric Cantona or Ryan Giggs - creative and instinctive - while your legal or finance team are your Gary Nevilles: disciplined and consistent.”

The combination of practical insight and academic grounding has taken the duo worldwide, delivering sessions in the US, Dubai and beyond.

FULL CIRCLE

From the streets of Nelson to Manchester United’s dugout and back to the Pendle countryside, Mike Phelan’s story has indeed come full circle but this is just the beginning of another new chapter. With Beyond Business, he and Dave Horrocks are proving that the lessons of elite sport - preparation, adaptability and teamwork – are just as vital in business as they are on the pitch. Their message is simple: success comes from people. Help them perform, and everything else follows.

The Ultimate Driving Machine