InBusiness Burnley - Issue 27, May 2026

Business leaders

lobby government pg18

Standing the test of time pg43

Digital and tech festival pg6

InBusinessBurnley

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Welcome from the editor

Welcome to the latest issue of InBusinessBurnley, featuring a roundup of news and developments from across the borough over the past six months.

Our In Focus section highlights four outstanding, yet very different, businesses that have each stood the test of time. VEKA, CRC Evans, Barnfield Construction and Surridge Sport are all celebrating significant milestones, and we spoke to them about their journeys and the factors behind their enduring success.

We also spoke to some interesting local businesses, Beloved Pets, Green Arc and The Dough Ball Pizza Company who whilst not have been around for as long, are making waves in their chosen fields.

The Burnley Bondholders network is about far more than networking, and a number of its representatives recently visited Westminster for an exclusive event to lobby government on the importance of supporting northern businesses, particularly mid-sized and familyrun enterprises. Turn to page 18 to read more about how the event unfolded. If you are based in Burnley and would like to become part of this inspiring network, please email rbayley@burnley.gov.uk.

We are fortunate to have so many exceptional businesses in our borough that the shortlisting and judging process for the Burnley Business Awards proved extremely challenging. Our judges were highly impressed by the quality of the applications. The winners will be announced on 9 July at the sold-out event taking place at Towneley Hall. We look forward to celebrating their achievements in the next issue of InBusinessBurnley, so please do look out for that.

Please do continue to share your news stories with us. We are always keen to celebrate your successes and, in addition to featuring selected stories in the magazine, we can also help promote them through Burnley.co.uk social media channels. We do our best to keep abreast of developments across the borough, but with so much happening, we always appreciate businesses getting in touch.

Katie McGee Editor kmcgee@burnley.gov.uk

6 Burnley gets ready for Lift off

18 From Burnley to Westminster

culture.burnley.co.uk

NORTHERN COMMUNITY BANK’S

NEW £2.5M HOME TAKING SHAPE

The account holder-owned community bank is on track to open their new headquarters on Manchester Road in June 2026. Many will recognise the iconic building, formerly a popular Wetherspoons and more recently Ellis’s.

InBusinessBurnley had a glimpse into the future of Northern Community Bank’s new home, where Readstone Construction are helping to lay the foundations for an exciting new chapter in the community bank’s 44-year history.

As the Northern Community Bank team has grown to support over 17,000 people

across the region, the new building will allow different departments to work more collaboratively under one roof.

Kathryn Fogg, CEO of Northern Community Bank, explained the vision for the new branch:

“This is going to be a welcoming, purpose-built hub, where new or existing account holders can manage their accounts. There will be a Little Savers Corner, to occupy our young savers whilst their parents and guardians are dealing with accounts and areas where we can work with partners from the community to copromote the work we all do.”

The community bank works with local businesses to support employee financial wellbeing through Payroll Plus, a free staff benefit scheme.

The programme enables employees to save directly from their salary and access loans through payroll deduction, helping them manage their finances in a simple and structured way. Employees also have access to free financial education resources.

By partnering with local employers, the community bank aims to support a more financially resilient workforce and strengthen connections

within the local community. The community bank is entrusted to look after £19million pounds in savings, and throughout their history the team have helped people in the community access over £200million in loans.

“Making money easier for everyone is Northern Community Bank’s goal, the board of directors and staff are excited about this positive investment in Burnley –which we are certain will benefit account holders in-branch and people in communities right across Lancashire and Cumbria,” adds Kathryn

To find out more at northerncommunitybank.co.uk

BURNLEY GETS READY FOR LIFT-OFF

County’s annual innovation, finance and tech conference reveals details of its 2026 speaker programme

Following its sold-out debut in Preston last year, LIFT – Lancashire’s annual innovation and technology festival – will take place on June 11th at Burnley Football Club’s Turf Moor stadium.

With speakers coming from London, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Cumbria, Cheshire and Sunderland, LIFT 26 will feature a range of different voices, and fresh business perspectives, from outside the county.

Just as diverse will be the industry expertise in the room, with software, entertainment, AI, healthcare, electech,

manufacturing, edtech and retail just some of the sectors set to be represented by founders taking part.

Major investors - including several VCs and angels - will also be speaking at LIFT.

Among these will be Alex Heerema, an investment manager at Ascension, one of the UK’s most dynamic VC firms, and Sarah Barber, managing partner at leading Londonbased capital investment firm, Jenson Funding Partners.

Joining them will be serial entrepreneur James Butcher, a founding member of Lancashire’s

Fhunded Angel network, Jane Theaker, a life sciences investment consultant from SpinXperts, and Toby Biollo, a tech investment specialist from HSBC Innovation Banking.

Another speaker will be rock guitarist turned music tech founder, Hazel Savage. Hazel, who sold her Musiio AI business to SoundCloud in 2022, currently heads up the Leeds Angels syndicate in West Yorkshire.

Commenting on her appearance at LIFT, she said: “As someone who went from playing in punk bands and working for disruptive tech firms like Shazam,

to building and selling my own company to SoundCloud, I fully understand the mindset of entrepreneurs who are passionate about their business.

“Now, as an angel investor, I can also see things from a funder’s perspective, and I’ll be sharing insights from both sides of the table when I come to Burnley in June.”

As well as Hazel sharing her experiences, LIFT will see several other northern founders talking about the lessons they’ve learned through starting and growing innovative companies.

These will include Mary

Speakman, co-founder of Blackpool-based software company Code Galaxy, Ben Stuart, founder of the Cumbrian soft-drink brand Lakes Soda, Mark Kelly, MD of Chorley adhesives and sealants firm Kelmore, and Graham Chadwick, founder of the Burnley-based edtech business Gener8 Spaces.

Hosting this year’s LIFT will be Jonny Clark, CEO of Capital Enterprise, a national notfor-profit organisation which supports innovative startups, Jonny is a very vocal advocate for the North’s tech and digital economy. An active angel

investor himself, he is also well known in the North West for running the acclaimed Liverpool Slush’D events in 2023 and 2024.

He said: “Having ran events like Liverpool Slush’D, I know just how much untapped business growth potential there is in the region. But what LIFT demonstrates is that it’s not just about cities like Liverpool and Manchester, and that Lancashire has a dynamic founder community driving its own thriving innovation-led economy.

“The fact LIFT will see angels and VCs from across the UK coming to Burnley is

also testament to just how far Lancashire has come as an investor destination, and I’m really looking forward to hosting it.”

LIFT 26, which is funded by Lancashire County Council and delivered as part of LCC’s Innovate Lancashire programme, is sponsored by Forbes Solicitors.

Daniel Fletcher, senior associate from Forbes, which is headquartered in Lancashire and has offices across the North, said: “LIFT helps to strengthen the region’s economy by encouraging innovation. It provides valuable support for

entrepreneurs and scale-ups, and connect ambitious companies with professionals who can share experience and high-quality advice that drives growth. It’s a privilege to be involved with LIFT and to have the opportunity to support Lancashire’s early-stage ecosystem.”

With more speakers still to be announced for the full-day festival, LIFT tickets are already selling quickly, and can be booked www. tinyurl.com/LIFTBurnley

BURNLEY BUSINESSES UNITE TO CELEBRATE

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

The Burnley business community came together to mark International Women’s Day at a special event organised by Burnley.co.uk, which welcomed members of Burnley Bondholders for an engaging and impactful session focused on women’s health in the workplace.

The event featured guest speaker Emma Neville, founder of This Is Me, who delivered a powerful and thought-provoking talk at Crow Wood Hotel addressing menopause awareness, wider women’s health issues and the importance of fostering open, supportive workplace cultures.

Emma encouraged attendees to lead positive change within their organisations by normalising conversations around women’s health and ensuring colleagues feel understood and supported.

Emma said: “It’s clear there’s a strong and supportive business community here in Burnley. I founded This Is Me to open up honest conversations and help break

the stigma surrounding menopause and other issues that impact women. Events like today are so important in building understanding, so people feel better equipped to support their colleagues and create more inclusive workplaces.”

Burnley place brand manager Rachel Bayley added: “Burnley businesses have so many strong women at the heart of their organisations, so it felt important to host this event and highlight the health issues that impact so many women across the workforce. Emma’s story was truly inspiring, and everyone in the room will have taken away valuable insights and practical tips they can use both personally and in the workplace.”

The event provided an opportunity for Burnley Bondholders to connect, reflect and gain practical insight into how businesses can create more inclusive environments that enable women to thrive.

Scope Fire & Security and Scope

Electrical Engineering mark a new chapter with move to Bank Parade

Burnley Bondholder Scope Fire & Security and sister company Scope Electrical Engineering are proud to announce the official opening of their brand new headquarters at 60 Bank Parade, Burnley, a landmark move that represents a significant chapter in the growth of both businesses. The relocation coincides with Scope Fire & Security’s sixth birthday, marking six years since the company was founded in 2020 with just two members of staff.

From those humble beginnings, Scope has grown into a thriving group of 30 professionals across both companies, a testament to the dedication of the team and the trust placed in them by clients across the region and beyond, which echoes their strapline of providing “Total Trust, Total Protection.” The move to 60 Bank Parade is the

physical embodiment of that journey, providing a purposebuilt home for the business to continue its upward trajectory.

DESIGNED FOR PEOPLE AND PERFORMANCE

The new premises is in a stunning Georgian town house and has been thoughtfully designed with three clear goals in mind: to deliver greater operational efficiency for customers, to create a welcoming and professional environment for visitors, and to provide a relaxed and well-designed workspace where staff genuinely enjoy coming to work each day.

Scott Chapman, managing director of Scope Fire & Security and Scope Electrical Engineering said: “We wanted a space that works harder for everyone, our customers, our visitors and, just as importantly, our team. The

people who work at Scope are the reason we’ve been able to grow in the way we have. Having a building designed around their wellbeing and comfort, as well as our operational needs, felt like the right way to recognise that.”

Pete Allen, technical director at Scope, added: “This new building is a huge milestone for us. The extra space will allow us to improve not only our service team but it will increase our capacity for engineer training and remote access work, enabling our team members across both companies to continue to grow and widen their skillsets, which is something we actively encourage.”

As the two companies settle into their new home, the Scope team remain focused on building on the strong foundations laid over the past six years. The past year alone has seen the businesses welcome 11 new team

members in the Fire and Security side of the business to extend its reach to protect 1,631 properties. Recent additions to the client portfolio include prominent local names Fagan & Whalley and Fort Vale, joining established clients such as Silentnight, Boundary Mill Outlets, Marsden Building Society and the easyHotel chain.

With a reputation built on award-winning service, including recognition at the BIBAs, the Red Rose Awards, and a Highly Commended at the 2024 Burnley Business Awards, both companies are well positioned for the next phase of growth.

For more information about Scope Fire & Security and Scope Electrical Engineering, visit scopefireandsecuirty.co.uk, scope-electrical.co.uk, all social media platforms or contact the team directly on 0330 088 4647.

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New East Lancashire bus campaign showcases Burnley success stories

A new campaign on East Lancashire buses has been launched to showcase people who have made successful lives in Burnley.

The campaign has been created by place brand Burnley.co.uk and sees two buses wrapped with the chosen individuals, directing people to head to Burnley.co.uk/madeit to find out their stories. The two buses showcase:

• Justine Bedford, landlady of The Royal Dyche

• Ryan Evans, head distiller at Batch Distillery and founder of ZenTrek Supplements

• Diana DoGood, the alter ego of Ollie Daley

• Ousama Abdallah, founder of Mister Falafel on Burnley Market

• Carrie-Ann Kay, founder of Rene K Couture and Bridal

• Ali Insel, founder of Little Barista

• Jessica Gizon, the teen sporting sensation

• Jay Rodriguez, former Burnley FC now Wrexham FC player

• Navida Naz, a scientist at NASA

• Lauren Saddington, founder of More Than Just a Princess and TikTok star

Rachel Bayley, Burnley place brand manager, said: “We want this campaign to do two main things: to raise aspirations across Burnley and East Lancashire, and to proudly showcase a handful of the people who make our borough so special. Too often, places like Burnley are underestimated, but the reality is we are home to an incredible community of hardworking, talented

and entrepreneurial individuals who are achieving remarkable things.

“The people featured in our campaign represent a cross-section of our community. By putting their stories front and centre, quite literally across East Lancashire, we hope to inspire others to see what’s possible for themselves, regardless of their background or starting point.

“We want people across East Lancashire and further afield to recognise Burnley as a place full of ambition, creativity and opportunity. It’s a welcoming, forwardthinking borough where people from all walks of life can build successful futures, and we’re incredibly proud to celebrate that.” Head to burnley.co.uk/madeit to find out more.

Seriun celebrates new office with thanks to customers and community

Seriun recently welcomed customers, partners and friends to its new Burnley office for a relaxed early evening launch event, marking the next chapter in the company’s growth.

Around 40 guests attended to view the new space, enjoy catering from Simply Classic and catch up with fellow members of the Lancashire business community. Managing Director Richard Lee even stepped behind the bar to mix cocktails and mocktails, setting the tone for an

informal and friendly evening.

During the event, Richard shared a brief reflection on Seriun’s journey since launching in 2003, highlighting the steady growth of the business and the long-standing relationships built with customers over the past two decades.

A key theme of the evening was the company’s commitment to developing its people.

Richard spoke about internal progression within the business, from apprentices through

to senior roles, describing promotion from within as central to Seriun’s approach. Operations director Mark Edwards echoed those sentiments, reflecting on how the company has evolved from traditional break-fix IT support to a more proactive, consultative service focused on people as much as technology. He also highlighted the rapid growth of Seriun’s cybersecurity division, led by Wayne Fulton, and introduced a new AI

division headed up by James Stott, signalling the company’s continued focus on innovation.

More than just a launch event, the evening celebrated the relationships and partnerships that have supported Seriun’s development to date. The opening of the Burnley office represents both a milestone and a statement of intent, as the business continues to invest in its team, its services and the local community it serves.

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 at www. culture.burnley.co.uk

Lancashire IT specialist launches new brand to bring bespoke software within reach of local SMEs

Bandicoot, the IT support and cyber security company that has been based in Burnley since 2004, has announced the launch of OctoSystems, a new brand dedicated to designing and building bespoke business software for small and medium-sized organisations across the north west.

Bespoke software development has always been part of what Bandicoot does. Over more than twenty years, the team has built custom systems for clients across a range of sectors - replacing spreadsheets, disconnected tools, and manual processes with platforms designed around the way each business operates. What is changing with OctoSystems is the focus: a dedicated brand, a clearer offer, and a deliberate effort to reach businesses that have always assumed this kind of work was out of their budget.

OctoSystems is the company’s response to that gap in the market.

“We have been building bespoke systems for clients for well over twenty years. It’s not a new string to our bow - it’s

something we have been doing quietly alongside our IT support and cyber security work for a long time. What we kept finding was that businesses we spoke to simply didn’t think this kind of thing was available to them at a sensible price. They assumed it was something only larger organisations could afford, so they carried on managing with spreadsheets and workarounds that were costing them time every single day.

OctoSystems is our way of making that experience more visible and more accessible. We know how to build systems that work and we know how to do it without overcomplicating the process or overcharging for it,” explains Stuart Bowen, managing director, Bandicoot and OctoSystems.

OctoSystems sits alongside Bandicoot’s established IT support and cyber security services, with both businesses headquartered in Burnley. More information is available at octosystems.co.uk.

©Burnley Leisure & Culture.

HOW INDUSTRY LED EDUCATION IS POWERING LANCASHIRE’S FUTURE WORKFORCE

At East Lancashire Learning Group, we work closely with employers to shape curriculum, strengthen skills and support long term economic growth across Lancashire. By placing industry at the heart of what we do, we ensure learners are prepared not just for their first job, but for sustainable careers in a changing economy.

Excellence Through Partnership

For more than 20 years, we have maintained an Ofsted Outstanding rating, a unique national achievement. The Department for Education’s latest National Achievement Rate Tables also confirm that we are the number one general further education college in the country, ranked first for 16 to 18 achievement and for progress across A Level, academic and technical qualifications. These outcomes reflect high quality teaching, strong leadership and

clear ambition for our learners. Academic success alone is no longer enough. Employers across Lancashire face skills shortages, rapid technological change and increasing competition for talent. Education works best when it is shaped alongside the businesses and sectors it serves.

This belief led to the development of our Industry Boards, which place employers at the centre of curriculum design and delivery.

Education Designed With Employers

Our Industry Boards bring together employers, sector specialists and teaching professionals to review course content, qualifications and delivery. Regular collaboration ensures learning reflects current industry practice and emerging trends. Employers share insight into the technologies they use, the standards they expect and the skills they need. Teaching teams use this insight to keep learning relevant and meaningful for learners.

As Nicola Hall, Director for Curriculum Innovation and Partnerships, explains, this collaboration is based on honesty and challenge.

“We welcome employers challenging us. Their insight helps ensure learners develop the abilities, behaviours and mindset that truly matter in the workplace.”

This ongoing dialogue allows the curriculum to evolve alongside industry.

Preparing Learners for the Realities of Work

From the outset, learners are exposed to real world expectations and professional standards. Across sectors including digital, advanced manufacturing, construction and health and social care, they gain hands on experience using industry standard equipment and software.

Alongside technical competence, we place strong emphasis on communication, teamwork and problem solving. Employers consistently tell us these skills matter. This approach builds confidence, clarity and smoother transitions into employment, apprenticeships or further study.

Looking to the Future

As the world of work continues to evolve, Industry Boards will play an increasingly important role. Technological change and shifting career paths require education to remain flexible and responsive. By working together, educators and employers can ensure learners develop not only qualifications, but the confidence and adaptability needed for long term careers.

Supporting Lancashire’s Economic Growth

By aligning education with regional economic priorities, our Industry Boards support Lancashire’s wider growth and resilience. This shared approach strengthens the link between education and employment, benefiting learners, employers and the local economy.

Industry Board in Action

CLAIRE PYE

VTCT Skills

Head of Sales

FE & ITP

“The Industry Board helps ensure that ELLG meets the needs of the local area. Initiatives like this bring education and employers together, helping everyone fully understand the challenges. I would encourage employers to get involved, as they can have a direct impact.”.

CREATING A STRONGER TALENT PIPELINE FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Our Industry Boards give employers a practical way to influence future workforce development.

RECRUIT JOB READY TALENT

Many employers recruit directly from our learners, confident they understand the sector and workplace expectations

BUILD YOUR SUCCESSION PIPELINE

Working with us allows businesses to anticipate future skills needs and help develop the next generation of talent.

REDUCE ONBOARDING TIME AND COSTS

Learners trained on industry standard systems adapt faster, reducing time to productivity and recruitment costs.

Join Our Industry Boards

We invite employers across Lancashire to join our Industry Boards and partner with the number one college in the country to help shape the future workforce in all industries offering entry-level careers.

• Business, Law & Professional Services

• Childcare & Education

• Construction

• Digital & Creative

• Engineering & Motor Vehicle

• Health, Science & Social Care

• Hair

• Sport & Uniformed Services

From Burnley to Westminster

InFebruary, a delegation of business leaders from across Burnley headed to Westminster to ensure the borough is listened to by policymakers.

Around 40 representatives of the Burnley Bondholders, a 200-strong business network that collectively champions and lobbies on behalf of Burnley, were hosted at the House of Lords by Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley and Oliver Ryan MP.

The group, which included leaders from Panaz, Safran Nacelles, VEKA plc, BCW, Fagan & Whalley, Burnley College, Stolle, CRC Evans and many more, asked ministers and MPs to consider northern towns like Burnley when creating policies.

Lord Khan of Burnley opened the event, saying: “Burnley is sometimes talked about in terms of its past. We’re proud of that history, but we’re here to talk about the present and the future. The Burnley Bondholders represent around 200 businesses across manufacturing, engineering, digital, retail, hospitality and education. Together, they form an economy that consistently punches above its weight. Manufacturing and engineering alone account for around 16 per cent of all employment, making Burnley one of the most manufacturingintensive places in the country.

“That matters nationally. At a time when productivity, exports and resilience are high on the agenda, places like Burnley are not on the margins of the debate; they are central to it.”

Mid-cap and family-owned firms form the backbone of the UK economy

The debate was kicked off with a panel of mid-sized and family-owned businesses, comprising: Tony Attard OBE, Panaz | Sam Fagan, Fagan & Whalley | Mark Crabtree, AMS Neve | Claire Whelan, BCW Group | Nathan Proctor, Proctor Process Plant.

The discussion was chaired by Richard Slater from Lancashire Business View.

The delegates, who included Chris Bryant MP, Minister for Trade, and Lucy Rigby KC MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, heard how Burnley’s mid-sized, familyowned firms form a UK-style Mittelstand. Mittelstand is a German term for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), often family-owned with a long-term focus, that drive the economy. These businesses are globally competitive, export-led and locally anchored, and make up 99 per cent of Germany’s economy.

Like their German counterparts, Burnley’s “Mittelstand” drives national economic returns through manufacturing, logistics and advanced audio technology, supported by strong local ecosystems including skills, land, council support and education. To sustain investment and prevent offshoring, the panel called for stable, consistent policy; targeted support for manufacturing, defence, R&D and digital adoption; funded skills pathways including HGV drivers and semi-skilled craftsmanship; clear, financed sustainability transitions; and relief from rising input costs.

The panel also asked policymakers to engage directly by visiting manufacturers in Burnley and placing mid-sized firms at the centre of national strategy.

Key points

• Burnley’s concentrated mid-market delivers outsized national returns via exports, skilled jobs and supply chain integration, especially in defence and advanced manufacturing.

• A strong local ecosystem, including skills pipelines, available land, reliable energy, proactive council support and links with Burnley College and the University of Lancashire, underpins resilience and long-term growth.

• The Mittelstand model fits Burnley: niche, agile, globally competitive firms anchored locally with long-term horizons and deep institutional ties.

Feature : Westminster

• Policy consistency and targeted support in manufacturing, defence, digital adoption, regional growth funding and R&D tax credits catalyse capital-intensive investment and innovation.

• Rising input and regulatory costs, including fuel duty, energy and unfunded sustainability mandates, threaten margins and risk offshoring. Clear funding and infrastructure for net zero transitions are essential.

• Acute labour constraints, including HGV drivers and undervalued semi-skilled manufacturing roles, require funded training, collegeindustry curriculum co-design, boot camps, and clarity around immigration and retention.

• Family business values such as vision, continuity and employee wellbeing translate into durable employment, community investment and scalable growth. Succession-friendly tax frameworks support continuity.

• Policymakers should visit manufacturers to understand real-world impacts and scale what works in Burnley nationally.

Key panel insights

Richard Slater, Lancashire Business View

Burnley’s mid-market is larger and more productive than widely recognised. Integrating these firms into national industrial strategy would strengthen productivity, skills development and export performance.

Claire Whelan, BCW

Regional growth funding and sustained investment in machinery and workforce development have been transformative for manufacturers. Policy stability, alongside defence sector support, is critical to counter offshoring pressures and safeguard UK manufacturing capacity.

Mark Crabtree, AMS Neve

Global success is driven by passion for craft and brand heritage. Growth is constrained by space limitations and shortages of semi-skilled labour. He advocates stronger collaboration with colleges and greater recognition of handassembly craftsmanship as a specialist skill.

Sam Fagan, Fagan & Whalley

Local council backing has supported business expansion. However, rising fuel duty and driver shortages are increasing operating costs and limiting growth. He calls for funded HGV training pathways and practical, infrastructure-led plans for fleet electrification and power supply.

Nathan Proctor, Proctor Process Plant

A disciplined approach to cash management, long-term relationships and structured R&D, including a “Moonbeam” innovation pipeline, underpins resilience. Policy volatility delays capital investment, while consistent frameworks enable confident five-to-ten-year planning.

Tony Attard, Panaz

Despite strong post-COVID growth, high UK energy costs and levies are eroding competitiveness, prompting consideration of overseas expansion. Digital manufacturing programmes provide support, but cumulative legislation increases cost pressures. Succession planning and inheritance tax also remain critical issues for long-term continuity.

Both Chris Bryant MP and Lucy Rigby KC MP were sympathetic to the challenges faced by places like Burnley and the businesses within them.

Burnley: a thriving digital and tech hub

Burnley is not just a borough of makers. It is also home to a thriving digital and tech hub, with delegates keen to highlight to government that tech ecosystems exist outside cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds and deserve investment. The second panel was made up of representatives from the digital sector and included: Dave Walker, +24 | Leon Calverley, Door4 Mark Edwards, Seriun | Adam Patterson, Safran. The discussion was chaired by Cat Mawdsley from Northern Reach.

Burnley’s leaders, business owners and ecosystem managers positioned the town as an emerging force in digital technology and advanced manufacturing. They highlighted its collaborative culture, where businesses, educators and local stakeholders work closely to accelerate innovation and problem-solving.

A key strength is access to talent. Strong partnerships with colleges,

universities and training providers are developing skills pipelines aligned to employer needs, particularly in digital, engineering and advanced manufacturing. Panellists stressed that expanding and protecting these pathways will be vital to meeting workforce demand through 2030.

Affordability was cited as a competitive advantage. Lower operating costs and accessible commercial space, compared with larger city regions, allow businesses to scale sustainably and reinvest in technology, equipment and people.

Key points

• Burnley’s digital tech sector is already delivering across industries, anchored by collaboration between business, education and local government.

• Talent access and retention are stronger in Burnley than nearby large cities, supported by affordability, lifestyle and community ties.

• Advanced manufacturing competitiveness now depends on digitalisation, including automation, data and AI, not just traditional reliability and cost.

• The primary growth constraint is the digital skills gap. Solutions include modular upskilling, closer industry-education integration and digital-native mindsets.

• Policy support, including a stable business environment, attractive return on investment and R&D incentives, accelerates innovation and keeps global investment local.

• Agglomeration and tech hubs enable SMEs to scale by linking into larger supply chains, buffering labour shocks and fostering collaboration.

• A culture of entrepreneurial risktaking is essential to navigate fast-moving AI-driven markets.

• Burnley’s identity, rooted in grit, care and partnership, underpins a credible 2030 ambition to lead as a northern technology hub. Oliver Ryan MP said: “Burnley Bondholders are an incredible network and a real testament to the grit, determination and dedication Burnley has to offer. I’m so proud of Burnley and was particularly proud to host everyone in Parliament to showcase the very best of us.

“Whilst I see and hear what businesses in Burnley, Padiham and Brierfield need every day, bringing the Bondholders down to talk with ministers and MPs was invaluable. We’re not Manchester, not Leeds and not London. We’re Burnley, Padiham and Brierfield. We have our own needs, ambitions and circumstances, and we deserve to be heard as loudly as everywhere else.

“Our town is incredible, with so much to offer. We had everything from a popup Royal Dyche to a full sound system by AMS. Getting everyone to try benny and hots was a highlight that I’ll never forget.

“We truly showed that Burnley means business. We came with a clear purpose: to ensure the voices of our local businesses were heard. Burnley has an incredibly bright future, and the Bondholders are central to that. I want to thank everyone who made the event possible, including the Burnley place brand team, the team in my office, Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley and especially the businesses who gave their time to represent our town. Burnley means business and we proved it that day.”

An impactful event

Following the Burnley Bondholders visit to the House of Lords, another success story has emerged as a direct result of the event.

Mark Crabtree, founder of Burnleybased global sound technology firm AMS Neve, recently hosted Chris Barton CMG, Director for Local and International Growth at the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). Chris toured the advanced

manufacturing facility and learned more about the support medium-sized firms in places like Burnley require.

Key issues discussed included regulatory coordination, finance, skills, supply chain resilience and taxation. Chris later posted on LinkedIn that these discussions would inform the work of the DBT to support business growth across the UK.

The successful visit followed Mark’s contribution at the House of Lords event, where he spoke with Minister for Trade Sir Chris Bryant and Paul Evans of the DBT about the importance of mediumsized businesses to the UK economy. Many such businesses feel government policy often overlooks their needs, and as a result of that conversation, a visit to Burnley was arranged for Chris Barton.

The Westminster event demonstrated the strength, ambition and national importance of Burnley’s business community. From advanced manufacturing to digital innovation, local firms are driving growth, exports and skilled employment while remaining deeply rooted in their community. The visit not only gave business leaders a direct platform to influence policymakers but also reinforced the case for more consistent, place-based support to unlock the full potential of towns like Burnley. The continued engagement that followed shows the event was not just symbolic, but a meaningful step towards shaping policy and investment in support of regional economies. Watch this space for what the Burnley Bondholders do next.

New ownership signals fresh chapter for Batch Distillery

Anexciting new chapter is underway for Batch Distillery, the Burnley-based craft spirits producer, following a change in ownership that marks both continuity and renewed ambition for the independent brand. What makes this moment particularly special is that the new owners began their journey not as industry insiders, but as customers and longstanding members of Batch’s Innovations Club, who fell in love with the creativity, community, and quality behind every release. Their favourite, Industrial Strength Gin, remains the spirit they proudly call the best in the world, a claim backed by its Double Gold win at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2018, where it also took home the title of Best Gin after a series of blind tastings.

Husband-and-wife team Jamie and Sharlene Butterfield have taken ownership of the business, bringing a shared vision for growth while keeping the distillery’s local identity at its core.

BUILDING ON A LOCAL SUCCESS STORY

Founded in Burnley in 2011, Batch Distillery has grown from small beginnings into an award-winning name in the craft spirits market. What started as a modest operation has developed into a recognised brand, with products stocked by premium retailers and reaching customers beyond the UK.

CONTINUITY ALONGSIDE CHANGE

Although ownership has changed, the transition is being managed to ensure stability within the business. Head distiller and director Ryan will remain in his role, providing continuity in production and maintaining the quality and consistency that customers expect. Ryan said:

I am really looking forward to working with Jamie and Sharlene, from day one they have brought a renewed energy and enthusiasm to the business.”

Previous owner Phil will also stay involved for a period during the transition, supporting the handover and helping to ensure that knowledge and experience are

This measured approach reflects a wider pattern across the craft drinks sector, where continuity is often prioritised to protect brand integrity and customer trust.

COMPETITIVE MARKET

The change in leadership comes at a time when the UK’s craft spirits industry is facing both opportunity and pressure. Demand for premium products remains strong, but producers are navigating rising costs and an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The business has built its reputation on small-batch production, distinctive flavour profiles, and a strong sense of place. While Batch is best known for its gins, the distillery also produces an impressive vodka, along with a small but growing range of whisky and rum, which the new owners are keen to expand as part of their long-term development plans.

Its gins in particular have helped establish Batch as one of East Lancashire’s standout independent producers, but the broader spirits range reflects the creativity and ambition that first drew the Butterfields to the brand as Innovations Club members.

The couple have made clear that this identity will remain central to the company’s direction. Their focus is on preserving the character of the brand while creating new opportunities to expand its reach, including being more present at artisan markets and local events so more people can taste the spirits for themselves. As the team often says: once people taste Batch, they understand what a proper gin should taste like.

New owner Jamie explains how the couple are eager to build on the strong foundations already in place: “We are really proud to be the new owners of Batch and excited to take this Burnley brand forward with renewed energy. Phil and the wider team created a fantastic business and we are looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together. We have already been out meeting local businesses to explore how we can work more closely with the community.”

Against this backdrop, the new owners are expected to pursue growth through expanded distribution, product development, and stronger direct engagement with customers. This includes a renewed focus on attending local artisan markets, food festivals, and community events across Burnley and Lancashire, giving people the chance to taste Batch spirits first-hand.

Batch has already been active on the local scene, recently hosting a pop-up bar at the Burnley FC Women’s promotion celebration at Towneley Hall. “It was great to be part of the celebrations,” Jamie said. “The club is at the heart of the town, just like local businesses.” Looking to the future Jamie added:

“We are so proud to be based in Burnley and we value the support we’ve already received from local businesses. Our aim is to get Batch in as many local venues as possible, whilst also spreading the word further afield.”

With a clear focus on authenticity, product quality, and local pride, Batch Distillery is well placed to build on its foundations and enter its next phase with confidence. Customers can explore the full range, including the award-winning Industrial Strength Gin, the Innovations Club releases, the premium vodka, and the developing whisky and rum lines, at batchdistillery.co.uk, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram where you’ll see more opportunities than ever to meet the team and taste the spirits at events throughout the year.

Feature : Burnley Business Awards

BURNLEY BUSINESS AWARDS 2026 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

The finalists of the Burnley Business Awards 2026 have been revealed, after a tough round of shortlisting for the judges.

Businesses in the borough entered in their droves, with 150 entries received, reflecting our entrepreneurial spirit.

VEKA plc is the generous headline sponsor of the 600-attendee event at Towneley Hall in July and their support has been invaluable in ensuring an incredible evening takes place. The organisers are Burnley Borough Council, with the cost of the event fully covered by sponsorship and ticket sales.

Judges from the category sponsors, Burnley Borough Council and independent third parties met at Impact Conferencing to whittle down the entries and they decided on the following finalists:

Environmental, Social and Governance

• Albert Harrison & Co Ltd

• Fagan and Whalley

• Pendleside Hospice

• RECYCLEIT

sponsored by

Headline Sponsor

Not-For-Profit

• Basically Cheer CIC

• Burnley FC in the Community

• Burnley Leisure and Culture

• Healthier Heroes CIC

• New Era North West Ltd

• Participation Works NW

• Pendleside Hospice

• Primary Engineer

Organised by

Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality

• Above Hotels

• Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort

• Dempsey’s

• Ellis’s

Employer of

the Year

• Birchall Foodservice

• Pendleside Hospice

• Seriun

• The Calico Group Ltd

• Thorne Fire and Security

• HAPPA – Horses and Ponies Protection Association

• Prairie Sports Village

• The Royal Dyche

• Safenet Domestic Abuse and Support Services sponsored by sponsored by sponsored by sponsored by

Young Employee of the Year

• CRC Evans

– Hollie Mayhew

• JonSimon Estate Agents

– Harvey Crawford

• Smile Mediation Ltd

– Ella Regan

• Woodlands Assist Global UK Ltd

– Chloe Wallace

Feature : Burnley Business Awards

Small Business (26-49 employees)

• BAAS Construction Limited

• Process Instruments

• Scope Fire & Security Ltd

• Seriun

• Waddington & Son

Medium Business (50-250 employees)

• Balmers GM Ltd

• Birchall Foodservice

• LCM Environmental Services Ltd

• Panaz

sponsored by sponsored by

Micro Business (0-10 employees)

• CheckedSafe

• Clearview Cattery

• CUBE HR

• JonSimon Burnley Ltd –JonSimon Estate Agents

• MonkeyFish Group

• Proximity Coach Travel

• The Royal Dyche

• Walton and Walton

sponsored by

Large Business (over 250 employees)

• BCW Group

• CRC Evans

• Fagan and Whalley

• Safran Nacelles

• VEKA plc

Manufacturing Excellence

• HycAero Ltd

• Life Lab Ltd

• Proctor Process Plant Ltd

• Process Instruments (UK) Ltd

• Safran Nacelles

• TCB Signage ltd

• VEKA plc

Innovation

• AMS Neve Limited

• Eluceda

• Gener8 Spaces

• Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions Ltd

• Process Instruments (UK) Ltd

• Proctor Process Plant Ltd

• Safran Nacelles

sponsored by

Small Business (11-25 employees)

• Aged to Perfection Bespoke Upholstery LTD

• Gener8 Spaces Ltd

• LED Controls

• Neuro-Sparks Business Solutions Ltd

• Thorne Fire and Security sponsored by

Lukman Patel, chief executive at Burnley Council, said: “I know the judges were incredibly impressed by the entries and it was a tough job to whittle 150 down to the finalists. This was especially the case in the micro business category, which accounted for a fifth of total entries.

“It’s testament to the hard work and resilience of our business community and I’d like to thank Burnley businesses for their commitment to raising the prosperity of the borough. And to those who did not make the finals, please do not be disheartened, the volume

of entries was high, and we’d certainly encourage you to bring your success stories to us once again at the next Burnley Business Awards.

“All the best to the finalists and we look forward to celebrating the borough’s determination on the night of the awards. We’re delighted it can once again be held at Towneley Hall following its extensive restoration. I’d also like to once again thank all of our sponsors and judges, in particular our headline sponsor VEKA, who are celebrating 40 years of being in the borough.”

WITH THANKS TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS:

Greenarc:

The Padiham-based business reshaping the future of fuel, fleet insight and net zero support

When Greenarc moved into Business First at Shuttleworth Mead Business Park three and a half years ago, the company had already outgrown its previous premises. Today, the business is almost unrecognisable from its early days. It has become one of the fastest growing fuel card resellers in the UK and a leading voice in the transition to cleaner, smarter fleet management.

Greenarc is a spin off from Craggs Energy, the long established North West fuel distributor founded in 2011. Craggs built its reputation by delivering reliable fuel solutions to commercial, agricultural and domestic customers across Lancashire, Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. The business expanded further with the acquisition of Moorland Fuels in 2020 and later became a fully employee-owned organisation. This shift created a new culture of empowerment and paved the way for the launch of Greenarc, a brand designed to challenge the traditional fuel card market.

A MARKET READY FOR DISRUPTION

Fuel cards have historically been a simple maintain and retain product. They tracked spend but offered little insight and even less innovation. Greenarc saw an opportunity to do things differently. Instead of focusing on price alone, the business built a model centred on customer needs, operational intelligence and the journey to net zero.

In just four years, Greenarc has secured partnerships with major brands including Shell, Esso and Texaco. It has introduced new card types that were not previously available in the market and has become the fastest growing reseller in its sector. The company now offers a full portfolio of cards, including an EV charging card for electric vehicles, access to renewable fuels and options that support carbon offsetting.

The start of 2026 marked a major milestone. Greenarc was appointed to the Crown Commercial Service framework and became an official Shell reseller. Both appointments are considered game changers for the business and have already accelerated growth. They also strengthen Greenarc’s position as a valued partner for organisations seeking both fuel solutions and guidance on their sustainability commitments.

“We recognised early on that the fuel card market was overdue for change,” says CEO Matthew Crockett. “Businesses don’t just want a way to pay for fuel anymore. They want insight, control and a partner that can help them navigate the transition to net zero.”

DRIVEN BY INSIGHT, POWERED BY PARTNERSHIP

Greenarc’s approach is built on the belief that fuel cards should be more than a payment method; they should be a source of intelligence. The company coaches its team to listen closely to customers, understand their operations and recommend the right card based on mileage, routes and driver behaviour.

Greenarc have recently launched The Arc, an app that will give customers access to real-time information on legislation changes, cost saving opportunities based on the stations they use, route analysis and driver habits. It will also integrate carbon reporting, telematics and EV charging data. As fleets transition to electric, hybrid, hydrogen and low carbon fuels, Greenarc aims to become the single data layer that connects all operational insight in one place.

The company’s expertise in net zero is another key differentiator. Staff are coached to guide customers through Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, carbon offsetting and alternative fuels. Greenarc works with partners to provide step-by-step support in line with the PPN06 procurement rule and offers reporting tools that help businesses understand and reduce their environmental impact.

“Our goal is to simplify what is often a very complex journey,” Crockett adds. “Whether a business is just starting to think about emissions or actively transitioning its fleet, we want to provide clarity, data and practical solutions that make a real difference.”

A PEOPLE-FIRST CULTURE

Despite its investment in technology and AI, Greenarc is clear that its success depends on people. Culture is a major priority for CEO Matthew Crockett and the leadership team. The business recently refreshed its workspace to create a modern, welcoming environment and has enhanced wages and benefits to attract and retain talent. Early Friday finishes, increased annual leave and a strong benefits package are designed to counter the jobhopping culture that affects many industries.

“AI and technology play an important role in what we do, but they will never replace the value of human understanding,” says Crockett. “Our people are trained to listen, ask the right questions and really get under the skin of each business we work with. That’s what allows us to deliver solutions that genuinely fit, rather than a one size fits all approach.”

Greenarc also places great importance on community. The company has partnered with Pendleside Hospice, giving staff opportunities to socialise, volunteer and support a cause that matters locally. This sense of shared purpose is reflected in the company’s values which focus on integrity, forward thinking, customer advocacy and working together as one team.

LOOKING AHEAD

With investment in people, technology, AI and a strong workplace culture, Greenarc is positioning itself at the forefront of a rapidly changing industry. Its partnerships with Shell and the CCS framework signal a new phase of growth and its commitment to insight driven solutions sets it apart from traditional fuel card providers.

As the UK moves towards a low carbon future, Greenarc aims to be more than a supplier. It intends to be a partner that guides businesses through the transition, offering the tools, expertise and support they need to operate efficiently and sustainably.

THE

AI and technology play an important role in what we do, but they will never replace the value of human understanding says Crockett

FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR THIS AMBITIOUS BUSINESS AND ITS JOURNEY IS ONLY JUST

BEGINNING.

A COMPASSIONATE DISRUPTOR: The rapid rise of Beloved Pets

One of the best things about working for the Burnley.co.uk place brand is we get to discover talented people and businesses who we may not normally come across. That can be said for Beloved Pets, a Burnley-based business which came to our attention when we noticed they had won a Red Rose Award 2026 for customer service.

After conducting initial research, we discovered the relatively new company has only been in operation since 2023 and already has over 1,250 and counting five-star Google reviews. Beloved Pets provides home euthanasia and individual pet cremation, and whilst this may not be the cheeriest of topics, the comfort this bespoke service provides grieving pet owners is clear to see - after all, we’re a nation of pet lovers.

It’s quite a niche business, so how did the idea come about for founders Mark and Heather?

Heather explains: “I lost my first dog Zac and of course, I was distraught. The process that followed just made the situation more upsetting for me. After he was put to sleep, the vet asked whether I wanted a “scatter tube or urn” with no explanation or information about timescales. I told them I wanted Zac to have an individual cremation but to be honest, what happened next made me question whether I got my wish.

“I was informed by the vet I’d be reunited with him in seven to ten days, but weeks passed and I was still given no answers. The crematorium just said, “how are we supposed to know where he is?” not the words a grieving pet owner wants to hear. Meanwhile, the vet said the crematorium had him! Miraculously, Zac was returned the very next day, although of course I questioned whether it really was him.”

Leaning on her partner Mark for support, the couple decided there must be a better way. They realised there was a gap in the market for a bespoke and caring service which provides pet owners with updates every step of the way. After doing their research and creating a pet collection and individual crematorium business model, the pair launched Beloved Pets in 2023.

Little did they know, it would be an almost overnight success story.

OFF TO A FLYING START

“Just one week after our website went live in December 2023, we had our first request - the collection of a 55kg Dogue de Bordeaux! People often think of little fluffy dogs and cats when they think of pet services, this couldn’t be further from the truth. We see all types of pets, from hamsters to dragons, and all these pets are part of their owners’ families. We did have a moment where we thought ‘wow, this just got real’. It’s a hugely important part of someone’s life and we’re honoured to support them, so we really wanted to get it right,” Mark says.

They definitely got it right. Mark and Heather provide a 24/7 365 days a year service and every month bar two since they opened their doors has been a record month. Heather was able to quit her NHS role in April 2024 so she could concentrate on the business full time alongside Mark, and they have had to recruit fairly quickly to accommodate demand, as word of mouth spread amongst pet lovers in and around Burnley.

Mark continues: “We did everything ourselves for the first 12 months, but with us receiving enquiries at all hours and the admin side building up, it was time to expand the team. Every one of our six employees has lost a pet. You can’t really teach someone to be empathetic in that situation, so we make sure our team can relate to what our customers are going through.”

Beloved Pets quickly outgrew their original offices at Business First opposite Sycamore Farm. The hunt began for a larger space, which needed to accommodate a quiet room where customers could be reunited with their pets.

“I’m not originally from Burnley, but it really is a great place, both in terms of the people and business support here. My property developer friend told me about this unit we’re sat in at Burnley Bridge Business Park on Magnesium Way and suggested I get in touch with Burnley Council’s business support team. I was put in touch with Martyn Hardacre, who was the first business support officer from a local authority who came to visit me and not just say no. I’ve been really impressed, so when we were searching for premises, we wanted to remain in Burnley due to that support and other reasons, including the location.

“People travel to us from across the north west, so being just off the motorway is perfect for us and them,” Mark states.

The unit also allows owners to be reunited with their pets, where they can also collect their ashes, whether to scatter, to keep or to have turned into special keepsakes like jewellery. Beloved Pets offers a full range of beautiful accessories to remember pets, and that includes a jewellery partner who can turn ashes into pieces for owners to wear. Customers can also bring their other pets with them. Pet owners are all given remembrance packs, which includes fur clippings and paw prints.

THE SUCCESS CONTINUES

In 2024, the home euthanasia service was launched following the original service of individual pet collections and cremations. Heather explains: “People started to ask us if we could help their pets cross over to Rainbow Bridge at home. Some just don’t want to go through such an emotional moment in a corporate vet chain with others outside in the waiting room. I fully understand that from my own experience. We started researching individual vets who aligned to our ethics and values and who were happy to provide visits outside of the usual practice hours.

“We deal with customers whose pets have been involved in house fires or road accidents, for example, so we need to be on call at the time they need us. We have website enquiries come in at all hours of the day; people don’t always want to wait for a vet to open. For the last two years, we’ve provided services every single day; there hasn’t been a day off. That includes Christmas Day. Most vet practices are no longer able to provide home visits to put pets to sleep, which is where we step in.”

It’s clearly a business model that’s working. In year one, turnover was an incredible £210,808. In year two this shot up to almost £800,000 and year three is projected to hit £1.2 million in turnover; quite remarkable, considering most businesses don’t make a profit in their first year (Beloved Pets did). In fact, profit in year two was nine times that of year one! Despite the impressive figures, customer care is still the number one priority, not profit.

So, what next for the Beloved Pets team? Mark concludes: “The goal is to expand and continue to provide compassionate services at affordable prices. We have a few more exciting plans up our sleeves, but we cannot reveal what that is just yet.

“Even though we’re still a relatively young business, we have already had interest from parties who wish to buy us out or invest in some way. However, we have big plans in the pipeline for our growth and new employment opportunities, so we’re not going anywhere anytime soon.”

No doubt their next step will also prove to be a huge success and we’re proud to have such a business in Burnley that is catering to the north west and beyond.

threats don’t wait.

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“We have been working with the team at Bandicoot for many years. Their service has always been outstanding and they are always on hand whenever we have an IT issue.”

Nicola Dugdale, Specialist Training & Consultancy Services Ltd.

Still Running Your Business on Spreadsheets? You’re not alone — but there’s a better way.

Most growing businesses don’t have a systems problem. They have a too many systems problem.

Spreadsheets nobody fully trusts. Software that doesn’t talk to each other. Manual workarounds that have quietly become part of the routine.

It works — until it doesn’t.

OctoSystems builds bespoke business systems for North West companies that are ready to work smarter.

Delivered in weeks, not months

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Hosting, support & security included

Where We Typically Start

Internal dashboards

Workflow automation

Secure client portals

Booking & scheduling

Compliance reporting

Legacy system replacement

Start with a free Discovery Meeting — we’ll identify where one well-designed system could make the biggest difference.

A slice of perfection

THE DOUGH BALL PIZZA COMPANY: Craft, consistency and a commitment to doing it properly.

From the aroma of freshly mixed dough in a small Burnley kitchen to national recognition from some of the UK’s most respected food judges, The Dough Ball Pizza Company has quietly become one of the most trusted names in pizza dough. At its centre is founder Gigi Pillitteri, whose approach is simple: focus on quality, respect the process, and let the product speak for itself.

Raised in an Italian family with strong food traditions, Gigi grew up immersed in kitchen life. Surrounded by the sights, sounds and rhythms of food being made properly, he developed a fascination with dough,

how flour, water, fermentation and time interact, and how small adjustments can completely change the final result.

“Food was always part of everyday life for me,” he says. “It felt natural to want to understand it properly and do it well.”

What began as small-scale recipe development soon gained attention. Customers were not just enjoying the pizzas; they were asking about the dough itself and whether they could buy it to use at home. That interest revealed a clear gap in the market: professionally made dough that delivered consistency and performance

without sacrificing flavour or integrity.

Production moved into a dedicated unit, allowing Gigi to refine his methods and focus on one core objective: producing frozen dough balls that behave like fresh dough when baked. Rather than chasing rapid expansion, the emphasis remained on control, repeatability and process.

Being based in Burnley also plays its part. The local water, naturally soft and low in hardness, is well suited to dough fermentation, helping to create balance and consistency without unnecessary intervention. The process was built around what was already there.

For Gigi, the goal has never been rapid expansion.

“I do not want to be the biggest... I WANT US TO BE KNOWN FOR DOING IT PROPERLY.”

The result is a product trusted by independent pizzerias, retailers and chefs across the UK: dough that is easy to work with, bakes reliably, and reflects traditional fermentation techniques adapted for modern kitchens. That commitment to doing things properly has earned national recognition.

The Dough Ball Pizza Company is now the most awarded pizza dough manufacturer in the UK, with multiple Great Taste Awards over several years, recognition that reflects consistency rather than one-off success.

Behind the scenes, the business operates to equally rigorous standards. It holds SALSA (Safe and Local Supplier Approval) certification and has achieved a SALSA Star for three consecutive years, highlighting excellence in food safety and manufacturing. It is also the only pizza dough manufacturer in the UK certified organic, reinforcing its clean-label approach and commitment to ingredient transparency.

More recently, the company has begun working towards B Corp certification, aligning operations with broader goals around sustainability, ethics and long-term responsibility.

Alongside manufacturing, Gigi has created a dedicated space for training and learning, where businesses can send staff to develop pizza-making skills and gain a deeper understanding of dough. Equipped with its own pizza oven and informal seating, the space has hosted professional training sessions, team-building events and community visits.

“Pizza is a great entry point into food,” Gigi explains. “People already love it, so it becomes an accessible way to talk about ingredients, technique and process.” This approach also inspired Gigi to work closely with local schools, showing students how to make pizzas, something he is keen to do more of in the future.

With The Dough Ball Pizza Company producing dough for a wide range of brands, many people have likely eaten

one of its pizzas without realising it. Now, with the launch of Dough to Door, Gigi is bringing that same professionalquality dough directly to home cooks.

Dough to Door allows customers to order frozen dough balls by post, ready to be stored in the freezer and used whenever the mood for pizza strikes. Designed to be simple and flexible, the service gives home pizza-makers access to the same dough used by professionals without compromising on fermentation, ingredients or performance.

For those who enjoy experimenting, Dough to Door also offers a rotating selection of styles, giving customers the chance to explore different dough characteristics and discover new favourites. A gluten-free option is available, and all varieties are suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.

Ask Gigi what makes the dough special, and the answer is simple.

“It’s about respecting the process,” he says. “Good dough does not need shortcuts. It needs the right ingredients, time, and consistency.”

That philosophy runs through every step of production. From carefully selected flours to controlled fermentation and freezing at peak maturity, each stage preserves quality rather than rushing it. Being based in Burnley also helps, with naturally soft local water lending itself well to fermentation and balance, something the process is built around rather than artificially altering.

The result is dough that performs reliably in real kitchens, whether professional or domestic, reflected in the loyalty of customers who return again and again.

You do not need specialist equipment to get great results at home.

“Get your oven as hot as it will go,” Gigi says. “Preheat a heavy tray or pizza stone for at least 30 minutes, and do not overload the toppings. If the dough is right, the rest follows.”

Children and young people under 16 can enjoy free public swimming with a paying adult at St Peter’s and Padiham Leisure Centres.

Supported by Burnley Borough Council

*T&Cs apply. See website for details.

SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE

Five decades of: Trust Reliability Unmatched Experience

STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

Ina world which can often feel focused on short-term gains and immediate wins, there is something to be said for consistency and playing the long game. A large proportion of Burnley’s economy is built on companies that were founded decades ago and often multi-generational employees who remain proud to work there. The leaders of these firms understand that through passion, determination and being steadfast in both the highs and lows, great things can be achieved - but they often taken time.

It felt fitting to shine the spotlight on several businesses in our area which are evidence that long-term hard work pays off. Take Surridge Sports, which Geoff Lord established 50 years ago and now runs alongside his sons Patrick and Charles (with grandchildren Lydia and Will waiting in the wings). What used to solely operate as a sports trophy business has evolved into quality UK sports and education teamwear, with the Burnley business supplying cricket uniforms to half of the UK’s professional county teams. This is quite the achievement, but is the result of decades of hard work and patience.

The same can be said for construction giant Barnfield. The company was founded by Tim Webber in the 1970s after his employer went

into administration, and Tim, who had a young family to support, needed to pivot, and fast. It’s hard to believe that this multi-million-pound business was shunned by banks in the early days, but the tenacity of Tim and his ability to spot market trends meant he took every opportunity he could find. The rest as they say, is history.

It’s hard to imagine East Lancashire without Barnfield and the same can be said for VEKA plc. The PVCu window and door manufacturer arrived in Burnley 40 years ago when the German owners were looking for a UK base. Burnley ticked all the boxes, not least the speedy and helpful response by Burnley Council. Like every industry, there have been highs and lows, but managing director Neil Evans explains how VEKA plc is still committed to being a dependable employer in Burnley.

CRC Evans are leaders in their field, but many might not realise that this global coating and welding specialist has had a base in Burnley for 40 years. Not only that, but this global player has recently announced plans for a 90,000 sq ft international centre of excellence at Frontier Park Burnley. This doubling down on our borough shows how long-term commitment can drive sustainable growth both locally and globally.

Ultimately, these businesses prove that true success is rarely built overnight. Their longevity is rooted in resilience, loyalty and a long-term commitment to both their industries and Burnley itself.

In Focus : Surridge Sports

THREE GENERATIONS, ONE VISION: The SDL Group Story

Burnley is full of hidden gems and back in March, I found another one which you may or may not be aware of. Nestled amongst an array of fantastic businesses on Network 65 is the SDL Group Ltd, a successful family business where three generations of Lords have come together.

Geoff Lord, alongside his sons Charles and Patrick, with Lydia and Will (Geoff’s grandchildren) in the wings, are running a tight ship where service, quality and price are the key drivers behind a sports business that deserves podium position.

Almost fifty years ago a young Geoff set up SDL with a business partner. Fast forward to 1990 and the company became wholly owned by the Lord family.

2026 has already seen them expand into Ireland, with Gaelic sports being one of their next targets, as well as private schools in the Middle East. These are two very different markets that will both benefit from the SDL and Surridge effect.

I sat down with the irrefutable Geoff, passionate Charles and straight-talking Patrick to find out more about their remarkable journey.

As Geoff approaches his 80th birthday he shows

no signs of slowing down, a positive for son Charles who says, “confidence is given to us by his presence.” Charles appreciates being able to approach his dad for reassurance as the business continues to grow, with critical decisions being made daily.

The company is split into brands with the key two being SDL Trophy and Surridge Sport. Patrick leads the way for the trophies with Charles concentrating on the sportswear, two brothers managing sixty people, with Geoff commenting “it’s the strongest team we’ve ever had”. Whilst both brands have differing markets, wholesale distribution to retail outlets is the common factor.

With regular visits to multiple suppliers, Patrick is nonstop as the trophy business develops. With the average age of a trophy recipient being between 4 and 14 you can imagine the design challenges being faced. Patrick said:

“We’ve seen designs change over the years and now we’re being asked for more bling and more colour. Where traditionally we might have used a team’s colours on a trophy, now we’re being asked to brighten those up.”

SDL sell to a variety of industries with football and dance being at the forefront of sales. Schools and other sports play their part as well, so it’s important that pricing and quality are where they need to be,

something that Patrick speaks to suppliers about when he’s overseas. Long-term relationships have been formed with these suppliers who have proved themselves to be reliable, a positive for the team as they look to develop new products.

It’s clear to see the brothers work well together, so as Patrick heads back to his office, it’s over to Charles to talk sportswear.

Passion radiates from Charles who joined the business in 1998. At this point they were looking for diversification, so they bought CFS, a company who made promotional gifts such as mouse mats, pens etc. With logos being emblazoned across a multitude

of products, it was only a matter of time before the demand for garments came their way, and it did!

With an investment in embroidery and hot foil machines it wasn’t long before this arm of the business took off, with workwear soon being produced for manufacturers of car cleaning products to breweries, as well as many other industries.

Demand grew through word of mouth and the good old yellow pages and the expansion to supplying sportswear began…and it hasn’t stopped since!

In Focus : Surridge Sports

it’s the strongest team we’ve ever had.

It was at this point there was an opportunity to acquire the Surridge brand. A successful negotiation by Geoff, Charles says this experience of working with his dad ensured it “worked perfectly”, meaning that by 2004 the brand which made cricket bats was fully embedded into the Group.

Following meetings in India the brand then pioneered teamwear for cricket. Where traditionally you’d see white worn on a cricket pitch this quickly evolved with cricketers wearing colourful branded sportswear featuring sponsor names, logos etc. Sturridge found themselves supplying 50% of the professional first-class county teams, a fantastic achievement for this Burnley brand.

Not ones to slow down they continued to look for new markets, with additional sports and educational establishments entering their radar.

They have recently been contracted to work with their 30th large university, the first being Bath and most recently Warwick. With some universities participating in over 60 sports this is no mean feat. Competition to get Warwick onboard was

tough, but having spoken to Surridge’s existing customers they couldn’t say no, especially when this local company’s reputation is so highly regarded.

With no desire to sit still Charles tells us about what’s coming next: “We’ve been working with Cheltenham College for over ten years so we’re now looking into more of the private school market. We work with private schools in the Middle East, so why not the UK?”

And that’s not it; there’s SDL Ireland to grow. With it’s Gaelic Athletic Association License with the brand of Gaelic Armour it means there are two brands to explore with fantastic potential, one to watch for sure!

And I could go on; there’s so many brilliant things happening at this Burnley based company with investment and innovation at the forefront. From the employee who started as a school leaver 15 years ago and is now head buyer to Geoff, Charles and Patrick who currently run the show, to Lydia and Will who maybe one day will be calling the shots, there’s no sitting still in the SDL and Surridge world of sport.

In Focus : Barnfield Construction

BARNFIELD CONSTRUCTION: Celebrates 50 years of building communities,partnerships and a lasting legacy

For half a century, Barnfield Construction has helped shape skylines, communities and opportunities across Lancashire and far beyond. From humble beginnings to becoming a multi-million-pound construction and development business, the company’s 50th anniversary is a chance to reflect on an extraordinary journey built on resilience, ambition and family values.

At the heart of that story is founder Tim Webber, whose determination and entrepreneurial spirit have driven Barnfield from a small local operation into a business delivering major projects nationwide.

FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO A GROWING BUSINESS

Barnfield Construction has completed over 1,000 jobs and in its 50 years in business has built a large proportion of Pendle and Burnley boroughs, AMS Technology Park, Network 65, Burnley Football Club’s Barnfield Training Ground and thousands of homes.

The company has also played a central role in some of Burnley’s most significant regeneration schemes. In recent years, Barnfield has delivered millions of pounds of development at Frontier Park.

Yet one project remains especially close to Tim’s heart – the transformation of the historic Weavers’ Triangle in Burnley.

“It’s important to him that he never forgets that journey,” one colleague reflected, and nowhere is that more evident than in the work at Weavers’ Triangle. Barnfield took on the challenge of preserving the town’s industrial heritage while creating a new future for the area. The redevelopment has transformed former mill buildings into vibrant business and educational spaces and created an innovative new home for the University of Lancashire’s Burnley campus.

Tim describes the project as one of Barnfield’s proudest achievements.

A CAREER BUILT THROUGH DETERMINATION

Tim’s route into construction was anything but straightforward. In his early twenties, after getting married and needing a steady income, he lost his job.

“I was working as a civil engineer in my twenties when my employer went bankrupt. I’d just got married and needed the income, so it was a scary moment losing my job to be honest. I couldn’t hang around waiting for the next opportunity, so I spent two or three years doing residential bathroom and kitchen extensions. I progressed on to contracts for the NHS and local authorities. This was all in the 1970s and I realised I was really building a business.”

That business officially began in 1976 and quickly grew.

Moving into the early 1980s and Tim told us something that is hard to believe considering Barnfield is now a multi-million-pound business - lenders wouldn’t take a chance on him and provide him with loans.

“I had the opportunity to purchase a site in Colne for 75 houses but I couldn’t get the money to buy it,” Tim recalled. “I thankfully met the bank manager at NatWest in Nelson who saw my vision and passion and backed me when no one else would.”

The housing market was changing rapidly and Tim saw opportunities where others did not. Working closely with Pendle Council, Barnfield helped deliver bungalows for older residents at a time when demand was growing.

ENTERPRISE ZONES AND EXPANSION ACROSS THE UK

By the late 1980s and early 1990s Barnfield was expanding far beyond Lancashire. Tim is candid about how that happened.

“The developer – who won’t mind me saying this – had quite frankly made a bit of a mess of the units. He realised the quality wasn’t going to cut it and asked me to help him. So, we partnered together, and I began to build for him.

“We built enterprise zones from Plymouth, Swansea, Birmingham, Sunderland and into Scotland. The government were really pushing them, but by the mid-1990s, enterprise zones had become full.”

That period helped establish Barnfield as a respected construction company with a reputation for quality, reliability and strong partnerships.

Feature : Xxxx

In Focus : Barnfield Construction

TRANSFORMING COMMUNITIES THROUGH PARTNERSHIP

As the enterprise zone market slowed, a new opportunity emerged.The government began investing heavily in social housing and Barnfield worked with housing associations and local authorities to create new developments and regeneration projects.

Many of Barnfield’s biggest successes have been achieved through joint ventures.

Barnfield and Burnley Developments Ltd, the partnership between Burnley Council and Barnfield, has delivered some of the area’s most significant projects. Alongside the continued transformation of Weavers’ Triangle, the partnership has helped create Sandygate Student Accommodation and played a major role in Burnley’s development as a thriving university town.

The company’s partnership with Hyndburn Council has delivered The Globe Centre, along with 40 houses, 50 apartments, a cinema, bowling alley and a McDonald’s restaurant.

In Pendle, PEARL - Barnfield’s joint venture with Pendle Council - has delivered more than £150 million of regeneration. At the centre of that success is Northlight in Brierfield, a 380,000 sq ft destination for living, working, learning, leisure and culture.

Northlight is now home to Burnley FC in the Community, FUNDA, Lancashire Adult Learning, In-Situ Garage for arts, Store First Self Storage and Black Sheep Coffee.

A FAMILY BUSINESS AT HEART

Despite the scale of the company today, Barnfield remains very much a family business.

Tim’s wife Sheila works in the accounts department, son James is a contracts director, son Joe works as a site engineer and grandson Oliver is currently developing his career in estimating and property development.

That close-knit, family culture has helped shape the company’s ethos over the past 50 years. The philosophy is simple: keep doing what they do – and do it well. Tim has no plans to slow down, as he explains:

“We’ve built the business on strong relationships, consistency and pride in what we deliver. That doesn’t change – it’s about continuing to do the right things, working with the right people, and maintaining the standards that have got us this far.”

A NEW CHAPTER THROUGH EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

As Barnfield marks its 50th anniversary, the company is also embracing an important new chapter in its history.

In 2024, Barnfield transitioned to Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) status. The move is designed to empower employees, strengthen the company’s long-term future and ensure that the people who have helped build Barnfield share directly in its ongoing success.

The decision reflects Barnfield’s commitment to its staff and community. By transferring majority ownership to an EOT, the company is enhancing job security while giving employees a greater voice in the direction of the business.

The new structure is intended to encourage collaboration, openness and shared success, creating a workplace where everyone has a role in shaping Barnfield’s future.

Tim Webber believes the change is a natural fit with the company’s long-standing values.

“The shift to Employee Ownership Trust status marks a significant milestone for us,” he said. “We believe that empowering our employees to become owners will not only enhance our workplace culture but drive our success as a company.

“The Webber family will remain a vital part of the business beyond this transition and are committed to ensuring that Barnfield Construction and subsidiary Group companies continue to be leaders within the industry.”

Jenny McAndrew, speaking on behalf of employees, said: “We are all very excited about the shift to EOT. All staff benefit from the transition and it provides them with added job security and long-term business continuity.”

The Webber family have continued to play an integral role in guiding the company and ensuring a seamless transition, while the focus remains firmly on long-term sustainability and future growth.

RECOGNITION FOR EXCELLENCE

Barnfield Construction’s achievements have also been recognised across the industry. The company was recently named Construction Business of the Year at the prestigious Insider Media Lancashire Property Awards, an accolade that reflects Barnfield’s continued commitment to quality, innovation and regional growth.

The judges recognised the company’s delivery of major development schemes, investment in local communities and strong partnerships with both public and private sector clients.

James Webber said the award was a proud moment for the whole team.

“We were absolutely delighted to receive this honour,” he said. “This award reflects the hard work, passion and professionalism of our entire team. We are committed to delivering projects that not only transform places but also contribute to the economic vitality of Lancashire.

“Being recognised by Insider Media was a tremendous endorsement of that effort.”

The Lancashire Property Awards brought together the region’s leading developers, contractors, architects and property professionals to celebrate excellence across the built environment. Winning Construction Business of the Year placed Barnfield Construction among the most influential and forward-thinking contributors to Lancashire’s future.

More recently, Barnfield Construction also achieved significant recognition at the Red Rose Awards 2026, where it was named winner of the Built Environment Award. This accolade highlights the company’s outstanding contribution to the construction and development sector, placing it among the leading businesses in Lancashire. The award, presented at a major regional celebration of business excellence attended by over 1,000 industry professionals, reflects both the quality of Barnfield’s projects and its impact on the built environment.

In Focus : Barnfield Construction

50 YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG

To mark the milestone, Barnfield Construction hosted a major celebration event on 16 May, bringing together many of the people who have been part of the company’s remarkable journey.

There will also be a staff fun day in July, recognising the loyalty and contribution of the people who have helped make Barnfield what it is today.

The celebrations are fitting for a business that has never lost sight of its roots. Beyond the major developments and high-profile projects, Barnfield has always remained committed to its local community, supporting grassroots initiatives, investing in skills and training for local people, and working closely with regional partners to create opportunities that extend beyond construction. From backing local charities and education programmes to prioritising local supply chains and employment, the company continues to ensure its success delivers lasting benefits to the communities it serves.

Fifty years on, Barnfield Construction remains grounded in the same values it was built on. From small beginnings in Pendle to delivering major developments across the UK, its success has been shaped by hard work, strong partnerships and a commitment to doing things the right way. As the business looks to the future, its focus remains clear: to continue building places, opportunities and communities that stand the test of time.

A WINDOW INTO VEKA PLC’S

40 YEARS AND COUNTING

In Focus : VEKA plc

VEKA plc’s branding stands proudly above Rossendale Road Industrial Estate in Burnley, and it feels like it’s always been there.

It has in fact been proudly based in Burnley for 40 years, which is an achievement in itself. However, many people driving past the huge site may not realise how this German, familyowned company came to be in Burnley.

We sat down with Neil Evans, MD at VEKA plc - which manufactures PVCu window and door systems - who explained the history: “The group - owned by the Hartleif family - were looking for a European HQ. They had a customer in Nelson whom they were using as a UK distributor, but they really wanted a manufacturing base in the UK.

“The owners contacted several local authorities in and around the area and Burnley Council was the most responsive, welcoming and helpful; some didn’t even respond to their request! The location of Burnley really made sense.”

Neil tells us that he recently came across an archived newspaper article with the headline “The German’s are coming! £1m jobs boost for Burnley”, which detailed how the VEKA group were going to enhance the local economy and how they’d enjoyed

working with Burnley Council to establish the site.

With 40 years of history in the borough, we don’t have the space to regale the entire history of the company, so we will fast forward to 2011, when VEKA plc had a big decision to make.

The financial downturn of 2008/09 left the business, like many others, in a weakened position. With 150 employees and their families relying on VEKA plc, a tough decision had to be made. Former MD Dave Jones laid three options on the table for the owners to consider;

1. Sweat the assets

2. Exit Burnley

3. Buy a much bigger company and bring it to Burnley

The owners, seeing how much Burnley meant to the business, as well as its logistically favourable position, thankfully chose the third option and they acquired Bowater Building Products. The company, a leading UK manufacturer of PVCu window and door systems, whose portfolio included the widely recognised WHS Halo system that has since become a key part of VEKA’s product portfolio, merged into VEKA plc. The merger resulted in their employee count jumping to 400.

With a successful acquisition under its belt and the Burnley site stronger than ever, that isn’t the end of VEKA’s story. A feature about longevity wouldn’t

be the same without some twists and turns. The acquisition costs were expensive, and now the hard work had to be done to increase profitability to ensure the deal paid off - not only to balance the books, but to ensure the company could continue to be a secure and dependable employer in the area.

The global pandemic arrived in 2020, and whilst many companies sadly suffered during this time, VEKA plc were able to keep going because of their strong position of having global owners. Of course, the home renovation sector boomed during 2020-2022 and this had a positive impact for operations, with production ramped up to meet demand, creating more employment.

Neil continues: “The group has always believed in Burnley and never once blamed the location during times where we’ve had financial dips. In fact, they believe in the UK market so much that they’ve recently purchased a business three times the size of VEKA plc - the Epwin Group.”

Epwin Group is a leading UK-based manufacturer and supplier of energy efficient and low-maintenance building products including windows, doors and fascia systems. VEKA’s owners told Neil that they acknowledged and recognised the success of Burnley and wanted to keep building on momentum.

AN EVOLUTION AS AN EMPLOYER

Whilst the business has evolved over its 40 years in terms of innovation and economic strength, it has also evolved as an employer.

Jessica Cooper, marketing director at VEKA plc, says: “89% of all our employees live within the BB postcode and the average length of service of an employee is 7.6 years. My understanding is that the average length of service in the UK manufacturing sector is approximately 5.3 years, so I’m incredibly proud that we exceed this and even prouder that it is with people from our local community.”

It certainly is something of a stalwart when it comes to large employers in Burnley; one employee - Garry Powell - has been at the company since it opened in the town. Jessica notes how they do not have to actively seek out of area when it comes to recruitment, finding the talent they require in and around Burnley.

“Burnley has been good to us in terms of workforce. We’ve implemented lots of changes when it comes to communicating with our people and it’s a much more two-way approach now. We don’t promote this as we think it should be standard, but we’re a real living wage employer, everyone gets a profit share, we throw a huge summer party for staff and we also have helped contribute to Christmas costs,” Jess continues.

It’s this ethos of giving back that is a key driver to VEKA immersing themselves with the community of Burnley, supporting many charities over the years, not just with money but also with time. Taking it one step further, they are on a mission to carry out 40 good deeds for their 40 years. Some of the completed ones so far include giving to The Big Burnley Breakout, Whitehough, BFC Dementia Café, Burnley Together Foodbank and so much more to come.

These values are important to VEKA, with the recruitment team firmly believing that hiring people who fit the ethos of Burnley is more important than hiring on current skillset alone. As they acknowledge, many skills can be taught, but it’s much harder to instil a different set of values.

Another way the company gives back to the borough is through its Burnley Bondholder membership. Neil acknowledges the openness of Burnley Council when it comes to the public-private partnership, with bondholders having access to the CEO of the council Lukman Patel, whom he describes as “open, consistent, human and approachable”.

Indeed, Neil has been so impressed by what he saw, that he became chair of the Burnley Bondholders - a role he was initially concerned about with being a Geordie!

“I’ll admit that when I had my interview for the role of sales director - my first appointment at VEKA - and Dave Jones told me how much Burnley meant to the business, I thought ‘yeah right’. Having come from other large corporations who honestly, could have been based anywhere with little involvement in the community, I was cynical. But it absolutely is true. Burnley matters to VEKA and its people.

“Being from the north east, I was initially worried about becoming chair of the bondholders; I felt slightly like an imposter. I need not have worried. Everyone has been very welcoming and supportive, and I’ve quickly learnt that you don’t need to be from Burnley to be passionate about it. Likewise, you’re accepted when you share that passion and the business community here has certainly done that,” Neil states.

He even relocated to Lancashire, after initially thinking he might split his time here and the north east - Burnley has clearly made an impression on him!

ONE THING REMAINS FIRM AND UNCHANGEABLE; ITS FUTURE IS IN BURNLEY.

40 YEARS AND COUNTING

With VEKA plc growing every day, what next in this tale of longevity?

Modernisation and skills development are on the agenda to future proof the business and to ensure it continues to grow and prosper. One of the biggest barriers to growth is convincing customers to leave their current suppliers to move to VEKA plc, with Neil explaining how every one per cent of market share gained results in £8 million of additional revenue.

Neil outlines some key goals; win new business, continue to provide service excellence, focus on removing waste from

core processes, develop and sell the right products and have the best people.

One thing remains firm and unchangeable; its future is in Burnley.

“We’re an employer that’s going nowhere. We don’t want to coast, and we always want to be better and for us, that is what we can achieve in Burnley. Our German owners provide a light touch management style, as they see how we’re thriving. If in another 40 years, that still applies, then we’re still doing something right,” Neil concludes.

In Focus : CRC Evans

ENGINEERING THE FUTURE FROM BURNLEY: Inside CRC Evans’ major investment

Longevity in business rarely happens by accident.

It is built over decades through specialist knowledge, consistent investment and, crucially, confidence in place. For CRC Evans, that place has long been Burnley. Now, nearly forty years after first establishing operations in the borough, the global welding and coating specialist is making one of the biggest statements of commitment yet, with Burnley firmly at the centre of its international future.

CRC Evans has announced plans for a new 90,000 sq ft international Centre of Excellence at Frontier Park Burnley, a strategic investment that will see the company double its operational footprint in the borough. Once complete, the facility will become one of the largest end to end specialty welding, coating and engineering hubs, globally, and specifically as it leads across CRC Evans’ Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and South America (EMEAA) regions.

More than a simple expansion, the development positions Burnley as the global supersite and headquarters for CRC Evans’ Critical Infrastructure business stream, marking a significant milestone not only for the company, but for the borough itself.

A BURNLEY STORY NEARLY FOUR DECADES IN THE MAKING

CRC Evans’ relationship with Burnley dates back to 1988, a time when global energy markets looked very different from today. Back then, it was known as Pipeline Induction Heat, prior to the mergers and acquisitions which led it to become part of the CRC Evans group. What has remained constant, however, is the company’s focus on specialist capability and high integrity delivery - and Burnley’s ability to supply the skilled workforce to support it.

Over the years, several generations of local families have built careers with CRC Evans, contributing to projects that span every continent. Today, operations in Burnley underpin around $100 million of CRC Evans’ global revenue, quietly demonstrating the scale of impact one Lancashire town can have on the world stage.That longstanding relationship is central to the decision to invest.

“Burnley has been part of our EMEAA story since 1988,” said Mauro Piasere, CEO at CRC Evans. “Today, it becomes a critical platform for our international growth and expansion.”

A DECISIVE STEP IN A GLOBAL GROWTH STRATEGY

The new Centre of Excellence is a direct response to growing market demand, not only in traditional energy sectors, but in emerging and highly regulated infrastructure markets where CRC Evans’ expertise is increasingly essential.

The company has built unparalleled experience across oil and gas, renewables and wider infrastructure, working on refineries, nuclear facilities and transportation projects worldwide. As global priorities shift, those same technical skills are now in demand across offshore and floating wind, hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, clean nuclear and complex infrastructure.

CRC Evans’ advanced manufacturing capability allows it to fabricate components and modules at multiple locations worldwide, applying consistent welding, coating, nondestructive examination, dimensional control and measurement procedures across its fabrication network. This consistency is central to the company’s role as a preferred technical partner, offering customers flexible fabrication solutions that reduce cost and risk without compromising quality.

“The scale and capability of Burnley significantly strengthen our position in regulated infrastructure markets such as nuclear, defence and aerospace.”

THE BURNLEY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE TAKES THAT MODEL FURTHER.

By consolidating advanced manufacturing, engineering, compliance led operations and digital systems integration within a single purpose built facility, CRC Evans is creating a scalable, future proofed platform capable of supporting growth across both established and emerging markets.

“This investment marks a decisive step in delivering our global growth strategy,” added Mauro. “By doubling our footprint in Burnley, we are reinforcing our leadership in specialty welding and coating while establishing an international Centre of Excellence equipped to support the most demanding infrastructure markets worldwide.”

A defining feature of Pioneer House at Frontier Park, Burnley, is its ability to operate at the highest levels of regulatory compliance. Designed to meet the most stringent industry and legislative standards, the site incorporates contamination controlled workflows and strict material segregation, capabilities that are essential in nuclear, aerospace and defence environments.

In these sectors, supplier selection hinges on proven performance, full traceability and tightly controlled manufacturing conditions. For CRC Evans, the Burnley site provides the assurance required to compete, and lead, in some of the world’s most demanding markets.

Steven Mackay, managing director for CRC Evans’ Critical Infrastructure business stream, says the scale of the investment is transformational he said. “These sectors demand absolute assurance around compliance, traceability and operational control.

“This investment creates the operational foundation to support sustained growth in critical infrastructure markets while providing our global clients with the highest standards of specialty welding and coating expertise.”

In Focus : CRC Evans

INVESTING IN PEOPLE, NOT JUST INFRASTRUCTURE

The Centre of Excellence also strengthens CRC Evans’ ability to integrate advanced welding and coating technologies with digital assurance systems. At the heart of this is Data 360, the company’s proprietary cloud based platform that embeds traceability, quality assurance and performance visibility into operational workflows.

For clients operating in complex, multi jurisdictional environments, this digital layer offers confidence, ensuring data integrity and compliance from fabrication through to installation.

Looking ahead, Burnley will also serve as a development and deployment hub for next generation automation and specialty welding and coating technologies, supporting innovation across CRC Evans’ global operations.

While the scale of the new facility is impressive, CRC Evans is clear that its most important investment remains in people.

The company’s apprenticeship scheme is the jewel in the crown and a key part of its commitment to developing future skills and creating long-term opportunities for local talent. By giving

apprentices hands-on experience in a highly specialised engineering environment, the programme helps build the next generation of expertise across welding, coating, engineering and operations.

The success of the scheme speaks for itself, with the company taking home the award for Apprenticeship Scheme of the Year Award in 2019 at the town’s Business Awards, and more recently being shortlisted in the 2026 Burnley Business Awards’ Young Employee of the Year category for apprentice Hollie Mayhew, a second-year maintenance and operations engineering technician. Hollie is a prime example of how the company’s apprenticeship scheme delivers. At just 18 years old, Hollie has had the opportunity to travel to live projects, showcasing her skills and talent, while being closely mentored by a dedicated team based at the facility - all while studying at Burnley College.

The Burnley expansion places the borough at the heart of the company’s global people development strategy, acting as a centre for skills development, training and knowledge transfer. As CRC Evans continues to operate in more than 100 countries worldwide, Burnley plays a central role in supporting its “globally local” delivery model, developing expertise locally and deploying it internationally.

BURNLEY’S GROWING REPUTATION AS A HEADQUARTERS TOWN

CRC Evans is a prominent member of the Burnley Bondholders, the private sector led partnership dedicated to raising the prosperity and profile of the borough. Working closely with the Burnley.co.uk place brand team, the company has played an active role in positioning Burnley as a location where global businesses can thrive.

For Lukman Patel, CEO of Burnley Council, the latest announcement underlines that message.

“CRC Evans’ decision to further invest in Burnley with a 90,000 sq ft centre of excellence at Frontier Park is a powerful endorsement of our borough, our workforce and our future,” he said.

“This is a company that has been part of Burnley’s story since 1988, with several generations of local families building their careers there and their continued reinvestment speaks volumes.

Lukman points to the significance of Burnley becoming not just an operational base, but a headquarters location.

“To see Burnley becoming the EMEA headquarters and the global flagship facility in their sector specialism is a landmark moment,” he added.

“This is exactly the kind of long term partnership we value: a global business with such an established heritage choosing to deepen its roots here, create exciting careers that take local talent around the world, and continue supporting our community.”

A CONFIDENCE BUILT OVER TIME

As Burnley continues to evolve, CRC Evans’ expansion stands as a clear example of how long term commitment, specialist expertise and confidence in place can combine to drive sustainable growth, locally and globally.

In an era where investment often chases short term gains, CRC Evans’ decision to double down on Burnley is rooted in something more enduring: decades of experience, a skilled workforce and a belief that the borough has a central role to play in the future of global energy and infrastructure.

“The fact that $100 million of revenue is supported by operations in Burnley demonstrates the scale of impact our borough has on the world stage.”

In Focus : CRC Evans

1980: FOUNDED AS PIPELINE INDUCTION HEAT (PIH)

PIH was originally established in High Wycombe by Peter Bryant, a native of Clitheroe.

1988: RELOCATION TO BURNLEY

PIH relocated to Burnley at the invitation of Burnley Council, as part of the town’s strategy to attract high-value inward investment.

1988 ONWARD: GROWTH IN BURNLEY

After moving, PIH became an established part of the Burnley business community, eventually growing into a business with average turnover exceeding $80 million.

2010: ACQUISITION BY

STANLEY BLACK & DECKER

PIH and sister company CRC Evans were acquired by Stanley Black & Decker in its first move into the oil and gas sector, supporting its diversification strategy.

2010–2013: MAJOR REVENUE GROWTH

Backed by Stanley Black & Decker and helped by strong market conditions, revenues doubled between 2010 and 2013.

2022: TRANSFORMATIONAL MERGER AND GROUP REALIGNMENT

A major merger with backing from specialist energy private equity company, Bluewater, led by Scottish firm Pipeline Techniques (PTL) brought PIH, PTL, CRC Evans International, and Global Services together under a single CRC Evans brand

2022 ONWARD: CREATION OF AN INTEGRATED BUSINESS

The consolidation combined proprietary welding and coating technologies with field delivery capability, strengthening support for customers in energy and broader infrastructure sectors.

SPRING 2026: PHASED MOVE TO NEW EMEAA HEADQUARTERS BEGINS END OF SUMMER 2026: MOVE EXPECTED TO COMPLETE

The relocation is due to finish towards the end of the summer, establishing the new Burnley Centre of Excellence to support growth in evolving energy and critical infrastructure sectors as Nuclear, Renewables, Defence, Aerospace and Utilities.

The CRC Evans facility in Burnley houses a dedicated PQT facility

CRC Evans coating team works on a number of interesting projectslocated both on and offshore

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