WHEELS IN MOTION

British Commercial Vehicle output up in best start to year since 2012

UK commercial vehicle (CV) production grew 35.6% in the first month of 2023, with 9,299 units leaving factory gates, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). It’s the best start to a year since 2012 and reflects the determination of manufacturers to get back on track. Volumes are expected to increase significantly throughout the year, as new models begin production and a major new electric van manufacturing plant comes on stream – a boost which is set to see UK CV output surpass 160,000 units in 2023.

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Stay Safe

Watch out for non-compliant PPE and safety equipment, warns safety body. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is warning the industry of sub-standard PPE. The BSIF completed tests on 127 non-member products and found 108 (85%) failed to meet the regulatory criteria. A few examples of these substandard products include an 'indestructible safety trainer' that failed the midsole penetration test and 'cut-resistant gloves' that didn't pass the relevant cut test. The BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, on the other hand, are tested annually to strict criteria.

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Dulux Academy champions

‘Skills for Life’

Dulux Academy is promoting apprenticeships as a means for individuals to build upon their skills and knowledge for the future and, in turn, help businesses grow a workforce of experts. In keeping with the Academy’s wider goals, the Apprentice Season Ticket enables apprentices to attend courses at any UK Dulux Academy venue to support and supplement their site and college-based learning.

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Ideal Locations

Alliance Fund research advises housebuilders where they should be looking for new opportunities.

Research by Alliance Fund reveals that the average demand for plots of land in England currently sits at 50.8% and advises where developers should most focus their attention when looking for new opportunities.

Developers should consider a mixture of demand and total available plots, making the East Midlands an attractive proposition. The region sits below average demand at 44.1% and has a large total of 1,279 current land listings. Price per square foot for plots should also be considered.

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