The Magazine of Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce
A sign of support
Members back Chamber by becoming Bronze Patrons
Member News
HullBID begins the countdown to their muchanticipated awards night Spotlight
Why strategic video content is redefining business communication Motoring
We review Mazda's MX-5 -a modern classic that's better than ever
5 Kirk Akdemir on the importance of promoting your business
6 Members tuck in to tasty treats at Tickton Grange Hotel
The Record
8 Angus Young on the need for action from local government
10 Sylvester Keal wins regional BCC Business Award
Member News
14 Double appointment at Grimsby Fish Dock Enterprises
17 Task force to expand Business Week
18 New Member Spotlight: David Ramsden, Den Architecture Ltd
20 Young recruits join the team at Ideal Heating
22 HullBID Awards will be a night to remember 24 Elis invited to take to the waves Spotlight Features
28 Logistics, Freight & Transportation Does size matter? The differences between large and small freight forwarders
30 Creative Industries Why strategic video content is redefining business communication
On
Local Skills Improvement Plan
Focus
International Trade Former apprentice passes torch 36 Legal & Finance Accountants welcome trainees
38 Community & Business Praise showered on beloved boss 39 Manufacturing Green light for freeport facilities 40 Motoring The Kia Xceed is a reassuringly affordable drive 42 The Mazda MX-5 is now better than ever New Members 44 The Chamber welcomes new members
More Thing... 46 Charity bosses in podcast hot seat
Growing your business, building our economy
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President’s Message
As we emerge from this year’s round of party conferences, it’s worth remembering that politics doesn’t have to dictate how you run your business.
Taxes, interest rates, minimum wage levels and more will always influence your profitability, and the Chamber has excellent networks when it comes to lobbying MPs and Ministers to promote the interest of our members.
But those issues all fall into the category of things you can do little or nothing about as an individual business. What you can do is focus on the performance of your own organisation and the people within it, and a very good way of doing that is to get involved in the Chamber’s various awards schemes.
The Goole & Howdenshire Business Excellence Awards and the Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards enable you to shine a spotlight on your achievements. Before that, the HullBID Awards will showcase the success of large and small businesses operating in Hull city centre.
As Chamber President and as CEO of AaGlobal Language Services I have the highest admiration for these awards, the people who organise them, the businesses which enter and the audiences who – without fail – generate an electric atmosphere.
I have spoken at some of the celebrations, and AaGlobal has been fortunate enough to win some categories, but the involvement which I particularly value is as a sponsor.
We continue to sponsor the HullBID Awards 2026 because we want to do our bit to promote the city centre as a vibrant and varied business community. We want to help businesses share their success stories as winners and finalists, and we also want to highlight the benefits for businesses which don’t make the shortlist.
We know from experience that the real value of awards schemes is in making you cast a critical eye over your organisation from top to bottom. You investigate the performance of your people and processes, which helps you identity the strengths you can build upon and the weaknesses you need to remedy.
So I would urge you to look at the opportunities presented by all of these awards with the mindset of how you can use them to make your business more innovative, more resilient, and less vulnerable to external factors.
Kirk Akdemir
President, Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce
Chamber Patrons
As a not-for-profit organisation, the Chamber is very grateful to our Patrons, who support us in our aim to help our members develop their businesses.
• AaGlobal Language Services Ltd – Gold
• Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP
• ARUP
• Centrica Energy Storage+ – Gold
• Clugston Distribution Services Ltd
• CORY – Gold
• Den Architecture
• DN Colleges Group – Gold
• Drax
• East Riding of Yorkshire Council
• ELLGIA Ltd
• Equinor New Energy Ltd – Gold
• GGP Consult Ltd
• Hatfields Jaguar Land Rover
• Hull Trains Company Ltd
• KCOM
• Kevin Greene Photography
• My… Group
• National Grid Electricity Transmission
• OLG
• Orsted
• Pattesons Glass
• SPS Group of Companies
• Streets Chartered Accountants
• University of Hull
• Wilkin Chapman Rollits
Networking Events
Chamber members enjoy a speed networking and business development event at Tickton Grange Hotel
It’s time for tea! Members tuck in to tasty treats while networking
Atasty afternoon tea tempted lots of speed networking Chamber members to Tickton Grange Hotel, near Beverley, for a fun afternoon of business development.
The event was kindly sponsored by Jo Silverwood and the Hull & East Riding Skills Bootcamp, who brought along some fun interactive exhibits and lots of goodies to promote their bootcamps, while the afternoon teas were beautifully prepared by Callum
Williams and his team at the hotel. Over 70 members and non-members alike welcomed the opportunity to share their business ideas and meet lots of potential new clients in a relaxed environment at a beautiful location.
‘The afternoon teas were beautifully prepared by Callum Williams and his team at the hotel’
Jo said it had been a great opportunity for them to promote the Bootcamps and they had got plenty of new enquiries about their funding opportunities and courses.
Organiser Kay Bailey said the event had been a great success and the afternoon teas were delicious and had gone down very well. She thanked Callum and his team at the hotel for all their hard work in making it all come together so smoothly.
Check out the Chamber’s events guide on our website for all our forthcoming events, the first of which is more speed networking on 20 November at the Hampton by Hilton at Humberside Airport.
Jo Silverwood (centre) and her colleague Amanda Olssen pictured with Kay Bailey from the Chamber
Business cards being swopped and connections being made
A packed room full of noisy networkers at the lovely Tickton Grange hotel
A warm welcome for the newest member of the Chamber team
The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce’s new Information and Awards Officer, Elis Ballard, made her official debut at our Tickton Grange speed networking and afternoon tea event where she was given a warm welcome from our members.
Elis who lives in Northern Lincolnshire, is no stranger to the Chamber having assisted Anne Tate and Marilyn Waud with the Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards for several years.
With a background in journalism and marketing, Elis will be continuing to help Anne and Marilyn with this year’s awards, as well as getting out and about, meeting our existing members and recruiting some new ones. She will also be helping out on other
networking events and the Chamber Expo, so she will soon become a familiar face, so do say hello if you haven’t already!
Elis said: “I’m really excited to be joining the Chamber team and helping to support the local business community in Northern Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. I’m very much looking forward to meeting the members and helping out with the Chamber’s busy events calendar.
“The afternoon tea event at Tickton Grange was lovely and really busy and had a brilliant vibe so I’m already looking forward to the next one!
Elis can be contacted by email on e.ballard@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk
Elis ringing the changes at the Chamber as she gets into the swing of speed networking at her first event at Tickton Grange
Kay Bailey (left) with Jo Silverwood and Callum Williams from Tickton Grange Hotel
The tasty afternoon teas which were prepared by Callum Williams and his team at Tickton Grange
On the record With Angus Young
These are the author’s views and not necessarily those of the Chamber.
A combined lack of action after six months – now it’s time to get cracking!
We’re six months on from the two new mayor-led combined authorities coming into being on either side of Humber.
As such, it’s probably a good time to take stock and look at how things are actually going on the ground.
While there was plenty of fanfare about the two devolution deals before they were actually signed and sealed, their subsequent delivery was always going to be a marathon rather than a sprint.
However, the stuttering starts made by the two new elected mayors have not exactly been encouraging.
In Hull and East Yorkshire, Mayor Luke Campbell at least has the excuse of having no previous experience whatsoever of being involved in local government.
As a result, his sudden entrance into an unfamiliar world has been a bit like watching oil being poured into a jug of water.
He’s also having to juggle the realities of supporting the region’s economy with the conflicting emerging national policies of his party Reform UK.
While Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice continues to attack wind turbines and
wants to scrap Northern Powerhouse Rail, Campbell says he’s committed to both because local jobs and future economic prosperity are pretty much dependent on them.
Prompted by Hull’s three Labour MPs, he’s also pledged to work with them on a range of issues following an initial recent meeting while on the Combined Authority itself he’s got no option but to do much the same with Conservative and Liberal Democrat councillors sitting with him on the executive board.
All this cross-party co-operation seems to be far removed from Reform UK’s national ‘us versus them’ approach at Westminster and in the towns and cities where it now controls local councils.
‘Neither one seems fully equipped to get on with the job in hand’
Campbell even looked like the odd one out at Reform’s recent party conference, remaining notably tight-lipped as a line-up of the party’s big-hitters enthusiastically sang God Save The King at the close of proceedings.
In contrast, his Greater Lincolnshire Mayoral counterpart and party colleague Andrea Jenkyns led the rendition of the national anthem with gusto, although she did manage to mangle the opening line by singing God Save The Queen instead.
On the opening day of the conference, she bounded on stage in a sequin-clad jumpsuit before singing her self-written song Insomnia.
The party faithful were stunned into baffled silence in much the same way as Lincolnshire’s electorate have been since
Jenkyns became Mayor in May because little or nothing has really happened since then.
A series of scheduled authority meetings were cancelled over the summer months and what would normally be regarded as a regular municipal calendar is only just now starting to creak into gear.
Back on the North Bank, another spanner in the works has been staffing at the Combined Authority or, to be more accurate, a lack of staffing.
So far, one interim chief executive, one interim legal officer and one interim communications officer have departed early. The current interim CEO is Alan Menzies, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s former CEO, who is now dividing his time between the two before he retires.
It all feels a bit, well, interim.
I appreciate launching brand new authorities in advance of Mayors being elected to lead them was always going to be challenging but, as yet, neither one seems fully equipped to get on with the job in hand.
After six months, I suspect the patience of voters and the business sectors who campaigned long and hard for devolution is starting to wear thin.
It’s time to get cracking!
Luke Campbell - pledged to work with Hull's MPs
Andrea Jenkyns - star turn at party conference
Chamber Policy
Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce is the collective ‘Voice of Business’ across the Humber region representing the views and interests of our Members at local, regional and national levels.
Celebrations as Sylvester Keal wins BCC award
Gbecome a Regional Winner in the British Chambers of Commerce Business Awards 2025, having scooped the Local Economy of the Future Award.
The awards recognise outstanding businesses around the country for their excellence and innovation.
The regional winners now go through to the finals to see which firms will be named as the National winners in the various categories.
Sylvester Keal Director and the Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President, Irene Keal, said: “We are thrilled to become a regional winner in the British Chambers of Commerce Business Awards.
“A huge congratulations to all of this year’s outstanding regional winners, whose achievements reflect the remarkable talent and entrepreneurial spirit that continues to drive this country’s economy forward.
“Becoming a regional winner is a really good achievement and raises the profile of both Sylvester Keal and Hull & Humber Chamber, which is itself a small business.”
Oil refinery to cut jobs despite sale hope
North Lincolnshire is reeling from the news that 125 jobs are to be lost at the Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery, despite at least two bids being considered to save the plant.
The Insolvency Service confirmed the news that the employees concerned had been notified. The plant currently employs 420 workers and a further 500 contract jobs and thousands in the supply chain.
The Insolvency Service said the decision was not taken lightly but followed a review of the business, but promised to fully support
employees subject to redundancy via the Redundancy Payments Service.
A Unite union spokesperson claimed the news made a mockery of Government promises to protect workers and its plan for net zero after it had promised job focused bids would be the priority at the refinery, yet redundancies were being made before the bids had been considered.
Commenting on the news, the Chamber's External Affairs Director, David Hooper, said this is a very sad and difficult situation for all the
employees at the refinery and especially those affected by redundancy.
"The Chamber would like to see all the bids considered thoroughly and as many jobs at the site saved as possible. The refinery is a major employer in Northern Lincolnshire and its insolvency doesn't just affect those directly employed, but also those who work in the supply chain.
"We sincerely hope a buyer can be found quickly and the refinery can continue its important role in our region's economy."
Chamber Vice President Irene Keal is thrilled to win BCC Award
Members 'power-ful' backing for the Great Grid Upgrade plans
The National Grid’s Stephen KnightGregson was the guest speaker at the recent Chamber Council meeting held at Cave Castle, to discuss the plans for The Great Grid Upgrade.
Head of External Affairs, English Regions Strategic Infrastructure, Electricity Transmission, Stephen Knight-Gregson told members how the Great Grid Upgrade is the largest overhaul of the electricity grid in generations.
The infrastructure projects across England and Wales will help to connect more affordable, home-grown and renewable energy to our homes and businesses.
The plans include 17 major infrastructure projects. Steve told members that the UK’s electricity grid was originally built to connect electricity generated in power stations from fossil fuels like coal from the North and Midlands of England and South Wales.
As the UK moves away from fossil fuels and increases clean energy generation, demand for electricity is expected to increase by 50% by 2035 and double by 2050 as we decarbonise the energy that’s used for things like heating and transport, so significant new infrastructure is needed to connect the clean energy from where it’s generated to where it’s needed.
New infrastructure is required to carry wind generated energy in the North Sea by the wind turbines to homes and businesses and we need new electricity transmission infrastructure to
be built as well as upgrading existing infrastructure.
The UK has committed to connect 40GW of offshore wind to the electricity grid by 2030, making 50GW in total to meet the government’s targets.
National Grid’s network of cables, pylons and substations will need to transmit this
Hull City Council outlines bold plans for the future
she used to work there. M&S has gone and the city centre is notably quieter than it used to be.
renewable energy, as the existing infrastructure simply doesn’t have the capacity to transport the volume of energy that will be generated offshore.
Chamber President Kirk Akdemir thanked Steve for his informative presentation and said he was looking forward to an update about upgrade in due course.
The City Centre Vision sets out Hull’s ambition for spatial change, economic growth and urban transformation to create a sustainable and vibrant city centre.
Angela told the meeting that consultations had taken place over the last year and there have been consultations with private investors, local businesses, councillors and other stakeholders.
She said: “It’s about looking at future uses of the city centre and as the retail market is struggling, we are looking at how we revitalise it and make it attractive for young people and create more city centre living.”
Angela said when she returned to live in Hull she was shocked at how starkly different the city centre is now compared to 20 years ago when
“We need to reimagine the urban offer, increase activity and footfall, return and nurture talent, increase city centre living, job creation and environmental resilience, but at the same time need to retain Hull’s heritage and characteristics.
“The key areas which will be focused on in the next five years are Albion Square, East Bank, Paragon, Myton, Princes Quay and Whitefriargate, Freetown Way and Ferensway.”
Former Chamber President Mike Whitehead raised the issue of Hull being at the bottom of many league tables, which doesn’t help to attract major companies into the city centre. He also highlighted that the city centre lacks a university and police station.
He felt the future of Hull was about its heritage and history and to encourage people to visit.
Mike said: “It’s important that we get behind Mayor Luke Campbell and the Chamber of Commerce needs to be making sure we get behind the Mayor, the Council and Combined Authority and making sure our case is heard.” Angela agreed, and said she doesn’t know Luke very well yet, but he is enthusiastic and passionate about the city.
The Chamber’s Hull Area Council enjoyed a presentation from Angela Blake from Hull City Council discussing what the future of Hull’s city centre might look like.
Stephen Knight-Gregson is thanked by Chamber President Kirk Akdemir following his presentation to the Chamber Council meeting
The Chamber’s Hull Area Council Chair Phil Ascough welcomes Angela Blake from Hull City Council to the Chamber
QUARTERLY ECONOMIC SURVEY Q3 2025
It was quite a mixed picture in the Humber in Quarter 3 as far as the local economy goes, according to the most recent survey of businesses.
However the underlying difficulties remain with continuing uncertainty, falling turnover and rising prices.
This is set against a national picture of stubborn inflation which remained at 3.8% in August and the interest rate being held at 4.0% by the Bank of England.
Home Sales and Orders were both down slightly this quarter, with Home Orders dropping by just one point but staying firmly in negative territory at –1, and Home Orders dropping a further seven points into the red at –32.
Export Sales and Orders fared slightly better, but also remained in negative territory, with Export Sales improving by four points to –33 and Export Orders rising by the same figure to –34.
‘Business now needs a period of stability in the Humber, and not another raid from the Chancellor’
Firms reported that Cashflow in the last three months had improved slightly rising by seven points to a balance figure of –26, and more firms were investing in plant and machinery, with that balance improving by 30 points to –37.
Prices were expected to rise in the next three months as raw material costs are on the up, and although turnover expectations were down by 11 points, profit expectations improved slight by seven points to –18.
However turnover expectations for the next three months were down 11 points to –11.
External concerns were still a key feature in this quarter’s results, with inflation becoming an increasing concern, highlighted by 37% more businesses this quarter. Business rates were also cited as a concern, as were exchange rates and interest rates, all up on the previous quarter.
Chamber Chief Executive, Dr Ian Kelly, commented: “Our survey results for the third quarter of 2025 show that businesses in the Humber region are still dealing with the fall-out of National Insurance tax hikes and the rise in the minimum wage rate.
“Now, however, there is another concern looming in the shape of the Autumn Budget in November. It is clear from our survey results that businesses are bracing themselves for more bad news and battening down the hatches.
“Business now needs a period of stability in the Humber, and not another raid from the Chancellor!”
Budget must focus on growth, says the BCC
The British Chambers of Commerce is calling for Chancellor Rachel Reeves to focus her second Budget on key growth drivers to lift the gloom that has settled over the economy.
The BCC’s budget submission focuses on policies to encourage investment, strengthen the workforce, support exports and develop infrastructure.
The top four recommendations are:
1 No more taxes on business, alongside reforming business rates and the axing of the windfall tax on oil and gas
2 Prioritising infrastructure investment and approval, including more rail projects, alongside a new runway at Heathrow and continued support for Gatwick and Luton.
3 Supporting exports by cutting customs barriers, funding digital trade and backing new trade accelerators.
4 Taking action on chronic skills shortages –including a wage subsidy scheme for young people with long-term health issues.
The submission has more than 60 recommendations in total, based on extensive surveys with thousands of companies, interviews with policy experts across the country and input from large corporates. This research shows that while the economy is forecast to grow 1.3% in 2025 this will not be enough to shift the dial on investment or fill the Chancellor’s fiscal black hole.
Business confidence crumbled in the aftermath of last year’s budget after firms were hit with large increases in employment costs and it has not recovered. Inflation has also remained stubbornly above the Bank of England’s target, while the UK’s goods trade deficit has widened and unemployment has climbed.
The BCC’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey has found confidence and investment levels are around the same as 2022. Less than half of responding firms (48%) are expecting increased turnover in the next 12 months, while 21% expect a decrease.
In terms of investment, only 21% have put more money into their firms, while 25%, have scaled back their plans.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “This year’s budget will be a make-or-break moment for many firms. They need the Chancellor to show that she gets it and stop any further tax rises on business. Right now, many firms feel drained. They cannot plan ahead as they expect further tax demands to be laid at their feet.
“Last year’s budget took the wind from their sails, and they have been struggling to find momentum ever since. The Chancellor must seize this moment and use her budget to deliver a pro-growth agenda that can restore optimism and belief amongst business leaders.
“They want to see a tax system that incentivises growth, more support on exports and skills, and commitments on infrastructure, planning and the energy grid that are fully followed through.”
MAIN PICTURE: Chancellor Rachel Reeve INSET: Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC
Newest Patrons get on board with special plaque presentation
Three new Chamber patrons were presented with their special plaques in October in recognition of elevating their membership to the Bronze Patron Level.
Paul Jackson, Head of Customer and Stakeholder Engagement for Hull Trains and Lumo was presented with his patron’s plaque at Cave Castle Hotel during September’s Chamber Council meeting.
The Chamber is proud to have helped to found Hull Trains and the company has been a member of the Chamber ever since, but in a sign of continuing mutual collaboration and support Paul has recently joined the Chamber’s Board, while the Chamber continues to lobby the rail industry for better services, timetabling and investment for our part of the world.
Paul said: “Hull Trains is pleased to be able to further support the Chamber of Commerce which is doing an excellent job of supporting the local businesses community and working with us to help develop our services. I’m looking forward to working more closely with the Chamber in the coming years and developing our shared ambitions for both businesses and the region.”
On the same occasion, a second patron’s plaque was presented to Gary Taylor who represents Wilkin Chapman Rollits on the Chamber Council. The new company is the result of the merger of two of the biggest legal firms in the Humber this year, both of which are long-standing Chamber Members and supporters.
Gary thanked the Chamber for the plaque, promising it would be displayed prominently in their offices.”I’m pleased that Wilkin Chapman Rollits can support the Chamber in its work
locally – and I’m looking forward to attending this year’s Patron’s Lunch in the Guildhall in December. It’s a very auspicious occasion!”
Pattesons Glass is another local success story having just moved into purpose-built new premises on Hewitts Business Park, in Humberston, near Grimsby. Managing Director David Mann hosted the October meeting of the Chamber’s North East
Lincolnshire Area Council and was presented with a patron’s plaque during the meeting. He updated members on the progress of the business from its beginnings to its recent move into its purpose-built new home. David reminisced about how the Chamber and its International Trade Centre had helped him to win his first international contract, and the rest, as they say, is history.
David Mann is presented with the Patron’s Plaque for Pattesons Glass from Chamber Vice President Irene Keal
Gary Taylor (centre) of Wilkin Chapman Rollits is presented with the firm’s Patron’s Plaque by Chamber President Kirk Akdemir and Vice President Irene Keal
Paul Jackson (centre) is presented with Hull Trains Patron’s Plaque by Chamber President Kirk Akdemir and Vice President Irene Keal
Member News
The latest news, success stories and updates from members of Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce.
Double appointment ‘down dock’
Two new Directors have been appointed to the business behind Grimsby’s traditional and emerging port-based industries.
Danny Payne and Ben Walker have been welcomed onto the board of Grimsby Fish Dock Enterprises Ltd from within, bringing more than a quarter of a century of combined experience in the organisation to the top level.
The company, led by Chief Executive Martyn Boyers, oversees fish market and dock operations, sales and logistics, as well as significant activity in the wider port and offshore wind sector, with slipway services, dedicated training and quayside facilities all provided.
Danny first went ‘down dock’ 17 years ago to join his father as a lumper, working his way up through the different elements of market operations to become fish market manager. He becomes operations director.
He said: “It is a privilege to be asked to join the Board of Directors and to have a seat and voice at the table.
“I aim to help keep the business going in the right direction. Martyn and I have worked on a lot of projects, we know we can’t stand still, that we have got to keep moving forward.
That’s what we do together well.
“I’m a Grimsby lad, my dad was a fisherman and my grandad was a fisherman, so to be on
the board of directors at GFDE is quite an honour.”
Ben joined the company in 2013, having worked in private accountancy practice in northern Lincolnshire. He stepped up to Finance Manager in 2016.
“It means a lot, and recognises effort over a decade or so,” he said. “We’ve taken on quite a lot, with three additional trading companies starting, all of which are very different, and I enjoy working with the people within them.
“I’m looking forward to ensuring we remain a profitable operation, where we can invest and grow the business further. I see the port as the biggest opportunity.”
Exhibition highlights Lincolnshire’s spirit
The inaugural Great Exhibition for Lincolnshire has drawn to a close with a resounding message: Our region is brimming with talent, creativity, industry and innovation.
It brought together a remarkable gathering of local champions, pioneering entrepreneurs, international dignitaries and visionary investors. The brainchild of the Mayor of Lincolnshire, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, it was inspired by the legacy of the 1851 Great Exhibition, a modern revival and bold celebration of Lincolnshire’s identity.
Delivered by the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority, the event marked a turning point in Lincolnshire’s journey. With new devolved powers from the UK government, the authority is now driving forward a new agenda focused on economic growth, infrastructure, and sustainability – while honouring Lincolnshire’s unique character and natural beauty.
Dame Andrea said: “This exhibition began as a pledge in my mayoral manifesto and has come to life as a celebration of our region’s ambition and enterprise.
“It has been our opportunity to shine a spotlight on ‘Brand Lincolnshire’ – to share our story with the world and demonstrate the strength, creativity and resilience of our communities and industries.”
The exhibition drew high-level participation from across the UK and around the world, including delegations from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, India, Kurdistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, Israel and Taiwan.
More than 90 exhibitors from across Lincolnshire and beyond took part at the Lincolnshire Showground.
Andrew Oliver, left, and Martyn Boyers, second right, pictured with Ben Walker, second left, and Danny Payne, with fishing and offshore wind vessels moored in the dock beyond
Task force to expand Business Week
Humber Business Week leaders have welcomed the launch of a south bank task force as a significant step towards developing the annual festival of business across the Humber.
Pat Coyle, Chair of Humber Business Week, said increasing support from the south bank business community has driven the creation of the task force, which is acting to expand and improve the Biz Week programme.
The build-up will include “get ready” events in the new year on both banks of the Humber to offer tips and guidance on how to organise and present a first class event. There will also be separate programme launches after Easter on the north and south bank.
Pat said: “We already had a small group on the south bank that has organised some outstanding events on their side of the Humber and encouraged attendance at activities on the north bank. The task force is building on that. Organisations also represented at the meeting include the Grimsby Town Foundation and Phillips 66.”
The Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce puts on one of the biggest events in Business Week, the Chamber Expo, which will be taking place next year on Tuesday, 2 June, at the Mercure Hull Grange Park Hotel at Willerby.
Planning for next year’s event, which is
open to all business on the north and south bank of the Humber, is already well underway, with the venue booked and talks with sponsors ongoing to build on the success of this year’s event which was the biggest and best supported since the Covid pandemic.
Pat said: “We will continue to seek feedback and engagement with stakeholders from both sides of the estuary to make Humber Business
Week 2026 bigger and better than ever as a showcase and celebration for all businesses and support organisations in the region.”
Humber Business Week 2026 will begin on Monday 1 June and conclude with The Business Day at Bridlington Spa on Friday 5 June. For the latest news as the programme is announced visit: humberbusinessweek.co.uk
The Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Expo will again be one of the major events in Business Week in 2026
Picture: Kevin Greene Photography
New Member Spotlight
If you like to appear in our New Member Spotlight, here’s your chance – email David Hooper at d.hooper@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk
Name: David Ramsden
Job title:
Director
Name of the business: Den Architecture Ltd
What does your business do?
The design and running of a wide range of projects of various size and sector. Working on a £250,000 retail conversion to a £75m residential tower.
Describe your business in a nutshell
An architect’s practice established in the late 80s, with an inclusive philosophy and ‘no limit’ route to grow for our staff. A company providing a client focused and very commercial service.
Where is it based?
Leeds, Hull and London.
Where does it operate?
Nationwide, from Glasgow to Southampton and beyond.
How long has it been going? 36 years.
How many staff are in the team? 20.
What makes it unique?
All staff can ultimately become significant shareholders of the business.
Why do you hope to gain from your Chamber membership?
To further increase our presence in the region and get to understand local businesses and their requirements.
What do you enjoy most about working in our region?
The people. Always friendly and welcoming. Nostalgia – I spent seven years living here during my university years.
What was your first job?
Junior Architectural Technician – started in 1973!
What do you never go to work without?
My iPad.
What one change would help your business the most?
Faster rail links from Liverpool to Hull, stopping in Manchester, Leeds, Bradford and branching to Sheffield on the way.
What’s the best way for people to contact you?
Email d.ramsden@den.uk.com or just call me on 0113 2884532.
David Ramsden loves working in our region as the people are always friendly and welcoming
A recently completed Vehicle Maintenance Unit and Headquarters in Pocklington.
Changes: Des Hudson and Bob Walder
Des Hudson named Ongo’s new Chair
Ongo has announced the appointment of Des Hudson as the new Chair of the Board. He will succeed Bob Walder, who is stepping down after nine years of dedicated service.
Des Hudson’s appointment follows a rigorous and competitive recruitment process. Four standout candidates reached the final stage, participating in interviews in July. A tenant panel played a crucial role in the selection.
Des impressed both the interview panel and the tenant panel with his thoughtful reflections, sector expertise, and commitment to values-led leadership. His selection was unanimous.
Des expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: “I am honoured to have been appointed to the Ongo Board and invited to serve as Chair. I’m looking forward to meeting colleagues on the Board and throughout Ongo.
“I am committed to building on the successes and good judgement of my predecessors, and to facing both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Ongo and our staff.”
About Des Hudson Des brings extensive leadership experience across housing, legal, financial, and commercial sectors. Most recently, he served as Chair of the Wrekin Housing Group and continues to hold several key non-executive roles, including Chair of the Trustees at Open Door Family Centre, Chair of the Credit Services Association Ltd, and Board Member and Senior Independent Director at I-Com International Ltd – a digital marketing agency structured as a staff cooperative. His previous roles include Chief Executive positions at the Law Society and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, along with senior roles in media and financial services. Des is a qualified lawyer and resides in Shropshire.
Farewell from Bob
Reflecting on his nine-year tenure, Bob Walder shared: “Being Chair is so much easier when you’re surrounded by great people. I’m proud that we’ve continued to attract equally talented individuals, something that speaks volumes about the strength of the organisation.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to be part of this journey, something I will carry with me always. I’ll be watching with pride as Ongo continues to grow and thrive.”
Young recruits join the team at Ideal Heating
Ideal Heating is continuing to invest for the future with the latest intake of young talent at its Hull headquarters.
The heating industry leader has welcomed its latest cohort of apprentices and graduates, expanding the company’s commitment to providing high-quality training opportunities.
The new starters are three apprentices and three graduates, all based at Ideal Heating’s headquarters site in National Avenue. They will work alongside the company’s experienced professionals, learning from mentors with years of experience in their fields.
‘We recognise the talent, energy and fresh thinking that apprentices and graduates bring to the business’
Ideal Heating employs around 800 people at its Hull site, which is undergoing a £60m transformation as the company leads UK heating industry’s transition from gas boilers to low-carbon heating solutions.
The business is also investing heavily in reskilling its workforce and developing the next generation of heating engineers and technicians.
Miriam Moore, Ideal Heating’s HR Director (Designate), said: “We recognise the talent, energy and fresh thinking that apprentices and graduates bring to the business and they play a vital role in shaping the future of our industry.
“As a company, we’re committed to investing in their development and providing them with the skills and opportunities to help
them to grow into the next generation of industry leaders. We’ve made a deliberate shift in our recruitment tactics to target graduates, as well as apprentices, and to host open days to showcase our business culture and what we can offer. We’re able to provide young people with valuable industry experiences and peerto-peer support to help them develop and grow in a supportive environment.”
Ideal Heating works with training providers, including Humberside Engineering Training Association (HETA) and Humber Energy Skills Training Academy (HESTA), to deliver its apprenticeship programmes.
The latest intake of apprentices are all aged 18 and take the number on apprenticeship programmes within the business currently to 29. The new starters are Quality Engineer Apprentice Holly Owst; R&D Design – Heat Pumps Apprentice Max Sladzevskis; and Heat Pump Technician Apprentice Robbie Kew.
Holly said: “The company culture here is amazing, and I’ve felt welcomed immediately. The engineering industry can sometimes present challenges for women, but Ideal Heating has made it absolutely clear that talent and dedication is all that matters.”
As well as offering apprenticeships to school and college leavers, Ideal Heating partners with recruitment specialist Emmerson Kitney to target new graduates and offer young people the chance to take their first steps onto the career ladder after university.
Henry Chik, Adam Scanlan, and Eddie Kirkham, have all joined the business as Development Engineers after studying engineering-based degrees.
Investing in the future: Ideal Heating young recruits
HullBID Awards will be a night to remember
HullBID has begun the countdown to its annual awards with a full house of sponsors eager to recognise and reward their city centre colleagues for another year of hard work and outstanding achievement.
A dedicated area of the HullBID website is live now for businesses to submit their entries and, although the closing date isn’t until Tuesday 20 January 2026, the BID team are expecting a rush of interest.
Kathryn Shillito, HullBID Executive Director, said: “From humble beginnings in 2014 with a simple ceremony at Hull Truck Theatre, the HullBID Awards have grown in kudos and reputation. Numbers of entries and guests at the glittering celebration night have increased every year. In 2025 we welcomed more than 340 people to a spectacular gala dinner and with strong interest already we’re expecting an event bigger turnout for 2026.”
The awards night will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Friday 27 February 2026. Awards will be presented in 10 categories – Innovation, Stylish or Welcoming Premises, Outstanding Employee or Team, Longevity, Customer Service Excellence, Contribution to the Community, Commitment to Health and Wellbeing, Best in Food and Drink, Best Place to Work and Outstanding Contribution.
‘We’re already blown away by the response to the awards’
Entries can be submitted online through the HullBID website. Businesses can challenge for as many categories as they wish providing a separate form is completed for each entry.
All the shortlisted businesses will receive some complimentary tickets to the dinner, which is HullBID’s biggest networking event
of the year and will include a three-course meal and entertainment.
Kathryn added: “We’re already blown away by the response to the awards, with sponsors snapping up opportunities in record time. As a not for profit organisation, any financial support we receive is directly ploughed back into making the HullBID Awards one of the biggest and most exciting nights of the year, and we are grateful to all the businesses which have stepped up to shine a light on city centre businesses.”
Full details of how to enter can be found at: hullbidevents.co.uk/bidawards
Funding for Immingham and Habrough
The Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Philip Jackson, has welcomed news of a funding boost of up to £20m over the next decade for Immingham and Habrough, saying it will support the authority’s ambition to build a stronger economy and stronger communities.
The Government has announced that 264 neighbourhoods will receive a share of £5bn which will be invested across the UK to give ‘local people the power to transform their hometowns’ as part of its new ‘Pride in Place Programme’.
In addition to the £20m for Immingham and Habrough, with £2m every year for 10 years, North East Lincolnshire Council has been given a further £1.5m immediately to upgrade public spaces with new green spaces, play areas and sports and leisure facilities.
Cllr Philip Jackson, said: “This is great news and we warmly welcome this funding as we look
to deliver our ambition across North East Lincolnshire of building a stronger economy and stronger communities with the help of those who live and work in it.”
Councillor Stewart Swinburn, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Infrastructure and Transport and Immingham resident of over 50 years, said: “I could not be happier to welcome this funding into Immingham and Habrough. We have already seen what great work is happening in regenerating
Grimsby and Cleethorpes so this funding will only add to what is without a doubt a positive future for our borough and its residents.”
Andy Hopkins, Chief Officer & Town Clerk at Immingham Town Council, said: “This is fantastic news for our Town. The Town Council is currently finalising the Immingham Town Plan and has been consulting with residents as well as partners to highlight areas of concern, and what developments could be made to improve our town.”
MAIN PICTURE: All the shortlisted businesses at the 2025 HullBID Awards
INSET: HullBID Executive Director Kathryn Shillito speaking at the 2025 awards
Pride in Place Programme will help to improve Immingham and Habrough for residents
Elis invited to take to the waves
The Chamber’s new Information and Awards Officer, Elis Ballard, set sail from Grimsby Docks onto the Humber Estuary with the team from Systematic onboard CatZero.
CatZero Humber is a charity dedicated to the support of people of all ages, including young people and families, helping them into employment or training. Its unique way of working for the last 15 years, through confidence-building activities, tailored plans and by using the organisation’s 72ft Challenge yacht as a tool for change, has helped hundreds of people back into education, training, or simply on the path towards their goals.
‘Many thanks to the crew from CatZero for an unforgettable afternoon of sailing and a brilliant day to remember’
As part of the company’s 50th anniversary year, Systematic is proud to be a corporate sponsor of this incredible charity. The team from Systematic sail on CatZero a couple of times a year and invite clients and partners onboard to join them for this unique sailing experience.
Elis said: “It was a wonderful experience! I’d like to say a huge thank you to Jacqui Vear and Pete Allison from Systematic for inviting me to join them on this voyage. The team were also joined by Lee Pearson from Sailors’ Children’s Society and Nick Alstrom from Wilkin Chapman Rollits.
“And of course many thanks to the crew from CatZero for an unforgettable afternoon of sailing and a brilliant day to remember.”
CatZero offers a unique opportunity to challenge, motivate and bond teams and the three-hour taster sails are extremely popular.
Working closely with the crew, it’s a unique opportunity to experience sailing first-hand and get involved with all aspects of sailing by becoming part of the team on deck. From their base in the Lincolnshire Wolds, Systematic has spent over 50 years helping UK
Young sailors complete trip of a lifetime with CatZero
Two young people from the Humber region have experienced the adventure of a lifetime thanks to the Thomas Boyd Sailing Bursary, provided by The Fishmongers’ Company, which funded their places on a transformative voyage from Norway to Hull in May 2025. Eli, 26, and Lili, 19, both from Grimsby, were nominated by the CatZero team to receive the bursary funding due to the commitment and progress they had shown throughout their course. They flew from Humberside to Amsterdam and onwards to Stavanger, where they joined the crew of CatZero’s 72-foot Challenge yacht for the return leg of the voyage. Before joining CatZero’s 12-week personal development programme, which they completed in October 2024, neither had been in work. Since then, their futures have taken a new shape. Eli now works in hospitality and has achieved six qualifications, including the RYA Competent Crew certificate, while Lili achieved four qualifications, also including the RYA Competent
Crew certificate. She has just completed her Level 3 Engineering course at Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education and hopes to pursue a career in the offshore wind industry.
The bursary honours the late Thomas Boyd OBE, former chairman of Boyd Line and a lifelong champion of Hull’s fishing industry. A passionate sailor and advocate for youth development, Thomas helped create opportunities for young people to experience the challenges of life at sea.
His daughter, Henrietta Boyd, is a Trustee of CatZero and is proud to see her father’s legacy of helping young people access opportunities that build skills, confidence, and resilience. She said: “My father took great pleasure in seeing The Fishmongers’ Company choose to support CatZero. His ties to the Humber region and the fishing community spanned his entire life. The sea and sailing were his enduring passions, and he truly appreciated how transformative sailing could be, particularly on extended voyages. He
brands achieve their goals with efficiency, creativity, and sustainability. Evolving from print into a wider portfolio of mailing and marketing products, the business works in partnership with clients as a seamless extension of their teams. Their design agency, oodle, adds expertise in branding, graphic design, and motion graphics. In 2025, Systematic’s approach was recognised with the Forrester Boyd Business Excellence Award and the HETA Green Sustainability Award at the Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards.
would have been immensely proud of Lili and Eli, who demonstrated formidable resilience sailing back from Norway in demanding conditions as part of the Fishmongers’ Thomas Boyd Bursary trip. Our family is thrilled they were able to undertake such an experience, and it was a real joy to welcome them home and hear about their adventure. Congratulations to both, and heartfelt thanks to the dedicated CatZero team.”
Eli, Henrietta and Lili onboard CatZero
Elis sets sail on next stage of her career with a memorable trip on CatZero
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Freight & Transportation Spotlight Features
In this issue we take a look at the Logistics, Freight & Transportation and Creative Industry sectors.
Does size matter?
The differences between large and small freight forwarders
When looking for a freight forwarder, you might be immediately drawn to the big multinational firms. After all, they will have the best technology, the best connections and the best experience… but will they be able to meet your exact needs? Business Intelligence takes a look at the key differences between large and small freight forwarders to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Reputation
Large freight forwarders will mostly likely come with an established reputation and longstanding brand. They can let this brand speak for itself – it will help them win new customers, who find comfort in familiarity and know that they won’t have to do a lot of research to make sure the firm is reputable.
Smaller freight forwarders might not have as recognisable a brand and as such, have slowly built up a client base. They might rely on recommendations and word of mouth to gain new business.
Pricing and services
A larger freight forwarder will most likely offer far more services than a smaller firm. If you have very specific needs – express shipping, for example, or the need for chilled transport – it is more likely that a larger firm will be able to offer exactly what you’re looking for. They can also handle much larger volumes. However, their services can also be more expensive.
A smaller firm might not be able to handle such large volumes, but they can offer more costeffective and personalised service.
Escalation process
With large freight forwarders, the escalation process can be complicated. It’s likely that your customer rep won’t have the authority to change anything when there is an issue – they might not even have the technical know how to set things straight themselves.
Smaller freight forwarders might have fewer staff, but that comes with the additional benefit of more autonomy and control over their accounts. Employees will most likely have a wider range of knowledge and experience when it comes to issues that may arise, meaning that they will have the tools they need to make decisions for themselves, without waiting for upper management to step in or sign off.
Flexibility
Large freight forwarders will have defined processes and actions for any project. They are also able use of the latest technology, such as automation, which will make the process much smoother. The downside of this however is that when certain tasks are done in a certain way, there isn’t room for much flexibility. Smaller firms in particular might struggle to fit a ‘one size fits all’ model.
Smaller freight forwarders have the ability to customise their work flow to better accommodate their client’s needs. However, they might not have access to the same kind of technology.
Industry network
A large freight forwarder will be able to call on industry contacts all over the world. They will also have the knowledge of local customs rules and on the ground contacts who can step in if things go wrong. However, larger firms may prioritise doing business with other large firms, and if you’re an SME it may be that your business is not considered as urgent.
A smaller freight forwarder might not have the same industry contacts, and their global reach might not be as extensive. However, a smaller freight firm might have more niche industry knowledge, which is perfect if you have niche shipping needs!
Relationship
A good relationship with your freight forwarder will make the process go much smoother.
A large freight forwarder might not take the time to get to know you personally. You can rely on their expertise and reputation, but the personal connection might be lacking.
Troubleshooting may be automated – this can save valuable time and money, but it can also be frustrating if you’d rather speak to a real person.
In contrast, a smaller freight forwarder may be able to offer more time to dedicate to each customer.
Lights, strategy,
action!
Why strategic video content is redefining business communication
As audiences demand richer, more authentic content, video has become the cornerstone of modern brand storytelling. Kris Bilski (pictured), Managing Director of Astor Film Productions, explores how businesses can harness its power for real commercial impact.
In the past decade, video has evolved from a marketing accessory into one of the most influential communication tools available to businesses. Whether used for recruitment, training, customer engagement or brand storytelling, well-crafted video content can transform how organisations connect with audiences.
What was once viewed as a creative indulgence is now recognised as a measurable driver of business performance. Research consistently shows that video increases engagement, boosts retention and enhances conversion rates. In an attention-driven economy, moving image has become the medium that cuts through complexity and delivers messages that people remember.
From visuals to value High-quality production remains vital, but today the most successful videos are those built on strategy. Businesses that treat video as part of a wider communication plan see far stronger returns than those who approach it as a one-off campaign.
According to Kris, the key lies in connecting creativity to purpose.
“Video works best when it begins with a clear understanding of audience behaviour,” says Kris. “Before a single frame is filmed, we ask what problem the content is solving, how it fits the brand narrative, and what outcome we want to measure.”
This approach ensures video serves business objectives rather than existing as a stand-alone creative exercise.
Storytelling that builds trust
Modern audiences respond to authenticity. Instead of overt advertising, they are drawn to stories that feel relatable, human and transparent. For internal communications, this might mean using film to highlight employee voices or demonstrate company culture. For customer-facing content, it could involve real-world case studies or behind-the-scenes perspectives.
Kris notes that storytelling remains the most powerful technique to convey trust and emotion. “People remember stories, not statistics. When a business communicates its purpose through a strong narrative, it builds credibility and connection.”
‘As hybrid working, digital learning and brand transparency continue to shape corporate culture, organisations that use video intelligently will stand out’
Measuring success
With the rise of analytics and digital distribution, the impact of video can now be tracked more precisely than ever. Engagement rates, viewer retention and conversion data provide clear insight into what resonates. Companies that evaluate these results can continuously refine their content strategy and maximise ROI.
Kris advises organisations to view video production as an ongoing process rather than a single project. Regular content, tailored for multiple platforms, keeps audiences engaged and strengthens brand consistency.
A changing industry
Advances in technology have made professional production more accessible, while audience expectations
have risen. Businesses are increasingly seeking partners who can combine creative excellence with commercial understanding. The most effective agencies integrate with their clients’ marketing or communications teams, ensuring alignment from concept to delivery.
The UK’s creative sector has responded with innovation, blending cinematic production standards with agile digital workflows. Astor Film Productions represents this evolution, combining artistic craft with data-led insight to help organisations communicate with clarity and confidence.
The future of business storytelling Video is no longer the future of communication; it is the present. As hybrid working, digital learning and brand transparency continue to shape corporate culture, organisations that use video intelligently will stand out. Whether produced for streaming platforms or internal channels, the medium’s strength lies in its ability to humanise complex ideas and inspire action.
As Kris concludes: “Video is not just about looking professional. It is about making people care. When a story is told with purpose, the business results follow.”
Focus On: Local Skills Improvement Plan
Making sure we deliver the skills of the future
Apartnership of employers and training providers from across Hull and East Yorkshire took colleagues behind the scenes to see the latest developments in digital construction tuition at its latest quarterly forum.
Hull & East Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (HEY LSIP) visited the new Digital Construction Academy at Sewell Group, where delegates were given demonstrations in how to use the latest technology by students from Winifred Holtby Academy.
They were also briefed on why it matters, with industry experts highlighting the rocketing requirements for new talent in construction and also advocating recruitment from less obvious sources.
Hannah Crookes, Project Lead for HEY LSIP, later announced that the organisation has secured another round of government funding and is now working on delivering further forums and working groups to connect employers with providers of essential training and skills support.
Hannah said: “The funding will enable us to further engage with employers across the local area regarding their future skills needs to develop our next LSIP, which will go live in the summer of 2026. It will also support us in
Some of the speakers at the LSIP forum with a robotic dog that can be deployed for construction tasks that are dirty, dull and dangerous. From left: Mark Boothby (Sewell Construction), Rod Chambers (HEY LSIP), Sam Hind (Humber Training Group), Colonel Simon Banks-Cooper (Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force), Carla Prickett (Construction Industry Training Board) and Hannah Crookes (HEY LSIP)
Focus On: Local Skills Improvement Plan
continuing to address the priorities of the current LSIP.
“We want to ensure that our local employers have a say on what training and upskilling support they need to support their workforce and future growth, which in turn will influence what our local providers have to offer. At the same time we will be here to support employers in understanding the skills system and accessing training. Overall this will better support our economy by ensuring our workforce are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to sustain and grow our businesses.”
FOCUS
LSIP forum talking points
Between now and 2029, the construction industry needs an additional 239,000 people. An attitude towards careers survey carried out this year by the Chartered Institute of Building found that 47% of people reported that construction wasn’t covered by the careers advice they received.
We have an ageing workforce where 24% are over 55 so we need to attract younger people to our industry. Our Digital Construction Academy is about how we tackle the skills gap. It really shows young people how you can bring digital skills into the existing trades within the industry.
Mark Boothby Joint Managing Director of Sewell Construction
In the Army Cadet Force young people develop self-confidence, self-esteem and self-efficacy as they come through that experience and that fits into the world of work. A lot of people don’t know about the depth and strength of experience that young people get from the ACF. We work across every sector and only about 20% of cadets pursue careers in the military, so it is the civilian workforce that gets the benefit from the rest of them.
Simon Banks-Cooper Hon Col of the Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force
Construction has an ageing workforce and we see that from our pay data. We need to stem losing people at the top and end and bring in new entrants at the bottom end. Nothing gets done in the country without construction.
We are at the heart of everything and there is so much to construction. It’s not just the trades. There are so many other parts to it – design, the new technology that is coming through for net zero, renewables, retro fit. There are so many opportunities and it will take you anywhere in the world.
Fiona
Gamwell
Business Support Manager at Hudson Contract
It’s good that there are so many people here from different places. When you speak to them they are all interested and now I am too.
Kian Banks Student at Winifred Holtby Academy
have the people they need to grow. It’s hugely significant because not only is construction an area that needs people to come into it already, but also the government is looking at building 1.5 million new homes over the next four years, which means another 100,000 people need to come into the industry.
“We have got to make sure the infrastructure and the businesses, partners and key stakeholders can support the recruitment requirements to bring young people or even people from other sectors into construction.”
apprentices. They’re generally in brick, plumbing, plastering, joinery, electrical. Basic trades that everybody needs in the local area, and mainly for micro businesses.
“A lot of them are one-man bands wanting to give back to the construction industry –somebody took them on as an apprentice and they want to give somebody else that opportunity.”
Mark Boothby, Joint Managing Director of Sewell Construction, told how the Digital Construction Academy combines tuition in theory and 3D modelling to show young people the importance of digital skills to traditional trades.
Carla Prickett a Senior Customer Engagement Manager at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) told the forum of the importance of the LSIP and its network.
She said: “We are here to support the industry to access training and skills so they
Fiona Gamwell, Business Support Manager at Hudson Contract, said her company is “passionate about everything in construction” as it provides tax and employment law solutions to the industry.
She added: “ We have supported local businesses in East Yorkshire and North Yorkshire in taking more than 300 on trade
‘We want to ensure that our local employers have a say on what training and upskilling support they need to support their workforce and future growth’
Mark said: “We invited the LSIP forum to the facility so we can showcase exactly what the construction industry is about and how we tackle the skills gap in the industry and to be able to show what the industry will look like in the future.”
Kian Banks, a student at Winifred Holtby Academy, told how he got to grips with the technology quickly and was able to demonstrate the equipment.
He said: “I came here last week and I enjoyed it so I came today to talk about how to use an algorithm to put the pipes in a plumbing system. Before that I wanted to be a multi skilled engineer but I found this more interesting and it’s changed what I want to do.”
Students from Winifred Holtby Academy helped LSIP forum delegates understand the technology in use at Sewell Group’s Digital Construction Academy. From left: Kate Buurman of Sewell Construction with students
Emma Pearce, Jess Staples, Kian Banks, Tom Moss and Rob Alexander-Duncan, Head of Design and Technology at Winifred Holtby Academy
Sector Focus
The latest news from the International Trade, Legal & Finance, Community & Business, Manufacturing and Motoring industries.
Former apprentice passes torch
Awoman who took her first steps into the world of work as a nervous apprentice 10 years ago urged other young people to “go for it”, after her employers made a presentation to mark the special anniversary.
Chloe Hollands recalled how she became really worried as a lack of confidence resulting from her natural shyness was compounded by fears of getting things wrong on her first day at work.
Ten years on, Chloe has risen through the ranks at AaGlobal Language Services, playing her part in the significant expansion of the business and along the way passing the benefit of her experience to other young recruits.
‘My message now to anybody considering an apprenticeship would be to go for it’
Kirk Akdemir, CEO of AaGlobal, said Chloe’s success demonstrates the value of apprentices to businesses. Kirk also welcomed the announcement by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at this year’s Labour Party Conference that the government will invest in apprenticeships.
Chloe said: “My message now to anybody considering an apprenticeship would be to go for it. My big concern was that I wouldn’t know how to do certain things and the company would want someone with experience, but it’s not like that at all. It’s about going there and getting the experience then training up while you do the job. I’m still using the skills I learned 10 years ago.”
Chloe was 18 when she joined AaGlobal as a business admin apprentice within the interpreting
department in summer 2015 after leaving Wyke College. Tasks included assigning interpreters, speaking to them and to clients, and handling the bookings. The work involved regular communication by phone and email and, with the ongoing support of the management team, Chloe’s success provided a platform for her to progress to more senior roles.
She worked on service delivery, looking more at how the company can enhance its services for clients,
and then on improving the overall quality of the business. In 2024 Chloe moved into compliance, dealing with such matters as accreditations and ISO. Her current role is Quality & Compliance Manager.
Chloe said: “The job is really satisfying and the company has given me the opportunity to explore a lot of areas across our business, identify what I enjoy doing and how I can get to know my strengths. We have a good track record for developing apprentices.”
Kirk Akdemir, who founded AaGlobal more than 30 years ago, marked the anniversary with a special presentation at the company’s office in King Edward Street, Hull.
He said: “Chloe’s experience shows that the apprenticeship route is a good opportunity for young people from the local area and they can make a big contribution. Chloe’s memories of those first-day fears are a big help when it comes to supporting other young recruits.”
Chloe Hollands with Kirk Akdemir at AaGlobal’s head office in Hull
New logistic route is on track
East Yorkshire-based Neill & Brown Global Logistics has launched a European rail freight service in a joint venture with its Italian logistics partner, Sogedim.
The two companies have made a significant investment in Huckepack trailers to provide seamless intermodal transport to and from Italy. The new service, which is suitable for a wide range of goods and complements Neill & Brown’s established European road and sea services, offers customers a lower-carbon alternative on one of the continent’s busiest freight corridors.
Six of the specialist reinforced trailers, which are designed for rail and road transport, have been delivered to Neill & Brown to
transport customers’ goods bound for Italy.
They will be taken by Neill & Brown’s trucks from its Hessle headquarters via road and then ferry from Hull, before being lifted onto a freight train at Zeebrugge.
Carl Andrew, Neill & Brown’s Logistics Director, said: “We have a superb relationship with Sogedim and believe this joint venture has great potential.
“It is a major investment in an efficient and reliable mode of transport. By taking advantage of the existing rail freight infrastructure on the UK-Italy route, we can now provide more choice to our customers, who are increasingly looking for less carbon intensive haulage solutions.”
UKEF issues “game changing” SEB policy
UKEF recently issued its first SEB policy to a small manufacturer in the North of England for the shipment to a new buyer in Turkey.
• The exporter applied via the new online application, for insurance cover for a £25k shipment to their new buyer in Turkey.
• EXIP underwriter conducted UKEF’s standard compliance checks. i) UKEF’s compliance checks (AHC) to establish the business in Turkey exists; ii) UKEF underwriter asks the exporter how they know the buyer exists/ if they’ve been out to see the buyer (in this case, they have); iii) In this case – the underwriters asked IFE in Turkey if they can also verify the existence of the buyer.
• No credit check or assessment was conducted on the buyer in Turkey. There was insufficient public financial information available on the buyer so we would have declined cover without the Small Export Builder (SEB).
• Policy is issued to insure 80% of the £25k shipment.
• When the exporter is then paid by the Turkish buyer, for the £25k shipment – according to payment terms in the contract, they can declare this to UKEF and under the same policy, ask for cover for a £37.5k shipment (50% uplift).
• When the exporter is paid by the Turkish buyer for the £37.5k shipment, they can then declare this to UKEF and under the same policy, ask for cover for a £56.25k shipment (50% uplift on the 37.5k).
• And so on, declaring positive trading experience to UKEF, up to £100k.
• If the Turkish buyer fails to pay for the very first shipment of £25k, the exporter can make a claim under the terms of the EXIP policy for up to £20k (80% cover).
• If the Turkish buyer fails to pay for the second shipment of £37.5k, the exporter can make a claim under the terms of the EXIP policy for up to £30k (80% cover). Etc.
This new product will be a game changer to support small transactions and companies to get paid by their international customers.
To find out more and arrange a meeting with your local UK Export Finance representative, please get in touch with l.holt@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk
Sector Focus: Legal & Finance
Accountants welcome trainees
Forrester Boyd, one of the region’s leading accountancy firms, has proudly welcomed four new trainees to its growing team. Known for investing in homegrown talent and building longterm careers, the firm continues its tradition of nurturing local students into skilled professionals.
This year’s cohort includes Nada Hussein, Max Chapman, Rhianna Jennings, and Emily Webster – each bringing fresh energy, ambition, and a strong connection to the local area. All four new starters will be part of the Forrester Boyd Trainee Academy, a structured programme designed to offer not only career opportunities but also comprehensive support towards professional qualifications. The academy provides a fully-funded study package to help trainees achieve globally recognised chartered accountancy qualifications while working fulltime and earning a salary.
‘Forrester Boyd is well known for its commitment to training and developing staff’
Trainees benefit from dedicated study leave for exams and revision, and Forrester Boyd goes one step further by covering associated costs such as petrol, lunch, and hotel stays for study days. This ensures that trainees can focus entirely on their learning and development, without financial barriers.
Nada Hussein joins the Scunthorpe office from John Leggott College. Her first introduction to Forrester Boyd was through work experience, which sparked a genuine interest in accountancy despite having limited knowledge of the field. Max Chapman, now based at the firm’s Louth office, studied at Tollbar Sixth Form and was drawn to Forrester Boyd because of its strong local reputation and the meaningful role it plays in the community.
From Franklin College, Rhianna Jennings joins the
...as the firm scoops bronze at awards night
Forrester Boyd also received the bronze award at the prestigious award ceremony in London for the annual Accounting Excellence Awards.
Shortlisted in the Large Firm of the Year category, Forrester Boyd were up against some goliaths in the accountancy field. With 10 firms on the shortlist, Forrester Boyd came away with the bronze accolade.
Philip George, Partner at Forrester Boyd said: “I am so incredibly proud of this achievement. To get bronze in the large practice category really is a fantastic recognition of Forrester Boyd’s continued success.”
Winning the gold spot was top 25 firm AAB.
The event, held at the Roundhouse in Camden, brought together leading accountancy firms from across the UK to celebrate excellence, innovation, and dedication within the profession.
Speaking about the award, Jim Livermore, Chief Operations Office for Forrester Boyd said: “This is an amazing endorsement for all the team at Forrester Boyd to be immensely proud of. Results and recognition such as this do not come along without the hard work, loyalty and dedication of an amazing team who work across all offices of Forrester Boyd.”
Grimsby office. She discovered the opportunity through her college teacher and is eager to gain new knowledge and grow both personally and professionally. Also from Franklin College, Emily Webster joins Rhianna in the Grimsby office. Having previously completed work experience with the firm, Emily was already familiar with the welcoming culture at Forrester Boyd.
Forrester Boyd is well known for its commitment to training and developing staff, with 14 of the firm’s 17 current Partners having started their careers as trainees. This long-standing dedication to internal growth demonstrates the firm’s focus on retaining and progressing talent from within.
Carrie Jensen, Partner at Forrester Boyd, expressed her excitement at the arrival of this year’s new recruits. “It’s always exciting to see new faces join us, especially when they’ve come from local colleges and already have a connection to our firm. Nada, Max, Rhianna, and Emily are all bright, enthusiastic individuals with great potential. I can’t wait to see them grow and progress in their careers with us.”
This latest intake of trainees reaffirms Forrester Boyd’s longstanding belief in the importance of local recruitment and talent development.
Pictured (left to right) are Jim Livermore, Richard Walker, Alison Mitchell, Philip George and Matthew Priest
Partner Carrie Jensen (centre) with some of the firm's newest trainees
Sector Focus: Legal & Finance
High praise for Smailes Goldie apprenticeships
Smailes Goldie, a leading accounting firm based in East and North Yorkshire, has proudly been ranked second in the prestigious UK’s Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2025. This remarkable achievement highlights the firm’s sustained commitment to nurturing future talent and building rewarding career paths through its outstanding apprenticeship programmes.
‘This fantastic result reflects the hard work of our team’
The Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers list is an annual celebration of England’s leading small and medium-sized apprenticeship employers. It serves as an important guide for prospective apprentices, parents, and career advisers,
showcasing the organisations offering some of the best apprenticeship opportunities in the country.
Smailes Goldie has a longstanding reputation for developing the next generation of accountants, with many of its managers and partners having progressed through the firm’s apprenticeship route.
The firm’s learning and development programme continues to equip apprentices with the technical skills and personal qualities needed to thrive in the accounting profession.
Luke Taylor, Training Partner at Smailes Goldie, welcomed the latest ranking. He said: “We are incredibly proud to have been declared second best SME apprenticeship employer in the UK – what an incredible achievement. This fantastic result reflects the hard work of our team
and our ongoing commitment to developing future leaders within our profession. At Smailes Goldie, we remain dedicated to creating an environment where apprentices can learn, grow, and build fulfilling careers in accountancy.”
This year’s second-place ranking marks another impressive rise for the firm, which placed sixth in 2024 and
eighteenth in 2023. This upward trajectory reflects Smailes Goldie’s ongoing excellence and innovation in its apprenticeship programmes.
“We hope that in 2026 we may be able to take the top spot,” added Luke. “However, that will only be possible if we continue to invest in our apprentices and wider workplace culture, learning and development.”
Solicitors reflect on 150th anniversary
As Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP brings its 150th anniversary celebrations to a close, the firm is firmly focused on the future. The milestone has coincided with significant growth, including a series of senior appointments, further strengthening the firm’s capability and underlining its commitment to delivering exceptional client service.
Founded in Hull in 1874, Andrew Jackson is an active member of the business communities in each of the regions where it now operates, while serving clients nationally and internationally. From its original maritime roots, the firm has grown into a full service, multi-disciplinary practice. Today, it delivers clientfocused advice from offices in Hull, York, Grimsby and Scarborough to a diverse client base that includes plcs, SMEs, owner-managed businesses and individuals, while its maritime specialism continues to attract clients across the globe.
For Managing Partner Mark Pearson-Kendall, the anniversary
reflects not only the firm’s heritage but also its consistency, dependability and focus on service excellence. He believes that the milestone is a timely reminder of the importance of agility and evolution.
“The legal profession depends on reputation and capability,” he said.
“Marking 150 years is a privilege for
those working at Andrew Jackson today, but it also highlights the responsibility we carry to uphold the ethos, vision and heritage that brought us here. While we are shaping the future and driving strategy, we remain conscious that our time is part of a very proud history, and that knowledge adds focus to every decision we make.”
The recent appointments to the partnership and across the wider team have further embedded these values, and the firm has seen a significant increase in headcount during the course of the celebrations. Mark is clear that the firm’s growth is founded on the confidence and loyalty of its clients.
“The endorsement and positive feedback from our clients is the cornerstone of our development,” he said. “It drives our continual pursuit of excellence across the firm and provides invaluable insight into our strategy and future plans.”
The anniversary was marked with a programme of events across the region. Andrew Jackson was one of the main sponsors of Hull’s Freedom Festival in both 2024 and 2025. The firm also supported Yorkshire County Cricket Club fixtures in Scarborough, hosted regional economic discussions as part of Humber Business Week, and held a series of client and colleague events to mark the anniversary across its offices.
Smailes Goldie climbs to second in UK’s Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2025
Andrew Jackson managing partner Mark PearsonKendall, right, with senior partner Dominic Ward, making a speech to celebrate 150 years of the law firm at Hull Minster
Sector Focus: Community & Business
Boss sprinkles a little fun over milestone 60th anniversary
Colleagues and business associates have marked a milestone anniversary of a highly respected family business owner with praise for his “incredible dedication” and inspirational leadership.
Peter Brown, CEO of Neill & Brown Global Logistics, has clocked up 60 years at the wellknown East Yorkshire company which has been trading for 108 years.
An ice cream van pulled up to the Hessle site near Hull on 1
September so employees could celebrate with a sweet treat, with many reminiscing about their long career and relationship with Peter.
It was a fun nod to his start with the company. Working at a Hornsea amusement arcade as a teenager, he protested when his father said in no uncertain terms:
“You are coming to work for me at Neill & Brown from next week!”
Starting in 1965 in the post room, he soon moved through the ranks becoming MD in 1977 and then CEO in 2013.
For many years, working a seven-day week, he steadily grew the company which now provides comprehensive logistics services over two Humber sites and employs 145 people.
Alan Johnson, former MP for Hull West and Hessle, said: “One of the delights of being a local MP was discovering great businesses bringing jobs and prosperity to my constituents, and I soon realised that a top European logistics company was on my patch. Dealing with Peter established a relationship of respect and admiration that has transcended my time in politics.”
Ian Middleton, owner of Crossroads Truck and Bus, which has supplied Neill & Brown with more than 150 Volvo trucks over 43 years, said: “The culture Peter has built among his employees is renowned within the industry.”
Within the company, employees were keen to express their appreciation, with handyman Phil Hawes saying: “I'm proud to say that I was Peter’s first HGV driver. He’s a great boss and I wish good luck for the next 60 years!”
Managing director Colin Moody, who joined Neill & Brown in 1981as an office junior, said that much of the company’s success was founded on Peter’s leadership and him rewarding hard work.
‘The culture Peter has built among his employees is renowned within the industry’
“Negotiating on a deal is always a challenge as he always has his costings at his fingertips and is quick to firmly justify the figures. I have learnt over the years that the way to his heart is to take him for fish ‘n’ chips.
“He then lets me pay and negotiates a little more discount before we agree with a gentleman’s handshake!”
In a media business profile more than 20 years’ ago, Peter stated his ambition was to make the company more successful without losing the personal touch, for which Neill & Brown is still well known.
Peter Brown with his wife Moira
Green light for Freeport facilities
Humber Freeport has welcomed planning approval for two major developments within the Freeport’s Goole tax site.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Planning Committee has granted full planning permission to Finnish manufacturer Metsä Tissue and commercial property developer Wykeland Group to create the UK’s largest tissue paper mill, together with office space and associated infrastructure.
The facility, which will extend to around three million sq ft of space once complete, will be built in phases, supporting up to 400 direct jobs and creating a breadth of supply chain opportunities. It aims to increase the UK’s selfsufficiency in the manufacture of essential tissue products by more than 30 per cent.
At the same Planning Committee meeting, Henry Boot Developments (HBD) and landowner St John’s College Cambridge received outline planning consent for an industrial and manufacturing park.
That development sits on the south side of the Goole tax site, separated from the Metsä plot by the M62 motorway, and will create more than five million sq ft of industrial space. The site could accommodate buildings from 40,000 sq ft to one million sq ft.
Both planning approvals are subject to conditions and the signing of legal agreements.
‘For Goole, it is further recognition of the strength of the investment proposition in the town’
Professor Neal Juster, Interim Chair of Humber Freeport, said: “This is another very significant step forward for Humber Freeport, and for the two largescale developments within our Goole tax site.
“For Goole, it is further recognition of the strength of the investment proposition in the town. Its strategic location, connectivity and infrastructure make it an ideal location to
£10m development officially opened at business park
Commercial property developer Wykeland Group has officially opened a newly-completed £10m development at East Yorkshire’s Melton West business park.
Evolve @ Melton West provides growing companies with highquality, modern space in the heart of one of the region’s most soughtafter business locations.
Medequip, the UK’s leading provider of community equipment loan services, has already occupied one of Evolve’s two larger units, with Wykeland restructuring the development programme to enable the business to move in ahead of schedule in order to fulfill a major new contract.
Now, with the development complete, interest is growing in a second larger unit, of 37,000 sq ft, and five smaller, 5,000 sq ft units, with one of these already under offer.
Wykeland celebrated the completion of Evolve with a special opening event attended by local dignitaries and representatives of the Melton West business community.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council Leader, Cllr Anne Handley, cut the ribbon to declare the development officially open, with the event also attended by the council’s Chief Executive Designate, Paul Bellotti. Wykeland Managing Director Dominic Gibbons said: “We’re delighted to have completed this major new development at Melton West, providing commercial space which is best in class and unmatched for quality in the local area.”
In completing Evolve, Wykeland has delivered 85,000 sq ft of commercial space, split across seven units.
invest, creating high-quality direct employment and supply chain opportunities.
“We’re delighted to see Metsä Tissue and Wykeland Group secure planning permission for the tissue paper mill.
“A further economic uplift will be created by HBD and St John’s College Cambridge’s industrial and manufacturing park. Outline permission for this industrial cluster will enable the developers to market specific opportunities
and take forward the strong pipeline of enquiries for the site.”
Goole is one of three Humber Freeport tax sites, alongside Hull East and Able Humber Port, near Immingham.
The Goole site offers exceptional transport links and connectivity via road, rail and sea, and sits adjacent to existing developments from leading businesses including Siemens Mobility, Tesco and Guardian Glass.
The units cater for a broad range of businesses and uses, including industrial, manufacturing and distribution
All of the units are EPC A-rated, with rooftop solar panels, green living walls and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Cllr Handley, who is also East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Inward Investment, said: “We’re pleased to have supported Wykeland Group to enable the creation of a development of such exceptional quality.”
Finnish manufacturer Metsä Tissue and commercial property developer Wykeland Group has secured full planning permission to create the UK’s largest tissue paper mill in Goole, East Yorkshire, within Humber Freeport’s Goole tax site
East Riding of Yorkshire Council Leader Cllr Anne Handley cuts the ribbon to officially open Evolve @ Melton West with, from left, the council’s Chief Executive Designate Paul Bellotti, Wykeland Group Managing Director Dominic Gibbons and Wykeland Development Director Jonathan Stubbs
Motoring
Life can’t be all about work! Chamber Motoring reviews some of the latest offerings on the market.
In association with
As everything automotive seems to have become eye-wateringly expensive, DAVID HOOPER finds this Kia XCeed to be reassuringly affordable.
You’ve probably noticed, like me, that everything seems to have become eyewateringly expensive in the last few years, particularly in the automotive world, where cars I still think of as being in the £30-£45,000 price range are now nearer £60-£70, or in some cases £80,000.
So to discover that this perfectly acceptable and very well-equipped Kia XCeed could be yours for a smidge over £26,000 was something of a pleasant surprise, and this isn’t even the entry level model – that could be sitting on your drive for £24,610, while the rangetopping model is “only” £32,805.
Buy an XCeed though, and you certainly won’t feel as though you’ve bought an “affordable” car, it feels
reassuringly premium inside, is very nicely equipped with all the latest toys, is well put together, is lovely to drive and the model I tested still had that lovely “new car” smell about it when I opened the door in the morning.
The interior is very smart too, with a 10.25in touchscreen infotainment system standard on all models and a driver-focused cabin, with good quality soft touch materials throughout.
You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with voice control as standard and of course, Kia’s 7Year Warranty remains the longest in the industry, and can be
An affordable car with a premium feel
transferred to subsequent owners, which is attractive to second or even third owners.
ABOVE LEFT AND RIGHT: Sleek styling and a slightly raised ride height mean the XCeed not only looks good, but is easy to get in and out of
INSET OPPOSITE: The interior is comfortable and well equipped - but very black!
The XCeed is built exclusively for Europe in Slovakia and comes with three model choices, Pure, GT-Line and GT-Line S, six paint colours and one engine, the 1.5-litre T-GDi, combined with a choice of either six-speed manual or seven-speed DCT depending on specifications, along with 16 or 18in wheels.
Our GT-Line test car looks pretty smart, I thought, with its smart blue paintwork contrasted nicely with silver highlights and gloss black trim. Fancy rear lights and distinctive front light patterns add to the XCeed’s external appeal, along with the smart alloys, there’s really not much to dislike.
On the road, the car drives very well, the suspension set-up is good, well-damped and compliant, yet poised enough to pilot spiritedly through the odd bend or two. The engine is surprisingly lively in the mid-range too, and will pull well to complete A-road overtakes when
the need arises thanks to a nice torque curve. But why, oh why, does everyone drive at 45mph these days, regardless of the speed limit? Have you noticed?
The six-speed manual gearbox in our test car was light, precise and quite slick to use, and the reversing cameras with active guides are always a boon when squeezing into a tight spot. Call me old fashioned, but I still rely on my mirrors for manoeuvring, but a quick glance at the screen can always be a useful backup in a tight situation.
The Kia XCeed is an attractive proposition in my book, and with a good sized boot too, it offers practical family transport which will appeal across the age group, great for getting small children in and out without breaking your back, and also helpful for the oldies thanks to the slightly raised ride height of this practical cross-over style which is so popular at the moment.
Add to that an excellent spec, prices which won’t break the bank and a good warranty – it’s not hard to see why this is one of Kia’s best selling models in the UK.
TheVitalStatistics
MODEL: Kia XCeed
ENGINE: 1,482cc, 138bhp four-cylinder petrol engine, driving front wheels through 6-speed gearbox.
PERFORMANCE: Top speed 129 mph
0-62mph in 9.5 secs
ECONOMY: City: 38.2mpg Country: 47.9mpg Official combined: 44.8mpg.
Wheel World test average: 38.2mpg
CO2 EMISSIONS: 142g/km
FUEL TANK: 50 litres
INSURANCE: Group 17
PRICE: £26,085
WARRANTY: 7 years/100,000 miles
WEBSITE: www.kia.co.uk
• All data correct at time of publication.
‘Why, oh why, does everyone drive at 45mph these days, regardless of the speed limit? Have you noticed?’
MAIN PICTURE:
A trip to Flamborough Head on the East Yorkshire Coast was the perfect way to put this car through its paces
The Vital Statistics
MODEL: Mazda MX-5
Roadster 2.0 184PS
ENGINE: : 1998cc, 184PS
four-cylinder petrol engine, driving rear wheels through a 6-speed manual gearbox.
PERFORMANCE:
Top speed 136 mph
0-62mph in 6.5 secs
ECONOMY:
City: 30.7mpg
Country: 48.7mpg
Combined range: 41.5mpg
Wheel World test average: 41.2mpg
CO2 EMISSIONS: 153g/km
FUEL TANK: 45 litres
INSURANCE: Group 33
PRICE: £36,415
WARRANTY:
3 years/60,000 miles
WEBSITE: www.mazda.co.uk
• All data correct at time of publication.
Fourth gen MX-5 is still one of the best
A modern classic which is now better to drive than ever, DAVID HOOPER enjoys another stint behind the wheel of Mazda’s wonderful MX-5 roadster
MAIN PICTURE: Sporting its modern Aero Grey paintwork, this fabulous little sports car provides plenty of wind in the hair motoring with the roof down
RIGHT: The compact cockpit is focused around the driver, with a large rev counter dominating the three main dials on the dash
OPPOSITE TOP LEFT: The MX-5 conjures up images of 1960's style when it's roof is folded back
OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT: Pictured at Silverstone, the home of British motorsport, two of the MX-5s which contested the Britcar Championship notching up a few class wins and overall podiums along the way thanks to its legendary reliability
BOTTOM RIGHT: With bright red painted brake callipers contrasting with the black and grey paintwork, this example features an attractive colour combo
Dream of wind in your hair motoring, engaging performance, a slick gearbox, agile handling and a sports car quick enough to put a Cheshire cat-sized grin on your face, and you’ll probably conjure up an image in your mind of some kind of exotic supercar with a price tag beyond the reach of most mere mortals.
If so, you will have overlooked this star of a contender, the ubiquitous Mazda MX-5, which has thrilled drivers of all ages for more than 35 years – and is still doing so today, with prices starting from £28,585 which I think is a proper bargain in today’s world.
The MX-5’s combination of fun and affordability has endeared itself to what are now generations of car buyers it’s why this characterful little hot shot is the world’s best-selling sports car, with around 1.5-million examples sold since it was first unveiled at the 1989 Chicago Motor Show, with 135,000 examples being sold in the UK alone.
It also has a very special place in my heart, as it was one of the cars I raced in the Britcar Championship a few years ago, along with the rotary-engined RX-8s, driving for Mazda UK alongside professional racing drivers, with the team taking numerous class wins and podiums in the Production Class of the endurance championship – testament to the car’s reliability against much more exotic competition.
Over the years, the MX-5 has evolved, but this fourth generation is still fundamentally the same delightful, beautifully balanced, little sports car it was when it first went on sale, with lively engines and lightweight bodies giving a fun-inspiring power to weight ratio, and while it’s never been the fastest sports car on the road, it’s still one of the best to drive, regardless of price tags.
This current version features the latest tweaks, with new light clusters with LED lighting, the Aero Grey paint featured on our test car, and a smattering of the latest bells and whistles inside – some of which I’d rather it didn’t have, but the latest dinging and donging safety features like speed limit recognition and lane departure warnings are appearing on all new cars, and drive you mad, but Mazda has had the good sense to make them easy to find – and turn off!
There are currently three trim levels, with two engine choices, the 132PS 1.5-litre engine, or the 184ps 2.0-litre unit in this top-of-the-range Homura specced car.
The bigger engine models still come with a front strut brace to stiffen up the chassis and Bilstein dampers, but the limited slip differential has been upgraded to enhance cornering and driveability, and I can promise you, it’s still an engaging drive!
It’s not the fastest car on the road with a 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds, but it is still one of the most fun, with a lively engine, one of the best gearboxes you’ll find in any car, and a rorty exhaust note which just encourages you to press the loud pedal, with a bit of popping and banging on the over-run!
The steering is pin sharp and unmolested by the drive train, with all the power going through the rear wheels, the MX-5 is just so beautifully balanced it’s an absolute joy to punt along your favourite country roads.The interior is compact with little storage, but you just don’t care. This model has a bigger 8.8in touch screen in the middle of the dash, comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and now has USB-C ports, and I loved the comfy Recaro seats which feature in the Homura version I drove.
If you’ve never driven an MX-5, and call yourself a petrolhead, you owe it to yourself to put that right, and if you’re not tempted to buy one, I for one, will be very surprised!
New Members
A warm welcome and introduction to the latest businesses to join Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce.
A & B Partnership Ltd
Arnie Shelley Immingham 07863 108481
Health insurance, health and wellbeing, employee assistance programme
Department for Work and Pensions – Yorkshire & Lincs Group Partnership
Anthony Lord Blackburn 07967 233465
Work and health services
Elevation Training & Development Ltd
Stephen Mohammed
Rotherham 01709 871379
Health & safety
Graham Cowan QHSE Consultancy Services Ltd
Graham Cowan
Laceby 07717 393483
Health safety and fire consultancy and training
Hull City Football Club
David North Hull 01482 358313
Football club
insight4business
Matthew McSharry Scawby 07854 336680
Business consulting
Kenwick Park Estate
Samantha Donner
Louth 01507 353003
Hospitality
Locked Future Self Storage
James Budding Hull 01482 276010
Self storage
National Grid Electricity Transmission
Stephen Knight-Gregson
Leeds 07785 928636
Electricity Transmission
Reignite Development Ltd
Nazareen Johnson Burstwick 07702 587673
Leadership development & coaching
Celebrating a decade of a creative partnership
Award-winning creative and digital marketing agency Sowden & Sowden is proud to mark 10 years of partnership with Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) – a decade of driving student recruitment through standout education marketing campaigns and cutting-edge digital strategy. Since its inception, Sowdens has supported the UTC’s journey with bold creative and a data-driven digital strategy – helping to attract thousands of students, build employer trust and position the technical college as a trailblazer in technical education.
In 2024/2025 alone, the results speak volumes:
• All open events sold out for both Y10 and Y12
• 10.6% year-on-year increase in applications
• 3,377 open event sign-ups – a 52% increase in three years
• 5,556% ROI per student.
The success of the partnership lies in a multichannel, targeted campaign strategy –
spanning paid social, PPC, Google Display, out-of-home advertising, remarketing and data capture across platforms including Instagram, Snapchat, Eventbrite and Meta.
Polly Sowden, Director at Sowden & Sowden, said: “Ron Dearing UTC is more than a client – it’s a long-standing partner with a shared belief in doing things differently. Over the past 10 years, we’ve helped craft a digital-first narrative that connects with students and families on every level, from strategic storytelling to sharp execution.
“Our campaigns have helped drive consistent growth in applications, but more importantly, they’ve played a part in supporting a college delivering real change –with over 60 Employer Partners shaping the curriculum and 80% of apprenticeships secured in priority sectors like engineering, digital and creative.
“That impact matters – to us, to the school, and to the region.”
Ron Dearing UTC has transformed the educational landscape in Hull and beyond –
Visit www.hull-humber-chamber.co.uk/ memberships
Or call Kay Bailey on (01482) 324976 or Anne Tate or Marilyn Waud on (01472) 342981
Resilience Partnership Ltd
Laura Kirk Hull 07789 866611
Company wellbeing
RS Renewables Limited
Mel Stephenson Hull 07946 313844
Specialist lifting and construction, electrical and mechanical
The Scent Reserve
Charlotte Williams Scunthorpe 07414 737048
Fragrance brand
The Concept Factory East Yorkshire Ltd
Andrew Emery Beverley 07510 129277
Product Development with IP WPA Healthcare Practice - S Harvey Services
Ltd
Sally Harvey Redbourne 07859 051686
Private medical insurance specialists
with 60% of students going on to university and 40% into apprenticeships, most of which are within industry-aligned pathways.
Sarah Pashley, Principal of Ron Dearing UTC, said: “Sowdens have been instrumental in supporting our growth over the last decade. They understand our values, our students and our ambitions – and their campaigns have consistently helped us stand out in a competitive marketplace.
“The team’s creativity, technical know-how and ability to reach the right audiences is a huge part of our ongoing success.”
Polly Sowden, Director at Sowden & Sowden, Sarah Pashley, Principal at Ron Dearing UTC, and Steve Willacy, Head of School at Ron Dearing UTC
One More Thing...
Stories from Chamber members that we don’t want you to miss!
Charity bosses in podcast hot seat
Leading law firm Wilkin Chapman Rollits has stepped up its support for the region’s charity sector by launching a series of podcasts featuring chief officers and trustees.
The firm’s specialist charity lawyers Gerry Morrison and Harriet Wheeldon kicked off the project by sitting down with Andy Barber OBE, who has worked in the sector for more than 20 years.
The podcast went live as part of the buildup to Trustees Week at the beginning of November. Andy will be followed into the hot seat by Olly Burdett a trustee with The Tigers Trust, and Lisa Dawson, Director of Run With It. Three more charity leaders will feature later in the year.
Gerry, Partner and Head of Charity at Wilkin Chapman Rollits, said the idea of hosting podcasts came from delivering training and education sessions for charities in the region.
The guest contributors have been invited to the sessions to highlight the different areas of knowledge and expertise which they bring to their organisations.
‘There are a lot of legal podcasts out there but often it tends to be just legal talk’
Gerry said: “Usually when someone becomes a trustee it’s because they bring certain expertise.
Andy is a very well-known charity chief executive. He’s also a trustee of several charities, and in the podcast, he talks to us about what makes a good and effective charity leader.
“Olly used to be an employee at the Tigers Trust so it’s interesting to see him make the transition to trustee. We spoke about that and about how he brings his marketing and comms expertise to the Board. As a young charity trustee, Olly also talks about what motivated him to take on the role.”
Incorporated in 2018, Run With It is a charity that helps children learn in inspiring, real-world environments – like football stadiums and airports – rather than traditional classrooms. Lisa Dawson leads the charity, and their aim is to broaden their horizons of children and young adults and introduce them to a wide range of career possibilities.
Gerry said: “There are a lot of legal podcasts out there but often it tends to be just legal talk. Hearing directly from charity leaders and trustees can be incredibly valuable, so we've invited some inspiring guests who have done some great work and who bring a wealth of experience to help other charity leaders.
“I have been a charity lawyer for more than 20 years and during that time I have developed some good working relationships with trustees and CEOs so I thought why not add their experience to my legal expertise? We want to put the legal advice in the context of someone from a charity who lives it all the time.”
Pictured (left to right) are Andy Barber, Gerry Morrison and Harriet Wheeldon
