Biz Network Feb 2026

THE FIRST WORD

Business Network has a manufacturing theme this month, to tie in with the East Midlands Manufacturing and Trade Conference which take place at Loughborough University on 24 March.

The Big Interview, for instance, comes out of a fascinating conversation with David Hancock, chief executive of Cooke, which makes lenses for movie cameras.

Over the decades his company's technology has been used on films such as Spartacus, The Shining and The Brutalist and TV hits including Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones. It's now investing in ways to capture new markets such as YouTube producers, Bollywood and the burgeoning Chinese film scene.

This month also sees news from precision testing equipment maker TQC Nottingham, whose managing director Mark Jones shares how much the business has been helped by the key services the Chamber offers. Hopefully, his words will inspire other business to come forward for support.

You can read about work the Manufacturing Technology Centre is doing with Loughborough University to fast track the development of clean, green hydrogen power for aircraft, automotive and power generation.

Elsewhere there's news of a businesswoman selling high-quality, soft, organic childrenswear - who wants to bring manufacturing back to Leicester - and a report on a quick-release hijab for female police officers on the frontline, which is now in production.

You can also read about how Caterpillar is at the forefront of developing AI which could one day be directing its machinery around the region’s construction sites.

There are also updates on the East Midlands Business Awards and 2026 Enterprising Women Conference, along with details of everything else the Chamber has been up to.

I hope you enjoy the read.

Tom Pegden, Editor, Business Network

Editor Tom Pegden

T: 07816 347 451

E: tom.pegden@emc-dnl.co.uk

Contributor Tim Smith

Chamber Membership

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David Hancock, chief executive of Cooke

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FEBRUARY 2026

MEMBER NEWS

4 Tickets selling fast for our Business Awards

APPOINTMENTS

26 Four new faces at PKF Smith Cooper

THE BIG INTERVIEW

28 David Hancock, chief executive of lens specialist Cooke

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

34 DMU backs plans to get women into tech

CHAMBER NEWS

36 Business leaders discuss Chamber’s new Framework for Growth

CHAMBER NETWORKS

42 Generation Next’s new chair looks to the future of the network

TRAINING & EVENTS

46 Region’s culture show returns for sixth time

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

48 Innovation powers switch to clean energy

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

50 Raft of agreements signal closer ties with EU

POLITICS

52 Chamber renews its call for business rates reform

FEATURES

54 CONSTRUCTION & REDEVELOPMENT

Why buying British is best when it comes to excavator attachments

58 FOCUS

Business Network offers an overview of the hopes for, and challenges facing, the region’s manufacturing sector

64 APPRENTICESHIPS, SKILLS & TRAINING A new solution to skills development?

66 Neuro-inclusion brings range of benefits

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

70 East Mids Tech Week will showcase region’s experts

BUSINESS SUPPORT

72 LEGAL

Law firm supports football safety app

74 FINANCE

MHA acquires Dubai-based audit practices

76 SKILLS

Chesterfield skills event is opportunity for all

78 PROPERTY

Reservoir boathouse to open this spring

80MOTORING

Nick Jones test drives Vauxhall’s Grandland Electric

THE LAST WORD

82 New Chamber president Dr Cham Kang highlights the ongoing importance of the region’s manufacturing industry

COVER PHOTO

MEMBER NEWS

THE LATEST NEWS FROM OUR CHAMBER MEMBERS

Come and join us for Business Awards nights

Tickets are selling fast for the 2025/2026 East Midlands Chamber Business Awards, which will honour the best businesses in Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire this spring.

Judging took place in January, and the three black tie awards nights will be a chance for business teams to come together and celebrate the best the region has to offer.

They are also a brilliant networking opportunity, bringing together faces from across industry, as well as potential clients and influencers in an informal setting.

The Leicestershire Awards take place at Leicester City Football Club on 26 February, and the Derbyshire Awards take place at Derby County Football Club on 26 March.

The Nottinghamshire Awards take place at Kelham Hall on 12 March.

Sarah Moore, a director at business support company Juggling Octopus, said: “Collaboration is integral to who we are at Juggling Octopus. It’s not an add-on, it’s how we work.

“Sponsoring the Derbyshire Collaboration Award was something we were genuinely proud to do, as it reflects our commitment to building strong, intentional relationships within the local business community and working alongside the Chamber to celebrate organisations that achieve more by working together.”

Keith Buet, managing director of facilities management group Vertas, said: “We’re proud headline sponsors of the Nottinghamshire Business Awards 2025/26, supporting regional excellence and

2026 SPONSORS ARE:

• Knights

Vertas

• Vaillant

• RandalSun

• Digital Planning

• Scholars School

• De Montfort University

• emh Group

• ER Recruitment

• Purpose Media

STEP

Peritus • NetMonkeys

celebrating innovation, sustainability, and people development, values that align with our mission and new joint venture in the county.”

Lewis Aldridge, a partner at Azets business advisors, said: “We work closely with owner-managed and growing businesses across Derbyshire, so sponsoring Small Business of the Year is a natural fit for us.

“Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy, driving innovation, employment and growth, and this award recognises the ambition, resilience and people behind those businesses.

“Supporting the Derbyshire Business Awards is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate local success and support the businesses shaping Derbyshire’s future.”

Tickets for all three ceremonies are available at: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/services/business-awards

• Howes Percival • Nottingham Trent University

• Vaughandale Construction

• Blueprint Interiors

• Express Recruitment

• Your IT

• Eversheds Sutherland

• DHL

• Rolls-Royce Plc

• Truly SMB

• Derby College

• University of Derby

• Mackworth Vehicle Solutions

• Howden • Chesterfield College

• Amazon

• Azets

• Juggling Octopus

• DJH • Longbow Venues

Severn Trent engineers at work

Guests enjoy the 2024 Derbyshire Business Awards

The 2024 Leicestershire Business Awards winners

City Ground to host England game

The Nottingham Forest City Ground will host England’s 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier against Iceland next month.

The record-breaking Lionesses, who have reached three consecutive major tournament finals under head coach Sarina Wiegman – winning back-to-back European Championships – will play at the ground for the first time

in 32 years on Saturday 7 March, kicking-off at 12:30pm.

England’s road to Brazil will begin against Ukraine on March 3, before playing the home qualifier against Iceland four days later. The fourth team in the group is Spain.

England head coach Sarina Wiegman said: “We are at the beginning of an important qualifying campaign.

“We want to be at our best and are really looking forward to getting started again. Iceland are a well organised, competitive side, so this will be a great test for us as we begin our journey toward the World Cup.

“We’re excited to play at Nottingham Forest. It has been a very long time since England Women have appeared there, and

it’s important for us to bring the Lionesses to different parts of the country. I know the fans, as always, will create a brilliant atmosphere for the players and give us fantastic support in this historic stadium.”

The City Ground has been included as one of the proposed stadiums in the joint bid for the Home Nations’ to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup.

Severn Trent leads the way in regional recruitment drive

Severn Trent has opened applications for 100 apprenticeships across its business.

The roles, which span from HR to water networks, engineering and electrical, are open to anyone, regardless of age or where they are in their careers, from new starters to people looking to re-skill in a new job. The water company said it marks its biggest recruitment drive for apprentices, after recruiting 97 apprentices in 2025, and 89 in 2024.

It has removed the need for applicants to have English and Maths passes for some of the apprenticeships – allowing them to add the qualifications on the job. Applications close on 16 March via the Severn Trent website.

‘Our apprenticeship schemes will offer people of any age the chance to learn new skills’

New talent lead Kellie Emery said: “Every year we open our apprenticeship applications with the ambition of bringing in some of the brightest talent from across our region. Our apprenticeship schemes will offer people of any age the chance to learn new skills while also being able to put them into practice at the same time.

“At a time when research is showing a 2% decrease in school and college leaver recruitment in the energy and engineering sector, we’re proud to be offering more opportunities in that space.”

The water company last year made a commitment to create 400 work experience placements for careexperienced young people in the Midlands and developed a programme with job centres to help people having trouble finding work.

• A new recruitment consultancy has launched in Derby to help growing organisations find, hire and retain exceptional talent.

Seasoned recruiter Dee Fletcher, who has been part of the East Midlands business scene for almost two decades, has launched Precept Recruit as a sister company to employment law and HR specialists Precept. Both firms are backed by the Baron McCann group and operate from the organisation’s headquarters in the Meteor Centre, in Derby.

Dee has held positions with Adecco, Reed and Key Personnel and co-founded Response Network Solutions. More recently she built the HR and marketing divisions at Cherry Professional.

She said: “We’ve launched Precept Recruit to support businesses and help them attract the best people for their needs – especially at a time when finding talent is one of the biggest challenges facing growing businesses. Our goal is to combine genuine local insight with the professionalism and reach of a national consultancy.”

Precept HR director and co-owner Rob Tice and recruitment director Dee Fletcher

Business Club looks to the stars

Nottingham City Business Club (NCBC) has officially announced baby loss support charity and King’s Award winner Forever Stars as its charity partner for 2026.

The Nottingham-based charity is dedicated to supporting bereaved families and raising awareness of baby loss, and was awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service last November.

‘Those connections help our charity partners long after a fundraising year ends’

NCBC president Craig Pearson –who is head of sales and marketing at Chamber patron Your IT Department – said: “Myself and the club’s council are pleased to be supporting Forever Stars. They stood out in a seriously strong field.

“After a tough application process and a final six that all brought something meaningful to the table, our members chose a charity that gives families space, dignity and real support at the worst moment imaginable.

“Over the next 12 months we’ll fundraise, of course, but the real

baby loss and the support available in the city.

“We’re really looking forward to working with the NCBC council and the membership over the next twelve months.”

NCBC was established in 1924 and hosts monthly networking lunches with guest speakers covering a range of topics and subjects.

It selects a charity to support each year, raising money through donations at monthly lunches, events and its annual charity golf day.

NCBC has also announced partnerships with Nottingham’s National Ice Centre and Motorpoint Arena throughout 2026.

value comes from bringing Forever Stars into our lunches, our network, and our conversations.

“Those connections help our charity partners long after a fundraising year ends.”

Charity co-founder and chair

Richard Daniels said: “Everyone at Forever Stars was delighted to hear that we have been voted as the NCBC Charity of the Year.

“This is a real honour for the charity and will really help raise much needed awareness about

Ice centre and arena chief executive Martin Ingham said: “Over the past two years we have developed a great relationship with NCBC and its membership and guests and are proud to have assisted in growing attendances through our high-quality offering.

“We are delighted to continue to partner with NCBC and welcome Nottingham’s business community through our doors for their excellent events and, of course, the legendary Christmas lunch again in 2026.”

A regional tourist attraction has launched a new development offering luxury apartments and commercial space.

Mercia Marina, in Willington, Derbyshire, has launched the new scheme called The Promenade, which management hope will bolster the 800,000 visitors it attracts each year. The former fishing lake has been transformed into a visitor, leisure, holiday, residential and shopping destination in the heart of the East Midlands.

Today it is home to around 18 independent businesses, including two restaurants, three cafés, an art gallery, jeweller, beauty salon and boutiques selling homewares, giftware and ladies’ fashion.

A site spokesman said: “With a

cosmopolitan waterside feel and the charm of a seaside village, visitors can stroll among independent shops, explore public art and sculptures, embark on circular wildlife walks, take boat trips on the Trent and Mersey Canal, or enjoy coffee and cake right by the water.

“Many extend their stay in luxury holiday lodges on the marina’s beautiful 77-acre grounds, joining the 500 residents of the marina.

“The next phase in the marina’s evolution is the Promenade – a striking new building that brings a unique aesthetic and new commercial opportunities to this established destination.”

East Midlands marina adds luxury apartments Monthly webinars will offer business advice

The Promenade will include two storeys of luxury apartments, ground floor shops and a new restaurant.

Michele and Richard Daniels created Nottingham baby loss charity Forever Stars in 2014

The Promenade at Mercia Marina

Charities given chance to join Chamber for less

The Chamber has launched an initiative to give fully subsidised community membership to charities, schools and community interest companies (CISs).

The new offer has been created to ensure the Chamber team can make it as easy as possible to support local charities and similar, to help them make a difference.

In order to be eligible community membership organisations must:

• Have a locally registered charity number with the Charity Commission or be CIC registered with Companies House

• Have their main base in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire or Leicestershire

• Have an annual income below £1m (CICs and bigger organisations will be considered on a case-by-case basis)

• Have a primary activity that directly benefits the community, rather than shareholders or private owners

• Have fewer than 50 team members – paid and unpaid.

The scheme is also open to statefunded primary and secondary schools based within the East Midlands. Existing Chamber members will be eligible at renewal.

There are a handful of services that community members cannot benefit from, although they can choose to enhance their package by paying for optional services –essentially becoming full standard members.

Those services include business support from Quest; international discounts; access to the member

Jade Brindley

‘It’s a simple idea that will make a big difference’

database; and dedicated account manager meetings.

East Midlands Chamber head of membership Jade Brindley, said:

“For many charities and community groups, every penny counts.

“Having their Chamber membership subsidised means they can access support, build connections and amplify their impact without stretching already tight budgets. It’s a simple idea that will make a big difference.

“Opening the door to schools, charities and CISs in this way shows a genuine commitment to strengthening our communities. It helps the people doing incredible grassroots work feel part of the wider business network, and that sense of belonging can be transformative.”

To find out more visit: https://is.gd/eT4qRX

Logistics business scoops national award

A freight forwarding business based near Chesterfield was named a winner at the SME National Business Awards.

Kranlee Logistics was named Business of the Year with Less Than 50 People.

Kranlee offers export support for clients across the UK, helping them ship anything and everything to the four corners of the world.

Co-founder Karen Mosley said: “Winning National Business of the Year in London is an incredible honour and a moment we’ll never forget.

“This award isn’t just a trophy – it’s a testament to the hard work, heart, and resilience of the entire Kranlee team.

“After securing several regional awards over the past year, standing on a national stage felt surreal and deeply rewarding.”

Training boost for youngster with SEN

An autistic teenager who was excluded from school for a period has flourished at work thanks to a partnership between Derby City Council’s skills and support hub Transition2 and L.E.A.D. IT Services.

Shae Ormond, 19, has shone since starting a weekly work placement at L.E.A.D. IT Services, a social enterprise that helps more than 250 schools, academy trusts and businesses across the UK.

Transition 2 works with 18-25-year-olds with special educational needs to prepare them for adulthood through tailored vocational programmes.

The partnership has seen Shae travelling to Pride Park-based L.E.A.D. IT each week, working under the guidance of technician Jamie Quinn.

Shae even attends on his day off and now no longer needs the support of his key worker Debbie Jones – travelling there independently on two buses.

‘I’ve loved seeing his development and growth, and how he has created a rapport with everyone in the office’

He said: “I was sad when I was out of school and thought – “what else am I going to do?” Now I’ve got my purpose back.

“Honestly, I thought I was going to last for one day. But when Debbie told me that Jamie wanted me to come back because I’d made a good impression, I thought “this is a real opportunity”.

“L.E.A.D. IT Services is so supportive. Jamie is so caring, he really helps me out in building up my skills.

“They’re a good company – fantastic people.”

Jamie said the whole team at L.E.A.D. IT Services enjoyed having Shae in the office each week, where he has been growing in confidence and getting involved with administrative tasks vital to keep a workplace running smoothly.

He said: “I’ve loved being Shae’s mentor. I’ve loved seeing his development and growth, and how he has created a rapport with everyone in the office. It’s been good to see him expand in confidence; it’s getting to that point where he just cracks on with it.”

L.E.A.D. IT Services has worked with Transition2 for more than 10 years, providing technical support including helping the organisation move into its new base in Friargate Studios and creating a new website.

Shae Ormond with Jamie Quinn at L.E.A.D. IT Services

Next ties up deal to buy shoe chain

Leicestershire high street giant Next has bought shoe chain Russell and Bromley out of administration in a £2.5m rescue deal.

Next has acquired the upmarket brand and three of its 36 stores – in Chelsea, Mayfair and the Bluewater Shopping Centre – and is paying an additional £1.3m for some of its existing stock.

The remaining 33 stores and all nine concessions which are not included in the transaction will remain open and continue to trade while the joint administrators look at the options.

Russell & Bromley chief executive Andrew Bromley said: “Following a strategic review with external advisers, we have taken the difficult decision to sell the Russell & Bromley brand.

“This is the best route to secure the future for the brand, and we would like to thank our staff, suppliers, partners and customers

for their support throughout our history.”

Over the past few years Next has acquired controlling or partial stakes in a number of well-known brands including Lipsy, Victoria’s Secret, Joules, Reiss, Made.com and FatFace.

The deal also comes as Next announced another set of strong trading figures, with sales up more than 10% year-on-year over the nine week build-up to Christmas.

UK sales were up 5.9% for the period while overseas sales were up 38.3%, leading the business to increase its guidance for full year pre-tax profits by £15m to £1.15bn.

The business said: “Growth in the UK slowed but not by as much as we expected.

“We believe that sales benefited from higher stock levels than last year, when supplier deliveries were delayed by disruption in Bangladesh and global freight networks.”

Community urged to help with skills plan

The Chamber wants the Leicester and Leicestershire business community to help define the 2026 to 2029 Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for the city and county.

The employer-led plan will match local skills with the demands of businesses, by bringing together employers, training providers and other partners to define skills priorities.

Notable outcomes over the first LSIP cycle included £1.5m deployed into training, facilities and curriculum development; new and strengthened provision in green technologies, digital skills, robotics, AI and leadership; and stronger governance and collaboration.

Middleton Moor to be restored and rewilded

Thanks to the generosity of supporters and a major funding grant from Biffa Award, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust has announced that the 135 acre Middleton Moor has been secured, and will be restored and rewilded for wildlife and local communities to enjoy.

Following the deal the area will become part of a wildlife corridor spanning more than 1,000 acres.

The Trust’s Middleton Moor appeal captured the hearts of

thousands, raising £182,000 in public donations in the run up to Christmas.

Alongside the funds donated by more than 2,300 passionate members and supporters, a Biffa Award grant of over £825,000 has secured the land and will support an ambitious, landscape-scale restoration project to rewild the moor, reconnect habitats, and unlock its full potential for nature’s recovery.

More than 4,000 learners and more than 260 businesses have benefited.

‘Input from businesses helps ensure training provision matches the roles employers recruit

for

today and the skills they need for tomorrow’

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “With unemployment having risen to 6% in the East Midlands, addressing the skills gap is more important than ever. Six out of 10 respondents in our last Quarterly Economic Survey said they had difficulty finding suitable staff, a figure persistent across last year.

“I’d strongly encourage businesses in Leicester and Leicestershire to take a few moments to share their thoughts on the Local Skills Improvement Plan.

“Just a few minutes could make a significant difference to how skills are approached – something that ultimately affects almost any organisation that employs people in the city and county.

“The LSIP is a superb initiative that captures what businesses need in skills, knowledge and behaviours then turns that insight into practical recommendations that help shape local provision and investment.

“Input from businesses helps ensure training provision matches the roles employers recruit for today and the skills they need for tomorrow.

“While colleges and universities have contributed to the consultation, it’s essential to hear from business. After all, the heart of the plan is about the connect between skills and business.

“We want firms to share the challenges their workforce faces, their recruitment needs and the priorities in their sector so the next LSIP reflects real business demand. That then helps guides future investment.”

You can contact the Chamber policy team at policy@emc-dnl.co.uk or register to take part in a LSIP survey at: tinyurl.com/26zehttc

The Next store in Fosse Park, Leicester

Richard Blackmore

Businesses forge ties with Chamber

More businesses have signed up to the benefits of becoming strategic partners and patrons of the Chamber.

The partnerships give businesses preferential opportunities to engage with the broader Chamber membership and share their messages, and allow them to play a bigger part in contributing to policy when Chamber management meet up with the country’s political elite.

Loughborough-based tech specialist Digital Planning has become a strategic partner which, among other things, will give it opportunities to share its digital insight at regional events.

Co-founder Mark Underwood said: “Digital Planning is really pleased to be partnering with East Midlands Chamber as we work together on the commercial R&D needed to transform productivity through original digital technologies

“Digital Planning researches, develops, and delivers secure, next generation digital solutions that lift productivity, slash waste, and free people up to focus on higher-value work. Our partnership with the Chamber is already producing a really interesting bit of IP, and it’s deepening our role as a

technology partner in complex and regulated industries aiming to confidently deploy next generation tech platforms.”

Castle Donington-based IT services supplier Truly SMB is another new strategic partner.

It is a Microsoft partner which helps small and medium sized businesses get ‘tech-fit’.

Chief executive Tim Rookes said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be partnering with East Midlands Chamber. We built Truly to help

Steve Knight-Gregson, its head of external affairs and strategic infrastructure in the north, said: “National Grid is upgrading the electricity network across the country through The Great Grid Upgrade – the biggest investment in the UK’s electricity network for generations.

SMBs cut through the noise and make tech actually work for them and teaming up with the Chamber lets us support even more brilliant businesses across the region.

“The Chamber has huge influence and heart in the East Midlands, and we’re excited to be part of that story.”

National Grid – which is embarking on what it has called “the largest overhaul of the network in a generation” – has signed up as a Chamber patron.

“Our projects will help deliver more clean, secure and affordable energy to homes, businesses and public services in East Midlands and beyond. By strengthening the network, the projects will support the UK’s shift away from imported fossil fuels, improve energy security and attract clean industries and investment in skills and local jobs.”

Mackworth Vehicle Conversions has become a strategic partner (see page 63 for more details on that) having previously been a Chamber patron.

That business carries out vehicle body conversions for fleet operators across the UK, in sectors such as utilities, construction, highways and logistics.

It has been part of the Derby business community since the 1960s and employs more than 60 people, with all manufacturing taking place at its Derby facility.

Tim Rookes

Mark Underwood

A smarter way to bring AI into your business

By Hayley Mollett, (pictured) head of marketing, Better-IT

We all know by now that AI tools like Copilot can help reduce the load, but the best results come when it’s deployed securely and used with confidence.

Work rarely becomes overwhelming because of one big task; it’s the small repetitive admin tasks that build up across the day. We can see this every day in our teams:

• The team member who spends 20 minutes rewriting to perfect an email

• Your account manager who hasn’t uploaded their meeting notes as they are too busy and their manager searching for an update

• What about your finance report that feels too heavy to start? So you wait months, not weeks, for your next business finance review.

AI can lighten that load. It creates, researches, summarises and analyses so people can focus on the parts of their job that matter. Imagine giving every employee a personal assistant for the cost of two coffees a month. That’s the power of Copilot; it streamlines tasks, saves time, and boosts productivity. A small price for a big impact.

You can only get these great results when the foundations are ready: secured data, the right Microsoft 365 setup and a team that feels confident using it.

To explore Copilot with clarity and confidence, Better-IT are offering AI adoption programs for you and your team. The aim of the programs is to make AI useful, safe and measurable. They’re designed for SMEs who want to use Copilot properly, whether you’re just starting your AI journey or you’ve already got licences and want to see real value from them.

www.services.better-it.uk/copilot-readiness-program

Taxi firm going hire and hire!

Management at Albatross Cars say the business has seen steady growth across locations including Belper, Castle Donington, Derby and Nottingham, on the back of demand for everyday transport and higher level services such as executive travel, minibuses and coaches.

The company is said to have

strengthened its presence in key areas, supporting more customers in Belper and Castle Donington while expanding its reach into Nottingham through hotel and corporate partnerships, including with Novotel Nottingham. They said the company continued to grow its corporate work, with new partnerships forming across different sectors

including hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, professional services and community organisations.

One key area of growth has been the chauffeuring service, which is designed for executives and highend travellers looking for a more personalised and premium experience.

That includes airport transfers,

business travel, event transport and private journeys in executive vehicles with a focus on comfort, privacy and reliability.

Technology remains a central focus, with upgrades to the Albatross app, improved account onboarding, taxi kiosks for hotels and new internal systems that help maintain service quality as customer volumes increase

Electrics experts still current after 35 years

Training can be key to managing conflict

Founded in Dec 2024, Training for Reality is a training company that provides specialist face-to-face scenario-based conflict management, enhanced leadership and people management training, as well as other specialist services.

A Leicester company has completed its 35th year of supplying and repairing electric server motors to UK businesses.

Family-owned Alpha Electrics, which has grown year-on-year and employs 14 people, specialises in electric motors used in the aerospace, automotive, precision engineering and food sectors. It services around three thousand every year.

Sales director Rajesh Patel said: “We’re really proud of what we’ve achieved particularly in recent years, which has been a challenging time for everyone, especially small businesses.

“We have helped thousands of businesses including blue chip companies in a range of industries, such as aerospace, packaging and food with a strong customer base in the Midlands and across the UK.

“As well as our core business of repair, maintenance and service of industrial electric motors and drives, we are expanding our service into facilities management focusing on London and the south east.

“By continuing to diversify, I’m confident we can keep growing the business with its success being enjoyed by future generations of our family continuing to deliver for our customers.”

Having spent 33 years in the military, the police and national security roles, as well as being the former UK head of the Counter Terrorism Professional Development Unit, I use my skills and experiences to deliver training which gives people real influence, real skills and real confidence, that works in the real world – hence the company name.

leaders in crisis resilience, decisionmaking, and conflict management.

The training falls into these main categories: specialist conflict management and staff safety courses; enhanced leadership and management courses; and enhanced self-awareness.

Training for Reality’s sweet spot is organisations with frontline or people-facing staff, who want to keep their staff and customers safe, or who are legally obligated to provide safety and conflict training, as well as corporates and public sector teams, who want to upskill

Apart from the expected new-tomarket brand awareness challenge, there are two main challenges. The first is convincing businesses that the skills I teach are critically important and transformational. The second is that online training has become the go-to methodology for lots of businesses, which are missing a wonderful opportunity to develop their staff properly, by giving them that genuine learning and discussion time, where they feel their future is really being invested in, where they can speak openly about their fears, and what's holding them back or keeping them awake at night.

I’ve been overcoming those challenges through advocacy, testimonials, and industry specific marketing campaigns on LinkedIn, by upskilling myself via the excellent Chamber courses and because of the connections and introductions I’m gaining through the East Midlands Chamber networking.

I’m offering chamber members a 10% discount on all training throughout 2026.

Garth Stinson (pictured) is the founder and director of Training for Reality, in Newark.

Rajesh Patel

Make a real difference by using your skillset

Dan Ebanks (pictured) is the founder of Match My Project, a platform that connects businesses with community organisations and residents to deliver social impact in local communities. Here he explains how Match My Project is helping business deliver local impact and better returns.

For many businesses across the East Midlands, the concept of social value isn’t new. They know the benefits it brings: a happier workforce and a better bottom line.

For many businesses, the challenge isn’t a lack of belief in social value or will to do something – it’s the lack of connection.

This is where Match My Project steps in, serving as a digital bridge between our region’s ambitious business community and the needs of local charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises.

The power of this platform is best illustrated by what it helped deliver in 2025. In the last year alone, the Match My Project ecosystem has facilitated an extraordinary level of engagement:

• Almost 2,000 community organisations active on the platform

• More than 1,900 suppliers engaged in dedicated social value activity

• 646 community projects successfully delivered

• Businesses contributed approximately 9,910 hours of volunteer time, unlocking an estimated £761,000 in funding and in-kind support.

These aren’t just “neat numbers”; they represent 1,600 unique connections where a business met a specific, verified local need.

Match My Project functions as a community-driven network. Local organisations post “projects” that need support – ranging from professional mentoring and volunteering time to equipment and other resources.

Match My Project then shows businesses relevant community projects based on their location, the resources they have to share, and

‘A digital bridge between our region’s ambitious business community and the needs of local charities’

the outcomes they have to deliver.

For East Midlands Chamber members, this shift away from “scattergun” philanthropy toward strategic community investment is vital. Whether you’re a small consultancy offering an hour of pro-bono advice or a large contractor with a team ready for a community build, Match My Project ensures your contribution is highpriority and high-impact.

The strength of the regional economy is inextricably linked to the health of our local society.

When businesses engage through

Match My Project, they aren’t just “doing good” – they are building a more resilient workforce and enhancing their brand reputation.

Furthermore, as public sector procurement increasingly demands evidence of social value, Match My Project provides a transparent, verifiable trail. It turns intangible goodwill into tangible data.

The East Midlands has always been a hub of industriousness and community spirit. When EMCCA and its partner councils invested in Match My Project, they preserved that spirit by enabling business success to directly translate into thriving neighbourhoods.

Let’s stop guessing what our communities need and start matching our expertise and resources to their ambitions.

Get in touch at hello@matchmyproject.org

Are you paying too much for telecoms?

Dave Millett (pictured), of DRF Consultants, shares his advice on how businesses can reduce their telecoms bills.

In these times of increasing cost pressures, it is amazing that 80% of businesses have not done a detailed check on one of their top five expenses in the past two years. We are of course talking about telecoms. So what opportunities exist for businesses to consider?

PAYING FOR SERVICES NO LONGER REQUIRED

Very few organisations are good at managing telecom assets and ceasing services as things change. Unfortunately, many providers will not offer up such advice as it reduces their revenues. Recent examples we have seen include a hotel paying for 20 analogue lines after their provider moved services to the internet. Or the London estate agent still paying for services for home

‘It is amazing how many times bills do not match what is in the contract’

broadband and mobile for staff that had left three years prior and sites that had been shut two years earlier.

Companies also frequently pay for more than they actually need – one example being mobile data. A recruitment company bought unlimited data or 20Gb monthly data packages for all their staff when in fact 85% were not even using 2Gb. By reshaping the bundles, they reduced their mobile bill by 45%.

INACCURATE BILLS

It is amazing how many times bills do not match what is in the contract, either because suppliers have changed prices or services have been added without agreement. Hundreds of pounds a month can be added in this way.

ARE YOU GETTING THE BEST PRICE?

As brokers we regularly help our customers get prices significantly below the standard market price. We also know what services should cost so can stop our clients being ripped off. Because we are not limited to one supplier, we can seek out the best at any location.

For example, a large academy with 40 sites was using just two companies for all the lease

lines. We showed that because of the way the industry charges for such services, using the best two out of three suppliers at each site would save a quarter of a million pounds a year, and using the best two out of four would save £1m a year.

USING TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

A property management company that introduced video calling from their tenants as an overlay to its existing solution was able to solve tenant problems remotely and reduced the number of technicians visits by 40%. A car retail company that linked its phone system to photographs of cars on their website saw sales grow by 10%.

SUMMARY

Telecoms is a complex purchase for businesses –especially when you factor in the obsolescence of analogue lines (scheduled for early 2027). This is all set against a background of dirty tricks that exist in the industry. These have been highlighted by investigations by the BBC in several TV programmes, on which DRF Consultants acted as an advisor.

If you like to talk to us, we are totally independent and the worst outcome is that we will tell you that what you have is fine. Please contact us on 01629 701315.

Visit: www.drf.uk.com

Dave Millett runs DRF Consultants, a Matlock-based telecoms broker and consultancy Company. With over 45 years’ experience in the industry, he has helped many companies find significant savings in their telecoms costs through their free brokerage service and performance-based audits.

Vertas celebrates royal accolade

The spotlight shone on Vertas Group’s headquarters as the company was formally presented with the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in the category of Sustainable Development.

The business was the only facilities management company in the UK to receive an accolade in 2025, and it was presented by Lady Clare, Countess of Euston, the Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk.

‘Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our colleagues’

The presentation featured a showcase of Vertas Group innovation, including demonstrations of technology such as robotics and virtual reality.

The recognition celebrated Vertas Group’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Over the past three years, the company has delivered transformative results, including:

• Achieving a 22% carbon reduction in 2023/24, and a further 15.3% reduction last year.

• Operating a chemical-free cleaning service, revolutionising industry standards with an environmentally friendly, waterbased solution.

• Saving four million single-use plastics through a sustainable procurement policy.

• Diverting 99% of waste away from landfill and prioritising reuse through donations, and maximising recycling.

• Completing more than 130 decarbonisation projects in three years, as well as net zero school designs, with Suffolk’s first net zero school now in construction.

• Delivering more than 4,000 meat-free school meals per week since 2015.

Group chief executive Ian Surtees MBA, FIoD said: “Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is a testament to the hard work and

dedication of our colleagues. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a greener future and inspires us to continue leading the way in sustainable facilities management.”

The King’s Award for Enterprise, established in 1965, is valid for five years and allows recipients to display the King’s Award emblem on communications and marketing materials.

Care and support never goes unrewarded

Dr Elizabeth Rozario (pictured) is a former GP and founder of The Caregiving Journey CIC, helping businesses and individuals handle the emotional reality of care, responsibility and difficult conversations. Here she considers caring and the modern workplace.

Many people quietly support others outside their working day – ageing parents, ill partners, adult children with variable needs, or neighbours whose needs are increasing.

Most try to keep this separate from work, but caring does not stay neatly at home. Despite their determination, it still encroaches into their working lives.

Caring involves responsibility, worry, planning and emotional strain. It affects how people think, how they respond under pressure, and how much mental space they have for decisionmaking. This impact often goes unspoken, but it is felt inside teams every day.

Smaller organisations rely heavily on a few capable individuals. When those people are managing complex situations outside work, the effects often show up as presenteeism rather than absence – people are at work, but thinking less clearly, reacting badly and losing resilience.

Many workplace responses do not fully meet

this reality. Wellbeing initiatives often focus on individuals coping better or on one-off interventions that do not address sustained pressure. Employees can be reluctant to disclose caring responsibilities formally, while managers sense something is wrong but feel unsure how to respond.

This leaves a gap between what people are managing in their lives and what workplaces acknowledge.

I am a former GP and work with businesses and individuals around the emotional reality of care, responsibility and difficult conversations. I see how caring pressures affect people long before a crisis appears, and how much difference it makes when support is practical, human and structured.

The aim is not to turn managers into carers, but to recognise reality and respond sensibly. Caring may sit outside the job description, but its impact does not.

From left: Duncan Johnson of Vertas Group, Lady Clare, Countess of Euston, His Majesty’s LordLieutenant of Suffolk, and Vertas Group CEO Ian Surtees MBA

Derbyshire charity earns King’s Award

ADerbyshire charity that helps families facing uncertain futures to make memories has won the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Melbourne-based me&dee, set up by Maria Hanson MBE, was nominated in recognition of its outstanding voluntary community service over the last 19 years.

The award is the highest honour a voluntary group can receive in the UK, and is considered equivalent to an MBE. Last year, across Derbyshire, only five organisations achieved this status.

Founder and unpaid chief executive Maria Hanson said she was “overwhelmed and overjoyed” that her charity, which is run mostly by volunteers, had been recognised by King Charles.

Maria, 71, said: “It is more than I could ever have imagined when I set up me&dee all those years ago.

“My focus has always been to help and support as many families as I can and that is why we still do what we do.

“me&dee is volunteer led –from its CEO to its trustees, and is based in a tiny office with a small team of just four.

“Without our wonderful volunteers who literally roll up

their sleeves to help support our families, we would not be who we are today.

“Our volunteers are compassionate, have huge hearts and a great deal of empathy. They want to make a difference and I am extremely proud of every one of them.”

Maria is affectionately known as Derby’s Fairy Godmother because of the continuing support she gives families facing challenging times. Despite battling her own disabilities, she works tirelessly to sprinkle joy into people’s lives with her continuing care programme which has been designed to work hand in-hand with families.

Since the start, its vision has always been simple – to make sure that no family facing the most difficult times copes on their own.

The charity helps families where a potentially life-limiting, and often rare illness is diagnosed, by providing everything from group swimming sessions, outings for families, support for siblings through craft sessions and a specialist bereavement support group. Since the start, me&dee has supported 9,000 families.

It also provides round-the-clock phone support.

Partnerships that power purpose – and performance

Across the East Midlands, businesses are rethinking what success looks like. It’s not only about turnover; it’s about the value created for people and place. The SocialFuse Network brings companies, creatives and community organisations together to accelerate collaboration and deliver measurable social value.

In a changing economy, competitive advantage is increasingly built through partnership. When businesses connect with charities, social enterprises, creative professionals and public sector teams, ideas move faster, resources go further and outcomes are better for everyone.

That’s the principle behind SocialFuse – a hybrid (in person and digital) network developed by Kakou to help organisations collaborate with purpose. From themed meet ups and online discussions to practical workshops and match making, SocialFuse makes it easier to find partners, co design projects and demonstrate social value.

WHY IT MATTERS:

• Stronger bids and tenders: Collaboration can unlock new capabilities, making it easier to meet social value criteria and local procurement goals.

• Skills in, barriers down: Cross sector teams share knowledge quickly, building confidence and reducing duplication.

• Local impact: Working with regional partners keeps value in our communities – supporting jobs, wellbeing and a fairer economy.

Members use SocialFuse to…

• Build CSR/ESG programmes that fit capacity and budget

• Co create products, services and events with real users

• Share data and insight to evidence outcomes

• Discover funding and joint venture opportunities.

The network is designed for action, not just conversation. Every session ends with next steps,

responsibilities and simple measures of success. Over time, that focus turns good intentions into credible results you can point to in board papers, bids, or annual reports.

SPOTLIGHT:

BIZ BUZZ – FAST, FACILITATED COLLABORATION

Biz Buzz is SocialFuse’s quick fire, high energy session format designed for busy teams.

• What it is: A 60-75 minute, facilitated workshop where participants surface challenges, map assets and leave with twothree actionable partnership ideas.

• Who it’s for: SMEs, corporates, VCSE leaders and creative professionals who want practical collaboration – not a stack of business cards.

• How it works: Short pitches, curated small group breakouts, live idea capture, clear next steps and follow up.

• Why it works: It blends speed networking with structured problem solving and a social value lens.

Next Biz Buzz: March 2026 – speed networking between corporates and third sector organisations (facilitated). Join us to make high quality matches and agree next steps on the spot.

BRING A CHALLENGE; LEAVE WITH PARTNERS.

Join the SocialFuse Network and turn partnership into measurable social value. Book a Biz Buzz session for your team or register for the next open event.

Visit: www.socialfuse.org.uk

Email: hello@socialfuse.org.uk

From left: Mark Harrison, Maria Hanson MBE, Samantha O’Neill, Toni Hibbert, Charlotte Harrison-Wear and Anita Marbrow ADVERTISEMENT

Marketing agency backs horse welfare initiative

Nottingham digital marketing agency Diversity has helped support an initiative called The Science Behind a Happy Horse, which won the public vote at the 2025 Knowledge Exchange Awards.

The business has 25 staff and works with clients including VELUX, WD-40, the NHS, 3-IN-ONE, Bridgestone, General Dynamics and NHBC. It has a particular specialism in customer experience and behavioural science.

The national award celebrates collaborations that bridge the gap between academic research and realworld impact.

‘The project gives students the opportunity to co-create videos, infographics and

online content’

In partnership with Nottingham Trent University and British Horse Society, the project gives students the opportunity to co-create videos, infographics and online content that supports global horse welfare.

Diversity supported students with mentoring, guiding them in how to turn scientific advice into accessible and engaging resources.

With over 100,000 views globally, the resources have helped horse owners, while the students involved reported improved grades, stronger professional identity and increased confidence.

Estate welcomes snowdrop walkers

The grounds of Hopton Hall in the Derbyshire Dales are open for visitors for its annual Snowdrop Walk.

This 20-year-old Derbyshire tradition, which can be enjoyed every day during February, typically attracts more than 5,000 visitors, who can also use the Hall’s new café.

The walk marks the first month of the estate’s annual opening, with the second in July when visitors will be invited to participate in a Month of Art competition and take in the sights and scents of the Walled Garden which is home to a one-acre rose garden.

This year, visitors will also get to see local artists in residence in the new café, while there will be ongoing art celebrations.

University helps put networking on a plate

A University of Leicester initiative launched two years ago has helped more than 300 businesses, social enterprises and charities to connect, learn, innovate and grow.

The B.I.G Networking Breakfast is underpinned by the university’s drive to provide welcoming and impactful support to the community and is delivered in collaboration with HSBC’s SME Business Banking East Midlands team and Sales Geek Midlands.

The university provides the venue and helps with education and skills, HSBC pays for the catering and provides financial and business support, while Sales Geek

University of Leicester

leads on activities and provides training and consultancy around sales and marketing.

Each two-and-a-half-hour event allows for a combination of networking, business-themed activities, structured table-based interactions, guest speakers and updates on business support opportunities from the University, HSBC and Sales Geek.

Events that have grown out of the collaboration will include a panel discussion and presentations from female leaders across business, academia and the charity sector to mark International Women’s Day.

NEW MEMBERS

52 businesses and organisations joined the Chamber in November and December:

• WG Pollard

• Peak Ales

• Read Easy Derby & District

• Route4 Logistics

• Sir Richard Arkwright's Masson Mills

• Vistaara Financial Solutions

• TPI Aerospace

• The Caregiving Journey CIC

• Tapas Madrid

• Solvexa Green Energy

• AviPro

• Cargo Overseas Ltd

• Footprints Conductive Education Centre (pictured)

• Hardy Signs

• A Force of Nature CIC

• Advanced Textile Solutions

• APLUS Medical Services & Training

• Healthwest UK

• Heathrow Airport

• Inspirations Leicestershire

• John Jenkins Photography

• LEBC

• Makeney Hall Hotel

• Headway Nottingham

• Match My Project

• Moat Community College

• Mobifon Communications

• New Dawn New Day

• Novotel Nottingham Derby –Fairview Hotels

• Oakland Village • +kin

• Action for Construction

• Age UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire

• Alphagen Energy

• D&M Property Group

• Duragreen Lighting UK

• Edwards & Edwards Consultancy

• First Step Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland

• Frank eXchange

• Green Knight Sustainability Consulting

• Leicestershire and Rutland Blood Bikes

• Luna Movements CIC

• Our Crafty Place CIC

• Plug & Play Sales

• Pride Property Care

• Richard Lang & Son

• S.H.E UK (Supporting, Healing, Education)

• Shoe Aid

• STEMAZINGKIDS CIC

• The Living Recovery Foundation

• The Pierce Perspective

• World Products

2025 Knowledge Exchange Awards winners, from left: Emmeline Hannelly (British Horse Society), Si Elliott (Diversity) and Kelly Yarnell (Nottingham Trent University)

Chamber AGM looks back as well as ahead

The Chamber AGM – titled ‘A Year in Review’ – took place at the National Space Centre in Leicester and included the announcement of Mark Deakin as Chamber vice-president, Eileen Perry MBE DL as vice-chair and Preethi Kang as incoming chair of the Generation Next network for young professionals.

Outgoing president Dawn Whitemore reflected on her year in the post before handing over the chains of office to Dr Cham Kang.

Richard Cohen of Pennine Healthcare, Stephen Grubb of NatWest, Tom Morgan of trentbarton and Becky Rix of Roadgas were elected to the board, while Emma Baumback of Amber River was re-elected.

The new president outlined his mission to ‘motivate confidence, inspire action and enable ambition across all East Midlands communities’.

Treetops Hospice Care, Headway Nottingham and Voluntary Action Leicestershire were announced as Dr Kang’s chosen charities during his presidency.

King’s Awards for Enterprise recipients and Chamber members David Hook of Cosy Direct, Angela Orton of Structural Adhesives, Emily Smith and Sean Smith of Michael Smith Switchgear and Nick Megson of Abacus Flooring Solutions shared their journey with attendees.

Dr Kang said: “The East Midlands has got a lot of history. We’ve got brilliant businesses, and we are a fantastic region for all aspects of

business and a strong community.

“I think the one thing we need is confidence. It’s been a couple of difficult years, particularly last year, and I think we need to build momentum by talking each other up, helping each other to support each other. Let’s build that confidence, let’s build that selfbelief, let’s evolve, let’s collaborate – so we can all grow together, and our region grows as a result.”

New vice-chair Eileen Perry MBE DL said: “As a born-and-bred East Midlander and longstanding Chamber member, I’m always inspired by the innovation, energy and resilience of our businesses.

“Our firms consistently rise to challenges and make incredible things happen, even amid tough headwinds.

“The Chamber has been a key part of my own journey, and I hope my insight and collaborative approach help make 2026 a year of real growth.”

Lunch celebrates year

of resilience

Business leaders reflected on 2025 and looked ahead to 2026 at the Chamber’s Cheers to the Year’ celebration, which took place at Leicester’s Grand Hotel.

Summing up the mood, Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “2025 was a tough year for business with high costs and strong headwinds to navigate.

“But the shared insight you get at high profile Chamber events where members can network, build connections and reflect on all aspects of the year, celebrate resilience and innovation, is a good starting point as we head toward 2026.”

Jenny Colver, partner in employment law at Knights, the drinks sponsor for the event, said: “We’re really excited to be working with the Chamber. We think it will be a valuable relationship for us and for the Chamber and are looking forward to continuing and developing that relationship next year.”

‘There are so many good people with so many good ideas but the head winds they face are colossal’

John McCay works in business development for mechanical and electrical engineers and net zero specialist Veridis.

He said: “As predicted, the last year has been one in which there has been no fat for many businesses.

“The key challenge has been to make sure we continue to keep raising the quality of our services and their value and to have enough projects to see us growing.

“We are confident that with the Chamber’s help we can position ourselves as an enabler of top level solutions for businesses.

“We see our relationship with the Chamber as a three, four or five year plan, the impact of which will be creating jobs and new projects.”

Scott Charlish, wealth manager RBC Brewin Dolphin said: “With the new Government in place I had hoped there would be a clear runway of policy designed for growth at both local and national level.

“This seems to be out of reach for the time being and I would hope 2026 provides focus on the positive and essential upticks we all need. There are so many good people with so many good ideas but the head winds they face are colossal.”

Gareth Henfrey from Ace Cleaning Company, said: “2025 was a rocky year with plenty of ups and downs but I think 2026 is going to be a busy year with lots of opportunities for the East Midlands.”

Guests enjoy the Chamber’s Cheers to the Year 2025 Christmas Lunch, which was held at the Grand Hotel in Leicester

Dr Cham Kang

Preethi Kang and Scarlett Canavan at the 2025 AGM

APPOINTMENTS

THE LATEST CAREER UPDATES AS COLLEAGUES MOVE UP OR MOVE ON

AUCTIONEER ADDS MARKETING HEAD

National auctioneer John Pye & Sons has appointed Joe Macaulay-Yeoman (pictured) as head of marketing to build the brand, enhance customer experience and help the business grow.

Joe, a technology and datadriven marketing expert, joins the Nottingham-headquartered business after a career working for brands such as Pepsi, Walkers, Tropicana and Global Media & Entertainment Group – the radio giant behind Capital, Heart, RadioX, Smooth, LBC, Gold, and ClassicFm.

His most recent role was as marketing and insights director for Northern Europe for Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein.

NEW DIRECTOR FOR ENGINEERING FIRM

Leicestershire’s Tyron Runflat has appointed Dr Stuart Turner (pictured) to the team as a director.

Stuart has a background in design and materials science engineering, joining the Tyron team at a time of product innovation.

He said: “I’ve always had a real passion for material science and engineering, so Tyron felt like a natural fit for me.

“The defence industry is a new sector for me, so with fresh eyes, I want to take a look at our customer demographics to ensure we’re reaching the right people.”

L- R: Francesca

FOUR NEW FACES JOIN TEAM REGARDED AS ‘THE BACKBONE’

PKF Smith Cooper has welcomed four new members to its central team after launching a number of new roles.

Tara Adams has rejoined the firm as digital transformation project lead having worked in the finance team of an IT company. Tara originally joined PKF Smith Cooper as an apprentice, and progressed up to manager. Her new role will act as a bridge between IT and the firm’s service lines, supporting the adoption of new systems across the firm.

Francesca McKernan has also joined the central team as business development coordinator, who will work closely with senior management to identify growth

opportunities. She began her career at a PR agency before moving in-house to a residential surveying firm. Francesca specialises in event and stakeholder management, selling propositions, marketing and public relations.

Along with them, Zoe Cooper has joined as people manager and Grace Downing as assistant digital marketing manager.

Operations partner Selma Delic said: “This team is the backbone of our business, and these new appointments demonstrate our commitment to investing in the people and processes that enable our team members, clients, and the wider firm to thrive.”

SOLICITOR PROMOTED TO BOARD ROLE

Banner Jones Solicitors has promoted longstanding team member Jason Burnett to director, recognising his contribution to the firm and his work leading its care department.

Jason joined in 2022 and will now take a strategic role in the expansion of the care department across north Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and south Yorkshire.

Since becoming a solicitor in 2008, he has dedicated his career to protecting the interests of children and families. He has Children Law Accreditation from the Solicitors Regulation Authority, is a member of the Law Society’s Accredited Children Panel and has been recognised as a recommended lawyer in the UK Legal 500 for both 2024 and 2025.

Banner Jones’ care team, also noted in the Legal 500, represents children in care proceedings, as well as parents, grandparents and extended family members involved in public law matters.

achieving the best possible outcomes for

and

Banner Jones chief executive Simon Wright said: “His passion for

children

families is evident in all he does, and we are delighted to see him take this next step in his career with Banner Jones.”

McKernan, Zoe Cooper, Grace Downing and Tara Adams

L-R: Banner Jones Solicitors directors Katie Ash, Jayne Henshaw, Jason Burnett and Simon Wright

FOOD CHARITY APPOINTS PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

FareShare Midlands, the region’s biggest food redistribution charity, has welcomed a new corporate partnerships manager as it sets out on an ambitious three-year plan to double the food it redistributes and feed thousands more families.

Pauline Clarke has joined from St Basils and has extensive experience in B2B sales, account management and partnerships. She will play a pivotal role in building the long-term relationships needed to drive growth.

Corporate partnerships are crucial to FareShare Midlands’ work, helping meet soaring demand for food support while tackling food waste on an unprecedented scale.

For organisations looking to deliver their ESG goals and give back locally, partnering with the charity offers real impact for relatively small investments of time or money.

FareShare Midlands chief executive Simone Connolly said: "Over 1 million children in the Midlands will go to school on an empty stomach day in and day out.

“At the same time, food waste in the UK is the equivalent to over 10 million meals per annum.

“The need for FareShare Midlands will continue to be great while these two problems exist.

“Pauline and the fundraising team are poised and ready to hear from you - there are so many ways your organisation can support.”

FAMILY LAWYER BECOMES PARTNER AT GELDARDS

Geldards has promoted East Midlands family lawyer Kate Keenan to partner. Kate specialises in financial matters arising from relationship breakdowns, working with mid-to-high net worth clients, many with significant business interests.

She also works on complex children cases, and is a proponent of alternative dispute resolution, aiming to settle disputes without litigation where possible.

Her promotion brings the total number of partners at Geldards to 62.

The firm has also promoted three solicitors to associate. Aqeelah Mohammed has been promoted within the networks team in Nottingham, Sophie Taylor in the corporate team in the East Midlands, and Sumandeep Nahl in commercial property in Nottingham.

Chief executive Jeff Pearson said: “The hard working and talented staff at Geldards are at the heart of our business. We pride ourselves on providing an exceptional legal service to our valued clients, and this is only possible due to the outstanding people who work here.

“I am delighted to offer my congratulations on all the promotions this year and pay tribute to everyone who has contributed to continued growth and development of the firm, maintaining our position as a market-leading law firm.”

LIZ IS DEVELOPING AT HOWES PERCIVAL!

Howes Percival has appointed residential development specialist Liz Turner (pictured) to its development team in Leicester as demand for its service continues to grow.

Liz has 25 years of experience in the sector, working in-house and in private practice for regional and national housebuilders.

She joins Howes Percival as a senior associate, having spent the previous 16 years in the legal department at Barratt Redrow.

The law firm’s residential development team has a portfolio that includes big UK house builders as well as local and regional developers, landowners, and public sector organisations.

The team has been involved with many of the region’s largest developments acting for developers, planning promoters and landowners.

Nick James, partner and head of the development team, said: “Liz’s appointment is a direct response to the increase in instructions that we are seeing, both in regard to strategic and developable sites and we are delighted to welcome her to the firm.”

Geldards partner Kate Keenan

FareShare Midlands corporate partnerships manager Pauline Clarke

From Shackleton’s 1914 Antarctic exploration to providing the perfect cinematic look for Breaking Bad – lenses made by Cooke have helped define motion picture storytelling. Tom Pegden spoke to chief executive David Hancock about the brand’s rich history and plans for its future.

We’ve always put the focus on quality

It’s remarkable that camera lenses crafted in the East Midlands were used to capture Judy Garland dancing along the road to Oz, Humphrey Bogart kissing Ingrid Bergman in wartime Casablanca, and Christopher Reeve going up, up and away in Superman: The Movie.

From Spartacus and The Shining to Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones – right through to The Brutalist, the winner of last year’s Academy Award for Best Cinematography – hundreds of classic films have been filmed using Cooke lenses.

Its technology documented Everest expeditions as far back as the 1920s and were used to film Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy and the Keystone Cops.

It has been championed by Ridley Scott, Martin Scorsese and Ron Howard, and played a big role in filming the Emmy Award winning Netflix production Adolescence – starring Leicestershire’s Stephen Graham.

Such has been the influence of Cooke that it even has its own Oscar – collected at the Hollywood Scientific & Technical Awards in 2013.

MEETING THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE REGION’S TOP BUSINESSES

MAIN PICTURE: David Hancock has been chief executive of Cooke for just under 12 months INSET LEFT: The Cooke S8 65mm

To put it bluntly, the Leicester company designs and builds some the finest cinematic camera lenses in the world.

It supplies not just Hollywood but the movie industries in Europe and the UK, and is now taking a slice of growing markets in Bollywood and China.

Such has been its success that the “Cooke Look” has become a trademarked term –summing up the warm colours and lack of harshness which many professional filmmakers love about using its products.

And its home is a non-descript factory on the edge of a trading estate in Thurmaston.

Seven years ago, an investment company took

an 89 per cent share in the business, in a deal which valued Cooke at almost £100m.

Just under a year ago the owners brought in David Hancock as chief executive, to help it adapt to the demands of modern film-making.

David had been a co-founder of Dutch-based premium e-bike components brand Enviolo, leading it through its sale to a private equity investor.

Prior to that, he held leadership roles in the US and Europe across sales, marketing distribution and operations.

He grew up in Texas and moved to Amsterdam just over a decade ago where he lives with his family.

INSET LEFT:

TOP RIGHT: Cooke Optics -20-100mm T3.1

Varotal Zoom, in use from 1971 to the late 1980s

The call to lead Cooke had come out of the blue, while he was between jobs and wondering what to do next.

He said: “The phone rang in mid-2024, and it was a recruiter asking if I would you be interested in being the CEO of a cinematic optical lens company in the UK that was backed by private equity?

“I’d just worked two gigs at my last job for private equity, and had seen the good side and the bad side, and said I don't live in the UK, and I'm not working for private equity ever again, and I hung up.

“A week later I was talking with a friend from the UK, who's a recruiter, and when I told him

the name of the firm that had rung me, he said “they’re the third biggest executive recruiting firm in the world”, and I should definitely be in their database.

“So I called the guy back and said, ‘I’m an improbable candidate, but I’ll consider it’.

“As I got to know Cooke, I also got to know the investors Caledonia. Unlike most private equity firms who make decisions tied to when they have to return funds back to their investors, Caledonia has money dating back multiple generations and will buy a company and only sell it when it’s right for the company, not based on the funding cycle.

“So, they’re literally invested in the best interests of the company.

‘Who at 54 gets a chance to do something completely new – a chance to see if they’re actually good at being a leader regardless of the industry?’

“The job was intriguing to me because it was an industry I didn’t know, in a country I don’t know, with a team I didn’t build, and a product I didn't build, where I wasn’t the founder.

“I knew how to be a CEO though, and Cooke gave me the opportunity to stretch myself.

“There was some imposter syndrome in the back of my head after leaving my last job, but the combination of Caledonia, their style, the brand and the opportunity attracted me.

“Who at 54 gets a chance to do something completely new – a chance to see if they’re actually good at being a leader regardless of the industry?

“One of the reasons Caledonia took a risk on me as a non-industry insider, is because there was already so much knowledge inside the company. They wanted a CEO that could be someone that looks around corners, looks for gaps in the market gap, and who could allow the workforce to be the cinematic ninjas.”

David grew up loving stories – his mother was a literature professor – so he loved the idea of working for a company like Cooke which had storytelling at its very heart.

Despite its decades of heritage, Cooke had found itself affected by challenges influencing the movie sector – such as the 2023 Hollywood writers’ strike and broader changes to production values and content options on the back of the rise of YouTube and Netflix.

MAIN PICTURE: Matthew Lewis shooting the award-winning Netflix drama Adolescence on a Cooke SP3 32mm

Showroom at The Cooke Creative Centre in Hyderabad

Expensive movie equipment is also traditionally bought then rented out by specialist rental houses, which sees lenses used again and again rather than bought new for each movie.

He said: “The gear that goes on long-format, high-end Hollywood production is extremely complicated.

“Whether it was in 1934 in the first colour movie the Wizard of Oz, or for digital or VFX and CGI, all the tools are really techie.

“But things are changing. The writer’s strike in Hollywood saw a bunch of production go away, and at the same time, streaming was coming.

“Streaming does have original content, but if you watch something on a TV, do you really need it to be in 8K resolution? Do you need to capture that last strand of light that a Cooke lens – or another super-premium piece of equipment – can?

“One of the biggest spenders on production in 2024 was Netflix, and their business model is endless quantity for a fixed monthly price.

“Of course, if their quality goes below a certain level, people start cancelling subscriptions. But regardless of how much they spend on something like Oppenheimer, they can still only charge you so much a month.

“So, they want endless quantity with just good enough quality, and that’s a problem when you make lenses that cost £30,000.

“At the same time, lots of people started making content that was revenue generating on platforms such as YouTube using iPhone cameras or cheap Chinese lenses, telling a story

to people that cared more about the content than if it was made on the latest IMAX film format.

“Also, all of the high-end gear is rented, because a production might only need it for six months. And lenses last forever.

“Last year’s best cinematography Oscar was for The Brutalist, which was shot on a Cooke lens that was 30-years-old.

“In fact, there are over 500 films that have won the Oscar for either best cinematography or best picture using a Cooke lens. But how much does that pedigree help us sell lenses in this evolving marketplace?”

He said when he joined, there were issues that needed to be addressed head on and, unfortunately, jobs were lost, taking headcount down to around 70 people.

Another part of the new Cooke growth strategy, which happened before David came on board, included opening India and Beijing offices, providing it with fresh geographical diversity.

‘Leicester will always be our anchor and a light that shines on our brand. Without Leicester, I think we could lose our way’

Cooke also launched a more cost-effective ‘prosumer’ lens – a general purpose lens that can be used on both high-end and lower-cost productions called the SP3 series.

Retailing for around £3,000 it means a much smaller investment for producers of things like commercials, marketing content or YouTube content.

The beauty is that it retains much of the Cooke look, and has the prestige of being a Cooke product, but at a fraction of the price. It can also be used with cheaper camera equipment.

Half of Cooke’s sales now come from that while almost 60% of its business is in China and India.

Cooke is also putting £5m into product development this year, designing a broader range of lenses for different uses, appealing to different parts of the world.

David said: “Last year was invest and pivot for

us, and then this year will be thrive, with new strategies, leaner operations and a new product road map.

“Leicester will always be our anchor and a light that shines on our brand. Without Leicester, I think we could lose our way – we don’t want to just stick our logo on Chinese products.

“By the middle of next summer, we will have probably 10 active lens platforms – a platform can have several variants – and nine of them will be made in Leicester, with only one made in China. But all of them will have been designed in Leicester.

“One example is a new anamorphic lens coming out in late 2026, which is half the price of its predecessor, half the size, more contemporary, and aimed at areas that we never played in, such as eastern markets or western markets under the Netflix model which need to meet that minimum quality.

“The cost of making it in Leicester is not materially different than the cost of making it in

OPPOSITE TOP: Bella Ramsey and Catherine Goldschmidt in season 2 of The Last of Us, shot using a Cooke S4i

OPPOSITE BOTTOM:

China – dealing with their quality problems, dealing with the freight and import duty, longer lead times and potentially losing your brand halo.”

He said the beauty of a set-up like Cooke was that it could move at speed and adapt for new demands, while other manufacturers in the same market, moved at the speed of a tortoise.

“We have better agility, and smaller overheads, a prosumer product, and sensors that capture metadata within the lenses that we are better figuring out how to monetise.

“We also have global sales coverage. The competition are in a much worse position than we are.

“When the writers’ strike hit, everyone was coping as best they could, only we were coping a little bit better. Now we’re moving onto the offensive while other manufacturers are cutting costs.

“We did cut some jobs, and the last round of redundancies was sad. We lost some great

craftspeople, but we’re now piling a lot of investment into product development, giving the current staff growth opportunities to take on more scope.

“We also hired more salespeople and a new chief operating officer. Our goal is for Cooke to be less dependent on the traditional ways that we made money.”

The business is also talking to non-traditional players – who he can’t yet reveal: disrupters looking for a supplier agile enough to meet their fast-paced demands.

He said: “I spent 151 days last year away from home for Cooke. Sometimes it’s India, sometimes it’s Hollywood, but usually it’s London or Leicester.

“It’s started becoming more fun. I would say the first third of last year was sobering, then in the middle of the year, we started to get our sea legs.”

And his definition of the Cooke Look?

“It’s an intentional aberration, which makes

light fall off the edges of the image. Our lenses are really good at making a contrast between what’s in focus and what’s out of focus, so that it’s both pleasing and very warm.

“If you want to capture skin tone, you want to use one of our lenses.

“Some competitors’ lenses are known for being super clinical, so that it looks like if you were there in person. Which is great if you want to get the cleanest look - for instance, to shoot a car chase scene.

“But if you want the close-up of a grieving Robert De Niro, you want us, because of that contrast in light between what’s in focus and what's out of focus – allowing you to heighten the level of emotion.

“It’s warmer. If it’s shot on Cooke, it’s easier for the viewer to suspend their disbelief and fall into the story in a more fantastical sort of way.

“Ultimately a Cooke lens is a tool for storytelling. Our internal tagline is that we provide tools that let artists paint with light.”

MAIN PICTURE: David Hancock believes Cooke’s tight, efficient structure means it can move at speed and adapt to new demands

Cooke SP3 on DJI Ronin 4D

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

NEWS AND UPDATES FROM EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER’S LEADING SUPPORTERS

IN BRIEF

AGENCY LAUNCHES RAMS’ NEW WEBSITE

South Normanton marketing agency Purpose Media has launched a new website for Derby County Football Club, marking the latest milestone in a relationship that began more than a decade ago.

The site continues to provide access to the club’s ticketing system and RamsTV under a single sign-on, along with behind-the-scenes improvements.

Purpose Media began working with the Rams in 2014 and first developed its website in 2017 when the club left the English Football League’s shared digital framework.

BLUEPRINT CONDUCTS OFFICE RENOVATION

Global technology provider Worldline has moved into newly refurbished offices in Wolverhampton, following a fit out by Blueprint Interiors.

Having taken new space within the same building, Worldline appointed Blueprint to deliver a design that better served the team and brought the same standards as its other UK sites.

Blueprint has previously renovated Worldline offices in Nottingham, Darlington and Chester.

CONVERSIONS FIRM IS SETTING STANDARDS

Derby based Mackworth Vehicle Conversions has spent 18 months developing a new range of light commercial vehicle bodies called Streamline Pro.

Management said that instead of treating each order as a bespoke engineering project, it meant they could offer standardised platforms for vehicles bought to them by clients including tippers, dropsides and box bodies.

They said customers receive up-front technical specification, visuals, type approval data and pre-priced options, shortening the quotation stage and helping fleets plan with confidence.

Dr Ismini Vasileiou, (third right) with Liz Kendall MP

and members of the Government taskforce set up to get more women into tech

University backs plans to get women into tech

ADe Montfort University Leicester (DMU) academic has become a founding member of a new Government taskforce set up to get more women into tech.

Dr Ismini Vasileiou, associate professor in Cyber Security at DMU and director of the East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster, has been appointed to the Women in Tech Taskforce by Technology Secretary Liz Kendall MP.

Women remain significantly under-represented in the sector, particularly in senior and leadership roles. The new taskforce will advise Government on practical

actions to improve participation, progression and retention of women.

Dr Vasileiou said: “We will be supporting actiondriven solutions that align policy, skills and industry practice to deliver lasting impact for women in technology.”

Liz Kendall said: “This matters deeply to me. When women are inspired to take on a role in tech and have a seat at the table, the sector can make more representative decisions, build products that serve everyone, and unlock the innovation and growth our economy needs.”

Insurance tailored to your needs

Howden is committed to delivering bespoke insurance to fellow Chamber members across a range of industries – all from its office in Derby. Client director Paula Codur and account executive Jake Walters explain how they help.

Recently, we welcomed two new clients and successfully arranged tailored insurance programmes to meet their specific needs.

Client A is a Nottingham-based interior design firm, while Client B is a Leicester-based manufacturer specialising in aromatherapy products.

While these businesses operate in distinctly different sectors, our approach remained consistent: we took the time to understand their operations and crafted insurance solutions aligned with their unique risk profiles.

Client A joined the Chamber and

took advantage of our complimentary insurance review service, available to all members.

Our assessment uncovered several critical gaps in their existing cover that left the business vulnerable to significant losses.

In addition, Client A expressed concern over rising insurance premiums, which seemed disproportionate given their recent downsizing from two premises to one. They also shared broader business challenges. Our tailored insurance programme addressed many of these concerns.

Client B first engaged with us

during the Chamber manufacturing conference, where Howden was a key sponsor. What began as a casual conversation quickly developed into a deeper discussion about their insurance needs and risk management priorities.

This led to a comprehensive review of their existing cover, during which our team identified several areas for improvement.

For both clients, we delivered tailored insurance programmes that not only ensured robust protection in the event of a claim but also provided excellent value for the level of cover secured.

(centre)

East Midlands is a genuine land of opportunity

Why Damon Brain (pictured), chief executive of Duncan & Toplis, sees the region as a business hub – fuelling growth in the heart of the UK.

The East Midlands is a powerhouse of business opportunity, with a £55bn economy and a GVA of over £104bn. It is home to more than 368,000 businesses, providing over 2.6 million jobs.

Its connectivity to the wider country and the rest of the world is a key strength. The East Midlands Freeport, the UK’s only inland freeport, provides access to 185 cities internationally, while major brands such as RollsRoyce and Boots remaining based here more than a century after their founding speaks volumes about the region’s strength.

That is why, in our 100th year of doing business, Duncan & Toplis chose to expand our presence into new areas of the East Midlands, providing more accounting, audit, tax advisory and business services in the region.

This has included opening two new locations through

the acquisitions of Derby-based Underwood Green and Leicester-based Torr Waterfield, which play an important role in our growth strategy.

While the East Midlands already offers strong business opportunities, the potential of the region does not stop here. Last year, the Mayor of the East Midlands unveiled a regional vision to boost the economy by billions – creating 100,000 jobs, building 52,000 homes and adding £4.6bn to the local economy.

Opening new locations in Derby and Leicester marks a clear statement of intent from Duncan & Toplis. Derby’s economy is strong and diverse, with thriving sectors in advanced manufacturing, engineering, healthcare and education, while Leicester has a fastgrowing business scene, with business growth higher than London, Birmingham and the national average.

Business Expo adds tech zone

The Love Business Expo 2026, taking place in Loughborough this spring, will include a Manufacturing & Tech Zone, delivered in partnership with the Chamber.

Taking place on Thursday 12 February 2026 at Holywell Park Conference Centre, on the Loughborough University campus, the expo is one the region’s biggest business events, bringing together business leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs for a day of insight, inspiration and meaningful networking.

This year the upstairs networking area will be transformed into a dedicated Manufacturing & Tech Zone, exclusively for Chamber member businesses operating within the manufacturing and technology sectors.

OPINION

By Fern Ritchie, (pictured) security and Compliance team leader at Your IT.

2026 won’t be the year of some brand-new, sci-fi cyber threat. The real danger is simpler than that. Cyber-crime in 2026 is going to be quieter, more targeted and much harder to spot.

The biggest shift I see is attackers behaving more like businesses. Criminal groups already spend weeks inside networks, watching how companies work, learning who has access to what, and when people are most likely to make mistakes. In 2026, that will be the norm.

AI will make this worse, not better. Phishing emails are already harder to spot. This year they will sound exactly like your finance director, your supplier, or even you. Voice cloning and deepfake video will move from “interesting” to “real business risk”. If your controls rely on people spotting dodgy emails or odd phone calls, that’s not going to hold up.

Midlands long established as a region that excels in making, creating and innovating, I’m delighted we can showcase some of the outstanding businesses and the products and services they provide at the 2026 Love Business Expo.

As headline sponsor of the expo for the 13th consecutive year, the new zone reinforces the strong partnership between the Chamber and the event organisers.

Chamber head of membership

Jade Brindley said: “With the East

“For anyone keen to see what these sectors have to offer, whether just to find out more or see what the future has in store, it’s well work making a beeline for the new Manufacturing and Tech Zone.”

Holywell Park will also host a meeting of the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN) on the morning of the expo, with keynote speakers, round-table discussions and networking with fellow manufacturing professionals. www.lovebusinessexpo.co.uk

Supply chain risk is where I see many businesses getting caught out. If you share data with partners, accountants, or IT providers, their security posture becomes your problem.

New regulation like the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill matters. It’s designed to strengthen resilience across critical services and the wider supply chain, and it will inevitably put more scrutiny on the organisations that manage and protect your systems.

Choosing an IT provider will increasingly be about trust, and standards, not just response times and cost. It’s a turning point in our industry; one the more responsible providers have long sought.

Cyber security isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being harder to compromise than the next business down the road.

THE CHAMBER IS HONOURED BY THE SUPPORT OF ITS STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

Gemma Orton, EMA Training

CHAMBER NEWS

CONNECTING, CHAMPIONING AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Framework is way to unlock our potential

The region’s business leaders attended the launch of the Chamber’s new Framework for Growth getting a chance to feed back on its new list of policy asks for Government and the region’s political heads.

The event, which took place at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium, centred on the changes needed to unlock further growth across Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, during what is proving to be one of the toughest economic environments in years.

The document was drawn up by the Chamber policy team and included key asks covering skills, transport, connectivity, innovation and investment and followed detailed research and engagement with firms, and insight from Bank of England forums.

‘It’s about turning ambition into achievement’

Despite huge potential, the region continues to face challenges hampering growth, including poor transport infrastructure, sky-high energy costs, painfully slow planning and a lack of skilled candidates to fill roles.

Measures such as reforming the broken planning system and business rates; investing in skills and simplifying access to apprenticeships; achieving devolution for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland; and getting electrification of the Midland Mainline fully completed will help the region thrive.

Attendees at the launch event included Jane Cowley, a partner at Buckles solicitors and a director of Leicestershire Business Voice

She said: “We are indeed fortunate in the East Midlands to have a strong voice for business in the form of representation from our East Midlands Chamber.

“The Framework for Growth is relevant and realistic and provides an opportunity for supported economic progression.

“Key is to ensure all decision makers and stakeholders act coherently in the best interests of business and ensure our decision makers are accountable.”

Dr Cham Kang is president of the Chamber and runs business growth consultancy Qinesis which, among other things, helps manage the East Midlands Manufacturing Network. He described the Framework for Growth as a “dynamic roadmap” designed to unlock the region’s full potential.

He said: “Rooted in collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, it provides businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire with the tools to scale, adapt and thrive. By focusing on skills development, digital transformation and stronger connectivity, the framework ensures local enterprises can compete on a global stage while creating inclusive opportunities at home.

“It’s about turning ambition into achievement – helping entrepreneurs, innovators, manufacturers and communities harness their strengths to drive prosperity. With this framework, the East Midlands is confidently shaping a brighter, more resilient future.”

Business consultant Kevin Harris, chairman of the Chamber board, said the overriding principle of the Framework – that “the currency of business is confidence” – was key.

Businesses, he said, needed the confidence to invest, to hire, innovate and plan ahead. And that confidence depends on clarity – in policy direction, funding commitments and long-term ambition.

He said he was helping the Chamber on its longer-term campaign to turn the evidencebased Framework into action and ensure the East Midlands strengthens its competitiveness and long-term growth.

Business Peak District (BPD) is a free membership organisation in the Peak District National Park, High Peak, Staffordshire Moorlands and Derbyshire Dales. Its principal supporter is East Midlands Chamber, and it works with councils, the Peak District National Park Authority, the University of Derby, as well as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire. BPD has more than 700 members. Email: members@businesspeakdistrict.com

Kevin Harris

Some of the guests at the Framework for Growth launch

Guests network at the launch

Employers need skills support

The region’s firms need business rates reform, faster planning and a long-term tax roadmap, with latest figures showing only a slight growth in the economy.

Data from the Office for National Statistics showed 0.3% GDP growth in November, a figure higher than had been expected by economists.

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore (pictured) said: “Starting the year with economic growth is encouraging – it suggests a return to a sense of stability after the uncertainty that led up to last autumn’s Budget – but firms are still wading through persistently tough trading conditions that must be addressed without delay.

Apprenticeships

are a way to get more young people into jobs

“Our recently published Framework for Growth outlines these areas as among key asks that, if urgently prioritised by policymakers, would unlock growth in the East Midlands and incentivise investment.

“The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey for Q4 of 2025 emphasised the fragile confidence we saw across the year in the East Midlands showing no sign of abate – stalled investment, four out of 10 firms considering price increases and business rates moving up into the top three concerns of the region’s businesses after inflation and corporate taxation.

“Business rates are unfairly disproportionate to sectors like hospitality and manufacturing, firms still face sky-high energy bills, planning decisions are taking far too long and there needs to be a long-term roadmap on taxation.

“We need to see that happen as soon as possible in 2026 to enable the region to thrive.”

Meanwhile, flexible skills funds for SMEs and a ‘single skills portal’ for firms to access apprenticeships are among measures that would support getting people into jobs, East Midlands Chamber has said, after unemployment among over 16s in the region reached 6%.

The latest estimated ONS figures cover the three months to November and show youth unemployment at the highest level since the end of 2020.

Richard Blackmore said: “We can’t keep seeing East Midlands

‘Employers need support and that means addressing the skills gap and bringing down the high cost of doing business’

unemployment creep up without fixing the root causes.

“Employers need support and that means addressing the skills gap and bringing down the high cost of doing business.

“Across the whole of 2025, our Quarterly Economic Survey showed stalled investment in recruiting of staff, with between six and seven out of ten firms consistently reporting having had difficulty finding staff.

“Skills investment is essential so that when a role is advertised, an applicant fits the criteria an

employer needs and can hit the ground running.

“Alongside the need to urgently address skills shortages are the high costs associated with employing staff. These increased in April last year as employers had to foot the impact of measures like higher National Insurance contributions being implemented from the 2024 Autumn Budget.

“Mitigating those costs and anxiety in the lead-up to the 2025 Autumn Budget are likely to have resulted in hesitant hiring, with firms alleviating their cost base through natural attrition, where staff that leave are not replaced.

“Political leaders must urgently prioritise skills investment and support business, so it is incentivised to invest. Acting on the asks outlined in the Chamber’s Framework for Growth would be the best way forward.”

Charity gives youngsters the confidence to make a splash

By Mark Williams (pictured), head of

We are a successful charity celebrating 60 years of helping children and young people gain the skills and confidence to be successful throughout life.

We use adventurous outdoor activities such as rock climbing, caving, hill walking and canoeing to help people gain confidence and understand how to work as a team.

We are located at the Hollowford Centre on the outskirts of Castleton, surrounded by hills and beautiful scenery.

In addition to our work with children and young people, we also run team-building events for businesses and work with young employees from business across the UK.

Our story is an ongoing success, as around 13,000 people visit Hollowford every year and have fantastic experiences.

Careful management of groups, enhanced by a newly-refurbished conference block and brand-new toilets and showers, has led to a number of very

centres at

Lindley

Educational.

successful team-building events for companies during the busier summer months.

Our biggest selling point is our location as we are surrounded by spectacular hills and people just love coming to Hollowford.

We can walk out of the door and be stood on top of Mam Tor or Losehill within 90 minutes.

We have lots of activity on-site including high ropes, zip wire and a pond which is used for raft building.

But we are also lucky how close other activity venues such as rock climbing at Stanage Edge and caving at Giants Hole, which are both less than 15 minutes away.

It’s a tough market as everyone has very limited budgets and everyone wants an amazing deal. You get what you pay for, and we have always prided ourselves at Lindley on providing high quality.

Increasingly there are more and more outdoor activity providers and many offer cheaper experiences than we can offer – but luckily lots of people see what they are getting and still choose us.

How do you scale your business without scaling your workload?

To those looking on, it seems that businesses with rapid growth have it all – a burgeoning order book, a good reputation and strong foundations on which to propel themselves even further.

The reality can paint a different story. Businesses that grow quicker than expected can face all manner of issues as their people, processes, culture and skills struggle to keep pace.

A scaling business often means a scaling workload – which often comes before suitably skilled additional staff can be recruited. Staff find themselves spread too thinly and quality can suffer, as can relationships with customers and internal communication.

Once problems start to emerge, businesses can find themselves going backwards all too easily.

Tackling these challenges headon needs access to specialist knowledge. The High Growth Academy’s events, workshops and forums provide access to expert

advice, including advice on growth through digital technology.

Led by the Chamber in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University, the University of Derby and University of Nottingham, the academy is open to eligible scaling businesses in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire that can demonstrate 20% annual growth in revenue, employment, or market share over the past three consecutive years.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

INCLUDE:

Structure for Scale: Projects, Insights and Future Tech 12 February, Derby

With a full focus on a growing list of daily operational activities, established start-ups can forget to dedicate time to long-term strategy. How can they maintain their competitive advantage? Continue to innovate? Research and enter new markets? Long-term

‘The High Growth Academy’s events, workshops and forums provide access to expert advice, including advice on growth through digital technology’

strategy can be hard to manage.

This workshop explores proven ways to show how strategic projects can be led with confidence, balancing risk, ensuring the priorities, and making the most of technology including AI-driven business analytics.

There will be a particular focus on IoT (connected devices) and blockchain (digital ledgers).

Embedding AI Workflows into your Growth Strategy

20 February, Nottingham

Existing software and manual processes may not be fit for purpose when it comes to working at scale.

Operational bottlenecks are a real risk, particularly when knowledge sits with only a handful of staff or when an owner struggles to delegate approval processes.

This workshop starts with exploring different workflow types to unlock scalable growth, identifying automation opportunities using an AI Opportunity Scorecard, and reviewing the right platforms and products.

It also considers how to integrate workflows with CRMs, finance systems, emails, spreadsheets and third-party APIs (which allows different software applications to work together).

Delegates will learn about the best workflows, how to design and build their first workflow, and how to test, refine and deploy it. They will identify and map bottlenecks and friction points and learn how to use triggers, extraction and analysis.

Importantly, they will leave knowing exactly how AI can scale

their business without scaling their workload.

Delegates are provided with a practical 90-day roadmap to begin embedding AI across their organisations together with templates, scorecards and patterns to apply immediately.

Access to Finance

26 February, Nottingham

Making sure the right finance is in place is critical for any business –particularly when cashflow issues emerge and the business needs access to finance from a lender who understands it and is sympathetic to its challenges.

This interactive one-day workshop provides delegates with a roadmap to understanding and securing appropriate funding, identifying their particular financial needs, and how to pitch effectively.

Scaling Sales with RevOps & CRM

27 February, Chesterfield

For many businesses, the primary function of their CRM is as an address book, but it can, and should, be so much more than that. It should be the ‘single source of truth’ for all staff and the central engine for sales.

This workshop will show you how to build your first 'real' pipeline, how to adopt simple, clear sales stages such as ‘qualified’, 'proposal' and ' closed', and simple rules for moving a deal from one stage to the next.

The workshop shows how a simple template for a 30-minute weekly pipeline review can actively help sales teams win deals and give senior managers sales forecasting

Continued on page 40...

CHAMBER

oversight they can trust. It will also provide advice on simple tactics to make data entry easy. Delegates will leave with templates and playbooks which they can deploy to support their sales process.

Advanced SEO

19 March, Nottingham

To build and maintain a healthy sales pipeline, businesses need to ensure their website is as high as possible in search engine rankings.

At this workshop, delegates will learn about dealing with indexing issues, how to improve user experience, provide signals of their E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness and Trustworthiness), analyse their search console and other data, plus how to use structured data and image optimisation.

It will also cover how to improve a site’s visibility in AI searches, such as Google’s AI Mode and ChatGPT web search, along with ideas on using AI tools for SEO processes such as content writing without compromising quality.

To find out more, please contact the business support line on 0330 053 8639 or register at: www.emcdnl.co.uk/services/accelerator

UPCOMING ACCELERATOR WORKSHOPS

PLEASE NOTE: Eligibility criteria apply

• 12 February: Modern SEO, Belper

• 17 February: The Impact of AI on Search Engine Optimisation, Clay Cross

• 17 February: WordPress Masterclass, Nottingham

• 18 February: Vibe Coding – Using AI Prompts to Improve your Website, Write Code and Build Apps, Derby

• 19 February: Managing Finance, Newark

• 24 February: Mastering Graphic Design with Canva and Adobe Express, Nottingham

• 24 February: Paid Social Media Masterclass, Mansfield

• 25 February: Vibe Coding – Using AI Prompts to Improve your Website, Write Code and Build Apps, Matlock

• 26 February: Managing Finance, Derby

• 26 February: Utilising ChatGPT for your Business, Glossop

• 4 March: The Impact of AI on Search Engine Optimisation, Nottingham

• 5 March: Vibe Coding – Using AI Prompts to Improve your Website, Write Code and Build Apps, Nottingham

• 6 March: Recruitment and Selection - How to Recruit the Right Staff, Matlock

EXPORT

• 19 February: Boosting EU E-Commerce –Understanding Duties, Documentation & Compliance

• 26 February: East Midlands International Trade Network – Derbyshire Forum, Chesterfield

• 10 March: The New EU Eco-Design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)

HIGH GROWTH PROGRAMME

• 12 February: Structure for Scale: Projects, Insights and Future Tech Enterprise Centre, Derby

• 20 February: Embedding AI Workflows into your Growth Strategy, Nottingham

• 25 February: Growth Drivers: Access to Finance, Nottingham

• 27 February: Scaling Sales with RevOps & CRM, Chesterfield

• 9 March: Turning Ideas into Actionable Business Cases, Derby

Book at: https://bit.ly/AcceleratorTrainingEv

A new home for Dansies

A fixture of Chatsworth

Road since 1946,

Dansies is moving forward – slimmed down, sharper, and ready for the future.

Dansies is a familiar name on Chatsworth Road. Known primarily for photocopiers, computers, office stationery, vacuum cleaners and a whole host of repair services, the business has served both local customers and businesses with the same friendly service since it first opened its doors in 1946.

Under the steady management of Paul and Nigel since 1996, Dansies has become one of the longeststanding establishments in the area.

Now, after nearly 30 years at their Chatsworth Road premises, Dansies are moving on. The team admits it’s bittersweet. Parking and access at their current site have long been a challenge, but what really makes leaving difficult is saying goodbye to a location that has been at the heart of their

business for so long.

“We’ve loved being part of the Chatsworth Road community and have built so many great relationships here,” Paul and Nigel said. “It’s sad to be leaving, but we’re also really excited about what’s ahead.”

While Dansies has always welcomed walk-in customers, the business has evolved over the years to become increasingly businessto-business focused. Their new home will reflect this streamlined approach — focusing on the essentials: photocopiers, stationery, and vacuum repairs.

That said, loyal long-time customers are far from forgotten. “We’re absolutely still here for our regulars,” Nigel explained. “We just ask that people call ahead and book an appointment, so we can make sure we’re available to help.”

SPECIAL OFFER WHEN YOU BUY A NEW COPIER

When buying a new copier, we can offer you 20,000 free colour prints or 200,000 black prints, but the prints have to be used in the first four months of buying the copier. To take advantage of this offer please quote this magazine when speaking to us.

We also have a referral scheme, where if the referrer purchases a copier, we can pay you up to £100 LOVE2SHOP Vouchers.

A BRIEF HISTORY

Mr Dansie was previously an engineer in the RAF and set the business up following WWII. In 1946 Mr Dansie started doing typewriter repairs, manufacturing many of the parts himself. It’s suspected he took over the premises from Crappers Haberdashery.

photocopiers at a college in Durham. Nigel came straight from school and specialises in photocopier repairs and maintenance; now a major part of the business representing around 90% of the business’ activity across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and surrounding areas.

They moved from parts to selling Olympia typewriters, becoming the main dealer in the area. In 1976, they added stationery supplies and the business was sold to a Sheffield-based family. In 1996 it was sold again, this time to Paul Rice, John Walton, and Nigel Walton, the three present owners (who are all local), and continue to offer an excellent array of services.

‘If

you run a business and are looking for copier services, please give us a call to see how we can help’

Paul started in the business in 1982, John in 1984 and Nigel, John’s son, joined in 1996 when the three of them took over the reins.

Paul has always been in office supplies, previously at Taylor & Brown, Mansfield. John is an exMarine engineer, having worked in the Royal Navy and he took a course in electronics, typewriters and

The three are supported by Jayne Blackwood, Frank Stawarz, Matthew Cooper, Ted Stevens and Michele Deakin.

"We look forward to continuing the great long-term relationships with our customers,” said Paul. “Over the past 30 years we’ve gotten to know each other and build a set of services that works for both. If you run a business and are looking for copier services, please give us a call to see how we can help.”

So, there you have it - moving to start a new chapter in their business, slimmer, more focused and ready to apply themselves to the future needs of their customers.

CONTACT US T: 01246 273 794/235 455 E: sales@dansies.co.uk VISIT OUR WEBSITE: dansies.co.uk

CHAMBER NETWORKS

BUILDING CONNECTIONS WITH YOUR PEERS AND BUSINESS LEADERS

New chair looks to the future

At the start of 2026, Preethi Kang took over as chair of Generation Next, the Chamber’s network for young professionals aged 18-35.

Preethi is a business, marketing and sales professional with more than 15 years’ experience.

In her current role as marketing manager at Derby-based business growth consultancy Qinesis – run by her father, Chamber president Cham Kang – she has worked in the engineering, manufacturing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics markets with multinationals & SMEs.

‘Generation Next is a fun and empowering environment – and a learning programme developed by you and for you’

She spoke at the recent Chamber AGM about how she got where she is today, her hopes and aspirations for the network, and the encouragement she had received from her dad.

She said: “Dad suggested I join Generation Next and for once I listened – and I am so happy I did.

“All the stuff my dad used to say to me about service, listening carefully, detail, values, culture, communication skills, project

management, that there was no ‘I’ in TEAM…. It all came flooding back.

“With Generation Next I was learning so much and in a fun way with wonderful people around me.

“I built up a network of wonderful professionals with ambition and who had my back.

“I could go to them for help and there would no judgement. The training programme from Generation Next was fun and enjoyable which really fitted in with my learning style. My personal development rocketed and the

spend time with the Chamber board, and learned so much because they were so kind to me and nurtured my growth.

“Generation Next is a fun and empowering environment – and a learning programme developed by you and for you.

impact at work in my social life were amazing.

“I even got an opportunity to

“I am passionate about Generation Next and as president I want as many young professionals in the East Midlands as possible to have the same personal and professional growth experience I have had so that they can have the success they deserve.”

Generation Next is seeking young ambassadors to join the network and help lead the Chamber’s work with the next generation of business leaders.

While the “Board of Champions” drives strategy and shapes its direction, its ambassadors play an equally vital role in bringing the network to life.

Ambassadors are the faces of the network, who help make its events, initiatives and campaigns engaging and inclusive, ensuring members feel welcomed, supported and inspired.

Being an ambassador is also an opportunity for personal and professional growth – providing visibility across events, building your profile, developing leadership skills and expand your network.

If you are interested in being a Generation Next ambassador in 2026 contact new chair Preethi Kang or one of the Generation Next Champions.

Visit: https://generationnextemc.co.uk

Preethi Kang at the Generation Next Awards

Preethi with her father Dr Cham Kang

The 2025 Generation Next Summer Festival & Awards Credit: Pete Martin Photography

Apprentice star to deliver event keynote

Apioneering British businesswoman who has been celebrated for her innovation and entrepreneurial spirit will be the keynote speaker at the 2026 Enterprising Women Conference this spring.

Sian Gabbidon was the first black female winner of The Apprentice on the BBC, and has gone on to follow a career as a motivational speaker and businesswoman.

After studying design, marketing and production, she launched a clothing brand from her bedroom while working full-time.

She also co-founded ecommerce agency Twenty Twenty Digital, helping businesses with their online sales.

Guests joining her at the conference include Mariam Smith, the managing director of Datalink Electronics in Loughborough, who gained the Business Woman of the Year title at the Enterprising Women Awards 2025.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is 'Give to Gain' and the Thursday, 5 March, conference will explore what that means in the East Midlands.

It takes place at Vaillant Live in Derby and will also see the launch of the Enterprising Women Awards 2026.

Eileen Perry MBE DL, who cochairs the Chamber’s Enterprising Women network with Jean

Mountain, said the conference would be a showcase of the determination, forward-minded leadership, and impressive skill sets demonstrated by women throughout our regional business community.

‘We’re incredibly excited to bring everyone together for what

promises to be a truly empowering event’

She said: “Enterprising Women exists to champion women at every stage of their business and career journey.

“This year’s conference reflects that mission perfectly, from inspiring keynote speakers to shared learning from women who are leading, growing and making a real impact across our region.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring everyone together for what promises to be a truly empowering event and we’re extremely grateful to our partners Barclays, Knights & Vaillant Live for their continued support in making it possible.“

The conference runs from 9.30am2.30pm and tickets can be booked at: https://is.gd/WOkkPQ Bookings close at 10am on Friday, 27 February 2026.

Helping region’s females in business

for nearly 30 years!

Eileen Perry and Jean Mountain founded Enterprising Women in 1997 and have co-chaired the network ever since.

Created to celebrate female talent, the network helps women in business build valuable connections and develop their skills both personally and professionally while celebrating female talent in the East Midlands.

Both Eileen and Jean are past presidents of the East Midlands Chamber and remain active members, with Eileen currently serving on the board.

Nearly 30 years after it was established, with Eileen and Jean at the helm, the network continues to thrive with hundreds of members championing women in business across the region.

There are a number of events held throughout the year to support you to collaborate and to grow your networks, develop your knowledge and skills and celebrate female talent across the East Midlands.

‘You’ll receive a warm welcome and have the opportunity to make new connections to support your personal and professional development’

All are welcome to attend the Enterprising Women events. Chamber members receive preferential pricing and there are a lots of other benefits to becoming a chamber member.

Members range from sole traders to international organisations so whether you’re a small business, just starting your own business or work for one of the many major companies in the region, you’ll receive a warm welcome and have the opportunity to make new connections to support your personal and professional development.

Throughout the year there are several networking events held across the region. From afternoon teas, to learning and development sessions, there are many opportunities to network and collaborate with female leaders from across the East Midlands.

Each March, the Chamber hosts the Enterprising Women Conference. The conference takes place close to International Women’s Day and features key speakers, workshops and networking opportunities. Book tickets for 2026 at: https://is.gd/WOkkPQ

The conference also sees the launch of the annual Enterprising Women Awards which take place every September.

Eileen Perry (left) and Jean Mountain

Sian Gabbidon is this year’s keynote speaker

UPCOMING EMMN MEETINGS

• Leicestershire:

12 February, 7.30-10.30am: Part of the Love Business Expo 2026, Holywell Park Conference Centre, Loughborough (see page 35).

• Derbyshire: 27 February, 7.30-10.30am: Cromford Mills, Matlock.

• Nottinghamshire: 10 March, 7.30-10.30am: NTU Mansfield.

Manufacturers are stronger together

The Chamber launched the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN) in March 2022.

There are six groups covering Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and they each meet every couple of months. Between them, the branches have 400-plus members.

Membership is free and open to manufacturers of any size. It also entitles members to complimentary

MEMBER CASE STUDY: BENNETT ENGINEERING

EMMN member Bennett Engineering has designed and supplied a cutting tool to fix an engineering challenge for Aquabox – a charity that provides safe drinking water and aid to people affected by natural disasters, extreme weather and conflicts.

Aquabox provide two solutions: a family filter capable of filtering water at the rate of one litre per minute, and designed to meet the needs of a typical family; and a community filter, with the same technology scaled up to process up to six litres per minute, and designed for schools, clinics and community centres.

‘Even though it might look simple to design and manufacture, a lot of thought has gone into this tool’

The Aquabox filter system has a central core of sub-micron filter membranes which are impenetrable to bacteria and most viruses,

membership of Make UK. The criteria for joining the network are:

• You are a senior manager or leader

• Your business is based in the Chamber area of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire

• Your business makes something

For details visit: https://emmn.co.uk

Bennett Engineering has designed and supplied a cutting tool to fix an engineering challenge for Aquabox, a charity that provides safe drinking water and humanitarian aid

producing safe, clean water for drinking.

Aquabox trustee Dominic Wish approached Bennett Engineering at an EMMN event to see if the business could help with an issue affecting a pipe component that did not meet their strict tolerances.

Working with industrial partner ST Engineering in Ilkeston, Bennett designed and built a cutting tool, a bit like a pencil sharpener, to shave off some of the external plastic from the pipe without affecting the internal filter.

Director and senior design engineer Craig Harbron said: “Even though it might look simple to design and manufacture, a lot of thought has gone into this tool.

“I am really pleased with the outcome.”

Volunteers are said to have found the cutting device easy to use and handle.

Dominic Wish said: “The very slightly out-of-tolerance filter components have caused us

significant assembly problems resulting in additional scrap.

“This simple, but effective, tool allows us to shave a small amount from the outside of the filter membrane component prior to gluing into the assembly. Scrap rates are down, and assembly is much easier – thank you to Bennet Engineering.”

Bennet Engineering director

Seleena Creedon said: “It’s been our pleasure to help Aquabox with something that might seem small but is clearly crucial to make sure the final filter product is perfect.

“Aquabox are doing amazing work, we’re proud to have supported them in this small way to carry on getting their life-saving filters out to people who need them.”

Cromford Mills

Seleena Creedon and Craig Harbron of Bennett Engineering

TRAINING & EVENTS

BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE AND DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS

Culture show has six appeal

Businesses and charities will come together to champion equality, diversity and inclusion at the 2026 East Midlands Celebration of Culture and Communities.

Now in its sixth year, the Chamber event returns to Athena Leicester on 24 April, and tickets and table reservations are now on sale.

It celebrates the people, businesses and charities that make the region a vibrant place to live and work, and last year broke records with 500 attendees.

Live performances confirmed so far include carnival band Xtreme and DJ The Old Boy, with more announcements expected. A three-course dining experience will be provided by Sanjay Foods.

‘Diversity is our region’s strength, and we are stronger together’

The 2026 headline partners are De Montfort University, emh Group, RandalSun Capital and Business 2 Business, alongside associate partners Barclays, Nelsons, PPL PRS, Assured Energy, Sanjib 8 and Sanjay Foods.

Sanjib Sahota is managing director of events and marketing company Sanjib 8, which helps deliver the evening.

He said: “I would like to thank all the businesses, charities and people that ensure this event is a success.

“Your support is an example of what can be achieved when we are synergised and energised with a common purpose – to celebrate and recognise the positive contributions that people,

Bollywood act Karan Pangali at the 2025 Culture and Communities celebration Credit:

businesses, charities, and communities make to our daily lives. Diversity is our region’s strength, and we are stronger together.”

Chamber president Cham Kang said: “It highlights the rich tapestry of traditions, talents and voices that make Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire such dynamic places to live and work.

“It’s more than a celebration – it’s a powerful reminder that when communities come together, they spark creativity, strengthen connections and inspire ambition.”

are the community partner for this amazing event.

“This event aligns with our continuous commitment and values in supporting our clients, the businesses and people that make this region thrive and prosper.”

Reserve a table at: https://is.gd/kPVtaR For partner opportunities email: info@sanjib8.com

Conference will put focus on technology

A spring conference will help businesses adapt to the changing nature of technology – including future-proofing your business.

Delivered by Nottinghamshire County Council, in partnership with the Chamber, the one-day Nottinghamshire Awareness Digital conference on 16 March will provide practical insights into digital strategy and technologies with real-world case studies, demonstrations and an opportunity to network.

The free conference is open to firms based in the county of Nottinghamshire.

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “Whether looking to improve online presence, streamline operations, adopt new technologies like AI or simply understand what digital transformation could mean, this conference is a fantastic opportunity for firms in the county.”

Nottinghamshire County Council already delivers a Digital Connectivity Framework, which aims to make Nottinghamshire one of the best-connected parts of the UK.

The Nottinghamshire Digital conference takes place at the Trent Conference Centre.

To register, visit: tinyurl.com/yetf5hde

Amit Sonpal, head of mid corporate at Barclays said: “We are absolutely delighted that Barclays

Pete Martin Photography

Collaborationis key to growth

Innovation, making productivity gains and empowering the workforce were among themes explored by the region’s businesses at the East Midlands Future Flux Economic and Innovation Conference in Leicester.

Sponsored by RandalSun Capital and De Montfort University (DMU), which also hosted the event, it included talks and panel discussions reflecting on the performance of the East Midlands economy and identifying opportunities for growth.

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore shared key asks to political leaders from the Chamber’s recently launched Framework for Growth, alongside research data gathered from firms across the region.

‘Economic growth is only going to come through more and more collaboration’

He said: “Research carried out by the Chamber across 2025 has continually shown a sense of fragile confidence among businesses in the region and getting firms, the education sector, economic experts together in one place starts conversations, builds ideas and helps navigate the economic pressures collectively faced.”

DMU director of research, business and innovation Helen Donnellan introduced the conference.

She said: “We are all custodians of our place, and we all have a role to play in economic growth within our place. That economic growth is only going to come through more and more collaboration. The more we collaborate, the more we innovate.”

Bank of England deputy agent for the East Midlands Dr Jamie Jordan shared insight on the inflationary performance and economic outlook for the region.

He said: “We still remain a little in the thick of it but there is always opportunity, so while there may be headwinds and uncertainty, there’s an element of how you can turn that to your advantage – it's always worth asking that question to then try and pursue opportunity.”

...AND SO IS INNOVATION AND ENTERPRISE

RandalSun Capital founder and chairman and Randal Foundation co-founder Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL (pictured) gave a talk on driving prosperity through innovation and enterprise.

He said: “I’m really thankful to the Chamber for putting this conference on. It’s so important for businesses and for voluntary sectors to come together and collaborate. We heard so much at the conference on collaboration. That's how things move. That’s how things change. It was great to have universities, the public sector and funding bodies, as well as the private sector in one place, with all sorts of different businesses from SMEs to large corporates.

“Having a forum where we can talk – and this event was all about innovation and productivity – is a really powerful strength. It’s been a challenging year for business and we're seeing that through the economic data that the Chamber gets from its members. We saw that with investment, hiring people, investing in machinery; all those things down.”

He added: “I think economic inactivity is a serious problem for us. I mentioned in my presentation that, at the moment, by the end of this Parliament, economic inactivity is going to cost us about £80bn and £110bn by 2030. The figures are absolutely crazy – almost 10 million people in the UK – and then we talk about the skills gap.

“Almost 3 million are on sick, so the issue is how Government and businesses work together to try and bring these people back to work and make sure that we can actually bring down the cost of the public purse but also give the opportunities and businesses support to bring them back.

“The other factors I mentioned include the one million youngsters not in education or in training. That's a big chunk. These are kids with no teachers that would have ended up on the welfare state.

“I was really pleased to see that Government has started to take that on board and my foundation, the King’s Trust and Centre for Social Justice are lobbying through this.”

Energy event delivered powerful message

Businesses and academics from across the region gained the latest insights at the Midlands Energy Conference.

Delivered by the Chamber in partnership with the University of Nottingham Energy Institute and sponsored by Flogas, part of DCC Energy, the conference was held at Derwent Electric Hydropower at Masson Mills, Matlock Bath. Panel discussions and keynote speakers shared insight on technological developments in areas like fission, fusion and hydrogen as well as future production, storage and distribution of energy.

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore opened the event and chaired a panel discussion looking at incentivising business to prioritise renewable investment.

He said: “The determination of business in the East Midlands to look closely at energy storage and carbon reduction is encouraging but the evolving journey brings as many challenges as opportunities.

“How best do we address our future approach to sustainable energy storage, its production and evolving technology while incentivising firms to embrace the journey – these are questions that should be addressed.”

Jaz Aujla, strategic energy partner at Flogas, part of DCC Energy, spoke about the transition from fossil fuels to lower carbon alternatives.

She said: “The message from me was that regardless of where an organisation is on their net zero journey, there is always something or a mix of technologies they can explore to help reach those targets.”

Delegates network at the 2025 East Midlands Energy Conference

East Midlands Future Flux Economic and Innovation Conference in Leicester

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

www.emc-dnl.co.uk/sustainability

HELPING BUSINESSES TRANSITION TO A SUSTAINABLE AND LOW-CARBON ECONOMY

Making power while the sun shines

With businesses facing pressure from rising energy costs, meeting sustainability targets and volatile grid conditions, a wave of innovation is offering them more control by turning their rooftops into intelligent clean-energy systems.

From family-run manufacturers to logistics parks and property funds, battery enabled solar is helping businesses cut costs, carbon and grid reliance.

Chesterfield-based AlphaGen Energy is a specialist in rooftop solar and battery storage solutions with an approach that combines high-efficiency solar panels, advanced lithium battery systems and a smart energy management system (EMS), enabling businesses to generate, store and use their own energy.

Clients include Airedale Springs, a fourth-generation, family-run manufacturer of precision springs.

Since partnering with AlphaGen to install a 92.4 kWp rooftop solar array and a 60 kWh commercial battery storage system, the company has significantly reduced its reliance on grid power – lowering energy costs, improving its resilience and enhancing its carbon credentials.

It has since won two UK Manufacturing Awards for sustainability innovation. AlphaGen chief executive Jeremy Pearson said: “Manufacturing is an energy-intensive environment.

“By integrating battery storage, Airedale Springs can capture surplus solar, avoid peak tariffs, and keep operations running even during grid disruption.”

AlphaGen has partnered with global battery manufacturer SunSynk, giving it access to next-generation hybrid inverters, smart batteries and containerised storage units for bigger clients.

Representatives from NCT visit the Wrightbus factory in Ballymena

Green buses are just the ticket

streets thanks to a partnership between Nottingham City Transport (NCT) and manufacturer Wrightbus.

Representatives from NCT visited the Wrightbus factory in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, to see the new StreetDeck Ultroliners, ahead of going into service on the long distance Pathfinder bus service between Nottingham, Burton Joyce, Lowdham and Southwell.

specification, including free Wi-Fi and USB chargers. They also boast comfier seats, space for two wheelchairs, a table on the upper deck and improved accessibility features, including hearing loops and next stop displays that all customers can see.

The new fleet is Ultra-Low Emission Bus (ULEB) accredited, with an 80% cut in nitrogen oxides emissions and lower particulate emissions.

Consultants earn industry accolade

Green Knight Sustainability Consulting has been recognised as a training centre by the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Practitioners (formerly IEMA, the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment).

The business offers training across a range of sustainability topics, with two key workshops also formally approved by ISEP – covering lifecycle assessment and double materiality assessment.

The workshops are delivered in Ilam or can be run in-house and Chamber members can get a 10% discount on the list price.

The company, based near Ashbourne, also provides sustainability consulting services from strategy development to data analysis.

Lead consultant Dr Gavin Milligan is an ISEP member and chartered environmentalist, and has held corporate roles up to board level and has taught up to postgraduate level in UK universities.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

SUPPORT, STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES FOR EXPORTERS AND IMPORTERS

Creating new links with the EU

The UK and EU have announced a package of agreements, including the UK rejoining the Erasmus+ students programme in 2027, alongside moving forward on energy market integration and trade.

The agreement to join Erasmus+ in 2027 fulfils a commitment made at the UK-EU Summit in May and will open up opportunities for young people across the country.

Leaving Erasmus+ was one of the consequences of Brexit, as access into the EU for British citizens became harder. It offers opportunities around education, training, youth, culture and sport for participants of all ages.

The Government said more than 100,000 people in the UK could benefit from the scheme in the first year alone, adding that studying abroad can boost the career prospects of students, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds.

William Bain, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Businesses will be enthusiastic about the UK’s re-entry to the Erasmus+ programme from 2027. This will allow them to maximise its full benefits for training, apprenticeships, skills, further and higher

The BCC has sent its EU reset report to Government, providing recommended solutions to many of the problems. Its top five proposals for discussions in 2026 are:

1. Negotiate a deep SPS (animal and plant products) agreement to remove export health certificates

2. Finalise UK and EU Emissions Trading Scheme linkage to exempt goods from Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms

3. Establish a youth mobility scheme

4. Secure full UK participation in SAFE –the EU’s Defence Finance Initiative

5. Enhance VAT cooperation and customs simplification to reduce trade costs

education, and exchanges. It will also provide an opportunity to shape the programme from the inside as funding is allocated for the next six years.

“The BCC has been calling for the UK to rejoin Erasmus+ for some time. It is a welcome sign

that the EU reset can deliver results for business and economic growth in the UK and EU. Both sides now need to double down on delivery in 2026 for key agreements on food checks, Emissions Trading Scheme linkage, youth experience and electricity market access.”

Meanwhile, a new survey of almost 1,000 businesses by the BCC’s Insights suggests EU trade is becoming increasingly difficult, and this year’s reset needs to continue at real pace in 2026 to deliver vital deals.

The BCC has used the data to create a business manifesto for the EU Reset as the urgency of real-world change continues to ratchet up. It identifies an increasing number of challenges as regulations continue to diverge, making it more and more difficult for traders to adapt on both sides of the Channel.

The Trade and Co-operation Agreement (TCA) was agreed on Christmas Eve in 2020 to allow tariff-free trade with the EU once Brexit took effect. But services access has been limited by rules on business mobility and only 16% of exporters think the deal is helping them to grow sales in Europe, with 54% disagreeing.

UK and Europe sign historic clean energy pact

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has signed a clean energy security pact with European allies to bolster energy security across the UK and Continent.

The deal will support new joint offshore wind projects between European countries, including Germany, Norway, France and Denmark, taking advantage of North Sea wind.

William Bain, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “It is essential for the UK’s energy security and economic growth that we co-operate more closely with our European allies to realise the full

potential of the North Sea. The commitments set out in the Hamburg Declaration will deliver on

that, allowing our businesses to work on joint projects on renewables, interconnectors and other vital energy infrastructure.

“But we must not stop there. Action is also needed to ensure the competitiveness of oil and gas extraction and refining in the UK. This is a vital part of our energy mix in an uncertain world where we face multiple geopolitical and security threats.

“The UK government must ensure that its fiscal and policy decisions in the North Sea provide some much-needed certainty to businesses, workers, and communities across the country.”

It will be easier for UK students to study in places such as Barcelona

The Sorbonne university in Paris

managing director

Fire safety firm opens ‘milestone’ base in USA

Fire safety solutions provider Ramtech has established its first international base, opening a US office in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The move reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering modern fire and safety support across the construction industry and establishing a full US supply chain.

Management said by establishing a permanent presence on the Atlantic coast, the business, which is headquartered in Nottingham, will find it easier to deliver safety solutions for contractors across the States.

James Pecz, head of North America, Middle East and Global CX at Ramtech, said: “We are proud to establish a permanent presence in the US, marking an important milestone in Ramtech’s global growth.

“This launch demonstrates our commitment not only to partners and clients across the US, but also reinforces the strength of our business

model, proven in the UK, and its ability to scale internationally.

“Our Charlotte office brings us closer to delivering safety solutions efficiently and reliably, supported by a full U.S. supply chain and national service coverage.”

Ramtech has been operating in the US for seven years, supporting construction firms including Turner, PCL and Barton Malow, as well as the maritime defence sector.

Its WES system, successfully deployed on high-profile UK projects such as the new Everton football stadium and 15 mile long Thames Tideway “super sewer”, has protected more than 350 workers on major international projects, and the company partners with over a dozen US distributors.

Most of Ramtech’s US work has been in the north and south east, and it is keen to expand across the south and Midwest from Charlotte.

EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER INTERNATIONAL TRADE COURSES

International Trade Operations and Procedures BCC

Date: 5 February

Time: 9am-12.30pm

The ITOPS qualification is a practical and relevant qualification designed to prove that candidates have the necessary skills to accurately operate the administration procedures in an international trade administration environment.

There are eight half day online workshops, and all are delivered in partnership with East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) and Fidelitas Training.

Visit: https://is.gd/Tvlrbp

Exploring new Export Markets – a roadmap for success

Date: 10 February

Time: 9am-12.30pm

This half day course explores the many options for market entry, providing guidance on key factors which may influence your choice.

Visit: https://is.gd/xtFIyV

P/OPR Inward/Outward Processing Relief

Date: 11 February (More dates available)

Time: 9am-12.30pm

Delegates will understand what is available to mitigate the additional import duty costs brought about by the changes following the UKs exit from the EU Customs Union.

Visit: https://is.gd/l0j3GY

Boosting EU E-Commerce – Understanding Duties, Documentation & Compliance

Date: 19 February

Time: 10-11am

This workshop is open to established enterprises located in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Visit: https://is.gd/n8SG0u

To see more course visit: https://is.gd/fhN4Ms

East Midlands Airport invests for the future

Improvements to critical parts of East Midlands Airport’s infrastructure are being carried out during a series of runway closures over the winter.

As part of a £120m investment programme, big upgrades to lighting, taxiways and the central apron (where passenger aircraft park) are being carried out.

Also scheduled to take place on Wednesdays throughout the winter period is general maintenance of the runway, taxiways and aprons.

The airport is conducting work normally carried out overnight during daylight hours, so it can be done safely and efficiently.

East Midlands Airport’s asset development director Brian McCoubrey said: “These winter works are not just about maintenance – they’re an investment in the airport’s future, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital hub for passengers and freight across the UK and beyond.”

L-R: Orama’s

Giorgio Koursaris, Ramtech's business unit director Bruna Pacios Esposito and James Pecz, head of North America, Middle East and Global CX at Ramtech

POLITICS

ROUNDING UP LOCAL AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Leicester mourns city councillor who served for 30 years

Tributes have been paid to Leicester City Councillor Manjula Sood MBE, who died on 24 December.

Born in 1945, Coun Sood did her postgraduate studies at Leicester University and became one of the UK’s first Asian female teachers in 1973. She taught at schools in Leicester for more than 20 years.

Following the death of her city councillor husband Paul in 1996, she stood in the byelection for his ward, going on to serve as Leicester’s first Hindu female councillor.

She was an exceptionally kind-hearted person, completely dedicated to Leicester

Coun Sood was known for championing multiculturalism – encouraging people of different faiths and backgrounds to come together for the common good. Most recently she was assistant city mayor for community cohesion.

City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “Manjula came to Leicester in 1970 and was proud to make the city her home.

“She was an exceptionally kind-hearted person, completely dedicated to Leicester – the city that she served as a councillor for almost 30 years.

“She did everything she could to break down barriers and create meaningful and lasting connections between people of all backgrounds and their communities.

“She is a huge loss to her family, the council, and the city, and will be greatly missed.”

Business rates will drive firms to drink

Ea report suggested a third of firms are worried about the cost and half are considering raising their prices.

Research by the British Chambers of Commerce showed concerns over business rates had reached their highest since the question was first asked in 2017, with hospitality, followed by the manufacturing and logistics sectors, reporting the greatest level of anxiety.

Pressure from publicans has led to to a U-turn from Government on changes to how pubs’ business rates are calculated, which will lead to lower bills for landlords.

Reform of business rates is one of the key asks in East Midlands Chamber’s Framework for Growth, its recently published landmark document outlining policy asks that would enable the region to thrive.

Worry over business rates also rose to the third biggest concern of East Midlands firms in the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey for Q4 of 2025, which also showed an increase to four out of 10 businesses in the region considering raising their prices.

• A third of firms reported concern over business rates

(49%) followed by manufacturing (44%) and logistics (43%)

• In 2024, 27% of firms said they had scaled back or cancelled premises improvements due to the burden of business rates

• In 2025, before the Budget, almost a quarter (23%) of firms said they planned to adjust prices due to business rates pressure

• Just over half of UK firms currently plan to put up prices due to rising costs.

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “Urgently addressing business rates is something we’ve been calling for and while relief for pubs is a welcome step forward and will ease some of the immense pressure on that one industry, it’s only a sticking plaster amid such high costs to keep pubs open, while other types of hospitality and other sectors still need support.

“Hotels, cafes and restaurants make up a large part of the hospitality sector but will not benefit, despite the Chancellor speaking of supporting communities, so the measures really need to be widened and not exclude venues classified outside the scope of the support package.

‘Pubs are not just a place for a pint – they are community hubs, alleviating social isolation and often the heartbeat of their communities’

Leicester City Councillor Manjula Sood MBE

4,000 jobs in store at warehouse park

The Mayor of the East Midlands has backed a new development in Nottinghamshire that could reportedly create up to 4,000 jobs.

Property and construction specialist Caddick has been granted planning permission for EM.EX Worksop, a 300-acre warehouse park covering up to 4.5 million sq ft at ground level.

It will be located east of Worksop on the Apleyhead junction of the A1, and is expected to contribute £175m in Gross Value Added (GVA) and £11.5m in business rates annually, once fully operational.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “The news of up to 4,000 extra jobs coming to Worksop is a welcome step forward for our region. Distribution hubs are a key driver of the East Midlands economy, and this scheme will further strengthen our position as a leading logistics corridor.

Key Nottinghamshire road to be upgraded

Millions of pounds is to be invested by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) in improvements to one of Nottinghamshire’s most crucial roads.

“I look forward to watching this progress over the next couple of years as it supports my goal to make our region the best place to live, work and learn.”

Sally Gillborn, chief executive of North Notts BID, said: “EM.EX Worksop is an exciting prospect for Bassetlaw, bringing increased investment to the district and the wider region. By creating hundreds of highquality jobs, it will strengthen Bassetlaw’s reputation as a strategic hub for industry, innovation and logistics, and deliver lasting economic benefits.”

Work to upgrade junctions as part of the A614/A6097 Major Road Network scheme –including Ollerton Roundabout – will begin this year and is scheduled to roll out over the next two years.

More than £43m going into the project, including £24.3m from the Department for Transport, £8.3m from Nottinghamshire County Council and £1.7m from developer contributions. EMCCA will cover the rest.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward said: “People in north Nottinghamshire have been asking for these improvements for years, and I am pleased to be investing regional funding to remove the final barriers and to start delivery –this is what EMCCA funding does best, unlocking delivery by working with others.”

“Likewise, manufacturers, logistics firms, small businesses and those with physical bricks and mortar premises are among those that will be disproportionately hit with additional costs to foot from April.

“Government continues to ask a lot of business, the level of support from Government must be reciprocal. In the East Midlands, our Quarterly Economic Survey has shown more businesses in the region reporting business rates as a top concern – now the third greatest worry after inflation and corporate taxation –while pressure to consider putting prices up has risen from three to four out of ten businesses.

“Firms need to be incentivised to invest, not burdened with unfair cost and that’s why our Framework for Growth, outlining the key asks that would enable the East Midlands to thrive, specifically sets out the need for business rates reform and it’s essential that happens.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I am pleased to see the Government is looking again at the business rates for the pub industry, many of which are facing rate increases in the tens of thousands of pounds.

“This must be done quickly to give the industry reassurance and certainty that they can continue to operate. Pubs are not just a place for a pint – they are community hubs, alleviating social isolation and often the heartbeat of their communities. I do not want to see pubs closing because of increasing costs, so I urge the Government to move at pace.”

Eastern Gateway complete

The transformation of Derby’s Eastern Gateway – on the eastern side of the city centre – is officially complete.

Delivered by Derbion and part-funded by Derby City Council through the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, the work was carried out to improve access from Derby bus station, with a new entrance to Derbion in East Street.

It has also created a new public boulevard as well as a new façade, “urban garden” and a mural from music and arts development organisation Baby People. There is also a play area.

The area has been designed to accommodate

things such as brand promotions, family-friendly events and pop-up food stalls.

Derbion managing director Beth McDonald said: “We’re confident that the newly transformed area, now named Derbion Square, will offer a welcoming and inclusive space for visitors, and we look forward to seeing its positive impact on the community.”

Council leader Councillor Nadine Peatfield said: “The transformation of this area plays a key part in better connecting different parts of our city centre, supporting our mission to create a vibrant and welcoming place to be.”

Councillor Nadine Peatfield and Beth McDonald, managing director of Derbion

Hucknall, High Street near Market Square

FEATURES

TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON ISSUES AND SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS

Dig deeper and you’ll see buying British is best

By Matt Lobb (pictured), general manager at Abiljo Attachments.

UK manufactured excavator attachments consistently outperform imports because they deliver superior durability, safety, productivity, and long term value – all critical factors for UK contractors operating under strict regulations and demanding site conditions. This article explores why choosing British made attachments are a strategic investment rather than a cost to minimise.

Contractors across construction, demolition, utilities and agriculture increasingly recognise that the “cheap now, expensive later” trap of lower cost imported attachments

can undermine productivity and profitability.

In contrast, UK manufactured excavator attachments are engineered for longevity and performance – qualities repeatedly highlighted in industry analysis and manufacturer insights.

1. SUPERIOR BUILD QUALITY AND DURABILITY

UK manufacturers typically use higher grade steels, precision engineering and more rigorous quality control processes. This results in attachments that withstand the heavy, repetitive stresses of British construction environments.

• High quality buckets with

reinforced cutting edges and teeth improve digging efficiency and reduce wear.

• Attachments built for “rigorous use” last significantly longer, reducing replacement frequency and downtime.

Cheaper imports often use lower grade materials, inconsistent welds and less rigorous testing. While they may look similar at first glance, they rarely survive long term use especially in demanding applications such as demolition, quarrying or utility trenching.

2. BETTER PERFORMANCE AND PRODUCTIVITY

Performance is where UK made attachments truly shine. Their precision engineering enables operators to work faster, more accurately, ultimately with less fuel consumption. Industry sources emphasise that:

• Well designed attachments “significantly increase productivity” by enabling faster, cleaner and more efficient work.

• Specialised tools designed for a specific application can significantly reduce task time and improve output quality.

3. COMPATIBILITY AND EASE OF USE

Modern UK attachments are designed to integrate seamlessly with the latest excavator models and quick coupler systems.

• Quick coupler technology allows operators to switch attachments rapidly without sacrificing performance.

• UK manufacturers follow strict dimensional standards, ensuring perfect fitment and reducing stress on the machine.

4.

ENHANCED SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

Safety is non negotiable on UK job sites. British made attachments are engineered to meet – and often exceed – UK and EU safety standards.

• Features such as safe quick couplers, and robust locking

systems reduce the risk of accidents.

• UK manufacturers design with regulatory compliance in mind, ensuring attachments meet administrative and safety requirements.

A single failure can cost far more than the price difference between a quality attachment and an import.

5.

LONG TERM COST SAVINGS

While UK made attachments cost more upfront, they deliver far greater lifetime value. Key cost advantages include:

• Longer lifespan due to superior materials and construction

• Reduced downtime from fewer breakages

• Lower maintenance/repair costs

• Higher resale value

Industry insights highlight that durable attachments “minimise the need for frequent replacements and repair”, improving return on investment. Cheap imports often fail early, leading to repeated purchases, lost productivity and unexpected repair bills.

6.

LOCAL SUPPORT, FASTER LEAD TIMES, CUSTOMISATION

Buying British often means:

• Faster delivery

• Readily available spare parts

• Direct access to engineers

• Custom fabrication options

UK manufacturers understand local ground conditions, machine fleets and industry needs – something overseas suppliers cannot match. Cheap imported excavator attachments may seem attractive at first glance but their hidden costs – poor durability, reduced productivity and lack of support –quickly outweigh any initial savings. When uptime and performance matter, investing in UK made attachments that are engineered to outlast isn’t just a preference – it’s a competitive advantage.

FOCUS

This month’s Focus pages take an in-depth look at the region’s MANUFACTURING SECTOR – its success stories, the struggles it faces and its hopes for the future, writes Tom Pegden.

CONFERENCE WILL PUT FOCUS ON KEY ISSUES

The 2026 East Midlands Manufacturing and Trade Conference will take place on the Loughborough University campus this spring.

Hundreds of delegates will join exhibitors and keynote speakers for the annual conference, organised by East Midlands Chamber.

Building on the Chamber’s recently published Framework for Growth, the conference will explore the best ways to drive growth in the region, to unlock trade barriers, understand new market dynamics in technology and international trade, support skills development, improve productivity and highlight supply chain opportunities.

It comes at a time of huge uncertainty for businesses, with Donald Trump’s unorthodox decision-making in Washington affecting markets and manufacturers around the world.

Through a range of speakers, panel discussions, workshops and exhibitors, the day will provide a platform to understand and discuss opportunities and challenges, supporting growth in a time which has seen major economic and political change.

The day is being held in partnership with Loughborough University and takes place in the West Park Teaching Hub from 9am-1.30pm on 24 March.

Chamber policy and representation manager Ian Bates is organising the event.

He said: “The last couple of years have been tough for many manufacturers, but the Chamber, through its day-to-day services and groups such as the East Midlands Manufacturing Network, continues to provide the support and foundations that are helping many business grow and thrive.

“The conference is part of that offering and an opportunity for people to hear about the

latest developments in industry, to network and share ideas, and to meet potential clients.”

The day’s speakers will include Jonathan Rawcliffe, inward investment lead at East Midlands Freeport and Ioan Reed-Aspley, head of corporate affairs, at East Midlands Airport.

Mr Reed-Aspley said: “As a linchpin in the UK’s international trade network located in the country’s manufacturing heartlands, we are delighted to sponsor East Midlands Chamber’s Manufacturing and Trade Conference.

“We already serve the needs of many businesses in the region with our unrivalled cargo operation, which accounted for a third of all air cargo growth in the UK last year. We have ambitious plans to build on this success, to better meet those existing needs as well as prepare for an expected surge in demand in the coming decades.

“We want to ensure that regional firms are aware of and benefit from the opportunities that our existing and future operations present.”

Visit: https://is.gd/6feCoN

The East Midlands has always had a reputation for manufacturing and engineering from giant corporates such as Caterpillar, Toyota, Samworth Brothers and Rolls-Royce to the hundreds of SMEs that supply clients in the UK and abroad – many of them Chamber members.

That list includes TQC Nottingham, an established and thriving designer and builder of precision testing equipment for manufacturers around the world.

Based just off Carlton Road, on the eastern side of the city, the business has more than 40 years’ experience, and its products are used to test everything from braking and exhaust systems on cars to medical devices and aircraft wing fuel tanks.

Over the years it has expanded into robotics and assembly automation – the sort of equipment which sit alongside its testing equipment on clients’ production lines.

‘We’re experts in leak testing – anything that a client wants to make sure doesn't leak water, oil or fuel, you name it’

Managing director and co-owner Mark Jones (pictured inset) told Business Network since he originally joined in 1983, the business had grown to 35 staff and a turnover of around £3m.

Typically its machines cost £50,000 to £1m.

During its growth journey it has been helped by some of the programmes the Chamber supports, including funding from the – now superseded – D2N2 Growth Hub Business Investment Fund which allowed it to upgrade its mechanical and electrical CAD systems.

TQC is also a long-standing member of the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN), which is led by the Chamber.

Mark said: “We make specialist machines, including complete production lines if that’s what a client wants. For instance, a few years ago we helped make the production lines for Mira showers which have a testing station to ensure every shower is super safe.

“We’re experts in leak testing – anything that a client wants to make sure doesn't leak water, oil or fuel, you name it.

“We've built systems to leak-test nuclear waste cans, for long-term storage and leak testers for swallowable cameras, for instance, that go inside the body, and insulin pumps, that are implantable.

The conference will be held at Loughborough University’s West Park Teaching Hub

L-R: Gavin Newman, Lucy Granger, Ian Harrison and Chris Lane at last year’s conference

“We’ve also done leak testers for the castings on cars so they don't leak oil or water all over your nice block paving at home.

“Just recently we’ve supplied a set of equipment that leak tests the wings for the Airbus A220 aircraft – gear that checks all the fuel tanks and hydraulic pipes that go through the wings.

“I would say we stand out from the crowd. If something requires assembly and test, then I would argue that we are better than most of the companies that we find ourselves up against.

“Something we spotted a few years ago was when people put their production lines in, the last thing they would think about was testing the thing that they’re making.

PARTNERS AIM TO FAST TRACK PLANS FOR HYDROGEN POWER SPECIALIST BUSINESS MAKING THE MOST OF ‘TESTING’ TIMES

A research and technology organisation at the forefront of manufacturing innovation is working with Loughborough University to fast track developing hydrogen powered systems for aircraft, automotive and power generation.

The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) is collaborating with EnerHy, the EPSRC Engineering Hydrogen Net Zero Centre for Doctoral Training, which is led by the university.

The research will be centred within the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering and the Department of Materials, with complementary work at MTC’s facilities at Ansty Park, Coventry.

“We realised that if they tested as they went along, there was a double benefit for them – faults wouldn’t be taken forward and they were not left waiting until the last possible moment to test their products.

“We’ve been involved in quite a lot of implantable medical devices, for instance, which were typically only tested at the end of production. The testing we've introduced ensures they take out any faulty ones during manufacturing.”

Mark said he believed UK manufacturing was still pretty robust.

“Yes, there are pressures on us at the moment,

The Wolfson School has internationally recognised strengths and the university has a fast growing hydrogen capability.

The partnership will look at challenges such as components contracting or going brittle, leaks, and the effects of hydrogen on welds, coatings and joints.

The university was a core partner in founding the MTC, which was set up to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

Its campus houses some of the most advanced equipment in Europe, helping businesses develop ideas with fewer costs and less risk.

and we’ve had a perfect storm with Brexit, COVID, wars in different parts of the world, Trumponomics, which have all caused significant headaches. But we seem to be doing quite well. I think UK manufacturing in general is doing reasonably well. Business confidence in investing might be suffering at the moment, which means that things can seem a little bit pinched, but we’ve got a full order book.”

Mark said as well as receiving help from D2N2 for the CAD upgrade, they had had grant funding, linked to the Chamber through funding it administers, for things such as upgrading to the cloud.

The company is also a keen supporter of the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN).

Mark said: “We were a founding member of the Nottingham Manufacturing Network (part of EMMN), which is a great organisation because we get to meet other like-minded people running engineering and manufacturing businesses.

“Usually, I come away from those meetings with two or three ideas which I can look into that will help the business – whether that's something to do with issues such as recruitment or getting an idea of the economic climate.

“The meetings are an opportunity for me to get outside of the business and talk to other people about different things. They are set up to help manufacturers and that is borne out by the people that actually attend.”

A fully-funded research studentship is available as part of this project, with applications open to UK candidates with a strong academic background and a passion for hydrogen technologies. Details are available on the EnerHy website.

I WANT TO MAKE, NOT JUST SELL, CLOTHING

Inese Zile (pictured), is the founder of Cotton Baby, an online retailer of high-quality, soft, organic childrenswear. Here she outlines her plans to start manufacturing her own products.

Since moving to the UK in 2006 I’ve spent most of my working life in customer service roles, and in 2022 I joined Caterpillar, where I now work alongside building Cotton Baby. My long-term dream is not only to manufacture my own organic babywear here in the UK, but also to open a shop that can employ single mums with flexible hours around their children.

I first ran a children’s clothing shop in Spain more than 20 years ago, and became aware of how many baby and children’s clothes were packed with synthetic fibres. Walking around Leicester’s high street stores today, it’s striking how little has changed, with rails still dominated by synthetics that can irritate delicate skin.

I want to make parents more aware of the benefits of organic cotton for their children and, importantly, to ensure it isn’t treated as a luxury for a few but becomes a normal, accessible choice.

At the moment, Cotton Baby is very much at the early stage, which I run solo alongside my full-time job. Turnover is still modest, and my priority is educating parents on why fabric choice matters and how organic cotton can be a

better long term investment for comfort and durability.

‘The

long-term plan is to move from buying finished garments to manufacturing my own designs in the UK’

For sourcing, I currently purchase finished products from suppliers here in the UK which are certified by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO TEX (which sets a global standard for textiles and leather), and I select each piece myself to ensure it is soft, breathable and suitable for sensitive skin.

The long-term plan is to move from buying finished garments to manufacturing my own designs in the UK – ideally in Leicester – once volumes and funding make that realistic.

Leicester’s clothing industry has an incredible heritage – this was once the city that clothed the world – but it feels like a shadow of that past, with factories closed and a lot of production shifted overseas, and some recent negative

publicity around poor labour practices.

I would love to see ethical, well paid clothing manufacturing thriving here again, but I think it will only happen if retailers and consumers are prepared to pay fair prices and if there is targeted support for good factories and small brands.

That could mean investment in modern, sustainable facilities, stronger enforcement against bad actors so reputable manufacturers can compete, and closer links between local brands, colleges and makers to develop new skills and products.

The cost of living crisis definitely makes organic babywear a harder sell because many families, understandably, look at the price tag first. Organic pieces cost more upfront, so they can be seen as a “nice to have” even though the overall organic market is still growing as people become more conscious of health and sustainability.

My way of addressing this is to frame organic cotton as a long term, hand me down

TEAM DEVELOPING ROBOTIC WELDER FOR USE IN SPACE

A team from the University of Leicester is leading work to create the UK’s first in-space robotic welder.

Scientists in the city, in partnership with welding specialist TWI, have secured funding through the UK Space Agency’s National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) to develop ISPARK – the Intelligent SPace Arc-welding Robotic Kit.

ISPARK was among 17 proposals out of 560

selected for support, winning £485,000 from a total fund of £17m.

The £560,00 project will design a robotmounted arc-welding system for in-space repair, joining and future orbital manufacturing.

Welding in space has to deal with extremes such as operating in a vacuum, microgravity, thermal instability, and the danger and intense physical demands placed on astronauts.

The ISPARK project combines the university’s

ISPARK principal investigator Dr Daniel Hao of the University of Leicester

investment rather than a one season purchase – if a sleepsuit is gentle on sensitive skin and lasts through siblings and cousins. The cost per wear can actually be lower than fast fashion alternatives.

Education around skin health, durability and waste – supported by simple, accessible pricing and starter sets – is how I hope to overcome those barriers.

Like many small businesses I am having to be extremely cautious under current economic conditions. I keep fixed costs as low as possible, rely on my full time role to underpin the business, and focus on organic, relationship based marketing and community partnerships rather than large advertising budgets.

The uncertainty means I can’t plan for rapid scaling, so I am concentrating on building trust, testing low cost channels, and only increasing stock or spending when there is clear demand, which I hope will create a stronger foundation for the future.

expertise in AI-powered robotics, autonomous control, space engineering and weld modelling with TWI’s expertise in welding and materials joining.

The University of Leicester has been involved in more than 90 space missions over six decades.

Principal investigator Dr Daniel Zhou Hao, works in the University of Leicester School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences.

He said: “By combining Leicester’s strengths in AI robotics and space engineering with TWI’s world-leading welding expertise, we are developing an enabling technology that could redefine how large structures are built and maintained in orbit.”

MORE CHALLENGES TO FACE – SO LET’S GET ON WITH IT

Sue Tilley (pictured), who chairs Leicestershire Business Voice, considers manufacturing in the year ahead.

As we move into the new year, manufacturing businesses are entering a period that will require focus, realism and confidence in equal measure.

The challenges facing the sector are well known. Costs remain high, skills are in short supply and uncertainty continues to shape decision-making. Added to this is a more volatile global backdrop, with ongoing geopolitical tensions, fragile supply routes and shifting trade conditions contributing to a climate where longterm planning is increasingly complex.

Yet there is also a growing sense that manufacturers are adjusting once again and preparing for a year of measured progress.

‘For many firms, the year ahead will be about selective investment rather than large-scale expansion’

What stands out to me is the practical mindset of businesses across the region. Manufacturers are not waiting for perfect conditions, domestically or internationally, nor for definitive policy solutions. Instead, they are taking stock of what they can control and acting accordingly, even as global uncertainty continues to influence markets, customer demand and investment decisions.

For many firms, the year ahead will be about selective investment rather than large-scale expansion. Productivity will take precedence over headcount growth. Capital spending will be carefully targeted, focused on improving efficiency, quality and resilience rather than pursuing headline growth alone. This measured approach reflects not only domestic pressures but also the need to remain agile in the face of fluctuating global demand and cost volatility.

Innovation will play an important role, but in a practical and applied way. Businesses are investing in automation, digital systems and process improvement where these deliver clear operational benefits. Leicester and Leicestershire are well placed in this respect, with a strong knowledge-based economy and access to innovation deployment through Space Park Leicester, Charnwood Campus, Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park and HORIBA MIRA Technology Park.

These centres support manufacturers in applying new technologies directly into production and supply chains, including life sciences manufacturing where medicines are already being produced at scale.

Skills will remain one of the defining challenges in 2026. Many manufacturers are shifting their focus away from recruitment alone and towards retention and retraining. Apprenticeships, inhouse training and closer collaboration with education providers are becoming essential tools in securing future capability, particularly as competition for skilled labour remains intense.

Supply chains will also continue to evolve. Recent global disruption has reinforced the importance of resilience. Manufacturers are strengthening local and regional relationships, reducing exposure to single-source risks and making better use of the region’s logistics expertise and central location. This approach supports both competitiveness and greater insulation from international shocks.

It would be unrealistic to ignore the structural challenges the region faces, including the ongoing implications of Leicestershire not being part of the East Midlands devolution deal. However, manufacturers in Leicester and Leicestershire have a long history of adapting to change. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty as well as local constraint, they will do what they have always done. They will roll up their sleeves and get on with the job.

Concept art of the robotmounted arc-welding system

Credit: ISPARK

MAIN PICTURE:

L-R: Detective Sergeant Yassin Desai, Chief Constable David Sandall, and DMU designers Angela Davies and Kay Radford

INSET:

GREEN LIGHT FOR BLUE LIGHT HIJAB

Aquick-release hijab for female police officers on the frontline has gone into production with orders coming in from around the country.

The design features an innovative magnetic safety quick-release system that allows the lower part to detach instantly if pulled during a confrontation – preventing the risk of strangulation while maintaining modesty and professional appearance.

INNOVATION ACCOLADE FOR DMU RESEARCHERS

Researchers at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) have been named among the best in the world for textile innovation.

The Textile Engineering and Materials (TEAM) research group was named a finalist in the Innovate Textiles Awards 2025.

The group, led by Professor Jinsong Shen, earned its place on the international shortlist for its work developing technologies for textile coloration and enzyme-based waste recycling. Their work could help shift the industry towards a more circular economy.

The Blue Light Hijab, created by Leicestershire Police and designers at De Montfort University worn by PC Hafsah Abba-Gana  An autonomous Caterpillar soil compactor

The awards were organised by World Textile Information Network (WTiN), a global authority on textile innovation and technology.

Prof Shen now leads a collaboration with industry partners including Camira Fabrics, The Woolmark Company, Fox Brothers, Matter, Wilson Knowles, DyeRecycle and Roberts Recycling to scale up the process and explore its industrial applications.

The Blue Light Hijab has been created by Leicestershire Police in partnership with designers at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) and is getting interest not only from other police forces but emergency services organisations, paramedics, the NHS and the private sector.

Leicestershire Chief Constable David Sandall said: “It is going to make a real difference not only to our officers but there are so many workspaces where this could be applied.

CATERPILLAR IS DIGGING ITS

AUTOMATED MACHINERY

Global digger manufacturer Caterpillar has launched new AI and autonomous innovations as part of its drive to build the next generation of heavy industrial vehicles.

The business, which has its UK headquarters in Desford, Leicestershire, said it was working on transforming machines into intelligent, connected systems that would help customers “build and power the world’s critical infrastructure”.

Its machines are used in everything from mining to road and bridge building, to building data centres and energy systems.

Over the last two decades it has put $30bn –more than £22bn – into research and development around the world, and has plans to increase investment in digital and technology by 2.5 times through to 2030.

It has been building autonomous vehicles for

decades to use in hostile mining environments. It said it was putting $25m – about £18.6m –into its workforce to carry out the work, while its new Cat AI Assistant would be able to help customers to stay one step ahead of the big jobs they needed completing.

“It is an incredible achievement, and the design is deceptively simple – it’s not until you speak to the team involved that you realise how many wearer trials, combat trials and design iterations it has gone through.

“This hijab is the result of years of collaboration, testing and expert design, and we’re incredibly proud that it has now gone into production.

“The work with DMU has been exceptional and will make a real difference to Muslim women who want to serve their communities.”

Detective Sergeant Yassin Desai first came up with the idea 20 years ago. Over the years he tried to find a manufacturer and studied designs from forces around the world before teaming up with DMU’s Dr Angela Davies and technician Kay Radford in 2022.

‘We completed the combat trials at Enderby with female officers wearing it and it held up’

DS Desai, who is the founder of Leicestershire Police Association of Muslim Police (AMP) and sits on the national organisation, said: “It’s actually taken years to develop properly. We completed the combat trials at Enderby with female officers wearing it and it held up.

“The bottom part was able to detach, and the officer was able to keep her dignity. No one else has been able to make these: only DMU.

“For the first time ever, DMU has set up manufacturing in the UK for this. It’s amazing to think after three years of research and development, we have got the design of this right, and we’re taking it forward together. It’s a great product, it’s safe and protects Muslim women’s dignity.”

With the new hijab now in production, forces across the country have begun placing orders, and there has already been interest from international emergency services exploring similar solutions.

The project originated through QUIDs – Quick Innovation Developers, DMU’s rapid-innovation programme connecting university researchers with organisations seeking specialist technical solutions.

VEHICLE CONVERTER IS CHAMBER PARTNER

East Midlands Chamber has announced Mackworth Vehicle Conversions as a strategic partner.

The business – part of Motus Vehicle Solutions, a division of Motus Group UK –carries out vehicle body conversions for fleet operators across the UK, in sectors such as utilities, construction, highways and logistics.

The firm has been part of the Derby business community since the 1960s and employs more than 60 people across design, engineering, production and customer support with all manufacturing taking place at its Derby facility.

Over the last 18 months, the business has been developing ‘Streamline Pro’ (see pages 34), a standardised range of light commercial vehicle bodies that aims to speed up quoting, approvals and build time.

Becoming a Chamber strategic partner will enable Mackworth to engage with the Chamber’s 4,000-strong membership across the region and influence the shaping of policy when it meets political leaders.

An autonomous Caterpillar bulldozer

The business has also announced a collaboration with global chip maker NVIDIA.

Caterpillar chief executive Joe Creed said:

“As AI moves beyond data to reshape the physical world, it is unlocking new opportunities for innovation — from job sites and factory floors to offices.

“Caterpillar is committed to solving our customers’ toughest challenges by leading with advanced technology in our machines and every aspect of business. Our collaboration

with NVIDIA is accelerating that progress like never before.”

Global sales were $64.8bn – more than £48bn –in 2024.

Its Leicestershire assembly site is dedicated to the assembly of small construction machines –backhoe loaders and compact wheel loaders –typically used on building and construction sites.

General manager Andrew Kent said: “Partnering with the Chamber brings us closer to a network of organisations who care about the strength of the East Midlands economy.

“It gives us the space to champion our sector, learn from different industries, and make connections that support growth across the region.

“We are looking forward to becoming more involved in the business community and working together on the opportunities the Chamber creates.”

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Mackworth Vehicle Conversions is a long-established Derby employer and contributor to the city’s economy.

“Derby has a proud history of innovative design, production and manufacture so to be part of that story is worthy of recognition.

“I’m pleased to welcome Mackworth Vehicle Conversions as a strategic partner of the Chamber and look forward to working more closely together.”

Mackworth Vehicle Conversions general manager Andrew Kent

From shortages to strategy - How SMEs are rethinking apprenticeships as the answer to skills development

By Helen Kennedy-Holleman (pictured), head of higher technical education at De Montfort University (DMU).

Across the East Midlands, many small and medium-sized businesses are starting to look at skills development differently.

Persistent recruitment challenges, coupled with rising competition for experienced staff, are prompting employers to think beyond short-term hiring and towards more sustainable ways of building capability.

For some time, apprenticeships have felt slightly out of reach for many SMEs. Not because employers lacked interest, but because the system itself often appeared geared towards larger organisations with specialist HR teams and the capacity to navigate complex funding rules.

That picture is now shifting. New reforms coming into effect this year are opening up fresh opportunities for East Midlands businesses to address skills gaps in a way that is structured, affordable and aligned with day-to-day work.

Employers across the region continue to report difficulties recruiting people with the right skills. In sectors such as healthcare,

digital, engineering and professional services, the challenge is not a lack of demand, but a shortage of people who are ready to step into skilled roles.

At the same time, many businesses are placing greater emphasis on developing their existing workforce. Supporting progression, building leadership capability and retaining experienced staff are becoming just as important as attracting new talent.

So, what does this shift towards a more strategic approach to skills mean in practice for SMEs? Three points stand out.

1. Apprenticeships now support progression as well as recruitment While apprenticeships are often associated with entry-level roles, many SMEs are increasingly using higher and degree apprenticeships to develop existing employees. These programmes enable staff to build professional, technical or leadership skills while continuing to work, making them particularly relevant for businesses looking to strengthen capability from within rather than rely solely on recruitment.

2. The funding model is more accessible for smaller employers Eligible SMEs no longer need to contribute the 5% co-investment towards apprenticeship training and assessment costs for apprentices under-25. Combined with existing National Insurance relief, this significantly reduces the financial commitment involved and makes apprenticeships a more realistic option for businesses of all sizes.

3. Apprenticeships work best as a partnership

SMEs tend to see the greatest value from apprenticeships when they work with providers who understand their sector and business context, and who can help shape programmes around real roles and workforce needs. At De Montfort University Leicester (DMU), the focus is on higher and degree apprenticeships, working collaboratively with employers across areas including healthcare and management to support both new talent and existing staff development.

Taken together, these changes are influencing how apprenticeships are being used by SMEs, moving them away from a narrow focus on entry-level recruitment and towards a broader role within workforce

planning. In practice, this means employers are increasingly using apprenticeships to address specific skills pressures in their sector and to support progression for people already within their organisation.

DMU already works closely with employers to develop courses. For example, our range of healthcare apprenticeships support staff to progress into more specialised or senior roles while remaining in employment, helping employers build capability and improve retention at the same time.

The same collaborative model underpins management development. The Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship is increasingly used by SMEs to support new and aspiring managers, providing structured development for people stepping into leadership roles, often for the first time. By combining academic learning with practical workplace application, it offers a way to develop confident, capable managers without taking people out of the business.

This partnership-led approach is also shaping new apprenticeship routes. For example, De Montfort University is working with The Mead Educational Trust as one of the first learning providers to launch a new teaching apprenticeship programme for primary school teachers.

What makes apprenticeships effective for SMEs is not funding alone, but how they are used. When programmes are shaped around real roles, business priorities and future skills needs, apprenticeships become a practical tool for building resilience rather than a short-term fix.

For employers thinking about how to build capacity, improve retention and prepare for future growth, this is a timely moment to take a fresh look at what apprenticeships can offer.

Neuro-inclusion is not a policy: It is how skills, communication and innovation actually work

When organisations talk about skills shortages and employee retention issues, the focus is often on pipelines: attracting talent, training faster and improving productivity. What is discussed far less is how many people are excluded not because they lack skills, but because the way work is designed makes learning and performing unnecessarily hard.

For neurodivergent people, including, but not limited to, autistic, ADHD, dyslexic and dyspraxic employees, this difficulty is often invisible. Many compensate through masking: the sustained effort to suppress natural behaviours, manage sensory input, decode unspoken expectations and “perform normality” at work. Masking carries a high cognitive cost. Over time, it reduces capacity for learning,

problem-solving and creativity, and is a significant contributor to burnout and disengagement.

Understanding cognitive load is therefore central to effective skills development. When employees are spending energy interpreting vague instructions, navigating inconsistent communication or managing environments that overwhelm their senses, they have less capacity left to learn, collaborate and innovate, and many ultimately leave.

WHY TRADITIONAL TRAINING FALLS SHORT

Much workplace training assumes that clarity comes from standardisation. In practice, uniform delivery often increases cognitive load. Dense slides, rapid verbal explanations and abstract examples privilege those who process information quickly and comfortably in those formats, and disadvantage everyone else.

Neuro-inclusive training focuses instead on how people engage with information. This includes clear structure, predictable formats, materials shared in advance, and multiple ways to interact with content. Crucially, it also recognises that learning is most effective when people can experiment, reflect and apply knowledge in context. This is where experiential and game-based learning approaches are particularly effective. Clear rules, defined roles, immediate feedback and psychological safety allow participants to focus on thinking and problem-solving rather than self-monitoring. Learning through structured play makes processes visible and accessible, especially for those who struggle with abstract or socially ambiguous environments.

COMMUNICATION IS A SKILLS ISSUE, NOT A SOFT ONE

Neuro-inclusion does not sit only within training rooms. It runs through everyday communication at every level of an organisation. Many workplace difficulties arise not from lack of ability, but from unclear expectations, inconsistent feedback and reliance on unwritten rules.

Simple, proactive practices make a significant difference:

• Making expectations explicit rather than assumed

• Following verbal discussions with written summaries

• Giving feedback focused on tasks and outcomes, not personality

• Allowing time for processing and questions

• Training managers to recognise overload and early signs of burnout

These adjustments are low-cost and benefit entire teams, not just neurodivergent employees.

INCLUSION ACROSS THE EMPLOYEE LIFECYCLE

Neuro-inclusion must be embedded from hiring through to leadership and safeguarding. Recruitment processes that prioritise social performance over job-relevant skills exclude capable candidates. Progression pathways that reward visibility rather than contribution disadvantage those who work differently. Safeguarding systems that rely on self-advocacy miss those most affected by

By Marilla Bianco (pictured), director and neuro-inclusion specialist (skills and employment),

CIC

masking. Organisations that address this see better retention, stronger engagement and healthier teams.

THE

INNOVATION

CASE

Neurodivergent employees often bring strengths in systems thinking, pattern recognition, creativity and unconventional problem-solving. These perspectives are not optional extras. In a world defined by rapid change, complexity and uncertainty, businesses need innovation to survive.

But innovation does not thrive in environments where people all bring the same perspective.

Reducing unnecessary cognitive load frees up the capacity required for divergent thinking, the kind that challenges assumptions and generates new solutions.

A GENERATIONAL SHIFT EMPLOYERS CANNOT IGNORE

Younger workers entering the labour market are more informed about neurodiversity and less willing to tolerate environments that demand constant selfsuppression. They care about psychological safety, clarity and inclusion and they expect organisations to care too.

The shift is already happening. The question is whether employers are ready.

Neuro-inclusive practice is no longer a niche concern or a compliance exercise. It is a core business skill, shaping how people learn, how teams communicate and how organisations innovate in a rapidly changing world.

• Leadership & Management (ILM)

• AI for Business & Creative Industries

• Cyber Security & Digital Skills

• Employability & Professional Development

• Fashion & Textiles – Design, Production & Business

• Bespoke Employer & Corporate Training BUILT FOR ADULT LEARNERS

Off-the-Job Delivery • Employer Workshops • Assessment & Recruitment

Entrepreneurs

Skill

Upskill

Reskill

Residency Skills Workshops

• Limited Jobs

• Skills Gaps Digital

• Change

• No Industry Access

• Work Placements

• Live Projects

• Employer Partnerships

• Work-Ready Graduates

• Practical Skills

• Confidence

• AI Awareness

DIGITAL SKILLS FOR

• Cyber Security

• AI Integration

• Digital Transformation

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

THE CUTTING-EDGE SECTOR THAT IMPACTS THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS

Tech festival will showcase region’s experts

Some of the region’s biggest businesses are backing East Mids Tech Week, which takes from 15-19 June.

The week-long festival will have headline and fringe events designed around core economic clusters – from engineering right through to nuclear infrastructure and space innovation. All the events will be free to attend.

Louise Holland, managing director of tech week founder Holland Alexander, said: “We wanted to create an electric festival that drives attention to those incredible business assets based in the region which are creating global tech ingenuity and have the potential to fuel economic growth.

“Having delivered the successful Venturefest East Midlands programme, combined with our management of tech festivals in the United States we are in the right place to be an instigator of this type of festival product for the region.”

The festival will launch on 15 June at Vaillant Live, Derby, with an investment show for businesses

Ai Integration: NetMonkeys managing director Nick Gall

looking for R&D, tech or innovation funding. It will include investor and BBC One The Apprentice team leader Mike Soutar discussing investment trends and how to close a deal.

Forging Ahead, a coalition of 15 Midlands university partners led by Loughborough University and Midlands Innovation, is supporting the show. Its manager, Rajinder Bhuhi, said: “It’s a fantastic chance

‘It’s a fantastic chance to showcase spinouts, connect with investors, and strengthen existing relationships’

to showcase spinouts, connect with investors, and strengthen existing relationships while building new ones across the region’s innovation ecosystem.”

Vaillant Live will also host an AI tech and creative tech event, showing off the latest in technical advancement for product design and client service developments.

Nick Gall, managing director of Nottingham-based NetMonkeys,

Upskill staff to combat threats

Scott Marshall, teaching head of department for computer science at West Nottinghamshire College explains why businesses must upskill staff to protect their IT systems from cyber threats.

“Every organisation, big or small, relies on data. Protecting that data is no longer optional – it’s essential. Cyber security teams are the frontline defenders against increasingly sophisticated threats, and businesses need skilled people who can respond quickly and effectively. With cyber-attacks rising across all sectors, the cost of underprepared teams can be severe – from financial loss and operational downtime to reputational damage.”

BUILDING STRONGER TECHNICAL TEAMS THROUGH APPLIED LEARNING

“What sets the college apart is its practical, industryaligned approach to cyber training. Our strength lies in blending deep technical knowledge with real-

world experience. Apprentices won’t just learn the theory; they’ll work hands-on with tools, threats, and security controls that mirror what employers use.

“For businesses, this means apprentices and staff are ready to contribute immediately – improving system security, supporting compliance requirements, and strengthening internal processes.”

WHAT MAKES AN EFFECTIVE CYBER PROFESSIONAL?

“Curiosity and persistence are key. Cyber roles often involve solving complex problems under pressure. If a member of staff enjoys troubleshooting, analysing patterns, or thinking critically, they may be an excellent candidate for cyber upskilling.”

The college offers the cyber security technician apprenticeship (Level 3) – an 18-month programme designed to equip learners with the skills to monitor threats, implement security controls, and strengthen organisational resilience.”

which is curating two panels during the event, said: “There is a real energy in the East Midlands tech scene, and this festival will finally provide the national and international spotlight our incredible innovators deserve.

“The future belongs to businesses that don't just adopt AI, but integrate it strategically.”

emtechweek.com

Scott Marshall, teaching head of department for computer science at West Nottinghamshire College

BUSINESS SUPPORT

THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES FROM OUR KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS

Law firm supports team behind football safety app

Shakespeare Martineau has become official legal partner of the new Football Safety App, which is backed by former England and Leicester City striker Emile Heskey.

Innovation award for Banner Jones

Banner Jones has won the best innovation award at the LawNet Awards 2025, in recognition of its work transforming the conveyancing process through a fully digital service.

The firm said its use of biometric ID checks, AIpowered search reports and interactive quote brochures has improved transaction speed, accuracy and client satisfaction.

Handling more than 3,500 conveyancing matters annually, Banner Jones identified inefficiencies within the traditional process so decided to offer a fully digital client journey – without the need for clients to post or deliver paper documents in person.

The firm said the system was reducing delays and creating time savings for clients and staff.

It said 90 per cent of clients now use digital onboarding, and file opening times have been reduced from days to minutes.

The LawNet Awards, which took place in Newport, South Wales, celebrate firms that push boundaries and deliver meaningful transformation across 10 categories judged by an independent panel of sector experts and consultants.

Richard Joy, head of residential property at Banner Jones, said: “Our digital transformation has simplified a complex process for thousands of clients, and we’re incredibly proud to see those efforts acknowledged on a national stage.”

Emile is the face of the app, which has been designed to tackle what he describes as an escalating abuse crisis in football.

The Leicester lad, who won 62 caps and played more than 500 top flight matches, says abuse in the game was now “constant, personal and inescapable”.

He said it targeted players regardless of ethnicity or sex, as well as managers, referees, commentators, club staff and their families.

He said: “This is the deterrent football has been missing. When people know there is accountability, behaviour changes.

“We need the whole of football to take this seriously. We need one trusted system that fans believe in, that clubs can use and that gives authorities the information they need. This is not about blaming the game. It is about protecting it.”

The Football Safety App is supported by the legal expertise of Shakespeare Martineau. Stephen Scott, partner and client lead for sports sector legal work at the 12-office law firm, said the partnership was a natural fit.

He said: “The app’s mission to protect fans, players and staff from abuse and unsafe behaviour closely aligns with our core values of authenticity, collaboration, trust and bravery. As a firm, we will fight for what is right.”

The app is said to be a world-first platform that enables supporters, players, staff, officials and families to report abuse instantly and anonymously, wherever it occurs. It captures reports from grounds, concourses, pubs, fan zones and bars, as well as on public transport, including trains, where matchday behaviour can impact passengers and rail staff.

Shakespeare Martineau will be responsible for ensuring sponsorship, contract and copyright legal requirements are met, and helping with prosecutions where clubs require extra legal support.

Nottingham-based Stephen Scott first became aware of the project through his association with Heskey. He said: “I’ve known the team at Cayson Global, the developers behind the Football Safety App, for a number of years, so when the team asked me to get involved, it was an easy decision.”

Every submission made through the app will be sent to a 24-hour control room, where analysts assess reports, filter out misuse and escalate genuine cases to clubs.

‘The app will be free to download and use and will check users into games on arrival and will also offer rewards’

It gathers real time data, trends and behavioural patterns, creating an evidence base that football authorities have never previously had access to. The aim is to roll it out in Europe and work closely with UEFA and FIFA. The app will be free to download and use and will check users into games on arrival and will also offer rewards.

Participating clubs will contribute a small monthly subscription and receive detailed insights that help them identify hotspots, routes, fixtures or environments where intervention is required.

Stephen Scott of Shakespeare Martineau

Richard Joy of Banner Jones

MAIN PICTURE: How the app will look

Emile Heskey

MHA acquires Dubai-based audit practices

MHA has agreed to acquire audit practice Moore Stephens LLC and tax and consulting services firm Moore Stephens Consulting LLC, which are both headquartered in Dubai.

Acquisition of the businesses –collectively known as MS UAE – is consistent with MHA’s strategy of pursuing opportunities that enhance its international presence.

Established in 1999, MS UAE has grown into one of the leading professional accounting practices in the region, providing audit, tax and advisory services to clients across industries including financial services, manufacturing, construction, real estate, logistics, oil and gas, trading groups and government.

It operates from Dubai with branch offices in Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Global Market, Jebel Ali Free

Zone, Sharjah and Hamriyah Free Zone and is approved to provide services across all major free zones in the country. Both firms will rebrand to MHA.

‘Strategic

M&A

continues

to be a key enabler of our growth aspirations’

The business is led by managing partner Farad Lakdawala and has three partners in total, all of whom will remain with MHA following completion. In all it has 95 staff and its projected revenues for 2025 were £6.5m. MHA expects to pay £7.4m under the deal.

MHA chief executive Rakesh Shaunak said: “Strategic M&A continues to be a key enabler of our growth aspirations.

“Following the acquisition of BTSEE, the intended acquisition of MS UAE is another step forward in building a larger organisation and an international platform that enhances client service, strengthens our sector capabilities and creates opportunities for our people.

“MS UAE is a high-quality, wellestablished practice with strong cultural alignment, and we look forward to updating the market as we progress toward completion."

Dains reports strong quarter results

Dains Corporate Finance has delivered another strong quarter of UK mid-market M&A activity, reinforcing its position as a corporate finance advisor.

The third quarter of 2025 saw it continue its dealmaking momentum and secure national and regional recognition in Experian’s MarketIQ rankings.

Nationally, Dains achieved 16th place, and the firm rose to fourth place in the Midlands (up from seventh in 2024) with 24 completed deals. In Scotland, Dains was placed ninth with five transactions.

After breaking into the UK’s top 20 in the first three months of 2025, the firm has continued to climb and also earned recognition at TheBusinessDesk.com’s East Midlands Rainmaker Awards 2025, where it was shortlisted across four categories.

Headline transactions included advising Derbyshire-based Core Control Solutions on its successful sale to Ipsum Group, the IK Partners-backed specialist engineering services provider.

Roy Farmer, corporate finance partner at Dains, said: “The quarter’s Experian rankings demonstrate the strength, depth and increasing geographic reach of our corporate finance capability.

“Our teams have delivered high-quality outcomes across a diverse range of sectors - helping businesses realise value, secure investment and accelerate growth.

“As we move into Q4, our pipeline remains strong, and we look forward to continuing to support ambitious organisations across the UK.”

Dains is ranked 29th in the National Accountancy Age ranking by firm size and was the fastest-growing firm within the surveyed top 100 accountancy firms in the UK.

The team is now more than 1,000 people strong, including 120 partners and directors with offices throughout the UK.

MHA chief executive Rakesh Shaunak

Roy Farmer, corporate finance partner at Dains

T:  0115 947 5662

E:  enquiries@higson-accountants.co.uk

W:  higson-accountants.co.uk

Skills event is opportunity for all

Businesses in and around Chesterfield hoping to recruit and develop staff are being invited to meet future talent and hear about funded training opportunities at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference.

The 10th annual conference takes place at Chesterfield College on Thursday, 12 February, during

‘For the past decade, this conference has been a catalyst for collaboration between employers, educators and training providers’

National Apprenticeship Week. It will be a chance for employers to meet students studying in areas such as property and construction, manufacturing and engineering, digital and business studies.

Students at the college will play

a big part in the event, capturing video and taking photos, joining presentations and roundtable discussions and helping with the catering.

Attendees will also have a chance to learn how to access

funded training for apprentices who are under 25, and find out about new short courses in AI, engineering and digital skills, which start this April.

There will also be a chance to tour the college’s new Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences Centre, which opens this year, with modern equipment and training spaces designed to support the next generation of engineers and life science professionals.

Diane Beresford, chair of Chesterfield Skills Partnership Board and deputy chief executive of East Midlands Chamber, will close the event.

She said: “For the past decade, this conference has been a catalyst for collaboration between employers, educators and training providers. Together, we’ve built a strong foundation for skills development in Chesterfield and north Derbyshire.

College celebrates students’ success

Leicester-based SIRM College has seen 195 students complete a HND in business, which was delivered in partnership with East Sussex College Group.

The college held a ceremony to celebrate students’ achievements, and the determination and strength of the partnership which supported their academic journey.

CEO Junaid Ellahi congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to continue building confidence and advancing towards their academic and career goals. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting students beyond graduation.

SIRM College principal Professor Charlotte Fletcher-Morgan commended the graduates for their consistency, discipline and hard work, noting that their success and said their achievements were a testament to SIRM College’s mission – to provide a cohesive, student-centred educational experience that enables learners to progress confidently into the next stage of their academic and professional lives.

“As we look to the future, our focus is on creating even more opportunities for young people to thrive and for businesses to access the talent they need to grow. By working in partnership, we can ensure our local economy remains vibrant and competitive for years to come.”

Book tickets at: https://is.gd/yKYP5K

Krafting solutions to sexual harassment

Human resource specialist Kraft HR Consulting has partnered with PCDC to launch a new service to help stamp out sexual harassment in the workplace, supporting employers following the introduction of the Worker Protection Act 2023.

The law places a bigger duty on employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of staff. A forthcoming change will also require employers to eradicate harassment from people outside a business such as clients, customers and patients.

Failure to act could lead to higher compensation awards and potential refusals from insurers to cover legal costs.

The team at Kraft HR said there had been a big rise in sexual harassment grievances in recent months, including complaints by women about women, highlighting that sexual harassment can take unexpected forms, such as asking intrusive questions about a colleague's sex life.

The service provides tailored training, survey-led risk assessments, and 12 months of expert support to help organisations meet legal requirements and protect their staff.

Liz Willett is a director at Kraft HR Consulting

The Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference will take place during National Apprenticeship Week 2026

The Royal Building on the corner of Victoria Street and Corn Market, in Derby city centre, has been bought by Cavendish & London Property Group.

The deal was described by the new owner as one of the most significant privately led regeneration moves in the East Midlands in recent months.

The property group said it signalled “a bold commitment” to urban renewal, heritage preservation, and long-term economic growth in the region, with plans now underway to turn the building into a “flagship asset”.

It comes as Derby city centre sees increased investor attention, driven by its affordability and connectivity, and by demand for highquality mixed-use space. Detailed plans for the building will be unveiled this year.

Cavendish & London Property Group was founded and is led by regeneration specialist Atish Parmar, and has built a reputation for turning overlooked and underutilised buildings into high-performing, community-focused assets.

Atish said: “The Royal Building is a landmark. Our vision is to respect its heritage while unlocking its full commercial potential for the next generation.

“We believe the East Midlands is one of the most under-appreciated regions in UK property.

“This project reinforces our belief that thoughtful regeneration can deliver strong returns while genuinely improving places and lives.

“Our intention is to get people back into the city centre and we are helping other optimistic contributors to ensure collaborative private and public sector investments will ensure our high streets are taking the step we all want to see.”

Boathouse to open with new operator on board

Amulti-million-pound boathouse at Kings Mill Reservoir in North Nottinghamshire, is set to open this spring.

The building – which includes a restaurant and facilities to support water sports – was completed in late 2024 as part of Ashfield District Council’s Towns Deal programme and an operator has now been found. The new operator will invest £316,000 at the site over five years.

‘Our vision is for the boathouse to become a flagship building within Ashfield’

Councillor Rachel Madden, executive lead member for finance, revenues and benefits, said:

“Our vision is for the boathouse to become a flagship building within Ashfield – somewhere people can come to eat and drink, amid the tranquil setting of the reservoir, and a place for local

people to enjoy a range of water sports.

“Of course, we had hoped it would be open before now and we are disappointed by how long it has taken to reach this point, but we finally have an agreement, and we’re excited about it opening next spring.”

Great Glen gets four new homes

Four family homes are set to be built in Great Glen, Leicestershire, after planning permission was granted, supported by planning, design and development consultancy Marrons.

The homes have been designed by Design Studio Architects (DSA), and will sit on the corner of Station Road and London Road.

There will be two four-bedroom homes and two three-bedroom homes, with architectural elements such as gabled dormer windows, open porches and brickwork to complement the village’s character. The scheme replaces plans for a number of smaller homes.

Marrons planning director Sachin Parmar, who led the application, said: “This is an excellent example of evidence-led planning delivering real benefits for communities.

‘These homes combine thoughtful design with sustainability and biodiversity improvement’

Marrons has helped gain planning permission for four family homes in Great Glen, Leicestershire

“By replacing smaller, impractical house types with high-quality family homes, we’re creating a development that strengthens Great Glen’s role as a rural centre, supports local services and enhances the village’s character. These homes combine thoughtful design with sustainability and biodiversity improvements, setting a benchmark for attractive and future-proof rural development.”

DSA architect Claire Stephens said: “As the architects for the original planning permission, we worked closely with the client, Marrons and the wider consultation team to deliver a revised scheme that meets the client’s requirements while enhancing housing provision for Great Glen.

“The larger plots provide spacious family living and the private amenity space and outlook for all properties delivers quality living accommodation.

“The attention to detail in the external design and the careful consideration of the scale and massing of each plot ensures the properties sit harmoniously within the site and the wider context of the village.”

The Royal Building in Derby Landmark given a new lease of life

Kings Mill Reservoir boathouse

Making a Grand entrance

‘The Vauxhall Grandland Electric is attractively priced, looks good and is a no-nonsense family SUV’

FACTFILE

MODEL

Vauxhall Grandland Electric

PRICE OTR

From £36,895

PERFORMANCE

Top speed: 108 miles per hour 0-60 mph: 9.2 seconds

POWER

212 BHP

RANGE

Up to 320 miles – 20-80% charge 25 mins

Journalist Nick Jones tests the latest offering from Vauxhall, the Grandland Electric.

Designed to do a job rather than provide thrills behind the wheel, the Grandland Electric represents Vauxhall’s continue push towards full electrification across its range.

At present it is the brand’s flagship battery-electric SUV offering, using a 73kWh battery paired with a single electric motor, producing 212 horsepower.

Vauxhall claim that the Grandland has a driving range of up to 320 miles and a journey down the motorway leads me to suggest this range could well be possible. Even then, a bigger battery is due which might be able to offer an extra 100 miles or so of range.

The electric motor and frontwheel drive layout ensure smooth progress, especially around town.

On the motorway, the Grandland is presently quiet and the ride cosseting. Wind noise is minimal, and the seats are very comfortable. I have a certain driving style, and overtaking manoeuvres do require a bit more space than most EVs, such is the mild-mannered acceleration.

The interior is practical and spacious, with a large central touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument cluster creating a modern driving environment.

The Vauxhall Grandland Electric is attractively priced, looks good and is a no-nonsense family SUV. It trades outright excitement for comfort, practicality and efficient fuss-free motoring. It’s not the most engaging or fastest in its class, but with a spacious interior, decent range and user-friendly tech make it a competitive choice for anyone transitioning to electric SUVs.

THE LAST WORD

In his first column for Business Network, Chamber president Dr Cham Kang highlights the ongoing importance of the region’s manufacturing industry.

Manufacturing will be the heart of our economic renaissance, blending heritage with innovation to create a region buzzing with opportunity.

And the East Midlands is proving that the future of making things is brighter than ever.

This region has always been a powerhouse of British industry. From the engineering giants of Derbyshire, the textile mills of Leicestershire and the industrial creativity of Nottinghamshire, its DNA is steeped in innovating, making and building.

Now, this proud tradition is being reimagined for a new era.

The East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN), led by the Chamber, has become a central force in this transformation.

By uniting manufacturers across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, the network provides a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing and growth.

Businesses are tapping into specialist advice, financial support and peer-to-peer learning, ensuring that all manufacturers irrespective of size can compete globally.

As the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Derbyshire continues to shine as a hub for advanced engineering. Rolls-Royce and Toyota are anchoring the region’s reputation; local suppliers and SMEs are flourishing by feeding into global supply chains.

Manufacturers are embracing green engineering, investing in low-carbon technologies and sustainable production.

Derbyshire is proving that engineering excellence can go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility.

Leicestershire’s textile heritage is legendary and is enjoying a resurgence, with manufacturers now leaders in smart fabrics and sustainable fashion.

Companies are blending traditional craft with innovative science, producing clothing embedded with sensors, recyclable materials and eco-friendly dyes.

The county's diverse workforce and entrepreneurial spirit are driving this revival, positioning Leicestershire as a global player in ethical fashion and advanced textiles.

I

keep the East Midlands at the forefront of space innovation.

‘I will take this opportunity to repeat my theme as President: United Communities, Stronger Together, Empower Ambition’

Nottinghamshire maintains its reputation as the East Midlands innovation hub. With access to our regions sic universities and research centres, manufacturers are pioneering breakthroughs in digital manufacturing, robotics and additive technologies.

Factories are becoming smarter, with AIdriven systems optimising production lines and reducing waste.

Nottinghamshire is also leading in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, exporting life-changing products worldwide. The region’s ability to combine creativity with technical expertise makes it a magnet for investment.

To build on our industrial heritage, I will take this opportunity to repeat my theme as

President: United Communities, Stronger Together, Empower Ambition.

The EMMN embodies my theme as a supportive ecosystem where ambitious businesses share best practices, tackle challenges together and identify opportunities for joint ventures.

Across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire the EMMN brings leaders together, ensuring that the region’s manufacturing community stays agile and connected for business growth.

Long-term, EMMN can be a vehicle for attracting investment and talent. Young people can be inspired to pursue careers in manufacturing, thanks to outreach programmes that highlight the sector’s exciting future and remove the perception that manufacturing is dirty and smelly with no future. This could not be further from the truth.

Apprenticeships can equip the next generation with skills in robotics, sustainability and digital design, ensuring that the East Midlands workforce not only remains worldclass, but is world leading.

Back to my President's theme.

United Communities, Stronger Together, Empower Ambition is the strategy, but the action is centred on three powerful drivers –Evolve, Market and Collaborate:

Evolve – because the world is changing faster than ever and adaptability is a superpower

Market – because we must proudly tell the world who we are and what we can offer

Collaborate – because collaboration is not a compromise; it’s a must for mutual success

For the East Midlands to position itself as a beacon of modern manufacturing, heritage industries require reinvention, new technologies need embracing and sustainability has to be at the core of every decision.

Let’s evolve and do things differently, lets shout and tell the world how brilliant our capabilities are and let’s collaborate to amplify these capabilities so that the East Midlands is showing the world that British manufacturing is proud, innovative, dynamic and capable to lead the future.

should also mention the wonderful contribution from Leicestershire to