Biz Network June 2025

HOW BUNKER MENTALITY

INPUT INVITED OVER PLANS FOR REDEVELOPMENT OF NOTTINGHAM WAR ROOMS COLD WAR FACILITY

THE FIRST WORD

The stark exterior of the cold war bunker on this month’s cover is an uncomfortable reminder of the global tensions following the war. The building would have been home to the regional leaders tasked with running this part of the country if the Russians had dropped the bomb. What life would have been like behind the 7ft thick walls when that happened is anyone’s guess.

It was a significant period in history, and apt that it will be remembered when – pending planning permission – the complex is redeveloped as part of a big Nottingham housing and workspace scheme. The site’s heritage will form part of its redevelopment.

You can read about it – and the part the Chamber could play – and find out about potentially contributing to the plans in our spread on page 11.

Elsewhere, this issue of Network has a people and skills theme to tie in with our conference in Loughborough on 24 June.

The event will be a chance for business leaders, educators, civil servants, HR professionals and experts in diversity and in the social sector to share their thoughts on ways to make the region a better place for the people who live and work here. It’s always a busy event.

Our Big Interview is with someone who relies on the expertise and professionalism of his team to ensure songwriters, composers, performers and publishers get the royalties they deserve when their music is played in our workplaces and public places.

Thanks to the 250-strong team who work with Greg Aiello at PPL PRS, more than £1bn in public performance royalties has been paid out since its 2018 launch.

In our Focus pages we hear from West Nottinghamshire College about the work it does to provide an inclusive learning environment and the huge amount of work going on in the East Midlands to ensure our school pupils, college and university students and workers get the training and skills needed to play a positive role in the workforce and in society. There’s a lot going on.

There’s also jobs news, plans to expand cargo services at East Midlands Airport, end of season football news and three reports from the recent UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds – where billions of pounds of regional investment opportunities were showcased.

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

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COVER PHOTO

Nottingham War Rooms, located off Chalfont Drive, Beechdale. See page 10.

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JUNE 2025

MEMBER NEWS

4 Airport expansion plan will boost jobs

APPOINTMENTS

22 Law firm adds new partner

THE BIG INTERVIEW

25 Greg Aiello, managing director PPL PRS

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

30 College celebrates placing more than 1,900 students in industry

CHAMBER NEWS

32 Selection of East Midlands firms earn King’s Awards for Enterprise

CHAMBER NETWORKS

40 Outdoor setting for Generation Next Awards

TRAINING & EVENTS

44 Autumn event will be celebration of success

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

46 Wombles head for Heights of Abraham

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

50 Chamber welcomes UK-EU reset

POLITICS

52 New leadership teams take over at region’s three county councils

FEATURES

54 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Conflict resolution in the workplace

56 Podcasts get you up close and personal

58FOCUS

Taking a closer look at the people who power the region’s businesses and industry

64 BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

Are you taking cyber crime seriously?

66 Why your supply chain can mean trouble in store

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

68 Business must learn lessons from recent high-profile cyber attacks

BUSINESS SUPPORT

72 LEGAL

Law firm advises on series of key mergers

74 FINANCE

Loan opportunity for small businesses

76 SKILLS

Students scoop awards for academic excellence

78 PROPERTY

Sustainable headquarters for Alpha

80MOTORING

Nick Jones tests Toyota’s powerful Supra

THE LAST WORD

82 Chamber president Dawn Whitemore on why people are a business’s greatest asset, and how to get the most out of them

MEMBER NEWS

THE LATEST NEWS FROM OUR CHAMBER MEMBERS

Airport’s expansion plans could create 20,000 jobs

Tdevelop four parcels of land next to the runway, which they said could lead to more than 20,000 jobs.

The airport’s blueprint for growth has the potential to create more space for big cargo companies at what is already the UK’s most important air cargo hub – helping meet a predicted 54% rise in demand for freight services over the next 20 years.

Cargo giants already based there include Royal Mail, DHL and FedEx.

The proposals were unveiled at

forum which recently took place in Leeds.

The four sites total more than 120 acres and management are now looking for potential developers to work with them on the plans.

Two of the plots have tax site status as part of the East Midlands Freeport, offering businesses investing in the sites tax incentives and simplified customs processes.

Three of the sites would have direct access to the runway, through new taxiways and space to

‘Our plan for growth will bolster the airport’s pivotal role in powering UK trade, with tens of thousands of jobs and billions in economic value set to be unlocked’

proposals also include 1.3 million sq ft of warehouse space, along with up to 550,000 sq ft of landside yard space and 1,000 parking spaces.

A study by air travel consultants York Aviation/MDS Transmodal suggested express freight at the site could grow from 370,000 tonnes to 491,000 tonnes by 2030 and then 583,000 tonnes by 2043.

The airport’s attractive features include its central location and proximity to motorway and rail networks; low restrictions around night flying; its specialism in cargo aircraft (as opposed to freight going in the belly-hold of passenger planes) and its single runway offering quick aircraft-totruck times.

The study also suggested cargo growth could be worth an additional £1.8bn and 12,600 extra jobs by 2030, and up to an

Steve Griffiths, managing director of East Midlands Airport

Main picture and right: Images from East Midlands Airport’s blueprint for growth plans

additional £3.9bn and 21,300 jobs by 2043.

Managing director Steve Griffiths said: “East Midlands Airport is already one of the most important airports in the UK, forming the backbone of express freight that powers the growth of advanced manufacturing and other high-value industries.

“It is the hub that connects much of the country to the world’s most important markets for trade.

“Analysis shows we have the potential for significant growth in the coming years and in order to meet this growth, we have identified development opportunities to enhance our cargo infrastructure.

“Our plan for growth will bolster the airport’s pivotal role in powering UK trade, with tens of thousands of jobs and billions in economic value set to be

Materials specialist opens Melton facility

Construction materials specialist Saint-Gobain has announced plans for a new East Midlands plant that could eventually lead to 250 jobs.

The business is setting up a lowcarbon stone wool insulation plant on a site owned by the group in Holwell, just outside Melton, which is expected to begin production in 2027.

The facility will initially produce 50,000 tonnes of stone wool insulation a year for the UK market –with an initial 100 manufacturing roles – with potential for that to grow substantially.

The new manufacturing facility will benefit from technology including a fully electric furnace, powered by renewable electricity.

The business said the investment will help meet growing demand for both stone wool and low-carbon construction materials.

The project is part of SaintGobain’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Melton Borough Council leader Councillor Pip Allnatt welcomed the potential to create jobs and help local people develop their skills and careers with a long-established company.

He said: “Right now, the construction industry plays a vital role in driving economic growth, and ensuring high quality building materials is essential in achieving this. This investment is outstanding news, and represents a terrific vote of confidence in Melton.

“It’s been a great pleasure working with Saint-Gobain over recent months, and for the council to have been able to assist them in their decision to bring this major investment into Holwell.”

Scheme could help elk return to the wild

Elk could be reintroduced into the East Midlands thanks to fresh funding for the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trusts.

The Rewilding Britain charity is supporting initiatives including a joint project by the two regional wildlife bodies to bring European elk – known as moose in North America – back into the ecosystem.

unlocked by enhancing EMA’s cargo operation.

“We have four plots, a completely open-mind over how those plots should be developed and are open to suggestions for investment mechanisms that would unlock their potential.”

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward, who launched a regional vision for growth at UKREiiF, said: “East Midlands Airport connects our region to the world, and we need to get the most out of those connections to grow the economy in a way that lands here – boosting our businesses and bringing people together.

“The airport’s cargo expansion is consistent with this objective and is a game-changer not just for us, but for the UK.”

For more from UKREiiF turn to pages 8 and 52.

It is believed they could have a positive effect, promoting natural regeneration of woodland and maintaining open clearings.

The East Midlands project would reintroduce elk into two existing beaver enclosures, bringing the two keystone species together in the UK for the first time in 3,000 years.

Rachel Bennett, deputy director of Wilder Landscapes and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said: “This project could demonstrate how this crucial ecosystem engineer can thrive in floodplain landscapes, shaping diverse habitats that benefit communities and support biodiversity recovery. It may also serve as a catalyst for engaging people in the long-term benefits of returning elk to the wild.”

Elk could be introduced to the East Midlands (Credit: Greenwood Foto)

Saint-Gobain is setting up a new site in Holwell, near Melton Mowbray

Damon Brain of Duncan & Toplis

Merger deal for Torr Waterfield

Torr Waterfield has become part of Duncan & Toplis, one of the UK’s leading accountancy and business advisory groups.

The agreement, which is pending regulatory approval, will see the merger go ahead in the coming weeks, with the business rebranded as Duncan & Toplis.

All 60 members of staff –including directors and cofounders Mark Torr and Mike Waterfield – will continue in their current roles.

The office in Clarence Street, Leicester, will become Duncan & Toplis’ newest location, extending the group’s reach across the Midlands.

Mark Torr said: “We’re proud of everything we’ve built over the past 25 years.

“Joining Duncan & Toplis enables us to further build on that foundation while creating space to grow.

“We’re confident this will be a smooth transition, and we look forward to continuing to support clients with the same service they know and trust, now with the backing of a respected and established national group.”

Mike Waterfield said: “This is a very positive step for our business. Duncan & Toplis shares our commitment to high-quality client service and supporting our people.”

Duncan & Toplis chief executive Damon Brain said: “We’re delighted to welcome Torr Waterfield to Duncan & Toplis. Leicester is a key strategic location for us, and this move strengthens our regional presence while adding great people and experience to our team. This partnership is not just about growth – it’s about alignment.

“Mark, Mike, and their team have built a people-focused firm that puts clients first, which reflects our own values. We’re excited to support them as we move forward together.”

European football will bring range of benefits

Nottingham Forest’s qualification for the UEFA Conference League has been called a landmark moment for the city and county – unlocking opportunities to boost tourism, attract investment and enhance the areas international profile.

Marketing Nottingham & Nottinghamshire – the official place marketing organisation for the region and umbrella for the Visit Nottinghamshire and Invest in Nottingham brands – welcomed the announcement as a big step forward in raising the area’s visibility on a global scale.

After a 30-year hiatus from European competition, Forest’s return to the continental stage for the 2025/26 season is being seen as more than a sporting milestone

‘A unique opportunity to strengthen Nottingham’s position as a thriving, internationally connected city’

– but a chance to showcase a “dynamic and welcoming” destination to an international audience, many of them experiencing the city for the first time.

Megan Powell Vreeswijk, the marketing body’s chief executive, said: “This is a unique opportunity to strengthen Nottingham’s position as a thriving, internationally connected city.

“With European football on the

horizon, we’re not only preparing to welcome new visitors – we’re also focused on leveraging this spotlight to forge new partnerships, grow our visitor economy, and demonstrate everything that makes Nottinghamshire a distinctive and compelling destination on the European stage.”

Visit Nottinghamshire is developing plans to showcase the area’s cultural offering, heritage attractions and warm hospitality. It plans to work closely with tourism partners to welcome visiting supporters, encouraging them to extend their stay and explore more of what Nottinghamshire has to offer – from Robin Hood and DH Lawrence, to the vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks and green open spaces.

Club given grounds for optimism

Derby County Football Club and Pride Park Stadium are to be unified once again within a new holding company.

Clowes Developments (UK) bought the club and ground out of administration in the summer of 2022, but until now they were held in separate legal entities.

The stadium company will sit alongside the club company under a new holding company, Derby County (The Rams) Holdings, which is owned by Clowes Developments (UK).

Although there is no change of ownership, the owners said the move reflects a desire to allay concerns from fans regarding the separation of club and stadium.

Owner and Rams fan David Clowes said: “Having secured our goal of maintaining our Championship status after promotion from League One, we felt it was the right time to make this change.”

The changes were discussed fully with the Supporters’ Board, which was reassured that it would help “protect such a critical club and community asset”.

Derby finished 19th in the Championship, where they will be joined by Leicester City next season.

Nottingham Forest’s City Ground by the River Trent

Owner David Clowes and players celebrate Derby County’s promotion to the Championship in 2024

TV show puts a smile on face of local entrepreneur

Leadership mentor, speaker and consultant Gary Parsons has found a new smile thanks to working with the team behind Channel 4 series Love My Face Entrepreneur Gary Parsons has had a facial difference since he was 18, and has always struggled to come to terms with the way he looks.

The 41-year-old from Derbyshire woke up when he was a teenager to find the right side of his face was numb and wouldn’t move. He was diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, which causes facial paralysis.

While 70% of those who experience Bell’s Palsy make a full recovery within three to six months, Gary’s facial difference was permanent.

He said: “I was always entrepreneurial, building computers and designing graphics for friends, family, even my teachers. But when I woke up at 18 with one side of my face paralysed, everything changed.

“I threw myself into work, but I never truly accepted how I looked –I just learned to hide it well. The only way I felt I could navigate life

‘It felt like the right time to explore something I’d quietly struggled with for years’

was to stop smiling. It became my armour. I struggled to smile for over 20 years.”

Despite that, Gary went on to build a successful business called Talk Staff, which he stepped down from a year ago to launch a consultancy as a leadership mentor, workshop facilitator and consultant.

He said: “I started speaking openly about my Bell’s Palsy in 2021, and that led to amazing support from the charity Facial Palsy UK and eventually a referral to a specialist clinic.

“When the Love My Face team reached out, it felt like the right time to explore something I’d quietly struggled with for yearsmy smile. The show gave me space to reflect, and they helped me to accept myself and to also consider the possibility of ‘smile’ surgery.”

Gary Parsons

Recruiter opens HQ near airport

SF Recruitment has opened a new East Midlands headquarters near East Midlands Airport in a move which brings together the firm’s Leicester and Nottingham teams. It coincides with the company expanding its recruitment specialisms in areas such as STEM recruitment, adding technology and engineering to its established finance, private-equity and corporate services divisions. There are now plans for European expansion.

East Midlands managing director Rebecca Parnell said: “Relocating to East Midlands Airport places SF Recruitment at the heart of East Midlands and in close proximity to major cities and transport hubs.

“Over 40 SF people will be moving to our new hub, making us one of the largest East Midlands-focussed recruitment teams in the region.”

Derby aiming to make a splash in the nuclear world

Investors at a major UK property event have been learning how Derby is at the forefront of a “nuclear renaissance”.

Inward investment group Team Derby staged a panel event called ‘The £9bn Derby Deal’ at the 2025 UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds, outlining how Rolls-Royce’s success was propelling investment opportunities across the city.

The panel was chaired by Marketing Derby managing director John Forkin, and featured

representatives from Derby City Council, the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), Rolls-Royce, Indurent and AtkinsRéalis, who discussed how the engineering giant’s £9bn “Unity” nuclear submarines contract with the MOD was benefitting the city.

Rich Whelband, head of marketing and communications at Rolls-Royce Submarines, said: “For 60 years, Rolls-Royce has been powering nuclear submarines – we are absolutely locked into what the

Royal Navy is doing to protect the UK.

“As part of our commitment to the Royal Navy, and bolstered by the £9bn Unity deal, we are doubling the size of operations at Raynesway. We want to make Derby a nuclear skills hub – it’s a nuclear renaissance.”

‘We

want to make Derby a nuclear skills

hub – it’s a nuclear renaissance’

The Unity contract stretches for eight years and will result in hundreds of new jobs at RollsRoyce Submarines’ Raynesway site, which designs, builds and maintains all of the nuclear reactors that power the Royal Navy’s fleet of submarines.

Engineering and development consultancy AtkinsRéalis has been appointed by Rolls-Royce, along with Mott MacDonald, as its fissile design partners for the expansion.

AtkinsRéalis employs 35,000 people globally, working on complex projects and programmes.

Examples of ways in which RollsRoyce’s expansion has helped the broader city include its new warehouse facility at Indurent Park Derby – the new 50-acre industrial hub for high-tech R&D and manufacturing and logistics.

Up until last year, Indurent was known as St. Modwen – a company which was acquired by US-based Blackstone in 2021.

Derby’s new City Centre Office Prospectus sets out all the existing and planned office developments in the city centre in a bid to attract businesses back to the heart of Derby.

Law firm records best financial performance

Flint Bishop has announced its strongest financial performance to date with turnover for the year to the end of April rising to £31.7m from £20.7m a year before.

The Derby-headquartered firm said it came on the back of several years of strategic expansion in the face of tough economic challenges and increased overheads.

A surge in demand has seen the firm invest in unprecedented recruitment and internal progression programmes, including team acquisitions from Walker Morris LLP and Rebel Energy.

Those additions contributed to a 34% increase in headcount, bringing the total number of employees to 323.

There has also been big investment in the firm’s infrastructure and technology, the securing of high-profile clients, opening of two new office locations and the launch of a range of new service lines.

Chief executive Qamer Ghafoor said: “I’m incredibly proud of our achievements this year, having surpassed £30m in revenue for the first time in the firm’s history.

“With our four current office locations – Birmingham, Derby, Leeds, and Swansea – serving as strong foundations, we will continue to expand our full-service offering and create opportunities for growth across both commercial and private client areas. We are in

advanced discussions regarding further acquisitions and are actively exploring opportunities to expand into new locations.

“We are firmly committed to maintaining our trajectory of growth, innovation, and service excellence – delivering outstanding value to clients and creating a workplace where people thrive.

“I would like to thank all our staff for their unwavering commitment, hard work, and belief in the vision of our firm.

“This success belongs to all of us, and I look forward to everything we will accomplish together in the year ahead and beyond.”

Qamer Ghafoor, chief executive of Flint Bishop

How the Rolls-Royce Submarines Raynesway site could look after expansion

Businesses invited to hunker in a bunker

Businesses are being asked to play a part in deciding the future of a Cold War bunker which is set to be brought back to use as part of a major regeneration scheme.

Nottingham War Rooms was built 70 years ago as one of 13 regional command centres in the event of a nuclear war.

The vast site, which sits above and below ground on land off Chalfont Drive, Beechdale – just west of Nottingham city centre –would have provided shelter for 400 people tasked with governing what was left of life in the city if the Russians ever attacked.

Designed to withstand a “nearmiss” from an H-bomb, the concrete, windowless walls are 7ft

thick in places and would have protected against the effects of the intense heat from a nuclear explosion and subsequent radioactive fallout – as well as protecting those inside from everyone else as society collapsed.

It was originally built with one storey above ground and one below, but was expanded in the early 60s, enveloping the existing block with two further storeys above ground and a second subterranean level.

The expectation was that the bunker would have been capable of operating autonomously for several months and as well as providing shelter and workspaces for its occupants, it would have had its own BBC emergency broadcasting facilities.

Thankfully it was never used, and was decommissioned after just a few years, before being used as a government storage facility. Today it is derelict, and part of the Homes England estate.

Now there are plans to bring the

listed building back into use alongside a 104-home development on the land surrounding it.

Developer Hamilton Russell Harper, which is part of Langcroft Group, has brought in Nottingham architects CPMG to work on the

‘Designed to withstand a “near-miss” from an H-bomb, the concrete, windowless walls are 7ft thick in places’

The bunker could provide unique office space

bunker plans, while affordable housing group emh is working on the homes plans.

The developer said the building could become a home for local youth charity Base 51 and The Television Workshop as well a community health and leisure facility, with flexible workplace and conferencing rooms, rentable

recording studio space, and public food and drink facilities.

East Midlands Chamber is in talks about potentially managing the workspaces.

Robyn Hutton, a business development manager at Langcroft, said acquiring the site was dependent on gaining planning permission, but in the meantime

she is keen to hear from businesses that might be interested in using the unique space.

She said: “We’ve held numerous events on site to build exposure, and excitement is growing.

‘’Having engaged with the local community throughout the planning process and as we move into the next phase, we’re now inviting the

business community – the future users of the space – to visit, see it in its current form before the strip-out and be part of the journey from the very beginning.

“We also want to encourage Chamber members to become engaged and say what they would like to see included.”

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles described it as a fascinating site with a remarkable back-story and great potential.

He said: “It’s a site which is crying out to be returned to economic use – the potential is enormous, both for the business community and for the city of Nottingham.

“The scale and ambition are significant and, pending full planning permission, the Chamber is looking forward to being a partner on this exciting project.”

If you are interested in finding out about the plans or talking to the developer about the opportunities within it, then scan the QR code or visit:

www.nottingham-war-rooms.com

COMMUNITY WILL BE PERFECT FIT FOR SITE

Chris Jones, executive director of development at emh, said it planned a mix of social rent and shared ownership homes next to the bunker, as part of a new community which would be “sympathetic to this historic site”.

He said: “The need for affordable, quality homes in the East Midlands is high, so we are delighted to be involved in this exciting and important development. Subject to planning approval, we’ll take ownership of some 104 homes. We look forward to the plans for the War Rooms coming to fruition and applaud the overarching goal of this project to preserve and enhance the cultural heritage of the Nottingham War Rooms, whilst bringing much needed homes and community spaces for families in need today.”

Work could start in February 2026.

Pictures Courtesy of Martine Hamilton Knight and Builtvision

How the interior of the redeveloped bunker could look

Being kind and human is key in every situation

Rachael Edmondson-Clarke is the founder of Ellevar — a leadership consultancy for people who care deeply about doing work that matters, and doing it well. Her clients are committed to becoming the kind of leaders others trust and remember. Here she shares her experience of a simple – yet impactful – act of kindness.

Iwasn’t expecting to feel so moved a few Fridays ago. I mean, I was having a camera up my bum – perhaps a tad naive of me!

But there I was – in a hospital gown and a pair of giant blue paper pants (with a flap at the back, no less) – walking down the corridor towards theatre, doing my best to stay breezy. Smiling. Chatting. Holding it together despite the apprehension.

I’d chosen gas and air, so I was fully awake.

The theatre is a strange place when you’re conscious. Six people in the room – all lovely – who all introduced themselves to me. I remember thinking: this is quite a crowd for what’s about to happen.

That’s when I met Toni.

As I lay on my side, adjusting the blanket around me, she pulled up a chair and sat right beside me – so we were eye to eye.

She brought over the gas and air, showed me how it worked. The mouthpiece felt unfamiliar. Plasticky. Slightly absurd. We did a little test run. And then she said:

“You can hold my hand if you like.”

Simple. Human. Kind.

Toni stayed with me throughout. When things got uncomfortable, I made a stop sign with my hand — and she saw it.

‘We don’t talk enough about this: The quiet power of micro-kindness’

When I felt myself drifting — that strange, weightless float when the gas kicks in — her voice brought me back.

When the blood pressure cuff tightened with a squeeze, it was her calm that held me steady.

And all the while, she stayed present and with me:

“Are you okay, Rachael? You’re doing really well.”

She was my anchor. My translator. My connection to the

room. She didn’t have to be that kind. But she was. And I’ll never forget it.

I’m relieved (and grateful) to say the results came back clear – no cause for concern, and nothing sinister. But this experience has stayed with me for a different reason.

In leadership – in life – we talk a lot about performance. About outcomes, impact, influence.

But we don’t talk enough about this: the quiet power of microkindness. The strength in staying

present. The courage it takes to really see someone.

Kindness isn’t fluff. It boosts mood, health and energy. It deepens trust. And it’s how we change the world – one small act at a time.

It reminds me of what the Dalai Lama said: “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

Toni reminded me that kindness is a leadership skill.

And that being human – really human – might just be the most powerful thing we bring to any room.

Club’s new website aims to hit business for six

Derbyshire County Cricket Club has launched a new conference and events website, designed to make it easier for event organisers and guests to explore, plan and book events at The County Ground.

The new site offers a fresh, user-friendly experience with updated venue information, new image galleries and tailored content for every type of event – from business conferences and exhibitions to weddings, private parties and team-building days.

A club spokesman said: “Whether you’re looking to host a corporate meeting in the stylish boardroom, a large-scale celebration in the spacious marquee or an elegant gala dinner in The Pavilion, the new website provides a full overview of capacities, facilities and packages available.

“The launch of the new site comes as we continue to develop our noncricket offering, with an exciting calendar of events and new packages available for 2025”.

Rachael in the paper pants she had to wear in hospital

Rachael Edmondson-Clarke

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Blockbuster movies return to Selston Country Park

Selston Films in the Park will return on Saturday 21 June with two releases being shown on the big screen at Selston Country Park.

Families are invited to a 2pm showing of Paddington in Peru, following by Wicked, the untold story of the Witches of Oz at 6pm.

The event, organised by Out of the Box Events on behalf of Ashfield District Council, will also include music in the bar area, inflatables and face painting.

‘There is nothing better than sitting in the park, hopefully in the nice weather, and watching a good film’

It is the first event of summer which will also see the return of the three-day Ashfield Show in August, Hucknall Fest and the Ashfield Food and Drink Festival.

Council leader Councillor Jason Zadrozny said: “There is nothing better than sitting in the park, hopefully in the nice weather, and watching a good film.

“We put out a poll on Facebook

Leicester hosts event with impact

Tickets are on sale for a “Celebrate our Similarities” summer event taking place at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre on Sunday 29 June.

The event – with a theme of “Peace and Sustainability –let’s take back humanity” – will include attractions including vegan food, music and live performances, well-being experiences and workshops, rejuvenating yoga sessions, dance demonstrations and choir performances.

Tickets for the day, which runs from 10am-6pm, are £20.

A spokeswoman said: “This isn’t just an event – it’s your opportunity to take part in making Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland a global exemplar for social impact through this Celebrate Our Similarities (COS) initiative.”

Contact Kamla Pattni on 07855 178841 or email: celebrateoursimilarities@ gmail.com

to find out which films people wanted for this year’s Selston Films in the Park.

“I have to say they are excellent choices. This is a free event and just the first of a wonderful Summer of events for the people of Ashfield. Please come along and

show it your support.

“We hope to hear everyone singing along with Wicked to end what promises to be a fun evening.”

This is a free event and no tickets or booking is required – but people are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and snacks.

Leading business acquires Termate

Nottingham electrical insulation component manufacturer Termate has been acquired by n Industries Group – a “champion of UK SME industrial businesses”.

Management said the strategic partnership positioned Termate for accelerated growth and expanded global reach.

The business has been operating for more than 80 years, providing safety-critical electrical components.

Outgoing managing director and owner Rob Swann said: “Joining n Industries marks a significant milestone for Termate.

“Their decentralised structure and commitment to supporting Termate’s excellent management team will enable them to capitalise on the company’s strong foundations to meet the increasing demand for products in key sectors.

“With the global energy transition and the rapid expansion of data centres and energy storage solutions, the need for high-quality, reliable electrical insulation has never been greater.”

Stadium has a summer season

The One Call Stadium, home of Mansfield Town FC, is holding a number of events over the summer months.

Men’s mental health charity Enlighten the Shadows is hosting a comedy and music night from 7pm on Friday 27 June, topped off with American BBQ style food.

All proceeds go towards the charity, and for tickets visit: is.gd/q0u5Th

Tickets are also on sale for StagsFest 2025, Mansfield’s biggest music festival of the year, on Saturday, 26 July.

The Radford Foundation Marquee will host six tribute

acts alongside The Usual Suspects, an indie-rock band that wowed the crowd at the club’s Oktoberfest in 2024.

A spokesman said: “Expect a full day of wall-to-wall entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy a wide variety of unique food and drink stalls, plus a dedicated kids’ play area with plenty of activities.

“We’re excited to offer an exclusive family ticket that makes enjoying the day even more affordable.”

For tickets visit the mansfieldtown.net website.

Selston Films in the Park will return this month

IN BRIEF

Hema Badger-Mistry at the 2025 Chamber Celebration of Culture and Communities

CREATIVE HUB PROJECT OFF TO A FLYING START

A fundraising campaign to build a hub for young creatives in Leicester has already raised £2,000.

Arts and education charity Pedestrian has launched an “Our Big Build” project, urging businesses to help it raise £50,000.

The charity had run out of space to support as many young people as it wanted but the cost of expanding has been hampered by the rising cost of construction materials.

To donate visit: www.justgiving.com/page/open ing-doors

Gresham Aparthotel in Leicester APARTHOTEL EARNS

REVIEWERS’ ACCOLADE

For the third year in a row, The Gresham Aparthotel, in Leicester, has been announced as Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice, placing it among the top 10% of listings around the world.

The awards celebrate reviews and genuine feedback on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable indicator of travellers’ opinions.

Hotel management said: “Guests said noted the highquality service provided by our staff, along with excellent cleanliness and fabulous value of the accommodation.

“We’re proud to win this award, which is testament to our dedication in welcoming our guests and delivering consistently exceptional service, alongside top-grade facilities in The Gresham Bar & Restaurant, and on-site fitness suite. We thank you for all of your positive feedback and ongoing support.”

Mild weather puts spring in step of fashion giant

High street fashion giant Next reported a much better start to the year than expected thanks to the unseasonably mild spring.

The Leicestershire-headquartered business said that in the three months to the end of April, full-price sales were up 11.4% on the same time last year, thanks to strong sales of summer outfits.

‘Our performance in both the UK and overseas was better than we had anticipated’

And the business said it expected the growth to have continued into the current three months, causing it to up its pre-tax profits forecast for the full year by £14m to £1,080m.

Next also revised its guidance for full-price sales for the year up from £5.3bn to £5.4bn – which would be 6% up on 2024.

The business said: “Our performance in both the UK and overseas was better than we had anticipated.

“Sales in our retail shops have been much stronger than we expected but, in our experience, shops benefit disproportionately from the favourable weather.

“So, we are expecting our retail sales to return to being broadly flat for the rest of the year.

“As we mentioned in our March guidance, we are more cautious about sales in the second half because the comparative numbers (in autumn/winter 2024) were much stronger.

“In addition, we believe that the full effects of this April’s National Insurance increase will begin to filter through to the wider economy in the second half.”

Major profit increase for expanding law firm

Law firm Knights has reported revenues of around £162m for the year to 30 April, 8% up on last year, with pre-tax profits expected to be around £28m, up from £25.3m.

The business, which operates on a corporate model, said the number of senior fee earners joining it increased significantly to 52, compared to 40 in the prior year.

During the year, the group continued its strategy of acquisitions, taking on Thursfields in the Midlands, and IBB Law in the South East.

Chief executive David Beech (pictured) said: "During the year, Knights has made significant progress. It is now recognised as the UK's only legal services firm with true national scale, that retains a strong regional focus.

“I am particularly pleased with the uptick in fee earners joining the business. As well as our scale, the reputation we have built for quality of service and a unique culture, allows us to recruit the highest quality talent to the business, which in turn, has driven this strong performance.

“With the group experiencing a return to lower levels of churn in the second half of the financial year and positive momentum continuing into the current year, we remain confident in delivering further growth in FY26.”

In April 19 new members joined East Midlands Chamber:

• Albatross Cars

• Anthony Doores Safety Solutions

• Belgrave Neighbourhood Cooperation Housing Association

• Buckles Law

• Camscott Leisure Limited

• DK Gas Professional

• Dolpha Ltd

• Exploded Sweets Ltd

• Joules

• Mindflow

• Posi-TIV-ely Clean!

• RIS Ltd

• Road Flash Ltd

• Shape Posture Seating

• Synergetic Solutions

• The Hub

• The Salvogroup Ltd

• voco Leicester

• Watercolour TV

One of the outfits in Next’s summer 2025 range

Is ‘Going Dutch’ the solution to the Midlands’ inactivity crisis?

By Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL (pictured), Chairman of RandalSun Capital Ltd

Economic inactivity is a major obstacle to the Midlands' productivity and competitiveness.

As a business owner with more than 30 years of experience in the region, I have seen first-hand how this challenge has intensified as the economically inactive population approaches 10 million nationally –almost one million more than prepandemic.

This includes nearly three million on long-term sick leave, an all-time high since records began in 1993, representing more than a fifth of all 16-64-year-olds. The good news is that within these high numbers are hundreds of thousands who want to work and could do so with proper support.

For any government these numbers are alarming, as economic inactivity acts as a drag on productivity and growth, and creates an unsustainable benefits burden for the nation – the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) estimates the combined cost of working-age incapacity and disability benefits could hit £76bn by the end of the parliament.

Recent Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) reports recognise the increase in inactivity and suggest a 'Going Dutch' decentralised approach that has seen the Netherlands reduce economic inactivity at three times the UK rate.

Government schemes here have shown mixed success thus far, often targeting only the most accessible cases rather than tackling the more challenging but potentially more rewarding situations. As a regional business leader, I have repeatedly heard about thriving companies struggling to fill skilled positions while growing numbers of workingage adults remain disconnected from employment.

The CSJ highlights the enormous financial burden – £28bn annually in additional welfare payments, plus lost productivity and tax revenue. Equally concerning is the erosion of workplace skills among

the long-term economically inactive, creating a downward spiral that worsens over time.

The 'Going Dutch' approach would provide holistic, personfocused support – something difficult to deliver from Whitehall. It would devolve employment support and adult learning budgets to better respond to local needs, requiring central government to embrace the risks of devolution and engage with grassroots organisations who understand their communities best.

‘The current system too often presents a binary choice of either ‘fully fit for work’ or ‘entirely incapable’ –when in reality most people lie somewhere in-between’

In Norway, a job coach focuses on the need of the person not the services of the state. In Denmark, they have experimented with giving local areas full autonomy in service design and delivery.

The good news is that these approaches would not require substantial new funding. As an advocate for local knowledge and networks, I have long supported greater devolution of skills and employment policies to regional authorities.

The East and West Midlands combined authorities and East Midlands councils understand our local labour markets in ways Westminster cannot. They know which sectors are growing, which communities face particular challenges and which interventions work in a local, grassroots context.

The CSJ’s recommendation to devolve responsibility for employment support and adult education makes perfect sense from a business perspective. It would enable agile, responsive

approaches that our dynamic regional economy demands, replacing one-size-fits-all national programmes with tailored interventions.

Perhaps the most crucial insight is recognising that health and employment are deeply interconnected. The growing number of people classified as long-term sick represents a failure to create appropriate pathways back to employment that accommodate health conditions. In my businesses over the years, we have found that flexible arrangements, graduated return-towork programmes and workplace adjustments can enable many individuals with health challenges to contribute productively.

The current system too often presents a binary choice of either ‘fully fit for work’ or ‘entirely incapable’ – when in reality most people lie somewhere in-between.

In my experience, the most effective training programmes are those developed in partnership between employers and education providers. When businesses can directly shape curriculum content, specify skills needed and offer workplace experience, the results are transformative.

Economic inactivity is not just about monetary costs either, it is about community wellbeing and social cohesion. Employment provides not just income but purpose, structure and social connection. Companies are not just economic entities, they are social institutions that can directly strengthen their communities.

For business leaders, I call for greater engagement with local authorities and skills providers to help develop employment pathways for the economically inactive. Rather than lamenting skills shortages, we should be actively participating in creating the workforce we need.

For policymakers, I would urge bold implementation of the CSJ's recommendations, particularly devolving employment and skills responsibilities to regional authorities.

And for our communities, I ask for renewed recognition of work's value, not just as a source of income and prosperity, but as a foundation for individual dignity and collective prosperity.

So, let’s try ‘Going Dutch’, or ‘Norwegian’ or ‘Danish’ as possible solutions to addressing our region’s most pressing inactivity challenges.

APPOINTMENTS

THE LATEST CAREER UPDATES AS COLLEAGUES MOVE UP OR MOVE ON

Richard Buckby and Caroline Walpole

DUO PROMOTED AT ACCOUNTANTS

Caroline Walpole and Richard Buckby have been promoted to partners at Newby Castleman in Leicester, enabling the practice to continue its personal, partner-led support for businesses and individuals.

Caroline has been responsible for organising the day-to-day management of the audit team for several years, and plays a major role in the successful running of the audit department.

She works with clients across a range of industries and has built up a detailed knowledge of each company and the sector they operate in.

Richard is a qualified chartered accountant (FCA) with experience in all aspects of audit and assurance, accountancy, taxation and financial management.

Managing partner Chris Castleman said: “These promotions are thoroughly well deserved. I am confident they will both play an integral part in the firm’s continued success.”

HEALTHCARE EXPERT REJOINS LAW FIRM IN PARTNER ROLE

Browne Jacobson’s health and litigation offering has been bolstered by the appointment of Bethan Parry as partner.

She returns to the Nottingham-based firm from Clyde & Co, where she was legal director.

Bethan specialises in clinical negligence litigation and healthcare law. She has more than 15 years’ experience, providing legal advice to medical defence organisations and insurers, primary healthcare professionals, hospital clinicians and privately indemnified medical professionals.

Bethan said: “Having spent a crucial part of my career at Browne Jacobson, it’s exciting to be returning to the

NO DISPUTING LATEST PAIR OF APPOINTMENTS

Shakespeare Martineau has appointed Tim Speed and Vanessa Joll as joint heads of its litigation practice – further strengthening its national dispute resolution offering.

Tim’s work has a focus on commercial litigation and spans areas including energy, insolvency and corporate litigation.

Vanessa – who will oversee the real estate disputes and housing and asset management side of the

practice – advises on a broad range of property-related disputes, with a focus on the commercial property and residential development sectors.

Shakespeare Martineau said a pipeline of new recruits are set to join the team in the coming months.

Tim said: “It’s an exciting time to be stepping into this leadership role as we continue to scale up our litigation services nationally.”

firm as a partner to help continue its impressive growth journey, while helping to shape the legal landscape for healthcare through my litigation caseload.”

Another addition is Kathryn Fearn as principal associate who joins following the retirement of partner Simon Tait. She is based in Browne Jacobson’s Nottingham office as part of the national advisory and inquests team.

Prior to joining Browne Jacobson, Kathryn was Director of Legal Services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and previously worked at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Trust, latterly as associate director of legal services.

Kathryn Fearn, Lorna Hardman and Bethan Parry of Browne Jacobson

Tim Speed and Vanessa Joll of Shakespeare Martineau

REBECCA PLANS ON A FUTURE AT PLMR

Rebecca Langton (pictured) has joined communication specialist PLMR as its new head of planning and built environment, boosting the agency’s planning credentials and Midlands expertise.

Rebecca’s most recent role was with Cavendish Consulting and she has also held communications roles with charities and local authorities.

Previous clients have included nationally-significant infrastructure projects, major housing schemes and some of the country’s best-known retailers.

She also has more than a decade of experience in local government in both advisory and elected roles, having spent four years on the cabinet of Nottingham City Council, holding the communities brief followed by the skills, growth and economic development portfolio.

She has held advisory roles in local government and the European Parliament, and has supported local authorities with strategic communications, devolution negotiations and considerations around local government reorganisation.

Rebecca said: “PLMR has an outstanding reputation for strategic communications, for planning communications and its nationwide offer to clients. I’m looking forward to supporting new and existing clients to navigate the planning process and get them results.”

UHY WELCOMES LATEST COHORT OF TRAINEES

The Nottingham office of accountancy firm UHY has welcomed a new cohort of aspiring accountants, reinforcing its commitment to developing future industry talent.

Adding to the 14 trainees already at the firm within the audit, accounting and business services, and financial planning teams, the latest cohort consists of five graduates who have joined the audit team, alongside a school leaver and a placement student.

Andrew Timms, managing partner at the Nottingham office, said: “It’s fantastic to see another strong cohort of young apprentices join UHY.

“Supporting new talent is at the heart of our firm’s growth, and we are committed to equipping our trainees with the skills and experience needed to become the next generation of accountancy professionals.

“UHY has recently undergone a rebrand and a key part of this is to help people prosper, which applies to our clients and internal teams.

JENNY WILL RAISE CHARITY’S PROFILE

A charity dedicated to supporting children and young people affected by child exploitation has announced the appointment of Jenny Wyeas its PR and communications consultant.

Jenny will be responsible for leading Safe and Sound’s public relations, events and fundraising efforts.

She brings a wealth of experience to the charity, with a track record of developing and implementing strategic communications campaigns for organisations both in the private and public sectors.

Safe and Sound chief executive Tracy Harrison said: “We are delighted to welcome Jenny to the team.

“Her skills and experience will be invaluable as we continue to raise awareness of child exploitation and expand our services to support more young people.”

“By investing in trainees from the outset, we foster a skilled workforce and create opportunities for individuals to qualify as chartered accountants, while gaining invaluable real-world experience.”

JAMES DEAN TO LEAD FREETHS’ PENSIONS PRACTICE

IAN TAKES UP POST OF OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Ian Mills has joined Fortitude Nicsa Global (FNG) as its new operations director.

Ian has almost 25 years of experience in the technology and service delivery space, bringing what management call “a calm confidence, a pragmatic leadership style, and a deep understanding of what it takes to run seamless, customer-focused operations”.

Originally from Leicestershire, he later moved to Stoke-on-Trent where he continued his schooling.

His career took shape at Fujitsu Services, where he started as a service controller, rising through the ranks to manage complex service delivery operations for large customer accounts.

Achievements included overseeing network connectivity across major data centres and more than 18,000 branch locations.

Over the years his roles included network operations centre manager, field services manager and service/operations director.

He said over the coming weeks he hoped to meet everyone at FNG, learn more about their roles, and understand the challenges they face. He said: “I believe the best solutions come from open dialogue and collaboration.”

Freeths has appointed partner James Dean to lead the growth and development of its national pensions practice.

James, who joins from Simmons and Simmons, has more than 20 years’ experience as a senior pensions lawyer, working across a number of City and national firms advising on all aspects of pensions law.

His particular specialisms include pension scheme restructuring, pension change projects as well as M&A, regulatory and central government pensions work.

James has led on a number of high-profile projects recently, including advising in relation to the £300m allocation of surplus in a multiemployer pension scheme, the implementation of a Crown guarantee for a £1.5bn pension scheme and advising several government departments on managing multi-billion-pound pension liabilities.

Greg Upton (left) and Ian Mills of Fortitude Nicsa Global

Jenny Wye

Support for songwriters is music to Greg’s ears

MEETING THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE REGION’S TOP BUSINESSES

Tom Pegden talks to Greg Aiello, managing director of music licensing business PPL PRS about his varied career and why it’s important to ensure that musical artists get paid for the work they create

The leader of the organisation which makes sure businesses such as pubs, shops, hairdressers and factories pay for the music they play says he is proud of the work his team does to support UK artists.

Greg Aiello was promoted to managing director of music licensing business PPL PRS last August, having started there as commercial director in 2019.

PPL PRS was launched the year before as a joint venture between licensing companies PPL –Phonographic Performance Ltd – and PRS for Music, after management decided it made sense to create a single point of contact for collecting royalty payments. Their decision created the biggest licensing body of its kind in the world.

Money collected from venues and premises through TheMusicLicence – its one-stop collection service – is sent back to the parent companies for redistribution to songwriters, composers, performers, publishers and record companies.

Thanks to the work of its 250-strong team, more than £1bn in public performance royalties has been paid out since the launch.

Speaking to Business Network, Greg said: “Basically PRS for Music looks after songwriters, composers and music publishers while PPL looks after artists and record labels, helping those individuals get paid for the music that they’ve created.

“Where we sit is to administer the licence for the use of copyrighted or repertoire music for both stakeholder companies – so that businesses can use that music for public performance.

“So, if a hairdresser, for example, wants to put music into their establishment they would come to us or we would go to them and issue the licence under a particular tariff that covers both our stakeholder companies.”

Greg Aiello says music has always been part of his life

Greg collects the award for head of contact centre/director of the year at the UKCCF Awards in 2024

SUCCESS PROMPTS AWARD WIN

At the end of last year, Greg was recognised by the UK Contact Centre Forum (UKCCF) with a gold award for head of contact centre/director of the year at its annual awards – in part thanks to the work he has done building a strong engagement and wellbeing programme for his staff, including mentoring its Black Allies affinity group, which recognises, educates, celebrates and raises awareness of different cultures.

PPL PRS also won the gold award for team leader of the year, which went to Emma Moore in the collections team, and the silver award for customer experience team of the year, which went to the commercial leadership team.

The business and its staff were shortlisted in four other categories, including complaints management team of the year, support team of the year, manager of the year and industry newcomer of the year.

The UK Contact Centre Forum provides a platform for call centre and customer service professionals to share the latest customer contact thinking and strategy ideas at a local and national level.

When he collected the award, Greg said: “I am so immensely proud of everyone at PPL PRS – without the teams who make the business run day-to-day, I would not have the passion and enthusiasm that I have to lead this business to success.

“I truly am grateful for the recognition that comes with this award, and I would also like congratulate my fellow winners and finalists from our teams. You make PPL PRS a great place to work and lead.”

In 2024 PPL PRS was also named as finalist in six categories at the National Contact Centre Awards.

Greg’s role involves “everything from ordering stationery all the way up to presenting at a conference”

PPL PRS has around 250,000 business accounts, covering around 400,000 premises, with most of the team based in its smart head office in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter.

Greg said: “If you imagine before the joint venture was in place, you'd have to go to PRS for Music and PPL separately and get a licence for both.

“The idea of TheMusicLicence was to have a one-stop-shop – so you come to us and we issue the licence on behalf of both companies.

“The different tariffs depend on the type of business, and it could be that if you’re a club, for instance, you have multiple tariffs because you play different types of music.

“We try to take the complexity out for the customer, and our team is able to work with someone to say “actually, if you’re a hairdresser, you just need the hair and the beauty tariff”. If you’re somewhere that has live music, you might need the live music tariff, and if you have a big workplace, you might need an office tariff.”

Greg started out selling merchandise at concerts and events and 25 years ago began his career as a telephone agent, building up his experience in contact centres in areas such as operations, sales and marketing, with telecommunications giants such as EE and Virgin Media.

He also spent time in Cyprus, running an internet gaming call centre, and prior to all that he was in a band called Casual Knitwear, which toured around the West Midlands. It was an early precursor to his later life in the music business.

He said: “When the PPL PRS opportunity came up I thought “I've got to come over and have a look and see what they're all about”, and I immediately fell in love with the people, with the culture and with the spirit.

“They had probably only been live for about 11 months at that point. The job I had before coming here was as a regional director for a big outsourcing contact centre company, with four or five locations that I looked after across the UK. It was fairly similar to this in some respects.

“When it came up, I wanted this position, there's no doubting that, and [previous PPL PRS MD] Andrea Gray really supported me and very much had a nurturing and succession planning approach.

‘If you’re somewhere that has live music, you might need the live music tariff, and if you have a big workplace, you might need an office tariff’

“In this role you go from everything, from ordering stationery all the way up to presenting at a conference or challenging a strategic decision that we’re making, embedding new technology or driving different types of revenue operations.”

He said revenues were up due to various factors, including inflation and year-on-year growth, but also thanks to the “great job” being done by the team. Being based in the heart of the East Midlands, he said, had also proved good for business.

“We're really happy to be in Leicester – it’s a great location for us, with fantastic people and we’ve got a wonderful team here. Of the 250 people who work for us, about 160-170 of them are in contact centre-based activity.

“What’s important for me, and for the management team as a whole, is that we work hard to keep everybody motivated – especially when you’re surrounded by other great businesses that want to attract talent.

“We just have to be better than them in many respects – in terms of our benefits, we've got good working hours, great conditions and a fabulous office, and we’re nice and local to the train station. From a training perspective, anyone who joins the business goes

Venue music isn’t free according to PPL PRS

PPL PRS operates a major call centre in Leicester’s Cultural Quarter

through an induction which runs for three to five weeks depending on their role. In fact, we’ve done a lot of work in that space over the last 12 months, speaking to people before they even join, then sending them a kind of gig ticket that talks them through joining using music themes.

“We’ve also got a number of people going through apprenticeships across the business and we’ve got leaders going through senior leadership apprenticeships, while our legal team go through their own training.

“We’ve really encouraged that development –not just in their roles, keeping them fresh and updated through training and e-learning, but also looking at how we can help them in their future career here or beyond.

“We’ve got some accreditations as well, so there’s lots of training support and activity, and we have a small training team here who put on different sessions and courses for the team.

“There’s some really cool stuff that we’ve done around customer experience more recently and quality and coaching for the teams as well –we’re not just focused on doing the right thing

PPL PRS offers a range of training and incentives, including You Rock awards

for our people but also for the customer as well. We want to make sure that whatever we're investing in our people translates back into a better service for the customers and also the members as well – we’ve done a lot around quality assurance and auditing processes, for instance.

“We meet as a team frequently. Once a month we all get together as a company and we talk about what’s going on, what the future looks like.

“And twice a year we meet as a business where we bring in people from outside to talk

about the impacts that we’re having. But on top of all that we like to have a lot of fun. We have fun activities that the team tends to set up themselves, like quiz nights, music quizzes and open mic nights.

“We also welcome the community to come in and use our offices and we’ve had people come in and do DJ nights.

“It’s just what you'd expect – good office location, easy to get to, good benefits.”

Greg also sits on the newly-formed Leicester Music Board, created to champion the local music scene and raise the profile of its diverse

Greg Aiello

Greg has fun with staff dressed as a bottle of Champagne

“Why should this city not be a centre for music and creativity in this country? It would be a real missed opportunity If we don't do something about it. So, when we started talking about the Leicester Music Board it was a nobrainer. Absolutely we want to be part of the conversation and support the city to showcase the talent that we’ve got.

and vibrant artists on a national stage. The partnership between industry, educational organisations and professionals includes Leicester City Council, HQ CAN, 2Funky Arts, TiME – Technology in Music Education UK – and de Montfort University.

He said: “I’m not Leicester born and bred, but I've been here for years now and the potential in this city is massive.

“Radio 2 came and did their In the Park weekend event a couple of years ago and the reaction from the city to that was amazing.

‘What’s important for me, and for the management team as a whole, is that we work hard to keep everybody motivated’

“There’s some amazing talent here and we’re fortunate that we've got loads of people that work for us who are songwriters, artists, composers and performers, and we frequently have their music playing in the office.

“The conversations we’re having on the music board are very positive and there’s more to come over the coming months.

“Personally, I’d love to see some events-led activity in the city that brings all of the music venues together.

“You go around the country, and different places do that really well. Birmingham used to do a great job with ArtsFest and Liverpool are doing a fabulous job with their music.

“There are some really cool venues around this city and they should be showcased more. Bringing the venues in Leicester together to do something amazing from a music – and educational – perspective would be brilliant.

“To create a real environment for music would be so positive for us as a location and it would be great to have other cities start looking to us for the stuff going on here. You would also get more businesses saying, “you know what, we should maybe look at Leicester as a location”. There's been some movement on that already.

“These are massive aspirations but these are things that can definitely happen.”

Greg Aiello (left) with Peter Leathem, chief executive of PPL

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

NEWS AND UPDATES FROM EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER’S LEADING SUPPORTERS

Kavya Jain graduated from BA Product Design in 2021

Graduate earns honour from UKRI

A Nottingham Trent University alumna who turned her final year project into a successful business supporting people with sight loss has been honoured with a purple plaque from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Kavya Jain, 25, who graduated from the BA product design course in 2021, established Sensei to help those with sight loss navigate their homes and public buildings using a textured tape that sticks to walls so they can feel their way by hand.

Kavya, who was inspired to create the product after one of her loved ones experienced a deterioration in their eyesight, found a lack of products on the open market to help the visually impaired, particularly children. So, she created a range of low-tech way-finding tapes, with each embossed with a different tactile pattern and assigned a location such as the bedroom or kitchen.

Kavya, originally from Indore in India, said: “The aim of Sensei is to create interior spaces that are more inclusive, and so it’s a real honour for this to be recognised and for me to be given this prestigious award.”

The Purple Plaque recognises the achievements of women leading groundbreaking innovations and aims to inspire future generations of women and girls in STEM.

College places nearly 2,000 students in industry

West Nottinghamshire College’s work placement team has celebrated another successful year of positive placements in industry for more than 1,900 students.

Placements are a big part of many students’ education, providing them with practical experience and skills, industry insights, networking opportunities and personal development – as well as potential employment down the line.

Placement hours can range between 20 to 720, with those studying a T Level qualification needing to take part in 315 hours of placement throughout their courses.

The college works with more than 980 businesses to support placement activities for students, including healthcare providers, retail, leisure and sport, graphic design studios, animal care and kennels, libraries, museums and manufacturers.

Work placement lead co-ordinator Natalie Senior said: “Throughout the academic year the work placement programme at the college has been

a resounding success, and we owe it all to the incredible support of so many local businesses.

“Their partnership, combined with the hard work and dedication of our co-ordinators, has allowed students to meet their placement requirements and gain invaluable real-world experience.

“The team is committed to building strong, meaningful relationships with employers,

ensuring the continued success of the programme year after year.

“We’re constantly engaging with our partners to create lasting connections and provide our students with the best possible opportunities.”

• See the Business Network Focus pages for a feature on the college’s inclusivity work with students.

Agency stays in bat for longer

Strategic marketing agency

Purpose Media has celebrated a decade of partnership with Derbyshire County Cricket Club by agreeing a further two-year sponsorship package and signing a deal to deliver a new web project.

South Normanton-based Purpose Media has been a commercial supporter of the club since 2015, providing backing for both on-field and off-field activities at the County Ground in Derby.

It also developed the club’s website and has assisted with digital marketing and consultancy.

Now, to mark the 10-year anniversary of the relationship, Purpose has announced that it is becoming an official partner of the club – which includes match sponsorship of Derbyshire’s T20

fixture with Nottinghamshire and sponsorship of the annual fireworks night and fun fair.

The agency has also helped the club to secure grant funding from the Derby Accelerator Business Growth and Innovation initiative to create upgraded websites. The project continues Purpose’s work in the professional sports sector, where its clients have included Derby County, Rotherham FC and Middlesex County Cricket Club.

Purpose Media managing director Matt Wheatcroft said: “Our business is fiercely proud of its Derbyshire heritage, and we can think of no better way to demonstrate that than by helping our professional cricket team represent our county in such brilliant fashion.”

Some of the students from the work placement scheme

Matt Wheatcroft with DCCC chief executive Ryan Duckett at the County Ground

Chinese cargo firm makes EMA its first choice in UK

AChinese cargo operator has started regular flights to East Midlands Airport – its first to anywhere in the UK.

Chinese logistics firm YunExpress is operating the Boeing 777F freighter flights in partnership with Central Airlines in a deal which underlines East Midlands’s status as the UK’s number one express air

freight hub. The return flights will initially operate twice a week.

One of the first arrivals was greeted by representatives from the Chinese Embassy to the UK, Chinese Chamber of Commerce, East Midlands Chamber and deputy mayor of the East Midlands Nadine Peatfield.

Airport managing director Steve Griffiths said: “These new operators

are a major coup for the airport and point to our status as the UK’s best-placed airport for the ongoing growth in express air cargo.

“While there are constraints at many other airports, we have capacity for more cargo flights, can operate 24/7 and can quickly get goods from aircraft to anywhere in the UK.”

Bole Xia, general manager of YunExpress, said: “With EMA’s strategic location at the heart of the UK’s thriving e-commerce sector, we are confident in our ability to enhance delivery speed and efficiency.”

Central Airlines is a growing operator based out of Hainan, the southernmost province of China.

Partnership will be a voyage of discovery

Leicestershire-based marketing agency Cross Productions has celebrated 12 years of innovation by expanding into immersive brand experiences with a “game-changing” tech partnership.

The business has signed a strategic partnership with tech agency Voyager which has seen it move into the immersive tech realm, integrating the latest levels of digital close-range communication between devices, augmented reality, gamification, and virtual reality support –alongside its existing podcasting and brand exposure work. Voyager’s work in immersive

media includes the use of a greenscreen studio and a network of creative collaborators.

Cross Productions chief executive Jenny Cross said: “Marketing is changing, and our clients demand solutions that are as innovative as they are effective.

“By partnering with Voyager as we celebrate our 12th year, we are not only enhancing our technical reach but also redefining how brands engage with their audiences.

“Our commitment to a human touch in a techdriven world makes this collaboration a bold and exciting step forward.”

Jenny Cross (centre) with Voyager co-directors Anthony Woodward (left) and Stacey Wragg

Guests welcome Yun Express Central Airlines to East Midlands Airport

CHAMBER NEWS

CONNECTING, CHAMPIONING AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Enterprising regional firms win King’s Awards

More than a dozen East Midlands firms – in specialisms ranging from kids’ play equipment to luggage, renewable energy and aerospace – have been announced as recipients of 2025’s King’s Award for Enterprise.

Widely considered the most prestigious accolade any business can be presented with, the awards recognise outstanding achievement in one of four categories –innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity through social mobility.

King’s Award for Enterprise winners are issued with an official certificate, known as a Grant of Appointment, and get the right to use the award emblem in marketing materials and fly the flag at their head office.

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “For so many businesses in the region – nine of which are East Midlands Chamber members – to get gold-standard recognition on a country and worldwide stage says it all. It’s further testament to the East Midlands as a Centre of Trading Excellence where businesses can thrive.

‘The King’s Award for Enterprise is the pinnacle – about the highest it gets’

“Firms across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire lead on innovation, on overseas trade and sustainable growth. The King’s Award for Enterprise is the pinnacle – about the highest it gets.”

Abacus Flooring Solutions won an award in the innovation category. Founder and managing director Nick Megson said: “This award isn’t just about our product – it’s a huge acknowledgment to the belief, hard work, and sheer dedication of the whole team.

“We’re incredibly proud to fly the flag for our town and to show that innovation and sustainability aren’t just big-city stories.”

Cosy Direct, based on the Derbyshire/Staffordshire border, supplies sustainable playground furniture and play equipment to customers around the world.

The business won its award for international trade, having been honoured with a Queen’s Award for Sustainability Development in 2022.

Managing director David Hook said: “Our whole team

have worked so hard for this award. It is a testament to the quality of our resources, service from our team and to our wonderful customers in the UK and overseas who have supported us through this journey.

“With a brand-new team and offices and staff in the Netherlands, our export group is one of our four stellar growth divisions. To be lucky enough to win a King’s Award as we approach our 15th year to sit alongside our Queen’s Award for Sustainable Development is brilliant.”

Applications for the 2026 King’s Awards are open until 9 September. Call the awards helpline on 020 4551 0081 or email: kingsawards@businessandtrade.gov.uk

KING’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE 2025 – EAST MIDLANDS WINNING BUSINESSES AND CATEGORIES

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

• GeoPura – Innovation

• Abacus Lighting – International Trade

• Midland Aerospace – International Trade

• Bridgeway Consulting – Promoting Opportunity Through Social Mobility

DERBYSHIRE

• David Nieper – Sustainable Development

• Upbeat Clean – Promoting Opportunity Through Social Mobility

• Cosy Direct – International Trade

• Heraeus Electro-Nite – Innovation

• Garner Aluminium Extrusions – Innovation

LEICESTERSHIRE

• Abacus Flooring – Innovation

• Structural Adhesives – Innovation

• Michael Smith Switchgear – Sustainable Development

• CabinZero – International Trade

KING’S

STRUCTURAL ADHESIVES

Leicester-based Structural Adhesives gained its award for its pioneering work in fire-rated adhesive technology, cementing its reputation as a leader in highperformance bonding products. Recognised among just 197 organisations nationwide, it was selected for its groundbreaking A2 Fire Rated Epoxy Adhesive –a product that has helped improve fire safety standards in high-rise buildings and critical infrastructure.

Founded in 1989, it employs 10 people and exports its expertise around the globe. A specialist R&D division, Luma R&D Laboratory Services, works with industry and academia to push

MICHAEL SMITH SWITCHGEAR

Michael Smith Switchgear was honoured with its King’s Award in recognition of its work in sustainable development.

The Leicester manufacturer was one of 27 businesses to be honoured in the sustainable development category, following a decade of work embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations.

The business achieved carbon neutral status in 2022, and is currently seven years ahead of Make UK’s Net Zero carbon reduction roadmap. It has doubled revenue and workforce over the last nine years, now employing 54 people.

Managing director Sean Smith said: “It’s great for our team to see their hard work recognised at the highest level. This has never been a boxticking exercise for us, it’s an

Award winners, L-R: Abacus Flooring Solutions founder and managing director Nick Megson, Cosy Direct co-founder Peter Ellse and Nottinghamshire’s King’s Award Innovation winner GeoPura

Some of the experts at Structural Adhesives

AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE CASE STUDIES

the boundaries of performance, sustainability and safety in adhesive technologies.

Managing director Angela Orton said: “Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise is a tremendous honour for our team. It recognises not only our commitment to technical innovation, but also our passion for making a meaningful impact across the industries we serve.

“As a female-led micro business with an all-female technical team, we are especially proud of this significant achievement. It stands as a powerful recognition of the expertise, ambition, and contribution that small businesses and diverse teams bring to the future of UK manufacturing.”

Structural Adhesives will formally receive its Award at a ceremony later this year.

UPBEAT CLEAN

A commercial cleaning firm which helps maintain some of Derby’s best-known buildings picked up its King’s Award for helping refugee women get back into work and rebuild their lives.

Upbeat Clean, based in St Chad’s Road, won in the category of Promoting Opportunity Through Social Mobility – one of the rarest King’s Awards to win, recognising organisations which help people from disadvantaged backgrounds improve their employment opportunities and job skills.

The business was founded as a social enterprise by city charity Upbeat Communities in 2020, as part of its work helping refugees and asylum seekers settle and rebuild their lives in the UK.

Managing director Michael Gladwell said it provides meaningful employment for refugee women in the city who have fled war or persecution, giving them the chance to earn money for themselves and their families and access training.

In recent years it has increased its remit to make

a positive impact on the cleaning sector, having taken on people who were already working in the industry but were not being given their full employment entitlements, including annual leave and pension contributions.

It currently employs 40 people and clients include well-known city firms such as Getinge in Pride Park, Derby Museums, Derby County Community Trust and QUAD. New contracts mean it expects to employ 60 people by the end of the year.

Michael said: “Our team are delighted to be recognised by the King for combining excellent cleaning with life-changing employment.

“We knew before we started that there was huge potential in partnering with refugee women who have fled horrific situations with their children, giving them an opportunity not only to work, but to realise their full potential and take on management and leadership roles. They’ve done that amazingly, thanks to the incredible support from over 40 Derby companies who are using their budgets to get excellent cleaning and change lives.”

but don’t know where to start –this award shows that making a series of small steps over a period of time enables anyone to help protect future generations.”

area in which we really want to lead change.”

The King’s Award recognition comes as Michael Smith

Switchgear marks its 40th anniversary. Founded in 1985, it manufactures, installs and maintains quality low-voltage assemblies for clients across the UK, and it has gone from a small yard behind a Leicester terrace to a purpose-built site that sets the standard for sustainable manufacturing. It began its

sustainability journey soon after operations and finance director Emily Smith, a chartered accountant, joined the company in 2013.

Emily said: “Lots of companies want to move towards Net Zero

As well as sustainability, the business focuses closely on standards and safety, having recently renewed its four ISO certifications – including ISO 14001 for Environmental Management Systems – and recording nine consecutive years of RoSPA Gold Medal Awards.

Minister Liz Kendall MP recently visited the manufacturer’s site on the Braunstone Frith Industrial Estate, in her Leicester West constituency, meeting team members and seeing at first-hand the innovative measures underpinning its sustainability success.

She said: “Michael Smith Switchgear is a brilliant example of how manufacturing growth does not need to compromise Net Zero ambitions while also creating fantastic roles for apprentices.”

L-R: Upbeat Clean general manager Paul Gray, cleaning manager Paule Akre, managing director Michael Gladwell and operations lead Tanya Sharma

Liz Kendall MP (centre right) with Sean Smith, Emily Smith and apprentices at Michael Smith Switchgear in Leicester (Credit Beth Walsh)

Rising pressure to increase prices

Firms face increased pressure to increase prices after inflation having climbed more than expected to 3.5%, East Midlands Chamber has said.

The warning followed the latest estimated figure from the Office for National Statistics, which is above the Government’s 2% target.

The Chamber said: “Half the businesses in the East Midlands said they expect to up their prices in our last Quarterly Economic Survey for the region and with inflation a driver of that, seeing it soar much further away from the Government’s 2% target to 3.5% piles extra weight onto that challenge.

“Firms are already dealing with the burden of higher National Insurance contributions and higher National Living Wage and the impact of those was strong enough that our survey revealed labour costs cited as the biggest factor behind businesses considering upping prices.

“Political leaders need to step up and ensure policies ease these very tough trading conditions. All eyes will be on the Government’s comprehensive spending review on 11 June where they must seize every opportunity to help not hinder businesses.”

Changes to visa requirements could cause labour shortages

Migrant workers still needed

A“comprehensive skills framework that can deliver the workforce of the future” should be top of the list, according to the Chamber, in reaction to publication of the Government white paper on reducing migration into the UK.

New restrictions set out in the white paper include:

• Skilled worker visas restricted to graduates

• English language requirement for skilled workers and workers

• Qualifying period for UK settlement increased to 10 years

• Graduates limited to 18-month stay after completion of studies

• Closure of care worker visas.

‘Shortages in labour and skills continue to present a huge challenge’

Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “Businesses always try to fill roles from their local and regional workforce first, but shortages in labour and skills continue to present a huge challenge. In the East Midlands, nearly seven out of 10 firms that tried to recruit struggled to find suitable candidates – at both skilled and non-skilled level – as evidenced in the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey for the region.

“It’s clear that the level of qualified candidates for the roles available needs to increase, but how this is approached is critical.

“To deliver the workforce of the future, there must be a comprehensive skills framework that supports education and businesses to deliver on the demand; for example, delivering the reform to the Apprenticeship Levy to give business the muchneeded flexibility that mirrors the need of the workforce.

“It is also essential that changes don’t hamper business operation or particular sectors, such as care or construction by closing the door on available talent that meets their needs at this time.”

Chamber welcomes cut in interest rates

East Midlands Chamber has cautiously welcomed the Bank of England’s 0.25% cut in the interest rate to 4.25% but warned that higher costs for businesses and price pressure persist.

Director of policy and insight

Richard Blackmore said: “Businesses looking to borrow will benefit from this lower interest rate, but when you take into account the sheer weight of cost challenges businesses face right now – inflation still above the Government’s 2% target, staffing now more expensive

due to higher employer National Insurance contributions that kicked in last month and a higher National Living Wage, trading conditions are still tough.

“Our Quarterly Economic Survey showed half of East Midlands businesses expect having to raise their prices, a figure that rose significantly since last summer, with labour costs the biggest driver.

“Confidence is a real low with four out of 10 businesses reporting that they anticipate profitability to worsen over the next 12 months.”

East Midlands business confidence is still low

Confidence among the region’s businesses remains low, East Midlands Chamber has cautioned, despite growth of 0.7% in the first three months of the year.

The latest estimated GDP figures from the Office for National Statistics were higher than expected by economists.

Director of policy and insight

Richard Blackmore (pictured) said: “While growth in the economy is what businesses want to see, the operating conditions firms are faced with are harder than they were this time last year, with higher employer National Insurance contributions and higher national living wage on the cost sheet.

“Our Quarterly Economic Survey revealed confidence among East Midlands firms to have nosedived in recent

months, with corporate taxation now the number one concern, followed by inflation, and half the region’s businesses saying they anticipate upping their prices as a result of the challenges they’re having to navigate.

“What businesses want to see is support – and that means political leaders at all levels putting the needs of firms front and centre in international trade talks and in the comprehensive spending review next month.”

The Bank of England has cut interest rates

We’re putting down roots

By

Gary Moorhouse, commercial director of BPD member Thompsons Tree Services (UK), in Wirksworth, which has 31 employees

Founded in 2009, Thompsons Group has grown into a leading UK provider of arboricultural, ecological, and environmental services. The business is made up of three core divisions – Thompson Tree Services, Thompson Consultancy and Thompson Environment –allowing us to deliver a full turnkey solution to clients in construction, infrastructure, planning and facilities management.

We work with principal contractors, developers, local authorities and architects across the country, offering everything from tree surveys and ecology reports to full site clearance, fencing and landscaping. Our USP is the integrated nature of our offering –combining technical consultancy with on-the-ground delivery using in-house teams, modern equipment, and robust project management systems. This ensures joined-up thinking, reduced risk and exceptional service for our clients.

In the past year, we’ve expanded both our consultancy and contracting operations significantly. We’ve grown our ecology and arboricultural consultancy department, invested in specialist

Lesley Young at last year’s awards PA Awards enjoys positive response

Business Peak District (BPD) is a free membership organisation for businesses in the area covered by the Peak District National Park, High Peak, Staffordshire Moorlands and Derbyshire Dales. Its principal supporter is East Midlands Chamber, and it works closely with councils, the national park authority, the University of Derby as well as Visit Peak District and Derbyshire. BPD has more than 700 members. To find out more email members@businesspeakdistrict.com

machinery and secured new national framework agreements and large infrastructure contracts.

Being located in the Peak District has helped shape our approach. We understand the sensitivities of working in protected landscapes, and our teams are highly experienced in delivering environmentally responsible work in national parks, SSSIs and other ecologically significant areas.

Our central UK location also provides easy access to surrounding regions, making us a practical and trusted partner for major projects across the Midlands and beyond.

Doing business in the Peak District brings a sense of pride and responsibility. The area’s natural beauty and areas with protected status influence how we think, plan and operate. There is a strong sense of community and collaboration, and access to a skilled workforce that

values the environment. There are challenges too. Planning and regulatory constraints require technical understanding and careful navigation, something we’ve built into our team. Transport links and infrastructure can also be limited, so operational planning has to be sharp.

Looking ahead, the biggest threat to businesses like ours is the growing burden of compliance, skills shortages in the environmental and arboricultural sectors, and uncertainty around environmental policy and funding. We need continued support and flexibility from local and national stakeholders to meet these challenges head-on.

Networking groups such as Business Peak District can play a vital role in connecting organisations like ours. It also creates a platform to share knowledge, showcase success and advocate for the needs of businesses in rural areas.

The third annual East Midlands PA Awards have received more than 120 nominations, with the organisers offering a huge and heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to put forward their nominations.

The awards committee said it was overjoyed with such a positive response and support from organisations and individuals across the East Midlands.

Finalists have been invited to meet a panel of industry professionals to share more about their career and achievements, before enjoying a finalists networking event later in June.

The awards evening is held on Thursday 2 October, at Athena in Leicester.

The awards are run by Midlands events organiser, sector support body and networking specialist PA Forum with support from the Chamber.

If you would like to know more about the East Midlands PA Awards and PA Forum please contact PA Forum founder Daniel Skermer at Daniel@pa-forum.co.uk or Chamber executive support manager Lesley Young at Lesley.Young@emc-dnl.co.uk

Helping new businesses get up and running

The Chamber’s Employment Services team has had a strong start to the year. Programme service manager Blake Worthington (pictured) sums up the important work they are doing.

In the first week of April 2025 we proudly supported three new selfemployed businesses in launching their journeys – a powerful reminder that entrepreneurial spirit in the East Midlands is not only alive but thriving. These ventures represent more than just business ideas brought to life – they reflect ambition and a shared belief in the potential of our

region. As the individuals behind them took their first steps in business it has been a privilege to help guide and support them.

From business planning and registration to financial guidance and branding support, our Employment Services team has been hands-on every step of the way, ensuring they have a foundation on which to build sustainable, long-term success.

Since the beginning of the new financial year, we have helped six new East Midlands-based businesses start – each contributing to job creation and a sense of renewed optimism in the region.

Those businesses are Close Creations, flowers and gifts; Fayblade Games; Julie’s Cleaning Service; NeuroNook, neurodivergent-friendly

sensory toys; Timeless Visions and KCS Cleaning. As they grow, they will play an important role in strengthening the East Midlands’ reputation as a hub of innovation, resilience, and opportunity.

We know that the beginning of the financial year often brings a fresh perspective and renewed motivation for change, and we’re committed to making sure that momentum continues throughout the months ahead.

Preparing for a future whenrobotsdothework

Arecent report from the banking group Citi estimated that by 2050, there will be 650 million humanoids – robots in the shape of humans –working in the global economy. That equates to 88% of the estimated population of Europe.

East Asia is leading the way on this wider technological revolution, particularly in China where there are already factories made up 100% of robotics, with no humans, no light and no sound.

Change may not be happening at such pace in the UK but we have a reputation for savvy innovation where businesses modify existing machinery rather than facing the cost of replacing it entirely.

In the same way a smartwatch can track an individual’s health, technology can be applied to monitor outputs and productivity of a machine against mean time averages of failure.

Such predictive maintenance means new gear can be ordered ahead of time and the health of a machine can be monitored to predict when it needs servicing.

This avoids the traditional halt in production for maintenance week.

Predictive ordering is being put to good use in the hospitality industry where cafés are deploying technology to capture video footage on footfall.

Such monitoring can help them build a picture of their busiest times and inform staff behaviour accordingly, for example using the 30-minute window prior to a customer rush to clean the tables and put on fresh coffee.

Even technology once considered space-age or not for the masses is being embraced by UK businesses, particularly as prices become more affordable.

A robot dog can be acquired for as little as £2,500 and its ability to take videos, set off alarms and call the police could provide a greater deterrent to would-be thieves than a traditional guard.

This important yet modest investment not only has applications in the farming sector, which has seen a surge in theft of high-value agricultural vehicles, but to any business site where a

perimeter needs patrolling.

Businesses in the services industry – which contribute some 73% of GVA (gross value added) to the UK economy – can also derive great benefit from technology, particularly in their approach to customer services which can make or break their reputation. Customers are invariably looking for a solution to a problem and if a chatbot can help arrive at that quicker than a human, all the better.

The recruitment sector is also being transformed by technology. New recruitment platforms allow candidates to submit short videos of themselves as part of the job application process.

This provides recruiters a better understanding of the candidate’s strengths, saves time and speeds up the recruitment process.

New technology, particularly AI, can not only help a business save money, it can also make what was once a complex ‘dark art’ far more understandable.

A great example is SEO. For businesses reliant on winning new customers through web enquiries, it is a tempting option to call time on a monthly retainer with an SEO consultant and maintain rankings instead through a ‘self-serve’ approach – replacing the services of a human with ChatGPT which can offer its own support on keyword optimisation, content creation and the technical elements of SEO such as site structure and internal linking.

There are lots of considerations when bringing new technology into a business. Cost is obviously the first –

‘In China there are already factories made up 100% of robotics, with no humans, no light and no sound’

not only the upfront cost but any ongoing subscription, update or maintenance costs (and if maintenance isn’t included, who else might solve any future issues?).

Second is compatibility. Will the implementation work with your current systems?

Third is ease of use. Is training required, and has that been included in the cost?

Fourth is compliance, with both existing and planned legislation.

Finally, businesses need to ensure that the solution they are considering is future-proofed in that it not only addresses the challenges they are facing today but those they expect to face in the future.

With the sharp increase in employer NI contributions, could now be the time to seriously consider introducing robotics and automation to your business?

HOW ACCELERATOR CAN HELP

As part of the Accelerator project, businesses in Derbyshire (including Derby), Leicester and Nottingham are eligible for business support to help them

map out their approach to technology and identify funding and other support from the appropriate sources.

Contact the Chamber’s business support team on 0330 053 8639, info@emc-dnl.co.uk to arrange an exploratory meeting with a business adviser.

Alternatively, select your district from the dropdown box on the Accelerator landing page: www.d2n2growthhub.co.uk/accel erator/ and complete an expression of interest form.

Your first meeting with your business adviser will typically be around an hour long and will explore where you currently are, where you want to be, and ways in which you might get there.

WATCH THIS SPACE!

Topics for the next series of workshops and webinars will be launched shortly.

Businesses wishing to register their interest in the new project can do so by emailing info@d2n2growthhub.co.uk

Blind Screen offers a thermal revolution

International blind design and manufacturing business Blind Screen was set up in 2022 by entrepreneurs Lenny Reynolds and Paul Cheetham.

Based at Derby’s Pride Park, their products are manufactured in the UK and fitted by more than 1,000 national and independent blind companies nationwide.

Its next-generation thermal solution Blind ScreenTM 02 DT reduces heat loss by 49% –compared with just double glazing alone – but growth plans were hindered by a lack of funding and a lack of 3D CAD (computer-aided design) development skills.

‘The support received has been instrumental in the success of Blind Screen’s worldwide expansion’

Since then, the business has been supported by several programmes.

A Derby Innovation Accelerator grant from the University of Derby has helped support the mass production and worldwide distribution of its latest blind innovation, ZEDDFIT.

The business has also worked with the University of Derby on an accelerated KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) helping it develop new innovative products to bring 3D modelling in-house, enabling prototyping of its products with the use of a 3D printer.

This has led to reduced costs for the business and helped it stay ahead in a highly competitive market.

Innovate UK Business Growth funding and advice from East Midland Chamber’s innovation & growth specialist Neil McCluskey helped the business refocus and reposition its strategy.

The previous academic research from the KTP study showed that the Blind Screen product had advanced thermic properties, and the blinds could dramatically reduce heat loss through windows and help towards the UK’s Net Zero ambitions.

Funding from Innovate UK Business Growth enabled the business to perform an IP audit and identify and patent the Blind Screen designs and it now has the intellectual foundations on which to build a globally scalable business.

Support also came from Derby City Council’s Ascend programme, with a £25,000 loan and £10,000 grant towards capital investment and KTP costs.

The council also supported the business with a pilot test in a nursing home, alongside Derby University, to undertake some initial thermal testing of the blinds (both keeping heat in in the winter and heat out in the summer).

Paul Cheetham, marketing director of Blind Screen, said: “The support received has been instrumental in the success of Blind Screen’s worldwide expansion. We wouldn’t have been able to achieve this without it.”

L-R: Paul Cheetham, Derby South MP Baggy Shanker and Lenny Reynold

Robot guard dogs can take photos and even call the police

CHAMBER NETWORKS

BUILDING CONNECTIONS WITH YOUR PEERS AND BUSINESS LEADERS

Atmosphere at awards event will be electric!

The 2025 Generation Next Summer Festival and Awards are set to take place at one of the foremost outdoor events spaces in Derby city centre.

Electric Daisy in Bold Lane has been reserved for the awards hosted by the Chamber networking group for young executives, which takes place this year on 3 July.

The ceremony part of the festival will see 12 individuals singled out for their contribution to business in the East Midlands – with categories such as apprentice of the year, community impact champion, excellence in customer experience and innovator of the year.

‘It’s a night designed to reflect the energy, creativity and individuality of our Generation Next members’

They are delivered by East Midlands Chamber in partnership with headline sponsor the University of Derby and are a highlight in the network’s calendar, recognising professionals aged 18–35 for their innovation, ambition and impact.

As well as the awards, the event is being billed as a networking summer festival for members to let their hair down, make new contacts and have some fun.

Scarlett Canavan, business and marketing manager at ER

Recruitment, chairs Generation Next. She said: “The Generation Next Summer Festival and Awards aren’t your average business awards, and that’s exactly why they’re one of the most anticipated events in our Generation Next calendar.

“Think street food, summer vibes, a buzzing outdoor venue at Electric Daisy in Derby, a live DJ, and a relaxed atmosphere where sandals and trainers are welcome.

“It’s a festival-feel event designed to reflect the energy, creativity and individuality of our Generation Next members – and a brilliant celebration of young talent across the East Midlands.

“From future leader and entrepreneur of the year to creators and makers, and the talent development award – our categories shine a light on the incredible range of skills, stories and ambition shaping the future of our region. Whether you're just starting out, growing your career, or cheering on someone who inspires you, come along and join us.

“Everyone’s welcome – you don’t need to be a finalist to come along. So, book your ticket, bring your team or your friends, and get ready for a night of inspiration, connection and celebration.

“As chair, I may be biased that it’s one of the best award ceremonies - but genuinely, it is.”

For ticket details visit: is.gd/JOngQj

Hit the ale trail for networking with a twist

Generation Next is hosting a Networking Ale Trail in Derby later this month.

Hosted in partnership with Geldards and Network Derby, the event will bring a summer twist to networking with an exciting challenge-based route through Derby.

The fun and interactive evening

has been designed to bring young professionals together through light-hearted competition and an exploration of the city centre.

It will start at The Book Café (pictured) at 6pm on Wednesday, 25 June, where attendees can enjoy a welcome drink and team briefing before embarking on a trail of six fun challenges across

Derby’s local pubs and venues. Carnero Lounge will act as the Generation Next mission control for the evening and everyone will return to The Book Café to wrap up the night with food, networking, and a winners’ ceremony.

For booking details visit: is.gd/jEVzNd

Clockwise from above: 2024 Generation Next Awards host Kirsty Shelts, Preethi Kang and Customer Service Award winner Hayley Cousins; this year’s venue is Electric Daisy in Derby; Scarlett Canavan

Come along to our big reveal

The finalists in the Chamber’s 2025 Enterprising Women Awards will be announced at a summer networking event taking place in the grounds of a stunning stately home on the Leicestershire/Nottinghamshire border.

The Enterprising Women Summer Networking Event will take place at the Tipis at Whatton House, near Loughborough, with the event doubling up as the annual finalists announcement for the women’s networking group.

‘This special afternoon is all about connection, celebration and inspiration’

As well as sharing a glass of fizz and hearing who is lucky enough to have made it through to the awards finals, everyone who attends the summer event will get the added bonus of having a free professional headshot photograph taken by the on-site photographer –which can be used for promotional purposes on things such as LinkedIn, portfolios and future award nominations.

In a joint comment, Enterprising Women co-chairs Eileen Perry MBE DL and Jean Mountain said they were looking forward to hosting the afternoon and meeting members from across the region.

They said: “We are really looking forward to one of the most anticipated events in our calendar –the Enterprising Women Summer Networking & Finalist Announcement, taking place on 12 June at the beautiful Tipis at Whatton House.

“Set in the heart of 15 acres of stunning gardens, this special afternoon is all about connection, celebration and inspiration.

“It’s a chance to meet likeminded professionals, create new relationships and reflect on the amazing achievements of women across our region. The highlight of the event is, of course, the big reveal of our 2025 Enterprising Women Awards finalists.

“With so many exceptional entries this year, we’re hugely grateful to our judges and incredible sponsors for their thoughtful deliberation, narrowing down to just five finalists per category has been no easy task.

“Expect a relaxed yet uplifting atmosphere – enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, take time to unwind with a guided mindfulness and nature experience, and even update your professional image with a complimentary headshot from our on-site photographer.

“But more than anything, this event is about celebrating each other – championing the progress, innovation and resilience of women in business. When we come together like this, we’re reminded of the strength in our network and the power of lifting each other up.

“We can’t wait to see you all there as we gear-up for another incredible Enterprising Women Awards 2025.”

For summer networking ticket details visit: is.gd/qVfRK2

The actual Enterprising Women Awards evening is set to take place this September – and ticket details, along with the list of finalists, will be posted online at: www.emcdnl.co.uk/services/enterprisingwomen

VENUE HAS FASCINATING HISTORY

Whatton House – which remains a private family home – was built in 1802 for Edward Dawson and was bought by the first Lord Crawshaw in the 1870s when the Dawsons moved to Launde Abbey. Only a short time later a disastrous fire struck, leading to the house being almost entirely rebuilt in 1876.

The reconstructed house had 26 bedrooms which housed an army of cooks, maids, butlers and footmen, but various alterations have been made to it over the years, including the demolition in the 1950s of a large part of the back of the house to adapt it for modern living without a large staff.

Unaffected by the fire, the stable yard and the walled garden date from 1802, and many of the trees in the park and gardens are also more than 200 years old.

During World War II the house was offered as a maternity hospital by the then Lord Crawshaw and 2,324 babies were born there, mostly to mothers who were evacuated from the bombing in London. It wasn’t as peaceful as had been hoped because several bombs were dropped in the area and a house was destroyed only half a mile away. On 10 February 1941, 30 incendiary bombs fell in the grounds.

While the house remains a private home to the Crawshaws and hence closed to the public, the gardens are not to be missed.

The Tipis in the grounds of Whatton House

Visitors arrive for the venue’s Festimal24 event

Last year’s summer networking event

DIARY DATES

There will be a combined meeting of the Leicester and Leicestershire networks from 7.30-10.30am on 10 June, at De Montfort University.

The agenda for the meeting is:

• Opening address from chair Sandra Wiggins

• Update from Chamber director of policy and insight

Richard Blackmore

• Update from Make UK’s Ben Courts

• Open debate addressing members’ challenges and concerns, and the support on offer hosted by Sandra Wiggins

• Guest speaker from network member Structural Adhesives

• An introduction to R&D and innovation collaboration opportunities with De Montfort University, with head of commercial partnerships

Stuart Hilton

• A support update from network advisor Debbie Rogers.

The next Derby network meeting takes place from 7.3010.30am on June 24, at the premises of Pennine Healthcare. The agenda for the meeting is:

• Opening address from chair Mark Goldby

• Roundtable and introductions hosted by Mark Goldby

• Presentation and overview from Richard Cohen, of Pennine Healthcare

• Update from Chamber director of policy and insight

Richard Blackmore

• Update from Make UK regional manager, Midlands & East, Chris Corkan

• Support update from network advisor Debbie Rogers

• Factory tour.

For details and to sign up to these and other meetings visit: emmn.co.uk/events

Wirksworth businesses host network members

The May meeting of the East Midlands Manufacturing Network covering Derbyshire took place in the Derbyshire Dales. With two EMMN members based in Wirksworth and located just two miles apart, it was an opportunity for TDP and Aquabox to provide members with a ‘two for one’ away day.

The meeting started at the award-winning manufacturer of recycled plastic garden furniture TDP, with a tour of the manufacturing facilities.

‘A

great opportunity to showcase our unique position as a manufacturing charity’

Founder Rob Barlow shared a presentation on the business journey and its sustainable business values, which were recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development in 2023.

Members of the network then travelled to Aquabox, which is a charity run almost entirely by local volunteers. It produces water filters and sends emergency supplies in Aqua-aid boxes which are distributed around the world to countries suffering from natural and man-made disasters, providing safe drinking water to hundreds of thousands of people.

An upgrade of their production room and the introduction of lean manufacturing has enabled the charity to double production and network members heard how corporate partnerships are critical to help the charity make the most of their increased production capacity.

TDP managing director Rob Barlow said: “It was fantastic to see

sunny skies and smiling faces as we hosted the visit to TDP.

“Having the chance to show fellow manufacturers our furniture production process, how we use the circular economy model as our guide and explain a little about our sustainability ethos, was a privilege.”

Aquabox trustee Dominic Wish said: “This chance to show how Aquabox used lean manufacturing techniques to double our production

of lifesaving water filters was a great opportunity to showcase our unique position as a manufacturing charity.”

Roger Cassidy, the chair of trustees at Aquabox, said: “The visitors from East Midlands Manufacturing Network were very engaged as I demonstrated what we place in our Aqua-aid boxes and the logistics of sending aid around the world following natural or manmade disasters.”

WHAT IS THE EAST MIDLANDS MANUFACTURING NETWORK?

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

There are six networks running across the East Midlands in Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and each network meets every eight weeks throughout the year.

Member companies include Derby medical product manufacturer Pennine Healthcare, Castle Donington moulding and woodworking specialist Gordon Ellis and Co and Derby drill and cutting tool maker MA Ford Europe.

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

Members of the EMMN visit TDP and Aquabox (below)

TRAINING & EVENTS

BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE AND DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS

Celebrating our region’s high fliers

E(pictured) is looking forward to bringing together the region’s business leaders for her 2025 Celebration of Success this autumn.

The celebration takes place at The Renaissance at Kelham Hall, in Nottinghamshire, on Thursday, 9 October, and will be an opportunity for businesses to network with drinks and canapes and reflect on their successes so far in 2025.

The guest speaker is Dr Jo Salter MBE, who was Britain’s first female jet fighter pilot and someone who was voted one of the BBC’s 50 most inspiring women in the world.

Rejected twice by the RAF – when women weren’t allowed to fly – she was instrumental in changing the test policies for allowing new recruits into the air force.

She eventually went on to help create a stronger and more modern RAF as the first female leader of an all-male squadron.

The icing on the cake was when she was personally asked by Tom Cruise to the UK premiere of Top Gun Maverick as she was one of his inspirations for the film.

The evening will also include the announcement of the finalists for the three Chamber business awards covering Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

three awards nights set to take place next February and March.

Chamber president Dawn Whitemore said:

“I’m really looking forward to hosting this year’s event and to raising a glass to everyone that does so much to make this region so vibrant.

“The Celebration of Success is one of the highlights on the annual calendar of the president’s work with the Chamber.

‘It’s a chance for us all to celebrate the region as a whole and the Chamber’s vital role within it’

“It’s an opportunity to share with members our achievements over the previous months –and plans for the coming months – and a chance for the region’s business leaders to get together and network.

“Above all that it’s a chance for us all to celebrate the region as a whole and the Chamber’s vital role within it.

“I’ll also be looking forward to hearing about the finalists of this year’s three Chamber Awards covering Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.”

The Renaissance at Kelham Hall is set in 42 acres of picturesque gardens and manicured

lawns, offering a balance of elegance and grandeur at every turn.

Located in the heart of Nottinghamshire, the building was built as a private stately home in the 19th century, and today provides the perfect backdrop for weddings and events.

It was built by the Victorian architect Sir George Gilbert Scott after an earlier hall was destroyed by fire in 1857.

Scott later reused many of the design elements to create the facade of the Midland Hotel in London – now the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.

To attend the President’s Celebration of Success, visit the events page on the East Midlands Chamber website.

For sponsorship opportunities email the Chamber’s head of commercial partnerships Caroline Lucy at caroline.lucy@emc-dnl.co.uk

The Renaissance at Kelham Hall

Course will focus on the skills for team leadership

East Midlands Chamber is hosting a two-day effective team leader course at Woodborough Hall, Nottinghamshire on 10 and 11 June. This course will cover core areas of good practice for managing staff including motivation, personal organisation and planning, leadership and giving and receiving feedback. It will serve as an introduction to the key aspects of team leading and provide an opportunity for delegates to consider their performance and identify areas to improve It is suitable for aspiring or existing team leaders, supervisors or managers who require a practical, working knowledge of up-to-date techniques and good practice in managing teams and individuals.

It will help participants:

• Recognise the different knowledge, skills and behaviours required to supervise staff rather than work alongside them.

• Understand the scope of the team leader role including duty of care and the need to lead by example including fairness and integrity.

• Consider their leadership style and recognise when to support and challenge staff, especially during times of change.

• Learn techniques to communicate more effectively to their teams and individual team members, including the importance of giving and receiving feedback, and handling conflict.

• Know when and how to provide recognition for good work, and be more confident to tackle issues in the right way to create improved performance and to clarify expectations.

Lunch and refreshments are provided as part of this course which is being delivered in collaboration with training partner Challenge Consulting.

It will be held at a purpose-built training and conference centre in Nottinghamshire and is limited to a maximum of 12 delegates.

For details visit: is.gd/VLyhfb

Full house for AI and digital marketing event

Tickets for East Midlands Chamber’s AI and Digital Marketing Conference and Expo on 6 June – one of the biggest Chamber events of the year – have already sold out.

Taking place at Nottingham’s East Midlands Conference Centre, the conference is presented in conjunction with Chamber AI partner NetMonkeys – headline sponsor for the event. Designed for businesses and charities seeking to take advantage of AI opportunities in reaching new audiences, winning and retaining customers and improving sales & marketing productivity, more than 400 business owners and executives have ordered tickets.

It will offer delegates the opportunity to learn about the latest trends, real-life case studies and effective tactics to gain the best advantage for their businesses, and include expert speakers

giving informative talks on AI, machine learning, search engines, content creation, robotics and automation.

Keynote speaker Joyann Boyce is the chief executive of AI technology agency InClued.ai and known for TEDx talks on driving change in marketing.

Joyann combines a master’s degree in data science, specialising in bias detection and has worked with big brands such as Coca-Cola, Social Point, Adobe, and Nationwide.

Chamber deputy chief executive Diane Beresford said: “The Chamber’s digital conferences are always well-received, in large part because of the way in which our highly knowledgeable speakers bring even the most complex of subjects to life in a highly engaging and easy-to-understand way.”

Networking breakfast is chance to connect

East Midlands Chamber has teamed up with Barron McCann and Fusion Collective to host a Chamber Connect networking breakfast in June.

The dynamic networking breakfast takes place from 8:30am-10:30am on 11 June at the Barron McCann offices in Derby to bring local professionals together.

A Chamber spokesperson said: “Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, engaging conversations, and valuable opportunities to expand your network.

“Whether you're looking to build relationships, exchange ideas, or explore new business opportunities, Chamber Connect is the perfect place to connect and grow.

“This event is kindly hosted by Barron McCann in collaboration with Fusion Collective, bringing you an exciting opportunity to explore their state-of-the-art Innovation Hub.

“As part of the morning, guests will get the opportunity to have a complimentary professional headshot taken, perfect for updating your LinkedIn profile or company website. Don’t miss this chance to network over coffee and breakfast with like-minded professionals in your community.”

Chamber Connect Events are a special benefit for members, designed to help grow and build strong business connections. Non-members can attend for £20 plus VAT and experience how the group can support their business growth.

For booking details visit: is.gd/omczqy

If you are a Chamber member and you would like to host one of our networking events, please get in touch at membership@emc-dnl.co.uk

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Joyann Boyce, Nick Gall and Diane Beresford

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

Original eco warriors set to hit the Heights

Derbyshire’s oldest tourist attraction has long been an “underground overground” experience with cable cars, cavern tours, exhibitions and playgrounds – and has now caught the attention of The Wombles.

Great Uncle Bulgaria and litter-picking expert Orinoco are heading to the Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath this year to entertain the guests.

The new exhibition will appeal to older visitors who will remember watching the TV show in the 1970s, while younger visitors will be able to discover the Wombles for the first time, and learn about their passion for making good use of bad rubbish, recycling and being kind and considerate to one another.

Heights development director Rupert Pugh said: “Though for many the Wombles may seem just a nostalgic childhood memory, their ethos of ‘make good use of bad rubbish’ has made a longstanding contribution to environmental education.”

Universities aim to find waste solutions

Researchers from the universities of Nottingham, Newcastle and Bristol are receiving a £7m grant to develop sustainable technologies to reduce energy wastage.

The UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has awarded the funding to a team led by Dr Liliana de Lillo, a Royal Academy of Engineering Senior Research Fellow at the University of Nottingham – working with co-leads Dr Xu Deng and Dr Nick Simpson from Newcastle and Bristol universities.

It brings together world-leading experts in power electronics, electric propulsion, thermal management, machine design, materials and manufacturing. The next two decades will see a big change in the use of renewable energy sources, driven by Government targets to use low-carbon resources for 95% of energy generation by 2030.

PROFILE: FSG RETURNABLES

NAME AND JOB TITLE: LYNN JOHNSON, CEO

NAME OF BUSINESS: FSG RETURNABLES

LOCATION OF BUSINESS: NOTTINGHAM

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: FOUR

Q. TELL US WHAT YOUR COMPANY DOES?

A. FSG is a leading supplier of sustainable, reusable food and drinkware, having pioneered the reusables market in the UK and Ireland back in 2009. With a current turnover of £1m, we have seen a remarkable 300% growth since 2021 and are on track to achieve a 30% increase in profits year-on-year in 2025, underscoring our commitment to both sustainability and business expansion.

As chief executive of a growing business, my role encompasses the strategic direction and development of FSG. I am actively involved in overseeing sales, marketing and finance operations, ensuring that we remain aligned with our long-term goals while also focusing on day-to-day business activities.

Q. WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU PROVIDE?

A. We specialise in the supply and implementation of reusable food containers and cups. Our products are designed to be reused 1,000-plus times, replacing single-use packaging, providing both environmental benefits and cost-saving opportunities for businesses in various sectors, particularly foodservice operations.

Q. WHO ARE YOUR MAIN CUSTOMERS?

A. Our customers include food service operators looking to replace single-use disposable packaging with durable, reusable alternatives. By doing so, they can cut packaging costs by up to 50%.

We pride ourselves on taking a consultative approach, advising clients on the best return systems to implement, as well as helping them manage communications and drive behaviour change within their organisations. Our diverse client base includes government bodies, healthcare and education institutions, corporate offices, stadiums and community organisations.

Q. WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED?

A. Recently, our company has faced supply chain challenges, particularly extended delivery times from the Far East, due to the threat of

piracy. This has impacted product availability and freight costs. To address these challenges, we are planning to move manufacturing closer to home by onshoring production to the UK. This will improve product availability, reduce lead times and strengthen our local supply chain. We are also working with our Innovate UK advisor to secure funding which will enable us to set up manufacturing in the Midlands.

Q. WHAT ARE THE PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

A. Looking ahead, once we establish UK-based manufacturing, we plan to implement a closed-loop system for our reusable products. This will involve collecting end-of-life products for recycling and repurposing the materials back into new reusable products, further reducing waste and advancing our commitment to sustainability.

‘Our passion for sustainability drives everything we do’

Q. HOW HAS EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER HELPED YOU?

A. We’ve been members of the Chamber for several years, taking full advantage of their business training sessions and events. In November 2024, FSG received the Chamber’s Nottinghamshire Environmental Impact Award for helping stop more than 350 million singleuse disposables from reaching landfills, incineration, or becoming litter across the UK. Our passion for sustainability drives everything we do. We’re committed to helping businesses reduce their environmental impact while also providing cost-effective and practical solutions. We’re excited about the future and our continued ability to innovate and lead the way in sustainable packaging.

Orinoco and Tobermory at the Heights of Abraham

Lynn Johnson of FSG Returnables

Major milestone for a glass act

Unique Window Systems is celebrating 20 years in business making aluminium and UPVC windows, doors and curtain walling.

The Leicester business began in 2005, and since then has seen highlights including being named as one of the London Stock Exchange Group’s Top 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain as well as winning multiple business awards.

‘We’ve every intention of ensuring our success over the next 20 years and beyond’

In the last four years, management said turnover had grown from £20.8m to more than £45m, and in the last 12 months it has opened a new 65,000 sq ft factory for its UPVC product lines and undergone a rebrand.

Unique will mark its 20th anniversary year with 12 months of commemorative activity including customer-focused promotions, competitions and events.

Over the summer, the fabricator will also stage a party for its team and their families to thank them for their continued contribution to the company’s success.

Joint managing director Sunil Patel said: “Unique has continued to grow and prosper thanks to our entrepreneurialism, our commitment to quality, the calibre of our team and our belief in reinvesting back into our operations for the benefit of our staff and the customers we serve.

“Everyone at Unique is delighted and understandably proud that we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the company.

“On behalf of the senior management team, I would like to thank all our staff, customers and suppliers for their ongoing support over the years.

“Through an active programme of reinvestment and the continued development of both our business and our range, we’ve every intention of ensuring our success over the next 20 years and beyond is even more remarkable than that of the last two decades.”

Sustainability expert earns Peak partner role

A Nottinghamshire sustainability consultant has been named a bronze Peak Partner by the Peak District National Park Foundation for her work protecting and promoting the natural landscape.

Sophie Wragg, founder of Be Your Best Version, helps businesses across the region reduce their environmental impact. Her new partner role will see her support conservation projects across the national park, including habitat restoration, improving access to nature and protecting carbon-rich peat bogs.

She said: “I’ve lived on the doorstep of the Peak District my whole life. It’s where I went on day trips with my parents, and it’s where I took my own children.

“I’ve also worked with so many businesses in and around the peaks over the past year, so this felt like a really natural way to give something back.”

The Peak District National Park Foundation launched the Peak Partners scheme to bring together like-minded businesses and organisations that want to help care for the national park.

Funds raised through the programme support environmental and heritage projects, from planting wildflowers and creating wildlife corridors to preserving historic landscapes.

Sophie’s business operates out of Mansfield Innovation Centre. She said the chance to champion one particular cause – peatland restoration – was especially important.

Sophie Wragg of Be Your Best Version

Sunil Patel, joint managing director at Unique Windows

trentbarton mini-forest absorbs carbon and boosts area ecosystem

As trentbarton continues to grow their fleet, they began a fantastic partnership with Co-Treetment, where they initially funded the planting of 330 trees – one for each of their buses, as a celebration to mark Clean Air Day.

Following on from that initial planting commitment, in 2023 trentbarton committed to more trees, this time 262 (once again was linked directly to the number of buses in operation), making a total of 592 trees. And on 14 May 2024, Tom Morgan and Scarlet McCourt joined Simon Evans and Darrell Taylor of the CoTreetment team (pictured) in Thringstone for a walk, talk and photo session, surrounded by bees and trees.

A further 262 trees have been added to the trentbarton mini-forest, making a total of 854 trees. This is a sign of the ongoing commitment they have for making the planet a better place; not only will these trees absorb 21,350 kg of carbon each year (427,000 kg over 20 years, which is the commitment made to trentbarton customers), they add a significant boost to the ecosystem and wildlife in the area.

This of course helps to offset some of trentbarton fleet emissions. It also underlines their commitment to investing in cleaner, greener public transport to improve air quality, something that’s evident from their recent investments in all electric buses. Over the past seven years, trentbarton has spent more than £25m on greener buses and is exploring zero emission buses for the future.

Co-Treetment said: “It’s great that trentbarton is partnering with us in our mission to plant

more trees in the region. Offsetting their carbon footprint locally through planting trees directly absorbing carbon from the atmosphere reduces the rate of climate change with every additional tree planted.

“Everybody needs to travel, even if it’s locally – using public transport, buses, trains or cars. It all has an impact, and we all need to do more to try to combat climate change.

“Trees don’t just absorb carbon; they pull water from the ground so that helps prevent flooding. They cleanse the air so if you’re near busy roads you get a better air quality.”

In 2025 trentbarton will have planted over 1,000 trees, making them one of the largest customers with Co-Treetment. As they continue

to invest in new buses, the forest will keep expanding, creating woodland spaces that will absorb carbon, not just for today but for decades into the future.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

SUPPORT, STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES FOR EXPORTERS AND IMPORTERS

Reset will boost trade with Europe damaged by Brexit

East Midlands Chamber has welcomed the outcomes of the UK and EU “reset” talks, saying the agreements made will help ease some of the challenges businesses have faced since Brexit.

The UK/EU summit in May concluded with a number of positive outcomes for British businesses including:

• The removal of routine checks on plant and animal products

• Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement on food and drink import and export

• Closer cooperation on emissions

• British steel exports protected from EU tariffs

• The use of fast track eGates at EU borders being opened to British passport holders. Chamber head of international trade Lucy Granger (pictured) said: “After such a prolonged and frustrating time for firms importing or exporting goods with the EU, where moving even small amounts of goods has been prohibitively expensive and reams of unnecessary paperwork time-consuming, these agreements are a welcome step forward and pave the way for further improvements.

“Getting agreement and removing most routine checks on animal and plant products will make a big difference to businesses trading with the EU, as will the sanitary and phytosanitary deal – that enables everything from burgers to sausages to be shipped without costs getting in the way.

“There’s still more that can be achieved – a return to the Pan Euro Mediterranean Convention would mean alignment on rules for components and raw materials, taking out another cost and an exemption on fiscal representation on VAT in the EU would remove another hurdle for businesses, so it’s essential the government build on this first stage of talks.”

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, called the

summit a “turning point in UK/EU relations which puts our trade relationship at the forefront of our partnership going forward”.

‘A permanent deal to remove unnecessary checks on food and drink exports in both directions is a huge boost; it will cut costs, reduce waste and increase sales’

She said: “For four years, businesses have fought hard to sustain sales to the EU in the face of a rising tide of costs and paperwork which has severely dented their competitiveness.

“A permanent deal to remove unnecessary checks on food and drink exports in both directions is a huge boost; it will cut costs, reduce waste and increase sales.

“It was also essential that a defence and security pact was agreed to involve UK defence companies in wider projects to safeguard our democracies. It is vital now that work starts on agreeing access to joint procurement funding.

“Making quick progress on the use of E-gates at passport control will make life easier for businesspeople who cross EU borders on a regular basis and also boost UK tourism.

“This summit also saw encouraging movement on other issues that have long been a thorn in

the side of many firms. A commitment to focus on securing a youth mobility scheme and linking our emission trading schemes will make life simpler and less costly for many businesses.

“The BCC had seven key asks of Government going into these negotiations which were based on four years of research and analysis involving thousands of firms… [the] deal is good news on five of those. But we must not stop here, this agreement must be the foundation on which we aspire to build a much stronger business relationship going forward. That can only be of benefit to all our economies.”

Dr Guillaume Wilemme, a lecturer in economics at the University of Leicester School of Business, said: “The deal aims to reduce some of the red tape introduced post-Brexit, making it easier for British producers to import intermediate goods from the EU and export to the EU.

“For consumers, the impact will be visible in the supermarkets, as chains will be able to source more products from the EU at lower costs.

“Regarding fishing agreements, it is important to consider the bigger picture – exports and imports of seafood will also be made easier with this trade deal. For instance, the UK imports most of its cod from the EU, while it exports mackerel and herring to the EU. This means that fish and chips may be cheaper than in the absence of a trade deal.”

The UK is strengthening its relationship with the EU

The impact of some of Donald Trump’s tariffs has been mitigated

Chamber cheers deal to limit impact of US tariffs

The Chamber’s head of international trade has welcomed a swiftly agreed deal that will limit the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs on the UK economy.

The Government said the deal – which cuts the US tariff on steel and aluminium from 25% to zero and the tariff on cars from 25% to 10% – will protect thousands of UK jobs and save hundreds of millions of pounds a year for Jaguar Land Rover alone.

However, Trump’s blanket 10% tariffs on imports from countries around the world still applies to most UK goods entering the US.

Chamber head of international trade Lucy Granger said: “After such a protracted time of uncertainty, businesses will welcome this step forward to ensure continuation of smooth trading with the US, especially the automotive industry and those exporting steel or aluminium.

“While this agreement is welcome, ongoing discussion must still take place as we still have 10% tariffs on exports, we’re in a weaker position

than we were a year ago and we need more detail on pharmaceuticals, agriculture and other sectors, so building on this agreement and improving the deal is still needed. Political leaders must not close the book on this – they should be continuing negotiations.

“The Chamber stands ready to support and advise businesses on international trade and the protection of foreign exchange and I’d urge firms to get in touch so we can advise accordingly.”

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “This deal will be met with a huge sigh of relief by many British businesses. The reduction in the 25% tariffs on most of our automotive exports and the removal of levies on steel and aluminium are the biggest wins.

“These sectors had been left reeling as jobs, investment and sales were all cut or put on hold. This framework agreement will give them some much needed certainty.”

Course will explore trade relationship with Ireland

It takes place from 9.30am-12.30pm on Thursday 12 June.

Since the UK’s departure from the EU in 2021, the trade relationship with Ireland has been continually evolving – from the initial UK/EU Trade and Cooperation agreement and the accompanying Northern Ireland Protocol to the Windsor framework and the UK’s revised Border Operating Model.

As a consequence, many companies have been left grappling with ongoing changes and challenges. The session will explore aspects of the trade relationship in detail including customs agreements, regulations and the support available.

This course is suitable for anyone involved in trade with either Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, who would like a better understanding of both recent and forthcoming change to the import, export and trade process.

To sign up visit: is.gd/rC3Bh9

Port and

The German city of Krefeld Charity hosts mayor from German twin

Leicester creative youth charity The Mighty Creatives hosted a visit from the mayor of Krefeld, in Germany, as part of a cultural exchange initiative celebrating the longstanding twinning relationship between the two cities and to discuss the challenges facing young people.

Krefeld mayor Frank Meyer was accompanied by Krefeld councillor Lena Wagner for the visit which included a lunch reception in Leicester, sponsored by East Midlands Chamber.

It was also attended by City of Leicester European Twinning Association (CLETA) board members Fred and Viv Rankin, John Townsend of East Midlands Chamber and Christopher Mellies, the chairman of Jugendring in Krefeld, which is a voluntary association of Krefeld youth organisations.

Thanks to the support of Leicester City Football Club, The Mighty Creatives was able to invite some of the overseas delegation to Leicester City’s match against Liverpool.

Dr Nick Owen MBE, chief executive of The Mighty Creatives, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to engage with international leaders and build meaningful connections beyond borders.

“We were honoured to host Mayor Frank Meyer and to continue strengthening the bond between Leicester and Krefeld through the energy and creativity of our youth and culturally-rich cities. It’s been an inspiring exchange of ideas, creativity and culture.”

Rolls-Royce reports positive start to 2025

Global engineering giant Rolls-Royce Plc has reported a strong start to the year, despite the “degree of uncertainty” over Donald Trump’s global trade tariffs and continued supply chain challenges.

The Derby-headquartered business said it was maintaining its 2025 guidance of £2.7bn-£2.9bn of underlying operating profit, with year-on-year improvements in profit and cash flow and demand for its products and services remaining strong.

Chief Executive Tufan Erginbilgic said: “Our transformation of Rolls-Royce is progressing strongly and we continue to expand the earnings and cash potential of the business.

“We are creating a more resilient and agile Rolls-Royce that is better equipped to respond to changes in the external environment. As a result, we have had a strong start to the year.”

East Midlands Chamber is holding an online session aimed at clearing up some of the red tape surrounding trading with the island of Ireland.

cruise terminal of Dublin

Loughborough to get digital skills facility

Work has begun on a hub in Loughborough to equip people with digital skills for the future.

Loughborough Town Deal is providing £2.6m for the project to create a Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College.

As well as helping residents increase their employability, the hub will work with local employers to deliver work placements.

It is one of 11 projects Loughborough Town Deal is backing after securing £16.9m of funding. In total, the projects are worth more than £40m of investment for the town.

Martin Traynor OBE, Loughborough Town Deal chair, said: “It is great news that work has begun to build the Digital Skills Hub at Loughborough College.”

College principal and chief executive Corrie Harris said: “Breaking ground on our Digital Skills Hub marks an exciting milestone in the continued growth of our campus.”

The hub is expected to be open in November and will support the delivery of T Levels, apprenticeships, industry placements and higher technical qualifications.

Transformation begins as cinema demolished

The old Galaxy picture house in Long Eaton has been demolished after Erewash Borough Council helped secure almost £25m of government Town Deal funding for local regeneration projects.

The crumbling cinema – which has blighted the centre of town since closing more than a decade ago – will be replaced by commercial units, townhouses and flats, including some homes for affordable rent.

Richard Ledger, chairman of the Long Eaton Town Deal Board, said: “This is the first step in transforming Galaxy Row into a vibrant hub of homes and businesses, and we're committed to keeping the community informed every step of the way.”

The council has partnered with developer MyPad and affordable housing association Tuntum for the construction project, which is expected to be completed in August.

New cabinets taking shape after elections

New leadership teams have taken over at the region’s three county councils following May’s local government elections.

Reform UK won majorities in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and will lead Leicestershire after no party won an overall majority there.

The councils are responsible for services such as education, social care, planning, transport and libraries.

At Leicestershire County Council, Councillor Dan Harrison has been confirmed as leader, and Councillor Joseph Boam as his deputy,

The new cabinet is made up of:

• Councillor Helen Butler – resources

The remaining seats on that council are 12 Conservatives, three Labour and Co-operative, three Liberal Democrats, two Green Party and two Independents.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, the Labour leader of Derby City Council, said it was important for the region that the county and city councils continued to support one another. She said: “Derby City Council remains committed to close collaboration with Derbyshire County Council in areas where our joint efforts can drive strategic economic development across our area and secure the best possible outcomes for the people we serve.

• Councillor Charles Pugsley – children’s services (SEND)

• Councillor Joseph Boam – adult social care (libraries)

• Councillor Charles Whitford – highways, transport, flooding and waste

• Councillor Harrison Fowler – strategic planning and economic development (growth)

• Councillor Michael Squires – health

• Councillor Adam Tilbury – environment

• Councillor Virge Richichi – communities and staff relations

Councillor Paul Harrison, who represents the Coalville South division, has been appointed chairman and Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray, who represents Loughborough North West, has been appointed as vice-chairman of the council.

In Derbyshire Reform UK took 42 seats out of a total of 64 seats on the council.

The new leader is Councillor Alan Graves (pictured), who represents the Aston Division and stood for mayor of the new East Midlands Combined County Authority last year, and the deputy leader is Councillor Rob Reaney, who represents the Sutton Division.

“We anticipate working in partnership on significant issues, such as Local Government Reorganisation, the Derby and Derbyshire Waste Treatment Centre and working closely with Derbyshire and the other constituent authorities of East Midlands Combined County Authority.”

The leading political positions at Nottinghamshire County Council are:

• Councillor Mick Barton – leader

• Councillor John Doddy – deputy leader

• Councillor Martin Wright – business management

• Councillor Barry Answer – adult social care

• Councillor Rory Green – children and families

• Councillor Dawn Justice – communities and public health

• Councillor James Walker-Gurley – economic development and asset management

• Councillor Hana John – education and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

• Councillor Stuart Matthews – finance and resources

• Councillor Bert Bingham – transport and environment

Council building in Nottingham

Council is making ‘positive progress’

Commissioners working with Nottingham City Council have highlighted “much positive progress” in developing plans for improvement and “a clear direction on instituting reforms”.

The comments came in the commissioner’s second report since being appointed by the Government to oversee improvements at the council in February 2024.

Commissioners were brought in to oversee the council’s improvement, reshaping frontline services and ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the council in the wake of a multi-million-pound funding gap.

‘It has adopted clear direction in instituting a wide range of reforms, some of which are bearing fruit’

In a letter about the report to council leader Councillor Neghat Khan, the government’s parliamentary under-secretary of state for housing and local government, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, said: “I am pleased that the leadership team at Nottingham, while still relatively new, are working closely with the commissioner team to move the council towards a more sustainable position and improve its service delivery and financial stability.”

In their report, lead commissioner Tony McArdle, commissioner for finance Margaret Lee and transformation commissioner Sharon Kemp, said that over the past year, there has been “much positive progress on developing plans, strategies, and programmes for improvement such as the council plan, medium term financial plan and improvement plan along with securing and organising the necessary capacity to deliver”.

The report says that over the coming year, the council will need to move into the implementation phase and for these plans to have the right impact.

Commissioners also commented that although the council continues to operate beyond its means and is dependent on exceptional financial support from the government, “it has adopted clear direction in instituting a wide range of reforms, some of which are bearing fruit but all of which will need to become embedded in order to deliver full benefit”.

They say that the council’s new leadership is “facing up to the challenges that the council must tackle in full acceptance of the reality of the council’s difficulties and with a declared resolve to overcome them”.

In a joint commenting on the report, Cllr Khan and the chief executive Sajeeda Rose said: “While the report rightly highlights that challenges remain, we are fully committed to continued improvement.”

City’s pollution decline is a breath of fresh air

The air quality in Leicester continues to improve, according to the city council.

The council said that averages for 2024 (the most recent available) show that for the third year running Leicester was fully compliant with all national air quality objectives for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and harmful particulates. It said that over the last 10 years, annual levels of NO2 have fallen by an average of around 45% at the city’s five air quality monitoring stations in Vaughan Way, Abbey Lane, Melton Road, St Matthews Way and Glenhills Way.

The council said the city was compliant with national limits for all main pollutants.

Councillor Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “It is very encouraging that Leicester has now been fully complaint with national limits for all pollutants for three years running, but we know there is still more to be done. We remain committed to further reducing levels of harmful air pollution to help positively impact on the health and wellbeing of everyone who lives, works or spends time in Leicester.”

The council plans to expand the air quality monitoring network, with targeted interventions and awareness-raising campaigns with schools, communities and businesses. It also plans to expand the network of routes for walkers and cyclists and continue to invest in bus services, including hopefully making every bus in the city electric by 2030.

Authority launches major growth plan

The East Midlands Combined County Authority has launched its vision for growth at the UK’s biggest development, investment and regeneration event, UKREiiF.

The UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum, which took place in Leeds in May, was a national showcase of property investment and development opportunities.

It routinely attracts more than 15,000 delegates and this year the region came together in an East Midlands Pavilion.

Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward used the opportunity to launch a new Spatial Vision, promoting development opportunities that could eventually deliver 100,000 new jobs; 52,000 new homes; £4.6bn of economic contribution per year; and 4.2 million square metres of commercial floorspace.

The vision includes opportunities in Derby and Nottingham, the UK’s £410m STEP Fusion

nuclear energy pilot project at West Burton, as well as investment potential in the region’s towns and villages and key tourism destinations.

Claire Ward said: “This is the start of a stepchange in the performance of the East Midlands economy, which combines industries that matter to the whole of the UK and projects critical to our future energy security.

“These opportunities will be game-changers for the East Midlands and the UK as a whole, and our Spatial Vision provides a clear roadmap for joined-up delivery that matches investment to infrastructure and skills.”

EMCCA chief executive Amy Harhoff said: “We have a £55bn economy and we’re a region of global strengths in key industries like aerospace, automotive, life sciences and clean energy.

“Investing here means joining a powerful ecosystem of industry, talent and ambition –the foundation of the UK’s future prosperity.”

East Midlands Combined County Authority mayor Claire Ward and chief executive Amy Harhoff

Leicester’s Town Hall Square

Nottingham main Market Square

FEATURES

TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON ISSUES AND SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS

Conflicted about conflict resolution?

It can be difficult to avoid conflict in the workplace. From fridge raiders wreaking havoc every lunchtime to disagreements over ideas and opinions, even the smallest conflict can have a big impact on productivity, morale and motivation –which makes conflict resolution an essential skill to have in the workplace. Conflict resolution training will not only teach your staff how to communicate effectively, compromise and collaborate with each other, but it could also boost your bottom line too. Business Network explores some of the benefits of investing in conflict resolution training for your staff.

IMPROVE COMMUNICATION

Conflict resolution training can improve communication skills right across your workforce. It will give your staff the tools to adequately articulate their issues calmly, and teach them how to implement outcomes that work for everybody. Improved communication will, in turn, build respect and trust in the workplace, as your staff will know how to make difficult conversations easier for all involved in them.

Senior employees and team leaders will be able to lead by example, serving as peacekeepers within their teams, while junior employees will gain the confidence to speak up and advocate for their work and their ideas. If you have a customer care department, conflict resolution training will also help your staff better communicate with difficult customers.

BETTER RELATIONSHIPS

Improved communication leads to better working relationships. Staff who are constantly locked in arguments will not want to collaborate together or listen to each other’s ideas, no matter how good they may be.

Conflict resolution training can overcome this by helping your staff build solid working relationships; they will be taught to recognise each other’s strengths and the art of constructive feedback – how to give it and, most importantly, how to take it.

WORK AS A TEAM

With conflict resolution training, you can also improve your staff’s team-building skills. Through the training, they will learn how to discuss, rather than debate (or argue!) the issues at hand. They will also learn how to understand people with different points of view and how to work together without bias getting in the way. Additionally, working on their techniques to manage conflicts will also have a positive effect on your staff’s problem-solving skills, as they will learn how to work together to reach a common goal.

Avoiding workplace conflict and supporting staff when it arises help create a positive atmosphere

BOOST PRODUCTIVITY

Ask yourself how much time and energy are wasted on workplace conflicts. Disputes take vital time away from projects, which can mean deadlines are missed, money is wasted and opportunities are lost.

The emotional toll of a workplace dispute alone can hinder creativity and innovation, which then restricts the company’s growth.

Firms that offer conflict-solving training are essentially offering a favourable and productive workplace, which leads to reduced employee turnover and increased employee satisfaction. No one wants to work in a powder keg. Decreased absenteeism (workplace stress is a major cause of sick leave) due to a less toxic

workplace will also have a positive impact on productivity and growth.

ATTRACT TOP TALENT

A positive work environment and opportunities for development are huge draws for potential candidates, so if you’re looking to grow your workforce, offering conflict resolution training ticks both boxes. Young people especially are more mindful of working for companies that take a stance on discrimination, bullying and biases. They are also attracted to companies that offer opportunities to boost their skill sets and care about helping them become more well-rounded individuals. Offering training shows that you are committed to the development of your staff.

Podcasts get you up close and personal

By Ian Pringle (pictured), director of audio, Listening Shelf Audio

What is a podcast? Well, here is my definition: a podcast is a dialogue-based audio production, made for an audience of one. Let me break that down a little further for you.

DIALOGUE-BASED

A podcast is focused on communication between other humans. The consumer is listening in on a conversation of some kind. That might be between two people in an interview, it might be one expert expressing their views in an essay or narrative format, it might be a drama or comedy performance, but in all these contexts the main driver is some kind of dialogue. In basic terms, this is a dialogue between you and your customer.

AN AUDIO PRODUCTION

A podcast is something people listen to. People do now film their podcasts and upload them on YouTube and this has some benefits, but I think we need to be clear that what sets a podcast aside from a video is that a podcast is, above all else, an audio only format.

The main reason that podcasts are so popular is because people listen to them, and this has the major advantage that people can consume podcasts while doing other more mundane tasks, such as chores around the house, driving the car or walking the dog. As soon as you add a screen into the mix, you increase the likelihood of creating distance between the content and the viewer.

Let’s explore the terms ‘listener’ and ‘viewer’. Listener implies a connection and a participation and a way that feels more absent when viewing. There is evidence in neuroscience that

the brain is more active and has to work harder when listening than when simply viewing. It is not without reason that Peggy Noonan coined the phrase “radio has the best pictures”.

What she meant by this is that when listening to a description or a conversation in audio only, we paint the images in our own mind’s eye and we entangle our own lives and experiences with those represented between our ears. In essence, to listen to something we have to engage more of our cognitive processes and more of our imagination. By doing so we creating stronger memory of and connection to the content.

AN AUDIENCE OF ONE

It is this distinction that makes podcasting so powerful for business. You have the potential of connecting with a customer or future customer as they go about their normal daily activities alone, often while wearing headphones.

This is a very intimate relationship and has the potential of building a very strong connection to your brand or message. It is just you and them together, if they choose to listen to the content you have created they will begin to develop a strong relationship with you and what you represent. You will begin to create a bond through a shared views and ideas. If they continue to listen then you will build a significant amount of trust which will likely over time increase the chances of this person investing time and potentially money in your message, service or product.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you are thinking of setting up a podcast for your business then, before you purchase any equipment, set up a podcast host or book any guests, ask yourself “who am I having a dialogue with and what content would help build a trusting closer relationship between us?”.

‘If they choose to listen to the content you have created they will begin to develop a strong relationship with you and what you represent’

FOCUS

TO TIE IN WITH EAST MIDLAND’S CHAMBER’S PEOPLE AND SKILLS CONFERENCE AT LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY ON 24 JUNE, THIS MONTH’S BUSINESS NETWORK FOCUS SECTION CONSIDERS THE CONTRIBUTIONS STAFF MAKE TO INDUSTRY – AND THE WORK BEING DONE TO SUPPORT PEOPLE ACROSS THE REGION.

COLLEGE AIMS TO GIVE EVERYONE AN EQUAL CHANCE

Louise Knott is vice-principal at West Nottinghamshire College, which has 11,000 full and part-time students. She has responsibility for communications, engagement and student experience. Here she talks to Business Network about the work the college does to ensure it provides an inclusive learning environment.

Q. Has inclusivity always been part of the college ethos?

A. Yes, further education colleges have always been somewhere where young people and adults, who maybe haven't done so well in education up to that point, can have their second chance.

We’ve prided ourselves over the last few years on really rooting our offer in the local communities in Mansfield and Ashfield and have worked really hard on our inclusive offer. For example, we have a hugely successful supported internship programme, offering a programme of study to get young people with some form of additional need or disability into sustainable work.

We do a lot of intensive work with those individuals and then they go out as an intern on placement with employers for two days a week –which hopefully leads to sustainable work.

At the end of the programme 75% of our supported interns achieve that aim.

We work in partnership with a lot of employers, but we have a particularly good relationship with Capita Mansfield. They have employed getting on for 15 of our interns now and they see the business benefits of this – that it’s not just about corporate social responsibility but, just like a lot of our local employers, they have faced a real recruitment challenge.

What Capita Mansfield has found is that interns are really loyal, are really hard working, and they bring a completely different perspective into the business. They've also changed the outlook of existing employees at Capita in terms of how they view disability. They have made such a difference that Capita is looking at how they can roll this programme out nationally.

So, for the employer, there are benefits, but for the individual, it's frankly life-changing.

When you talk to some of our interns they

Others are doing more manual tasks, while some are working in hospitality and customer service. One of our very first interns, Ellie, achieved a paid role as a gallery assistant at Mansfield Museum and received a promotion to museum development officer the following year.

Q. What challenges do the students face in life?

A. They have a bunch of issues and disabilities. Some are hearing impaired, we’ve got some students that have autism, ADHD and who are neurodiverse. We have some students who have physical disabilities. It covers the full spectrum.

would have never dreamed that, when they started at college, they would end up with paid employment, getting themselves up in the morning, getting themselves into work, and earning a living. We started delivering supported internships five years ago and we’ve gone from zero to about 20 interns a year.

They are going to a huge range of jobs. At Capita, for example, we've got students doing some jobs around the engineering side of things, we've got students working on sending out some of the official documents for government that Capita Mansfield deals with.

Q. How do you see them develop and come out of their shells?

A. As an example, before Ellie started the internship programme, she couldn't travel independently. Part of the programme was about enabling her to travel and she did a very emotional speech at her graduation where she said getting to places under her own steam was life-changing. It also helped her go out with her mates and socialise independently.

One young man was effectively mute – he didn't speak at all – and again, he stood up at his graduation and gave a speech about his internship. He was also brave enough to stand up in front of the chief executive of Capita when he visited the Mansfield site. It's wonderful.

Parents tell us they never dreamed that their child would go on to work and be happy and confident.

‘We started delivering supported internships five years ago and we’ve gone from zero to about 20 interns a year’

Louise Knott, vice-principal at West Nottinghamshire College

West Nottinghamshire College intern Jamie Bradley at Capita

West Nottinghamshire College intern Olivia Krasinskiat Notts County Council

Q. What about children coming from care backgrounds?

A. We do quite a lot of work around that. Two years ago, we set up a specific team to work alongside colleagues at Nottinghamshire County Council to support young people in care to access education successfully. Just 6% of young people in care go on to university degrees – compared to getting on for 40% of all young people nationally. It’s just awful. All too often those young people end up NEET (not in education, employment or training). Half the prison population has been in care. So, in 2023, our governors agreed that we would recognise their experience as a protected characteristic in the same way you would ethnicity and disability. I’m really pleased that there is now very little gap between our care experienced younger people and the rest of our student body.

We’ve linked with employers, so can take those students out on visits to local employers to see the jobs that they could be able to do. We work with some amazing employers that are really committed to making a difference to those young people’s lives.

Q. Would you like more employers to work with you?

A. We’d love more employers to get on board. Some of the feedback we have had is that there is still this fear factor about taking somebody on that might have more challenges than most. The college can work with employers to take away some of that fear. One thing we do is something called job carving, which is about taking a job and then carving it up into manageable chunks which helps somebody with a disability understand all the things that they need to do for that role.

The employers we’ve worked with have found that enormously helpful and many have made it part of their recruitment processes.

Q. Tell us about the Step-Up and Progress Hub

A. In September 2023 we took over the Mansfield Education Hub. It’s a small facility in the centre of the town with 70 students who haven’t accessed mainstream education – young people that have either been in alternative provision or in some cases, home educated. It’s a stepping stone programme to get them ready to study on our mainstream campuses.

And then at the Derby Road campus, we have another aspect of the Step Up and Progress curriculum, mainly for young people with some form of disability or special educational needs. There are about 115 students there, and again it’s preparing them for either independent living or to move into some form of vocational studies and then employment.

I am immensely proud of the work we have done, and will continue to do, to make sure our college is as inclusive as it can be. We aim to make sure no-one gets left behind and everyone has the chance to achieve their dreams.

SKILLS ARE KEY TO ECONOMIC GROWTH

Through a range of keynote speakers, workshops and panel discussions the Chamber’s 2025 People and Skills Conference will focus on the key areas that enable economic growth –through the targeting skills reform, improved recruitment and retention, and how to develop sustainable interventions that support better business engagement with educators.

This year’s conference takes place from 9am1.30pm on 24 June, in the West Park Teaching Hub, on the Loughborough University Campus. Admission is free via the events page on the East Midlands Chamber website.

One of the topics covered on the day will be a look at the region’s business approach to equality, diversity and inclusion – focusing on research undertaken by the Chamber and emh Group in 2024, following a similar study the year before. The session will explore how best to support businesses in their EDI journey, creating more inclusive and successful workplaces, businesses and those that support them.

The East Midlands Business Approaches to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion research, revealed a rise in businesses adopting an EDI policy. More than 300 East Midlands businesses took part in the research, and among the headline recommendations were to bring EDI learning into leadership training and celebrate best EDI practice.

Chan Kataria OBE, chief executive of emh Group, said: “We’ve seen a positive shift in the number of members with an EDI policy compared to last year. The desire from participants to “do the right thing” around EDI is also reflected in some of the barriers that have been reported – these give us a clear focus for future discussions, collaborations, and support.

“In addition, there is more to do around sharing practices that demonstrate the tangible contribution of EDI to the bottom-line success of a business.”

The event is being held in partnership with Loughborough University and West Nottinghamshire College, and supported by Capita, Curium, Derby College Group, emh Group, ER Recruitment, Freeths, Futures, Ideagen, PPL PRS, TGD and Working Well East Midlands, with funding from UK Government.

For more details email policy@emc-dnl.co.uk To book tickets visit: is.gd/VH7ecF

West Nottinghamshire College’s Derby Road campus in Mansfield

West Nottinghamshire College intern Joe Brimson at Capita

Loughborough University will host the event

Delegates at a previous skills conference

SKILLED WORKERS WILL POWER A GREEN FUTURE

Creating a skilled workforce is key to the hydrogen economy which is set to play a major role in the global shift to sustainable energy, according to experts at Loughborough University.

Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis using renewable energy, offers a clean alternative to fossil fuels – but to make hydrogen technologies work, the UK needs people with the right skills and knowledge to manage hydrogen production, storage and use.

EnerHy CDT – the UK Research and Innovation Centre for Doctoral Training in Engineering Hydrogen Net Zero – is stepping up to meet this challenge.

Led by Loughborough University, in partnership with Cranfield University and the University of Strathclyde, EnerHy CDT is part of the UK's biggest investment in engineering and physical sciences training.

‘Our goal is to develop future leaders to enable rapid growth in green hydrogenrelated technology’

It collaborates with more than 60 industry and civic partners to advance green hydrogen technology and wind energy – and develop a skilled workforce for a sustainable, net-zero future.

EnerHy director Dani Strickland, a Loughborough University professor of electrical power engineering, said: “Our goal is to develop future leaders to enable rapid growth in green hydrogen-related technology.

“We welcome researchers from various backgrounds, including STEM, business and social sciences. This approach ensures that the workforce is both technically skilled and ready

to tackle broader challenges like social acceptance and policy development.”

She said partnerships were crucial for achieving EnerHy’s goals, including big organisations such as BOC, Cadent, Caterpillar, ESB and SSE as well as regional developers and local councils.

Prof Strickland said: “Working with such a diverse range of partners allows us to tackle the complex challenges of the hydrogen economy from multiple angles.”

As an example, EnerHy is working with Caterpillar – which has its UK headquarters in Leicestershire – on hydrogen-fuelled engines and power systems for heavy machinery and industrial applications.

EnerHy offers fully-funded studentships, giving aspiring hydrogen innovators, researchers and specialists the chance to gain hands-on experience and contribute to important research and innovation.

Prof Strickland said: “We are committed to driving skills, innovation, and productivity to create a hydrogen superpower in the East Midlands.”

Ahuman resources professional at the Amazon fulfilment centre in Sutton-inAshfield has described how Amazon’s training and development opportunities have helped further her professional goals.

Originally from Romania, Diana Frunza came to the UK with her husband and son in 2017. Since finding work with Amazon, she said she had been able to use its Career Choice programme to further her training.

The programme, which has been running at Amazon in the UK since 2012, covers up to 95% of tuition and associated costs for courses in highdemand fields – up to the value of £8,000 over four years, regardless of whether the participant proceeds to pursue a career at Amazon.

An Amazon spokesman said: “There are many opportunities for progression within Career Choice, including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and certificates, software development, English language classes, accountancy and HGV driving. This means eligible employees are given the opportunity to gain the skills and qualifications needed to follow their career aspirations, whatever they might be.”

Diana began her Amazon career at the company’s fulfilment centre in Dunstable on a temporary contract, eventually moving to the Sutton-in-Ashfield site when it opened in 2020. Both she and her husband work there, with Diana as an HR partner and Bobi in stow –receiving and stowing new products into the fulfilment centre.

She said: “We overheard people in town talking about seasonal jobs at Amazon – that

Zero emissions from a bus powered by hydrogen

Loughborough University is scaling up its low-cost battery-electrolyser innovation that produces green hydrogen for diverse markets from rural Africa to UK wind farms

Dr Sarah Pass

INEQUALITY STILL AN ISSUE FOR WORKERS

A national survey of more than 4,000 UK workers suggests that while employees are more engaged with management where they work – its first rise since the pandemic –inequalities continue to divide the workforce.

The annual Engage for Success survey, run in partnership with Nottingham Business School –part of Nottingham Trent University – directly questioned a diverse and representative sample of employees across all sectors, industries, organisational sizes and regions of the UK. Using resources and expertise from business analysts Stillae and the Involvement and Participation Association, it explored emerging issues influencing engagement –including organisational practices, hybrid working, health and wellbeing, bullying and harassment, and leadership.

TRAINING HAS REALLY BOOSTED MY CAREER

was the initial reason we started, but there are so many reasons why we stayed. We’ve been given opportunities here that we couldn’t have found elsewhere. Our jobs are stable, and we trust Amazon. It changed our lives.”

‘These qualifications really changed my career – I wouldn’t have been able to afford the courses without Amazon’

Initially Diana tried to progress as a team lead within the operations department, but found it didn’t suit her, so she decided to try her hand at something else.

She said: “When I started my first role at Amazon in operations, I felt it wasn’t really what I was looking for career progression-wise.

Although I’d graduated twice from university already, Career Choice gave me was another chance to try something new and see if I’d like it.

“It was completely different to the things I’d studied before. I did an accountancy degree back home in Romania and then a software engineering degree in the UK. Studying HR through Career Choice was an opportunity for

me to try something else, working with people, and using a different skillset.”

Diana took two courses through Career Choice, graduating from an HR assistant course in 2023, and undertaking a CIPD Level 5 diploma afterwards. She credits the programme with advancing her career and helping her secure a permanent role.

She said: “These qualifications really changed my career – I wouldn’t have been able to afford the courses without Amazon. Everyone asks ‘what’s the catch?’ when they hear about what Career Choice offers, but I realised that there is no catch from speaking to other people who’d done it! I decided to go for it, and here I am today.”

She said the favourite aspects of her job were that she gets to work hands-on with her colleagues, alongside the independence and flexibility it offers her family.

She said: “The best thing about my job is that we get to help a lot of people – there are more than 2,000 employees on site, and I would deal with at least a quarter of them during each shift, which is a lot of people depending on you.

“I really like that I can be self-sufficient –there’s freedom and trust there for me to do what I think is right.”

Despite the rise in engagement, it remained below pre-pandemic levels, with the findings revealing a stark divide between UK organisations which prioritise their people, and those which do not. Two-in-five employees work in organisations that actively embed peoplefocused issues into decision-making – with reports of more positive attitudes toward work, including a willingness to “go the extra mile”, support colleagues and drive performance.

The business school said workers with higher engagement are far less likely to see their job as simply a way to earn money – instead, experiencing a sense of purpose and fulfilment, which positively contributes to their overall wellbeing. In contrast, another two-in-five employees feel that people issues are overlooked in their organisation, where unmanageable job stress is five times higher. The result is higher absenteeism and employees more likely to be looking around for a new job.

The survey results also highlighted the crucial role that managers play in shaping employee engagement and workplace experience. When both senior leaders and line managers prioritise people issues, engagement rises significantly, creating more positive attitudes and healthier work environments.

The report’s author was Dr Sarah Pass, senior lecturer in human resources management at Nottingham Business School and Engage for Success Advisory Board member.

She said: “To lead effectively, managers need proper training and time to support their teams, and those who receive this preparation report higher engagement and greater confidence in their role. The rise in engagement is encouraging, but if we are to truly Keep Britain Working, we must focus not just on getting people into work, but on helping them work well.”

Diana Frunza works in human resources at the Amazon fulfilment centre in Sutton-in-Ashfield

INVESTING IN PEOPLE WILL PAY DIVIDENDS

James Butcher (pictured) is a Nottingham-based serial entrepreneur with technical, commercial and leadership experience including four successful start-up and scale-up businesses.

In my experience there is a lot of confusion about the “S” in ESG (environmental, social, and governance).

The focus is too often, in my opinion, about corporate philanthropy – which is valuable and kudos to those companies that are able to make such social investments.

However, for me there are two “socials” in ESG. Yes, one is external “community” indicators but more importantly, in my view, there is also the “employee” community.

As Mahatma Gandhi said: “If you want to change the world, start with yourself.”

In my experience, the “S” starts at home –employee health and safety, diversity, equity, working conditions and importantly training and development. This is a passion for me, because it’s about strong teams and investing in people. It is the reason I deliver webinars on the subject for East Midlands Chamber.

It’s also not only about compliance. ESG is too often linked to reporting and disclosure, but reporting is the means to an end – it is not the end.

In HR, compliance is essential, and law changes in 2024 have increased the onus on companies to have training and compliance in place – and increased costs of failing to do so. But, there is a strong business case for training –a well-trained workforce is a retained workforce. By contrast, research from employee experience platform Quantum Workplace showed 37% of employees left due to a lack of career growth. The “true cost” of replacing someone is six-to-nine month’s salary when you consider the costs of disruption, recruitment and on-boarding.

Furthermore, the investment in training goes directly to performance. In research, 67% of staff believed performance would significantly improve with online performance. this is echoed by further research that showed investment in training delivered, on average, 24% higher profit margins.

As Henry Ford said: “The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.”

YOUNGSTERS LOOK TO THE FUTURE AT MUSEUM

Hundreds of Derby and Nottingham students stepped out of the classroom to hone their engineering skills under the watchful eye of Rolls-Royce apprentices in the inspiring setting of what was once the world’s first modern factory.

The Museum of Making in Derby, once the site of the world’s first mass production factory, hosted secondary school children from across the city and Nottingham as part of a two-day ‘Making Futures’ event. Students were brought together with around 30 Rolls-Royce apprentices who had devised a series of clever hands-on tasks designed to teach engineering skills.

Making Futures is delivered annually through a partnership between Derby Museums and Rolls-Royce, with the manufacturing giant sponsoring the museums’ STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) learning programmes.

Students from City of Derby Academy, The Becket School, Allestree Woodlands, John Flamsteed Community School, Chellaston Academy, Lees Brook Academy, Jasmine Hall School and Landau Forte College all came to learn more about the types of skills and knowledge they would develop through a RollsRoyce apprenticeship – with some apprentices

AUTOMOTIVE ACADEMY WILL HELP STUDENTS GET IN GEAR

East Midlands students have started training for jobs in vehicle engineering after Derby College Group (DCG) officially opened its newly redeveloped Automotive Academy.

The new Automotive Employer Engagement Event at its Roundhouse campus will provide students with the latest skills needed to enter the ever-developing field of automotive engineering.

Gareth Sullivan-Pearce, team manager for motor vehicles at the college said: “The Automotive Academy at Derby College is more than just a new building; it represents a bold step forward for automotive education in our region.

“We’re committed to providing a modern, inclusive learning environment where students gain the skills and knowledge needed for a rapidly evolving industry.

“The feedback from our employer partners has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re excited to continue working together to shape the future of automotive skills training.”

The new academy offers full-time students,

adult learners and apprentice qualifications from Level 1 through to Level 3, covering light vehicle maintenance, service and repair, and emerging green automotive technologies.

‘We’ve worked with Derby College for years and it’s fantastic to see this new investment in the facilities’

Longstanding collaborators such as Halfords, Beechwood Mazda, Gtech Motorworks, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK provide students with hands-on work experience opportunities as well as valuable career insights, ensuring students leave college with the practical skills and industry awareness needed for success.

James Godfrey, owner of Nottingham Road Car Sales, said: “We’ve worked with Derby College for years and it’s fantastic to see this new investment in the facilities.

Rolls-Royce apprentices at the Museum of Making with John Banks of the museum

THE IMPORTANCE OF RESTORATIVE ACTION

Coming face to face with the arsonist who set her car ablaze while she was pregnant was a turning point in Karen Lamb’s life, inspiring her to dedicate herself to helping vulnerable children escape the cycle of crime.

Twenty years ago, Karen’s car was destroyed in an arson attack, leaving her without transport at a crucial time as she prepared for the arrival of her baby.

Through this process, Karen also learned about the offender's life, which gave her insight into why he had turned to crime. Although it was difficult to hear, it strengthened her belief in the alternative approach to addressing crime that focuses on repairing relationships rather than solely punishing offenders.

Karen kept in touch with the offender for around 18 months, during which time he sent her a card when her baby was born and they continued to exchange messages about life.

One of the young offenders responsible was placed on a reparation order, requiring him to meet with Karen and her husband in a restorative justice session. There, they shared the profound impact the crime had on their lives.

‘The school values not just the education of its students but also their well-being’

having themselves attended local schools including Littleover Community Academy and The Ripley Academy.

Students took part in hands-on tasks designed by apprentices to test their skills in various areas of engineering, including testing the flight properties of various materials and using UV light to check materials for defects invisible to the naked eye.

Teachers and students who attended the day said it had been a great opportunity to bring together secondary-aged young people with apprentices only a few years older, in a practical two-days of learning.

“Apprenticeships have made a huge difference to our business, bringing new skills into the workshop while giving young people a great start in the industry.”

Student Storm Rogers-Davies recently switched from an equine course to the Level 3 automotive qualification after discovering her passion for mechanics through working on cars with her father.

He said: “I’ve learnt so much already and the tutors have been so supportive. It’s such a handson course and I love the practical side. Moving to automotive was the best decision I’ve made.”

That meeting was a revelation for Karen. Now serving as the mental health lead at The Bemrose School, she has seen firsthand the power of restorative justice in transforming lives.

She said: “I had to take out a loan to buy a new car and it was a huge challenge to get to work and get everything ready with a baby on the way. But during the restorative meeting, I felt heard and validated. It was reassuring to see that the offender seemed remorseful, I could see it in his blushing cheeks.

“It gave me hope that he truly understood the consequences of his actions.”

This unexpected connection inspired Karen –who has also fostered 39 children over the last 18 years – to become a voluntary restorative mentor, working one-on-one with another young offender each week, engaging in activities such as bowling to build trust and guide him towards a better path.

Now, as an integral member of the pastoral team at The Bemrose School, Karen champions the school’s restorative approach to discipline and personal development, helping students make positive changes in their own lives.

Her role has evolved into that of a dedicated mental health lead, a position that is usually combined with other responsibilities in most schools, but one that she now focuses on exclusively.

She said: “The school values not just the education of its students but also their wellbeing, and that is reflected in its approach to justice. It's about supporting the whole pupil, not just focusing on statistics.”

Derby College Automotive Academy

Chellaston Academy students experiment with materials’ flight testing

Karen Lamb is the mental health lead at The Bemrose School

Are you taking cyber crime seriously?

By Kevin Walker

Cybercrime has become one of the most pressing challenges facing UK businesses. The latest Cyber Security Breaches Survey reveals that 43% of businesses experienced a cyber-attack in the past year, with phishing, malware and ransomware among the most common threats. The real figure could be even higher, as smaller breaches often go undetected or unreported.

The financial toll is staggering. A cyber breach costs the average business thousands, not just in direct losses but through disruption, lost revenue and reputational damage. For small businesses, which often lack the resources to recover quickly, the consequences can be existential. Larger companies aren’t immune either – high-profile breaches dominate headlines, eroding public trust and shareholder confidence.

Phishing remains the most prevalent threat, reported by more than four-in-five businesses. These deceptive emails and websites exploit human error, tricking employees into divulging sensitive information or installing malware. Meanwhile, ransomware attacks, where data is encrypted and held for ransom, have risen sharply. Criminals no longer just lock files; they increasingly threaten to leak sensitive information unless their demands are met.

WHY BUSINESSES ARE STILL VULNERABLE

Despite the clear risks, many businesses remain unprepared. The survey highlights that only 72% per cent of businesses use firewalls, and fewer still implement advanced tools such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) or managed detection and response. Often, misconceptions about cost or a belief that “it won’t happen to us” prevent companies from taking proactive measures.

Smaller businesses are most at risk of falling into this trap. Many assume they are too small to be targeted, but attackers frequently seek out “soft targets” with weaker defences. In reality, being small doesn’t mean being safe –it often makes you more appealing to opportunistic hackers.

BUILDING A STRONGER DEFENCE

Effective cyber security doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. It starts with simple, practical measures:

• Use strong, unique passwords: Stop using the same password everywhere. A password manager makes this effortless.

• Enable MFA: A simple extra step that blocks most cyberattacks before they start.

• Think before you click: Phishing emails are getting smarter. If something feels off, don’t click without verifying first.

• Update your software: Those little pop-ups aren’t just annoying; they patch security holes hackers love to exploit.

• Next-generation antivirus: Monitor all endpoints centrally to spot unusual file executions or lateral movement before they become a crisis.

• Back up your data: Whether it’s ransomware or accidental deletion, backups can save your business.

• Cyber Essentials certification: Follow governmentbacked guidelines on five key controls and gain external validation of your core defences.

The good news is that businesses that invest in these foundational practices report fewer and less severe breaches. Cyber security is not a one-time fix but an ongoing process – as threats evolve, so must the defences.

THE ROLE OF LEADERSHIP

Cyber security needs to be treated as a board-level priority. Too often, it is delegated entirely to IT teams, leaving decision-makers unaware of the risks until it’s too late. Integrating cyber security into broader risk management frameworks ensures it gets the attention, and funding, it deserves.

For business leaders, protecting your organisation isn’t just about avoiding losses. It’s about demonstrating to clients, partners and employees that their data and livelihoods are valued. A strong security posture can even become a competitive advantage, fostering trust and confidence in an increasingly digital economy.

Cyber threats aren’t going away, and the cost of inaction far outweighs the investment in preventative measures. By adopting a proactive approach, businesses can protect not only their bottom lines but also their reputations and the trust of those they serve.

For many organisations, the hardest part is knowing where to start. Building partnerships with trusted security experts, conducting risk assessments and establishing a clear cyber security roadmap can provide the clarity needed to move forward. Staying safe in a connected world is a shared responsibility – and one no business can afford to ignore.

‘Integrating

cyber security into broader risk management frameworks ensures it gets the attention, and funding, it deserves’

(pictured), founder of Black Swan Cyber Security Solutions

Why your supply chain can mean trouble in store

By Linzi Naisbitt, senior business development and account manager for Cyber Security at IntaForensics

In an increasingly interconnected world, your business is only as secure as the weakest link in its supply chain. Recent cyber-attacks affecting major retailers like M&S, Co-op, and Harrods have highlighted a growing threat.

These are not just IT issues – the impact can be seen on shop floors, in logistics centres, and across customer service channels. Empty shelves, delayed deliveries, and operational disruptions are just the tip of the iceberg.

According to the 2024 Cyber Security Breaches Survey by the UK government, over half of medium-sized businesses (56%) and large businesses (70%) reported breaches or attacks in the last 12 months – and supply chain vulnerabilities played a significant part in that.

The misconception that only large enterprises are targeted is dangerous. SMEs, often with less mature security practices, can be just as exposed, particularly if they are linked to larger organisations.

WHAT IS A SUPPLY CHAIN ATTACK?

A supply chain attack occurs when cyber criminals infiltrate your organisation by exploiting vulnerabilities in your third-party vendors, suppliers or service providers. These attacks often bypass the direct defences of a company by targeting a less secure partner with privileged access. From software updates laced with malware to compromised login credentials, the methods are varied –and increasingly sophisticated.

PRACTICAL STEPS TO REDUCE THE RISK

While no organisation can eliminate risk entirely, there are proactive steps businesses of all sizes can take to protect themselves and their partners:

1. Know who has access – and how much

Begin with a thorough audit of your external suppliers. Identify what systems, data and applications they can access. Apply the principle of “least privilege” – suppliers should only have the minimum level of access required for their work. Remove any dormant accounts and regularly review permission levels.

2. Watch every link – literally

Email remains one of the most common entry points for attackers. Train your staff to be cautious with links and attachments, even if they appear to come from trusted suppliers. Tools like VirusTotal and Browserling can help verify links before they’re clicked. Encourage the use of sandbox environments or reputable anti-malware scanners for opening attachments.

3. Refresh supplier agreements and policies

A once-and-done approach doesn’t cut it. Review your supplier contracts and cyber security policies at least annually. Agreements should clearly define each party’s security responsibilities and include breach notification procedures. Ensure you have up-to-date contact information for suppliers, ideally with an alternative communication method in case of a cyber incident.

4. Bolster your overall cyber defences

Ensure your business has a strong cyber security posture. This includes having an established incident response plan and ideally a retainer in place with a trusted cyber security partner. Regular policy reviews and staff training can make a significant difference when the unexpected occurs.

5. Conduct regular cyber security audits

An annual audit can provide a clear picture of where your vulnerabilities lie and offer actionable steps for improvement. These assessments are not just about ticking boxes – they’re about building resilience across your entire organisation.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Supply chain attacks are not a niche concern. They’re a fastgrowing threat that can disrupt operations, erode customer trust and lead to significant financial loss. By taking a proactive approach – tightening access controls, staying vigilant about email threats, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and investing in robust security practices –businesses can significantly reduce their exposure.

‘While no organisation can eliminate risk entirely, there are proactive steps businesses of all sizes can take to protect themselves and their partners’

Harrods is one of many major retailers to have been hit by a cyber attack

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

THE CUTTING-EDGE SECTOR THAT IMPACTS THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS

Lessons must be learned

Cass Vranjkovic, lead technology specialist at IT support group NetMonkeys, considers recent cyber attacks on big high street names

RMay on Marks & Spencer and The Cooperative Group, with Harrods also facing defensive action, have shaken the sector. These sophisticated assaults exposed deep vulnerabilities, offering crucial lessons for all businesses.

Marks & Spencer’s crisis, linked to the Scattered Spider syndicate, reportedly began with social engineering of IT help desk staff in February, leading to Active Directory credential theft.

By late April, DragonForce ransomware encrypted core systems. The devastating impact included suspended online sales, and disruption to in-store payments, gift cards and click-andcollect. Supply chains faltered, causing stock shortages, with financial losses in the hundreds of millions.

The Co-operative Group suffered a similar attack, claimed by DragonForce, again using social engineering. While financial data wasn't compromised, attackers exfiltrated vast amounts of member PII (names, contacts, membership numbers), potentially affecting millions and raising significant GDPR concerns. Co-op’s back office, call centres and crucial EDI (electronic

affecting stock and deliveries.

Harrods, however, detected an attempted breach and its swift internal security response apparently thwarted a major incident, proving robust defences are critical.

SMEs might dismiss these as “big company problems”, but the core tactics, exploiting human trust and targeting key administrative systems, are universal. Your people are often the first target, as these breaches began by tricking employees, not just exploiting complex code. Thus, fostering an organisation-wide security awareness, ensuring everyone can spot suspicious IT support requests (such as password resets), is vital, alongside stringent, multi-layered verification for all sensitive IT actions.

Equally vital is protecting core IT infrastructure like active directory. Its compromise hands attackers the keys to your digital kingdom. Therefore, robust identity management, strong passwords and multi factor authentication (MFA) are fundamental. Since no defence is impenetrable, embedding cyber preparedness within a broader business continuity framework or resilience strategy is crucial.

New kid on the Bloc in Kansas

A Derby-headquartered 3D content, data visualisation and alternative reality solutions company has opened a new office in Kansas, USA.

Digital marketing experts expand regional offering

MNA Digital has expanded into Derby and Nottingham, bringing its bespoke digital marketing solutions to businesses throughout the East Midlands.

The business – which is part of publishing giant National World –provides services such as website design, SEO strategies that drive traffic and social media campaigns.

The Derby and Nottingham team is being led by professionals including commercial director Gary Blurton, media sales director Charlotte Shemilt and digital sales consultant Andy Marshall.

Andy said: “We are delighted to expand our operations into the East Midlands and work with the region’s thriving business communities.

“MNA Digital has earned its excellent reputation thanks to its track record of helping businesses strengthen their online presence. Our goal is to help local businesses surpass their digital marketing goals with strategies that are both innovative and tailored.”

Bloc Digital Inc – which opened a North American head office in Mentor, Ohio, just over a year ago –has leased around 3,400 sq ft in the Epic Center, located in downtown Wichita.

Co-founder Chris Hotham said: “The energy and overwhelming support from the local community have only reinforced why Kansas was the right choice for Bloc Digital.

“Our new Wichita office will be instrumental in driving our growth and strengthening collaboration across the US. We’re excited to hit the ground running and make our mark at the Epic Center.”

Bloc Digital Business Manager Mckenna Walker said: “The aerospace and aviation industries are truly booming in Wichita, and we are so excited to work closely with many companies in those industries and various others.”

The company plans to expand its team there with five-to-10 new positions within the first 12-to-18 months, spanning design, 3D modelling, animation, immersive, software and data.

The MNA Digital team

Bloc Digital has opened an office in Wichita

Cass Vranjkovic, lead technology Specialist at NetMonkeys

The cultural implications of using AI must not be overlooked

Dr

Vanessa Pozzali and Dr Tarek Jomaa of Synthosys write about the significance of culture in (and around) technology

There is immense excitement surrounding the tech industry today. Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant promise but a present force, embedded into the tools we use, the decisions we make, and the pace at which we work. Yet, alongside this surge in innovation, there remains an element often overlooked – culture.

The cultural implications of tech adoption are profound. As AI moves into everyday practice, it evokes both admiration and unease. This polarity is not new. Just as fire revolutionised early human life –bringing warmth, connection, and safety, while simultaneously provoking fear and caution – AI stands at a similar threshold. It offers transformational potential, but also triggers suspicion, especially when introduced in contexts

unprepared for its disruptive nature.

The early days of companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Google were marked by innovation rooted in human creativity. These organisations became symbols of collaborative excellence, where internal culture was built on support, vision, and shared purpose. Employees felt valued. Competition existed externally; internally, people helped each other thrive.

But as the industry matured, metrics began to replace meaning. Efficiency overtook empathy. Human dynamics started to mirror machine logic: structured, streamlined, and unforgiving. The pandemic amplified this transformation, exposing deep cultural rifts in tech workplaces.

The pressure to deliver results, manage uncertainty, and navigate rapid technological change often

Synthosys founders

Dr Tarek Jomaa and Dr Vanessa Pozzali

leaves leaders isolated and overwhelmed. While they may appear confident outwardly, many are privately grappling with doubt, decision fatigue, and a diminished sense of connection to their teams. Leadership today requires navigating uncharted territory –and leaders, too, need spaces of support and reflection to adapt with integrity.

‘Leaders may start second-guessing intuition, trusting algorithms over experience’

This is not a call to reject AI or demonise the tech industry. Technology is not the enemy. But it is not neutral either. The way we introduce and integrate it matters.

At Synthosys, we apply our TIC model – team, individuals, culture –to examine how AI impacts not just systems, but people. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and group analysis, we help organisations become more aware of the psychological and relational shifts that accompany technological adoption.

Rather than enabling deep focus, AI-driven workflows may fragment attention, especially if not integrated with intention. To preserve meaningful concentration, it is essential to set clear boundaries and implement structured processes that protect uninterrupted focus sessions, free

from constant alerts or demands for immediate response.

Creativity generative AI can assist in ideation, but over-reliance may lead to creative stagnation.

Professionals may begin to defer to machine suggestions, losing confidence in their own capacity for originality. Brainstorming with AI – rather than substituting our creativity with AI-generated outputs – is key.

Decision-making AI can enhance decision-making by offering rapid analysis. However, it also introduces risk: it can subtly influence human judgment; it may amplify bias; and it can reduce reflective thinking.

Leaders may start secondguessing intuition, trusting algorithms over experience.

Preserving our independence from AI is essential – our decisionmaking processes must remain grounded in human insight, experience, and reflective thinking, rather than defaulting to machinegenerated outputs.

Introducing AI is not only operational – it is emotional.

Teams must be supported through the transition, acknowledging the loss of what came before. Emotions like grief, confusion, or anxiety are common but often unspoken.

A healthy culture enables technology to enhance rather than erode human potential. It fosters innovation without sacrificing inclusion or psychological safety.

We stand at a pivotal moment. The question is not whether AI will change our work, but how we will shape that change.

BUSINESS SUPPORT

THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES FROM OUR KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS

IN BRIEF

FAMILY LAWYER STEPS INTO ASSOCIATE ROLE

Timms Solicitors family lawyer Melissa Knight has been promoted to associate, giving her greater responsibility in business management, financial oversight and the training and development of key staff.

Management at the firm, which has offices in Derby, Burton-on-Trent, Ashby, and Swadlincote, said her “strong leadership, unwavering dedication and an innovative approach to legal advocacy” had made her a dedicated advocate for the most vulnerable members of society.

Melissa specialises in care proceedings, representing children removed from their parents, as well as parents and grandparents navigating complex legal challenges, with her work requiring an “extraordinary level of resourcefulness and adaptability”. She has also gained the Children Law Accreditation – a recognised quality benchmark which enables solicitors to represent children.

FIRM ENJOYS MAJOR COMMERCIAL GROWTH

Shakespeare Martineau has reported growth within its newly-rebranded commercial services team, which now brings together the firm’s commercial, intellectual property and energy practices.

Revenues within the team rose from £4.5m in 2023 to £5m in 2024, and are expected to pass £5.37m by the end of the 2025 financial year – marking a rise of almost 20% in two years.

As part of the recent reorganisation the team has now covers five specialist areas: with intellectual property led by Nicholas Briggs; technology and IT led by Stewart Argo and Ed Wright; commercial contracts and advice led by Carys Thompson; data protection and privacy headed by Trevor Fenton; and energy led by Andrew Whitehead.

The energy team has further expanded its focus into subsectors including renewables, heat, hydrogen, sustainable transport, innovation and utilities.

Team advises on series of key mergers

Rhas advised Haines Watts Tamworth on its merger with the TC Group – just a week after the same team finalised the merger of Haines Watts’ Derby, Nottingham and Leicester audit offices.

This latest deal was TC Group’s third major acquisition in March and significantly expands its presence in the Midlands.

All three partners along with the wider Haines Watts Tamworth team will remain with the newly rebranded firm.

The transaction was led by Rothera Bray corporate partner David Kaplan, supported by Liz Mills, Liam Wicks, Catherine Angrave and Rachel Mills.

David Kaplan said: “This was our second transaction with TC Group in a period of a week, which came at a very busy period before the tax changes in the new financial year.

“The target completion date was set at the outset of the transaction and all parties worked tirelessly to ensure that this deadline was met.”

Rothera Bray employs more than 250 people and seven offices in the East Midlands.

Milestone for housebuilder link-up

Chesterfield law firm Banner Jones has reached a milestone in its partnership with Stancliffe Homes, having advised on the sale of the housebuilder’s 200th property and supported the acquisition of its eighth residential development site.

Management said the news reflected the strength of the East Midlands housing market, where demand and investment in land continue to drive growth in both new-build completions and housing starts.

Stancliffe Homes, a privately owned house builder headquartered in Derbyshire, has worked with Banner Jones since 2018, drawing on the firm’s legal expertise across land acquisition, planning agreements, funding, and plot sales.

The partnership has supported the delivery of housing in locations including Worksop, Wingerworth, Bolsover, Tansley and Mansfield.

The firm also has several live planning applications, including for new developments in Darley Dale, Wingerworth, Calow, Bolsover and Rutland, with plans to deliver a further 300 homes by the end of 2028.

Banner Jones director and head of business legal services Andrew Fielder said: “Beyond delivering much-needed homes, these developments create jobs, drive supply chain opportunities, and support the growth of communities across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.”

Stancliffe Homes works with Banner Jones

David Kaplan of Rothera Bray

Loan opportunity for small businesses

The British Business Bank has announced First Enterprise –Enterprise Loans, as an accredited delivery partner for Community ENABLE Funding in the Midlands, as the programme launches across the UK.

First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans is being allocated up to £13m under the programme to provide loans above £25,000, unlocking capital for underserved smaller businesses across the Midlands.

Specifically, it will help businesses located in disadvantaged areas, who have less awareness of the finance options available to them or those declined by traditional finance routes, such as high street banks.

The programme will also target underrepresented groups, such as female and ethnic-minority led businesses, increasing the diversity of businesses in those areas and improving the small business ecosystem.

On top of that, the programme is designed to increase the availability of funding to social impact sector lenders, and the smaller businesses

Economy boosted by private capital

A new report has found that businesses backed by private capital generate £19bn for the Midlands economy each year.

Private Capital in the Midlands, launched by the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), showcases the industry’s importance to growth in the nations and regions of the UK.

In 2024 alone, private capital invested £1.18bn into businesses in the Midlands, with a hands-on approach that helps drive value creation in companies through strategic and operational improvements.

As of 2025, private capital supported an estimated 905 businesses in the region, 15% up on 2023. The report says venture capital firms are playing a significantly larger role in the Midlands economy compared to a couple of years ago, backing 455 businesses, around 20% more than in 2023.

Private equity currently backs 250 businesses in the region consistent with 2023.

they serve in local communities –primarily community development financial institutions (CDFIs), supporting up to £150m of lending over the next two years.

CDFIs are small, regional, social impact sector lenders that provide debt finance and support to underserved smaller businesses that can find it difficult to access finance from mainstream lenders. One of the key objectives of the programme is to help develop the whole sector, so many more such businesses can access the finance they need.

Reinald de Monchy, co-chief banking officer, Products, British Business Bank said: “After the successful launch of the Community ENABLE Funding programme in November 2024, we are delighted that First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans will be one of its first accredited lenders.

“They have demonstrated a clear passion for supporting smaller businesses in the Midlands and we are excited to see the impact they will deliver for the business community they support.”

Highest level of gross new lending for business bank

The Leicester-based Cambridge & Counties business bank registered its highest level of gross new lending in 2024 at £376m – up 15% year-on-year.

New figures show that property finance drawdowns were more than £285m, the third consecutive year of growth in the bank’s core real estate finance division.

‘We play an important role in supporting a broad range of businesses and entrepreneurs, which are often overlooked by larger lenders’

Asset finance drawdowns were £89m, 39% up on 2023, and a record for the bank.

Meanwhile, finance for the purchase of classic, vintage and sports cars using hire purchase and finance lease products increased 41% to £72m.

Donald Kerr

Overall, total customer loan balances rose 11% last year to £1.23bn while customer deposits rose to £1.27bn, up 10%.

Profit before tax was £35.8m against the backdrop of a falling interest rate environment.

Chief executive Donald Kerr said:

“Over the past two years we have invested in our relationship management teams and new technology – 2024 saw the benefits of this investment in the form of increased new business volumes.

“We also continued to develop our product rage with more fixed rate lending and new products such as development finance.

“The UK Government wants to stimulate growth – our SMEs and the UK property market are fundamental to this, and both are fully aligned with Cambridge and County Banks own strategy and products.

“We play an important role in supporting a broad range of businesses and entrepreneurs, which are often overlooked by larger lenders, and, as such, we have a key role to play in supporting the UK at a critical time for the economy.”

Last year the bank opened offices in Manchester and Reading and staff numbers increased 8% to finish the year at 243.

Reinald de Monchy, co-chief banking officer for products at the British Business Bank

Fully-funded bootcamps teach workplace skills

Training and apprenticeship provider EMA Training is running a series of skills bootcamps across Leicestershire, aimed at selfemployed people and people working for small businesses.

The fully-funded bootcamps, which start this month (June), will cover digital marketing; power BI (business and data analytics); and green skills for the workplace.

The first 16-week session will cover digital marketing with future courses starting later in the year. They are open to businesses with Leicestershire postcodes.

Tracey Mosley, managing director of EMA Training, said: "Supporting local business growth through practical training is at the heart of what we do, and we’re excited to welcome our first learners in June."

The business will be expanding its bootcamp offering to Derby, Nottingham and across the East Midlands in the coming months.

EMA Training is an independent training and apprenticeship provider with hubs across the East Midlands.

For more information email: info@ematraining.co.uk

Students scoop awards for academic excellence

Four exceptional Access to Higher Education (HE) students were recognised for their dedication and achievements at the education provider’s Keith Fletcher Memorial Prize awards, which were held at the House of Commons.

The awards celebrate the perseverance, commitment, and academic excellence of Access to HE students across England and Wales, and are named in memory of Keith Fletcher, a passionate advocate for adult learning.

Outstanding academic achievement winner Elizabeth Histed is now reading English literature at Harris Manchester College, Oxford.

She said: “This award will allow me to purchase textbooks and books for my studies as I love being able to annotate these whilst reading to consolidate my thoughts and knowledge.”

Outstanding commitment to study winner Sheree O’Neil said: “Winning the Keith Fletcher Access to HE award is an incredible honour, and it means so much to have my hard work recognised.

“It’s given me a huge confidence boost as I continue my journey to becoming a nurse, inspiring me to keep pushing forward and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Paolo Cruz and Melika Ronnie were highly commended.

College is driving training for Halfords

Nottingham College has started delivering bespoke apprenticeship training for Halfords.

The first apprentices started this year on the light vehicle technician level 3 programme, studying at the college’s Emtec campus in Ruddington.

As part of the agreement, Halfords have taken a unit at Nottingham College, which has been branded in its signature orange, with the option to expand into further space as the programme grows.

The college recently achieved an Ofsted outstanding grade for its residential apprenticeships provision at Ruddington, which attracts students from across the UK, with overnight and often weekly stays.

It also follows an exceptional 2024 for the college, with record-breaking enrolment figures.

Lindsey Smith, assistant principal at the Ruddington campus, said: “We are really pleased to have won part of the Halfords apprenticeship training provision.

“Emtec, part of Nottingham College, is a globally renowned provider of exceptional education and training, so it’s fitting that a national household name has trusted us to deliver their apprenticeship programme.”

Daniel McCann, head of skills development at Halfords, said: “Investing in the next generation of professionals is a key priority for us, and Nottingham College’s expertise in apprenticeship training makes them the ideal partner for this initiative.”

Access to Higher Education (HE) students received Keith Fletcher Memorial Prize awards at the House of Commons. From left: Elizabeth Histed, Paolo Cruz, Melika Ronnie and Sheree O’Neil with their tutors at the back

Emtec at the college’s Ruddington campus

IN BRIEF

CONSULTANT DUO TO MARKET BUSINESS PARK

FHP Property Consultants and Salloway Property Consultants have been appointed to market the leasehold and freehold of Robert Bakewell Business Park.

The new industrial/warehouse development situated on the A50, on the edge of Uttoxeter, is made up of two units of around 34,000 sq ft and 109,000 sq ft which were speculatively built by Derbyshire-based developers PMW Property.

In a joint comment Darran Severn of FHP and Phil Randle of Salloway said: “We will be looking to raise the awareness of the units throughout the region, particularly with nearby occupiers in Stoke-on-Trent, Derby and Burton-upon-Trent.

“The units themselves benefit from B2 and B8 planning and would equally suit a logistics or manufacturing business.”

SHOPPING CENTRE SET TO TAKE FLIGHT

Eagles Meadow Shopping Centre, Wrexham

FHP Property Consultants has been appointed joint agents to a shopping centre which will be home to the club shop of newly-promoted Championship side Wrexham.

The Eagles Meadow Shopping Centre, Wrexham, already includes a line-up of national retailers including Next, JD Sports, Foot Asylum, Boots and River Island complemented by a leisure line-up which includes an Odeon cinema, tenpin bowling, a recently opened trampoline park Airhop and a Nando’s.

Wrexham AFC – which has had its third promotion in a row under the ownership of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney – has signed a lease on a 17,000 sq ft unit to deliver a new club shop and community hub.

Oliver Marshall, part of FHP’s retail and leisure agency team, said: “The letting to Wrexham AFC is a huge statement for the scheme and the city. It’s the perfect time for ambitious retailers and leisure operators to secure a presence in what is fast becoming a re-energised and exciting destination.”

Alpha leads the way with sustainable headquarters

Acivil engineering business is getting a new, sustainable headquarters in Hilton, South Derbyshire.

Matthew Montague Architects has designed the new office for Alpha Construction, with construction set to start later this year. The new building will include office space, open-plan collaboration areas and on-site training facilities, designed to support Alpha’s growing team and client base.

Management said it will meet modern energy efficiency standards and promote wellbeing through natural light and its green design, with solar panels, EV charging, rainwater harvesting and landscaping for net gain biodiversity.

Alpha managing director Anthony Bamford said: “This development is more than just a new office, it is a bold statement about who we are and where we’re heading.

“It reflects our growth, ambition, and long-term investment in our people and the communities we work with.

“Matthew Montague Architects have captured our vision beautifully, and we’re excited to bring it to life.”

The move follows Alpha Construction’s selection for several civil engineering frameworks and continued growth delivering projects across the UK.

The company’s current head office at Chatsworth Court will be retained as a commercial asset.

Car dealership has new owners

Road, Bobbers Mill, Nottingham, has changed hands in an off-market transaction.

The Hyundai and Citroën dealership operated by Vertu Motors, has been owned by private investors for several years.

Salloway Property Consultants director Stephen Salloway, who helped handle the sale, said: “Our

review their portfolio.

“While there was no immediate plan to sell, the timing of this approach aligned with other opportunities, and they were willing to consider a serious offer.”

The Hyundai and Citroën dealerships are unaffected by the transaction.

L-R: Robin Denton and Leah Stafford of Alpha Construction, Daniel Evans of Matthew Montague Architects and Alpha Construction MD Anthony Bamford

The Hyundai and Citroën dealership in Nuthall Road, Nottingham

A super

Supra

Journalist Nick Jones tests Toyota’s somewhat forgotten hero – the powerful yet graceful Supra

Any petrolhead will remember the name Supra from the past few decades, and it has just been re-born –but with a difference.

Toyota, in their wisdom, realised It would cost a fortune to develop a whole new car with all the underpinnings that would go with it, so they’ve enlisted the help of BMW to forego the cost and use the German brands’ engine, chassis, transmission and most of the interior – the donor car being the Z4.

But don’t be fooled into thinking this is a BMW with a Toyota badge. Oh no.

On the outside, we have a double-bubble roof, headlights that resemble those of its forebear and a distinctive rear spoiler with

‘Supra’ embellished on it. It does look a visually-stunning car.

‘This could become a major-player for those looking to buy something a tad different’

It’s when you step inside, that a host of BMW traits become apparent – things like the iDrive system and the touchscreen borrowed from the i8. It befits a car costing as much as this does, and it feels sportier with hip-hugging seats and no seats fitted in the rear – they’re useless anyway –which frees up boot capacity.

Two engine choices can be had,

the entry-level version being a 2.0litre turbo producing 255 horsepower, or a 3.0-litre twinturbo version boasting 348 horses. Whichever you choose there’s a throaty roar from under the bonnet

and I found the response accelerating is instant and quite addictive. It has a 50/50 weight distribution that sees it a nimble handler of all conditions, and you can now specify a manual six-

speed gearbox should you want to work your way behind the wheel.

Because of the attention to detail this could become a majorplayer for those looking to buy something a tad different.

THE LAST WORD

Chamber president Dawn Whitemore on why people are the greatest asset a business can have, and how employers can get the most from their staff

In any business the most important assets are the people, and investment into ensuring your workforce is nurtured, encouraged and enabled will provide the “human capital” needed to thrive and grow. Common sense, I hear you say! Without a doubt, employers talk the talk, but very often find it difficult to translate this fundamental ethos into real sustainable and consistent action.

Achieving this is difficult – there are so many levels and dimensions to master when working to create the right culture, and once created then ensuring it continues to develop in the right way. However, there are some basic steps that, for me, are critical in enabling the people in any organisation to thrive and grow, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued.

• Leadership starts from the top, and operating with integrity, honesty and transparency should be set as a norm – setting a standard for everyone within the organisation to lead, manage and live by.

• Recognising the value of each and every member of the team, ensuring they are told how important they are, thanked personally and that they know their value to the business.

‘Empower your people, encourage informed risk, and support do not blame’

• To smile and always say hello, ask how their day is going; the power of a smile and simple considerate conversation cannot be underestimated. Listening and being genuinely interested in how each of your staff’s day is going goes a long way. You might not always like what you hear but if your staff are willing to talk to you and raise concerns, you are half way to creating a culture where all staff can thrive.

• Listening is a very underestimated skill, taking on other’s views and ideas and evaluating them properly, recognising appropriately

It’s important to create a workplace environment where everyone feels valued

where ideas have come from and who has done the work. This is essential for getting the best out of individuals and creating a productive and cohesive team.

• Remember those who are doing the actual task or work will give more insight into how things can be done and work that many managers simply could not have. So why would you not harness that experience, understanding and insight, to assess how to improve things or to do things smarter. Empower your people, encourage informed risk and support; do not blame.

• Continuous development comes in all forms –ensure your appraisal process is about the individual, that you build in career development, personal development and understand their motivations. If you get this right, staff will contribute so much more, because development is mutually beneficial and will build your business.

• Challenging – but in a constructive manner –any behaviour that does not align and support the standards and expectation of your organisation in a consistent and timely manner is a key part of the success.

Skill development should be a continual journey for every staff member, securing and developing staff to have the right attitude – to be problem solvers, resilient and adaptable – enables lifetime learning and development to be embraced. Vocational, technical skill development can and should be done on the job with off-the-job elements to enhance, practice, hone and stretch the technical skills. Every day there is an opportunity to learn something new, improve or enhance a current skill, and with the continuous development of AI, sensible employers will use the efficiency savings to invest in their people, giving their business a competitive edge that is not so easy to copy.