unLTD SEPTEMBER 25 Connecting business across Sheffield City Region #90

PLUS… NEWS, INTERVIEWS, EXPERT ADVICE AND MORE!

FAST TRACK TO SUCCESS

CHARLOTTE HIGGINS ON WHAT IT TAKES TO LEAD IN LAW AND SPORT

SKY’S THE LIMIT

DSA AIRPORT RECEIVES FINAL CLEARANCE FOR TAKE-OFF!

THE SWEET STUFF

HOW ONE LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR BROUGHT A TASTE OF COLOMBIA TO SOUTH YORKSHIRE

GET CONNECTED

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UPCOMING UNLTD BUSINESS EXPO

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Contents

ON THE COVER...

26: IN THE FAST LANE

From courtroom to velodrome – how Charlotte Higgins smashed barriers and national records on her way to becoming corporate partner at Taylor & Emmet and a world champion cyclist.

8:

CLEARED

FOR TAKE-OFF

With funding secured and unanimous backing, Doncaster Sheffield Airport is set to soar again – promising 5,000 jobs, billions in economic boost and a new era of sustainable regional growth. We highlight the key takeaways from this month’s big announcement.

18: LIGHTBULB MOMENT

We hear how a spark of inspiration turned Natalia Welch’s homesickness into a business plan – now she champions Colombian flavours with two growing food brands from her base in Sheffield.

40: A GREEN MACHINE

Four decades on, Beanies Wholefoods proves ethical retail can thrive. unLTD pays a visit to see how the co-op grocer is growing sustainably, staying local and showing how good food –and good business – can go hand in hand.

66: GET CONNECTED

The unLTD Business Expo is back this October – bigger, bolder and packed with opportunities to grow your network, showcase your brand and meet South Yorkshire’s brightest business minds. Free to attend, but stands are limited! Find out all you need to know here.

So, there it goes – summer 2025 has officially departed, and we’re now heading headlong into the cosy depths of autumn.

If, like me, you’re actually a fan of the fall season – nice colours, fewer sweaty office days – you might already be embracing the seasonal shift. That said, it never hurts to reflect on a few summer highlights. A small toast to the past couple of months, if you will.

In Sheffield city centre, we saw the Heart of the City project thriving, with new retail openings, public spaces coming to life and businesses moving into exciting hubs such as Leah’s Yard, Elshaw House and – at the other end of town – the expansive Pennine 5 complex.

At unLTD HQ, we built on the momentum of our business breakfasts and monthly socials, hosting events across a range of venues before launching our first 'Working Lunch' at the fantastic new Victoria space in Neepsend.

We also launched the unLTD Business Club membership scheme (see page 7 for how to get involved), introduced some fresh regular features in the magazine and welcomed everyone from resident wine experts to viral inventors onto our podcast.

Suffice to say the next few months have a lot to live up to – but they’re already shaping up well in terms of business news across the region. Top of the list is, of course, the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport – a hugely exciting development for South Yorkshire residents and the local economy. We’ve pulled together some key takeaways from the decision in this mag.

Elsewhere, we speak to Charlotte Higgins – a highflying partner at Taylor & Emmet who also breaks world records on the cycling track in her spare time – and share the inspirational story of Natalia Welch, who journeyed from Colombia to the Steel City to found not one, but two thriving food businesses rooted in her cultural heritage.

We’re also celebrating some brilliant local success stories, including 40 years of Beanies and the awardwinning small business Martha & Hepsie.

Throw in plenty of updates, insights, advice, not to mention all the details on our upcoming expo at Magna, and it’s another packed issue.

Get cosy, turn the page – and I’ll catch you in October.

Joseph Food, Editor.

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Joe Food

Joe@unltdbusiness.com

ONLINE EDITOR

Ash Birch

Ash@unltdbusiness.com

COLUMN EDITOR

Sian Emberson

VIDEO CONTENT CREATOR

Lizzy Capps lizzy@unltdbusiness.com

DESIGN

Marc Barker

ADVERTISING

Phil Turner

phil@unltdbusiness.com 07979 498 034

Nick Hallam

nick@exposedmagazine.co.uk 07843 483536

FINANCE

Lis Ellis accounts@ exposedmagazine.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Dan Bumby

Steve Brown

Wendy Ward

Jill White

Ruby Deakin

Rosie Brennan

unLTD is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd Unit 1B Rialto, 2 Kelham Island Sq., Kelham Riverside, Sheffield S3 8SD

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Blind Mice Media Ltd and while every effort is made to ensure information throughout unLTD is correct, changes prior to distribution may take place which can affect the accuracy of copy, therefore Blind Mice Media Ltd cannot take responsibility for contributors’ views or specific listings.

JOIN THE CLUB

The unLTD Business Club has launched – with a whole raft of new offers from our partners now included!

At unLTD Business Magazine, our mission has always been clear – to connect, support and celebrate the South Yorkshire business community. Now, we’ve taken that commitment even further with the launch of the unLTD Business Club – an exciting new membership initiative designed to give local businesses of all sizes more opportunities to grow, collaborate and thrive.

And this month we have unveiled four new benefits for all our members:

⚫ 20% off your bill at all True North venues (Monday to Friday) with a True North Business Card

⚫ 1 hour free photoshoot with Marc Barker Photography

⚫ 1 branded polo shirt from We Do Workwear (any size/colour)

⚫ 25% discount on the day delegate package and room hire from PJ Taste

… with much more to come!

So whether you’re a growing SME looking for meaningful networking opportunities, an entrepreneur wanting to stay ahead of the curve, or a larger organisation seeking strategic

brand exposure, unLTD Business Club offers a range of benefits tailored to meet your goals.

We’re open for signups now – with immediate access to a host of benefits depending on your subscription tier.

Why Join?

It's about more than just perks – it’s about being part of a community. Members will benefit from the power of local connections, increased visibility through South Yorkshire’s leading business publication and insider access to some of the region’s most anticipated networking events.

Whether you’re looking to raise your profile, grow your network, or simply stay up to speed with the region’s dynamic business landscape, this is a platform to support your ambitions.

Get Started Today

Visit unltdbusiness.com/ businessclub to sign up or email phil@unltdbusiness. com for more information on Business Partner opportunities.

Let’s grow together – join the unLTD Business Club today.

THREE WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

BUSINESS CLUB MEMBER

£10/month or £99/year (plus VAT)

Designed for professionals who want to network and engage more actively:

⚫ Priority access to all unLTD Business Breakfasts, Socials and other events – free of charge

⚫ Monthly e-newsletter

⚫ A guaranteed print copy of unLTD Business magazine

⚫ 10% discount on exhibition stands at the unLTD Business Expo

⚫ 20% off your bill at all True North venues (Monday to Friday) with a True North Business Card

⚫ 20% off your bill at all True North venues (Monday to Friday) with a True North Business Card

⚫ 1 hour free photoshoot with Marc Marker photography

⚫ 1 branded polo from We Do Workwear (any size/ colour)

⚫ 25% discount on the day delegate package and room hire from PJ Taste

BUSINESS PARTNER

Tailored packages available

Benefit from all the benefits of a Business Club Member as well as promoting your brand through our digital platforms and print magazines… our premium tier for businesses looking for strategic exposure and deeper engagement:

⚫ Monthly print advertising and editorial features in unLTD Business magazine and on unLTDbusiness. com

⚫ Social media promotion via LinkedIn

⚫ Opportunity to co-host networking events with the unLTD team

⚫ PLUS… All Business Club member benefits

BUSINESS SUBSCRIBER

£2.50/month (plus VAT)

⚫ Ideal for readers who want to stay informed, this entry-level tier ensures you receive:

⚫ A guaranteed copy of unLTD Business magazine each month

⚫ Monthly e-newsletter featuring news, insights and upcoming events

CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF!

WORDS: SIAN EMBERSON

Earlier this month, South Yorkshire leaders unanimously backed the return of Doncaster Sheffield Airport – a £160m investment forecast to deliver thousands of jobs and billions to the regional economy.

At 2.30pm on 9 September, Oliver Coppard sat down with the rest of the board of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to vote on the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA). The board, comprising Barnsley Council leader Sir Steve Houghton, Doncaster Council leader Ros Jones, Rotherham Council leader Chris Read and Sheffield Council leader Tom Hunt, had been debating the issue since the airport’s closure in 2022. Now, with enough economic backing, the airport is set to reopen by 2028.

Coppard explained his reasoning for voting in favour of the motion, balancing the protection of taxpayers’ money with the creation of job opportunities in the region. He described the airport as a perfect way to achieve both, saying: “This is the single biggest opportunity for well-made jobs.”

After attending the meeting, here are five key takeaways:

1. The vote was unanimous. Every member was impassioned about the cause and confident in the airport’s future.

2. The economic potential is vast. SYMCA has earmarked £160m for the project, with forecasts suggesting the airport could boost the regional economy by up to £5bn and create 5,000 jobs.

3. Sustainability is the number one priority. The authority is working with experts to research how best to decarbonise

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

operations and adopt sustainable practices.

4. Public transport must improve. Plans are under way to build better transport links around the airport as early as possible – reducing carbon emissions and improving accessibility.

5. International expertise will be enlisted. Munich International Airport will provide management and operational support to FlyDoncaster, the new body overseeing the airport.

Commenting on the decision, Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber said:

"The decision to re-open Doncaster airport today is a milestone moment for South Yorkshire and we welcome the decision reached today.

"Today marks the end of

an extensive consultation period, which clearly laid out the strong business case for re-opening. I hope that with funding now secured and consultations completed, this marks the beginning of an exciting new phase which will ultimately see flights return to the skies in South Yorkshire.

"My hope is that the re-opening of Doncaster airport will act as a catalyst towards boosting growth across the region, helping to connect the truly unique and innovative work being delivered throughout South Yorkshire, as well as helping our business community to explore new opportunities within international markets. At the same time, the decision is likely to create many new jobs within the regional economy as well as helping to drive inward investment into South Yorkshire."

DSA Airport at a glance

• £160million earmarked by SYMCA for reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) by 2028.

• Forecasted to generate up to £5billion in economic benefit and create approximately 5,000 jobs.

• In 2019, DSA handled approximately 1.408million passengers and 23,043 aircraft movements before the Covid slump.

• Local leaders have secured a 125-year lease on the site.

•Munich Airport International will assist FlyDoncaster with management and operational expertise.

BALLROOM BLITZ

The much-anticipated revival of the historic Abbeydale Picture House is gaining momentum, as independent hospitality operator True North Brew Co. confirms that work on the building’s basement venue – now rebranded as Abbeydale Ballroom – is well underway.

Closed since March, the space is the first stage in a multiphase regeneration of the Grade II listed site. Once home to Picture House Social, the basement is being repositioned as a vibrant social and cultural hub for Sheffield, with a planned reopening set for October.

True North’s vision for Abbeydale Ballroom includes the reactivation of multiple interconnected spaces, spanning the original ballroom and shuffleboard court, the central room, bar, diner and terrace. Alongside a strong entertainment and events offer – including live sport, pool, and regular food and drink programming – the refurbishment will celebrate original architectural features while incorporating bold, contemporary design elements.

The project represents True North’s most ambitious undertaking to date. Owner Kane Yeardley said:

“Abbeydale Ballroom is the first space we’ll reopen, and it’s going to set the tone for everything that follows within Abbeydale Picture House. It’s ambitious, but we’re all in.”

The remodelling marks the beginning of a longer-term strategy to restore the wider Picture House building and unlock its full potential as a multi-use cultural venue, with future plans including live music, comedy, art and community festivals.

The business is working closely with previous occupants CADS (Creative Arts Development Space), as well as local architects and heritage specialists, to ensure the refurbishment respects the building’s legacy while supporting future commercial use. Crucially, the venue is also being positioned as a catalyst for footfall and spend across the surrounding area – drawing visitors to the Abbeydale corridor and supporting neighbouring businesses.

Abbeydale Ballroom adds to True North Brew Co.’s established portfolio of Sheffield hospitality venues, which includes The Forum, The Broadfield, Riverside Kelham and The Punch Bowl. The company says customers can expect the same commitment to quality, independence and community connection across this latest venture.

“This is where it really begins,” added Kane.

Abbeydale Ballroom is scheduled to open in autumn 2025.

NIBS

SHEFFIELD RESIDENTS CALL FOR IMPROVED RECYCLING

Following Sheffield Council’s ‘Simpler Recycling’ public consultation in September 2024, residents have called for improvements to the city’s recycling system. The consultation sought views on waste and recycling, and over 10,000 people responded. Proposed changes include replacing the current 140L blue recycling bin with a 240L version and expanding the range of materials accepted in the brown bin. A committee meeting on 12 September will see councillors vote on the proposals.

BELL & BUXTON BIG MERGER

Sheffield law firm Bell & Buxton Solicitors has announced a merger with Sills & Betteridge, effective from 1 September 2025. The firm has been based in Sheffield for 150 years, and the merger with the expanding legal practice is projected to create a £25 million turnover. The Bell & Buxton team will remain at their current base in Telegraph House, with the combined firm to be known as Sills & Betteridge incorporating Bell & Buxton.

LOCAL AND NATIONAL CHARITIES PARTNER UP IN HEART OF THE CITY

A partnership between Sheffield-based and national charities brings the UK’s top department store for vintage fashion, Charity Super.MKT, to the corner of Cambridge Street and Pinstone Street. In collaboration with the Heart of the City development, the pop-up store aims to promote sustainable fashion – a rapidly growing sector – in one of Sheffield’s most prominent areas. Charity Super.MKT has already raised over £4.5 million for more than 50 charities and will remain in the city until the end of the year.

GLOBAL FOOD AND DRINK GIANTS HEAD TO SHEFFIELD

Sheffield will host over 150 senior leaders – including representatives from Mars, PepsiCo and Diageo – for the Connected Performance Summit on 24 September. Cohosted by IntelliAM and SKF, the invite-only event at Cutlers’ Hall will explore how AI and connected technologies are transforming manufacturing. With over 20% of the world’s top 100 food and drink brands attending, the summit highlights Sheffield’s industrial legacy and its role in driving smarter, more efficient production.

EVENT CENTRAL PLANS TAKE SHAPE

Work is officially underway on Event Central, a landmark cultural venue on Sheffield’s Fargate that aims to provide a flexible new home for the city’s creative talent.

The £14.4 million project –led by Sheffield City Council in partnership with Creative Arts Development Space (CADS) –will transform the former retail unit into a multi-storey venue specialising in exhibitions, live performances, co-working and community activity. Construction has now begun, with completion currently slated for the second half of 2026.

A newly released CGI shows the scale and ambition of the sixstorey development, with each floor dedicated to a different use. The ground floor will feature a café-bar and 200-capacity live

events space, while the upper floors will be fitted out with coworking areas, meeting rooms and flexible creative spaces.

Cllr Ben Miskell, Chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee, said the venue will “breathe life back into the building” and offer a platform for local talent.

“Sheffield is home to some legendary venues and we want Event Central to be added to that list – a place where the next great bands and artists begin their journeys, and where ideas are shared that help shape the future of the city.”

Construction will be delivered by Willmott Dixon, with part of Fargate sectioned off for site use during the build. Once works are complete, the area will be re-paved in line with recent public

RENOWNED RESTARATEURS ENTER HEART OF THE CITY

Later this year, the award-winning team behind Bench, The Pearl at Park Hill and Bench La Cave are set to open an all-new, authentic Italian restaurant – Maria – in Sheffield’s Heart of the City development.

Set to open on Wellington Street, the restaurant is a personal project for Jack Wakelin and Tom ‘Ronnie’ Aronica, taking inspiration from Ronnie’s Sicilian heritage for what will become their first city centre venture.

“It’s been in our heads for a while,” says Ronnie. “Over time I gradually started cooking more Italian food, but never really had the balls to completely go for it. But we always had the thought that

realm improvements.

Chris Yates, Yorkshire Director at Willmott Dixon, emphasised the company’s commitment to community impact.

“We’re delivering 300 hours of employment support for local residents, two new roles for people not in education or work, and over 75 weeks of apprenticeship training. Our team is also volunteering over 150 hours with local organisations.”

Community partners already engaged include FoodCycle Sheffield, Opportunity Sheffield and local schools including Notre Dame and Sheffield Springs Academy.

To date, £7.8 million of funding has been confirmed for the scheme, with the Council seeking the final allocation to unlock full delivery.

we wanted to do a proper Italian restaurant – or our idea of one.”

The roots of Maria reach back to Ronnie’s childhood summers spent with family.

“My dad’s Sicilian. Me and my sister used to go and spend the whole summer there, and I think that’s pretty much where my love of food comes from,” he explains.

“All my happy memories are around the table – chaos, food everywhere, people everywhere. It feels more me.

The £470m Heart of the City has developed into one of the largest urban regeneration projects in the UK, with Sheffield Council saying there are more exciting retail openings on their way.

Italian food is really simple, so you can’t hide. You just need good ingredients and to cook with honesty.”

The restaurant is inspired by Italian trattorias and southern European cooking, and is named after Ronnie’s grandmother, whose influence can be felt through the venue’s ethos. The brand identity has been built by Sheffield-based design agency Peter & Paul, directly from her handwritten signature, with family photos and memories woven into the design. “She knows about it and thinks it’s weird,” laughs Ronnie. “But she’s proud of what we’re doing.”

Jack adds that bringing the project to the Heart of the City felt like the right move: “We’ve had this concept for a year or two now, and it’s great to finally find a place for it in Sheffield city centre. The council have done an amazing job with

the development – we love to see the centre beginning to thrive again. We’re in really good company alongside our friends at Leah’s Yard, Cambridge Street Collective, Marmadukes and Kapital, so we are really excited to be part of this little growing pocket of independents.”

With typical Italian hospitality, Maria will be a restaurant for everyone and any occasion, featuring a galley kitchen running the length of one wall with counter seating, creating a fully open, lively space for around 46 covers. Rocket Design have begun work transforming the space across from the new HSBC, in the unit next to what was Henry’s Wine Bar.

Maria is set to open later this year on Wellington Street in Sheffield’s Heart of the City. Keep up to date via Instagram @trattoria_maria.

Stripping back the biggest business stories – what happened, who’s involved and why it ma ers to our region.

What’s the story?

Sheffield Business Improvement District (BID) has launched its proposal for a third five-year term, covering 2026-2031, backed by a £6 million investment plan

The new strategy aims to improve connectivity, business vibrancy, and the overall experience of Sheffield city centre.

What does it look like?

‘BID 3’ is structured around three core themes:

• City Care – Keeping the city clean, safe and welcoming

• City Vibe – Events, culture and campaigns that attract footfall and promote civic pride

• City Ambition – Investment, partnerships and innovation to shape the city’s future

If successful, the BID will represent over 540 businesses and continue to support events such as Bricktropolis, The Fringe at Tramlines and Lunar Chinese New Year.

What has the BID delivered so far?

In its current term (2021–2026), Sheffield BID has achieved:

• 605,000+ event visitors

• £12.5 million uplift in visitor spend

• £800,000 secured in match funding

• £1.86 million economic impact from The Fringe at Tramlines 2024

• 7,900+ hours of extra city centre cleaning each year

Who is involved?

The BID is a not-for-profit, non-political organisation funded by city centre businesses through a levy. It works closely with:

• Sheffield City Council

• Local businesses and national retailers

• Cultural and educational institutions

• Public safety and infrastructure partners

Chair Tony Stacey and Chief Executive Diane Jarvis are leading the push for a renewed mandate. Both describe BID 3 as a “bigger, bolder” step forward.

What could this mean for Sheffield?

If voted through, BID 3 say they will deliver:

• £6 million of new investment into the city centre

• A more unified city centre footprint, improving movement and experience

• Continued delivery of services and events that drive footfall, pride and trade

• Stronger cross-sector collaboration through the BID’s business-led model

What happens next?

• Ballot papers issued: 18 September

• Voting open: 19 September – 16 October

• Result announced: 17 October

To view the full business plan and check eligibility, visit: sheffieldbid.com/BID-3

Agenda

CRUNCHING THE NUMBERS

Meadowhall at 35

South Yorkshire’s retail powerhouse is marking a major milestone with a programme of celebratory events –from nostalgic throwbacks (yes, the singing bears are back) to exclusive competitions. A new mural by local artist Luke Horton has also been unveiled, featuring Sheffield icons including much-loved fundraiser John “The Man with the Pram” Burkhill.

Here’s how the three and a half decades of Meadowhall stacks up:

20 million shoppers walked through its doors in year one alone

1 in every 100 jobs in the Sheffield City Region is supported through Meadowhall’s operations

1p in every £1 spent in the region can be traced back to Meadowhall

Over 660 apprentices have earned while they learned at the centre in the last five years

8,500 people employed at peak times annually

Contributes 18% of Sheffield’s business rates

Hosts over 280 stores and more than 50 food and drink spots

£1 billion retail spend potential – with an average transaction value of £156

Officially the most dominant regional shopping centre in the UK

And a bit of trivia to mark the occasion: in 1992, Luciano Pavarotti himself made an appearance at Meadowhall, wowing crowds with his visit. The site was even built with the contingency that, if it failed, it could be converted into a prison – fortunately, that was never needed.

With Jill White of Andy Hanselman Consulting

HOOKED ON SUMMER

Sun, stunning scenery, cocktails and a ballgame – that pretty much sums up our August.

Like many businesses, it’s a quieter time of year for us, so instead of panicking, we just pack and go! This time, it was the Canadian Rockies and a quick stop in Pittsburgh – Sheffield’s sister city since 1980. We loved every single minute.

But before we left, we hosted our 3D Connect Summer Social at Kapital. The event set us up perfectly for our Canada/US tour with a party in a brewery (trust me, we visited many more breweries in both countries!). Hats off to Ben, Danny and Adam at Kapital – they’ve certainly hit the spot with this exciting new venue and treated us in style.

It was fabulous to hear about their business journey, leaping from Two Thirds Beer Co on Abbeydale Road to this ambitious, brand-new venue in the Heart of the City. We wish them all the very best with both ventures.

Andy often speaks of fishing in different ponds – well, we certainly did that across the pond!

From cocktail parties to ballgames, and even the Pittsburgh Pedal (a 16-person party on wheels – could we bring this to Sheffield?), we crammed it all in.

In Canada, we also came across the equivalent of Sheffield’s own See It Be It initiative, and were delighted to buy cookies from Hadleigh and Sona – though this time at a farmers’ market rather than the Moor Market! Very tasty they were too.

Then it was back to a very British affair – the Longshaw Sheepdog Trials – courtesy of an invite from Jane and David Richards, the current president. Who needs the Canadian Rockies when we have our very own Peaks? It was such a stunning day, and England’s green and pleasant lands were just spectacular.

This was most definitely a new pond for us to fish in – and we loved it. We’re hooked!

Same time next year, Mr Richards? We certainly hope so.

Now it’s onwards to autumn, a full calendar and plenty to look forward to.

Happy fishing!

Follow Jill at uk.linkedin.com/in/jilltywhite or find Andy Hanselman Consulting at andyhanselman.com.

Adam Bradley

BY ADAM BRADLEY BUSINESS GROWTH CONSULTANT

COLLABORATION OVER COMPETITION: THE SMARTEST GROWTH STRATEGY FOR BUSINESS

For too long, business has been framed as a battlefield. Winners and losers, price wars, and an endless cycle of outdoing the competition.

However, the most progressive and resilient entrepreneurs understand that real growth doesn’t come from fighting others. It comes from working with them.

THE SHIFT FROM RIVALRY TO PARTNERSHIP

Business today demands a new perspective.

In an interconnected world, competition in the traditional sense is no longer the most effective route to success.

Customers are not swayed by who shouts the loudest or discounts the deepest. They are influenced by value, trust, and the ability of businesses to create meaningful solutions.

Collaboration is the vehicle for that.

By joining forces with others (even those you once considered competitors), you unlock new opportunities.

Partnerships expand reach, combine expertise, and deliver outcomes no single business could achieve alone.

When businesses collaborate, they don’t just grow individually, they elevate the entire sector.

Why Competing on Price is a Losing Game

One of the most common mistakes I see is the obsession with undercutting competitors.

It’s a dangerous habit that turns entrepreneurs into “busy fools”. Working harder, delivering more, yet eroding the margins that sustain longterm success.

Instead, businesses must know their worth and price accordingly.

If you are offering a premium service or product (the Rolls Royce of your industry), then it is only right that your pricing reflects that.

Confidence in your value attracts the right clients and filters out the wrong ones.

Collaboration reinforces this.

When you align with others who share your standards, your value proposition becomes even clearer. Clients begin to see not just a product or service, but an ecosystem of quality providers they can trust.

Collaboration as Competitive Advantage

The question is no longer, “How do I beat them?” but rather, “How do we grow

together?”

Forward-thinking entrepreneurs recognise that one company’s success does not diminish another’s.

On the contrary, it often opens the door to fresh opportunities.

When businesses work in partnership, they:

• Extend their reach by accessing each other’s audiences.

• Enhance credibility through association with other trusted brands.

• Increase innovation by pooling skills and perspectives.

• Strengthen resilience by sharing resources and reducing risk.

This is not idealism. It is a proven growth strategy. The

businesses that will dominate tomorrow’s economy will be those that understand collaboration is not a compromise but a multiplier.

A Call to Business Leaders

As leaders, we must move away from scarcity thinking and the belief that someone else’s win is our loss.

The future belongs to those who embrace abundance, who understand that there is more than enough opportunity for everyone when we work together.

Price with confidence, communicate your value with clarity and above all, build relationships that strengthen rather than divide.

In business, collaboration is no longer an optional tactic. It is the ultimate competitive advantage.

bd.yorkshire@fi.co.uk

www.fi.co.uk

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BY STEVE BROWN, MD, FLUIDONE BUSINESS IT - SHEFFIELD

POST-BREACH: NAVIGATING SECURITY AFTER A CYBER ATTACK

The recent cyber attacks on major UK retail brands may have faded from the headlines, but for the organisations affected, the real work begins after the crisis. The postbreach phase marks a critical transition – from active threat response to rebuilding and strengthening systems, processes and culture.

WHAT IS POST-BREACH?

Following attacks on retailers like Marks & Spencer, Harrods and the Co-op – which caused service disruptions and financial losses – the public-facing symptoms may have subsided. Behind the scenes, however, these organisations entered a crucial phase of analysis and transformation. The breaches, likely involving ransomware and supply chain compromise, exposed gaps that must be addressed to prevent future incidents.

Post-breach doesn’t simply mean systems are back online. It’s the stage where organisations begin making informed decisions based on a clearer understanding of their vulnerabilities. A heightened awareness follows – focused on unusual network behaviour, access patterns and internal weaknesses. This new mindset must evolve into long-term monitoring and stronger security practices.

RECOVERY ISN’T THE FINISH LINE

True recovery demands a rethink of operations: verifying backups, prioritising

critical assets, and implementing safeguards to prevent recurrence.

Communication also plays a key role. Internally, staff need clear guidance. Externally, messaging must be timely, transparent and legally compliant.

‘Lessons learned’ sessions are essential. These structured reviews highlight what worked, what failed and where delays or mistakes occurred. Insights from these sessions should shape future strategies and feed into ongoing tabletop exercises that test readiness in simulated scenarios.

Cyber insurance is another major consideration post-

breach. Insurers closely examine an organisation’s response and resilience. Those able to demonstrate robust recovery protocols and documented learnings are more likely to retain or renegotiate favourable policy terms.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Post-breach isn’t about closure – it’s the start of a more security-conscious chapter. Reassessing defences, refreshing incident response plans and adapting to new threats must become part of everyday culture. Every team, from IT to leadership, plays a role in sustaining that shift.

At FluidOne, we ensure our clients are fully equipped to handle cyber threats. Alongside our IT security solutions, our dedicated cyber centre of excellence – CSA Cyber – delivers expert consultancy, Offensive Security and Managed Security services. For more information, visit our website, call us on 0114 292 3800 or email sheffieldenquiries@ fluidone.com to speak with our experts today and find out how we can help protect your business.

Lightbulb Moment

NATALIA WELCH

FOUNDER OF PURA PANELA AND CO-FOUNDER OF LORO CRISPS

From Colombian courts to South Yorkshire markets – how a

chance day out sparked a sweet idea for Natalia.

WORDS: JOSEPH FOOD / PHOTOGRAPHY: MARC BARKER

When Natalia Welch first arrived in Sheffield, she didn’t have a business plan to hand. In fact, she didn’t even speak much English. What she did have, though, was a story – and an entrepreneurial spark that would eventually lead her to launch not one, but two food brands now trading internationally.

Natalia is the founder of Pura Panela, the UK’s first dedicated brand bringing Colombian panela – a type of traditional, unrefined cane sugar – to market. It's a business born of deep cultural connection and a flash of insight in the most unexpected of places.

“I moved to the UK in 2010. Back in Colombia, my career was in law – I worked in the criminal courts, and I was a qualified lawyer,” Natalia tells me. “But I couldn’t see myself doing that forever – waking up at 8am every day, going to the same court. I saw people getting old in the job, and I didn’t want that for me.”

That realisation prompted a bold decision to leave. Natalia began exploring options to learn English abroad – considering Canada and the US before discovering an opportunity in South Yorkshire.

“The University of Sheffield had a partnership with an agency in Colombia offering 50% off English tuition for Colombians. And it wasn’t just in a language school – it was through the university itself. That really appealed to me. I thought: I’ll have access to a proper library, maybe sit in on criminal law lectures… So I came – even though I had never heard of Sheffield before in my life!”

Natalia arrived with just hardly any money in her pocket, one month of pre-booked

I WANTED TO DO SOMETHING POSITIVE FOR COLOMBIA. AND PANELA BRINGS IT ALL TOGETHER – IT’S A PRODUCT MADE BY OVER 350,000 PEOPLE IN COLOMBIA.”

accommodation and a determination to make things work. She worked as a waitress while studying English and quickly noticed the ambitions of those around her.

“All the other students were going on to do master’s degrees – so I thought, I need to do one too. I didn’t have the money, but I found a scholarship for people with entrepreneurial stories. It offered to pay for half of the tuition fees, and I just told them my story.”

That story included a childhood helping her parents in their clothing shop, selling homemade bakes at school and even running a small ice cream business from home as a child. “People would knock on the door asking for ice cream,” she laughs. “We basically took over the family freezer.”

Natalia won the scholarship and stayed in Sheffield to complete a master’s in international criminology. “It had nothing to do with business,” she admits, “and sometimes I regret that. But there was a lot of support from the university encouraging people to set up their own business – signs everywhere saying be an entrepreneur, start your own company. That stuck with me.”

Then came the moment that changed everything. “One day, I went to the Eden Project in Cornwall. They had a section representing South America – and I saw Colombia. And right there was a display about panela. It made me miss home, and suddenly I saw it differently.”

Panela is a natural, unrefined sugar made by boiling and dehydrating sugar cane juice. It’s a staple in Colombian homes – but until that moment, Natalia had never seen it as a product with commercial potential.

“I had grown up with it – you’d have coffee with panela, bake with it, use it every day. But seeing it presented in this beautiful way, explaining how it’s made by hand and packed with natural minerals… I just thought: this is amazing.”

That was her lightbulb moment. She recalls with a laugh: “I remember saying to my partner’s dad – I’ve had the best business idea! I’m going

Lightbulb Moment

to bring panela to the UK. And he just looked at me and said, ‘What’s for lunch? I still joke with him about that today.’”

Unperturbed, Natalia took her idea straight to the University of Sheffield’s enterprise team. “They were great – really helped me think about the practicalities. There was a business ideas competition at the time – if you won, you got £1,000. I entered and won.”

That early validation gave her the confidence to start. “I used the money to buy some panela from a supplier in London, then repackaged it myself. My husband’s cousin helped me design the logo – we’ve kept the hummingbird ever since. My first big customer was the university itself – they ordered 200 samples for an awards event. I now also supply to the Eden Project, which feels fitting as that's where the idea for the business came from.”

From there, Pura Panela grew steadily. Natalia began selling at local markets, baking cakes to show people how to use the product. “People kept asking to buy the cakes! I had to say, 'no – you have to buy the sugar and bake them yourself!'”

She moved from market stalls to wholesale supply – and now imports around 40 tonnes of panela to the UK every year. “I’ve had all sorts of challenges – learning to import, shipping full containers, packaging, logistics – but it’s grown into something really special.”

While sales in Sheffield are growing, most of Natalia’s customers are further afield. “London’s been a big market – a lot of coffee shops, bakers, chefs. The biggest growth recently has been in the alcohol sector – I’ve sold a full container of liquid panela to DropWorks, a rum distillery, and I’ve done collaborations with breweries. There’s a stout coming out in November – it’s called 'PANELA', a Colombian coffee porter made with Thornbridge Brewery.”

So. the big question: what exactly makes panela so special?

“It’s not refined – it’s the juice of the sugar cane, dehydrated. So it keeps the minerals, vitamins, and has no additives or chemicals. Refined sugar is 99.9% sucrose, but panela also has fructose and glucose – so your body absorbs it differently. The energy release is more balanced. It’s amazing for cyclists – it’s what the Colombian champions use!”

But for Natalia, this business was always about more than sugar.

“I studied law because I believed in social justice. I wanted to do something positive for Colombia. And panela brings it all together – it’s a product made by over 350,000 people in Colombia. Supporting that economy, bringing that to the UK – it gives meaning to what I’m doing.”

It’s also about home. Despite arriving in Sheffield with no connections, Natalia felt an immediate affinity with the city. “I always say this and people don’t believe me – but when I got to

DANIELA AND I BOTH GREW UP LOVING PLANTAIN CRISPS – WE USED TO BRING BAGS BACK FROM COLOMBIA TO GIVE TO FRIENDS. SO WE THOUGHT, WHY NOT CREATE OUR OWN?"

Sheffield, I felt like I was home. It’s a big city that feels small – calm, friendly, safe. I loved it straight away.”

That love has become a life. Natalia is now a British citizen and is raising her son in Sheffield while continuing with fresh business ideas.

Alongside Pura Panela, she’s co-founded Loro Crisps – a snack brand inspired by Colombian childhood favourites.

“Daniela [co-founder] and I both grew up loving plantain crisps – we used to bring bags back from Colombia to give to friends. So we thought, why not create our own? We’ve launched plantain crisps, and now we’re working on cassava crisps and possibly a Colombian coffee range too.”

What’s her advice for others looking to bring a piece of their culture to market?

“Validate, validate, validate. Don’t just ask your mum – she’ll always say it’s great. Test it. And if you’ve got something truly authentic, only you can bring that. Nobody can fake it. That authenticity is your power – it’s your story. If you believe in it, people will believe in you.”

purapanela.com // lorocrisps.com

Russell Thompson: Perspectives

BY RUSSELL THOMPSON, DIRECTOR ON DEMAND

YOUR WEAKEST LINK IS YOUR BIGGEST GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Most business owners waste time fixing problems that aren’t the real issue. They polish processes, buy new software and reorganise teams while the actual bottleneck sits there untouched.

Here’s the thing nobody tells you: every business has exactly one constraint that limits everything else. Find it, focus on it, and growth accelerates. Miss it, and you’re just moving problems around.

I was speaking with a business owner recently who was clearly frustrated with his situation.

“I’m working 60-hour weeks Russ, the team is at capacity, we’ve upgraded our systems twice this year, but we’re still hitting the same growth ceiling.”

SOUND FAMILIAR?

The issue wasn’t effort. It wasn’t the team. It wasn’t even the systems.

The real problem? His bottleneck was customer service. One person handling all complaints, queries, and follow-ups. It didn’t matter how many leads came ineverything ground to a halt at that single desk.

Until we sorted that constraint, nothing else mattered.

That’s the brutal truth: your business isn’t limited by how good you are at most things. It’s limited by the one thing holding everything back.

EVERY BUSINESS HAS ONE WEAK LINK

Think of your business like a chain. You can strengthen ninety-nine links, but that

one weak link determines how much weight the whole chain can carry. Most business owners make the same mistake - they keep polishing the strong links. They optimise marketing, upgrade technology, restructure teams. But the constraint stays put.

And here’s why: your bottleneck probably doesn’t look broken. It often looks busy, productive even. But everything else slows down to match its pace.

HOW I HELP CLIENTS SORT THIS OUT

Here’s my simple method for tackling your constraints:

• Diagnose: Spot the real bottleneck. Where

does work always pile up? What determines how much you can actually deliver? Don’t guess - measure what’s happening.

• Design: Focus everything on that constraint first. Make it work better through scheduling, removing interruptions. Then make everything else support it.

• Deliver: Put the fix into action. You’ll unlock capacity you didn’t know you had. Once you’ve eliminated that constraint, your business can handle more work and grow faster.

THE BOTTOM LINE I worked with a consultancy

owner convinced he needed more salespeople. They spent months recruiting, training, building a bigger pipeline.

Revenue barely shifted.

THE REAL CONSTRAINT? Their delivery process. The delivery team were already maxed out. More sales just meant longer delays and stressed-out staff. We streamlined delivery first. Removing the constraint meant they could handle 40% more clients with the same team.

DIAGNOSE. DESIGN. DELIVER.

Three simple steps to turn your constraint into your competitive advantage.

Kenwood Hall

HOSTING WITHOUT THE HASSLE

How to create seamless, standout corporate events –with help from the experts at Kenwood Hall

Planning a corporate event should be exciting – not overwhelming. Whether you’re organising a product launch, conference, or team away day, success lies in the detail. From choosing the right venue to engaging your delegates, the process can seem daunting at first. But with the right support and surroundings, it doesn’t have to be.

Enter Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa – one of Sheffield’s most iconic and versatile venues. Set within 12 acres of picturesque grounds just a mile from the city centre, Kenwood Hall offers a unique blend of heritage and modernity that makes it ideal for business events of all shapes and sizes.

More than that, it’s home to a dedicated team of event professionals who bring warmth, experience and attention to detail to every booking. We caught up with the team to get their top tips on how to plan events that impress –and why Kenwood Hall might be the perfect partner for your next one.

1. Start with a clear goal

Before diving into the logistics, know exactly what you want your event to achieve. That clarity shapes every decision.

“The most important part of the job is building strong, lasting relationships with clients – by remembering the specific little details that matter the most,” says Sales Manager Francesca Androsiglio. “We want every event to feel personal and effortless.”

2. Choose the right location Accessibility is key – and

convenience shouldn’t mean compromising on setting. Kenwood Hall’s central location, just outside the Clean Air Zone, makes it a practical choice with added wow factor.

“We want our clients to feel comfortable picking up the phone and knowing we’ll be ready to help, not just for this event, but for the next one too,” adds Fran.

3. Use in-house experts

Rely on the venue team to guide you through the booking process. Whether it’s AV, catering or room layout, it pays to ask in advance.

“We try to think of everything in advance so our clients don’t have to,” says Beverley Davidson, conference and events expert.

“From bespoke catering options to creative room layouts, our goal is to make planning as smooth and stress-free as possible.”

4. Keep attendees engaged Interactive elements can make all the difference, from team-building outdoors to informal networking indoors.

“Every event is unique, and we love tailoring solutions that bring a client’s vision to life,” says Beverley.

5. Plan your food and drink early Food and drink can make or break an event. Kenwood Hall’s in-house catering team can help design bespoke menus that energise and impress.

“We can create bespoke menus to cater for your party’s needs, and fun, refreshing drinks and snacks to keep energy levels up,” says Fran.

6. Add little touches that leave a lasting impression

Personalised touches elevate your event from good to great – whether it’s a welcome gift, branded stationery or themed activities.

“What can you do differently for your event to leave a long-lasting memory?” Fran suggests. “It’s about adding personal touches or fun activities that stay with your guests.”

7. Stay flexible with your budget

Build in some wiggle room – and work with a venue that offers flexible packages.

“Plan for your budget and flexibility,” Fran advises. “We’re here to tailor the package to your needs, not force you into a box.”

MEET THE KENWOOD HALL EVENTS TEAM

Francesca Androsiglio – Sales Manager

KENWOOD HALL AT A GLANCE

• Eight versatile meeting rooms for 2–200 guests, all with natural daylight

• 12 acres of grounds – ideal for team building and outdoor activities

• A purpose-built Conference Café for networking and breakout sessions

• Just one mile from Sheffield city centre – outside the Clean Air Zone

• Complimentary onsite parking and Wi-Fi

• Indoor pool, gym and spa facilities for post-event relaxation

• Flexible packages: day delegate, 24-hour, or room hire only

• Bespoke catering options

• Perfect for corporate events, gala dinners and business retreats

READY TO PLAN YOUR NEXT EVENT?

At Kenwood Hall, the team understands that event planning is just one of the many tasks on your list. That’s why their experienced team is ready to take care of as many – or as few – of the details as you’d like. With their expert guidance and one of Sheffield’s most stunning venues behind you, you can relax knowing your event is in safe hands.

0114 250 5600

sales@kenwoodhall.co.uk

At the heart of Kenwood Hall’s sales and events department is Francesca Androsiglio, who brings over a decade of experience in the events industry. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Fran leads the team in developing inclusive packages designed to cover every aspect of your event.

“The most important part of the job is building strong, lasting relationships with clients – by remembering the specific little details that matter the most,” she says. “We want every event to feel personal and effortless.”

Chantel Cherryholme – Weddings & Private Events Coordinator Alongside the corporate specialists, Chantel is Kenwood Hall’s wedding guru. With a warm and personable approach, she guides couples and families through every stage of planning – from first ideas to the final toast.

“Our weddings and parties are truly personal occasions,” she says. “It’s all about listening carefully to the finer details, understanding what matters most, and then creating an experience that feels effortless on the day. The smiles at the end make it all worthwhile.”

Beverley Davidson – Conference & Events Executive

When it comes to conferences and professional gatherings, Beverley is the in-house expert. With 20 + years of experience organising events from small boardroom meetings to large-scale conferences, she understands the unique demands of business planning.

“We try to think of everything in advance so our clients don’t have to,” says Beverley. “Every event is unique, and we love tailoring solutions that bring a client’s vision to life.”

The Inside Track: Charlo e Higgins

REAL INSIGHTS FROM THOSE WHO MAKE THINGS HAPPEN

Corporate partner. Award-winning cyclist. Reluctant rule-breaker. Charlotte Higgins might describe herself as “ordinary” – but the story of how she balanced a legal career with breaking national and world track cycling records is anything but. Russ Thompson sat down with Charlotte for unLTD’s Inside Track series to discover how a routineloving corporate lawyer became one of South Yorkshire’s most inspiring dual-career professionals.

IN THE FAST LANE

In 2015, Charlotte Higgins had no plans to become a national champion cyclist. In fact, she had no plans to take on a velodrome at all.

“I had no desire to ride the track. None. My husband had done a session at Derby Arena and loved it. He said I should give it a go. I told him I wasn’t riding a fixed gear bike. No brakes? No way,” she laughs.

But she did try it. And ‘like a duck to water’ is perhaps putting it lightly: by 2018, Charlotte had broken a British national record that had stood for 22 years. “It snowballed. I got accredited to ride the track, did a few public sessions, and a coach at Derby thought I had potential. Six months later, we broke a national record. That was the start of it all.”

What started as a hobby became something much bigger — and much harder to fit around a demanding legal career. Her journey to partner at Taylor & Emmet was not straightforward, and Charlotte is candid about the challenges she faced earlier in her legal life.

“The traditional path in law wasn’t open to me. I was a paralegal for six years, and the route to qualification wasn’t straightforward. I didn’t get a training contract handed on a plate — it didn’t come easy. When I was 14 or 15, there were teachers who told me that I wasn't clever enough to be a solicitor. I later went to Nottingham Law School, which at the time was the best law school outside London, and I achieved a First Class Law Degree and a Distinction in the Legal Practice Course. That made me even more determined.”

Determination is a thread that runs through her story. And it usually pays off. After rising through the ranks, she became a corporate partner at longstanding Sheffield firm Taylor & Emmet in 2022 — brought in by Rob Moore, Head of Business Legal Services, to help grow the commercial team.

“I told Rob at the time, this move had to be my last. I wasn’t going to jump firms again. So I needed to know they were okay with my cycling. He said they were. HR said the same. Within a week of joining, I got flowers and champagne for winning the national champs. That told me everything I needed to know — they were happy with it.”

Under Charlotte’s leadership, the corporate team has grown from two lawyers to five plus support staff. Team turnover has practically quadrupled ▶

WHEN I

WAS 14 OR 15,

THERE WERE TEACHERS WHO TOLD ME THAT I WASN'T CLEVER ENOUGH TO BE A SOLICITOR. I LATER ACHIEVED A FIRST CLASS LAW DEGREE AND A DISTINCTION IN THE LEGAL PRACTICE COURSE.

Guide

The Inside Track: Charlo e Higgins

▶and they’re now handling some of the biggest deals in the firm’s history.

“We’re very busy right now. It’s not just more work – it’s better quality work. And that attracts even more of the same. It becomes a cycle.”

The word “cycle” feels apt. Because every Saturday, at 5am, Charlotte is up and on the road to Derby for two hours of intense track training. Sundays are spent on endurance rides. And the rest of the week is slotted around the demands of high-performance sport and high-stakes commercial law.

“Time management doesn’t faze me. I like routine. I’m very regimented. If I say I’ll do something, it gets done. My calendar is colour-coded; my training diary gives me a compliance score. If it isn’t green, I’m not happy,” she says with a grin.

Obsessive, perhaps, but it clearly pays dividends. Charlotte has now won 30 national and world titles combined. Her next target? “40 by 40.” She turns 40 in October 2026 so the work is cut out clearly.

“It’s ambitious, but it keeps me focused. This year is a big one. We’re targeting the world record again in my age category. I’ve broken it unofficially, but to make it official I need to do it at the Worlds. The conditions need to be right, I need to be right. Everything has to align.”

That pressure can be intense. “Give me a multimillion transaction and I won’t bat an eyelid. But put me on a start line for the pursuit, and I’m falling to pieces. It’s a different kind of stress.”

She may be process-driven, but there's also a deeply human side to Charlotte's story. In the interview, she opens up about the more difficult side of elite sport, especially the behaviour of some fellow competitors.

“Some of the people I race against haven’t always been nice. After the 2024 Nationals, I wasn’t in a great headspace. I told my husband I was done. But then I thought, no. I’ve earned my place here. I’m not letting anyone else decide that for me.”

BUT THEN I THOUGHT, NO. I’VE EARNED MY PLACE HERE. I’M NOT LETTING ANYONE ELSE DECIDE THAT FOR ME.”

It’s a response that echoes her early experiences in law. Her first job was tough. The hours were brutal. The treatment wasn’t always fair.

“But here I am,” she says. “I think it’s important people see that you can come from a completely ordinary background and still get where you want to go. I’m the first lawyer in my family, and now a world champion cyclist too.”

So, what fuels this relentless drive? ▶

The Inside Track: Charlo e Higgins

▶In part, a persistent, deeply-embedded desire to prove people wrong. In part, an unshakeable commitment to seeing things through.

“I don’t like missing training. I don’t like missing deadlines. I do what I say I’ll do. And I think that sets a tone for the team. They see how I handle negotiations, even when the other side try to talk down to us. We don’t take any rubbish. But we’re fair – that’s just as important.”

Charlotte’s team is now predominantly female – something she says brings added strength.

“They know my story. They know I started as a paralegal. They see the work

WHAT IS INSIDE TRACK?

In an age of curated success and quiet comparison, Inside Track is about flipping the script. These conversations focus on honesty over hype, and people who turn setbacks into stepping stones. The aim is simple – to source inspiration, not envy.

To find out more about Russ’s work and how you can join the conversation, visit director-on-demand.co.uk

I put in. I think it motivates them. And I always say, you’re only as good as your team. We’ve got a great one.”

And what happens after 40?

“No idea. I said this year would be my last. But I’ve already signed up for next year. I’ll stop when I stop winning,” she answers, only half-joking.

In the meantime, Charlotte is also planning her next career steps. “I’ve told the firm I aspire to be Head of Corporate, as my ultimate goal is to run the team.”

Until that point, she’ll continue to do what she’s always done: stick to the plan, follow the process, show up.

“I like the training more than the racing. Racing is stressful. Training is routine. It gives me structure. It clears my head. It makes everything else manageable.”

As the interview winds down, we arrive at an important question: what law would she pass, if she could? “Something about motorway lanes. If you’re not using lane one or two, and you’re just sitting in lane four, there should be some sort of punishment.”

Spoken like someone who knows the value of staying in lane – but isn’t afraid to accelerate past when it matters most.

tayloremmet.co.uk

A career reset took Rich Davies to the centre of Sheffield’s business networks. Now the Jibba Jabba director tells Joseph Food that people power – and giving back – proved the springboard for his career.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARC BARKER

In 2015, Rich Davies took a decisive step in his career. For eight years he had been an account manager at a Sheffield-based printers, seeing jobs through from quote to press to delivery for some big clients including Google and Harrods. The work was high profile yet faceless – conducted mostly by email, with little sense of people or place. Seeking something more local and human, rooted in the city he calls home, he chose to leave.

“I targeted a few local businesses,” he tells unLTD. “I went for an interview at Sheffield Chamber, got the job. It wasn’t about the money; I actually took a pay cut because I needed to start again.”

The Chamber proved game-changing. In a role that put him at the centre of South Yorkshire’s business ecosystem, he refined an approach that still underpins his work today. “That’s where I learned two ears, one mouth – in that order. Listen to people and become a good referrer… don’t just try and sell at them.”

That approach would become a central tenet of Rich’s professional life – building

genuine connections, helping others and building trust before business.

Alongside the day job, Rich began building something of his own. He launched R3D2, a social media management company named for his sons. “It’s my kids – Rhys and Riley – so Rich, Rhys and Riley is the R3, and then somebody clever made up the D2 to make it sound like a robot from Star Wars, but I’m really not interested in Star Wars whatsoever!” The side project grew and soon forced a decision. With the Chamber unable to accommodate part-time, he took the plunge to run the business fulltime.

That leap owed something to a line he’d heard from an speaker at the MADE Festival. “She said, ‘Jump and the net will appear.’ And I firmly believe that now… I’m more of a risk taker.” Entrepreneurship delivered a fast education. Rich won clients, honed his service and discovered where solo ventures can stall. “I knew it’d be hard – harder than I ever thought –but it got to a point where I grew it to a certain level and I just couldn’t grow that anymore. It’s lonely place on your own.”

The starkest warning came from his body. “I got Bell’s palsy, partly from the stress. That was the kick – right, I need to go. I need some security.” He stepped back from the business and, after a brief spell elsewhere, joined Affinity IT.

I LEARNED TWO EARS, ONE MOUTH – IN THAT ORDER. LISTEN TO PEOPLE AND BECOME A GOOD REFERRER… DON’T JUST TRY AND SELL AT THEM.”

Affinity gave him a reset and a platform. He arrived as an account manager and broadened his remit into modern marketing, bringing a growing confidence in networking with him. What began at the Chamber as an obligation became second nature.

Running in parallel – and central to his personal growth – was volunteering. In

2010 he and his brother had turned up to a session with the Sheffield Wednesday Supporters’ Trust. Matchday roles and community schemes followed, but the standout contribution was digital. “I did all the social media. We had 2,000 Twitter followers for @Wednesdayite at the time… we grew it to about 25k just by doing things differently.” He put the matchday experience front and centre well before fan influencers poured into the stands –pictures around the ground, supporters in focus, updates for those following from afar, including one regular in Australia.

A key lesson learned from that period?

“If you have to think twice about a tweet, don’t post it,” he laughs.

Rich later brought the same energy to a voluntary role at Hallam FC, running the programme and shaping the club’s online tone of voice, while building visibility that would feed back into his professional life. Keen to give back and broaden his understanding of how the city works, he applied to join Chamber Council and has stayed involved for years.

From Affinity he stepped up to Highlander as Business Development Manager, moving from account stewardship into a growth brief. He also added ambassador roles with the Institute of Directors and The Archer Project – hats he still wears – reflecting a service mindset he traces to his father Royston's years in the Scouts.

But one of the most profound influences on Rich’s business journey was a mentor he met at Highlander. “A guy called Rich Field. He’s in his 80s now and an absolute legend of business – one of the few remaining characters. One of the things he taught us was ‘Seven Habits of a Successful Person’ – stuff like ‘Begin with the end in mind’, ‘Sharpen the saw’. Stuff I didn’t understand at the time, but now find incredibly valuable.”

“Many people in Sheffield know Rich. He’s taught loads of people. And there’s so much stuff I learned at Highlander that I’m now doing at Jibba Jabba.”

That’s Rich’s current role – Director at Jibba Jabba, a growing IT and telecoms company with bases in Doncaster and soon Sheffield. With over 10 years’ experience in IT across previous roles, the position perfectly unites his technical expertise with an in-depth understanding of Sheffield’s business networks and a focus on driving growth.

“It was a step up. I didn’t want to be going sideways anymore. And the relationship I’ve got with Ash – he’s probably the first boss I can be super honest with. I can challenge him. That relationship’s really important.”

Looking ahead, he sees momentum – for the company and for himself.

Personally, he is exploring how he can add value beyond the day job, including nonexecutive director positions that align with his skills and temperament. “I’ve got one non-exec role in the pipeline that might turn into something early next year… I wouldn’t mind a couple right now. But I also think: what do I get the most benefit from, personally and professionally?”

Threaded through it all is a mindset shift that began when he first embedded himself into South Yorkshire’s business scene: seek out people, keep growing and act with purpose. The email chains that once defined his days have given way to conversations and communities to continue learning from: “When I left school, I was like, I’ve had enough – exams and studying done forever. But now I’m just like a sponge. I just want to learn more and more.”

Web: jibbajabba.co.uk LinkedIn: jibba-jabba

Twitter/X: @jibbajabbauk

QUICKFIRE WITH RICH

What’s Jibba Jabba’s USP?

Ethical, secure future. We won’t sell you something you don’t need. There are so many instances we walk into offices and see people are being charged for things they don’t need. What excites you about South Yorkshire’s business scene?

There’s so much opportunity in this region – just go and look at the work they’re doing at the Advance Manufacturing Research Centre. We’re typical South Yorkshire people – we don’t shout about it. But there are so many exciting things going on and it’s only going to get better.

Best business advice? Jump and the net will appear.

TEAM BUILDING AT KENWOOD HALL

SILVER

Indoor: Cocktail Making –from £90pp + VAT

Outdoor: Crystal Maze –from £108pp + VAT

Evening: Betrayers –from from £108pp+ VAT

Alternative event options: Apprentices

Task Master

Generation Game Qube

GPS Treasure Hunt

Masterpiece

Quid Games

Wall Street Winners School Sports Day

Indoor (Sustainability): Terrarium Workshop – from £108pp + VAT

Outdoor: Soapbox Derby –from £112pp + VAT

Charity: Putt for Purpose –from £112pp + VAT

Alternative event options: Lights Camera Action Challenge 100 Olympic Sports Day

CSI Experiences

GOLD

Indoor: Bake Off – from £142pp + VAT

Outdoor: It’s a Knockout – from £117pp + VAT

Charity: Charity Bike Build – from £143pp + VAT

Alternative event options: Charity Sleep Pod

Chocolate Making

Team Master Chef*

MARTHA AND HEPSIE

SISTER ACT

Siblings Martha and Hepsie have spent 15 years building a bold, joyful and uplifting creative brand rooted in community, creativity and a love of the natural world. Now, they’re being recognised as part of the 2025 Small Biz 100 list – a nationwide campaign celebrating the incredible contribution of independent businesses across the UK.

For the duo, it’s a meaningful nod to the highs and lows of running a small business while navigating life’s twists and turns. They joined unLTD’s Ruby Deakin to reflect on their journey – and what the accolade means to them

What are your main sources of inspiration when creating your designs?

Martha: I’ve always loved animals and the outdoors, so our first collection was mostly birds and animal prints. I left London about 13 years ago and moved back to Sheffield, where I’d grown up from the age of 10, so my inspirations

have changed over time. We still design really colourful, uplifting prints, but now there’s more of a focus on optimism and everyday joy. You’ve got a washbag – but it makes you smile.

Hepsie: We’ve grown a lot over the years – being in places like John Lewis and Amazon – and then contracted again due to life experiences. Most women running small businesses will tell you: it goes hand in hand with juggling everything else. Our mum was very poorly, we both had children, and we had to redirect our focus. But that allowed us to re-evaluate the visuals and reconnect with what inspires us.

A lot of your work is inspired by the Sheffield landscape. Why do you think so many artists find their creative spark in this city?

Martha: It’s just an amazing, creative, innovative city. We’ve got two universities, the countryside on the doorstep, a great music scene, and loads of street art. You can’t help but be inspired by it.

Hepsie: And there’s a lot of Yorkshire pride too. I live in Devon, but our connection to Sheffield has always been strong because Mum and Martha are based here. It’s a real focus – it fuels a lot of the work.

Your designs are stocked all over Sheffield in local makers’ shops and markets. How has that support shaped your journey?

Martha: The internet is great, but people still value face-to-face shopping – and being able to hold something in their hands. We want our products to be the best quality and have a long lifespan. We were one of the first businesses in the pop-up shop in the Winter Gardens, and now we’re in lots of little shops around the city.

Hepsie: Retail definitely oscillates. It was very online-focused, but now people are turning away from that a bit. Shopping is becoming an experience again. Sheffield is such a big city with room for all kinds of outlets, and that serves us really well.

What’s it been like working with other local makers in Sheffield?

Martha: Doing face-to-face markets like Nether Edge and Sharrowvale, I’ve met so many brilliant Sheffield makers. About 18 months ago, a group of us formed Sheffield Creative Collective – a cohort of small, women-owned businesses that met through markets and

events. We launched our first catalogue last year, hosted an event at Mester’s Market in Leah’s Yard, and we’ve got more to come. Small business can be isolating, so it’s great to have a support network.

Hepsie: People often assume retail is cut-throat, but we’ve found the opposite. You’re the only one who can create what you create – your perspective is unique. So sharing and collaborating doesn’t make you smaller; it helps you grow.

Tell us about your work with the amazing Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

Hepsie: That’s part of our Gift Wrap That Gives campaign, which we’ve run for about eight years. I’ve always built philanthropy into the business. It’s a lovely concept – someone creates something beautiful to give to someone else, and it also does good. This is our second year supporting Sheffield Hospitals Charity. It’s partly because of our Sheffield roots, but also because of all they did for our mum when she was poorly and eventually passed away. We want to acknowledge that and give back.

What will the Small Biz 100 recognition mean for your business going forward?

Hepsie: It’s already opened a few more doors. We’re proud to be part of a campaign that highlights how vital small businesses are in the UK – and how women are creating and running them while raising families. The support and opportunities you get from being in this cohort are fantastic. It’s like someone’s standing by the door saying, “It’s open – just walk through.” Being part of that is amazing, and our mum would be so proud. We always say: put yourself forward for things, because you are worthy of them.

Martha: We just want to keep making high quality, optimistic designs that serve a purpose. We don’t want to create for the sake of it – there always has to be a reason and a story. We’d love to collaborate more and grow through those relationships. We’re stronger together than we are alone.

marthaandhepsie.com @marthaandhepsie

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SHEFFIELD CO-OP BEANIES WHOLEFOODS IS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS SUCCESS WORDS: JOSEPH FOOD

As it approaches its 40th anniversary, Beanies Wholefoods stands as a model of sustainable retail done right. Established in the early 1980s, the Sheffield-based workers’ co-operative has grown from a small independent shop into a thriving ethical grocery business – balancing commercial resilience with a longstanding commitment to local sourcing, low-impact operations and community values.

unLTD sat down with co-op company director Ella Kent to find out more about how Beanies works behind the scenes and what’s next for this Sheffield institution.

“Beanies started off in Hillsborough and then moved to a little shop just down the road, which was basically running a business out of a Sheffield terrace,” explains Ella Kent, one of Beanies’ workerowners. “About five years ago, we moved to our current home in Crookesmoor, and the business just grew with us.”

The latest site – more spacious, more visible and complete with a small car park and a hub for their organic box deliveries – is a long way from the cramped shelves of the early days. But the ethos remains unchanged: local produce, sustainable practices and strong ties to the community.

Beanies is run as a workers’ co-operative, meaning it’s owned equally and operated by its full-time staff. “All full-time co-op members are also company directors,” Ella says. “So we make the decisions together. It’s more resilient as a business model and it keeps wealth in the local economy.”

It’s a culture that shapes how Beanies operates behind the scenes too, with staff

trained to recognise and care for produce rather than rely on plastic packaging or automation. Free from the need to cater to shareholders or executive salaries, it’s about investing instead in people and sustainable systems that work.

Those systems proved their worth during the pandemic, when Beanies adapted almost overnight. Its popular organic veg box scheme became something of a lifeline for many households. “A third of our business is the veg boxes now,” Ella adds. “We deliver all across Sheffield, out into the Hope Valley and even the Peaks.”

And while many businesses are still recovering, Beanies is back to pre-Covid footfall – perhaps even busier. A section of the team gets up at 3 or 4am most days to source non-organic produce fresh from the wholesale market, and their organic section is the largest in Yorkshire. “At this time of year, loads of the produce is from the UK,” Ella says. “If it says local, then we know the farmers. Some of it’s grown just a few miles away in the Moss Valley.”

Their relationship with local growers isn’t just about provenance. It’s also about systems. Beanies runs a closed-loop waste cycle, meaning leftover compost from fruit and veg gets taken back to the farms it came from. “It’s really so simple,” Ella says. “But supermarkets just aren’t equipped to work that way. We can, because we’ve built these partnerships.”

That attention to sustainability touches every part of the shop – from plastic-free alternatives to refillable cleaning supplies and beauty products. “We always prioritise

organic, fair trade and buying from other co-ops,” says Ella. One key supplier is Suma Wholefoods, the largest equal-pay workers’ co-operative in Europe. Others, like Lembas or Brindisa, reflect Beanies’ commitment to quality as well as fairness.

Inside the shop, the range is genuinely impressive. Fresh organic produce, international ingredients, bulk dried goods, vegan dairy alternatives, glutenfree staples, natural health and beauty items, local sweet treats and candles – you could easily do a full weekly shop without needing to go anywhere near a supermarket.

And that’s kind of the point.

“When people come here, we want them to feel relaxed,” Ella says. “It’s food, right? It’s something you do every day, so it should be pleasurable. And you shouldn’t feel stressed or undervalued while shopping for it.”

Customers clearly agree. Beanies enjoy high levels of staff retention, loyal shoppers who’ve stayed with them for decades

GOING GREEN

Total sales of organic food and drink in the UK reached £3.7billion in 2024, representing a 7.3% increase over the previous year –and double the value compared to 2014 (£1.86billion). Source: soilassociation.org

and a growing number of new customers drawn in by the store’s refreshingly human approach. “People come in as students, maybe just buying eggs and spring onions,” says Ella. “Then they discover the organic section, stick around in Sheffield –and suddenly they’re lifelong customers.”

That community role extends beyond the shopfront. Beanies donates regularly to food charities across Sheffield, sells “just meals” from Food Works without taking profit and offers a 10% discount on anything bought in-store to be donated to food banks.

Their veg box system allows customers and business workers to eat seasonally, reduce packaging and support sustainable farms – all from the comfort of their front door or office space. “Even though I work here, I still get a box delivered,” Ella says. “It helps me stick to a budget, eat organic, and plan my meals without the stress.”

As Beanies prepares to mark four decades of bringing the good stuff to hungry Sheffielders, the team is more

focused than ever on doing things properly. “We don’t need to expand,” Ella says. “We just want to keep getting better at what we do.”

beanies.coop @beanieswholefoods 1 Barber Road S10 1EA

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Telephone:

It’s nearly 2026 (the future!) and your website is more than just a shop window. It can be a fully functioning business asset – working around the clock to capture opportunities, nurture relationships and keep the wheels turning.

Smart automation doesn’t just save time – it builds stronger customer experiences and frees you up to focus on what really matters: growing your business.

Below, I’ve put together five ways to put your website to work. They might not always be flashy, but they’re powerful tools that can make a real difference.

1. AUTOMATED LEAD CAPTURE, NURTURING AND FOLLOW-UPS

The days of waiting for someone to fill in a “Contact us” form and hoping for the best are over. With automation, your website can capture leads and follow up instantly.

Imagine a visitor downloading a guide or signing up to your newsletter. Within minutes, they receive a personalised email or WhatsApp to say thanks, introduce your brand and offer the next step. Over time, a sequence of helpful messages builds trust and keeps your business front of mind – long after they’ve left your site.

It’s like having a dedicated sales team, gently nudging prospects towards becoming loyal customers.

2. ONLINE BOOKING AND SCHEDULING

No more endless back-and-forth emails to arrange appointments. An online booking system built into your site lets customers choose a time that suits them, syncing directly with your calendar. The real magic comes with reminders – automated emails or

BY MARK RAWSON, SEVEN HILLS CREATIVE

texts that reduce no-shows and keep your day running smoothly. Whether you’re a consultant, fitness coach or salon owner, bookings can be confirmed, rescheduled or cancelled without extra admin. If you offer a service, you can even take deposits.

Customers love the convenience – and you’ll love the time it frees up. It’s professional, seamless and makes your business more accessible.

3. E-COMMERCE UPSELL WORKFLOWS

Make it easier for your customers by suggesting related products or upgrades at just the right time before checkout. A customer buying coffee might be offered a reusable cup; someone ordering a laptop case could see matching accessories.

These tailored suggestions not only improve the shopping experience but also increase your average order value – without the hard sell. Post-purchase emails can keep the conversation going, recommending items based on what they’ve already bought.

Done right, it feels helpful, not pushy – turning one-time buyers into repeat customers and boosting your revenue with minimal effort.

4. AUTOMATED REPORTING DASHBOARDS

We all hate reporting, right? Many business owners spend hours trawling through spreadsheets or waiting for updates from different systems. With an automated dashboard, that frustration disappears.

Your website can connect to your sales, stock and enquiry data – pulling everything together in seconds. Imagine logging in and instantly seeing today’s revenue, yesterday’s enquiries or current

inventory levels. No chasing, no delays – just clear information at your fingertips.

That kind of visibility helps you make quicker decisions and spot opportunities you might otherwise miss.

5. INTEGRATION WITH YOUR CRM

Keeping customer information up to date can be a headache. But when your website talks directly to your CRM (customer relationship management system), it takes away the hassle.

Every new enquiry, purchase or sign-up is automatically logged, so you always have a full picture of your customers. No more copying and pasting details. No more missed follow-ups.

It means your team can see who’s engaged, what they’ve bought and when they were last contacted – all without lifting a finger. This connection helps you stay organised and deliver a more personalised, professional service.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Your website should be more than a digital brochure. With the right automation, it becomes a smart business tool – capturing leads, handling bookings, driving sales, reporting on performance and keeping customer records up to date.

These changes aren’t about replacing people – they’re about giving you more time to do the things only you can do.

In short: let your website do the heavy lifting, while you take the credit.

To find out more, or if you’ve got questions about how we could help make your website more efficient, get in touch at: sevenhillscreative.co.uk

LIVE TRIBUTE ACTS

£46.95 per adult

Indulge in a sumptuous three-course meal served with freshly brewed coffee, followed by captivating live entertainment.

Friday 28th November: Niqi as Tina Turner

Friday 5th December: Luke as Freddie Mercury

Friday 19th December: Gemma as Whitney Houston

Family Festive Events

Breakfast with Santa

December 22, 23 & 24

Christmas Day Lunch

Celebrate Christmas Day in style with a luxurious festive lunch at Kenwood Hall.

£92 per adult | £46 per child (3-12 years)

Join us for a magical morning with Santa! Bring the whole family and create cherished memories as you enjoy a delicious breakfast in the joyful company of Santa Claus himself.

£22.95 per adult £17.95 per child (under 2s go free)

Lunch with the Grinch

December

14

Join us for a lunch like no other, with the Grinch himself joined by Cindy Lou Who, and a lively party host to make it a day to remember! Enjoy a delicious finger buffet whilst the kids play fun games, activities & dances.

£16.96 per adult £22.95 per child (under 2s go free)

NYE Family event

Start the evening off with a festive drinks reception, feast on a delicious buffet style meal, be amazed by the mesmerising talents of our resident magician, then hit the dance floor.

£69 per adult | £39 per child

When Kat Derbyshire set up her HR consultancy seven years ago, it wasn’t just a fresh start – it was a leap into the unknown. “If you knew me well, you’d know that I’m probably one of the most non risk-taking people you’d ever meet,” she says, laughing. “So, to think I actually did that, managed to hold my nerve and get it done, in some ways, is quite surprising. But the desire to do it was there – and I just got out there and made it work.”

Since founding Black Kat HR in 2018, Kat has been helping small business owners navigate the at times murky world of employment law, people management and HR best practice. After a career spanning corporate call centres and national HR roles, she knew exactly what small business owners were missing – and why it mattered.

“Most of the time, business owners in small businesses don’t necessarily know much about HR as a subject, but also probably don’t have what the big companies have – an internal HR department,” she explains. “They don’t have it, they don’t need it, but they do need access to help.”

That’s where Black Kat HR comes in. Based in Barnsley but working with clients across Yorkshire and beyond, Kat offers outsourced HR services to companies who want the support without the overhead. “It’s outsourcing your HR to someone with expertise in that area,” she says. “I set this business up with a view to provide small businesses who don’t have a ‘me’ already in their business with access to help and expertise.”

It’s support that goes beyond ticking legal boxes. With employment law changing frequently – especially with the new

Labour government introducing reforms – Kat says it’s more important than ever that small businesses get the right advice. “What I’m finding is, for a lot of businesses, when they’re talking about the new stuff coming, often they’ve not actually even got into place what’s here now,” she says. “So it’s kind of uncovering that stuff first. Let’s worry about getting to today, and then we’ll worry about what’s coming next.”

Kat makes it her job to stay on top of every change, so her clients don’t have to. “I keep on top of those things so that my clients don’t need to – they get on with doing what their day job is,” she explains. “They’re proactively kept up to date with what’s coming, what’s happening, what it means for them. I update policies, handbooks and contracts so they’re always on top of it.”

Though some might run a mile from HR handbooks and disciplinary procedures, Kat genuinely loves her work – and it shows. “Lots of people go, really, that is not what I want to do. When I get home on a night, sit there and readjust my company handbook? Just no,” she jokes. “But I love it.”

Her enthusiasm is backed by

years of practical experience. After working as a national HR manager in logistics, construction and manufacturing, Kat had a brief stint at a firm that was trialling HR consultancy as a service. “That gave me a flavour of the consultancy world,” she says. “It was a light bulb moment – I was doing it for somebody else and thought, why not just do it for myself?”

And so Black Kat HR was born. “I got myself a set of business cards and went out to every sort of networking event you could shake a stick at,” she says. “I just started talking to people about their businesses – have they got a team now? Do they plan to have a team? What are the challenges?”

Seven years on, she’s built a solid foundation of clients who value the tailored, personal approach. “I pride myself on really getting to know the businesses I work with – what they’re good at, what they struggle with, what they’re comfortable with and what they’re not,” she says. “That’s why I’ve purposely kept the business as just me from a client-facing perspective. Clients often tell me they hate having to repeat everything again to the next person – that’s not the experience I give them.”

While Kat does offer ongoing retained HR services, she’s just as happy to help on a project-byproject basis or with one-off advice. “If people just want a bit of advice for an hour on a call, that’s available,” she says. “If they want a particular project doing – a redundancy programme or dealing with a grievance – that’s available too. Not everyone needs to sign up for a seven-year contract.”

She’s also well aware that many business owners are tackling HR for the first time. “Often they don’t know what they don’t know – and that can be a big challenge,” she says. “But the strength is knowing you don’t know it and finding someone who can help.”

Part of her role is to guide new employers through that steep learning curve – from contracts and policies to understanding working hours, holiday pay and best practice.

“Because I work with lots of different businesses, I know what normal looks like,” she says. “So I can share that best practice stuff and say, typically, businesses like yours tend to offer this or that.”

Kat admits she’s still learning herself – not about HR, but about

I’ve built a lovely client base now, I’m still learning and growing. I don’t think it’s a journey you ever really arrive at.”

running a business. “HR is the bit I knew. The running a business bit was what I’ve had to learn over the last seven years,” she says. “It still feels like every day is a school day – but I really like that.”

Seven years in, the business is thriving – and so is Kat. “It was terrifying at first. But when you think, right, if I don’t get some business in, I’m not quite sure how I’m paying the mortgage this month – it does motivate you,” she says.

“I’ve built a lovely client base now, and I’m still learning and growing. I don’t think it’s a journey you ever really arrive at.”

For small businesses looking for flexible, expert HR support with a personal touch, Black Kat HR might just be the call they’ve been needing to make.

BUSINESS LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY – PROTECTING YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET

Most businesses insure their buildings, equipment and other assets in case something goes wrong. But what about the people who make the key decisions? What happens if a business owner or director suddenly becomes unable to act – due to illness, an accident or even being away on holiday?

BY KATHRYN WHEELDON, HEAD OF PRIVATE CLIENT AT BANNER JONES SOLICITORS

Without someone legally appointed to step in, even temporarily, crucial decisions can be delayed or missed. This can seriously affect the future of the business.

What is a Business Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows someone (the donor) to appoint another person (the attorney) to make decisions on their behalf if they’re unable to do so.

A Business LPA works in the same way but specifically covers business matters. It can be used:

∙ Temporarily – for example, if the business owner is travelling or unwell

∙ Permanently – if the owner loses capacity due to illness or injury

Types of LPA

There are two standard types of LPA for individuals:

∙ Health and welfare

∙ Property and financial affairs

A Business LPA, meanwhile, gives someone the authority to make decisions about the running of the business. It’s important to appoint different attorneys for personal and business LPAs, as the responsibilities are very different. A business attorney should have the skills and knowledge to step into the donor’s role and follow clear instructions about what they’re allowed to do.

Who should consider a

Business LPA?

A Business LPA is especially relevant for:

∙ Sole traders and selfemployed individuals – as they are the business

∙ Company directors – if a director’s incapacitation isn’t addressed in the Articles of Association or Memorandum of Association

∙ Business partners – where partnership agreements don’t cover incapacity If a company has multiple directors and one loses capacity, the others may want to remove them. However, under the Mental Health (Discrimination) Act 2013, a director can’t automatically be removed due to mental incapacity.

Specific clauses must be included in the Articles of Association to allow for this –and we can help review and update these documents.

For businesses with only one director, or sole proprietors, a Business LPA is even more critical. It allows someone to step in and make decisions, ensuring the business can continue, be sold or wound up properly.

Choosing the right attorney

Anyone appointed as a business attorney must:

∙ Understand the business and its direction

∙ Be capable of making informed decisions

∙ Be trusted to act in the best interests of the business

It’s also wise to discuss the

Business LPA with other directors or partners so everyone understands the arrangement and the attorney’s role.

Getting professional advice

Setting up a Business LPA involves more than just filling in a form. It’s essential to review your company’s Articles of Association and any partnership agreements to make sure everything aligns. Working with our LPA experts, our Business Legal Services team will guide you through the process and include these reviews as part of the service.

For further advice, contact info@bannerjones.co.uk or call 0333 200 2301

IN THE FRAME

For over 30 years, Sheffield-based double glazing company Global Windows has been a trusted name across the region. But rather than simply list the benefits of their bespoke products, we’ve asked the team to walk us through a recent project where the customer wanted to upgrade their windows and doors – while preserving the charm of the original features.

NORTON INSTALLATION

This project involved replacing old timber windows and a front door with new PVC alternatives, carefully replicating the existing leaded designs at the customer’s request. While they were keen to retain the traditional look, improved energy efficiency and acoustic performance were a top priority.

The team installed:

• 2 x white five-section bay windows, also with square lead and matching coloured detail in the tops

• 1 x white casement window with square lead and coloured leads in the top section, matched to the original

• 1 x composite front door with toplight and matching composite side panels. The slab has a smooth skin finish designed to replicate timber and features glazing that mirrors the home’s original glass designs (All windows installed with dummy sashes for balanced sightlines)

SYIP is a £3 million programme supporting organisations across the region to innovate and grow; develop new ideas, improve processes, access new markets, and launch new products.

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MICROSOFT COPILOT + GPT5: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS (AND HOW SIMODA CAN HELP)

BY HARRY THOMAS, MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept – it’s a practical tool transforming the way businesses operate. Microsoft’s integration of OpenAI’s GPT-5 into Microsoft Copilot marks a significant milestone in this journey. It looks set to trigger a fundamental shift in how organisations leverage AI to improve productivity, decision-making and customer experience.

Why GPT-5 is a game-changer for business

Previous AI models were good at generating text and automating simple tasks, but GPT-5 introduces something far more powerful: contextual reasoning at scale. It can understand complex, multistep instructions, interpret nuanced language and adapt its approach based on the context of your work. Microsoft has built a model router into Copilot that intelligently decides when to provide quick, efficient answers – and when to apply deeper reasoning for more complex tasks.

What this means for businesses is that Copilot can become far more than just a helpful assistant. It can play a fundamental role in developing strategy, analysing data, interpreting trends and providing actionable recommendations – all while operating securely within your Microsoft 365 environment.

Turning data into decisions

One of the most compelling benefits of GPT-5 in Copilot is its ability to transform raw data into meaningful insights. Imagine asking Copilot to review last quarter’s sales performance, identify

anomalies and suggest three actions to improve margins. In the past, Copilot might have simply summarised the figures. With GPT-5 built in, it now evaluates patterns, considers historical context and delivers recommendations that are both data-driven and practical.

This level of reasoning accelerates decision-making across the business. Finance teams can close books faster and with fewer errors. Operations leaders can identify bottlenecks before they escalate. Marketing teams can optimise campaigns in real time based on performance data. The result? A more agile organisation, able to respond quickly to changing conditions.

Boosting productivity across the organisation

Time is one of the most valuable resources in any business – and GPT-5 is here to help reclaim it. Mundane tasks that usually take hours, such as drafting reports, summarising meetings or preparing presentations, can now be completed in minutes. The real advantage, though, isn’t

just speed – it’s quality. GPT-5 doesn’t just produce text; it creates high-quality, contextaware output that aligns with your brand voice and business objectives.

A project manager, for example, can ask Copilot to turn meeting notes into a structured action plan, complete with deadlines and owners. A customer service team can generate personalised responses that reflect the customer’s history and preferences. These capabilities free up your team from repetitive, low-value tasks – allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth.

Enhancing customer experience

Customer expectations have never been higher, and GPT-5 gives businesses the tools to meet them. Copilot can help service teams resolve queries faster by drafting accurate, context-rich responses using your knowledge base and recent interactions. For sales teams, it can generate tailored proposals and presentations

in minutes – improving responsiveness and increasing win rates.

By embedding GPT-5 into everyday workflows, businesses can deliver a more personalised, efficient and consistent customer experience – without increasing costs.

Security and compliance you can trust

Adopting AI at scale requires confidence in its security and governance. Microsoft has rigorously tested GPT-5 through its AI Red Team to ensure resilience against misuse, while Copilot operates within the robust compliance and security framework of Microsoft 365. For organisations in regulated industries, this means you can embrace innovation without compromising on data privacy or governance.

Where does Simoda come in?

Implementing Copilot isn’t just about switching it on. It’s about making sure it works for your business. Simoda helps organisations identify highimpact use cases, ensure data readiness and provide training so teams can unlock value from day one. We also offer tailored pilots to demonstrate ROI quickly and build a roadmap for scaling AI across your organisation.

Our approach combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of business processes – ensuring Copilot doesn’t just save time, but drives measurable outcomes. Want to see it in action?

Book your free Microsoft Copilot demo with Simoda today: simoda.co.uk

ROTHERHAM OPPORTUNITIES COLLEGE GRANTED CHARITABLE STATUS

Rotherham Opportunities College is an education provider that supports young adults with special educational needs, and last month it was granted charitable status by the Charity Commission.

Their new status will hopefully boost fundraising capabilities, with all donations going towards enhancing vocational support for students. This should allow for more unique opportunities for the students.

Principal Dr Perdita Mouseley said: “Becoming a registered charity is something we have been working towards for some time. It’s an important milestone for the college

because it will help us explore new opportunities when it comes to accessing new streams of funding.”

As well as this achievement, the college has recently been

awarded a “Good” rating by Ofsted. The college aims to help students aged 16 to 25 prepare for independent life as an adult, running unique classes. These include

volunteering, therapies, and student-centred opportunity pathways.

The college also has strong partnerships with local businesses, which allows students to benefit from supported internships. Staff and students jointly run the popular ROC Café at Ulley Country Park, open Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The college is important in this community and is now preparing to welcome 75 students this September.

“We’ve got some exciting plans for the college, and becoming a charity is central to us realising those ambitions,” Dr Mouseley added.

For more information, visit theroc.co.uk

MEMORY WALK TO CELEBRATE LOVED ONES

Four South Yorkshire businesses have come together in support of the Autumn Memory Walk event, which brings together families who have lost a loved one in hospital. Organised by Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, Barnsley Hospital Charity and Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity, the walk will take place on Sunday 19 October 2025 at Manvers Lake.

RNN Group are proud to be the headline sponsor for this walk, having previously raised £900 for Rotherham Hospice and £1,000 for Bluebell Wood Hospice. Jason Austin, CEO, said:

“RNN Group is delighted to be the headline sponsor of this inaugural Autumn Memory Walk in October 2025. We believe in the power of community, and just as we strive to inspire innovation and develop skills through education, we are equally dedicated to supporting initiatives that uplift and benefit local people. We are proud to be a part of this

event.”

Alongside RNN Group, Veolia, Keepmoat and B. Braun will sponsor the 5km walk. The event will take place around the same time as Baby Loss Awareness Week, which will allow people who have experienced this to connect with others who understand them.

After the walk, participants will have the opportunity to write memories or notes to their loved ones. They can then display them on the special in-memory project that the art and design students at RNN Group are currently creating.

Early bird tickets are available to purchase for £12 per adult and £8 per child (under 15), including a t-shirt, medal and fundraising pack. The charities are encouraging walkers to raise sponsorship in memory of their loved ones to support other families in South Yorkshire.

Find out more and sign up at: www.therotherhamft.nhs.uk

HUNDREDS WALK FOR DEMENTIA APPEAL

Last month, 400 people donned their brightest red shoes and t-shirts to take part in the first ever Red Shoe Walk at Meadowhall. The event was a resounding success, raising over £10,000 for Sheffield Hospitals Charity dementia appeal.

Beth Crackles, CEO of Sheffield Hospitals Charity, commented: “We’re thrilled with how the first ever Red Shoe Walk brought our community together in solidarity. Thank you so much to everyone that got involved and helped make this event such a success. The funds raised will make a real difference to people living with dementia across Sheffield.”

Singer Tony Christie set the scene with a performance of his iconic (Is This the Way to) Amarillo before the walkers set off on the 3km journey across the riverbanks surrounding Meadowhall. Tony revealed his own dementia diagnosis in 2023, so the cause is something very close to his heart.

Also an ambassador for the charity, Tony said: “I’m proud to be an ambassador for Sheffield Hospitals Charity. I’m not ashamed of my dementia diagnosis and I tell other people not to be ashamed of theirs. This cause means a lot to me, and it was fantastic to see so many people come together at the Red Shoe Walk to show their support and raise money for people living with dementia.”

Many more iconic figures showed their support for the cause, with Sonic the Hedgehog sporting his famous red shoes, and Gladiator finalist Bronte Jones helping the crowd warm up ahead of the walk.

The colour red was chosen as it increases brain wave activity in people with dementia and can be seen clearly even through to the late stages of dementia.

Read more and donate here: sheffieldhospitalscharity.org.uk/ dementia

FINAL PUSH

This ‘new year’ – which really begins when the kids go back to school – is my favourite fresh start. It’s the time when many leaders look back over what they’ve achieved and, with one quarter left, catch up if needed, tweak what’s working and finish strong.

Three months might feel short, but the reality is you can get a lot done before 31 December. What can be achieved in that time, I hear you ask? Well, loads is the answer! From delivery and fundraising to impact and making a real difference for your beneficiaries, here are just a few things you could do in a quarter:

• Run a pilot project you’ve been thinking about all year

•Launch a volunteer recruitment campaign and refresh your strategy

• Create a funding plan to secure the next 12 months

• Build a fundraising calendar of community and corporate events

• Subscribe to a funding portal to explore new grant opportunities for the year ahead

Let’s not slide into the new year with nothing achieved – let’s get things done.

For more information relating to the business planning for your organisation, contact - Wendy Ward, Let’s Save Consultancy Services, 0772 9481010. wendy@letssave.biz

By Cheryl Plant See It Be It

HAPPY NEW ACADEMIC YEAR – LET’S MAKE IT COUNT

There’s something special about September. The buzz of new beginnings, fresh notebooks and hopeful faces at the school gates. It’s a time when young people start imagining what their future might look like – and that’s where you come in.

See It Be It is a Sheffield-grown campaign that invites local businesses to help young people dream bigger. Whether you’re a sole trader, a startup or a household name, your story could be the one that sparks a young person’s ambition.

You don’t need a script or a PowerPoint – just a bit of time and a willingness to share what you do, how you got there and why it matters. A chat in a classroom, a workplace visit, a mentoring moment – it all makes a difference.

Volunteering is easy, flexible and genuinely rewarding. You’ll be supported every step of the way – and you’ll walk away knowing you’ve helped someone see what’s possible.

So, as the academic year kicks off, why not open a door for someone else? Join us in helping young people in Sheffield to See It, Be It – and feel they belong. Let’s make this year one to remember – for them, and for you.

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Slice Solutions are celebrating six successful years in business – a milestone made all the more meaningful by the challenges SMEs have faced in recent times. From pandemic pressures to economic uncertainty, surviving –and now thriving – is no small feat. But for founders Lisa Betsworth and Emily Oxford, the real story lies in how Slice has done it their way.

Built on honesty, Yorkshire values and a no-nonsense approach to supporting businesses, Slice has carved out a niche of its own across three core areas: Virtual Assistance, Recruitment and HR. To mark their sixth birthday, here are six ways Slice Solutions are standing out from the crowd.

VA

1. NOT YOUR TYPICAL VA SERVICE

Virtual Assistants come in many forms – but Slice’s model doesn’t fit the usual mould. Far from being just a remote admin resource, their VA service acts as an embedded extra pair of hands for businesses. That could mean entry-level support with day-to-day admin or strategic help with operational management. There’s no “one size fits all” – it’s flexible, adaptable and tailored to what the client actually needs.

2. PROUDLY YORKSHIRE BASED

Unlike some VA services that outsource support overseas, Slice keeps things local. Based in Yorkshire, they work in the same time zone with a shared commitment to good old-fashioned straight talking. It’s this regional grounding – combined with national standards – that’s helped them form long-lasting partnerships with businesses that value clear communication and reliable support.

RECRUITMENT

3. RECRUITMENT WITH REAL COST SAVINGS

Slice’s approach to recruitment is built on a fixed-fee model that offers significant cost reductions compared to traditional agency percentages. Instead of charging a slice of a salary, they offer upfront, transparent pricing – often saving clients thousands. It’s recruitment with no surprises, no inflated fees and no hidden extras.

4. A TRUE PARTNERSHIP

More than just a placement service, Slice becomes an extension of their client’s internal team. They work on specific vacancies with a consultative approach, ensuring clients feel seen, heard and supported. From managing tough candidate markets to providing on-site support, it’s a high-touch service built on relationships – not transactions.

HR

5.

NO LONG-TERM HR RETAINERS

In today’s climate, few small businesses want to be tied into long-term contracts – especially for HR services that may not be needed every month. Slice offers a flexible, responsive model that’s reviewed every six months, making sure businesses only pay for what they really use. It’s HR support on your terms, without the financial commitment of a retainer.

6. HONEST, REAL-WORLD HR ADVICE

Slice is known for giving clients the full picture – even if that means saying “no” to the easy option. Their advice is always grounded in what’s best for the business, not in what’s convenient or billable. That could mean steering a client away from risky decisions, suggesting alternative routes or even recommending a VA instead of a recruitment package. The team is proudly BS-free – a trait that’s helped build trust and long-term loyalty.

LOOKING AHEAD

Six years in, Slice is proud of what it’s built – but it’s not standing still. Growth is firmly on the agenda, with plans already under way to expand further across the Yorkshire region and build on the strong foundations already laid.

If admin, recruitment or HR challenges are slowing your business down, Slice can help you achieve more with less stress. Find out more at www.slicesolutions.co.uk, call 01709 213013 or email info@slicesolutions.co.uk.

AIMING FOR PEAK HOSPITALITY

From pot washer to Peak District hospitality entrepreneur, Rob Hattersley has always lived and breathed the industry. Now leading five venues under the Longbow Venues banner – with a sixth on the way – he tells Ash Birch why people, not numbers, are at the heart of his business.

For Rob Hattersley, hospitality was more than a career choice, it was in his blood. “My grandparents were always in hospitality,” he recalls. “They owned landmark pubs such as The Lathkil in Over Haddon and the Monsal Head. Then my parents opened a restaurant in Bakewell called Aitch’s Wine Bar and Bistro. I started working there part time when I was 14, got the buzz and never left.”

Like many in the trade, Rob’s first jobs were behind the scenes. “I started pot washing, worked my way through to front of house, and then went to work as a chef,” he says. His career quickly broadened with stints running a chalet in the French Alps, working in more bars and restaurants, and even running beverage operations on Royal Caribbean cruise liners.

What drew him to the industry was its variety. “I love it all,” he says. “I love being in the kitchen brigade and serving great food, but I also love the interaction with customers and staff. There’s nothing more rewarding than managing a really busy shift. There’s a buzz that goes through you – and that’s why people don’t leave the industry.”

That passion took him into senior management roles for large PLCs. At first it seemed like the natural progression. “I always knew I wanted to go into management,” he says. “I never thought I’d want my own business. I thought I’d go into area or regional management. But the higher up I went, the more I realised it wasn’t the hospitality I loved.”

The breaking point came in 2018 after a conversation with an area manager about labour costs. “We’d had a fantastic summer and beaten profit budgets by tens of thousands

every month,” he explains. “But in September it rained constantly, sales dropped and we weren’t hitting our staff ratios. The response was, you need to cut more staff. I said I can’t cut more staff without affecting the product, the experience or morale. His response was, you may have to rebuild your reputation and your team, but you need to hit these numbers. That was the nail in the coffin. I realised I was just a number in a company run by accountants.”

In response, Rob sold his house, raised funds and went all in. In February 2020 he took on The Maynard in Grindleford. Weeks later the first Covid lockdown began. “I ended up on Universal Credit,” he says. “Staff were furloughed. I had lots of uncomfortable conversations with suppliers until the Covid loans came in. But we used the time to improve the building, refurbish, and support the NHS with takeaways. It really got us into the community and helped us come out stronger.”

Opportunities followed. In June 2021 he took on The George at Hathersage, benefitting from staycation demand and the temporary VAT cut. “It was the best and worst time,” he admits. “There will always be opportunities during the worst times if you look for them.”

Since then, Longbow Venues has grown rapidly. The Ashford Arms, the Peacock at Rowsley and others have joined the portfolio, with a sixth site – The Charleston in Bakewell – opening in early 2026. “We’re at five sites open, six soon, with 291 employees on the books rising to around 350 in the new year,” says Rob.

The Peacock at Rowsley was a particularly personal win. “When I told my mum we were taking on

another site, she told me I was being ridiculous and reckless,” he laughs.

“But when I said it was the Peacock at Rowsley, her tone changed completely. We’ve got loads of family memories there, it was my grandfather’s favourite place in the world. She said, well that’s okay then – you need to take that one.”

Despite the scale, he’s determined Longbow won’t lose its values.

“Our number one value is you – our customers, suppliers, staff,” he says. “Staff are the most important people in the business. If you’ve got happy staff, you’ve got happy customers. We have such a high retention rate. A lot of people have progressed through the business, and some who left have come back into senior roles. That’s the culture of Longbow.”

Even the company name carries layers of meaning. “The longbow has stood the test of time. There’s precision in the archer, teamwork, resilience,” says Rob. “But also, I’d already set the company up with plans to take on the Robin Hood in Baslow – and when that didn’t happen, the name stuck. So, it’s either a noble symbol of strength, or just because I’d printed the letterheads already. Probably a bit of both.”

Looking back on what he has built in just a few years, Rob is characteristically forward-focused.

“I don’t think about what we’ve achieved, I think about what there is to do,” he says. “I can’t switch off – I’m always thinking about the next thing, whether it’s a new site, a loyalty programme or how we reward our teams. It’s never finished. And I don’t take the credit – the teams are the ones that make it happen.”

longbowvenues.com

GIORGIO CASSELLA MANAGING DIRECTOR, EVOLUTED

BLACK FRIDAY 2025 IS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT TO EVERYTHING THAT’S COME BEFORE - ARE

YOU READY?

Love it or loathe it, Black Friday has become the Glastonbury of the sales calendar: a frenzied, noisy, overhyped event that somehow still manages to pull in record crowds every year. Some brands embrace it like a kid at a pick ‘n’ mix. Others grit their teeth, slash a few prices and hope it passes quickly.

Normally, I’m the first to say you don’t have to join in. Not every brand belongs in the Black Friday shouting match. But 2025? This year’s going to be different. Really different And if you’re reliant on digital channels for sales you need to start thinking about it now (if not two months ago!).

Why? Because the way your customers are going to shop this Black Friday will bear almost no resemblance to what you’ve seen before.

AI is your new competition (and your customers’ best friend)

In previous years, bargain hunters would check a couple of familiar retailers, scan Google Shopping and open up dozens of browser tabs to compare prices. This year? AI is doing the legwork for them.

Consumers will be chatting to AI assistants that can pull every relevant deal, compare product features, calculate delivery costs, check stock availability and even sniff out extra freebies – all in seconds.

That means if your product pages, pricing or offers aren’t optimised for AI discovery, you may as well be invisible. The days of hoping people stumble across your deals are numbered. You’ll need to be deliberate about how you feed information to AIpowered search, and think about your marketing in a way that ensures you’re part of the conversation before

customers ever see your website.

Social search will be the new storefront

TikTok, Instagram, Reddit, YouTube – for years now they’ve been a source for consumer research and information gathering. In 2025, they’re the go-to search engines for an increasing number of consumers.

Come Black Friday week, and the run up to, we’ll see an avalanche of short-form videos showcasing deals – some from creators and brand partnerships, but many more from ordinary shoppers who just love shouting about a bargain.

And your customers aren’t going to scroll aimlessly. They’ll be tapping “best gaming laptop under £1,000 UK Black Friday” directly into TikTok search and expecting

tailored, timely results. If your brand isn’t discoverable across social for your deals, you’re gifting sales to competitors.

Live shopping will push the “buy now” button

A growing trend that I absolutely love but will cause so many headaches for businesses that can’t adapt: Live shopping events. Imagine QVC but in the palm of your hand, hosted by charismatic presenters from your in-house team. They’ll be demoing products, flashing limited time offers, and giving live stock updates.

Impulse purchases will go through the roof. And those that embrace the format early will build an audience they can monetise long after Black Friday is over.

So, how should you prepare?

If your Black Friday plan is to dust off last year’s campaign, swap in a new date and send a couple of “SALE NOW ON” emails, you’ll be left behind.

2025 is the year to test new ideas: optimise your product copy, images, reviews in as much detail as possible for AI search; create short-form, productcentric content with social search in mind; and explore promotional campaigns that feel interactive, not static.

This year is your sandbox. Test now and you’ll have the data, skills, and confidence to dominate 2026, when these behaviours will be even more ingrained.

At Evoluted, we help online retailers do exactly this – think bigger, adapt faster and turn trends into growth. We’re not just here to run your ads or post a few nice graphics on social media. We’re here to be your strategic partner: whether that’s rethinking your entire Black Friday approach, integrating new tech into your marketing stack, or creating campaigns that people actually want to engage with.

The digital landscape is shifting faster than I’ve ever known it to. You can either chase after it breathlessly… or have a partner who knows the shortcuts, the trends and the tools to make it work for you.

Black Friday 2025 will reward the bold, the prepared and the adaptable. Which one will you be?

LET’S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS

IT’S TIME TO CONNECT AT THE UNLTD BUSINESS EXPO

THURSDAY 2 OCTOBER 2025 – 10AM TO 3.30PM | MAGNA, ROTHERHAM

Back by popular demand, the unLTD Business Expo returns this autumn – and it’s set to be bigger, bolder and busier than ever.

Following the success of its first two editions, the region’s newest all-day business exhibition is fast becoming a standout fixture in the South Yorkshire events calendar. Held at Magna in Rotherham, the October Expo offers a vibrant platform for companies of all sizes to connect and grow.

With more than 60,000 businesses operating across the Sheffield City Region, the potential for networking, lead generation and long-term partnerships is enormous. From Sheffield and Rotherham to Barnsley, Doncaster and beyond, the Expo attracts professionals across a wide range of sectors –from tech and finance to hospitality, education and manufacturing.

As a visitor, entry is completely free. Across the day, attendees can engage with a diverse mix of exhibitors, discover new suppliers, meet prospective clients and enjoy insightful panel debates and interviews with leading local business figures.

EXHIBIT WITH US – LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE

Exhibiting is a cost-effective way to raise your profile and get in front of a local audience. Whether you’re a new business looking to make a splash or a seasoned player aiming to expand your reach, a stand at the Expo puts your brand centre stage.

TWO STAND OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE:

Standard Stand – £350 + VAT

• • 2.5m x 2m exhibition space

• 6ft clothed table, 2 chairs

• Welcome drinks, light breakfast & lunch for 2 delegates

• 100-word company description & logo in the event programme

• Option to advertise in the programme (additional cost)

• Electricity available for £25

Large Stand – £625 + VAT

• 5m x 2m space

• Two 6ft tables, 4 chairs

• Welcome drinks, light

breakfast & lunch for 2 delegates

• Programme listing and advertising opportunity

• Electricity available for £25

• Exhibitor bookings are taken on a first come, first served basis, and stands are in high demand – so don’t delay.

Previous exhibitors include: Arcus Technology, Banner Jones, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, Crystal Clean, DN Colleges Group, Federation of Small Businesses, Global Windows, Inclusive Consulting, Sheffield College, Sound Media, TC Harrison Leasing, Travelmaster and many more.

BOOK YOUR STAND OR REGISTER FOR A FREE VISITOR PASS TODAY

SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT: EXPO. UNLTDBUSINESS. COM

Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your business, make powerful connections and be part of one of the region’s fastestgrowing events. We’ll see you there.

NEW FOR THIS EXPO!

At this October’s Expo, we’re excited to launch a brandnew feature: the Exhibitor Meeting Portal. This handy tool makes arranging meetings easier than ever. Set your availability, check when other exhibitors are free, book time in our dedicated meeting area and add appointments straight to your calendar. No more back-and-forth emails. No more missed opportunities. Just log in, send a request and get connecting – all in a coupla clicks.It’s all about helping you make the most of your Expo experience.

We'll see you all there!