Commerce & Industry 31.02 by Waltons Publications

HUMBER

CONSTRUCTION

Future success in hands of employees as regional law firm restructures

Employees of Williamsons Solicitors are now proud owners of the leading East Yorkshire firm.

The practice, with offices in Hull, Driffield and Bridlington, switched from a limited company to an employee ownership trust on February 1, with a 100 percent of shares being transferred from the two previous owners, solicitors Sarah Clubley and Jane Cousins.

The move has been made as part of succession planning and to secure a bright future for the 120-strong business which was founded in 1890. Both Sarah and Jane will continue their roles on the board of six directors responsible for strategy and day-today management, with four trustees in place to oversee the business, acting as guardians on behalf of all staff.

The business model, which has been adopted by around 30 UK law firms to date and around 1600 UK companies overall, has many reported positive aspects including enhanced staff loyalty and potential tax-free bonuses. Sarah Clubley, who joined Williamsons

Winner takes it all!!

around 25 years ago, said that employee ownership would have far reaching benefits including improved performance while protecting the integrity of the firm.

“It will build on our unique and collaborative culture, beloved by both staff and clients, while shielding us from acquisition or a management buyout which would place power in the hands of a few.

“All staff will have the opportunity to become more involved in decisions, but it will feel like business as usual,” she added.

Jane Cousins said: “Becoming a 100 percent employee-owned law firm marks an exciting milestone for Williamsons and, personally, it is a very proud moment.

“The new structure allows us to give every employee a stake in our financial success. It

THE 2025 Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards is now live and entries can be submitted. There are numerous categories which can be entered and one which is chosen from all entries by the judges to be ‘The Business of Excellence’. The competition is open to all businesses in Northern Lincolnshire, regardless of whether you are Chamber members or not.

The Gala Presentation and Dinner will be held on Thursday, 15th May, at The Baths Hall, Scunthorpe.

Kick off the evening with a sparkling wine drinks reception. After a top class Dinner from Healing Manor Hotel, enjoy an After Dinner Show based on the musical Mamma Mia, with West End professional performers and students from Grimsby Institute and North Lindsey College, before finding out who are 2025 winners will be!

Headline sponsors of the Awards in 2025 are Phillips 66.

To check out last year’s event and its winners visit www.nlincsba.co.uk where you can watch the video and the special evening enjoyed by all.

So check out the Awards and be ready to enter and book to be part of the celebrations!

For further information or to sponsor please contact a.tate@hull-humber-chamber.co.uk

will empower people, attract top talent and ensure we maintain our culture and ethos while providing continuity for staff and clients.”

Work on the transaction was carried out with the help of Nigel Beckwith of Gosschalks Solicitors, and Mike Beckett of Forrester Boyd.

Only around 0.25 per cent of UK law firms have switched to employee ownership, but its popularity as a business model is growing and is being actively encouraged by the government as a route to sustainable business, regional wealth and community benefits.

Sarah Clubley (left) with Jane Cousins

Diamond delight for Luxus as it celebrates major milestone

Recycled compound specialist Luxus is celebrating 60 years of manufacturing excellence in Lincolnshire.

The Louth business is a high-performing thermoplastics provider, playing an integral part in a sustainable supply chain for customers in sectors ranging from automotive to construction, packaging to horticulture.

Now a £36.5-million turnover operation, with dedicated processing, innovation and quality testing facilities at its headquarters on Fairfield Industrial Estate, it employs 140 people in the area, with a further 30 at a specialist subsidiary in South Wales.

Established by Ron Tonn in 1965 to provide waste solutions for the burgeoning plastics industry, it has prided itself on a pioneering approach to compound production. The US Army veteran had originally arrived in the UK in the late Fifties to launch the European arm of an American operation. Quickly joined by current managing director Peter Atterby - who has been at Luxus for 55 of the 60 years now celebrated - together they established the first dedicated compounding facility in Louth, attracted by existing industry and export potential offered by the Humber ports.

The early Eighties saw a dedicated laboratory developed to foster innovation, with a stateof-the-art technical centre added in 2014 It is one of the largest and most advanced facilities of its kind in the UK. In 2017 Luxus

expanded as a group, acquiring Colour Tone Masterbatch Ltd, a bespoke manufacturer serving the European plastics market from Caerphilly. It was awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation in 2022 for its work with hard-torecycle black plastics.

Then and now: Early production at

and the state-of-the-art operations now.

Recycled compound specialist Luxus is celebrating 60 years of manufacturing excellence in Lincolnshire.

Mr Atterby said: “Celebrating our 60th anniversary is a real opportunity for us to reflect on what has been achieved, and underlines our commitment to quality, our clients, the environment and Louth.

The Louth business is a high -performing thermoplastics provider, playing an integral part in a sustainable supply chain for customers in sectors ranging from automotive to construction, packaging to horticulture.

“Their dedication ensures our unstinting sustainability efforts, innovation and track record of delivery allows us to speak with authority and share expertise. We now set our sights on future milestones.”

Now a £ 36.5 -million turnover operation , with dedicated processing, innovation and quality testing facilities at its headquarters on Fairfield Industrial Estate, it employs 1 40 people in the area, with a further 30 at a specialist subsidiary in South Wales.

“Recycling has rightly become part of everyone’s daily life, but we were well into our journey by the time household targets were introduced in the early Noughties.

“We’re incredibly proud of the leading industry role Luxus plays and the importance our work has.”

Staff and suppliers enjoyed a Sixties themed party at The Brackenborough Lakes Resort in Louth, with a live band and magician, to celebrate.

“It was a pleasure to celebrate with our hardworking team, who make Luxus the force in the industry it is,” Mr Atterby said.

Cyclists set to support seafaring charity with biggest turnout yet for annual Bridge2Bridge ride

A biking business leader who cycled hundreds of miles and raised thousands of pounds from two charity rides is ready to take off the stabilisers and pass the project to the organisation it supports.

Adam Walsh, the CEO of John Good Group, will still captain the team for the annual Bridge2Bridge challenge but the Sailors’ Children’s Society will take on the organisation of the event, which raised £20,000 in 2024.

The charity is planning this year’s ride now and is looking to sign up 30 business people who fancy tackling the gruelling route from the Severn Bridge to the Humber Bridge and completing 212 miles in just two days.

Hull-based Ken Ellerker Cycles will again provide support for the team and the Society is seeking additional sponsorship for the ride which will leave the Severn Bridge first thing on Saturday 13 September and arrive at the Humber Bridge late afternoon on Sunday 14 September.

Adam said: “We want to make the Bridge2Bridge ride bigger, with more riders

The company produces 30,000 tonnes of recycled plastic compounds annually, having started with 600 tonnes, then going into the formation of coat hangers and films.

End uses now include car parts, with a key strand being the lightweighting to aid fuel efficiency and the electric vehicle transition. Specialist materials for waterless washing machines are also produced.

Luxus has also delivered a Department for Energy Security and Net Zero part-funded project to develop cleaner recycling processes.

The seventh decade will see it continue to lead the industry, while the UK’s largest independent recycler is also launching an exciting brand, offering safe, traceable, multi-life solutions.

helping us to hit higher fundraising targets, and the best way to do that is for the Society, as a nationwide charity, to take the lead in activating its network of supporters and to organise their involvement.

“I’ll still be there to lead the team, the John Good Group will still be backing me and together we’ll be promoting the Bridge 2 Bridge ride and the benefits it brings to the charity and the participants.”

Natasha Barley, CEO of the Society, said: “We are so grateful to Adam and to John Good Group. Adam completed the incredible feat of covering the 212 miles in a solo ride in just one day in 2023. With logistical support from his business and others, he assembled a team of eight for the two-day trip last year and now we’re aiming for 30 riders.

“That’s a game-changer in terms of organisation so the Society is putting in more effort to enable Adam to concentrate on leading the riders. Last year we had a mix of experience and ability –including a novice who had never cycled long distances – and they all finished the ride in style.”

Riders can register online and each one will be asked to raise at least £1,500 to support the work of the Society, which is 204 years old this year and works to support disadvantaged children from the Royal Navy, merchant navy, offshore wind industry, fishing fleets and inland waterways.

To find out more about Bridge2Bridge and to register visit: https://sailorschildren.org.uk/events/ gear-up-for-good-cycle-212-miles/

Luxus,

Adam Walsh, right, with three of his team mates preparing for the 2024 ride which raised £20,000 for the charity.

Lucky for some – Humber Renewables Awards return for 13th year!

The Humber Renewables Awards are set to return in 2025 as the fitting finale for Offshore Wind Connections once again.

The celebratory gala dinner will cap the annual conference and exhibition for a third successive year, with both now delivered by Humber Marine & Renewables.

They first came together in 2023 as OWC marked a decade of delivery, with hundreds of industry leaders set to gather in Hull again this spring to share best practice, explore innovation and update on project and policy developments.

Humber Renewables Awards provide the opportunity to kick-back after the keynote speakers and panellists have provided their input, with a relaxed atmosphere in which to highlight achievement.

The current Humber Renewables Champion is Camilla Carlbom Flinn, vice chair of Humber Marine & Renewables. She has been instrumental in the organisation’s development, the merger with Grimsby Renewables Partnership, and the recent significant funding win from Maritime UK.

Launching 2025’s event, Camilla said: “Humber Marine & Renewables is delighted to bring these two events forward together once again.

“Set against a backdrop of ongoing work to build capacity of offshore wind in the near North Sea, a huge contract win for Siemens Gamesa, and a continued focus on security and supply of energy - across all forms - it promises to be a fascinating couple of days.

“When it comes to the awards, I now know first-hand what an incredibly proud and humbling feeling it is to be recognised by your peers, and I’d encourage all with a stake in the sector to get on board and enter in 2025.

“Preparations for this year’s events are going well, and I look forward to seeing the renewables industry convene for a vital two days of insight and inspiration.”

Camilla is a director of Pentagon Marine Ltd, having seen her Stallingborough-based Carlbom Shipping Ltd business acquired in 2022. As well as holding a leading role with HM&R, she serves as honorary consul between the region and Sweden and Finland, while also being actively involved with the Hull and Humber and Swedish Chambers of Commerce.

The sector organisation took the awards on following a restructure by Reach Plc, the company behind regional news brands Hull Daily Mail and Grimsby Telegraph, as well as the Live online platforms, including Business Live. It founded the awards 13 years ago, as the industry’s momentum hit top gear on the Humber. Reach Plc remains involved as media partner.

Entries are now welcomed for the nine open award categories, with the winners to be unveiled at Hull’s Doubletree by Hilton Hotel on Thursday, May 1, capping two days of exhibiting and networking.

Launching the awards’ nomination call, the team behind Humber Renewables Awards have underlined the sector’s breadth, with the scope going well beyond wind. Previous winners have been drawn from major project developers, key supply chain and training partners, as well as the fields of micro-generation, battery storage, solar and hydrogen innovation, together with supporting ports, logistics and engineering operations. The dedicated websitewww.humber-renewables.com - is now live, featuring all the information, including the online entry form for the open categories. The deadline for nominations is Friday, March 14.

RWE, headline sponsor of OWC 2025, is backing the event once again, with Rix Renewables sponsoring reception drinks. Opportunities remain to get involved as the countdown begins. For more information email awards@humber-renewables.com.

To enter the awards, visit www.humber-renewables.com

Dream green team: Humber Renewables Awards 2024 winners.

Humber’s skills still vital for East Coast U.S. offshore wind

The United States remains a huge export opportunity for UK offshore wind businesses according to leading industry group Humber Marine & Renewables, despite President Trump putting the brakes on all new development.

Ahead of its flagship annual conference Offshore Wind Connections 2025, the organisation has been in talks with US offshore consultancy Spirit Advisory which believes that, regardless of the executive orders, there is an imperative for expertise from the Humber which has been successfully trading with Atlantic Coast states for nearly 10 years.

Chris Jones, Spirit Advisory’s UK director, said that while Trump’s bombshell has resulted in widespread concern, businesses involved in the Eastern Seaboard’s offshore wind sector are “rolling up their sleeves to get on with it”.

The January 20 White House memorandum, which threatens thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in investment, halts new leasing of wind farms in federal waters and pauses approvals, but doesn’t go as far as stopping those that have already been consented or are in development.

“It’s still a big market with a lot of opportunity,” said Chris. “There is a major need to harness UK experience in construction and operations & maintenance, along with subsea expertise, and close collaboration with Humber companies continues to be vitally

important in helping overcome the challenges presented by the harsh Atlantic Ocean environment.”

Humber Marine & Renewables was invited by the BBC to respond to a social media post written in the new year by Trump, in which he called on the UK to ‘get rid of windmills’ and open up the North Sea for oil and gas exploration. Directors formally invited him and the US Ambassador to the UK to Offshore Wind Connections, taking place on April 30 and May 1, to hear of the huge economic benefit they bring. Now in its 13th year, it already boasts international reach, including groups of delegates from East Coast states.

The high-profile conference, which has secured headline sponsorship from RWE, has a theme of collaboration, seen as crucial to the successful development of the sector.

Chris Jones

Dustin Varnell, a Spirit Advisory US director, said that offshore wind in US was relatively new, so creating real connections with established tier two and three businesses in more mature clusters would lead to mutual benefit. “The Humber is a real focus for us,” he said. “We are steaming ahead and don’t want companies to be put off by the political landscape.

“I believe that the executive order could create an even greater opportunity for smaller companies at grassroots level because a slower growth model will create a vacuum as a result of some of the bigger players exercising caution.”

The two-day Offshore Wind Connections conference, which takes place in Hull, comprises speakers, panel sessions, an exhibition and networking, followed by the Humber Renewables Awards as a grand finale. Supporters to date include RWE as the headline sponsor, Orsted as platinum, with gold sponsors ABP, Andrew Jackson Solicitors, MMS, Pentagon and Torque Solutions, and SES taking silver. RSM is the drinks sponsor for the RenewableUK Connect networking event.

Other supporters are East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Hull City Council, The Humber Offshore Wind Cluster, and The Supply Chain Network.

Director of Humber Marine & Renewables

Camilla Carlbom Flinn said that the Humber’s links with the US had resulted in some great success stories for the region.

“We’ve developed fantastic relationships over the last decade, with some local businesses setting up operations in states including Rhode Island, while the American visits to the Humber highlight their keenness to engage with companies eager to tap into this overseas market.

“The White House executive order is naturally very concerning, but it will not have an immediate or large impact on the Atlantic Coast in the shorter term, so the opportunities are still very much alive.”

A memorandum of understanding was signed at Offshore Wind Connections in 2019 between Humber Marine & Renewables and Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to build business and drive ambitious offshore wind development plans.

Since 2016, Humber Marine & Renewables has facilitated inward and outward trade missions which have included visits to Boston, New Bedford (twinned

with Grimsby), Providence, New York and New Jersey, and the New Bedford Offshore Wind Symposium where Humber delegates spoke to politicians, education experts and business leaders.

Spirit Advisory led an East Coast USA mission to the Humber in 2024 and works closely with Humber Marine & Renewables to encourage transatlantic business.

Offshore Wind Connections 2025 takes place at Hull’s Doubletree by Hilton. Tickets, exhibition space and some sponsorship packages are still available.

The agenda, speakers and panel sessions are currently being finalised and will be detailed ahead of the event.

30th April1st May 2025

Doubletree by Hilton, Hull

For tickets and further details, please visit: www.offshorewindconnections.com

Dustin Varnell

Camilla Carlbom Flinn

4 Big Waste Management Changes and Trends in 2025

A new year introduces fresh goals, challenges, and trends to many areas of life – and waste management is no exception. Big changes are set for waste management across the UK in 2025. Your business should be aware of them to help navigate them smoothly and stay on top of key trends.

The UK government announced important changes to business waste collections that will be enforced in 2025. Increases in landfill tax may also impact waste management costs for many businesses. And recycling targets from Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) remain in place as many businesses seek sustainable ways of working.

To help your business comply with new waste regulations and be ready for other changes we’ve compiled four key things to be aware of in the coming year. Prepare your business with these four important changes and trends set to affect waste management in 2025.

1. Simpler Recycling

The biggest change to the waste management landscape in the UK for 2025 will be the introduction of Simpler Recycling. From 31 March 2025, any business with ten or more full-time employees must have separate collections in place for:

• Food waste

• Paper and cardboard

• All other dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal, and glass)

It means from the start of April this year your business must have individual bins to segregate these waste types. Paper and card must be collected separately from other dry mixed recycling. The changes to food waste legislation require bins for any food waste to prevent it from being thrown away with general waste.

If you run a business with more than ten full-time employees then you must have the appropriate bins and waste collections in place before 31 March 2025. We advise getting these in place before the end of March deadline to ensure compliance with the new Simpler Recycling regulations. Contact us if you want to arrange extra collections or have any questions.

2. Landfill tax rises

Every year the landfill tax rate usually rises, but from 1 April 2025, the standard rate will increase by 22%. There are two rates, yet most waste that businesses send to landfill sites is charged at the standard rate, which is significantly higher. The lower rate applies to ‘inactive waste’ such as rocks and soil.

From 1 April 2025 landfill tax will be:

Standard rate – £126.15 per tonne (previously £103.70)

Lower rate – £4.05 per tonne (previously £3.30)

These apply to landfill sites in England and Northern Ireland, but the Scottish and Welsh governments have announced rates that match them currently. The tax increase directly affects landfill site operators, but it will undoubtedly be passed down to waste carriers and their customers (such as your business).

It means that the cost to get rid of any waste your business produces that’s sent to landfill sites for disposal will likely increase. This increase aims to encourage alternative disposal methods such as recycling, recovery, and energy from waste. Check what waste type and amounts your organisation sends to landfills and seek alternatives for sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

3. Growing sustainability demands There’s already a greater focus on the use of sustainable materials by many businesses but

this looks set to grow in 2025. Many will look for sustainable solutions as companies aim to reduce the amount of waste they produce and recycle, reuse, and recover as much as possible.

Holding higher standards means companies working with suppliers that create products made of sustainable and fully recyclable materials. This will be especially true when it comes to packaging, so businesses can minimise sending waste to landfill sites. It also helps companies meet their green goals and demonstrate eco credentials to attract sustainable-minded customers and clients.

The impact of Simpler Recycling and higher landfill taxes means moving away from businesses throwing away rubbish with general waste without a second thought. To operate sustainably and save money many will want biodegradable and fully recyclable packaging and products that can be disposed of sustainably and away from landfill sites and incineration.

4. The increasing impact of AI Artificial Intelligence (AI) was one of the most talked about topics last year and it doesn’t look like slowing down in 2025. AI-integration is already in place at many waste plants around the UK and this could increase in the coming year. Its main application is to help sort waste materials to improve recovery rates.

AI and automated technology are also used to monitor equipment and machinery in waste facilities. This helps identify potential maintenance issues so they can be checked and fixed to minimise any unplanned shutdowns. Pre-empting failures helps save time and money that breakdowns may cause in waste management facilities.

Expect AI technology to be implemented in more ways across the waste management market in 2025.

https://www.businesswaste.co.uk/ news/2025-waste-management-changes/

Article courtesy of Graham Matthews Head of content at Business Waste.

BUSINESS WASTE MADE EASY

THE COMMERCIAL WASTE SERVICE RUN BY A COUNCIL FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS

The

THE COMMERCIAL WASTE SERVICE RUN BY A COUNCIL FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS

One of England’s top councils for recycling - sending no waste to landfill

The team operates a weekly collection service for nearly 4,000 business customers across the East Riding of Yorkshire, including shops, offices, restaurants, schools, leisure centres and caravan parks. East Riding of Yorkshire Council is one of the country’s top performers when it comes to recycling waste, having achieved the highest recycling rate in England for domestic waste for three years running in recent years.

Bulky,

Event

Our commercial waste service builds upon these achievements offering a top-quality service with a high standard of recycling.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is one of the country’s top performers when it comes to recycling waste, having achieved the highest recycling rate in England for domestic waste for three years running in recent years. Our commercial waste service builds upon these achievements offering a top-quality service with a high standard of recycling.

For

The team prides itself on offering a professional service, with knowledgeable and approachable staff, flexible, transparent pricing, and no hidden costs. Six dedicated trade teams collect general waste weekly, and using the might of the council’s fleet of domestic vehicles collect recycling waste fortnightly and food waste fortnightly - weekly in some areas.

With new legislation surrounding commercial recycling rapidly arriving, we are here to help with knowledgeable advice and potentially cost-effective solutions. By 31 March 2025, businesses with more than 10 full time equivalent employees must have separate collections of both recycling waste and food waste. By 31 March 2027 this will extend to ALL businesses.

Competitive

Individual

We can work with you on creating a realistic solution to ensure you are working within the new legislation guidelines. We are here to ensure the service you have is the service you need, nothing more.

The team have previously been awarded waste collection contracts for big local events including Driffield Show, the largest event held in the East Riding of Yorkshire. For more information, to find out more about the flexible service, easy payments plans, and how we can help with the new legislation changes please visit the website at: eastridingbusinesswaste.com

A large fleet of vehicles across the East Riding of Yorkshire

Flexible payment methods

Sarah Oliver, the council’s commercial waste manager said: “ We are on hand to give impartial advice and support to any client, and we like to think our services can be tailored to any business’s needsbeing environmentally friendly is key to all our services”

Or contact the team on:

Impartial advice given to all businesses.

Or contact the team on:

Or contact the team on: business.waste@eastriding.gov.uk (01482) 395580

business.waste@eastriding.gov.uk (01482) 395580

As well as collecting general waste, recycling waste, clinical and food waste the team also offers an event waste collection service.

New apprenticeship rules will help logistics businesses drive growth, says Logistics UK

The changes to apprenticeships announced today (11 February 2024) by the government will encourage more people to take up vocational training across the logistics sector, according to Logistics UK’s Head of Skills Policy Bethany Windsor.

Speaking in response to changes to the apprenticeship system announced by the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson today, Ms Windsor was encouraged to see the priority given by the government to enable new recruits to earn while they learn and in recognising that continuous upskilling is essential for both individual growth and the nation’s long-term economic resilience:

“For too long, logistics businesses have been hampered in taking on apprentices by overly long practical periods or the insistence on the achievement of English or Maths qualifications, which were not always relevant to the vacancies available or may have been superseded by other qualifications,” she said.

“Apprenticeships provide a wonderful opportunity for new recruits to enter the sector and today’s changes to the system will make it easier and more appealing for them to do so, which will help logistics businesses do their part in driving growth across the economy.”

In addition to relaxing the Functional Skills requirement for English and Maths qualifications for learners aged 19 and over, the minimum length of an apprenticeship will be reduced from 12 to eight months, which will make them a more appealing opportunity for introduction into the logistics sector and increase completion levels.

“Apprenticeships are a vital route into our sector for many people,” continues Ms Windsor, “and we have been pressing government for some time to remove as many barriers to entry and completion as possible. Logistics has so many opportunities for new recruits and those looking to up- or re-skill, but it is vital that we provide as seamless a process as possible. Today’s announcement will open the world of logistics qualifications to even more people, which is great news as we work to drive economic growth in the coming months.”

Article courtesy of Logistics UK

Collett & Sons Delivers 216 Vestas Wind Turbine Components to Limekiln Wind Farm

Collett & Sons Ltd, leading transport logistics company has successfully delivered 216 wind turbine components to Limekiln Wind Farm, a project featuring twenty four Vestas V136 turbines. Located on the Limekiln Estate, just south of Reay Caithness in the Scottish Highlands, the wind farm is currently under construction by Boralex. Over a five-month period, Collett’s dedicated team planned and coordinated deliveries, showcasing their expertise in managing large-scale heavy transport projects.

The deliveries commenced in May 2024, with components arriving into Scrabster Port. Port operations such as vessel berthing, component handling, crane offloading and vessel discharge were also organised by Collett.

Following the arrival of the first phase of blades and tower sections to the port, the Collett team transported them directly to a secure on-site storage area on the wind farm. The delivery of the remaining components was strategically aligned with the wind farm’s construction schedule.

Key components included 67m long blades transported on Nooteboom Super Wing Carrier trailers and 74Te base tower sections transported utilising Collett’s new 3x7 Nooteboom clamps. Additional components, such as mid tower, top tower, nacelle, drive train, and hub, were transported via 6-axle stepframe trailer.

Ahead of deliveries, Collett’s Consulting Department conducted a detailed route assessment, including swept path analysis reports. The evaluations identified the need of street furniture removal, tree trimming and most notably, widening of a sharp bend on a turning area near the port exit road. This modification was particularly crucial for transporting the blades due to their length. To ensure route feasibility, Collett carried out a test run, simulating the loaded blade trailer length using an extendable trailer with a 15m rear projection.

All components followed the same 45-minute route to the wind farm site entrance before navigating the large wind farm site to their respective pad. Police escorts were arranged for blades and tower sections up to the site entrance, with Collett’s escort fleet continuing the journey across the site.

Collett team coordinated closely with Highland Council and BEAR Scotland who are responsible for A9 roads in the region,

to arrange permits and address route adjustments. The project was also tracked regularly through communication with Vestas and wind farm stakeholders, supported by daily meetings and calls.

The final delivery in October 2024 marked the successful completion of component deliveries. This was made possible by Collett’s skilled team of 9 including; 3 drivers, 3 steersmen, a project manager, a site supervisor and a tow truck operator.

Once operational, the Limekiln Wind Farm will have an installed capacity of 108 MW, capable of generating enough green electricity to meet the annual demand of approximately 40,200 households. This renewable energy generation is expected to offset at least 65,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year, which would otherwise be produced by gas or coalfired power stations.

www.collett.co.uk

Supporting Business Succession through Employee Ownership Trusts

Forrester Boyd understands that succession planning is a critical milestone for business owners. Ensuring continuity, preserving company culture, and securing financial stability are all essential considerations. One increasingly popular route to achieving these goals is transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

Recently, Forrester Boyd had the privilege of advising East Yorkshire’s Williamsons Solicitors on their transition to employee ownership. By shifting from a limited company structure to an EOT, they have ensured a stable and prosperous future for their 120-strong firm while maintaining the values that have defined them since 1890.

Employee Ownership Trusts are gaining traction across the UK as an effective succession solution, with over 1,600 companies making the transition, including approximately 30 law firms. The model offers numerous advantages, such as enhanced employee engagement and retention, as employees feel a greater sense of belonging and responsibility, fostering loyalty and motivation. It also ensures business continuity and stability by keeping the company independent and protecting it from external takeovers or management buyouts that may shift strategic priorities. Additionally, EOTs offer potential tax efficiencies, including the possibility of tax-free bonuses for employees, and preserve company culture by ensuring that the business continues operating with the same ethos and values established by its founders.

For Williamsons Solicitors, the move to an EOT was a carefully planned succession strategy. Solicitors Sarah Clubley and Jane Cousins, the previous owners, transferred 100% of their shares into the trust, ensuring that all employees now have a stake in the firm’s success.

Forrester Boyd’s dedicated team worked alongside legal advisors to facilitate the transition, ensuring compliance, financial structuring, and operational alignment with the firm’s long-term objectives. This involved conducting a thorough assessment of the firm’s financial readiness for an EOT, structuring the transaction to align with the firm’s strategic goals, and providing expert guidance on governance, tax implications, and employee engagement.

Following the transition, Sarah and Jane continue in their leadership roles, ensuring stability in day-to-day operations. The board of directors remains responsible for strategic decisions, while a newly established panel of trustees safeguards the firm’s direction, acting as guardians for all employees. This structure strikes a balance between employee empowerment and structured decision-making, allowing Williamsons Solicitors to maintain its commitment to excellence in legal services. Importantly, for both staff and clients, the shift to employee ownership means ‘business as usual’—but with the added benefit of shared financial success.

For business owners considering succession planning, EOTs present a compelling option. They provide a structured, tax-

efficient way to transition ownership while maintaining company culture and securing long-term sustainability. Forrester Boyd has extensive experience guiding businesses through this process, ensuring a seamless and strategic transition.

Business owners exploring succession options and looking to understand whether an Employee Ownership Trust could work for their business can benefit from Forrester Boyd’s expertise. The team is available to provide support, ensuring the future of businesses remains secure for generations to come.

For more information about Forrester Boyd and the services it offers, please visit https://www.forrester-boyd.co.uk/.

GET AHEAD WITH YOUR YEAR - END TAX - PLANNING

2025 is now well under way, and whilst many may be working on their annual strategies and budgets, one thing that should not be put to the back of your mind is your tax year-end planning.

The early months of the year are the time to undertake year-end tax planning. After last October’s blockbuster, there is no Spring Budget, although Rachel Reeves will deliver a Spring Forecast in late March. In the wake of that Autumn Budget, there is plenty to consider:

Pension contributions: The Budget announcement that pensions will fall within the scope of inheritance tax (IHT) from 2027/28 makes the review of pension contributions slightly different from previous years. For most people, pensions remain a highly tax-efficient way of saving for retirement, but for the wealthy few unconcerned about retirement income, they are no longer the estate-planning tool of choice.

Capital gains tax (CGT): Capital gains tax rates increased in the Budget to 24% for higher and additional rate taxpayers and 18% for other taxpayers. If you have not used your annual exemption – now just £3,000 of gains – you should consider doing so after what has been a generally good year on the world’s stock markets.

IHT: Now is the time to use your annual exempt amount (£3,000 per tax year) for 2024/25 if you have not already done so. If you did not use your full exemption from 2023/24, you can also gift the unused element after you have exhausted this year’s exemption.

Marriage allowances: If you or your spouse/civil partner had income below the personal allowance in 2020/21 (£12,500), you have until 5 April 2025 to claim the marriage allowance for that year (£1,250), which could produce a tax saving of up to £250. A claim can only be made if the other partner was a basic rate taxpayer (starter, basic or intermediate rate in Scotland) in that tax year. The same principle applies (with an allowance of £1,260) for 2021/22 and subsequent years onwards.

Threshold planning: The long-term freezes that have applied to income tax allowances and many thresholds may mean you move into a higher tax band in the coming tax year. Equally

you could find yourself crossing the unchanged £60,000 threshold for the high-income child benefit charge or the £100,000 threshold for personal allowance taper and loss of tax-free childcare. Among the strategies to beat the unmoving thresholds, you could bring forward income into 2024/25 (e.g., by closing an interest-paying account) or move some incomegenerating investments across to your (lower income) spouse or civil partner by 5 April.

It is best to seek advice before taking any action as with tax, errors can be costly and difficult to unwind. At Forrester Boyd our tax specialists are always here to help so please do contact us.

Visit Forrester Boyd’s website www.forrester-boyd.co.uk for further details or reach out at info@forrester-boyd.co.uk to arrange a no-obligation conversation.

Industry and education leaders join Lincolnshire Institute of Technology board

They represent employers and education providers across the county

The Lincolnshire Institute of Technology (LIoT) has welcomed five new board members, strengthening its now 12-strong board of directors.

The new recruits represent employers and education providers across the county, which all work with the LIoT to deliver technical skills training and higher level education.

Danny Metters, Stuart Hamer, Rachel Nicholls, Claire Flavell and Angela Borman will now take on a number of responsibilities within the Institute of Technology, including overseeing and advising on its strategy for growth.

Danny Metters joins the board to represent Riseholme College, a part of Bishop Burton College, where he is Principal and CEO. Riseholme College has supported the LIoT since its inception and Danny replaces Bill Meredith, who previously represented the college on the board. Danny will work with the LIoT to transform the educational landscape for higher level technical skills within the agricultural sector.

Stuart Hamer joins the board to represent Lincoln UTC, where he is Principal. Lincoln UTC has also supported the LIoT since its inception and Stuart replaces John Morrison, who previously represented the college on the board. Stuart will work with the LIoT to support young people entering the labour market, helping them gain positions in education or employment.

Rachel Nicholls joins the board to represent new education partner Stamford College, part of the Inspire Education Group, where she is Principal and CEO. Rachel plays a vital role in the provision of highquality, employer-focused training across Lincolnshire and will work with the LIoT to help to bridge the gap between education and industry, preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s jobs.

Claire Flavell joins the board to represent new employment partner, United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Health is a new sector for the LIoT and Claire brings a wealth of experience to the board, representing the Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group, and providing an insight into the future needs of a key employment sector.

Angela Borman joins the board to represent Siemens Energy, which works closely with the LIoT to shape the engineering curriculum. Angela has substantial experience of working in the engineering sector and has been instrumental in supporting the Lincolnshirewide Apprentice Ambassadors Network.

Mick Lochran, Director of the Lincolnshire Institute of Technology, said:

“It’s a pleasure to welcome everyone to the board of directors, helping to widen our connections across Greater Lincolnshire and improve the provision of STEM education.

“At our core, we thrive on collaboration and our education and employment partners are the key to our dynamic success. By working together, we not only develop essential skills in the region, but we also inspire and motivate the workforce of the future.

“I look forward to working with each person as we continue on our mission to tackle the STEM labour shortage and shape the future of education in Lincolnshire.”

The LIoT has nine education partners across the county - the University of Lincoln, University Campus North Lincolnshire, University Centre Grimsby, Boston College, Grantham College & University Centre, Lincoln College, Riseholme College, Lincoln UTC and Stamford College.

It also works with three core regional employers - Bakkavor, Quickline Communications and United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

It is part of a national network of 21 IoTs, made up of experienced education providers and leading employers located all across England. Backed by £290 million of government investment, each IoT focuses on specialisms to suit their location, with the aim to fill immediate skills gaps while building a pipeline of talent for the future.

The shortage of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills in the UK is an ongoing problem and there is a growing need to develop a greater number of people with STEM skills.

According to STEM Learning, the shortage of STEM skills has been estimated to cost the UK economy £1.5 billion per year and The Institution of Engineering and Technology has estimated a shortfall of over 173,000 workers in the STEM sector - an average of 10 unfilled roles per business in the UK.

And this isn’t just a national issue. A lack of workers with in-demand skills in the STEM sector is also seen on a local level, and Lincolnshire is no exception to this.

Balancing labour supply and demand

Despite agri-food, manufacturing, energy, healthcare, logistics, defence and security being identified as key growth sectors in Lincolnshire, labour demand is at an all-time high with 37% of vacancies being hard to fill, according to the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership Local Skills Report.

Tackling the STEM skills shortage by upskilling workforces

Mick Lochran, Director, Lincolnshire Institute of Technology

The report also showed that employability, digital and transferable skills are needed in the region due to a lack of residents with qualifications at level 4 and above - Greater Lincolnshire has 31.5% of individuals with a level 4 qualification or above, which is lower than the national average of 43.2%.

Lincolnshire can only maximise growth if the right skills are available to employers and the current skills shortfall threatens the possible transformative development of the region.

Supporting local businesses to upskill

At the Lincolnshire Institute of Technology, our mission is to make sure Lincolnshire’s current and future workforce have the right skills, and we work with local education providers and employers to do this.

We work directly with three key employers - Bakkavor, Quickline Communications and United Lincolnshire Hospital NHS Trust - but many others use our education partners to upskill and develop their employees.

When working with us, employers benefit by having access to new minds, new skills and new technologies. They’re able to upskill their current employees with high quality apprenticeships, higher level qualifications and bespoke training, ensuring staff have exactly the skills needed for the business to succeed.

Qualifications that employees can study for include Higher National Certificates and Diplomas (HNCs and HNDs), Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) and Foundation degrees. They can also access industry qualifications, units of qualifications and non-accredited courses.

We’re a unique regional partnership, offering a one-stop shop for employers to access education and training in STEM. With a strong track record of working with organisations of all sizes, we can help businesses find the skills they need to succeed.

To find out more about the Lincolnshire Institute of Technology, visit www.liot.ac.uk.

Allenby Commercial embarks on construction of final phase at Priory Park

Work is under way and the first tenant secured for an industrial site in Hull which is the final piece of a development jigsaw dating back more than 30 years.

Allenby Commercial is offering design and build opportunities from 5,000 to 50,000 sq ft at The Point, which sits next to the Fruit Market at Priory Park and has been owned by the family business since 2016.

A 14,000 sq ft unit is due for completion in the coming months, with Allenbys close to announcing the occupier for half of the building. Development director Charlie Allenby said the new tenant has been attracted by the location and by the stylish and energy efficient design.

Charlie said: “We’ve gone for a modern, European design with Scandinavian style landscaping and solar panels on the roof contributing to an EPC A rating – quite a contrast from the old days when Priory Park was full of railway sidings!

“The new tenant is relocating from elsewhere in East Yorkshire and has been looking for premises to match its own profile as a young, creative business. We’re confident their arrival will generate interest from other businesses in the remaining 7,000 sq ft and in the wider 6.5-acre site.”

Priory Park opened for business in the early 1990s and was one of Henry Boot Developments’ first strategic joint venture projects as they worked with Network Rail on the transformation of 150 acres of brownfield land.

In 2013 HBD launched the final phase east of The Village Hotel. Allenby Commercial bought the land for The Point in 2016, the same year that the company relocated its own headquarters from the western end of Priory Park into Hull city centre.

Pictured at The Point at Priory Park in Hull are (from left) Allenby Commercial managing director Andrew Allenby, Jordan Stokes, surveyor at PPH Commercial, and Charlie Allenby, development director at Allenby Commercial.

Jordan Stokes, surveyor at PPH Commercial Chartered Surveyors and Commercial Property Consultants, said: “This is the last available development space at Priory Park. The appeal of the location is underlined by the presence of a diverse mix of local, regional and national businesses, with growing interest in recent years from the renewables sector.

“The Point is suitable for all sectors and Allenbys are setting new standards in design and build. Priory Park itself sits right next to the A63 with excellent transport links to the Humber Bridge, east coast ports and the national motorway and rail networks.”

Allenby Commercial is also progressing with the transformation of the former Europa House in Hull, which has been renamed Monocle and will welcome the first occupiers into 60,000 sq ft of space this year. The company has also expanded at Base, a former military motor depot in Chamberlain Road, Hull, which is now home to 75 businesses employing more than 200 people in light industrial, workshops, storage and offices.

Charlie said: “Base is proving ideal for local and national businesses who benefit from having a workforce and customer base almost on their doorstep – our latest addition of a Tesco Express store reflects the fact that the site is surrounded by chimney pots.

“We have one block which still has some space for industrial use and there is one unit in the main office block capable of accommodating up to 12 people but demand is strong. A new block which we only opened less than a year ago is now fully let with ten businesses occupying the 16 units.”

Construction team at work on the mesh for the foundations at the new site.

YOUNG ENGINEERS IN DEMAND AS EMPLOYERS

IDENTIFY

BENEFITS OF COSTS AND COMMITMENT

Employers across the Yorkshire and Humber region are showing signs of putting their faith in young engineers as they seek the skills to build a brighter future.

Humberside Engineering Training Association (HETA) revealed that the number of its apprentices securing placements in industry increased from 12 at the end of 2024 to nearly 30 by the end of January.

The organisation, which supports a total of 250 young learners across sites in Hull, Scunthorpe and Stallingborough, hopes the trend will continue into as more employers recognise the contribution that apprentices can make.

Iain Elliott, CEO of HETA, said: “We have a number of very able young people from the cohort that joined us in September still looking for the companies that will give them their start in the world of work, but we’re encouraged by what we have seen so far during 2025.

“Placements have been harder to come by this year and we’re sure that’s down to the economic uncertainty and the concerns about the increase in National Insurance rates. But the message is sinking in that the increase doesn’t apply to apprentices under 25, and there are other advantages on top of that.”

The young learners joined HETA in September and were all pre-vetted, arriving with good GCSE grades and having demonstrated excellence in aptitude tests including spatial awareness, reasoning, mechanical principles, English and maths.

They have worked on skills including mechanical maintenance, electrical wiring, electrical maintenance, health and safety, engineering maths and engineering science. They now want to follow previous cohorts into careers with the likes of Smith + Nephew, Wren Kitchens, Hilton Seafoods and smaller businesses.

Mr Elliott said: “We have some dedicated electrical installation apprentices looking more at domestic and commercial property roles and the rest are maintenance engineers who can go into any factory or power station and help to keep it going.

“These learners just need a chance and employers are still saying they need to recruit more engineers for the future. We want to get as many of them as possible working with employers during work experience week and we’ll have them ready to start on-site in July, working full-time for two years with no requirement for day release.”

HETA is the largest independent training provider in the UK for maintenance apprenticeships and is performing at 20 per cent above the national average in terms of achievement rates. The company achieved a 100 per cent success rate in the final assessments of the latest learners to go out and is rated as “excellent” by employers for soft skills development including work readiness, communication, team building and team leadership.

Mr Elliott said: “We know industry is crying out for new talent and by competing for the same people who are already in the industry they are fuelling wage inflation.

“By taking apprentices, employers are getting the chance to grow their own people who in turn are more likely to stay with the business. There are also opportunities at the moment to access money which has been funnelled back from unused apprenticeship levy.”

The current cohort of apprentices includes young people from a variety of backgrounds. Jake Myers and George Darnell, both 17, were attracted by the practical aspects of the work.

Jake said: “I have always been a hands-on person and that’s why I came into engineering. I have done some work experience with an electrical business and I’ve learned a lot from that. If someone asks me to do something I know I can.”

George said: “Becoming an engineer means to me shaping the future, solving real-world problems, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s a journey of innovation, creativity, and endless possibilities.”

Adam Macijauskas, aged 16, and 17 year olds Charlie Sholtysek and Macie Kassim, drew inspiration from family links to engineering.

Adam said: “I didn’t know what I wanted to do until I left school. There were so many things and I just couldn’t choose but I definitely didn’t want to be sitting in a classroom and doing homework.

“My dad is a plumbing and gas engineer and he asked if I wanted to go on projects with him on a Saturday. My first choice was to go down the plumbing route, and with the qualifications I already have I’m in a position to go further.”

Charlie said: “My grandad was into mechanical engineering and I used to help him in his garage. When I heard about HETA I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I’m enjoying it and I’ve learned a lot. There’s more of a spark than with other jobs and it’s good to get your hands dirty.”

Macie followed various members of her family into engineering and has connected with the eight per cent of female apprentices in this year’s cohort at HETA and with others who have already progressed into industry.

She said: “We also have two female instructors and I’m really enjoying it. Everything revolves around engineering now and there are so many ways you can get into it. I’ve met a lot of people like me who want to do the same thing.”

Employers who would like to know more about opportunities to bring in apprentice engineers are asked to email training@heta.co.uk

New Business Hive building will create a real buzz in Grimsby Town Centre

The windows are in, the ground floor is let and there are already five organisations waiting to be the first tenants at Grimsby Town Centre’s showpiece new business hub.

North East Lincolnshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, joined E-Factor Managing Director Mark Webb on a visit to the new Business Hive at St James’ House – and with approx. six weeks until a phase one opening, he was delighted with the transformation so far.

Mark said: “This building is coming together and will be, I believe, an iconic building in Grimsby and a good reason why people will want to come to the town centre and take advantage of all the retail and leisure outlets that are going to be here.”

The transformed St James’ House, in St James’ Square, will form a key part of the rebirth of Grimsby’s town centre alongside the Freshney Place Leisure, Foodhall & Market scheme, the new OnSide Horizon Youth Zone, the plans for 130 homes on Alexandra Dock and the opening of a Community Diagnostic Centre in Freshney Place.

Cllr Jackson said: “This is fantastic, and Mark and his colleagues are doing a great job here. This is going to be an asset to the town centre and is part of our overall regeneration plans. The Freshney Place Leisure, Foodhall and Market Scheme is only yards away from here meaning this whole area will be transformed in the next couple of years. I am really excited about this, and the additional footfall that is going to be attracted here.

“If we want to attract new business and industry into the area one of the things people want to see is a thriving town centre, which will create confidence - not

just here, but in the surrounding area,” added Cllr Jackson.

North East Lincolnshire Council supported E-Factor’s application for a £1.5m Towns Fund grant towards the complete renovation of the empty building. This has enabled the purchase of the building by E-Factor and for the work to go-ahead.

Phase one, due for a spring opening, includes a glass fronted ground floor café, and separate business space that is being let to the NSPCC for its crucial work with families across North East Lincolnshire.

Then there’s the building’s second floor, which comprises of offices for 18 small businesses – five have already been let.

The reception, also included in phase one, has space for E-Factor employees and a break-out area with floor to ceiling glass leading to the outside.

Phase two will then include a first-floor hub and events space for meetings, activities and the E-Factor’s regular business hive gatherings. Boasting more than 300 members, the E-Factor expects this to be extremely busy.

And finally, there’s the top floor ‘penthouse’ office – a space ideal for a small to medium-sized professional services company. Next to this ‘penthouse’ office there’s an adjoining outdoor space and the vision is to create a rooftop events terrace.

Pictured is North East Lincolnshire Council Leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, admiring the great view from the new St James’ House ‘penthouse’ office in St James’ Square.

Work has started on site on the Freshney Place development scheme

Work has started on site on one of the biggest single investments in Grimsby town centre’s history, the Freshney Place leisure scheme and associated new food hall and complementary market.

“We promised to get the main work started early in 2025, and that’s what’s happening,” said Cllr Jackson, leader of the Council. “We’re on a hugely ambitious journey, with significant investment of public funds across our towns and borough. We’re investing in one of the largest schemes this council has ever invested in. We believe this is right for the town.

“Partners such as Onside, who are building a Youth Zone on the Haven, and Keepmoat, who will be building a new housing development on Garth Lane, are also investing in the future of our town centre,” continued Cllr Jackson. “Our Freshney Place regeneration scheme is, in my firm belief, the most important regeneration project we have seen in North East Lincolnshire. It is key to the future of our town centre –underpinning the other regeneration taking place as well as securing the future of Freshney Place and the 1,700 local jobs it supports”

Following initial works within Top Town Market last week as soon as it closed, the focus now is to complete an internal strip out of the building, including mechanical and electrical fittings as well as asbestos removal.

This will be followed with the demolition of the market building in the summer. The external demolition of the former BHS building will start in early March. The hoardings are up to make sure that there’s a safe working environment for all those on site.

Hoardings will be put up in Victoria Street, from Devonshire House to the former House of Fraser building, signalling the start of the main works. Flottergate Mall entrance to

Freshney Place has also been closed off. The main entrances to Freshney Place at Riverhead Square and Brewery Street remain open as normal. However, please note that the market roof car park will be closed starting from Monday, 17 February.

National construction company, GMI Construction Group, will lead the build of the leisure scheme, having worked on similar projects in other towns and cities across the UK.

Ed Weston, GMI’s Commercial Director, said: “We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will breathe new life into the town centre. Our expertise in delivering both urban regeneration projects and high-quality mixed-use developments will ensure that Freshney Place becomes a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

Amanda Austin, Centre Director, Freshney Place, said: “This is a major milestone for Freshney Place and the wider Grimsby town centre. The start of construction marks the beginning of an exciting transformation as we develop a fantastic new offering.

“Freshney Place has served the community for nearly 50 years, and as work gets underway we can be confident it will remain a popular destination for the people of Grimsby into the future.

“We look forward to sharing progress as the works continue, and want to reassure our customers that it will be business as usual throughout the development phase.”

Paul Sargent, founder of Queensberry, said: “This is a landmark moment for

the development. As the Council’s development and asset manager for Freshney Place I can’t stress enough how important it is to get on site and start building. This is a massive confidence booster for Grimsby and generates a significant positive impact on the existing tenants of the shopping centre and new ones we are engaged with. There will be more good news to follow shortly”.

As previously reported, within the scheme, a pre-let agreement is in place with local operator, Parkway Cinema, to bring a new five screen cinema to complement its offering at Cleethorpes.

Richard Parkes, Director Parkway Cinemas, said: “We’ve been working towards this for a long time, and it’s brilliant to see it happening in the real world, not just on paper. It really is a transformative moment for the town centre, and the wider area too. There are very young kids now who are going to grow up enjoying the best town centre for miles around, and the cinema will be just a small part of that. Anybody can stay at home and watch a film on TV, cook their own chicken or make their own coffee but it’s a totally different experience to go out and do it with friends and family for real, and our new reinvented town centre is going to be worth waiting for, and worth going out for too!”

Andy Cooper, Manager, Parkway Cinemas, said: “Parkway have been running the cinema in Cleethorpes for more than 20 years, and this new site in Grimsby has been in the plans for a long time. It’s going to be a different style of town-centre cinema, but still under-pinned by the family-friendly approach we’ve always had. We can’t wait to get started.”

UK chemical supply chain survey unveils slowing trends

The Chemical Business Association (CBA), the voice of the chemical supply chain, has released results from its latest quarterly supply chain survey*. The survey, which is distributed to the Association’s extensive membership, contains responses from manufacturers and distributors, as well as transport and logistics companies from across the UK’s chemical supply chain.

The 2024 fourth-quarter results indicate that while the UK chemical supply chain remains resilient, growth may be plateauing, as 55% of respondents said order books remain unchanged, while only 18% specified they are improving.

This trend continues when looking at current and projected sales. Only 20% of respondents reported improved sales over the previous three months and, while this has not changed since Q3 2024, it is a 15% downturn from the same period in 2023.

With regards to future sales, only 19% are predicting an improvement for the first three months of 2025, down from 34% in Q4 2023. This, combined with 56% of respondents anticipating no changes to future sales, could be further evidence of plateauing and possibly even slowing growth.

Current sales margins further reflect this trend, with 10% fewer respondents reporting improvements compared to the same period in 2023, while 69% indicate no change. Future margin expectations also show signs of decline, with 32% of respondents expecting them to worsen in the next three months – up from 19% in Q4 2023.

The CBA’s recent trends survey also revealed slowing growth regarding employment amongst member companies. Only 4% are expecting employment levels to increase over the coming months, down from 18% in the previous quarter, and 13% in the same

period in 2023. This does not however, necessarily indicate a shrinking workforce, as the majority of those who responded (84%) are expecting employment levels to remain the same.

When considering issues relating to logistics, also imports and exports, the survey shows some signs of improvement. Fewer are experiencing problems caused by the Red Sea and Suez Canal, with latest figures showing 48% of respondents are still encountering disruption, a significant reduction when compared with Q4 2023, when it was 70%.

Fewer disruptions regarding road haulage capacity are also being reported – only 3% have reported this as an ongoing issue during Q4 2024, compared with 22% in the final quarter of 2023.

Issues persist however, with members reporting disruptions caused by escalating road haulage costs, continued regulatory issues linked to Brexit, in particular (UK REACH), and wider reaching global factors.

Tim Doggett, Chemical Business Association’s CEO said: “The chemical supply chain is a critical pillar of our society and the UK economy. It is with this in mind that I must take the opportunity to thank all our members and their employees for the amazing work they do, to ensure the chemical supply chain runs smoothly. Their efforts deserve to be celebrated.”

He continued: “This is despite events in recent years that have highlighted vulnerabilities, also dependencies, across vital supply chains, that require urgent action to be taken, to ensure the UK remains competitive.”

“Businesses do, however, face a variety of challenges. UK REACH, for example, remains unresolved since December 2021, when DEFRA announced plans to explore a new model. Meaningful progress is still absent, resulting in inertia and uncertainty that continues to stifle trade and investment. The situation is compounded, for many, by the recent Budget.”

“The CBA remains eager and ready to work with Government to address these challenges and we are committed to collaborating on practical solutions that drive growth, investment and resilience for the benefit of not only our members, but the chemical supply chain and the UK as a whole.”

“Businesses need to see action is being taken. They need effective, targeted policy intervention, otherwise the UK risks not only stagnating, but falling behind on the global stage. Moreover, as geopolitical dynamics change and evolve at an unprecedented pace, a more agile approach to counter them needs to be expedited.”

Ideal Heating strikes gold in national manufacturing awards

Ideal Heating’s commitment to employee wellbeing has been recognised in prestigious national awards.

The Hull-based UK heating industry market leader was honoured with the Manufacturing Matters prize at the Make UK Manufacturing Awards 2025. This award is focused on businesses which have had a positive societal impact as a result of their practices and/or products.

The national accolade comes after Ideal scooped the regional Manufacturing Matters Award in the Make UK North East, Yorkshire and Humberside Manufacturing Awards last October.

Organised by Make UK, which represents more than 20,000 businesses, the awards celebrate manufacturing excellence and showcase talent across the UK.

The national awards ceremony took place on the Dixie Queen paddle steamer in London, with winners receiving their awards while floating down the River Thames against the ever-changing backdrop of the capital’s iconic landmarks.

Judges noted that Ideal’s investment in staff wellbeing was “one of the most impressive examples they had come across”.

Ideal was recognised for its extensive efforts to support the wellbeing of its staff including the significant upgrading of its manufacturing facility on the Hull site and the provision of physiotherapy and other facilities to aid staff welfare.

The business employs around 1,000 people, with the vast majority based at its headquarters site on National Avenue in Hull. Continually striving to offer more ways of supporting both the physical and mental wellbeing of employees, Ideal provides access to a range of services, including health checks for all site-based team members, a counselling service and much more.

As part of its commitment, Ideal also delivered a £1.9m “Physical Spaces” investment programme to enhance team facilities at its headquarters site. The project saw kitchen, food preparation areas and office spaces enhanced, as well as the introduction of a new outdoor eating area and multi-faith prayer room.

The company’s commitments to supporting staff wellbeing are enshrined in its Wellbeing Charter, with other initiatives including the introduction of Mental Health First Aiders and monthly financial wellbeing updates.

Ideal Heating HR Manager Miriam Moore said: “We’re honoured to have been recognised in the Make UK Manufacturing Awards, both in the Yorkshire region and now nationally.

“We’ve put an enormous amount of effort into creating a safe and supportive workplace for our team.

“Employee wellbeing is incredibly important to us and we believe that investing in this creates the best environment to enable our people to develop their skills and thrive.”

Judges of the Make UK Manufacturing Awards said of Ideal: “This company exemplifies responsible business, supporting staff through services like counselling, enhanced pension provisions, and wellbeing initiatives.

“By addressing challenges with passion and celebrating achievements, they showcase how manufacturing creates opportunities and makes a lasting impact.”

For the full list of winners in the Make UK Manufacturing Awards 2025 go to: www.makeuk.org/news-and-events/awards-and-competitions/manufacturing-awards/national-award-winners-2025

Humber catchment area is at heart of research project to help UK achieve net zero target

The Humber catchment area is at the heart of new University of Hull research that promises to bring about fresh thinking on land use change to help achieve the UK’s net zero target.

The project has received £4.5 million funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) as a share of £14.5 million under phase two of the Land Use for Net Zero, Nature and People programme (LUNZ).

The Rapid Engagement with Stressed Peatland Environments and Communities in Transformation (RESPECT) is a collaboration between the Universities of Hull, Glasgow Newcastle and Stirling, that brings together expertise in law, archaeology, ecology and environmental geography which will produce data, methods, landholder tools and proposals for governance reforms to change agricultural practices on peatland and reduce emissions from land use.

The £4.5 million project promises to bring about new ideas and approaches to land use change that will help achieve the UK’s net zero target. Governance reforms will be proposed to develop a framework for the social innovations, such as changes in land and farm management practices, necessary for transformative change.

Restoring former peat cuttings, Thorne Moors, Humberhead Levels. Thorne Moors are a remnant of the wetlands that once occupied most of the lowland between Doncaster and the Humber Gap, and have been heavily impacted by human activity including draining, farmland reclaimation and peat extraction – it is estimated that around 50% of Thorne Moors peat is now buried under farmland, and the remaining area is degraded but has potential for restoration. Photo: ©Peter Roworth, FRPS, 2009

Flooded part of Thorne Waste or Moors by Chris Morgan

Peatlands are one of the world’s most important habitats and the largest terrestrial carbon store. However, 80% of UK peatlands are in a damaged and deteriorating state, meaning they are often a carbon source rather than sink. This is alarming in the context of the climate emergency.

Restoring peatland is therefore an urgent priority for the UK, necessary to meet the net zero commitment. Two case study regions – the Humber and Forth Catchments in England and Scotland – will be investigated in-depth, where tensions exist between food production, historic environment preservation, carbon sequestration and ecological restoration.

The Humber catchment covers 20% of England and its peatlands, from heathery plateau peatlands covering the windswept tops of the Pennines and North York Moors via the remnants of the UK’s largest lowland raised bog complex in the Humberhead Peatlands to the salt marshes of the Humber estuary. Better management of the peatlands throughout this densely populated landscape has the potential to increase carbon storage, reduce flood and drought risks, and benefit humans and wildlife alike.

Professor Graham Ferrier, project leader of RESPECT at the University of Hull, said: “This new project provides an outstanding opportunity to develop further new land and farm management approaches and

tools to aid farmers in achieving net zero goals. The project involves collaboration with a wide range of local stakeholders including Natural England, Historic England, the National Farmers Union, the National Centre for Resilience and the National Trust. The allocation of £730,000 to the University of Hull will allow us to apply our understanding of peatland function and how they respond to restoration to help develop tools for decision-making and prioritisation of restoration efforts.”

Dr Jane Bunting, Co-Investigator and Reader in Geography, said: “Peatlands keep a record of their own history in their layered sediments. Here at the University of Hull, we have developed techniques for translating the peatland archive into a sequence of maps which are readable by any stakeholder, enabling us to develop a longerterm view of how healthy peatlands function and when and how current peatlands began to deteriorate. This will enable us to make well informed recommendations for management for the long-term health of peatlands and safety of their carbon sinks.”

RESPECT will collate data through novel interdisciplinary collection, modelling and engagement methods. These data will

establish the capacity of land and land users to contribute to the net zero target, as well as generate other social and environmental co-benefits, balanced against conflicting land use demands, within the context of climate change.

Professor Jill Robbie, Project Investigator in the School of Law at the University of Glasgow, leading the project, said: “The UKRI funding comes at a crucial moment in the UK’s transition to net zero, and I am excited to coordinate the research in order to deliver useful and accessible tools to reduce emissions from land use.”

RESPECT will work closely with separately funded UKRI initiative, the Land Use for Net Zero Hub: Lunzhub.com. Established in November 2023, the LUNZ Hub is working to provide all four UK administrations with the rapid evidence they need to develop policies that will drive the UK land transformation required to achieve Net Zero by 2050, alongside other environmental targets.

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