Billingham entrepreneur Graham Moore has received investment from UK Steel Enterprise to fund his personal protective equipment startup business.

UK Steel Enterprise directed funds of £3,500 from their Regeneration Fund, specifically allocated for startups.

The recently established company, EAG Suppliers, is already experiencing considerable growth, as Graham expects to be employing a team of six by Christmas.

The company supplies protective equipment including workwear, overalls, safety gear, helmets and boots to companies in the construction, engineering, power, chemical and other sectors, such as Bulkhaul Ltd, Marine Fabricators Ltd and LV Shipping Ltd.  

Engineer Graham saw an opportunity when he spotted a local company going into liquidation and stepped in to take over its customer database and save its two highly experienced employees from redundancy.

Neil McCorkell and Natalie Scarr, both from Hartlepool, were both facing redundancy so were delighted to find that jobs were there for them at the new company.

EAG Suppliers has already taken on a third member of staff at the company’s base on Middlesbrough’s Riverside Park where it has offices and a busy trade counter and, if business continues as it is, Graham expects to create another two or three jobs in the next few months.

Graham said: “It felt like a chance not to be missed but I was finding it hard to get any financial support and the early days of a business are when you really need some help to cover initial expenses such as stock,“

“My accountant put me in touch with UK Steel Enterprise and I’m delighted that he did as they agreed to help.“

“They have 40 years of experience in the business between them and that is proving invaluable.“

“Customers, especially the smaller companies, are really valuing the quality advice and personal service they are getting from us.“

Sarah Thorpe of UK Steel Enterprise, said: “We provide loan and equity investment packages of up to £750,000 but also have a special Regeneration Fund that supports start-up and early-stage businesses like EAG Suppliers.

“This is often a crucial stage when a relatively small investment can make all the difference and, as a subsidiary of Tata Steel, our bottom line is about regeneration and job creation so we can often be more flexible than other lenders.

“Graham is already creating jobs to add to the two that were safeguarded so has made an excellent start and we will be watching EAG Suppliers’ progress with interest.“

All Saints Living have acquired a project which consists of the conversion of a former Public House & outbuildings to create 5 Executive Homes, including the 18th Century Black Rock Forge Cottage

An empty 19th Century Coaching Inn in Northumberland is to receive a new lease of life, and will be part of a new hamlet of distinctive homes thanks to All Saints Living, a privately owned development company based in Newcastle.

The Mason Arms, on the outskirts of Rennington, along with outbuildings and the original Black Rock Forge Cottage, is being carefully redesigned and renovated into versatile luxury family homes, combining the best of original features and high specification finishes.

All Saints Living is the development arm of The High Street Group of Companies, one of the fastest growing entrepreneurial firms in the North East. Since launching in late 2013, the development company has grown substantially, with close to 100 residential units under construction across the UK.

The company has recently launched a landmark project in Stirlingshire, which is the £18 million renovation and redevelopment of Larbert House & Country Estate into 56 luxury homes.

Managing Director, Willi Thompson said “A major aspect in our rapid success has been our use of joint ventures in the majority of our projects, and we are always actively seeking further projects that suit the company profile.“

Willi added “We are delighted to be breathing new life into an old pub in the heart of Northumberland, and have been working with local contractors to ensure the properties are completed to the standard expected of All Saints Living homes.“

Work has already begun on site and the conversion of Black Rock Forge Cottage will be completed later this month.

Image source: gitsul.

A fitness club operator has unveiled plans to launch 20 new sites after successfully launching a first to the UK health market.

After being supported through its start-up phase by Leeds-based business lender Reward, 3-1-5 Health Clubs is embarking on an ambitious growth strategy which includes rolling out the X-Force UK brand.

3-1-5 Health Clubs, which has grown membership at its flagship fitness club in Lancaster, Lancashire, to more than 4,500 in its first year of operation, has the exclusive license rights with the Swedish manufacturer to supply its market leading equipment and build a chain of X-Force branded clubs by targeting independently owned fitness clubs to become franchise partners.

The company is also targeting professional sports clubs following successful trials with football clubs Morecambe and Preston North End.

Sean Thornton and Ceri Smith, the founders of 3-1-5 Health Clubs who both have years of experience in the health and fitness industry, described the X-Force equipment as “revolutionary” and said research had shown that those who use it had hit their fitness goals quicker than other gym users.

The patented X-Force equipment, consisting of a total of 18 machines, supplies 40 per cent extra negative resistance than comparable equipment enabling muscle gain to be attained more quickly than by other methods of strength training.  

Mr Thornton said: “3-1-5 Health Clubs are more than a gym; we want our members to view our clubs as an extension to their lifestyle, a place where the entire family can be together, doing things they enjoy, in an environment people want to return to. The key to our success is hinged on the X-Force training equipment and the extraordinary results it’s able to deliver. We are targeting the opening of 20 new 3-1-5 Health Clubs across the UK over the next two years and believe our offer has the capability to quickly become a market leader.“

Reward’s Neil McGivern said: “As a start-up business 3-1-5 Health Clubs has had a tremendous start. After the company acquired its premises in Lancaster, a 63,000 sq ft former Total Fitness gym creating around 40 new jobs, it required our support to allow it to plan for further growth.

“The working capital we have provided has been instrumental in giving 3-1-5 Health Clubs the platform required to allow it to plan for an exciting future.“

Commenting on Reward’s support, Mr Thornton added: “Reward has given us huge support and has been a key pillar in enabling 3-1-5 Health Clubs to succeed and flourish. It’s testament to Reward’s offer that they were able to lend to a relatively young business and for that we’re extremely grateful.“

Family-run Yorkshire Cleaning Fabrics (YCF) Ltd has purchased new premises as part of a six-figure funding deal supported by NatWest.  

The company, which is located in Halifax, manufactures a range of textile and allied cleaning products aimed at the janitorial, automotive, industrial wiping and butchery trades.

YCF was started in 1972 when brothers Edward and Joseph spotted a gap in the market for stocinkette or mutton cloth for industrial and motor trade businesses.

The new 36,000 square foot unit is located next to YCF’s current premises on Drakes Industrial Estate on Shay Lane and the company is in the process of moving to the new premises.   

Robert Wood, of YCF, said: “We had been in search of new premises for a number of years. We extended the space we currently operate in as the business has grown but we needed additional space as we have simply outgrown our current home.”   

When the time came to acquire funding for the move, Robert turned to David Hodgson who is a Senior Relationship Manager at NatWest for support. David obtained a commercial mortgage to support.  

Robert said: “We have been banking with NatWest for a few years and David was very good to work with. He was very efficient and kept us informed as necessary.”  

David said: “I was delighted to support YCF on its purchase of new premises. It’s a long-established Halifax business which continues to grow and I wish the business every success for the future.”  

Garry Grett, Cripps

Law firm Cripps, which has offices in Tunbridge Wells, London, Kings Hill, and Discovery Park, has appointed Garry Brett as partner.   Garry Brett, who has a City background and more than 30 years’ legal experience, has joined the firm’s expanding Development Team. 

His appointment brings the number of partners at Cripps to 48.  

Brett said: “Cripps is a successful, expanding practice that is setting the standard for other law firms. The real estate team has an exceptional reputation and industry focus, and I very much look forward to contributing to the firm’s continuing growth,“  

Cripps senior partner Michael Stevens said: “I am delighted to welcome Garry to Cripps. He brings a wealth of experience at a time when we are winning a large amount of exciting new development and investor work.“

Mike Best, BitBuzz

Irish WI-FI solutions specialist Bitbuzz has appointed Mike Best as Senior Business Development Manager for London. 

Mike’s new role will involve leading the UK sales team where he will recommend suitable Wi-Fi solutions to independent hotels and hotel groups. 

The aim of Mike’s role is to increase growth for Bitbuzz in the UK and expand its customer base.

Mike’s most recent role was with Premier Choice Telecom in London as a Business Sales Consultant.

His previous roles include Regional Sales Manager for British Telecom and Senior Retail Manager for Vodafone Ltd.

Jeff Whittington, Dong Energy

DONG Energy Sales has appointed Jeff Whittingham as managing director. Jeff is taking over from Mike Hogg who is retiring after more than 41 years in the energy industry. 

The new appointment will be effective on 1st November 2014.

Jeff joins from Inenco where, as COO, he has been responsible for growth initiatives, business development, regulation and general business management across all three divisions.   

Mike Hogg said “I have thoroughly enjoyed my forty-one and a half years in the European energy industry having met and worked with some wonderful people. I look forward to working with Jeff and the senior management team during the transition period.“  

Jeff Whittingham said, “I am excited at the prospect of joining DONG Energy and continuing the great work that Mike and the team have done delivering high levels of customer satisfaction and entry into the electricity market which will provide the business with significant future growth opportunities."

Mark Taylor, durhamlane  

Mark Taylor has been appointed new associate partner by London-based durhamlane, joining the firm from global information technology company HP.   

Working from the company’s Hanover Square office, a key priority will be to target new business in London and along the M4 corridor (Reading and Newbury) from customers in the IT, software and technology looking for cost effective, added value sales growth.  

Mark Taylor said: “I’m delighted to join durhamlane, who are fast establishing a national reputation for outsourced sales expertise with clients who include Anglia Ruskin University, luxury goods retailer Harrods and construction firm the Elliott Group.  

“Contracting out the sales function is on the rise as increasing numbers of businesses understand what’s involved and see the long term benefits. It adds value to the supply chain and is a vital cog in the engine of growth and development.“ 

Paul Stevens, RedPixie

London-based technology firm RedPixie, which specialises in transforming IT environments for business success, has appointed Paul Stevens as chief operating officer.   

In his new role, as part of the executive team, Paul will be responsible for directing RedPixie’s sales & marketing initiatives, overseeing the firm’s professional services organisation and growing RedPixie’s international presence, with a particular focus on the USA.  

With over 30 years of technology and management experience, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to RedPixie.

Paul has significant IT industry experience, having worked successfully at all levels within global organisations, SMEs and start-ups.  

Paul said, "The RedPixie vision – of technology being automated, easy to use, scalable, and workable – is attractive, believable and motivating. I am excited to be part of making the firm’s vision a reality.“  

“The firm’s ethos, that technology strategy must work entirely for, and in concert with the business strategy is compelling, and the key to commercial success in the Digital Age. I relish the opportunity of working with the RedPixie team, and contributing to the continued commercial success, and growth, of our clients and the business.“

Image source: aberrocreative

North Shields entrepreneur Tina Shaw has launched a fitness enterprise, with help from North Tyneside Council’s The Business Factory.

Tina, 32, left her career as a property lawyer in favour of becoming her own boss by qualifying as a personal trainer and launching Northern Star Fitness, a complete guidance on health, fitness and nutrition.  

Just a few months after launching Tina is reportedly growing her client base month-on-month, meeting and exceeding her business targets.

Having worked in property law for 13 years, Tina was ready for a new challenge and approached The Business Factory for guidance on how to set herself up as self-employed and launch Northern Star Fitness.  

The Business Factory, funded by North Tyneside Council offers free advice and professional support to anyone planning to start a business in North Tyneside.  

Since it was launched in 2010, its team of business advisors have helped more than 3000 people to consider starting their own business, resulting in over 850 new businesses, by giving practical support on the real issues facing start-ups such as marketing, sales techniques and ideas development.

Tina was introduced to business adviser, Janice Ross who advised on the legalities of self-employment, marketing and developing a robust business plan.

In additional to fitness advice, Tina offers metabolic body assessments which allow her to offer bespoke nutrition and training plans for her clients, helping them to break down mental barriers towards food.  

Tina is now working towards securing a permanent base for Northern Star Fitness by leasing a commercial premise.

Tina said: “Janice’s help was invaluable to me.

“I was a complete novice when it came to utilising social media for business, hosting web domains and knowing how to present myself through my business but Janice was patient and understanding, making it an enjoyable rather than stressful process.  

“Her support and motivation throughout, including the hints and tips she provided to ensure I hit my business targets have allowed me to make the strides that I have.

“My advice to anyone looking to start their own business would be to just do it! Although I’m not earning the money I was on when I was a property lawyer - I am so much happier.

“I get to make all of the decisions and I enjoy a far better quality of life and job satisfaction.  

“I recommend The Business Factory to all my friends when they have a moan about their current jobs.“

North Tyneside Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for Business Support, Cllr Frank Lott, said: “It is fantastic to hear of local entrepreneurs like Tina who have pursued their passion and launched their own business.  

“Northern Star Fitness is the perfect example of how an enterprise can be born out of having the right can-do attitude coupled with the right support.  

“As more people want a better work-life balance, we’re seeing an increasing amount of new start-ups around the region accessing the free services of The Business Factory.  

“I wish Tina all the best in her future endeavours with Northern Star Fitness – I’m sure her tenacity will stand her in good stead to achieve her goals.“

The Translation People has receive more than £500k of new business, putting the company on course for a record year.

The translation and language services provider, which has its headquarters in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester, has seen demand surge as more and more companies focus on their global operations and driving export-led growth.

Major new customers this year include Microsoft, Heinz, Jaguar Land Rover, Warburtons, Etihad Airways, Balfour Beatty, Experian and insurance giant ACE Group.

The Translation People, which has four UK offices and operations in Paris, Bonn and the US city of Boston, is on track to achieve sales of £4 million in the year to December 31, up from £3.5 million in 2013.

Overseas sales now account for 43% of overall revenues, up from 39% a year ago, boosted by 27% revenue growth across France and Germany, the firm’s fastest-growing foreign markets. 

Steve Wilde, managing director of The Translation People, said: “We have continued to reap the benefits of our clients’ ongoing focus on global business, which we support by assisting with their multi-lingual requirements.

“The business is increasingly being viewed as a leading European translation agency, rather than purely a UK company. 

“Our expertise is increasingly being sought by companies from other continents seeking to break into European markets.

“As we now offer an increased number of language combinations, such as Japanese into German, we are able to attract a wider range of companies from different countries.

“We aim to continue in this vein to strengthen our position even further in 2015.“

In a year when York became the centre of the cycling universe, two city entrepreneurs have wheeled away with three prizes for their trailblazing tandem.

Paul Stanton and Belinda Noda won the £5,000 top prize in the Sheffield Hallam University Enterprise Challenge for their Daisy Bell bicycle.

The bike, designed so an able-bodied person and a disabled person can ride along together side by side, also took the award for the best manufacturable product and a popular vote secured them the audience award worth another £2,000.

The married couple from Fulford now plan to put the bike into production.

Paul and Belinda, a wheelchair user, had tried other tandems aimed at couples like them. “Paul and I tried out one design where I was transported, wheelbarrow-style, on the front of his normal bicycle, Belinda said. “I felt vulnerable and isolated – we just couldn’t communicate and the experience wasn’t shared.”

Then they found a second-hand bike called The Discoverer, a side-by-side invented in Birmingham by Roger Taft 20 years ago.

That inspired them to create the Daisy Bell. By using a unique linking system Belinda’s wheelchair can be attached and detached as necessary – which means the bike can be easily secured in a cycle rack or on a train.

The pair, who arrived at their 2011 wedding on the bike, have since cycled from Arbroath to Dundee, traversed long stretches of the Trans Pennine Trail and enjoyed a two-week cycling holiday in The Netherlands with Belinda’s three daughters.

With the help of design and engineering specialists they hope soon to have a patented prototype. The Daisy Bell, which would cost from £3,400, would be manufactured to order.

Belinda was paralysed from the chest down at the age of 27 when the driver of the van she was travelling across the USA in fell asleep at the wheel. But she has never let that limit her horizons, saying “It’s your approach to life that defines you, not your physical body.”

The Daisy Bell has granted them the freedom to cycle and they want others to enjoy it too.

They won their three Enterprise Challenge prizes at a dinner on Thursday, October 2. The competition is open to current students and graduates of Sheffield Hallam University from the last five years.

Her response to winning the awards? “Utterly flabbergasted!” she wrote on Twitter. “Fantastic evening, beautiful people – a humbling experience.”

Like York, Sheffield took part in Le Grand Départ of the Tour de France this summer. “It is great to see a cycle-inspired entry in this year’s Enterprise Challenge following our memorable involvement in Le Grand Depart,” said Sheila Quairney, head of enterprise at the university’s research and innovation office.

“Belinda and Paul have created an innovative and sustainable concept which is already attracting business interest.”

Alex Hunter, Ian Gibson and Rhiannon Griffiths, Andrew Thirlwall, Muckle LLP

Newcastle commercial law firm Muckle LLP has made four new appointments into its real estate team.

Solicitors Alex Hunter, Ian Gibson and Rhiannon Griffiths have joined the firm and solicitor Andrew Thirlwall has qualified into the team, after spending two years as a trainee.

Solicitor Rhiannon has eight years’ experience in advising leading UK financial services institutions on a broad range of real estate and finance transactions.

Alex Hunter has more than nine years’ experience of real estate work, including landlord and tenant matters, property finance, freehold and leasehold acquisitions, disposals and development projects.

Ian Gibson has four years’ experience of acting for commercial developers and the public sector on a variety of real estate matters across the North East.

Jonathan Combe, partner and head of the Real Estate team at the firm, said: “We have invested heavily in our team and these new appointments will help to significantly strengthen the breadth and depth of the advice and service that we can offer to our clients.

Ian said: "I am delighted to have joined Muckle where the quality of the work on offer is fantastic.  It’s great to be part of something that is growing and to be at a firm which makes such a significant contribution to the local community."

Neil Large & Kim Teague, BHP Law

Corporate, banking, private equity and restructuring lawyer Neil Large has been appointed to BHP Law along with and para-legal Kim Teague at the firm’s Newcastle office.

Neil, who qualified as an in-house lawyer with Northern Rock after completing his law degree at London University and finals at Northumbria University, has joined as an associate.

Neil said: “Running a firm with a partner give me an insight into the other side of the profession and experience and understanding I can draw on in supporting clients,"

Paralegal Kim Teague, who is from Durham, began her working life as an apprentice jockey at stables in North Yorkshire and has had a rich and varied career ranging from interior design in Belgium and estate agency to painting miniature cottages, before entering the legal profession.

Kim said: “I worked with Neil and James at another practice and got a taste for company law.

“I am really enjoying it at BHP being part of a great team handling such a varied portfolio of work.“

Angela Hall, AYO Digital

Newcastle technology firm AYO Digital has appointed Angel Hall as head of strategy. Angela has served senior management roles within Grainger plc, NRG plc and Sage.

Angela said: "Working in an innovative, dynamic and technology driven business is a new and stimulating challenge for me.

“I’ve never worked with a company who can solve so many business issues with such efficiency and effectiveness.  

"These vary from large business delivery solutions to hardware integration, such as the chip timing software for the Great North Run. This gives me an excellent opportunity to help AYO grow into one of the UK’s leading technology companies.“

Paul Foy, The Gateshead Housing Company

Paul Foy has been appointed as Board Chair of The Gateshead Housing Company. Paul is a Gateshead Councillor for the Birtley area of Gateshead.

Barbara Dennis OBE DL, Board Chair of The Gateshead Housing Company, left the role after the company’s recent AGM, after a highly successful ten years, eight of them as Chair.

Paul is also Vice Chair of Gateshead Council’s Corporate Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee, a member of the Planning and Development Committee and a Board Member of Keelman Homes.

He said: “I am delighted to take up the role of Board Chair at such an important time for the company and for the people of Gateshead as we look to keep our high standard of housing services and build new affordable homes across the borough.

“I intend to build on the good work that Barbara did during her time in the role and keep on working to improve the services that thousands of local people receive every day from us.“

Alison Crake, National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD)

Alison Crake, co-founder of Stockton-on-Tees-based family firm Crake and Mallon, has been appointed as the new Chair of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) Committee for Professional Development (CPD).

The CPD exists to develop, co-ordinate, maintain and deliver educational qualifications and courses for corporate and individual development within the funeral profession and to effectively disseminate information relevant to members’ businesses on matters of education.

Alison also sits on the NAFD executive committee and has been involved in the recent review of the Code of Practice.

Alison said: “I have been a member of the CPD since 2010, and, as somebody who has always been pro-education I have thoroughly enjoyed playing my part.“

“Becoming chair of the CPD is a real challenge. We all get on very well as a team and are united in our objective of getting the message out within the industry that having professional qualifications gives value not only to the employee but to their employer as well.

“Ours is an unregulated industry and having respected qualifications supports the NAFD’s core objective of maintaining high standards and building trust with bereaved families."

Keith Nicholson, Newcastle United Foundation

Newcastle United Foundation has recruited Keith Nicholson into the newly created post of Programme Manager.  

Keith has been appointed to ensure the high performance and sustainability of the Foundation’s externally funded projects.

He joins the Senior Management Team, contributing towards the leadership, strategy and priorities of the organisation and will assist with new business development.  

Keith has worked for over 10 years in senior roles in the sector, as part of the senior team at Changing Lives, as Head of Neonatal Charity, Tiny Lives and most recently leading on the setup of the Newcastle Voluntary Sector Consortium.  

Keith said: "I am delighted to be joining such a prestigious organisation at a key moment in its history.  

"Newcastle United Foundation is a very new charity and yet has made such a significant impact in such a short time.  

"The staff team, under the stewardship of Kate Bradley, is well known across the city for delivering excellent work to some very vulnerable groups and the charity is viewed as an exemplar in many ways by others in the sector.  

"It is a privilege to be a part of the team and I am very excited about the future of the foundation.”

Lucy Dobson, Henderson Insurance Brokers

Henderson Insurance Brokers Ltd (HIBL) has appointed Lucy Dobson as a claims handler.

Before joining Henderson Insurance Brokers, the 22-year-old worked for a personal injuries claims management company in Hull for two years.

Chris Harvey, director, said: “Henderson Insurance Brokers is 100 per cent committed to providing the very best customer service, of which claims handling is a fundamentally important part. 

“The addition of Lucy takes our claims department team from one to three in East Yorkshire, showing, I believe, how much emphasis we place on providing local teams for local claims.

“Operating nationally Henderson strives to ensure a top quality service locally while continuing to see business at the office achieving record levels.”

Harry Hill, Landwood Group

Harry Hill, the former chairman and chief executive of Countrywide Plc, has joined the Landwood Group, the chartered surveyors, asset managers and auctioneers, as a non-executive director.

Mr Hill ran Countrywide Plc for 20 years before selling the company for £1 billion to USA-based Apollo. 

During those 20 years, Rightmove was created and floated, while Chesnara Plc was spun out of the group.

Mr Hill said: “I am delighted to join the Landwood Group in a non-executive capacity and will be excited to contribute ideas and guidance to the directors and senior management team as they seek to consolidate and expand their impressive business so as to be even better able to serve their impressive list of blue-chip clients."

Mark Bailey, a director of the Landwood Group, who have offices in Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and London, said:

“This is a tremendous coup for us. Harry Hill’s expertise, network and experience will be invaluable to us. 

"We have worked with Harry on an informal basis in the past and we are now delighted to welcome him aboard in a more official capacity.

“His decision is join us is a resounding endorsement of the progress we have made, and the reputation we have forged, since we set up the company six years ago.

"To be able to attract someone of Harry’s calibre is extremely satisfying. He will play a pivotal role in the growth of our business as we continue to expand and to provide the best possible service for our clients.

Hugh Thompson, Langleys Solicitors LLP

Hugh Thompson has joined the private client unit at Langleys Solicitors LLP as a senior associate.   He is heading the unit’s international probate team, advising overseas based executors, beneficiaries and lawyers on all aspects of probate, wills and estate administration – particularly those living and working in New Zealand and Australia.   Hugh has recently returned to Yorkshire from New Zealand where he worked for 12 years as a private client solicitor with one of the country’s largest legal practices specialising in wills, trust and succession and asset protection planning.   He said: “It was a tough decision to leave New Zealand but it is great to be back in Yorkshire and back with family. Both places have a lot more in common than you think – they are both strong rural communities with strong connections to the land and agriculture as well as commercial activities in the main centres.   “There is also an equine connection as my wife Fiona and I flew back two strong New Zealand eventing horses with us. Fiona, who is heavily involved in all aspects of the sport, will compete at events across the Yorkshire region as she did in New Zealand.”  

Ellie MacDonald & Adam Newsome, Faith PR

Leeds-based Faith PR has appointed Ellie MacDonald as account manager and Adam Newsome as website developer.   Ellie MacDonald has recently joined the growing team and will be working on delivering integrated communications campaigns covering PR, marketing and social media for clients across both B2B and B2C sectors.   Ellie joins Faith after working for the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce for the past two years as marketing manager.   Ellie said: “I have some exciting accounts to work on to ensure a range of clients are promoted as effectively as possible which is a fantastic new challenge for me.”   Adam Newsome joined the team last July as website developer coming from Axita where he worked as operations manager. 

Since joining, Adam has developed Catherine Green and The Personnel Partnership’s websites.   Adam said: “I am really enjoying my time at Faith PR. I have had the opportunity to work on and build very complex and interesting websites. I thrive on challenges and I can see a positive future for myself here."

Mark Potter, Britcon

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire based building and civil engineering contractor, Britcon has appointed Mark Potter.

Mark, who has more than 15 years of experience within the construction sector, previously held senior business development and operational roles for some of the UK’s leading contractors.

At Britcon Mark will be responsible for the preparation of bid submissions for major construction projects. This involves reviewing tender deliverables, controlling complex tender planning, strengthening the estimating team and improving on the technical presentation of bids.

Paul Clarkson, construction director at Britcon, said, “We are pleased to welcome Mark to the bid management team at Britcon.  

"He joins at a critical stage in the growth of the business as we experience increased opportunities in the marketplace, particularly across key growth areas such as energy, renewables, power, emergency services and commercial/industrial developments.  

"I am sure Mark’s specific expertise will prove invaluable in helping us to secure further business success.”

Jenny Wilson, Costcutter Supermarkets Group

York-based Costcutter Supermarkets Group has appointed Jenny Wilson as its new Marketing Director.   

Jenny joins Costcutter Supermarkets Group from food wholesale distributor Bidvest 3663 where she has been director of marketing for the last five years.

Jenny has held senior roles with Dairy Crest, Sodexo and Virgin and will work closely with the group’s retail and trading departments to continue to develop the retailer and consumer marketing and promotional programmes.   

Darcy Willson-Rymer, CEO of Costcutter Supermarkets Group, said: “Our retail, trading and marketing teams are at the heart of our plan to drive the group forward and add further value to our members’ businesses. 

"Jenny’s experience across the wider retail and food industries brings valuable insight to our business and she will play a crucial role in delivering our brand propositions and leading the constant evolution of our marketing support programmes. 

"Jenny’s appointment adds further strength to our leadership team and I am delighted that she is joining us.” 

Jenny said: “The decision to create a new business model for its members shows the level of ambition Costcutter Supermarkets Group has and I am excited to be joining the business at this time.”     Paul Taylor, Harris Construction Management

West Yorkshire construction firm Harris Construction Management has appointed Paul Taylor as business development manager.   Paul, who has more than 32 years experience in the construction industry to the position, has previously worked in both business development and as a Quantity Surveyor.   Paul said: “Harris Construction Management is a rapidly growing organisation, that continued to grow during the downturn and is now ideally positioned to take advantage of the opportunities that are arising as the UK’s construction industry continues to emerge from recession.  

"As a result this is a great career move and an excellent opportunity to join a fast moving business at a very exciting time.”

Alan Richardson, Yorkshire Bank

Longstanding Yorkshire Bank employee, Alan Richardson, has been appointed as Relationship Manager for small business in and around Kirklees and Calderdale. 

Alan has been with Yorkshire Bank for more than 10 years, and brings with him a wealth of experience in retail and business banking. 

He has built up considerable knowledge working with a number of high profile commercial customers in the region, including insurance companies, care homes and law firms.

Alan said: “During my career I’ve always strived to be  part of the local community and provide a service which customers can trust and rely on.

“I believe the value of local knowledge and understanding can’t be underestimated and I look forward to bringing that to my new role.”

Andrew Davidson, head of Business and Private Banking for Yorkshire Bank in Bradford, said:

“The addition of Alan to our team reinforces our commitment to support small businesses in Yorkshire. Market conditions are improving and many businesses are taking advantage of increased confidence and activity to invest and ready themselves for a period of consistent growth.

“As a local to the region, Alan has a sound understanding of the business landscape so he’s ideally placed to help SMEs realise and achieve their growth ambitions.”

Gerald Jennings, Leeds Chamber of Commerce

Gerald Jennings is to be Nigel Foster’s successor as president of the Leeds Chamber of Commerce. 

Gerald, portfolio director at Land Securities, is the man behind the Trinity Leeds development which opened in 2013 bringing with it 65 high profile retail brands to the city.

Gerald will take up the role of Vice-President from October 3rd 2014, before taking on the Presidency in 2015.

Leeds Chamber is part of the West & North Yorkshire Chamber which covers Leeds, Bradford, York and North Yorkshire.

Current President Nigel Foster said: “I am delighted that Gerald has agreed to become the next Leeds Chamber President. With his excellent network of contacts, business acumen and passion for Leeds I believe he has all the experience to be President and will provide businesses with strong representation on matters of relevance to members.”

Gerald Jennings said: “I am looking forward to taking on the role of Chamber President and will continue to ensure that the business voice is heard loud and strong. 

"Leeds is a vibrant city with a strong commercial heritage and the Chamber plays an important role in bringing organisations together for their mutual benefit. 

"As we approach an election year, politicians of all persuasions have been courting the big cities with offers of devolved powers and funding. 

"I see the Chamber playing a leading role in articulating the business voice in Leeds and setting out our demands of whichever government holds the reins in May 2015 and beyond.”

Image source: James Cridland

Manchester City Council-managed Corridor Growth Fund (CGF) has awarded Veraz Ltd with a £59,962 grant helping in the creation of four full-time positions.

The CGF is a £2 million fund managed by Manchester City Council, and supported by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund, to back research and development-related employment growth in the city’s Corridor area. 

Grant funding totalling £1.66 million has been provided through 14 awards, helping create 106 jobs and safeguard a further 13 since May 2013.

Veraz Limited innovate and design products to improve the management of processes in the workplace. 

They were awarded £59,962 from the CGF with an application centred on creating up to four full-time positions over 12 months and lowering their costs of R&D in conjunction with the Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CMFT).

The funding also means they can extend and further develop their Green Badge System (GBS). 

The GBS ensures hand hygiene protocols are adhered to in hospitals, leading to a reduction in Healthcare Associated Infections contamination.

Veraz Limited, currently based at the MedTech Centre at Manchester Science Park (MSP), hope to base more of their staff in Manchester permanently and make further connections with CMFT. 

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester’s science and research base is one of the city’s key strengths and it is important that we continue to encourage it to help promote the city’s economic growth. This has always been an innovative city and the Corridor Growth Fund is making a contribution towards ensuring that continues.“

Rowena Burns, Chief Executive at Manchester Science Partnerships said: “The Corridor Growth Fund is a clear indication of Manchester’s aspirations to become a true ‘Science City’ by proactively supporting the growth of R&D activity.

“The Corridor is one of only a few places in the UK with the right combination of knowledge assets that can be harnessed for any science and technology company serious about growth.  We are proud that companies in receipt of Corridor Growth Fund awards have been located or chosen to locate at MSP, because they know that being part of a community of like-minded businesses, dedicated to bringing great ideas to market, really does make a difference.“

Manchester-based online fashion retailer LittleBlackDress.co.uk has announced the launch of a new website as well as its first ever own-label collection of dresses, this month.

The Little Black Dress label features a launch collection of 18 dresses inspired by icons, designed for the modern woman, alongside a selection of high street, designer and boutique brands.

Manchester native David Walter, who spent 20 years as a fashion photographer, and established the Photolink Group which employs 185 people and creates assets for many of the UK’s top fashion brands, launched the Little Black Dress brand in 2012.

The new collection sees the business make a move into the wholesale environment for the first time. Already, 35% of the collection has been whole-saled to independent premium boutiques nationwide with expected first deliveries from mid October. 

Little Black Dress secured £750k investment from its team of three investors, Ian Langley, David Walter and Mark Evans, who are keen to replicate the success of other online fashion retailers whilst remaining true to the culture and quality of the Little Black Dress brand.

Creative director and ecommerce specialist Mark Evans, completes the investment team, and is the Chief Executive of Little Black Dress.

He said: “Having worked in the fashion retail industry for over 20 years, the vast network of ‘brilliant’ people is proving to be invaluable in accelerating our progress. 

"The ambition is to create a compelling and differentiating ‘Brand’ positioning that builds on the iconic heritage  of the Little Black Dress name. Becoming a destination for ‘special occasions’ online we’re looking to put the emotion back into shopping, with great product and rich engaging content.

"We’re creating quite a stir already and have plans for ‘luxury’ collaborations in Spring 2015.”

British-based start-up Hassle.com has officially launched in Leeds, creating hundreds of job opportunities for cleaners and making it easy for northerners to reclaim their free time by finding, booking and paying for a trusted local cleaner online.  

The introduction of Hassle.com – the online marketplace for busy people to find cleaners – means that people looking for a reliable cleaner no longer have to badger their friends for recommendations or deal with their local cleaning agency where customers are assigned an unknown cleaner after a time-consuming admin process.  

Customers simply type in their postcode and browse through cleaner profiles and reviews before selecting one who best suits their needs. The entire process takes just 60 seconds and costs a flat rate of just £10p/h.  

Hassle.com is able to provide such an efficient service for customers because it recruits trusted cleaners for the platform that are keen to run their own micro-businesses.

The cleaners on Hassle.com’s website are motivated, loyal and professional self-employed people who are looking to build relationships with their customers.  

The Hassle.com cleaners recognise that the best way to retain business is to offer a personalised clean where they get to know their customers and make sure they are cleaning the way their customers would like to clean.   

“Being a cleaner used to be hard as I was never sure where my next customer would come from,“ comments Diaka Kaba. “Hassle.com has changed the game.  

“Gone are the days where I need to put adverts in their local shop window or push flyers through people’s door. Now I just click a button on the Hassle.com app to accept jobs near to me. I used to have eight clients a week. Now I have 16. The extra money definitely comes in handy.“  

Co-founder and CEO Alex Depledge (pictured right), who is originally from Bradford, says: "We never had a cleaner as a child so when I first thought about getting one it felt a bit odd. But then I realised times have changed. Both my husband and I have busy jobs and can sometimes work 10hr+ days.

"We quickly realised we rarely had free time for each other and we should look to spend quality time together. That is when we realised other people must be in a similar situation and I founded Hassle.com with some friends."  

“My favourite part about Hassle.com is that it works for both the consumer and the cleaner. Whenever we launch in a city we create hundreds of jobs. I’m very proud to be bringing this win-win solution to my home county."

A scheme set up to bridge the skills gap in manufacturing and engineering in the Sheffield City Region is proving a success.

More than 100 companies have signed up to the Academy of Manufacturing and Engineering Excellence (AMEE), which has a target of training up to 800 young people and placing 300 jobless into apprenticeships.

In its first eight months the academy, run by Brinsworth Training, has found apprenticeships for 63 unemployed youngsters and has training completed or in the pipeline for more than 40 staff at more than 20 firms.

Employers who have signed up include Ronseal, Cutting & Wear, Firth Rixson, Toyoda Gosei and Robson Handling Technology. The companies can access subsidised training under the scheme, which is aimed at delivering training that cannot be found elsewhere.

Jen Spendlove, operations director of Brinsworth Training, said: “The training is bespoke in each case. It might be that a company has an employee who knows how to use one piece of equipment, but not another. And rather than sending them on a big course which doesn’t really cover what they want and has all the costs in time and money, we can organise the niche training they need.

“That way it literally fills the skills gaps that can hold companies back. But it is not just for the shopfloor, it can also cover training for managers where they have gaps in knowledge, perhaps in exporting or identifying new markets.“

Jason Sharland, production manager at Robson Handling Technology, of Sheffield, which makes conveyor belt systems for sectors including airports and manufacturing, has two apprentices undertaking training under the AMEE scheme.

Jason said: “Being able to access tailor-made training at a reduced cost is a great help to us. It means we can upskill or multi-skill staff much more easily than we could before. That helps with productivity and ultimately the bottom line.“

The project has been partly supported by HM Government with Employer Ownership funding and has a strategic advisory board made up of more than 20 employers from the engineering and manufacturing sector.

Most of the training is done at the company’s own premises, with the Introduction to Engineering taster days for would-be apprentices run at Brinsworth’s Rotherham base.

Jen Spendlove said: “We have an impressive engineering and manufacturing sector here in the Sheffield City Region, but we need to make sure we have the skills to keep up in a global market.

“Relying on market solutions to the problem doesn’t seem to work. But AMEE is about employers being pro-active and finding the solutions themselves.

“The training also means companies can recruit locally knowing that they can provide the bespoke training needed.

“It might be that they operate in a very niche market and have equipment that is very specialist. It might be difficult or impossible to find off-the-shelf training for that, but under this scheme we can literally build the training to match.“AMEE is open to all manufacturing and engineering businesses in the Sheffield City Region and is due to run until 2017.

Image source: flazingo_photos

Specialist recruitment firm Elevation today announced the completion of a six figure management buyout – with the business now acquired by newly formed parent company Elevation Consultancy Group. The buyout of the business, established in 2010, was led by Group Managing Director and Elevation founder Greg Parkinson and supported by fellow board Director, Lee Bhandal. Formerly part of the Horbury Group and delivering recruitment support to businesses across Yorkshire, Elevation grew despite being founded during the recession. It now has an annual turnover of c£4m, and employs more than 45 consultants recruiting across eight specialist divisions. Greg Parkinson, Elevation Consultancy Group’s Managing Director, said the move marked the start of an exciting period of growth for the business – with plans to expand not only its services within Elevation but also a new business venture called Parkinson Lee Executive Search that will form part of the new Group.

He said: “Lee and I are proud to say that the business has grown rapidly since it was established in 2010, and it is right that we now look to further expand the breadth and depth of services that we offer our current and future client base.“

As part of the newly formed board of Directors, Phil Hill has been appointed as Non-Executive Director and will join Greg Parkinson and Lee Bhandal on the group board. Phil is a qualified Executive Coach, a Business Mentor to a number of fast growth SME’s and a Chartered Accountant. Career highlights include six years as a Finance Director at Plc. level, nine years as Owner/ Managing Director of a High Growth Recruitment Business and seven years advising many businesses and their Directors in strategic growth.

Greg Parkinson said: “We have an excellent Senior Management team at Elevation which has now been strengthened even further by Phil Hill’s appointment as Non-Executive Director.  Phil has extensive experience of advising and assisting owner managers in strategic growth and has a successful track record of delivering this within the Yorkshire Recruitment Industry.

‘’HSBC have not only supported Elevation in the completion of the MBO but has also shown real intent and belief in our business and the services we provide by providing an excellent platform for future investment if/when we require it. HSBC have also backed our plans to launch a new business venture, Parkinson Lee Executive Search, that Lee and I feel will offer the Yorkshire business community a new and fresh approach to executive search appointments.   HSBC Senior Commercial Manager Chris Alsop added: “We were pleased to back this deal given the management team’s experience, expertise and desire to grow the business. There are some exciting times ahead for Greg and his team and HSBC is keen to support the company’s growth.“

Legal support for management was provided by Andrew Francey from Watson Burton LLP with John Baddeley of Wake Smith LLP acting for HSBC; Financial Due Diligence for HSBC and management was provided by Kevin Davies at BHP Corporate Finance. Elevation Consultancy Group continues to deliver services from its two offices in South and West Yorkshire. 

An investment in a successful Humber firm has taken Finance Yorkshire to a new milestone of £80 million invested in businesses – and it is on track to fully invest its £90m fund. The regional funding body has now made 641 investments in businesses across Yorkshire and Humber, creating and safeguarding 7,877 jobs and increasing collective turnover by £215 million. A strong pipeline of both new and follow-on investment opportunities for the final quarter of 2014 will ensure that the Fund is fully invested by the end of the year. Its £500,000 Seedcorn investment in Claughton Office Equipment has given the Melton-based firm the impetus it needs to double in size within the next three years. The business is typical of the firms Finance Yorkshire invests in – ambitious, innovative and with a strong and experienced senior management team in place. Managing Director Gerard Toplass, who led a management buyout of Claughton Office Equipment in 2008, said: “In the last six years we have evolved from a low-volume furniture manufacturer to a national business specialising in modern environments for the education sector. “This investment will unlock the potential for us to become one of the top three in our field in the UK, allowing us to employ more sales people and increase our geography. Finance Yorkshire is more than an investor, it is a trusted partner in our growth, and we would urge other businesses in the region, and particularly in the Humber, to make their ambitions a reality by getting in touch with Finance Yorkshire.“ Claughton Office Equipment designs, manufactures and fits furniture solutions for schools, colleges, universities, and public and commercial offices. It is committed to revolutionising teaching and learning environments, and is at the heart of a growing sector – there are in the region of 30,000 schools in the UK and Government spend on modernising them is increasing year on year. The business now employs almost 40 people and has invested heavily in a purpose-built factory alongside a dedicated product design and space planning department. Finance Yorkshire Chief Executive Alex McWhirter said: “Businesses such as Claughton Office Equipment are the lifeblood of our regional economy, and we are passionate about continuing to invest in them. “We are working on a significant number of new and follow on investment opportunities – the current fund will be fully invested by the end of this year. “In a climate of economic uncertainty it is vital that Finance Yorkshire continues to support SMEs across the region which otherwise may find it difficult to access crucial funding via the more traditional routes.  Consequently, we are working with our stakeholder organisations to ensure that there is continuity to business investment in Yorkshire and the Humber during 2015 and in the future.“ Finance Yorkshire provides seedcorn, loan and equity linked investments, ranging from £15,000 to £2m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to meet their funding requirements for growth and development. The project is supported financially by the European Union. It has attracted £30million investment from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of Europe’s support for the region’s economic development through the Yorkshire and Humber ERDF Programme, £15million from UK Government and £45million match funding from the European Investment Bank.  

South Yorkshire rehabilitation specialist business More Rehab has announced its expansion plans with funding from Barclays. More Rehab , which was established in 2010 and is headquartered at Abbeydale Road, Sheffield, is run by entrepreneur Anna Wilkinson.

The company provides specialized physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy for clients with complex neurological conditions such as acquired brain injury and spinal cord injury, orthopaedic injuries including amputations and rehabilitation for clients with respiratory disease and ventilated clients.

The business operates in the Yorkshire, Humber, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire regions with clinics at Doncaster, Dronfield, Hathersage, Worksop, Ripley and a further two clinics in Sheffield.

The new premises at Beckett Road, Doncaster have been funded by Barclays with a commercial mortgage. Sales turnover  for the business has increased by over 400% since the business started four years ago.

Anna Wilkinson, director of More Rehab who founded the business said: “I am passionate about making sure patients receive the best possible care to improve their quality of life.

"We have a team of expert therapists and a wide range of treatment techniques. The new clinic in Doncaster will be totally refurbished and equipped with the latest technology allowing us to offer additional services.“ Chris North, business banking manager at Barclays arranged the funding and said: “More Rehab is providing specialist services in a niche market and Anna and her team are exceptionally well positioned to take the business forward to the next level.

"The funding will enable business growth with the latest equipment and new services and the future looks bright for this well-managed company.“

PostTea Tea Advent Calendar catches eye of former Dragon’s Den Entrepreneur.

Surrey based firm PostTea is celebrating after receiving a business boost from an entrepreneur who starred on Dragon’s Den. PostTea, a luxury tea gifting service, was retweeted by Theo Paphitis to over nearly 450,000 followers on Monday evening, after being selected as one of his weekly winners of his ‘Small Business Sunday’ campaign, shortened to #SBS.

Kim Villaweaver, founder of PostTea, tweeted Theo about her business during this Sunday’s session [5th October] and is overwhelmed by the surge in interest: "Following our #SBS success, traffic to the PostTea website has increased dramatically, and sales of our seasonal products have soared.

"We’ve gained over one hundred Twitter followers since our win and are excited to get involved in the SBS winner’s community.’

"PostTea’s success with Theo Paphitis comes on the back of an exciting few weeks that has included participation in a #goglobal trade mission to New York with Enterprise Nation.

"As Kim comments, ‘there are currently so many great initiatives and opportunities for small businesses to raise their profile, but you really need to work to make the most of everything. Be proud of your business, and ask for every chance to succeed – no-one will do it for you."

If you’re looking to get involved with Theo’s #SBS campaign should tweet Theo about their business on Sunday evening between 5:00 and 7:30pm, making sure you include the hashtag #SBS and direct your tweet to @TheoPaphitis. Six lucky businesses are retweeted every week and then invited to enter their profile on Theo’s #SBS website.

Two North East entrepreneurs, Angela Cooper and Sarah Marshall, have expanded their online giftware business, the Dotty House, following the launch of new premises in Gateshead.  

The expansion to Beaconsfield Avenue in Lowfell is a self-funded startup from the pair although a small loan was taken to cover necessary structural costs.

The Dotty House sell produce to an array of customers, aged from 8 to 80, who are looking for quality gifts for birthdays, christenings, weddings, Christmas and other occasions.

Products range from personalised christening canvases, to cards, to Jewellery, to homeware.

There exists both a retail and wholesale side to the business; the retail business sells giftware online and from the shop although the pair also manufacture their own products which are sold wholesale to other shops and websites.

Venturing into business together in 2005, the ladies launched the Dotty House selling handmade personalised canvases direct to customers via their website.

Angela and Sarah then did a trade show in Harrogate, leading to the canvases being sold nationwide through other shops and websites, in tandem with their own web based sales.

Several new products have since been launched including personalised christmas baubles, personalised framed prints and personalised santa sacks.

The Dotty House appointed local company Urban River in March this year to develop a new website for the company, who now sell other people’s products as well as their own on the site.

The company’s most recent venture into a high street shop came about as Sarah’s mum had a gift shop in Low Fell and decided to retire.

The entrepreneurs knew they had a great product range comfortably capable of expansion and in turn took on the shop in July.

The pair have since worked on a complete refurbishment of the building, refitting the shop with a new urban feel.

From the shop premises Angela and Sarah can make up and dispatch orders for their personalised products but also increase income by selling directly through the shop.

The pair told Bdaily that they aim to eventually move into a bigger premises and be able to sell a wider range of products.

In addition they also hope to be able to expand the range of personalised products we manufacture, several ideas are reportedly in the pipeline.

Angela and Sarah, told Bdaily: “The biggest challenge, as always, is getting people to know about us.

“We have advertised in the past but it hasn’t proved to be very successful so we are trying promote ourselves via social media.

“We have a Facebook page and also our website developers, Urban River, do seo work regularly to keep the website going.

“For the launch we produced a leaflet and had them delivered locally.

“We are both so excited to be opening our first shop together, it’s a good job we are so friendly as it’s a very small staff room!“

Lancashire-based waste handling systems manufacturer Pakawaste is enjoying a boost in trade thanks to increased export sales.

Pakawaste, which provided the waste handling machinery for the London 2012 Olympics, employs 40 staff in Preston and an additional team of service staff nationwide and has been working with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to develop its overseas trade. 

It now exports over £600,000 of manufactured goods and has seen exports grow from 1% to 25% of business turnover in the last year.

The company has recently opened a dealership in Ahmedabad, India, and commissioned an agent in Bangalore, following a UKTI trade mission in March, and this month CEO David Hamer is returning to India to further business links there.

Pakawaste supplies a huge range of waste disposal equipment including balers, compactors and shredders.  UK customers include Asda, Sainsburys and B&M Bargains as well as Jaguar Land Rover, hospitals, logistics firms and major waste contractors.

Since working with UKTI the business also now sells to a range of overseas markets including Australia, France, Italy, Germany and the Middle East. Pakawaste’s next target market is America, where it is due to open a dealership in Chicago this year.

CEO David Hamer said: “Until recently most of our business was UK based.  We did export a little, winning a contract in Hong Kong as early as 1997, but we had no real strategy and were not making the most of our international potential.

“In 2008 the recession here hit us very hard and we realised it was time to explore more opportunities.“

“We contacted UK Trade & Investment and have had a range of help from them, including taking the Passport to Export programme to help us build a strategy and using market visit support to attend trade missions. 

“We also underwent language and culture training, and commissioned research on the Middle East and Australian markets through UKTI’s Overseas Market Introduction (OMIS) service.“

Pakawaste is now on the Gateway to Global Growth programme, UKTI’s scheme for more experienced exporters, and is looking to increase sales in the Middle East and America.

David Hamer added: “There is huge competition in these markets, but the reason we can compete is that we build a quality product at a competitive price.  We used to have our machinery made overseas but in 2008 we brought manufacturing back to Preston.

“Exports are really helping us to grow our business and we would recommend working with UKTI to other companies wishing to increase their overseas sales.“

Barbara Singleton, International Trade Adviser for UKTI North West added: “Pakawaste has made great progress in new export markets, and has managed to compete in a competitive environment due to the quality and affordability of its products.

“We took Pakawaste on a UKTI supported mission to India in 2014, which helped them find a distributor and make their first sale in India earlier this year.  We also used our staff in embassies and consulates to identify customers in the Middle East for them and orders are now beginning to come through from there.

“The company make and sell the machinery and then provide a service afterwards and many of their products we produce are bespoke – so for example when fulfilling a contract for the Qatar Conference Centre they worked with the architects from an early stage to provide them with tailor made solutions.

“It is expertise such as this which gives many British manufacturers an advantage when selling overseas.  UKTI can help identify opportunities and markets, and research potential customers and provide introductions and we would urge other businesses to get in touch and see how we can help”.

David Hamer recently won Finance Monthly’s Award for CEO of the Year.