The businessman who founded a UK manufacturer of steam cleaning machines has completed a buy-out of the company with funding from Lancashire County Council’s Rosebud Finance.

The deal has allowed Bob Pownall and his family to take full control of Matrix Cleaning Systems by acquiring the shares held by two of the original investors.

It will also secure the jobs of all 14 staff and ensure the business remains at its current site in Leyland.

The company plan to continue to grow the firm and take on an additional 12 people over the next three years.

Matrix was established by Bob in 2001 as Steam Clean UK, a supplier of equipment to remove chewing gum from high streets, and started to manufacture its own steam cleaning machines several years later.

Matrix now manufactures a range of 18 machines for domestic, commercial and industrial applications.

Its products are used in hospitals, schools, shopping centres, restaurants and office buildings and are also popular with contract cleaning companies.

It also manufactures own-label steam cleaning machines for international cleaning equipment companies.

Matrix has a network of distributors across the UK and is already making sales overseas, but now plans to step up its export trade.

The Rosebud loan has allowed the Pownall family to acquire the shares held by two non-executive directors who invested in the early years and who now want to sell their stake in the business.

Rosebud is a finance package supporting Lancashire firms to grow and expand their business. It is managed by Enterprise Ventures on behalf of Lancashire County Developments Ltd (LCDL) - the county council’s economic development company.

Bob said: “The Rosebud funding has removed any uncertainty over the future by bringing full ownership within the family.

“This ensures we can continue manufacturing in Lancashire and press ahead with our plans to target the US and other overseas markets.“

County Councillor Niki Penney, chair of LCDL, said: "We’re pleased that Rosebud is supporting this Lancashire-based family-run manufacturer.

“This will help the team at Matrix to keep existing jobs, while bringing new jobs to the county.

"Advanced manufacturing is one of the key sectors which we’re targeting due to its high growth potential.

“Rosebud aims to create an increasing number of better paid jobs and we are looking to support ambitious growing businesses."

A Lancaster-based honey supplier has lifted its staff training to new heights thanks to the support of a £5.6 million workforce skills programme being delivered in the county.

Honeycomb was able to secure fork lift truck operations training for four of its staff members through the Lancashire Skills Support for the Workforce (LSS) programme.

Myerscough College delivered the training as part of the scheme, which provides funding to enable eligible businesses in Lancashire to invest in up-skilling their workforce.

Honeycomb is an independent fourth generation family run business established in 1947.

It supplies the English honey to residential customers and businesses across the country.

Paul Humphries, who owns Honeycomb, said: “It’s fantastic that we have been able to deliver this training on site with help from Myerscough College and funding from Lancashire Skills Support.

“This has allowed us to increase our efficiencies and increase the number of team members who can safely operate the machine.

“Steve the trainer was first class, and supported us every step of the way.

“The training received was perfect and conveniently delivered on site to our exact needs.“

Andrea Gardner, enterprise manager at Myerscough College, said: “We are trying to offer as many eligible businesses training that will directly help any ‘skills gaps’ they may have.

“The team conduct a full training needs analysis to see exactly what needs they have and try to address these.

“It’s great that our training can have such a direct impact on the business and its efficiency at this busy time of year.“

Image source: p_a_h

•    Agent’s concerns about “revolving door redress schemes” remain as convicted companies appear to be part of letting agent redress schemes.

A new database listing the dodgiest landlords and letting agents in the UK contains no entries from the North East.

Landlords and letting agents convicted of serious safety breaches have been named publicly for the first time in the database, which uses Ministry of Justice data to map firms convicted of offenses including pigeon-infested properties, faulty fire alarms and leaking lavatories.

The resource shows that none of the 68 recorded offences – involving 57 companies – took place in the North East – with the nearest entries to the North East found in Bradford and Harrogate.

The launch of the database comes as new figures showed the rapid growth of privately rented housing in the UK in recent years.

Figures from the EU statistics bureau Eurostat this week showed home ownership levels in the UK to be in “long-term decline”, down by 9.3% since 2005.

The figures also suggest that out of the 2.9m homes constructed in the UK between 2000 and 2012, as many as 2.5m are currently being rented out.

Despite the good news for the North East, property expert Ajay Jagota, founder and Chief Executive Officer of the North East’s most innovative sales and lettings business KIS remains concerned about what he calls “revolving door redress schemes”.

The firm is famous for being the first letting agent in the UK to abolish deposits, replacing them with a one-of-a-kind landlord insurance policy offering guaranteed rent, deposit replacement, legal assistance and round the clock third party emergency home repairs.

Ajay said: “With prosecution only ever being a last resort, this sadly doesn’t mean that North East renters have nothing to worry about, but access to resources like this go at least some of the way towards giving renters peace of mind about their landlords and letting agents.

“My concern is that many of the firms listed on the database are still active. One company has been convicted of five offenses, but still appears to be operating like nothing has happened. There don’t seem to be any meaningful consequences for their actions – people are making their tenants lives miserable and getting away with it.

“Even worse, where does this leave the newly-launched letting agent redress scheme? You aren’t allowed to operate if you aren’t part of it, so does that mean you still join if you’ve been convicted of putting your tenant’s lives at risk? Do you get kicked out of your redress scheme if you are? Can you just join another redress scheme if that happens? These questions need answers.

“The issue is becoming more and more fundamental as more and more people choose renting over buying. A revolving door redress scheme isn’t good enough.”

KIS manage properties for landlords in every corner of the North East from branches across Tyne and Wear, were named Letting Agent of the Year in the 2013 Landlord and Letting Awards and finalists in 2014. The firm expanded into residential sales in 2014.

Image source: Images_of_Money

York-based independent franchised estate agency group Hunters has continued its rapid expansion in 2014, with 37 new branch openings.

Hunters’ has offices in Greater London, West Midlands, County Durham, Berkshire, Suffolk, Herefordshire, Wiltshire and Lincolnshire.

Having opened its first branch 22 years ago in York, Hunters is rapidly becoming one of the major players on the national property scene and estate agency franchising, with over 127 branches now nationwide.

The expansion is set to continue at pace in 2015 with plans already in place  to open in Oldham, Dewsbury, Amersham, Chesham, Leighton Buzzard and Forest Hill during the first quarter.

The agency plans 50 further openings to follow over the year in locations including Hackney, Dartford, Twickenham, Edgware and the Wirral and many more.

Kevin Hollinrake, managing director and Hunters founder, said: “Network growth is at an all-time high, with no other agency growing at the speed we are. These office openings are designed to complement our existing network.

"However, it is not just about being the biggest estate agency; it is about being the best. I believe that much of our success lies in our infrastructure – our independently owned franchised branches are run by business owners who are experts in their own local area – which gives our customers real value.“

Andy Bushell, sales director at Hunters said: "It’s been simply a phenomenal year; we have completed our best year in history in growing the estate agency network. The  37 new locations that opened as Hunters in 2014 stretch across the UK from North Shields in the northeast to Dawlish in the south and all areas in between”

Dental practice Simply One Dental has announced the opening of a new practice on Henrietta Street, Ashton-Under-Lyne, thanks to funding from The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) in a deal worth £1.25 million.

The new practice offers a full range of NHS Dental Services as well as Private Dentistry.

The four partners, including three qualified dentists and a practice manager, have taken over an existing practice and embarked on an extensive refurbishment.

Practice manager and Partner of Simply One Dental, Taufeeq Rauf said:  “We are really excited about the opening of this latest practice.

“It has been quite a few years in the making and the practice was put on our radar at a time the previous owner was looking to retire.

“We are delighted he will be staying on within the practice as an associate so we can leverage his expertise.

“The growth strategy we have implemented is focussed primarily on delivering a first class service to our patients which will allow us to develop a great reputation and establish ourselves within Ashton-Under-Lyne.

“We are very grateful for the funding RBS has provided allowing our business aspirations to come to fruition.“  

Senior healthcare manager at RBS Healthcare, Vicki Evans, said:  “I am really pleased to see the launch of this latest practice and delighted that our funding support made this possible.

“The Simply One Dental team are not only highly trained but they really understand how to run and develop a business.

“I wish them all the very best as they establish themselves in the local community.“

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The Hut Group plan to invest £100 million and create 2,000 jobs in the North West over the next three years.

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne and Prime Minister David Cameron today visited The Hut Group’s (THG) distribution site in Appleton, Warrington to welcome the company’s announcement.

The investment, which provides a further sign of support in the Prime Minister and Chancellor’s long-term economic plan, will see THG’s building a 836,000 square foot distribution and manufacturing centre of excellence at Omega South distribution park, Warrington.

The site will enable THG to increase revenues to £1 billion and is expected to create 2,000 additional jobs in the north-west across technology, engineering, digital, graduate and supply chain roles.

Approximately £80 million will be initially invested in the site by the end of 2015, through both construction and technology, with a further £20 million earmarked for development of the additional development land within 3 years.

THG is one of Europe’s largest online retailers, selling goods direct to consumers across the health and beauty sectors specifically sports nutrition and vitamins; cycling and endurance; hair and skin care; weight management; clothing, footwear and accessories.

THG generates most of its revenues from overseas customers from the sale of Health & Beauty products across 26 international websites, whilst employing its entire 1,300 employee workforce in the north-west.

The visit formed part of the Chancellor and Prime Minister’s 2 day tour of the north-west, where they are setting out their 6-point long-term economic plan for the region, which shows what has been delivered, what is underway and what more can be done to build a northern powerhouse.

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said: “The Hut Group’s investment in 2,000 new jobs in the north-west is fantastic news for the area. It shows that our long-term economic plan to create jobs and investment in the north of England and increase the region’s exports to the rest of the world, is working.

“I want Britain to be a country where companies want to invest and create jobs, which is exactly what The Hut Group are doing today.

CEO of THG, Matthew Moulding, said: “At The Hut Group, we continue to heavily invest in our infrastructure to enable us to deliver on our long-term growth plans.

“In 2014, we invested a further £15 million in our proprietary technology platform, creating an additional 400 jobs in the region during the year.

“This investment enabled us to launch a further 17 international websites across Europe, north America, China and Scandinavia, shipping 13 million orders to 190 countries, with the majority of our sales occurring outside the UK.

“Our £100 million investment in the Omega project is a continuation of THG’s commitment to develop as a British export success, and through the creation of our manufacturing centre of excellence we hope to stimulate further growth, both in the UK and Global nutrition markets.”

Image source: Sheffield Tiger

Sheffield launches its International Economic Commission this month, in an ambitious drive to engage the best brains from around the world in driving the city forward.

The commission will involve a series of visits from internationally-renowned delegates, to enable decision-makers in Sheffield to share expertise and ideas on a global level and boost confidence in the city’s economic plans.

Councillor Leigh Bramall, cabinet member for business, skills and development at Sheffield City Council, said: “We’re driving forward our economic vision in a bold and ambitious way. This is very much about ‘doing’ – not about meetings and presentations - but about moving forward with creativity and confidence, with input from movers and shakers across the world.

“A big part of this is about thinking not just on a national, but on an international, scale. When the very best people in the business want to come to Sheffield to see the city and what it has to offer for themselves, it is a clear sign that we are on the right path.

“Internationally, we want Sheffield to increasingly realise its role in the global marketplace and look at examples from cities around the world for inspiration. More regionally, we want to punch our weight in the Leeds – Manchester – Sheffield economic triangle and make Sheffield City Region the advanced manufacturing and engineering capital of the UK.“

Bruce Katz, vice president of the Brookings Institute and former advisor to President Obama, will be visiting Sheffield City Region on Friday January 16, hosted by Sheffield and Rotherham Councils and the University of Sheffield. The visit forms the first part of Sheffield’s new International Economic Commission.

In what is a major coup for city leaders, he is coming to Sheffield and Rotherham to see Europe’s leading research led manufacturing cluster, centred around the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and the wider Advanced Manufacturing Park at Waverley.

Mr Katz’s visit is the first of a series of “city charrettes,“ which will showcase Sheffield to the world and enable city leaders to make global investment connections.  

He said: “I’ve heard great things about the Sheffield City Region and particularly its research-led Advanced Manufacturing capability, so I’m keen to come and see it for myself.“

Mr Katz, founding director of the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Programme, which advocates the importance of cities in stimulating economic growth, is internationally renowned for his work on policy reforms and strategic investments that can drive cities forward.

He co-led the housing and urban transition team for the Obama administration and previously served as Chief of Staff to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Bill Clinton.

Nelson-based Farmhouse Biscuits expects to create up to 20 new jobs in 2015.

The Lancashire company has seen its business grow considerably in the last 5 years.

It has enjoyed particular success overseas, where it exports over 20% of its produce to key markets including Australia, the United States and Canada, and is now ready to expand by taking on new staff.

The Chancellor visited the company as part of his tour of the North with the Prime Minister.

Chancellor George Osborne said: “Britain’s small businesses are the backbone to our economy, which is why a key part of our long term economic plan is helping them grow and succeed.

“I’m delighted with today’s announcement that Farmhouse Biscuits is planning to expand its workforce, which shows our long term economic plan is working to create jobs and investment in north of England and increase the region’s exports to the rest of the world.

“This is backed by analysis that shows the north-west has seen the joint fastest growth in output per head in the UK.”

Gill McIvor, Farmhouse Biscuits said: “As a long standing large employer in Nelson, we’ve seen at first hand the challenging economic times the area has been through and the real progress that’s now being made.

“Over the last year we’ve invested heavily in new Bakery offices and a new warehouse, which will help us reach new customers both here and abroad.

“And we’re hoping 2015 is going to be even better – we’ll be launching new products and, if everything goes to plan, will be taking on another 10 to 20 staff, with each job we create helping the local area.”

Rachel Baul, Newtons Solicitors

Yorkshire’s Newtons Solicitors has appointed Rachel Baul to its legal team.

Rachel Baul, a former partner at national firm, Stowe Family Law, Harrogate, will work out of all nine offices in the Newtons Solicitors network which has its head office in Knaresborough and has local offices in Teesside, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.

Rachel Baul qualified as a lawyer in 1997 and specialised in family law from 1999. She joined Stowe Family Law in 2004 and covered all aspects of divorce and matrimonial finance as well as pre and post-nuptial contracts and separation agreements.

She said: “I’m very pleased to join Newtons which is a truly dynamic, forward-thinking firm, with a friendly, approachable team which is very client focused and places great emphasis on providing a cost-effective, highly-professional service.“

Newtons Solicitors managing partner, Chris Newton says: “When Rachel approached us to enquire about joining Newtons, we jumped at the opportunity. She is a well-known, highly-experienced senior solicitor who will help us continue to build our successful family law team.“

Scott Morrison, DTZ

DTZ’s Yorkshire Industrial Agency team has appointed Scott Morrison as senior surveyor.

Scott Morrison will join the team having spent over three years working in the agency and insolvency teams at Eddisons and 14 months in the valuation team at CBRE.

DTZ’s Leeds-based industrial agency team is lead by director, Paul Mack, and currently comprises senior surveyor, Nick McTague, and surveyor, Daniel Mitchell.

Paul Mack, director and head of the Yorkshire Industrial & Logistics Agency team in Leeds, said: “Scott will bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm and we are delighted he has chosen to join our team.

“As one of the leading industrial teams in the region with one of the largest book of instructions we pride ourselves on providing an unrivalled level of service to our existing loyal client base and Scott’s appointment will strengthen our ability to do this. 

"As the regional industrial market steadily improves we are seeing an increase in occupier demand for high quality space which is in turn leading to opportunities to win and service new clients.“

Eileen Clarkson, The Floow

Sheffield telematics company The Floow has appointed Eileen Clarkson as finance manager to direct and develop the organisations finance department.

The Floow’s first in-house financier, Eileen Clarkson brings with her more than 20-years’ experience, and will oversee the company’s financial and control processes.

Having worked across a range of sectors, Eileen joins The Floow from Ark Home Healthcare Ltd where she acted as the organisation’s Financial Controller.

Prior to this Eileen held the position of Head of Finance at Little Chef Limited, where she led a team of over 20 people.

Aldo Monteforte, CEO of The Floow, said: “We are delighted to welcome Eileen to our team; she brings with her a breadth of experience and expertise in the financial sector, and will help us to deliver a great service to our clients and continue growing our business.

“The Floow has expanded rapidly over the last 12 months, particularly because of our growth on an international scale. As a result we needed additional support with our finances and Eileen was the perfect fit for this role.“

Stephen Courcier, Carter Jonas

Property consultancy Carter Jonas has appointed Stephen Courcier to its northern planning and development team at its Leeds office.

Stephen joined Carter Jonas’ planning and development division following roles in local government at Selby District Council and Wakefield District Council where he was involved in development management, as well as planning policy.

Stephen will provide strategic planning and development policy advice across major commercial and residential development projects throughout Northern England.  

He is currently involved in the promotion of a number of greenfield and brownfield sites in Leeds through the Local Plan process.  

His clients include the Wilton Estate, KCS Developments Ltd and the Grimston Park Estate. 

Stephen said: “I am delighted to be focusing upon my planning role within Carter Jonas Leeds office, working with the highly experienced and dedicated planning and development teams in all our offices across the north, which provides advice on the delivery of economic, social and environmentally sustainable developments across the country.“

Marian Hawthorn, Valeos

Yorkshire-based value added service provider, Valeos, has expanded its management team with the appointment of Marian Hawthorn.

Started last year by David Ross the specialist consultancy in providing added value services and products to companies in the insurance sector, has appointed Ms Hawthorn as a director 

Marian has over 30 years’ experience in the general insurance market specialising in operational development, particularly in the provision of niche added value products.

Managing director, David Ross said: “The addition of Marian to our board provides us with significant expertise in the fields of compliance, finance and insurance operations,“ said Mr Ross.

“Marian’s appointment underlines our ambition to become the most significant player in our chosen market and she will play an integral role in helping us to achieve that aim. We are delighted that she is joining us at such an exciting stage of our journey."

Marian said: “Valeos has a clear vision and set of values which underpin ambitious, but entirely achievable, plans for growth in the niche added value product market. I am delighted to be appointed as a Director of Valeos Ltd."

Stuart Tulloch, The Art House

The Art House, Wakefield has appointed as Stuart Tulloch as chief executive.

Stuart joins The Art House from his position as curator at Ikon, the contemporary arts venue based in Birmingham.

After studying Fine Art at Newcastle University, he began his career at Newcastle’s Hatton Gallery, before working in the exhibitions team at Hayward Gallery, London. 

He later became Curator of Grundy Art Gallery in Blackpool, leading it to become one of the most respected contemporary visual art venues in the UK.

Stuart said: “My interest in the role at The Art House stemmed from the fundamental reason why I work in the visual arts: to support artists to think ambitiously and make excellent things happen.  I look forward to contributing to the organisation’s continued success and to conceive and lead ambitious plans for its future.  

"I want to build upon The Art House’s founding principle to be a champion of diversity and attract an even wider audience to its programmes.“

Matt Snell & Craig Bell, Red’s True Barbecue

Leeds-based barbecue restaurant operator, Red’s True Barbecue, has appointed Matt Snell as operations director and Craig Bell as finance director.

Snell joins from Fuller’s where he is currently head of operations for the Quality Division, overseeing 98 of the company’s unbranded premium food-led pubs.

Matt, who is relocating back to the north, said: “I’ve been a fan of Red’s since it opened in 2012; both the food and its strong brand.  Getting back into the casual dining industry and into a young entrepreneurial company, which has a clear roll out plan, is incredibly exciting for me.”

Bell is appointed to the board as FD. He joins from the Ladhar Group, the 50-site bar and restaurant group, which include Newcastle’s Hop & Cleaver and national chain, For Your Eyes Only.  

Prior to this Craig was FD at Premium Bars and Restaurant Group PLC where he was responsible for the acquisition of Living Room and Bell & The Dragon. 

Craig said: “Opportunities to work for a company with drive and ambition, a single-minded strategy, and a brand with such admiration, don’t come along very often in the north; I’m delighted to have joined the business.“

Sophie Coulthard & Andrea Potts, Doxford Hall

Doxford Hall in Northumberland, has recently made two appointments to its sales office team.

Sophie Coulthard, from Bedlington, and Andrea Potts, from Alnwick have been appointed as wedding and events co-ordinators for the venue.

Sophie, who holds a degree in Drama from the University of Sunderland, joins Doxford from Linden Hall Hotel where she held the position of wedding and sales co-ordinator.  

Sophie said: “Doxford Hall is a wonderful privately owned venue and I am looking forward to working with the dedicated team in one of the most luxurious and sought after event venues in Northumberland.  We want to make every civil ceremony, wedding reception and event an unforgettable experience.“

Andrea joins Doxford Hall straight from Leeds Metropolitan University where she has just completed a degree in Criminology.  

Like Sophie, Andrea has a wealth of hospitality work experience, having worked for venues such as Newton Hall and Revolution.

Andrea said: “My aim at all times is to provide the highest level of personal service to ensure a perfect occasion is individually tailored for the customer. Doxford Hall is a very special place and I am especially looking forward to helping to organise a range of outdoor summer events on behalf of the hotel.“ 

Mark Booth, general manager at Doxford Hall, said: “We are delighted to have both Sophie and Andrea on board here at Doxford.  They join our already busy sales team in our sixth year of business.  We pride ourselves on attention to detail, quality and offer each person a tailor made service.“

Sean Langston, Flame Heating Spares

North East trade supplies firm Flame Heating Spares has appointed Sean Langston to run its new branch in South Shields

Sean has 15 years of experience in the industry, having started working for a nationwide organisation at the age of 17 as a warehouse assistant. By the age of 21, he was a manager, before becoming the firm’s North East network manager.

Flame has appointed Sean as its operations director for the newly-opened trade counter on the Rekendyke Industrial Estate. 

The role includes Sean taking a financial stake in the business of the branch, something which is encouraged by Flame’s founder and Managing Director, John Savage.

Sean said: “I’ve known John through the industry for a long time and have seen him grow the business to three branches in three years. This is a very exciting opportunity for me to be a part of this business and to not only run a branch, but to have a stake in its success.

“To be able to do this in my home town is fantastic and I am very happy to be working with John and the team, including my dad, as the business gets established in South Shields.“

Simone Arcucci & Paul Bussey, Slaley Hall

County Durham luxury hotel Slaley Hall has appointed Simone Arcucci and Paul Bussey.

Simone Arcucci joins Slaley Hall as deputy general manager from Amigo Hotel in Belgium, where he held the position of Rocco Forte Hotels food and beverage director.  

Simone said: “I have a strong food and beverage background so I am really looking to strengthen the team here at Slaley with my experience.  We are really looking to grow on this side of our already successful business and take it to the next level.“

Paul Bussey has accrued a wealth of experience since completing his pProfessional Catering NVQ Level 1 & 2 at Darlington Technology College.  

Paul joins Slaley Hall from Rockliffe Hall Hotel where he was awarded two AA Rosettes for The Orangery Restaurant.  

Paul has also worked in the highly prestigious Jumeirah Lakes Towers in Dubai where he held the position of Head Chef.  

Paul has excelled in the culinary industry and has won awards such as Winner of the Unilever Food Solutions Senior Chef of the Year Competition 2012 for the Middle East. 

Paul said: “I believe a great emphasis of a menu should be on locally produced ingredients to prepare food to the highest standards.  My key aim will be to really cement Slaley Hall’s reputation as an amazing award winning place to come and eat, by working closely with what is already a first class team and tapping into Simone’s experience.“

Grant MacKenzie, general manager of Slaley Hall, said: “We are delighted to have both Simone and Paul on board at Slaley Hall.  We are continually looking at ways to invest in the hall, to really drive it to the next level and to retain its position as number one destination hotel in the area, and we are keen to develop the culinary offerings to our guests.“

Mark Morley, Niven Architects

Mark Morley has joined the management team at Darlington-based family firm Niven Architects.

He follows the appointment of senior consultant Peter Hodges who joined as a director as the practice.

A senior architect with some of the North-East’s premier schemes under his belt, Mark will help the management team oversee a varied portfolio of significant projects including, in Darlington, an in-patient unit at the town’s St Teresa’s Hospice, a major cinema and restaurant development next to the Town Hall and a much-needed housing scheme on the edge of town, as well as projects in Newcastle and Durham.

Director Simon Crowe said: “Mark’s key, strategic appointment is the first of a number of design roles that we hope to make. We have developed a business plan aligned with current and prospective workload that will see the practice grow in stature and turnover during the next three years.

“Mark’s role is fundamentally important to the growth plan as he brings with him a wealth of experience in design and project delivery alongside a very strong and respected relationship with key clients.“

Mark said: “It’s an exciting time for the practice with Niven currently involved in a number of really interesting projects. The practice is at the cutting edge of the newest advancements in our industry with great emphasis on BIM technologies and it has recently completed a two-year Knowledge Transfer Programme with Teesside University.

“I’m particularly looking forward to becoming involved in Niven Architect’s new company, BIM Strategies Ltd, which provides services to consultants, clients and the manufacturing supply chain.“

Tracey Lilburn, Maften Hall

Experience leisure manager Tracey Lilburn has been appointed to lead the team at the new Aqua Vitae Spa at Matfen Hall Hotel.

The privately owned 53-bedroom country house hotel recently unveiled the results of a £300k redevelopment of its spa and leisure facility, which will be managed by Tracey.

In a career spanning 20 years Tracey, from Newcastle, has not only worked for some of the region’s most prestigious venues but has also won a string of national awards, for performance and training.

Tracey, who is a former lecturer at Newcastle College, will now lead a 21-strong team tasked with providing the highest standard of service at the Aqua Vitae spa and promoting it to residents and non-residents alike.

She said: “It really is an exceptional spa and I aim to bring all my experience and training to bear, in making it the region’s foremost spa and leisure facility,“

General manager Bernard Bloodworth: “The Aqua Vitae spa is undoubtedly a jewel in Matfen Hall’s crown,

“So it is only fitting that we have one of the industry’s most experienced professionals at its helm.“

John Seager, Siglion

Siglion has appointed a chief executive to drive forward its ambitious £100 million-plus programme to transform Sunderland.

John Seager joins the Sunderland City Council and Carillion joint venture company, for which Igloo Regeneration is providing development, asset and fund management, from his post as a director of UK Land Estates.

During his 13 years with UKLE he was responsible for the development of schemes at Team Valley, Newburn Riverside and Newcastle City Centre and worked on a number of public-private partnerships which will be a key element of Siglion’s remit.

Mr Seager will be responsible for managing the development of five major sites including the former Vaux Breweries site, Seaburn and Chapel Garth.

He will also oversee the asset management of Siglion’s investment portfolio to enhance its value and generate social, economic and environmental benefits for the city.

Mr Seager said: “The post’s appeal was the opportunity to have such a huge impact on Sunderland.

“Some key, high profile sites are part of the portfolio and my experience to date means I can contribute to their transformation.

“It’s also a real opportunity to do something that will be personally rewarding. I’m aware of Igloo’s track record, core values and the way they approach development. It’s really inspiring stuff.”

 “The intention is that development is funded by the private sector and we are positioning Siglion to attract investment into Sunderland.

“Siglion is a forward-thinking partnership. Our approach is underpinned by sustainable development and good design to create a platform for new jobs, to boost the local economy and have a successful impact on the environment in the long term.

“Our approach is very much about involving the community and taking that input into the development process. The people at Siglion live and work in the region and we have a vested personal interest in seeing the success of these projects for many years to come.”

Ken Campling, Bannatyne Fitness

Bannatyne Fitness has appointed Ken Campling as its new Finance Director.   

A qualified accountant, Ken brings a strong retail background and exceptional commercial acumen to the role.

Ken has overseen the growth of several well-known brands including Williams Music and the Clinkard Group and most recently was head of Finance at Delima Limited, part of the Sports Direct Group 

Ken Campling said:  “I am pleased and proud to be joining such a successful and prestigious company.

“Having worked for Sir Tom Hunter and Mike Ashley I am well-trained to be able to work for a ‘Dragons Den’ entrepreneur! Duncan and the management team have made me very welcome and I am looking forward to a very positive future.“

Duncan Bannatyne said:  “Ken is well versed in the consumer sector and has an excellent track record of delivering profits, managing acquisitions and growth and streamlining and improving accounting systems.

“He will be an excellent addition to the senior team at Bannatyne’s.“

Polly O’Malley, Ward Hadaway

Polly O’Malley has been appointed as an associate to law firm Ward Hadaway.

Ward Hadaway, which has offices in Newcastle, Leeds and Manchester, has appointed Pollyto advise on a wide spectrum of employment issues, from recruitment and pre-retention matters through to dismissal as well as contested tribunal cases and issues arising from the enforcement of post termination restrictive covenants.

She has particular expertise in the education sector where her experience includes advising on appraisal and performance management, admissions and appeals, exclusions and Special Education Needs issues.

Polly also provides legal advice on restructuring and redundancy, performance-related pay, national terms and liaising with trade unions on collective bargaining issues.

Polly said: "It is great to be joining Ward Hadaway. Much of my work is about helping schools and academies of all types deal with employment and HR issues so it is terrific to be joining a firm with such a strong reputation for its employment and education expertise.

"I am looking forward to working with my colleagues in helping schools and academies deal with a wide range of different issues."

Graham Shaw, partner and head of education at Ward Hadaway, said: "We are delighted to welcome Polly to the team.

"Polly is highly respected by schools and academies and so her energy, experience and expertise will be of great benefit to the growing list of schools and academies we work with.

"Her recruitment, together with our existing team, gives us real strength in depth when it comes to employment and HR issues right across the education sector."

Jennifer Jordan, The TTE Technical Training Group

The TTE Technical Training Group has appointed Jennifer Jordan to a newly-created role in its sales team to support the company’s international development.

Jennifer has been appointed as technical sales assistant and will work alongside TTE’s sales managers to establish and maintain relationships with key players in industry.  

Jennifer, from Middlesbrough, joins after graduating from Sheffield Hallam in 2013 and is fluent in the latest marketing strategies and event management strategies.

TTE, which is based in Middlesbrough, delivers skills development programmes in the engineering, oil & gas, process, chemical and manufacturing sectors as well as designing, operating and managing technical training facilities overseas in locations such as Azerbaijan, Ghana and Oman.    

Jennifer said: “TTE is a well-respected company with a reputation second to none. I am extremely proud to have been chosen to continue the quality work it does and look forward to applying the skills I’ve acquired at university.“

Alan Wallace, UK & European technical training manager at TTE, said: “Jennifer will be a real asset to the company and is already an integral member of our team.

“It’s great to be able to welcome such a young talent with fresh ideas who will help expand our reach.“ 

Yorkshire recruitment specialist Stafforce Recruitment is expanding its national branch network by four new offices, including two in its South Yorkshire heartland.

The business, which is headquartered in Rotherham but has a 28-strong network of branches and on-site operations stretching from the North of Scotland via London to Chichester on the south coast, will launch the new operations in Sheffield, Doncaster, Wolverhampton and Docklands in London in January.

The move extends Stafforce Recruitment’s presence into the West Midlands for the first time, doubles its operations in the capital and significantly strengthens the company’s position in the Yorkshire region.

Stafforce Recruitment previously had offices in Doncaster and Sheffield but consolidated its South Yorkshire operations during the recession as the region was hit by heavy job losses.

Stafforce Recruitment founder and chairman Nick Cragg said that with demand for workers now growing across all regions of the UK, it was the right time to put the company’s expansion plans into action.

He said: “Growing the Stafforce Recruitment brand on a national basis has been on the agenda for some time but with economic uncertainly blighting the UK and Europe over recent years, we needed to pick the right time to do it.

“We have seen demand for staff increase across the majority of sectors we service and that seems as if it is set to continue, so we believe that now is the time.

“We have some really fantastic people heading up our new offices with many years of recruitment experience between them. I’m extremely excited by the expansion, which is the first of a number we have planned over medium term.“

“There are a lot of exciting investment projects in South Yorkshire at the moment and our ambition is to be involved in those and to play our part in ensuring the economic potential of the region is realised.

“To do that without a strong local presence would be difficult, we need to be part of South Yorkshire’s respective business communities so that is why it is important for us to launch these new offices now.

“But the same goes for London and Wolverhampton. We want to capitalise on the upturn in these areas also so need to be truly integrated into the community to enable that to happen.“

Liam Gallagher’s fashion label reported sales were up 40% compared to the same period last year.

Pretty Green, is set to open a second Manchester store during 2015.

The company said online revenues were up 41% thanks to record number of visits during the six weeks up to December 2014.

It also saw success from overseas sales which were up 34%, particularly in Japan.  

Chief executive Richard Ralph said: “We are particularly pleased with our record performance over the Christmas period, but also for the whole first quarter of this financial year.

“We have seen positive trading across all our channels to market continue over the entire three month period, with record sales in the last six weeks to the end of December.

“We believe our results are testament to the strength of our brand both in the UK and Japan, where we already operate five stores.

“The Pretty Green team has been extremely busy and our expansion programme remains on track.

“In the first quarter, we opened two new London stores and announced the launch of six concessions in House of Fraser.

“We will continue to look to expand the brand during 2015, both in the UK and internationally, and remain very confident we will continue to deliver strong growth for the future,“ according to the Manchester Evening News.

Image source: Images_of_Money

Leeds’ The LNT Group has reported a turnover increase of 19% to £90.6 million in its 2013-14 accounts, which were published this week.

The fixed assets of the Group have also increased in value by £8.3 million in 2013-14.  

Demand for LNT Construction’s Turn of Key care homes has escalated, securing an impressive forward pipeline of development with both new and repeat purchasers.  

Ideal Carehomes continues to invest into the business and now has over 2,000 beds across the UK.  

Their mature estate of care homes maintains market leading occupancy rates at an average of 96%, which reflects the consistent quality of care provided throughout their homes.

Matt Lowe, commercial director of the LNT Group, said: “The LNT Group is proud to be an award-winning business, creating local jobs in Yorkshire and expanding skills in the key sectors of construction, engineering and manufacturing.  

"Having secured a 10 year debt facility with Legal and General of £51m for our care homes business in 2014, we have a fantastic platform to keep growing the Group.  

"We’re very pleased with the performance post 2013-14 accounts and expect 2015 to be an exciting year for us.“

Scarborough Jobmatch are celebrating this week after reaching another fantastic milestone; successfully helping their 500th person back into employment just 20 months after the start of the project.

As the recruitment partner of choice for the Middle Deepdale Development project in Eastfield, both Kebbell Homes and Keepmoat homes were fast to appoint new temporary staff for their developments.

The 500th placement was for a labourer for Kebbell Homes, Oliver Rank, who upon returning from working offshore was keen to get involved with the Eastfield development. The regeneration project will see 44 acres of land transformed into 1,350 new homes, an extra care complex, a primary school, community hall, small scale retail provision and public open spaces, creating a new community near Scarborough.

Oliver said “After seeing a post on the Scarborough Jobmatch Facebook page, I called to ask for some more information about the Labourer position with Kebbell Homes. Within twenty-four hours, I had an interview arranged and had been offered the role, starting two days later.“

Mike Mulligan, Northern Development Director, said “We are delighted to have Oliver as part of our northern team, as he has made an impressive contribution and is already working very hard in his new role.

"Oliver was selected from three possible candidates, not only because of his qualifications and experience, but because of his ‘can do’ attitude and optimistic personality, which made him an ideal colleague to fit into the Kebbell Homes team at Middle Deepdale.

“While this project is still very much in its infancy, we are pleased to already be making a difference to the local community and local people like Oliver.“

Scarborough Jobmatch offer support to overcome barriers to employment or to those simply looking for a change in career. Jobmatch are also fast becoming the recruitment partner of choice for permanent and temporary placements with a wide range of businesses across Scarborough and surrounding areas.

Scarborough jobmatch is based both on St Nicholas Street in Scarborough and on Eastfield High Street.

East Lancashire printing services firm Text Styles UK is generating powerful growth, while keeping profitability on track, thanks to Boost Business Lancashire’s Growth Mentoring programme.

The family-run business is also working with Nelson & Colne College to recruit two more apprentices in addition to its seven-strong workforce, which already includes two apprentices.

Colne-based Text Styles UK started life in the garage of Barry Jordan, father of current managing director Tom Jordan.

Since then the business has grown significantly and now offers a comprehensive range of printing services for the business and consumer markets.

Text Styles UK specialises in printing logos, designs, photos and images on products ranging from signs and vehicle graphics, to branded work wear and promotional gifts.

Boost Business Lancashire is the £7.2 million Lancashire Business Growth Hub, offering free and part-funded business support to ambitious and growing businesses.

Delivered by Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, and supported by £3.6 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), it aims to grow Lancashire’s economy by £20 million and create at least 1,200 new jobs and safeguard 700 more by 2015.

Tom said: “We needed support in planning future growth. The business had increased turnover by 34 per cent during the last financial year, and with help from my growth mentor, Kathryn Gilliam, we have been able to increase capacity while keeping profit margins on track.

“Kathryn helped us to develop plans to handle increased sales, increase profitability, improve product development and maintain control of the business while undergoing expansion.”

“As a result we have implemented planned expansion through a thorough understanding of the market, introduced a production planning strategy and safeguarded margins and profitability.”

“We enjoyed every aspect of the Boost experience. Listening to our mentor giving us independent views on our business has been extremely refreshing.

“This advice and support has given us extra confidence to push on with our ambitious plans and we have created numerous process flow charts, plus a growth orbit that has immediately improved our order procedure.”

HR recruitment specialist Paul Duffield has completed a management buyout of Better Placed HR Recruitment, rebranding the consultancy to become Eyzon Ltd.

Leeds-based Eyzon Ltd is headed up by Paul in new Leeds offices at Marshall’s Mill and Matt Brooks, partner in their London offices at Chancery Lane.

Co-founder of Better Placed HR, Paul, who bought the minority shareholding for an undisclosed sum said: “The rebrand from Better Placed HR to Eyzon is an exciting step for us, however, the only real changes that clients and candidates will notice are the new name, Eyzon Ltd and the move for our Leeds team to great new offices at Marshalls Mill.“

Matt added: “We still have the same team, the same client and candidate networks and same ethos as before, but this represents a great opportunity for us to focus, develop and grow our business across the UK and overseas.“

Image source: George Amaro

A Preston-based horticultural firm has invested in upskilling its workforce thanks to help from a £5.6 million skills programme being delivered across the county.

Lovania Nurseries has received help from the Lancashire Skills Support for the Workforce (LSS) programme to enable one of its staff members to access management training at Myerscough College.

Lovania Nurseries is one of the largest growers in the area, supplying around 30 million plants to over 1,200 businesses every year.

LSS will support 3,817 employees aged 19 and over who are working in small or medium sized businesses and have a workforce of up to 250 employees.

It will run until July 2015, with places allocated to businesses on a first-come, first-served basis. The fund operates across the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area, which consists of Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen local authorities.

Head of growing at Lovania Nurseries, Peter Booth, said: “There are all kinds of career opportunities in the horticultural industry and investing in training and developing our workforce of the future means we are sowing the seeds of the sectors success.

“Lavonia Nurseries employ over 70 full time staff and up to 100 casuals during the summer to keep up with demand so it’s important that everyone works together as a team and looks to improve all the time.“

Image source: darrenprice187

The diversity of the range of independent shops available in Stockton Town Centre is growing, thanks to a new pop-up shop in the town’s Enterprise Arcade.

The space is available to rent on a short-term basis to budding entrepreneurs interested in test trading their retail ideas.

One of the first traders to take advantage of the new facility is Darren Hughes who moved his saddlery and leather goods business into the Enterprise Arcade this week.

Darren retrained in saddlery after an accident at work meant he could no longer work within the construction sector.  

He has had an interest in saddlery and leather craft for many years, making items for friends and family who have encouraged him to develop his talent into a business venture.

Darren will be carrying out saddlery repairs as well as selling saddles and other items including belts, dog collars and walking sticks throughout this week and next.

Another pop-up trader is already getting ready to follow in his footsteps.  Derek Slark Fine Arts Gallery will set up shop in the Arcade in a few weeks offering Stockton shoppers original oil, water colour and acrylic paintings.

35-37 High Street has been renovated and refurbished using funding from Stockton Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund through Stockton’s ‘Grants for Heritage Buildings’ scheme.

Darren said: “The Enterprise Arcade is a striking building which will naturally attract shoppers so I am really looking forward to trading there. It is an excellent way for me to build up a by customer base by taking advantage of the passing trade at the heart of Stockton Town Centre.“

Stockton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, Councillor Mike Smith, said: “Through the Enterprise Arcade we want to support as many new, independent businesses as possible to establish themselves as a viable and robust business in Stockton Town Centre.

“The pop-up shop is a fantastic opportunity for people to test their ideas in a real shop environment and take their first step into town centre trading.“

Image source: Images_of_Money

London-based customer engagement agency, Indicia, has been acquired by marketing services company Charterhouse, as the business looks to continue strengthening its marketing services proposition.

Charterhouse operates across 35 markets, was acquired by global giant Konica Minolta in 2012.

Indicia will join the Konica Minolta group, which operates globally with over 40,000 employees.

Ian Stockley, MD, Indicia said: “Joining forces with Charterhouse is an exciting time for Indicia. The explosion of digital and social means there has never been a more exciting and challenging time to work within the marketing space.  

"There are great synergies between the companies, which, with the backing of Konica Minolta, will deliver new opportunities and prospects to deliver future growth.“

Gary Mahoney, CEO, Charterhouse said: “Our clients are looking for complete solutions and with the acquisition of Indicia, Charterhouse will be able to deliver on this aim. The two companies have very similar cultures and share an entrepreneurial spirit that has seen both companies achieve year on year growth”

Warrington is the first city out of a list of 64 for employment in the UK.

The Centre for Cities has published its annual health check of UK cities, Cities Outlook 2015 which establishes Warrington as the top city for employment.

The document is an economic index of the 64 largest cities and towns in the UK.

The report states that the strongest performance among cities in North West is seen among its smaller cities with Warrington in particular standing out, with a business stock change of 29%, over twice the average for UK cities, and a 6%  growth in jobs despite the recession.

Warrington is classified as a ‘city’ in the report by population.

Warrington has a steady presence in the top twenty for all measured criteria.

It was ranked 1st out of 64 cities for the highest percentage of employment per population with 79.8% of its population in employment.

It also came 4th in terms of private to public sector ratio.

Suggesting that the jobs market within Warrington is not solely reliant on public sector employment but has a healthy range of private sector employers

Leader of Warrington Borough Council, Terry O’Neill, said, “Today’s report shows that Warrington continues to lead the North West region and indeed the rest of the UK, most notably this time in terms of employment.

“Ensuring the people of Warrington are able to get jobs is a key objective of this local authority.

“We are pleased that once again Warrington continues to set the pace for the North West region and in certain areas outperforms most of the UK”.