Business

Productivity increases at local factory thanks to LED lighting

11th December 2018

Productivity has increased at a Dronfield factory because its new LED lighting has helped re-energise its workforce.

Elkem in Dronfield found that the mood of the manufacturing staff in the factory changed when it switched from standard low bay to modern LED because they are now working in a bright environment.

The changeover was supplied by Chesterfield company Recon Electrical, who are specialists in low carbon energy.

Russ Gratton (right), Director of Recon Electrical, said: “The benefits of LED are clear, it saves energy and, consequently, money but it can also make staff more efficient.”

“Developers are also working on humancentric lighting – with panels which change from cooler bright light during the day to dimmer, warmer light in the evening. ”

“Cool white light makes the brain think it is the middle of the day so personal energy increases but for those who work late at night, lights can automatically dim down so staff who go home late will find their brains will be wanting to go to sleep straight away instead of being wide awake.”

Mr Gratton added: “We know that LED helps businesses in terms of cost because we transferred the lighting in our own warehouse and it had paid for its own installation in just over 18 months. Thereafter, there is a straightforward benefit in terms of up to 90 per cent reduction in lighting energy bills.”

Ian Goodwin, Maintenance Manager at Elkem Dronfield Limited, said: “We have had our lighting in our factory changed from HQI 400 Watt low bays to LED 200 Watt fittings with daylight dimming. This has made a dramatic effect on the feel of the building, the mood of the staff and productivity.”

In addition, the previous running costs were nearly £3,500 per year but, with the new LED fittings, the bill is down to £795.

Recon Electrical is moving fast with developments in energy efficiency thanks partly to support from the Low Carbon Business Network – a project hosted by the University of Derby and part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

Mr Gratton said: “It has helped us become more engaged with other companies – and work with other potential suppliers.”

“We are now working a lot with electric vehicle charging and run training courses for those companies who want to look at installation of EV charge points. We work with GRE Energy Training which offers an accredited course for electric vehicle charging. This will be a massive growth area over the coming years.”

“The Holy Grail is generating power and being able to store it, convert it and use it. But who knows what the next five years will bring. We just want to make sure we are at the forefront of innovation.”

Dr Fred Paterson, the University of Derby’s project lead for the Low Carbon Business Network, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to link such a go-ahead company as Recon Electrical with others in the field.”

“They are another example of a small Derbyshire company which is pushing the boundaries to help businesses become more energy-efficient to the benefit of their staff and the bottom line.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Made in Chesterfield

Further sales announced at Markham Vale’s Wilson Business Park

10th December 2018

Commercial Property Partners LLP (CPP) has completed a further three deals in the last two months at Wilson Business Park, the flagship business park which forms part of the wider Markham Vale regeneration area.

GB Bespoke Joinery has purchased a 2,300 sq ft unit on the site which will form its new HQ, where it will manufacture joinery products for its nationwide contract projects.

Lee Gent, from GB Bespoke Joinery said: “The quality of the units at Wilson Business Park is outstanding, and the surrounding transport links mean excellent access to the surrounding cities, and beyond. We are looking forward to moving into our unit and continuing to grow our business.”

LTEK Systems, who manufacture control systems, has purchased Unit 11, totalling 1,250 sq ft, and motorcycle expedition company Globebusters have also secured a unit of the same size. A further unit has been purchased by a private investor and subsequently let to Switch Electrical Supplies.

The latest occupants to the scheme join the wider Markham Vale site, alongside businesses including Direct Track Solutions, Shotblast Solutions, Magpie Beauty & Catering Projects – negotiated by CPP earlier this year.

With three further units under offer, this leaves just two units available, of 2,200 & 3,050 sq ft. Priority Space is also building a further 15,000 sq ft standalone unit on nearby Greaves Close, which is close to completion and being offered for sale by CPP.

Stuart Waite, Partner at CPP commented: “We are delighted to have completed further sales, and additional lettings, on the park, demonstrating a resilient demand for small industrial units, especially those that are available to buy.”

“The site is now well-established as ideal premises for any business looking for accommodation in the region – and boasts an exceptional location and key transport links. We’d encourage anyone who is interested in space at Wilson Park to contact us directly.”

Markham Vale benefits from its own M1 motorway junction, Junction 29a, and is just five miles east of Chesterfield and approximately 20 miles from Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Made in Chesterfield

Charities share Chamber’s fundraising efforts

10th December 2018

Three charities have been named as beneficiaries of fundraising efforts by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) in 2019. Chamber President Kevin Harris announced them at the Chamber’s Christmas Lunch on Friday.

They are CHICKS, SkillForce and Twenty Twenty, all three of which work to improve the lives of children and young people.

At next year’s Christmas Lunch, each will receive an equal share of £1,932.31 raised at this year’s event in addition to any other money raised by the Chamber’s efforts throughout the year.

At this year’s Christmas Lunch, the three charities nominated last year – Rhubarb Farm, Leicester and Leicestershire Animal Aid and Hope Against Cancer – each received a one-third share of £3,615.

The Chamber’s charity activities are managed by the East Midlands Chamber Charitable Fund, which was set up in 2016 and is administered by the Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation.

Kevin said: “It gave me great pleasure to present three very worthwhile charities with much-needed donations and also to name three more charities to which the Chamber will donate next year.”

“Charities rely on donations for their survival and whether it is a large or small amount I would encourage businesses to take part in events that help to raise money for them.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Visiting

New investor brings 60 jobs to Chesterfield

6th December 2018

I-Grunwerg, an award-winning supplier of houseware and catering products, is moving its operations to the former Franke Sissons site in Chesterfield.

The family-owned business, which has a turnover of £10 million, specialises in the design and distribution of premium stainless steel products including cutlery, tea ware, serving ware, tableware, kitchen utensils, cookware, kitchen knives, bar ware, and scissors.

It will move to the Sheepbridge Industrial Estate in May 2019 once refurbishment work on the former Franke Sissons building has been completed.

The move has been welcomed by Councillor Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council leader, who said: “We are really pleased that I-Grunwerg has decided to become one of our tenants on the Sheepbridge Industrial Estate.

“It is great that the former Franke Sissons site is back in use and providing job opportunities for Chesterfield residents.

“I-Grunwerg sells products through some of the biggest names in retail, including Harrods, Selfridges, John Lewis, House of Fraser, Waitrose, Lakeland and Costco, as well to catering businesses and restaurants. They also sell products online across the globe.

“So to get a company of that stature locating in the borough is a vote of confidence in Chesterfield. They will add to the growing number of leading companies who are located in the borough at sites like Sheepbridge Industrial Estate and Markham Vale.”

The company has received the support of the council’s economic development team to help it relocate to the area.

Igrunwerg Owner Ben Grunwerg said: “Our main focus is stainless steel kitchen equipment and we have a particular specialism in quality kitchen knives.

“We were attracted to Chesterfield because it is next to the M1, which as a distribution business is great for us. There are good local facilities here and the fact that Chesterfield is going to get HS2 is important as a lot of our customers are based down in London.

“We were also impressed with the development plans for Chesterfield, like the Northern Gateway scheme, which show the town has a bright future.”

The company will be relocating most of its existing workforce from Sheffield to Chesterfield but expects there to be some job opportunities for Chesterfield residents next year and then further roles in the future as the company looks to expand.

Ben added: “Half the jobs here will be warehouse roles and then in the offices we will have a full mix of staff in sales, accounting, operations, marketing, product design and graphic design.”

Refurbishment work to the former Franke Sissons building is already underway to create the company’s offices; a showroom for customers and business clients; research and development and product testing areas; distribution warehouse areas where products will be stored, packed and then sent out for delivery; and staff recreation facilities.

There is also space on the site where the company can expand and build additional warehouses in the future.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development

Patients and staff help to create Chesterfield hospital’s new website

6th December 2018

Over the last few months patients and staff from Chesterfield Royal Hospital have contributed to a new and improved website that made its appearance earlier this week.

The site retains its address – www.chesterfieldroyal.nhs.uk – providing a host of up to date information on a range of services based at the hospital and in the community. It’s been designed taking patient and staff feedback into account, to make it easier for users to find what they need quickly, easily and all within the recommended ‘three clicks’ or less.

Head of Communications Sarah Turner-Saint says: “We’re thrilled with the results and have been working very closely with Frank Design to come up with a site that is easy to use and looks clean and modern. Unlike our old site this one now automatically adapts to mobile devices – so anyone logging on via their phone or tablet will see a huge difference. It’s a much more colourful and interactive experience for anyone wanting to find out more about our hospital.”

Sarah added: “This site is for everyone who might be coming into hospital, who wants to comment on their experiences or care and treatment, or who might be interested in working for us – so we need to know it functions well and gives them what they need.”

“We are excited about the new launch of the Chesterfield Royal NHS Trust public facing website” said Jamie Wise, Managing Director Frank Health, “our dedicated team at Frank collaborated closely with the Chesterfield team to deliver a high quality website, beautifully designed and built to an exceptional standard.”

The Trust is welcoming more feedback on how the site now it’s up and running – from how information is accessed, to what’s included on the pages. The new website can be found at: www.chesterfieldroyal.nhs.uk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development

Arvato supports local young people through digital skills training partnership

5th December 2018

Arvato’s team in Chesterfield has backed a training initiative designed to equip young people in the region with digital skills.

As part of Arvato’s sponsorship of the Digital Advantage project, which took place at DCAS Chesterfield, they have supported twelve 16-18-year olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) to improve their employability and digital skills. The best performing students have been offered work placements at leading companies across the region.

Digital Advantage is a pop-up digital agency, run by The White Room who provide training and apprenticeships for companies working in or with digital media. The agency captures the energy of the digital revolution that is sweeping around the world to bring industry trainers, work experience and digital skills into colleges or schools.

They were supported by industry leaders who guided them in the development of a prototype digital business, website and video pitch to a panel of experts. The various tasks support the students to deepen their understanding of digital businesses and learn how to successfully break into the industry.

Arvato has previously sponsored the scheme in Sefton, offering work placements to two young people taking part in the initiative to help kick-start their careers.

Damon Bruce, Head of Operations at Chesterfield, Arvato UK & Ireland, said: “Creating opportunities for young people in our local area is really important to us, helping them unlock digital talent and developing skills that will be crucial to the success of businesses up and down the UK. The Digital Advantage scheme is a fantastic initiative that helps the participants to develop their creative and digital knowledge and translate this into a work environment.”

“After the success of the scheme in Sefton we’re excited to see the results of the Chesterfield project. We’ll be following the project closely as we look out for the next generation of talent in the digital world.”

For more information on the Digital Advantage programme please click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development

East Midlands Chamber named Chamber of the Year at BCC Awards

4th December 2018

East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) has secured one of the most significant and highly-sought accolades in business.

In a night of celebration at the prestigious British Chambers of Commerce Business Awards, held in London, it was East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) that won the overall Chamber of the Year title, sponsored by Quest.

Now in its 15th year, the national Chamber Business Awards is one of the showpiece events in the business calendar, highlighting the role of business in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local communities.

The Chamber was also joined on the night by four member companies – Dalycom, Shirebrook Academy, Tidyco and trentbarton – which had gone on to enjoy regional success following their respective achievements at the Chamber’s Business Awards across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.

It has been a busy and productive 2018 for the Chamber which, as the leading business support organisation in the region, continues to dedicate itself to providing its members with a comprehensive and ever-evolving suite of products, services and information to help businesses succeed and thrive.

Reflecting on the award, Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) has shown impressive growth and retention in recent years. The strategic work and engagement of the Chamber with local stakeholders embodies the mission of Chambers of Commerce everywhere.”

“Its efforts to engage with other Chambers and improve member offerings is a testament to its dedication. Congratulations to the entire East Midlands team, truly worthy recipients of this award.”

Steve Charles, Head of Business Partnerships at award sponsor Quest, said: “Congratulations to East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), deserved winners of this prestigious award.”

“It is a great example of how a Chamber can make a significant contribution to the national network while also taking a leading and influential role in its own business community. It has developed a first-class service to members, which is witnessed by its continued growth. Well done to all the team.”

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), added: “To win Chamber of the Year is a fantastic achievement and a great endorsement of the extensive activity we deliver to our members across the region.”

“This acknowledgment is testament to the dedication and hard work shown by all the staff at the Chamber, who made this award possible by continuing to work tirelessly and passionately on behalf of our members to fulfil our overall objective – to enhance East Midlands businesses.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield

Staff survey by Peak Pharmacy shows teams feel empowered and motivated

4th December 2018

The latest staff survey completed by Peak Pharmacy has shown promising levels of engagement within its Pharmacy teams. Peak Pharmacy is a local, independent pharmacy chain owned by PCT Healthcare.

Having grown from one pharmacy in Chesterfield to now owning and managing over 120 pharmacies in the UK, PCT Healthcare now employs over 1,400 people, with Peak Pharmacy currently employing over 150 people across North East Derbyshire.

The survey of the Peak Pharmacy staff was used to identify where staff were performing well, and where management teams needed to listen to individuals to improve working environments.

The results have shown that a promising 93% of all staff surveyed wanted to give their best at work, whilst 88% of those surveyed felt that their roles positively affected people’s lives. The findings also revealed that 80% of those surveyed felt valued as individuals, which supports Peak Pharmacy’s family culture of empowering their staff and treating them as a priority.

Gill Watters believes that the firm is a strong role model within the town: “As an employee, I find PCT Healthcare has strong company values tied to strong family values, with employers who understand the need for work / life balance.”

“As an individual, I feel valued and that my opinion matters which is very important. All job roles are crucial to the success of the business and this is noted and regularly passed on to staff through meetings, newsletters and social gatherings.”

Director Joe Cattee stated: “In the current high street climate, and the ever growing pressures on the NHS, I’m proud that so many of our staff feel they are treated as individuals within the company, and they’ve identified that our patients & customers are benefiting from their roles. Community pharmacy is currently a changing environment, and we must now endeavour to use the recent findings to improve the conditions and ethos of our staff within the business, and continue to lead the way in supporting the local communities of Derbyshire.”

“I look forward to carrying out the survey again next year, and improving on this year’s results.”

Peak Pharmacy on Ashgate Road is one of the many Peak Pharmacy stores throughout Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield

Peak FM launches Give a Child a Smile campaign

4th December 2018

Peak FM has launched its Give a Child a Smile campaign, during which it is collecting new and unwrapped toys and gifts for underprivileged children across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Sam Fielding, Station Director at Peak FM said: “We are grateful that once again Peak FM can help to make a difference in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. Give a Child a Smile is the name of our Toy Appeal this year and we are relying on the generosity of local people and businesses to help us collect toys for children who may otherwise go without this Christmas. We are asking people to pick up just one extra new and unwrapped toy or gift when doing their Christmas shopping and donate it at one of our official drop off points. We’d love as many people as possible to get involved and donate.”

Toys and gifts are being sought for boys and girls in the following age categories;

0 – 12 months
12 months – 3yrs
3 – 5yrs
6 – 8yrs
9 – 12yrs
12 – 18yrs

Drop off points in Chesterfield are at Tesco Extra, Queens Park Sports Centre and the Healthy Living Centre in Staveley. The final date to drop off donations is the 18th December.

Toys and gifts will be collected from Peak FM by the local charities and organisations and distributed at Christmas. Charities and organisations can also apply here to be considered for toy and gift donations.

For more information click here.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Christmas, Leisure, Visiting

New Chesterfield housing development on sale soon

3rd December 2018

Work has commenced on an exclusive development of 2-, 3- and 4- bedroom bungalows off Newbold Road, which will be released for sale before Christmas.

Redbrik Estate Agents, which has offices in Chesterfield and Sheffield, will take the lead on showcasing new properties designed and built by Woodall Homes.

The Barlborough-based Woodall Homes team has been delivering desirable homes since 2011 and prides itself on providing a high specification to all of its homes.

Woodall Homes Managing Director Dave Wood is looking forward to teaming up with Redbrik. He said: “This is an exciting collaboration for both firms. Redbrik has an excellent reputation for its award-winning marketing, customer service and use of new technologies. These are just a few of the many driving factors behind the partnership.

“We have several new projects in the pipeline and will be working closely together to bring these to market.”

Redbrik Director Mark Ross added: “We are delighted to be collaborating with the talented team at Woodall Homes, which is dedicated to delivering modern homes to the region.

“Our New Homes marketing department continues to go from strength to strength, and with a combination of our expertise and Woodall Homes’ high-quality properties, we believe together we can help even more people find their perfect home.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Leisure

New Saltergate car park on schedule

29th November 2018

Saltergate’s new multi-storey car park has been confirmed as on track for its planned opening in late spring 2019.

Owned and operated by Chesterfield Borough Council, the new car park will serve shoppers, commuters and people staying at the new Premier Inn hotel at the former Co-op department store on Elder Way.

With 530 spaces, the car park will be open 24 hours and have wider spaces and more disabled spaces than the previous car park, which was demolished earlier this year. It will also have six electric vehicle charging points, with the option to add a further ten.

Access to the car park will be controlled by automated speed gates at vehicle entrance and exits, while people will only be able to come through pedestrian entrances by using their parking ticket. Councillor Terry Gilby, the council’s cabinet member for economic growth, says:-

“It’s good to see the progress that is being made on the new Saltergate car park.

“One of our key priorities is to grow the local economy and this new car park will offer much improved facilities for shoppers and commuters travelling into Chesterfield and I hope will encourage people to come into the town centre.”

As part of the construction process, a temporary road closure will be required on the eastbound side of Saltergate from the junction with Rose Hill East to the Holywell Cross (Donut) roundabout to enable a crane to lift the key car park parts in to place. Traffic will still be able to travel westbound from the roundabout down Saltergate and there will also be access to the businesses along Saltergate.

A road closure order will be in place between 14 January and 28 February, although it is hoped the work can be completed earlier than this if the weather is not bad.

A temporary one way diversion will be in place taking drivers from Saltergate, down Rose Hill East by the side of Chesterfield Town Hall, on to Rose Hill, Knifesmithgate and Cavendish Street before returning to Saltergate.

The new car park is part of the Northern Gateway development which will see the opening of the new Premier Inn Hotel and improvements on Knifesmithgate and Elder Way. A planning application has also been submitted to build an enterprise centre on part of Holywell Cross (Donut) car park. This will offer extra space for start-up and existing small and medium-sized businesses, which is particularly needed as the current innovation centres at Dunston and Tapton Park are almost running at capacity.

In each of these projects, the council has used local labour clauses meaning that, where possible, local businesses have been in the construction process, and in supplying materials.

In total, the Northern Gateway scheme is due to create around 500 new jobs. For more information visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/northern-gateway/.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Leisure, Visiting