Celebrate Chesterfield

Chesterfield Pride shortlisted for national award

The annual Chesterfield Pride Festival has been recognised amongst the best grassroots LGBTQ+ events across the UK.

The celebration, which takes place every year in Stand Road Park has been nominated for “Grassroots Pride of the Year Award” at the 2023 Pride Awards, hosted by LGBTQ+ radio station Gaydio.

To make it into the shortlist of finalists, Chesterfield Pride was nominated by the public, before being judged by an independent community panel, with members working across a variety of sectors both publicly and privately.

Chesterfield Pride is one of the biggest and best attended Pride events in the region, with thousands of people attending each year.

Dan Walker, organiser of Chesterfield Pride commented: “We are thrilled to be nominated for this award. Grassroot Pride events are vital for our communities and we really proud of the event we have in Chesterfield.

“Chesterfield Pride has grown year on year and 2022 saw our largest event yet. We are passionate about creating an event that is open to all areas of our community and always look to how we can improve going forward. Thank you once again to all those that took the time to nominate us for this award.”

The awards ceremony will take place on Friday, 10th February 2023 at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate. The evening will bring people from across the LGBTQ+ community together to recognize the extraordinary efforts to bring Pride to all corners of the UK across ten categories.

Chesterfield Pride is set to return on Sunday 23rd July 2023 for another packed day of entertainment. The Main Stage will have a variety of well known artists performing, including chart topping stars and faces from stage and screen. Meanwhile the Cabaret Stage will see some of the best of unsigned talent, fabulous Drag Queens and comedy performers.

Find out more about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-pride/

joe 1 Chesterfield Pride

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Launch your business in Chesterfield

Looking for a change in 2023? Or maybe you’ve got a big idea which you’re looking to get off the ground. Now is a great time to hit the launch button on your start-up business in Chesterfield.

From quality office spaces to superb support, the town has everything you need to get started.

Find out below about some of the town’s recent start-up success stories. We’ve also spoken to a range of advisors and business leaders in the town, to get their expert tips on getting started.

Getting started

Vision Derbyshire start-up support and grant scheme

Entrepreneurs in Chesterfield are getting a boost from an innovative business support scheme.

Vision Derbyshire provides them with tailor-made advice, guidance and funding to get their ideas off the ground.

It is open to people who live in Derbyshire, and want to bring their business idea to life. Its also open to people who have recently set up a new venture in the last twelve months.

A team of experts are in place to offer free and impartial advice and support tailored to your needs, including:

  • mentoring
  • business planning
  • financial planning
  • marketing
  • signposting to other suitable areas of support

Grant funding of up to 50% of total project costs to a maximum of £10,000 per applicant is available, subject to meeting eligibility criteria. Vision Derbyshire’s business advisers will guide you through the application process.

Networking opportunities and help in securing a wide range of services necessary to help entrepreneurs turn their venture into a success are also part of the support package on offer.

To find out more about the Vision Derbyshire scheme and request support email business@derbyshire.gov.uk with:

  • a brief description of your business venture or idea
  • your current status – idea stage, first 3-months of trading, 3 to 12-months trading
  • your contact details – name, address of your business, email, preferred telephone number

Vision Derbyshire is a collaboration of local authorities across Derbyshire which delivers priority projects which have a positive impact on people’s lives and achieve greater council efficiency. A funding pot of £550,000, which has been raised through Derbyshire’s involvement in the Government’s retained business rates pilot scheme, has been set aside to support start-ups in Derbyshire and Derby.

Get the information you need

Do you have a business idea that you would like to explore? Keen to start a business but not sure how? Or maybe you’ve recently started trading and want to make sure you have all the essential building blocks in place for your business to be successful.

East Midlands Chamber is hosting a Business Starter Workshop at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre on Tuesday, 31st January 2023, giving you the chance to gain vital knowledge and information on starting your company.

Find out more here.

Start-up success stories in Chesterfield

We’ve spoken to some of the town’s brightest entrepreneurs who have been supported to get their business moving by the Vision Derbyshire project. Could this be you in 2023?

Suzanne Lloyd – Suzanne Lloyd Consultancy

Virtual Assistance | Suzanne Lloyd Consultancy | Chesterfield (virtueva.co.uk)

New business owner Suzanne Lloyd worked in business and office management for over 15 years, but saw a gap in the market to start her own virtual assistance business. Suzanne hadn’t considered starting her own business previously but saw a clear opportunity of providing virtual services to small businesses.

She launched her business Virtue Virtual Assistance in 2021. The business offers friendly and bespoke Virtual Assistance, HR Management & Bookkeeping services, personalised to the needs of small businesses. Suzanne aims to be the staff member that every business needs but can’t necessarily afford on a permanent basis. She is highly organised and loves to plan.

Suzanne commented: “Getting to know a business like it’s my own, I can offer personalised and tailored support or assistance so that the organisation can focus on what’s important.

“I’m really proud of how far I have come in such a short time. I’ve had to push myself out of my comfort zone, but it’s so rewarding when I get new enquiries on the back of referrals from happy clients! Working alongside my Business Adviser has changed my whole mindset of what I, and my new business, can achieve. Sara has helped me to challenge my own perceptions of what opportunities I can seize.

“I would have to say for anyone thinking about it just to do it. Yes, it is a big leap and there is a lot of unknowns, however the positives have far outweighed the negatives for me. After being made redundant from my last two positions I finally feel in control. To feel appreciated every day is such a nice feeling. The flexibility and quality time it has given to my family has truly changed my life.”

Vicky Staniland – Blooms & Bantams

Blooms & Bantams – British Flowers, Flowers, Florist (bloomsandbantams.co.uk)

Vicky Staniland launched her dream business Blooms & Bantams in 2022 after growing and arranging flowers for her own wedding and spotting a gap in the market.

The business based in New Whittington, grows and sells British flowers locally. Sustainability is at the core of the business, selling directly to customers wanting gift bouquets or event flowers.

Additionally, offering workshops on growing and arranging, Blooms & Bantams also aims to teach the skills of growing and working with flowers to encourage people to take it up themselves.

Whether it be flowers for key calendar occasions, or wedding, funeral or corporate events, Vicky aims to provide a service that leaves customers with a new, or renewed appreciation of the beauty and bounty of British grown flowers.

Vicky said: “My business advisor, Sara, has been instrumental to the success of Blooms & Bantams’ first year. The advice I have received has always been constructive and has encouraged me to explore options and considerations that I would have likely ignored without prompt. These opportunities have encouraged me to develop connections and gain access to resources that have been incredibly useful in the first stages of starting a business.

“I have also received a grant from the Start Up Support scheme, which has allowed me to buy new raised beds. This additional space will allow me to increase my output volume and grow many more flowers for sale next year.

“I would urge any new business owner to seek the support of the Vision Derbyshire programme as it may help provide the information and guidance that is so useful during those first few months of trading.”

James Biltaji – MediGuard

MediGuard | The Smart Pillbox (themediguard.co.uk)

MediGuard is developing and building The MediGuard Smart Pillbox. A pillbox designed to help people on multiple prescription medication take their pills on time and keep their loved ones informed about their adherence.

In 2019, James’ Dad had to have a liver transplant and was going through the initial recovery stages. He was taking around 20 tablets a day and really struggled to take his medication on time.

James commented: “My brother and I tried to help as much as possible, however we couldn’t be there all the time. When we couldn’t be there two things would happen, he’d forget to take his medication, or on a couple of occasions he accidently double dosed. We looked for something that would keep us connected and informed through a mobile app, but there wasn’t anything that we could find. That’s where the vision for The MediGuard came into place.

“It all takes time to build something from nothing, but we’ve made tremendous progress over the last year.  We’ve been working hard on building the hardware and mobile application, as well as getting feedback from potential users on features and functionality of the product.

“One of the most valuable resources so far has been the free business support and advice from our Vision Derbyshire business advisor Sara Martin.  Sara has been helping us with anything we’ve not been sure about. She has pointed us in the direction to potential funding opportunities, events related to our business in the area and connecting us with universities and people that can help progress our business. Without her, half of the events and opportunities we have taken part in would have been missed.”

Jackie Smith – Aspire Export Solutions Ltd

As a student, Jackie gained experience working for a number of local businesses including Robinsons of Chesterfield and Bryan Donkins before studying Applied Languages at University in London.

Returning to Chesterfield in the late 80s, she considered setting up her own business as an export consultant. However, to gain more experience and develop her international business knowledge, Jackie chose to develop her career working for big businesses within international markets. Jackie’s most recent position was Engineering Products Director within the construction industry.

Jackie explained how she decided to start up her own venture: “Following the covid pandemic, I felt that it was time to follow my dream of setting up my own business. Whilst the ideas and thoughts behind the business were plentiful, I was nervous about setting up on my own.

“I have been able to access lots of support for new start- up businesses and also businesses looking to expand. This includes the DWP, D2N2, Scaleup 360 and the Local chamber of commerce. Sara Martin Start-up advisor from Vision Derbyshire has been particularly supportive.

“I have been signposted to a number of courses that have helped to expand my knowledge. I have also received individual support and mentoring on the various aspects of running your own business, including developing a brand. This has helped me move the business forwards and Aspire Export Solutions is launching in January 2023.

“So, for budding entrepreneurs thinking about starting up their own venture in the town I would highly recommend that you do not be hesitate. There is so much support available locally, and I feel that I am in a much better position with my new business. I am looking forward to its launch in the New Year.”

Hear from the Experts

We’ve been speaking to some of the leading business coaches and advisors in Chesterfield, to get their top tips on starting up in the town.

Banner Jones Solicitors

Chesterfield legal firm, Banner Jones Solicitors has roots in the town dating back to the 1800’s, providing a range of services, support and legal advice to businesses in the town.

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law commented: “Don’t be afraid to recruit staff. The world of Employment Law can be complex and it can make new business owners nervous about taking the plunge.

“Employing staff can be hugely beneficial to a business and can often be the catalyst for growth. It’s always worth remembering that ordinarily employees do not actually accrue unfair dismissal rights until they have 2 years’ continuous service. This takes away some of the initial pressure. If you do however employ someone and something does go wrong, there are plenty of resources available to help. Our team are only ever a phone call away.”

Great2

Andy Ball Great2

Andy Ball, CEO of Great2, has spent the last 12 years starting and scaling businesses across the East Midlands and was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year at the recent Love Chesterfield 2022 awards.

“Setting up a new business is daunting. There are so many competing demands for time. There are also many things to do where you have little experience to draw upon. For example, accounting, business operations, branding and marketing.

“One of the smartest decisions I made early on was to outsource those, to focus on growing the business. As well as supporting growth of the business, it also meant I got some down time at the weekends. It allowed me to pace myself and avoid the dreaded entrepreneurial burnout.

“I recognise the value of this advice so much that I have now built Great2. The purpose of Great2 is to support entrepreneurial success. We bring together a vibrant coworking space and meeting rooms (Great2Work) in central Chesterfield. This is alongside business growth services (Great2Grow) to help local small businesses grow in a sustainable way. I am always keen to meet start-ups and small businesses to see how we can help them.”

You can read more of Andy’s tips here

Business Doctors Chesterfield

Business Doctors

Dedicated to helping small and medium sized businesses achieve their goals, local Business Doctor Emily Coy works in partnership with business owners, sharing a wealth of business knowledge as well as providing individual expertise.

Emily said: “No business can survive without customers. It is therefore of vital importance to spend time deciding who your ideal customer will be. This will inform many other business decisions you make, especially around marketing. Ask yourself the following questions in order to create a customer profile; What is their age, gender, and location? What is their situation in life/business? Why will they buy from you? How often will they come back?”

SMH Group

Josh Dickens SMH Group

SMH Group has been established since 1995 and has been advising local Chesterfield businesses and individuals by providing in-depth expertise and insight into the complex financial, legal and tax matters which may impact their business, personal and family interests.

Business Development and Marketing Manager, Josh Dickens has this piece of advice for people looking to start their own business:

“You only get one start at your business, so its important that you get the right advice, from the right people, straight away.

“This could be speaking to an accountant who will help you structure your business in the most efficient way, speaking to a marketing agency to make sure that your branding, socials and website reflect the message you are trying to send, or speaking to an IT firm to make sure all of your software and systems are in place ready for your launch.”

CCM Change Cosultancy

CCM Change Consultancy is a business set up to support sustainable business transformation and provide an experienced, pragmatic, and innovative perspective on all aspects of change within the business setting.

Business Transformation Consultant, Nick Gorman explains how business owners should approach making their ideas a reality:

“For any complex or sizeable project, business leaders should analyse the biggest challenge within it and determine how/if they can overcome it before expending time and capital in the foothills.

“There is a place and time for gut feeling and intuition, but any idea that needs resources and investment requires the support of solid strategy.”

Great office space to suit all budgets

One Waterside Place

Chesterfield has a range of great office options to support you on every step of your business journey.

Regardless of your workspace requirements, our spaces accommodate co-working and hotdesking to spacious offices for a large team.

Find out more: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/office/

Join a network of like-minded local businesses

Celebrate Chesterfield Expo

Did you know you could gain marketing and business support, alongside the chance to build links with likeminded organisations?

There are now over 200 Chesterfield Champions working closely with Destination Chesterfield, hoping to to showcase our area as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Becoming a Chesterfield Champion is a great way to put your organisation on the map locally. It provides the opportunity to network with key business leaders in our town.

Find out more: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

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Global Brands Limited announces the purchase of the Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef brands

Global Brands Limited has announced its purchase of the Hooch, Hooper’s, and Reef trademarks from Molson Coors Beverage Company.

The brands have been produced and distributed by Global Brands since 2012 and will now form parts of its owned portfolio.

This sale to Global Brands will mean Global Brands own the brands and can now focus on them as part of their own portfolio with all the freedoms that brings.

Nino Beneta, Managing Director of Molson Coors Export and License EMEA & APAC said: “We are excited to see Global Brands progress in growing these brands over the last decade and look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of the Reef, Hoopers and Hooch brands going forward.

“Moving forward as an EMEA & APAC Export and License team our focus will continue to be on a select portfolio of key international brands such as Coors, Staropramen, Carling, Madri Excepcional and Blue Moon.”

Steve Perez, Chairman and Founder of Global Brands said: “We are delighted to welcome the Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef brands as fully-fledged members of the Global Brands family. This will give us the opportunity to invest further into the brands with the added security of owning the equity.

“We re-launched Hooch in 2012 at the Publican Awards with Keith Lemon and reinvigorated the brand, with new flavours and focus. Hooch is a staple of the RTD category sold by major retailers, and is a popular, well-loved brand. This deal will reinforce Global Brands’ position as the leading independent producer of RTD brands in the UK.

“We have lots of ideas for innovation and look forward to sharing these with the trade and consumers shortly. We have enjoyed a fantastic supportive relationship with Molson Coors over the years and look forward to continue working closely together through their route-to-market team. It’s an exciting start for GBL in 2023!”

Hooch, Hooper’s, and Reef join the expanding and popular Global Brands portfolio – which includes VK, the biggest RTD brand in the On Trade, Franklin & Sons, the 2nd biggest premium tonic brand in the On Trade, and All Shook Up, Shake Baby Shake, Beviamo, Kick Energy, Lustre, and Amigos Tequila Beer. Global Brands are the biggest branded supplier of packaged cocktails to the UK Off Trade (by volume).

Hooch has enjoyed huge growth with Global Brands since 2012. Recent NPD for Hooch under Global Brands includes the launch of Pink Hooch in 2020 – the most successful ready-to-drink NPD launch of the year4 – and the launch of Orange Hooch in the summer of 2022. Alongside the original, no nonsense alcoholic lemon brew Hooch, is the passion fruit and mango sidekick Hoola Hooch, and a range of Hooch spirits.

Global Brands supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Hooch Global Brands

 

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Chesterfield’s business community reflects on achievements made in 2022

2022 has been another year which has seen major progression across Chesterfield.

The town has seen several major regeneration projects completed, including the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, The Glassyard and One Waterside Place to name just a few.

Furthermore, work is beginning on a host of developments as we head into 2023 – with work continuing on the revitalisation of Chesterfield Town Centre, and seveal projects moving forward in Staveley thanks to the Town Deal funding.

Our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have shared their successes across the area, whilst looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2023.

“Chesterfield’s biggest achievement in 2022 has been its ability to continually receive large sums funding, which allows positive change to actually happen. Now we have secured funding, the vision can be realised, which benefits everyone in our town.

“My hope for Chesterfield in 2023, is for our town centre to be prioritised. Whilst we will see an increase in vacant properties, this presents us with opportunities to change its core purpose and uses, to create something new and exciting and re-define the traditional town centre model!”

Amy Revell, We Are Spaces

 

“We have seen real progression in 2022 on accessing funding and on key developments in and around Chesterfield. This has enabled the development of a platform from which the town can grow further in 2023. Going forward I am very much looking forward to seeing the redevelopment of the market in the town centre, I think this is key to the town’s success at adapting to the future retail landscape.”

Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive, NLT Training Services

“I feel our biggest success in Chesterfield is the way we have bounced back from the impact of Covid-19. Our communities, local businesses, and each of us personally have shown such resilience and there is a lot of positive change toward not letting even a global pandemic set us back.

“My hope is together we continue crafting a better future, working towards UN sustainability goals, strengthening new partnerships, and enacting change at a local level. I’m excited to be able to help shape this growth through Connect and Reflect – our shared learning sessions, I hope you’ll get involved.”

Jenny Raschbauer, Project Director of Community Chesterfield.

Jenny from DVA

“2022 has thrown many curveballs to businesses and families alike. It has been a period of change, recovery, and crisis. I believe Chesterfield’s greatest achievement is found in its ability to bounce back, to successfully galvanise businesses to work better, more collaboratively and with greater levels of support than ever before.

“I hope that we will continue to work closely together in both our businesses and within the wider communities. I hope that we can use 2022 as a benchmark for future growth and evolution, and that we will continue to build up the town and its people into a thriving place to live and work.

Graham Nash, BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax

“The determination of local businesses to keep going and keep trying, even when things are difficult has been brilliant to see in 2022. Instead of giving up, in such challenging times, I’ve witnessed small businesses being brave and bold, and taking risks to build businesses that create jobs and economic growth in our town.

“Looking to 2023, I would love to see full occupancy of retail space in our town centre. We have some great retail units, both new and old and it is sad to see them empty. Full occupancy would offer more choice for shoppers, contribute to increased footfall, and attract more visitors to our town.”

Emily Coy, Business Doctors – Chesterfield

Business Doctors

“The 10th Anniversary of the Tapton Lock Festival was our biggest achievement for Chesterfield in 2022. Organised with a wide range of community groups it was a truly diverse cultural event showcasing the best of Chesterfields creative and cultural communities.

“We hope that Chesterfield will continue to grow its cultural and creative assets in 2023 and recognise the amazing artists and creatives that work with communities across the town. We want Chesterfield to be recognised and celebrated for its creative people and cultural communities.”

Paul Steele, Managing Director, Junction Arts

“It has been wonderful to see commercial premises being built and used in 2022– in particular the Northern Gateway development.  This will encourage business into the town and create employment opportunities. In 2023 I hope to see retail and business growth in the town, taking advantage of the fantastic opportunities which Chesterfield has to offer.”

Catherine Wenborn, Vines Legal Ltd

“Chesterfield is a developing market town which boasts many historic features and landmarks to be enjoyed by all however, in the 2022 we have seen development of new buildings and renovations of existing buildings to meet the demands and progression of the town. We hope to continue to see development of the town, and this includes our move into the newly renovated Hayfield House in January 2023.”

Johnanna Brewer, Associate Solicitor, Family Law Group

“We loved celebrating the success of apprentices and employers within the local community at the Love Chesterfield Awards 2022. Looking to 2023, I hope that the unemployment rate in Chesterfield continues to fall and that employers continue to grow talent and invest in skills for their businesses and subsequently support the local community and economic growth within Chesterfield.”

Peter Roberts, DBC Training

“Chesterfield’s business community has, once again, proved how resilient it is. To have seen the growth and developments that we have during the year is testament to our ‘can do’ approach to everything.  This gives me optimism for 2023. I have no doubt the town and its business community will more than rise to all the challenges that are thrown at us and continue to prove the naysayers wrong.”

Anna Melton, In the Works PR

Anna Melton

“Despite the challenges the town has faced in 2022, the pace of construction – both in the private and public sector has not slowed down. In fact, it’s been one of the busiest years for DBCP! This shows that Chesterfield is a very investable town. Looking to 2023, I hope to see more developments coming out of the ground. This will show, once again, that Chesterfield is a town that refuses to stand still and, instead, looks forward and invests in the future of the people who live and work here.”

David Pratt, Building Control Manager, DBCP

Derbyshire Building Control Partnership

“The opening of the Enterprise Centre was a real milestone for Chesterfield in 2022. It completed the regeneration of the Northern Gateway which has given the town a ‘revitalised central area to be proud of with new buildings, a transformed former Co-op department store and attractive public realm. It is great to see investment continuing in 2023 with the Levelling Up funding. This will, I hope, give Chesterfield a future-proofed town centre which everyone can benefit from – businesses, residents, shoppers and visitors.”

Peter Swallow, Chair, Destination Chesterfield

“It has been fantastic to see the continued preservation and investment in key town centre buildings throughout 2022 – like the Stephenson Memorial Hall and the former Co-op department store on Elder Way. Buildings like these give Chesterfield town centre its character and set it apart. Chesterfield has some stunning architecture which, through clever thinking is being preserved and repurposed for future users. It will be great to see the Pomegranate re-open in 2023 and new tenants in the units created at Elder Way.”

Mark Hill, Development Director, Jomast Developments

“To see Chesterfield delivering on two huge developments in the town with both the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place being completed and welcoming their first tenants has been very encouraging for the economic outlook for the town in 2023. I hope the town continues on its trajectory for developments and that Chesterfield Borough Council continues making strides to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. Following our Love Chesterfield – Sustainability Award win in 2022, this is a cause very close to our hearts!”

James Pogson, Director, Northern Tea Merchants

“Chesterfield and district have adapted incredibly well to the challenges of coming out of the pandemic. There have been lots of new businesses opening – The Glass Yard in Chesterfield and the new revamped Blue Stoops in Dronfield – and some of the vibrant festivals we all enjoy have come back to the town centre.

“My hope for 2023 is that Chesterfield and district will continue to thrive. There is so much innovation in the town, but so much more that can be done to make sure we keep moving forward and build on our identity as a business, shopping, and leisure destination.”

Claire Wilks, Commercial Manager, Dronfield Heritage Trust

Christmas Light Switch On and Market Dronfield Hall Barn

“One of the stand-out successes for both Bolsterstone and the town in 2022 has been the opening of the new office block at Chesterfield Waterside with two floors in the building already let. This gives the town much-needed large floorplate, high quality office accommodation. This is yet another tick in the box to enable the town to attract further investment. Chesterfield has all the ingredients to be successful in 2023 and I am very much looking forward to the year ahead and hope it will be a successful one for the town.”

Tom Swallow, Bolsterstone Group PLC

“Our borough emerged from the pandemic in a strong position for the future and, working with partners and business networks, we have progressed and delivered on a whole raft of projects which will help ensure Chesterfield continues to thrive for years to come. Highlights for our local businesses and economy include our successful bid for almost £20m from the Government’s levelling up fund, which is helping us to revitalise our town centre and marketplace. We’re also unlocking the potential of other key sites across the borough, including as part of our Staveley Town Deal project and the opening of flagship developments like the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre and One Waterside Place – making sure we remain in a strong position to attract investment, jobs and skills provision for the benefit of local people.

“As we look to the new year we must do so against the backdrop of a changing and challenging national economic picture. But our borough has shown itself to be resilient, innovative and collaborative in all that we do, and I feel confident that we will remain in a strong position to continue our growth and realise our ambitions for the future. We firmly believe that 2023 will be another transformative year for our borough, as we continue taking positive strides forward in our work to regenerate our communities and create opportunity for local people and business.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

Tricia Gliby investment summit 2022

“2022 has had some notable successes for both the town and businesses that are based here. We have new high grade office accommodation and regeneration taking place in the town centre. I believe the investment that has been made in recent years will benefit Chesterfield significantly during the economic downturn. Chesterfield has resilience at its core and this has served and will continue to serve us well. I have lived, worked and run a business here for more than 50 years and I know the town is well-placed to ride out the recession and continue to grow. I hope that people share my optimism and continue to work together and support each other in 2023.”

Chris Sellars, Bridge Help

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Chesterfield Property and Construction Group: “We are truly excited by what lies ahead for Chesterfield”

Chair of Chesterfield’s Property & Construction Group, Andy Dabbs has penned his thoughts on a productive 2022 for the sector. Andy also shares his optimism for the group and wider investment and developments across Chesterfield as we head into 2023.

It is hard to imagine that it was only in the December of last year, we were still operating under the cloud of the pandemic, uncertain if the rise of a new variant would threaten the recovery of our industry and our attempts to return to ‘normal’ business activity.

However, as we sit here now, reflecting on 2022 and looking forward into the new year, uncertainty feels like it has become the only thing we can be certain about. The formation of Chesterfield’s Construction and Property Group (CCPG) in 2020 was ultimately about providing greater sector focussed support for the Town and local property businesses through public and private sector collaboration, and now heading into its third year, I believe we have never been better placed as a network to support each other in an exponentially changing and increasingly volatile industry.

Positively, throughout this period and now its 2nd year since its formation, Chesterfield Property Group members has continued to work hard maintaining a meaningful platform for engagement connecting both the public and private sector together. The group has maintained a clear focus on key themes centred around promoting the town, the skills and future talent agenda, business engagement, the climate emergency and importantly providing support to our Local Authority who continue to work tirelessly in their efforts to support the town and the property sector.  The group has tailored its activity over throughout 2022 focussing on delivering tangible and meaningful outputs, some of these including:

  • Property Forums – updating local property businesses on the latest market activity
  • Skills and Talent masterclass – bringing key figures from property and construction alongside key skills and training providers to discuss how the sector can overcome the skills issue
  • Quality and Sustainability masterclass – discussing sustainable development in Chesterfield, and why this is critical for future of the town
  • Investment Summit – hosting a property focussed Q&A session with Chief Executive Hue Bowen and Council Leader Trisha Gilby
  • Regular social media activity – highlighting some of the key issues in the industry such as skills, sustainability, diversity in the sector and promoting developments taking place in the town etc.
  • A variety of networking and social events including walking tours, and brewery visits. supporting business to business relationship development

Property and Construction Masterclass Chesterfield

There is no question that the current economic outlook will pose challenging for those operating in the Property sector, but we must be careful not to be consumed by negative media, and instead businesses must focus on their ‘own economy’ and work even harder to invest in building resilience against any uncertainty. The property group believes that the best way of doing this is by working collaboratively together, sharing our experience, and working hard to unlock and connect each other to the wide array of opportunities across the region.

Despite everything, Chesterfield continues to attract interest from the investment market, and with the secured levelling up funding, will see the continued regeneration and development of our built environment over the coming years. The town is rich with potential and opportunity, and we are delighted that the Property Group has played a small part in supporting in its success over the last few years.

As the Property Group looks forward to the year ahead and the activity plans start to take shape, we are truly excited by what lies ahead for Chesterfield and the wider Borough. We will look forward to building upon our existing relationships whilst forging new ones as the Group continues to evolve and adapt to support the developing needs of the town.

If you work within the Property and Construction Sector and would like to hear more about the groups developing plans, please get in touch by emailing PropertyGroup@Chesterfield.co.uk

Property and Construction Group Chesterfield

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2023 Made in Chesterfield festival inspires girls to consider careers in engineering and manufacturing

Girls have been inspired to consider a career in engineering and manufacturing thanks to this year’s Made in Chesterfield festival, co-ordinated by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP).

Maddy, a Year 9 pupil from Whittington Green School who visited performance vehicle specialist Scooby Clinic in Wingerworth, said: “I would definitely consider a future career in STEM. There’s a stigma about STEM being just for boys but actually more women should give it a go; they can do it. It’s not just for boys.”

Maddy was one of more than 150 male and female students from secondary schools throughout Chesterfield that took part in workplace visits to companies operating in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) sector during the four-week festival.

The visits, which were organised by Direct Education Business Partnership, were designed to introduce secondary school students to the varied STEM careers available in the local economy.

Sonya Martin, Out of School Tuition Tutor at Whittington Green Secondary School, praised the campaign, saying: “We’ve had quite a few female students say they didn’t realise engineering was open to them and that, actually, the work would be a lot of fun. Having the chance to bring them around different workplaces, especially Scooby Clinic, has been really good for them because we very rarely get to know what goes on in our local environment.”

Scooby Clinic was one of a number of businesses that welcomed students into the workplace during the festival. MSE Hiller, Weightron Bilanciai, United Cast Bar, Superior Wellness, Atlantic Pumps, Robinson PLC and Aztec Oils also opened their doors to students.

Aztec Oils, which is based in Bolsover and is one of the UK’s leading specialists in high-performance lubricant manufacture and distribution, welcomed students from Springwell Community College.

Scooby Clinic Made in Chesterfield

During the visit Year 9 pupil Lara commented; “Being here today has made me reconsider my GCSE options. It’s shown me that STEM is more than science and there are lots of jobs and so many opportunities out there.”

Julie Richards, Principal of The Chesterfield College Group, explained: “It is so positive to see the impact of raising aspirations in STEM subjects with girls across the region thanks to initiatives like Made in Chesterfield. This is the latest in a long line of positive actions to breakdown any perceived barriers for young women who enter a career in STEM. Year on year we are delighted to see more and more young, driven women studying programmes and apprenticeships at Chesterfield College in STEM industries. These students consistently inform us that when talking to school age girls about getting into a STEM related career they should ‘just go for it!’ Whilst they admitted they felt daunted when first entering the industry, that apprehension quickly subsided when they realised how supported and valued they were by their classmates or work colleagues.”

According to a report by The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Diversity and Inclusion in STEM, only 27% of the UK’s STEM workforce is female compared to 52% of the wider workforce.

Made in Chesterfield, which is sponsored by the Chesterfield College Group, is now in its eighth year. The annual festival is playing a key role in addressing the technical skills shortage amongst local businesses.

Research by the UK Commission for Employment & Skills found that 43 per cent of national STEM vacancies are hard to fill due to a shortage of skilled and experienced applicants.

Ivan Fomin Destination Chesterfield board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the Borough said: “I am delighted at the impact the Made in Chesterfield festival has made with students, schools and businesses this year. Seeing so many mixed groups of students undertaking visits to STEM workplaces in Chesterfield is incredibly encouraging. Ensuring that our workplaces are diverse is critical to tackling skills shortages in the sector both locally and nationally.”

Clare Talati, Chief Executive of DEBP added: “DEBP are delighted to work in partnership on the initiative; at a time with increased pressures for schools and employers, the feedback demonstrates just how important workplace visits are in enabling young people to understand more about the amazing opportunities available locally.”

Since its 2014 launch, Made in Chesterfield has introduced over 3,500 young people to the jobs and careers available operating in the STEM sector within local businesses.

Whittington Green Made in Chesterfield Scooby Clinic Visit

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Toys worth a five-figure sum donated to Chesterfield FC’s charity appeal

Toys worth a total of around £10,000 will be distributed to worthy causes this Christmas following a fantastic response to Chester’s Christmas Toy Appeal.

Organised by Chesterfield FC and the club’s Community Trust, the initiative provides toys at Christmas for children’s charities and families who have experienced hardship.

The appeal was supported by residents and businesses across the town, with local people getting involved in the community effort.

A number of locations opened their doors and storage space as drop-off units for toys, including:

  • Ideal Flooring – behind Morrisons on Chatsworth Road.
  • World Choice Holidays inside Tesco.
  • Chester’s Den.
  • Rosewood Wealth Management Ltd.
  • GSM Electrical Supplies, Holmewood
  • TSB, Bolsover.
  • Spencers Solicitors, Chesterfield.

Bridget Ball, marketing manager for the Spireites, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response, particularly at a time when finances are tight for everyone.

“It is amazing to think that we will be providing toys for so many children who would otherwise miss out.

“Our grateful thanks go to Brett Martin Ltd, who have sponsored the appeal, together with the many businesses and individuals who have donated toys.”

The Spireites have also been busy elsewhere in the community in the run-up to Christmas, with first team players making themselves available for photos and autographs with fans in the club shop earlier this week.

The club’s official radio station, 1866 Sport has also been named as the official radio partner of the upcoming Santa Fun Run in Queen’s Park, taking place on Christmas Eve. Find out more about the event below:

Find out more about some of the fabulous festive initiatives being carried out by Chesterfield Champions across the town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2022/11/how-chesterfields-business-community-is-supporting-local-people-this-christmas/

Chesterfield Football Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Chesterfield FC Toy appeal

Image by Chesterfield FC Community Trust

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Multiple accolades for Superior Wellness at UK Pool & Spa Awards

Chesterfield based Superior Wellness were successful in winning several awards at the prestigious event held on 8 December 2022 in Birmingham.

The first award success was for the International Team of the Year, with the Superior Wellness Logistics team winning. Luke Shiels, Logistics Manager said: “We are over the moon to win this award, it’s great for the team to be acknowledged at the UK Pool & Spa awards. I am extremely proud of my team for all of their effort and hard work this year! We have all pulled together to make partner deliveries as smooth as possible and ensure that trade show season went ahead without any issues. Well done to all of you!”

The second accolade was for Marketing Initiative of the Year – for the location shoots. Superior Wellness has invested heavily in its marketing department with location shoots being a main focus throughout 2022. The team have travelled all over the country to many beautiful destinations and from this has been able to produce high quality marketing material for brands and partners.

Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing said: “I am delighted that we have won the Marketing Initiative of the Year Award.  Our content has gone up a level with our new marketing studio and on location photoshoots. The team have worked incredibly hard, and I am very proud of them all.”

Superior wellness marketing team

Superior Wellness also received a Gold Award for the following categories:

  • Energy Efficiency/Eco Award – AquaSolus Eco-Heatlock
  • Energy Efficiency/Eco Award – Platinum Premium Shield
  • Spa Product of the Year – Ruby hot tub, Thermals Spas
  • Spa Product of the Year – Tokyo hot tub, Platinum Spas
  • Pool and Spa Supplier of the Year – Platinum Spas
  • Marketing Initiative of the Year – Marketing Studio

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “It is a great honour for us all to end the year with the award success, the team have been working hard all year and it’s great to see that all of their hard work has been recognised. I am extremely proud of the whole team.”

Showcasing the very best examples of pool and spa design from across the country, the UK Pool & Spa Awards celebrated its 12th anniversary with featured projects and products.  With 225 entries from 60 companies to assess, 22 judges were involved in the 2022 decision-making.

Entrants were awarded gold, silver or bronze standard in the competition covering both home and public pool and spa facilities in a contest that attracted over 2,000 on-line votes and votes from judges, before being scrutinised by an independent jury.

Winners across 30 categories were announced during the presentation at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 8 December which featured a guest appearance from The Pool Guy, a pool maintenance specialist from Bedfordshire, who boasts 13.7 million followers on Tik-Tok and over one million likes on You Tube.

More information on the awards, including a full list of winners, can be found at www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

Superior Wellness supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Superior wellness team

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Chesterfield hair and beauty salon expands into new town centre premises

Chesterfield-based hair and beauty salon, Autumn House has announced an exciting expansion in the town centre.

It paves the way for the business to open a whole new range of services, enabling it to offer a full range of party and events packages and even a bar for customers.

In addition, owner Hayley Milner is looking to deliver hair training courses on a larger scale and is looking for new stylists and beauty therapists to join the team.

Commenting on the move, Hayley said: “Moving into the town centre into such a big building, after being in what was essentially a two-bedroom terrace turned into a salon for the last 5 and a half years, was incredibly scary.

“But myself and the girls I work with are so excited to be in and working, now the renovation is finished. We were at full capacity in the last space we had, and with the amount of footfall passing by, hopefully we will attract some new clients.”

Hayley also spoke about why she loves having her business based in the town: “I love my business being based in Chesterfield, as all of my new shop neighbours have been so friendly and supportive.

Autumn House Team

Autumn house, Image supplied by Brand Photography by Wings

“Obviously my clientele is mainly from Chesterfield and they’re all so lovely. I wouldn’t move my salon anywhere else!

“It’s so important for people to continue to support small and local businesses, especially at the moment. I always try and buy from fellow smaller businesses where I can, instead of the huge chains. You’re supporting someone’s dream and their family.

“My clients are amazing, and most have been with me since day one, supporting and pushing my business.”

Find out more about Autumn House on Facebook, and to explore the great range of independent retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

To get more infomation on the benefits of locating your business in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Autumn house

Autumn House Interior – Image supplied by Brand Photography by Wings

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Markham Vale extension to create 800 new jobs locally

An extension has been approved to build on the hugely successful Markham Vale business park, next to the M1 in Derbyshire.

Markham Vale was established as a joint venture between HBD and Derbyshire County Council back in 2006 and now hosts more than 2,700 jobs across a wide range of sectors, including advanced manufacturing and logistics.

Markham Vale is home to a range of business uses, including Daher Aerospace which is exporting monorail parts to Cairo, Grangers International which manufactures waterproof outdoor products and shoe care products, and Sterigenics, which makes sterile healthcare products.

Devonshire Property Group will continue its work with the commercial developer HBD at Markham Vale and hopes to create around 800 new jobs for local people, with a scheme that pays strong attention to its natural surroundings.

The project includes an extensive landscaping plan that makes the most of the site’s existing features, whilst protecting and improving the river corridor. Significant planting will include c. 5,700 new trees (including 2.15ha of new woodland planting), 3.7ha of new grassland habitat and two kilometres of new native hedgerow to screen the development and create areas of new habitat.

This creates a 10% improvement of biodiversity net gain over the existing ecology value, in excess of current policy.

The success of the existing business park has led to the site running out of space to accommodate large space users and without this new development, Markham Vale will have to turn away investment from the growing industrial and logistics sectors, who require large units at locations with good access to the motorway network.

The site itself comprises two non-protected agricultural fields, bounded by the M1 to the south and keeping a large separation distance between the business park and the village of Woodthorpe. The final design of the buildings will be in accordance with the established design code for Markham Vale, which fixes a limited palette of colours to minimise visual impact. All vehicular traffic will use the existing highway network to allow easy access to the motorway.

Andrew Byrne, speaking on behalf of Devonshire Property Group commented: “The extension to the business park at Markham Vale is expected to create up to 800 new jobs for local people at what is a very successful development already supporting 2700 jobs in a variety of sectors.

“We’ve put in place an extensive landscaping plan, which includes protecting and improving the river corridor, and extensive tree and hedgerow planting as well as a large area of grassland. We’re also working with the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust to improve the wildlife habitats on a nearby site that will result in an overall 10% net gain in biodiversity. This is a high-quality extension to a highly successful employment location, with the aim of making a real contribution to the strength of the local economy.”

Devonshire Group and HBD support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Markham Vale Business Park

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Major new housing development and community facilities approved for Mastin Moor

Plans for 650 new homes and community facilities in Mastin Moor have been approved by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The project, undertaken by the Devonshire Property Group is due to start in summer 2023.

Andrew Byrne, Devonshire Property Group: “Mastin Moor will gain 650 new homes, including affordable homes, all built to the latest environmental standards. As well as new community facilities such as a residential care home, shops, and health and leisure amenities, 20 hectares (c50 acres) of new parkland will be created.

“As part of this development we’re particularly proud to provide a home for the Construction Skills Hub, a council-sponsored, Staveley Town Deal project that will deliver a range of vocational courses designed to upskill the workforce in both current construction techniques and those required to create the sustainable homes and workplaces of the future.”

The housing and community development at Mastin Moor will be built on approximately 46 hectares (c113 acres) of land south of Worksop Road. It will deliver 650 new homes, a quarter of which will be built to higher adaptable and accessible standards.

The project also includes a new elderly care centre and specialist accommodation, health centre, convenience shops and retail. All of the homes will have access to electric car charging units and will be electrically-heated making them some of the most environmentally friendly new homes in the district.

The development will sit amongst 20 hectares of green, open space for the community, with children’s play areas, informal recreation spaces and naturalistic tree planting (approx 8500) to increase biodiversity.

The project is expected to take 10 years to complete and will create 150 direct construction jobs as well as 150 supply chain and other roles. The Construction Skills hub will be in place for the duration of the project, providing a range of vocational courses designed to upskill the workforce in both current construction techniques and those required to create the sustainable homes for the future.

Devonshire Group supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Mastin Moor plans

Mastin Moor Plans, image provided by The Devonshire Group

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Property and Construction, Uncategorised