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VEEZU named national private hire company of the year

Chesterfield Champion’s Veezu has been named the ‘National Private Hire Company of the Year’ in the 300+ fleet size category at the prestigious Taxi Summit Awards 2024. Additionally, Nia Cooper, the company’s Chief Legal Officer, has been awarded ‘Woman of the Year’, recognising her significant contributions to the PHV sector. The Taxi Summit Awards celebrate industry leaders who drive innovation and excellence.

Since its inception in 2013, Veezu has rapidly grown in popularity, transforming how people travel by seamlessly combining the local expertise of traditional taxi and PHV firms with the efficiency and scale of a national platform. This unique approach ensures that urban and rural communities receive an exceptional booking service, setting Veezu apart as an industry leader whilst resonating strongly with UK passengers.

“We are honoured to be named the National Private Hire Company of the Year,” said Nathan Bowles, CEO of Veezu. “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Reliable and sustainable transport plays a vital role in connecting communities, and this award underscores our commitment to providing a safe and dependable booking service. We remain focused on investing in people, technology and innovation to enhance our offering and continue shaping the future of mobility across the UK.”

Veezu is also celebrating the achievements of Nia Cooper, who has been recognised as ‘Woman of the Year’. Since joining Veezu in 2018, she has led the company’s legal affairs and compliance strategies, ensuring that Veezu adheres to the highest regulatory standards. With over two decades of experience in employment law, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance, Nia has been instrumental in managing Veezu’s legal strategy and advancing Veezu’s mission to deliver safe, highly accessible on-demand and prebooked transport solutions to passengers.

Nia’s achievements at Veezu and this accolade dovetail to highlight not only her individual accomplishments but also the vital role women can and do play in shaping the industry’s future. It serves as an important stepping stone toward greater diversity and inclusion within the sector.

Nia Cooper said: “I’m honoured to receive this award and grateful to be part of such a dynamic sector. The private hire industry plays a vital role in connecting communities, and I’m proud to contribute to its evolution. This achievement reflects the collective effort of the entire Veezu team as we continue to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable transport solutions.”

Nathan Bowles, CEO of Veezu, added: “Nia’s expertise and strategic vision have been invaluable to Veezu’s growth. Her leadership has ensured that we remain compliant while continuing to innovate and expand. This award is a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to both Veezu and the taxi and PHV sector.”

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

Posted in Business, Home

East Midlands given £40million to boost bus services 

Over £40million is being given to the East Midlands Combined County Authority to invest in bus services across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

The funding, which comes from the Government, will aim to keep fares down, protect local routes and deliver more reliable services.

East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) will get the funding as they are now the official Local Transport Authority. The plan is to work closely with partner councils and bus operators to develop the bus network further and discuss how to share the funding to get the best use of it.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “Improving our bus services is about more than just getting people from A to B—it’s about transforming lives and communities. This funding is a fantastic opportunity to connect people across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, making it easier to access jobs, skills training, health appointments, and our incredible tourist attractions. Reliable, affordable buses are the lifeblood of our region, bringing people closer to opportunity and helping businesses to thrive.

“By working closely with councils and operators, we’ll make sure every penny of this funding makes a difference, creating a bus network that our communities can depend on and be proud of. Together, we’re building a region where everyone has the chance to succeed.”

This money is part of the Governments wider £955 million to support bus services until 2026. With £712 million going to local authorities to improve bus services, and a further £243 million for bus operators.

EMCCA, as the lead on local transport, will work across the region with key partners to transform transport for people who live, work and do business or visit the region. This includes plans to deliver improvements to routes, ticketing, and passenger information, plus making transport connections better across the region.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Award wins for Chesterfield’s Global Brands

Global Brands ltd, a Chesterfield-based drinks producer has won several industry awards for its innovative products.

The company’s range of Gather Gourmet Cocktails have been awarded the Champion for Label & Pack Design of the Year – Drinks, at The Grocer NPD & Packaging Awards.  In addition, the Gather Caramel Banana Colada won Silver in the Alcoholic Drinks NPD category. These awards seek to recognise the efforts of brands bringing excitement and difference to grocery aisles.

Head of NPD at Global Brands, Jerome Jacob, commented: “With Gather, our vision was simple: capture the magic of a truly indulgent cocktail bar in a can, making that premium experience accessible at home. From mixing spices by hand to infusing tequila with habanero right in our development kitchens, it’s been a hands-on, creative journey. Winning these awards for both design and innovation is proof of the dedication behind every detail, every flavour, and every decision”.

Creative Director, Andrew Warren, added: “What a fantastic result. It was a designers dream, job full of individual style and typography. Well done to Antony Firth the lead designer and all the team players from Clay Creative, NPD, Brand and Production. Great team effort. I am sure there’s more to come in 2025.”

Elsewhere, another Global Brands product range, Franklin & Sons has been awarded the winner of the prestigious IWSC 2024 Mixer Producer Trophy.

Recognising the brand’s heritage as pioneers of flavour, and its success in becoming a well-recognised and respected name in the drinks industry for over a century, Franklin & Sons has achieved consistent recognition at the IWSC Awards, with 2024 proving to be another milestone. This year, Franklin & Sons achieved an impressive 7 IWSC medals, including 1 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze, underscoring our commitment to excellence.

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.

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Safe space launched for people enjoying a night out in Chesterfield

A ‘safe space’ in the heart of Chesterfield is helping to keep partygoers and vulnerable people safe – whilst also taking pressure off the emergency services.

Chesterfield’s Safe Space is a multi-agency initiative that aims to provide support to anyone who may feel vulnerable or in need of support.

Located at Old Parish Café, 3 St Mary’s Gate, Chesterfield (near the Pig and Pump), the Safe Space is open every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm to 3am. It is run by staff from Chesterfield Borough Council’s community safety team, paramedics and street pastors, who works alongside Chesterfield Pubwatch and Derbyshire Constabulary to help keep everyone safe.

Night time revellers can visit the Safe Space to charge their phones or get help to get a taxi home. Free hot drinks or water are also available, along with flip-flops for anyone who is ready to kick-off their killer heels.

The team are also on hand to provide first aid, help people who have become separated from their friends, or just offer a listening ear to anyone who may need it.

Support is also available to anyone who may be vulnerable, and the team can provide information and leaflets about a range of issues including alcohol and drugs, domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness and mental health.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We’re lucky to have so many bars, pubs and restaurants in Chesterfield that residents and visitors can enjoy, and we want to make sure everyone feels supported to be able to enjoy a safe night out.

“The Safe Space has already made a huge impact on the community – whether that be helping partygoers who need to ditch the killer heels and charge their phone, or being a listening ear for someone who may be lonely of vulnerable – there’s support for everyone.

“With the Christmas season fast approaching, we know more and more people will be heading out to enjoy the festivities too, and we hope that it will be reassuring for many that the safe space is on hand to help if they need it.”

Inspector Kara Simpson said: “Chesterfield is a fantastic night out, but we know sometimes things don’t always go to plan.

“If you find that has happened then know that there is somewhere to go and there is someone to give you a cuppa, order a taxi, or simply listen to you.

“Christmas is a time when we know people head out on the town – but we also know it can be a tough period for many – so if it’s just a friend who has had one too many or a stranger who looks like they are having a difficult time, there is a place to go to find some help.”

Planning an evening out in Chesterfield? Check out our guide here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/places-to-visit/night-out/

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Chesterfield included on new rail route from Cardiff to Edinburgh

Chesterfield will benefit from being part of a new rail route, which will link passengers directly between Cardiff and Edinburgh.

Long distance train operator CrossCountry has announced a new weekday service linking Wales, England and Scotland by one train for the first time. The services are being introduced as part of the rail industry’s twice-yearly timetable change, rolled out from Sunday 15 December.

The 455-mile journey will connect 22 stations between the capitals of Wales and Scotland directly by rail in what is thought to be the first service of its kind. Passengers are already able to book journeys on the new route.

It’s not just long-distance travellers who will benefit from the new service: many new direct journey options will be available for passengers to book across the entire route, meaning more choice for CrossCountry customers.

Scott Maynard, CrossCountry’s Interim Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to introduce this new service joining Cardiff and Edinburgh directly by rail for the very first time – meaning even more connections for customers across the length and breadth of the country.

“Thanks to colleagues across CrossCountry and the wider rail industry for their support in delivering these new services linking two of Great Britain’s capital cities, as well as many other key towns and cities in between.

The new service will be formed by long-distance Voyager services departing from Cardiff and Penzance in the morning, joining together at Birmingham New Street before proceeding north to Edinburgh.

On the southbound journey, the long-distance Voyager train will depart from Edinburgh and proceed to Gloucester where the service splits into two. Half of the train will travel onwards to Cardiff whilst the other half will terminate at Plymouth.

There will be one service in each direction between Cardiff and Edinburgh on weekdays only. To check journeys and buy tickets, visit the CrossCountry website at www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/buy-tickets.

Excellently located in the centre of the UK with superb rail connections to several major cities, Chesterfield offers an excellent quality of life for its residents. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

 

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Put a twist on tradition this Christmas in Chesterfield

Residents and visitors are invited to mix it up this Christmas and try something unique to celebrate the festive season.

Many exciting events are happening across Chesterfield including spending time together at the family-friendly Christmas Lights Switch On, getting creative at crafting workshops, cruising the canal with Santa, laughing out loud at the Cinderella Pantomime, and marvelling at the stunning displays at the Festival of Christmas Trees, hosted in the Crooked Spire, the Church of St Mary and All Saints.

christmas lights new square

A new campaign from Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield aims to celebrate all the unique events, independent traders and delicious food and drink available across the town this Christmas.

Chesterfield is home to a fantastic selection of independent businesses, market traders and retailers. Whether you’re picking out unique gifts for loved ones, choosing a cheeky secret Santa present or heading out to enjoy festive food and drink together, there are lots of lovely local suppliers who will make your Christmas unique.

You might even spot Santa browsing Chesterfield Market ahead of the big day!

Choosing to support local businesses can make a real difference – if everyone in Chesterfield spent just £10 with one of our independent businesses, it would generate more than one million pounds of sales.

Man and woman looking at items at items at Chesterfield Market

The Christmas in Chesterfield website features a guide to all the events happening across the town, activities to take part in together, gift guides with unique offerings from local businesses, the ultimate list of food and drink venues to socialise at and a new bucket list of twelve things you should try this Christmas.

Throughout the campaign, there will also be competitions and giveaways with some fantastic prizes on offer.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “There is so much happening in Chesterfield this Christmas including traditional family favourites like our Pantomime or Christmas Lights Switch On event but there are also new exciting activities like the Winter Windows Trail which will help you mix up your traditions and create precious memories together.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, added: “Chesterfield offers endless opportunities to discover something new this festive season. By stepping outside the usual traditions, you’ll not only create unforgettable moments but also support the hardworking local businesses that make our community special. From cosy cafes to unique boutiques, Chesterfield’s independents are ready to help you prepare for the big day.”

Start making your festive plans by visiting: www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas

Posted in About Chesterfield, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Major boost for a joined up visitor economy strategy for the East Midlands

A new regional approach to delivering a thriving visitor economy across the East Midlands is set to be developed.

In a meeting on Monday 4 November, the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board agreed funding of up to £60k to support the joint work of the region’s two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) to develop a Destination Management Plan for the EMCCA region to add value, strengthen collaboration and avoid duplication.

The approach agreed by the Board focuses on three core elements to boost the visitor economy:

  • By promoting our place and products to deliver enhanced profile, greater reach and more visitors.
  • By developing the offer, working with our stakeholders to improve and increase, for example, hotel accommodation and live venue, conference facilities etc
  • By realising the value of the sector, showing the wider benefits to our region over and above the contribution to our economy.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has begun a series of engagement events in order to hear directly from key organisations across the sector.

This has included a Derby and Derbyshire-focused meeting hosted by the Devonshire Group at Chatsworth House, an Arts Council-led event in Chesterfield, bringing together representatives from across the culture and heritage sectors, and a Nottingham and Nottinghamshire-focused event hosted at the National Civil War Centre in Newark.

These events provided valuable feedback regarding the challenges and opportunities for organisations in the sector.

There are now two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) that cover the whole of the EMCCA area, Visit Nottinghamshire and Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby and they are both formally accredited by Visit England. They will work with EMCCA to develop a strategic vision for the region, highlighting all the fundamentals of making our destinations thrive, while supporting local businesses.

The tourism/visitor economy makes a significant contribution to our economy, worth around £5.25bn in 2023 and supporting around 52,000 jobs. The aim is to take up numerous opportunities to grow the value of the sector, both in terms of direct economic impact and wider benefits that support EMCCA’s inclusive growth objectives.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “The Visitor Economy is one of my key priorities because it matters everywhere: to our cities, our market towns, and our rural areas alike.

“This is a vital agenda for the whole region and I’m delighted to lead and strengthen collaboration with our regional partners. Our joined up Destination Management Plan means that we can have more impact, and improve our offer for visitors, residents and grow our economy.”

Jo Dilley of the of the Visit Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby LVEP said: “We’re delighted that East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) recognises the importance of the visitor economy, which is worth £2.89bn to the Peak District and Derbyshire, and are pleased to be working in partnership with Visit Nottinghamshire on joined-up Destination Management Plans that will benefit the entire East Midlands region.

“The visitor economy is a sector that can drive positive change across local communities, providing jobs, boosting investment, and supporting the development of vital infrastructure. By working collaboratively and creating a strong partnership across the Combined Authority, we can offer efficiency of scale and growth for businesses, amplifying key assets across national and international markets. Together, we can deliver a sustainable strategy that provides a strong foundation for the sector’s future growth.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes commented: “It is great to see these two Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEPs) working in collaboration to support sustainable growth in tourism and investment in the East Midlands. The local visitor economy will benefit from this joint and stronger regional alignment.

“VisitEngland will continue to work with Visit Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby and Visit Nottinghamshire LVEPs as they develop their collective Destination Management Plan with our expert guidance and resources in areas from product distribution, accessibility and sustainability to business support, funding bids and marketing.”

At the meeting, Board members emphasised the value of the visitor economy and the opportunity we have to grow this. There are great assets already across our area, and by joining up our efforts we can promote an offer that persuades people to visit for longer, spending more in our region and going home having had a great experience and promoting our region.

The Board also noted the vital contribution that will be made by areas such as transport and skills, for which EMCCA is becoming responsible, and the opportunity we now have to make sure our spending and delivery in those areas helps our visitor economy thrive, through promoting the value of jobs and careers in the sector, working with providers to develop a skilled workforce, and helping improve transport connectivity for visitors and those working in the sector.

Visit Chesterfield for a great day out or to stay. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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

East Midlands Mayor announces major step on path to growth

The region that gave birth to the first industrial revolution will set out a roadmap to invest billions of pounds in a new future which grows prosperity for all its people and places.

The Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward – is launching a high-powered Inclusive Growth Commission which will identify how the region can harness major opportunities and tackle its challenges over the next decade and beyond.

Its work will guide how the East Midlands Combined County Authority invests a £4 billion funding pot to help drive a thriving economy across Derby and Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Mayor Claire and council leaders across the region have appointed the RSA (Royal Society of Arts), which is renowned for its work in helping places join the dots between economic opportunities and people’s needs, to run the Commission.

It will be chaired by the RSA’s Chief Executive, Andy Haldane – the former Chief Economist of the Bank of England – who will be joined by a team of national and regional experts including Sir John Peace, Chairman of the Midlands Engine and one of the founders of the Nottingham-based global business, Experian, and Gillian Sewell, the CEO of YMCA Derbyshire.

They will spend the coming few months talking to communities, businesses, councils and major regional institutions to find out what people think about the region and its potential.

The Inclusive Growth Commission will release an initial report next Spring, which sets out the current picture in the East Midlands, and a final report next Autumn. This will outline how investments could grow the economy in a way which tackles challenges and connects people and places to new opportunities.

Mayor Claire said: “Inclusive growth means creating opportunities for all — good jobs, quality education, and thriving local economies that work for every single resident. It’s about ensuring no one is left behind as we build a prosperous, sustainable future.

“Whether you live in one of our vibrant cities or a rural town or village, this will make a real difference to how we lift our region.

“I’m proud to have put together this ambitious commission, and together, we will make the East Midlands the best place to live, work, and learn.”

Andy Haldane said: “I am excited to be chairing this new commission which has the potential to unlock tens of millions in growth across this dynamic region. By taking a fresh look at the many opportunities underpinning the East Midlands economy, we will seek to supercharge the region, bolster job opportunities, and make progress towards net zero.

“At the RSA, our Design for Life mission draws on the ingenuity and interconnectedness of communities and local leaders around the country- not least through our Prosperous Places work. I look forward to seeing that come to life in the year ahead”.

Sir John Peace said: “I know from my own experience that the East Midlands is a place that can lead the world. It is brimming with inventive spirit, and has a long tradition of taking new ideas and turning them into innovations that change people’s lives.

“But we can do better. We now need to apply that inventive spirit to the challenge of connecting more of our communities to prosperity and I’m delighted to be joining the Inclusive Growth Commission and playing a part in that process.”

Gillian Sewell added: “The East Midlands is an outstanding region that has so much to offer and be proud of.

“We can build on this strong foundation and deliver meaningful benefits by lifting the prosperity of our all our communities whilst supporting the wellbeing of our people”.

The Commission’s conclusion and recommendations will be developed in close collaboration with a wide range of groups and organisations across the East Midlands, including councils, businesses, colleges, universities and trade unions. The recommendations from the Commission will inform future investment proposals for up to £4billion of public investment by EMCCA.

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Growth continues for Superior Wellness with acquisition of European hot tub manufacturer

Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness, the world’s fastest-growing manufacturer and distributor of hot tubs and wellness products, has acquired the ongoing trading business of Portcril, a well-established and respected Portuguese hot tub company.

This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Superior Wellness’s ambitious growth strategy, further solidifying its position as a global leader in the wellness industry.

With a robust network of over 500 partners worldwide, Superior Wellness is the parent brand of some of the most loved and best-selling hot tub, ice bath, and sauna brands, including Platinum Spas, AquaSolus, HEKLA, and Chill Tubs. The addition of Portcril to the Superior Wellness family is a testament to the company’s commitment to expanding its international footprint and delivering high-quality wellness products to customers across the globe.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Portcril into the Superior Wellness family,” said Rob Carlin, Managing Director of Superior Wellness. “Portcril has a strong legacy in the hot tub industry, and we look forward to working closely with José and Diogo, from the founding family and current Executive Directors of Portcril, to build on their success. This acquisition not only strengthens our product portfolio but also allows us to continue delivering exceptional products and services to our customers, with the addition of a European production facility and operating base to our global network of manufacturing and operational facilities.”

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director of Superior Wellness, shared his excitement about the new European facility: “I’m thrilled to announce the acquisition of Portcril, the renowned European hot tub manufacturer! After spending time at their facility and working closely with their team over the past few months, I’m incredibly excited about this significant milestone for Superior Wellness. This acquisition represents a major achievement for all involved and marks a huge step forward for our company.”

Portcril, known for its innovation and dedication to quality hot tub manufacturing, has been a staple in the European hot tub market for decades. As part of this acquisition, all 44 employees of Portcril will retain their full-time employment and have their continuing employment rights honoured. They have been warmly welcomed into the Superior Wellness team. Portcril will continue to fulfil all current orders, ensuring a seamless transition for existing customers, and will endeavour to honour historical customer warranties using Superior Wellness systems and support.

José and Diogo Teixeira, the Executive Directors of Portcril, expressed their enthusiasm for the future: “Joining forces with Superior Wellness is an exceptional next step for us. We are confident that this partnership will allow Portcril to thrive for many more decades, and we are excited to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking company.”

As Superior Wellness continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the wellness industry, the acquisition of Portcril represents a bold step forward in its mission to become the global leader in hot tubs, saunas, and cold therapy products. Customers can expect the same high standards of excellence and service that have become synonymous with all Superior Wellness brands.

Chesterfield offers a perfectly located hub in the centre of England for manufacturing and engineering companies. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Latest hires and achievements for Chesterfield Champions

Our town’s vibrant network of Chesterfield Champions continue to share their stories of success.

In recent weeks, firms have unveiled fresh hires and supported other companies in their growth.

Catch up on all the latest highlights in our roundup below.

DBCP looks to the future with latest apprentice appointment

Eighteen-year-old Lucy Cockle has embarked on the next stage of her career with an apprenticeship at DBCP, the leading provider of building control services throughout Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

Lucy, who lives in Barlborough, is the latest apprentice appointment at DBCP. Based at the firm’s Chesterfield office, Lucy has joined DBCP’s technical support team where she will undertake an 18-month Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship.

In her new role Lucy will support DBCP’s field-based building inspectors, processing Building Regulations applications and arranging inspections with builders, architects and property owners.

A former Worksop college student, Lucy completed her A Levels at the prestigious school earlier this year ahead of deciding to follow the apprenticeship route.

Lucy explained: “I knew that I wanted to work, earn and learn as well as explore a range of business roles. The apprenticeship at DBCP was a perfect fit for me as there are a range of pathways and avenues to go down within the company after I complete my qualification.

DBCP provides training opportunities from Level 2 through to degree level and fully qualified Building Control Surveyor status.

Lucy added: “Becoming a building control surveyor wasn’t a career I was aware of at school but starting my apprenticeship at DBCP has sparked my interest and I’m looking forward to seeing how my career progresses here as I learn more about the business and the industry.”

Lucy joins a number of apprentices at DBCP which has run a successful programme since 2018. Most recently, Charlotte Gladwin a Level 4 building control apprentice at DBCP, was named as the Newcomer of the Year in the LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards 2024.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, established the company’s apprenticeship scheme. He welcomed Lucy to her new role, saying: “Building control is not an industry that comes to mind when someone is leaving school. This, unfortunately, has created an industry skills shortage. Our apprenticeships, however, enable us to attract more young people like Lucy to both the industry and DBCP.”

If you’re interested in a future apprenticeship with DBCP, get in touch with David Pratt by emailing david.pratt@dbcp.co.uk

New buyer appointed at Pinelog as part of growth plans

Man earing buttoned shirt in large workshop

Another new face has joined Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings.

Stephen Hibbert from Sheffield, has joined Pinelog as a buyer, taking responsibility for the procurement of thousands of items for the company. Stephen’s is one of four back-office appointments Pinelog has made in the last 12 months as part of the firm’s strategic growth plans.

He brings a number of years in procurement to the role, previously being employed as a category manager.

Speaking about his appointment, Stephen said: “I am very proud to join Pinelog. The lodges are synonymous with quality and use premium products to ensure longevity.  As such, it is very much a case of quality over price when it comes to purchasing decisions.”

Stephen’s role sees him taking responsibility of more than 3,500 in-stock items as well as specific fixtures and fittings for each bespoke lodge.

He added: “It is a hugely challenging but very rewarding role. As we’re manufacturing each lodge from raw materials from the ground up to the finished, furnished product ready for installation, there are thousands of items involved in the production of each one. I am very much enjoying the responsibility of ensuring our production team have the products, tools and equipment to complete each lodge on time and to the highest of standards. It’s great to be part of that team.”

Stephen is based at Pinelog’s headquarters and production facility in Chesterfield, Derbyshire where all lodges are manufactured. The company relocated to Chesterfield from Bakewell in 2022 to accommodate growth plans as well as allow for greater innovation and efficiency in the manufacturing process.

He explained: “Working alongside the team that constructs the lodges at the Chesterfield site means that I can ensure that the products not only meet the needs of our customers but also my colleagues.”

As part of its growth plans, Pinelog is also recruiting a production manager to join the senior leadership team and oversee production at the Chesterfield factory. The company is also recruiting a senior lead electrician. Earlier this year, Pinelog strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Lucy Wood and Jessica Blaney, who joined sales account manager Judy Barwell, to drive forward Pinelog’s ambitions to increase its share of lodge supply to the luxury holiday park sector.

If you are a holiday park operator or have land and are looking to invest in bespoke UK-designed and manufactured luxury sustainable timber lodges, speak to the sales team on 01246 942842 to discuss how Pinelog can help you.

Shorts supports drill bit manufacturing company to become employee owned

Armeg van and gazebo

A South Yorkshire manufacturer and supplier of premium quality power tool accessories, drill bits and tools has become an employee owned business.

Sheffield-based Armeg Ltd, established in 1973, designs and manufactures high-performance, premium quality power tool drilling accessories for professionals and is now synonymous with smart design, enduring quality and trusted performance.

Armeg has been sold to the newly formed Armeg Employee Ownership Trust.

The move is set to enable the company’s 55 employees to share directly in the company’s success and future growth strategy and will mean business as usual for the firm with the current directors continuing to manage the company’s operations to bring through a new generation of management.

The new ownership model, established through an employee ownership trust (EOT), ensures each employee becomes a beneficiary of the trust.

Advisors included Sheffield’s Wake Smith Solicitors on legal matters and accountancy practice Shorts for corporate finance and tax advice.

Connor Marshall, Corporate Finance Senior Executive at Shorts, said: “It has been great to assist John and Charlie in securing the long-term future of Armeg. This transition into an EOT ensures that the culture and legacy of the business continues, with no change in day-to-day company operations for customers or employees. The employees have always been at the core of Armeg and in John and Charlie’s thoughts throughout the process and it will be great to see them benefit from the business going forward.”

Superior Wellness Appoints Brian Stalter as US Sales Manager to Strengthen Dealer Network

Exterior of Superior Wellness retail centre

 

Superior Wellness proudly announces the appointment of Brian Stalter as the new US Sales Manager. Brian, a seasoned professional with over 20 years in the hot tub industry, brings extensive sales and product knowledge to his role, reinforcing Superior Wellness’s dedication to strengthening its dealer network across the United States.

Brian’s experience includes 15 years at Hot Springs and two years at Viking Spas, where he developed a deep understanding of the hot tub industry and a proven track record of successful dealer support and new business development. In his new position, Brian will be focusing on the acquisition and development of new dealer relationships across the Midwestern states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Arkansas, Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa.

Brian expressed his enthusiasm for joining Superior Wellness, stating, “I’m extremely excited to work with Superior Wellness and feel like we’re producing some cutting-edge products that dealers enjoy selling! While I’ve been tasked initially with new business development and have been successful at it, I most enjoy helping dealers succeed. My 20-plus years have made me realize that each dealer has different needs; be it marketing, showroom merchandising and design, sales and product training among others. I can’t wait to be of service!”

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director, commented, “Brian’s extensive experience and dedication to dealer success make him the perfect choice to lead our sales efforts in the United States. We are thrilled to have him on board, and his addition strengthens our commitment to expanding our dealer network and market presence.”

Superior Wellness views Brian’s appointment as a critical step in its growth strategy for the US, and his leadership will be instrumental in building a robust network of successful dealer partnerships across key states.

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Innovative Construction Skills Hub marks official opening

An innovative new training facility which will provide skills and training to thousands of young learners has officially opened its doors in Staveley.

On Thursday 7 November Lord Burlington officially opened the Construction Skills Hub – an innovative approach to learning which aims to provide students with the skills they need to access careers in the construction industry whilst also providing them with experience to help secure their first job.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Devonshire Group, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, Chesterfield Borough Council, and Toby Perkins MP, along with students who have been studying at the Hub.

Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the project is led by Chesterfield Borough Council, with Devonshire Group providing the land where the Hub is located and Chesterfield College and the University of Derby delivering the education programme.

Lord Burlington said: “During every project we undertake, we always look for opportunities to add value and create a lasting legacy for the communities that we serve. We are therefore delighted to have been able to partner on the Construction Skills Hub on site at our Mastin Moor project. The hub provides ongoing opportunities for education and skills development that we hope will have a positive impact on the local economy for many years to come. We take our role in contributing to the long-term prosperity of our region incredibly seriously and are looking forward to seeing more local people supported through this programme in the months ahead and learning about the projects that they will be involved with in the future.”

The Hub has been operational for the last year with students initially studying at Chesterfield College before moving onto the site in Mastin Moor to gain experience of construction through helping to complete the groundworks and construction of the cabins which will be used as classroom facilities.

In year one 12 students studied at the Hub and another 29 have been recruited to study in year two.

The Hub provides training in site and bench joinery, brickwork, groundworks and electrical installation but in time will offer opportunities in retrofit and green technologies.

Over ten years, the Hub aims to provide careers insights, training and work experience for over 5,000 learners.

Chesterfield College Principal, Julie Richards OBE, said: “Projects such as this are at the core of how we operate. Working directly with key employers, the Skills Hub will support the students to develop the skilled workers required to meet the ever-increasing demand from within the construction industry. Sitting on the Staveley Town Deal Board I know the real impact this project will bring to the local area for years to come. I’m delighted to see our students so enthused, gaining the skills and knowledge on a working site which they need for a successful future career.”

The Construction Skills Hub is a key part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan and a key project within the Staveley Town Deal programme.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to officially open the Construction Skills Hub as it will help the skills people need to access great careers in our borough. This will not only help improve the local economy it will also have a positive impact on people’s lives as they will have more secure employment with higher wages.

“From talking to learners already at the Hub it was great to hear how this facility is helping them achieve their ambitions and I look forward to welcoming many more students over the coming years.”

The Construction Skills Hub is one of several projects that is being funded through the Staveley Town Deal. After developing a Town Investment Plan, Staveley was awarded £25.2 million to deliver this plan with a funding deadline of March 2026.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It is fantastic to see this project in action – providing the opportunity for young people in Staveley to gain the skills they need to access careers is a key part of ensuring our objective that Staveley is a place where everyone can start, stay and grow is achieved. I look forward to hearing how the students get on and seeing them get experience on some of the other key construction projects within the Staveley Town Deal programme.”

To find out more about the Staveley Town Deal and the ten projects being funded visit:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/staveley-town-deal/

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