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Demand for Chesterfield office space soars following completion of flagship developments

Demand for office space has soared in Chesterfield, Derbyshire’s largest town, following the completion of several high-quality schemes, according to new figures published today by Destination Chesterfield.

Demand for space in Chesterfield’s enterprise centres, which provide flexible accommodation for start-ups and businesses with high growth potential, has increased since Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre, the town’s newest centre, opened in July 2022.

More than three-quarters (81 per cent) of the office suites are now occupied at Northern Gateway, well ahead of a 50 per cent 12-month target set by Chesterfield Borough Council. Almost half (14) of tenants at Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre are new to Chesterfield, and have either fully relocated to or opened satellite offices in the town since July 2022.

Occupancy rates at Chesterfield’s established enterprise centres have rebounded to above pre-pandemic levels. 85 per cent of space at Dunston Innovation Centre and 87 per cent of Tapton Park Innovation Centre is now let. Occupancy at both locations was below 80 per cent at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and had fallen to 67 per cent at Dunston and 57 per cent at Tapton Park during the third national lockdown in early 2021.

Two floors of One Waterside Place, a 35,000 sq ft office block next to Chesterfield’s mainline railway station are now occupied and Chesterfield Borough Council reports strong interest in the remaining space. Opened in January 2023, One Waterside Place is located in Basin Square, a major part of the £340m Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme.

One Waterside Place

One Waterside Place

Private landlords are also succeeding in attracting businesses to new developments in Chesterfield. Occupancy has reached 94 per cent at The Glass Yard, a 50,000 sq ft office and retail park opened in 2022 by Blue Deer on Sheffield Road, Chesterfield. And FI Real Estate Management has secured deals on 1,143 sq ft and 7,647 sq ft spaces at The HQ, a former Royal Mail building delivering 44,000 sq ft of open-plan office space after refurbishment work completed in April 2023.

Chesterfield Borough Council is supporting a series of projects to provide high-quality commercial space for businesses. It has helped bring to market almost 300,000 square feet of modern office, industrial, manufacturing and logistics space since the start of 2022, and expects to make further premises totalling more than a million sq ft available by the middle of 2025.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, comments: “Our local economy is growing and the investments we have made in modern attractive office space has helped bring new businesses into the town and created new jobs for our residents. Our investment coupled with our central location, culture of invention, competitive cost base and quality of life, is driving growth across the borough. Demand is soaring from local start-ups, relocating entrepreneurs from the likes of London, Leeds and Sheffield, and bigger businesses wanting more space or to consolidate their facilities in a single, central location.”

Tim Turner, Managing Director at Blue Deer Ltd, comments: “Chesterfield is a thriving business location and the perfect place for the mix of office and retail space we offer at The Glass Yard. Demand for space here has been particularly strong since we opened last year, both from local companies and incoming businesses.”

The Glassyard

The Glassyard

Dom Knowles, Head of Offices at FI Real Estate Management (FIREM), comments: “We’re passionate about putting Chesterfield on the map as a great place to work, improving its offering in line with nearby cities and enriching the lives of the local business community. We recently carried out a £1.2m refurbishment of The HQ to update the building to a Grade A workspace and we’re already receiving high levels of interest. The HQ offers excellent bespoke office solutions and benefits from well-connected rail and road transport networks, making it a great choice for businesses.”

HQ-Chesterfield-exterior

The HQ, Chesterfield

Chesterfield’s business population has grown by more than a fifth (21 per cent) in the last decade, creating 2,000 new jobs, including 1,800 high-value roles in sectors such as advanced manufacturing and professional services. The town recently published an ambitious growth strategy to attract 400 more businesses and 2,000 more jobs by 2030.

To find out more about the wide range of high-quality office spaces in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/office

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

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

Renovated tennis courts reopen in Staveley

Tennis courts in Staveley have officially reopened after a £130,000 renovation, and local youngsters can try out the new facilities at free taster sessions this month.

The courts in King George V Park were reopened at an official ceremony attended by Toby Perkins MP, Councillor Jonathan Davies, representatives from the Lawn Tennis Association and coaches from Tennis Chesterfield on Friday 4 August.

Extensive work has been undertaken to ensure the courts can be used by the community for many years to come, including resurfacing and painting, new fencing, new nets, and a new gate system. The improvements have been managed by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), and funded by the UK Government, LTA Tennis Foundation and Chesterfield Borough Council.

Refurbishment of the tennis courts follows on from a series of investments in the park including the installation of new play equipment, an outdoor gym and improvements to the bowling facilities, multi-use games area, and skate park. Together this has led to the park earning Green Flag status – an internationally recognised mark of quality parks and green spaces.

Councillor Jonathan Davies, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It’s fantastic to see these courts reopen.

“Public tennis facilities help people of all ages get more active. They also give visitors to our parks more quality options for their leisure.

“We’re committed to providing fantastic facilities in all our parks and investing in facilities like these tennis courts in Staveley, so everyone can enjoy our green spaces.”

Through the Parks Tennis Project, the LTA is delivering the biggest ever investment in parks tennis facilities across Britain, which has been used to transform the courts in Staveley, providing a significant boost to sporting facilities.

This nationwide programme of investment is seeing thousands of existing park tennis courts in poor or unplayable condition brought back to life for the benefit of communities across the country, providing vital opportunities for children and adults to get active.

Julie Porter, Chief Operating Officer at the LTA, said: “After months of hard work, we’re delighted to see park tennis courts in Staveley officially back open to the public, and in better shape than ever.

“Public tennis courts are such vital facilities for getting active and we want as many people as possible, of all ages and abilities, to pick up a racket and enjoy playing tennis. Thanks to this investment the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”

Stuart Andrew MP, Sports Minister, said: “We are committed to levelling up access to sport which is so important for the nation’s physical and mental health.

“The Government and the LTA are working together to deliver thousands of refurbished courts across Great Britain, supported by £30 million of investment including in Staveley.

“These improved tennis facilities in Staveley will provide the local community with fun opportunities to get active and potentially become the next Andy Murray or Emma Raducanu.”

As well as weekly free park tennis sessions, with equipment provided, the new courts will host Local Tennis Leagues, giving people the opportunity to get involved in friendly and social local competitions.

The LTA and Chesterfield Borough Council will work together to ensure free park tennis sessions are available on the courts, providing regular opportunities for anyone to pick up a racket and play.

If there are any issues with the courts like damaged nets or fencing, you can report this by either calling the council on 01246 345345 or reporting online at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/my-chesterfield

In August, Tennis Chesterfield will be hosting free taster sessions for children, which have been funded through the Holiday Activity Fund. Find out more about these sessions and book online: https://itsaboutmederbyshire.co.uk/

New booking systems and gate access technology means it is now easier for everyone to get on court by booking in advance to guarantee availability. The courts will be free throughout August and there will then be a small fee of £6 per hour to ensure that the courts are maintained at the new high standard for years to come.

Courts are available for the public to book via the LTA website: www.lta.org.uk/play

staveley tennis courts renovation

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

Robinson to create packaging for global designer Estee Lauder

Chesterfield manufacturer Robinson has been chosen to create luxury packaging for world-renowned designer, Estee Lauder’s ‘Aveda Parti Pris’ and ‘Mini and More’ boxes.

Robinson Paperbox Packaging has been commissioned to manufacture 2 promotional boxes for Estee Lauder’s premium haircare brand Aveda. Both boxes were made with a black lined board interior using a CMYK outer design which have a matt varnish and gloss UV varnish gloss finish.

Pierre-Alexandre Latimier – marketing assistant for Aveda EMEA commented: “We have used Robinson Paperbox Packaging for a number of projects previously. Their pricing and service levels are one of the main reasons we chose them for this project. With demanding lead times to work to it’s great to have a supplier that can deliver on time and in full.”

Jon Walker – new business development manager for Robinson Paperbox Packaging commented: “These boxes were manufactured on our new SATE rigid box line which has been recently installed. This machine is the most advanced on the market and produces exceptional quality boxes”.

Robinson were also recently awarded FSC ® certification for its Paperbox division.

FSC certification ensures that all products produced at Paperbox are sustainable. FSC-managed forests help provide clean air and water by restricting hazardous chemicals and following strict harvesting and forestry practices. Their work also helps ensure a diversity of animals, trees and plants as well as providing safe working conditions for everyone involved.

Robinson partners with some of the world’s most luxurious brands, from concept to commercialisation, creating widely recyclable packaging made from 100% post-consumer recycled material.

Chesterfield is home to several world-leading manufacturers, which benefit from the town’s proximity to the M1 motorway network and central location. Find out more about why Chesterfield is the perfect place to base your manufacturing business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

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

Robinson

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

North Wingfield community project chosen for national sustainability trial

A community project in North Wingfield has been selected to take part in a national trial, which looks to help consumers reduce their impact on the environment.

North Wingfield Community Garden scheme has been chosen to take part in a national composting trial run through a partnership between Natracare, creator of compostable disposable period products, and Social Farms & Gardens, a UK-wide charity, of which the North Wingfield group is a member.

The partnership sees Natracare providing insulated compost bins to Social Farms & Gardens’ specially selected community garden projects as a pilot scheme. The community gardens will compost garden and food waste, as well as Natracare products. The hot composting should take around six to eight weeks to turn green and brown waste into compost that is ready to use on the garden.

North Wingfield Community Garden scheme near Chesterfield is one of four women-led community garden schemes across the UK to receive a Natracare composting bin. Throughout the ongoing partnership, they will manage and maintain the hot composting process, monitoring and sharing the progress of the composting on their social channels. Additionally, using the Natracare Composting Guide, they will share the value of community composting and the benefits that composting period products has for the environment.

The Social Farms & Gardens partnership is the latest initiative in Natracare’s recently launched Project #BeKind campaign created to draw attention to the need to design health and well-being products for bio-loop systems and to consider the impact of consumer choices on our well-being and the environment.

North Wingfield Community Garden was set up at the start of 2021 as a space where people could safely gather to socialise in a post-lockdown world. Funded by the People’s Health Trust using money raised by Health Lottery East Midlands, the one-acre site is located on allotments at Alice’s View, North Wingfield, and produces a range of fruits and vegetables, all grown using organic and no-dig principles where possible.

It runs social gardening sessions and nature-connection crafting sessions every week. Over the last 12 months alone, more than 50 locals have participated in at least one of these sessions, and there is a core group of 15 regular volunteers who help out with garden maintenance.

Key volunteer and committee secretary Abi Grant said: “Having a hot composter available to us here at North Wingfield Community Garden opens up new opportunities for us to expand our knowledge and become even more sustainable, which is such an exciting thought—we can’t wait to get stuck in!”

north wingfield community garden

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

New sports massage therapy business opens in Chesterfield

A new sports massage therapy business has opened at The Nest in Chesterfield, a hub which houses several health and wellness organisations.

AM Sports Massage has been launched by Aaron Moore, who decided to follow his passion following the completion of several qualifications in sports coaching and sports therapy. Aaron recently qualified as a Level 3 sports massage therapist, allowing him to provide treatment for a wide range of injuries, aches and pains.

Aaron explained the range of treatments on offer for people in Chesterfield looking to recover from injury or help in boosting their physical performance.

He said: “I offer full body, 60/45/30 minute sports massage treatments. Sports massage treatment can also include Cupping Therapy and IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation). This is an excellent way to round up the sports massage treatment and feel more advanced benefits of the treatment and the techniques.

“Don’t let the name put you off, Sports Massage is for everybody! I have a range of clients who book in with various issues, or sometimes clients come just to relax and enjoy a massage. Ultimately the goal of the treatment is to achieve both physiological and psychological relaxation, as well as ensuring if there is any discomfort or pain, that this is focused on during the treatment time.”

Speaking on why he decided to open his business at The Nest, Aaron added: “I decided to open my business in Chesterfield as its where I’m from, and the opportunity came up at The Nest. It was a perfect fit, with the different therapies that also work from The Nest, it was the ideal place to set up my new business and begin my journey as a Sports Massage Therapist.

“My ambitions for the business are to eventually move to doing Sports Massage full-time, as it’s a passion of mine, and also my future plans are to complete the Level 4 Sports Massage, and further increase my skills, whilst learning new ones.”

To see the treatments that AM Sports Massage offers or to book your appointment, head over to the booking system here. The business can also be found on Instagram and Facebook.

Find out more about why Chesterfield is the perfect place to kickstart your business at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Check out our blog, which features a number of great hints and tips on getting your business started in Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/2023/01/get-your-business-idea-off-the-ground-in-chesterfield/

AM Sports massage

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

Businesses welcomed to express interest in new flexible units in Clay Cross

Businesses in the leisure and the food and beverage sectors can now express their interest in moving into one of several flexible units coming soon to the heart of Clay Cross.

Each 50 square-metre shell unit is self-contained but can be leased alone or in multiples for the short or long-term. Leases include full repairing and insuring.

Each unit comes with outdoor space in front of each unit and have dedicated delivery space at the rear. Free parking is available nearby and each unit will also be under CCTV coverage.

The units are estimated to be available for moving into by January 2025.

North East Derbyshire District Council Cabinet Member for Clay Cross Town Deal, Cllr Jayne Barry said: “We’re pleased to finally have discussions with business owners, or owners to be, about the opportunity to potentially become part of the new Broadleys town square.”

The Town Centre Regeneration project in Clay Cross is supporting several changes being made to revitalise the area, as part of the £24.1m Clay Cross Town Investment Plan.

The proposed masterplan covers four key elements:

  • Transport and connections improvements (subject to an upcoming consultation) – proposals include providing enhanced parking and access from the A61, improving traffic flow through the town, re-opening Bridge Street from Harris Way and the pedestrianisation of Market Street from Bridge Street to High Street.
  • Skills and Enterprise zone – renovating the clock tower building (Adult Education Centre) into a hub for learning and business engagement, which also includes a proposal to bring the library into the town centre.
  • Clay Cross Community/Social area – preserving, restoring and enhancing heritage buildings in the centre of the town, focused on restoring the annex of the clock tower building and creating a new leisure space fronting onto the proposed new town square area.
  • Broadleys site – forming a new town square as the heart between other elements of the Town Deal, providing flexible accommodation for start-up businesses in pop-up enterprise units and providing a space for community activities.

Work is well under way on this project, pending the business case approval from central government which is expected by the end of March 2023.

Looking to locate your business in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire? Find out more why our town is an ideal location to help your business grow at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Clay Cross

Birds’ eye view of Clay Cross Town Centre

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

Medical training and equipment provider moves to Chesterfield

A business which provides equipment and training to NHS Trusts, universities and colleges has opened a new facility in Chesterfield.

Sim & Skills will be based at the Peak Business Park on Foxwood Road in Sheepbridge, occupying the building which used to house local radio station, Peak FM.

The company be giving new life to the former studio, using the space to showcase its latest products with webinars and online demos.

The firm was founded during lockdown back in 2020, and since then has gone from strength-to-strength, becoming one of the fastest-growing distributors of Healthcare simulation and clinical skills trainers in the country.

The business is now a team of seven people, all of whom boast a wide range of healthcare simulation experience. It says the town’s central location and transport links make it an ideal place to grow. The new warehouse, office and training space have been created with the help of local businesses and suppliers.

Sim & Skills aims to provide the training equipment that doctors, nurses and health professionals need. Having the resource to practice with specialised equipment in a simulated hospital environment enhances skills and improves patient safety.

sim and skills team

The company has customers based across the country and beyond, and has already supported many local training providers, including Chesterfield College.

Managing Director Mark Cook said: “We’ve been searching for the ideal property for some time. When we saw Radio House in Chesterfield, we knew it was the one for us. The studio space is unusual but great for what we need. The building is a good size and will support us as we continue to grow.”

One visible change the company has made to the building is the installation of a defibrillator. As a medical training equipment provider, Sim & Skills believes it’s important to support the saving of lives. A spokesperson for the business commented: “We hope the defib is never needed, but if any of our Peak Business Park neighbours ever find themselves in an emergency situation, the defibrillator is there to be used and could save a life.”

Over the next year, Sim & Skills will continue to grow and aims to be the one-stop shop for medical training equipment. The business wants to offer customers the widest range of products and the best advice, so they can make an informed choice.

Sim & Skills also has plans to support the next generation of professionals as the business grows. Operations Director Chris Dinsdale said, “As we expand our warehouse and customer service team in Chesterfield, we’re really keen to help local young apprentices who have an interest in business and logistics.”

To find out more about what we do visit www.simandskills.co.uk, or via Twitter or Instagram.

Find out more about the benefits of locating your organisation in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

sim and skills

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Chesterfield-made drinks awarded two stars at prestigious Great Taste Awards 2023

Hogg Norton, an independent producer of fruit liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages has taken two stars at the Great Taste Awards 2023.

Great Taste is the world’s largest and most trusted food & drink accreditation scheme, with products across the world being put to the test by a panel of more than 500 experts.

Hogg Norton’s Rhubarb Liqueur and Gooseberry Liqueur have both been awarded two stars, meaning they have been rated as ‘outstanding.’

The producer has now won a total of 10 Great Taste Awards, after winning accolades in 2019, 2020 and 2021 for various products.

Michael Norton, Co-Owner at Hogg Norton commented: “We are so proud to win the awards, as it is judged by industry experts.

“Winning the awards shows that we consistently deliver a quality product which gives confidence to our customers and also makes us stand out against our competitors.  Having these international awards just shows what local producers can achieve and what amazing products are produced in Chesterfield.”

“It is so important that we use local products, as all our liqueurs are made from all-natural products and are free from any additives, preservatives, colours or flavourings – so the full flavour of the fruit comes through. Being based in Chesterfield and on the edge of the Peak District gives us a fantastic location to source our products.”

Other local winners from our area include Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop, which was given a two-star ‘outstanding’ award for its Chatsworth Honey Ale, and also Global Brands, which recieved a ‘simply delicious’ rating for a number of products across its ‘Franklin & Sons’ range of drinks.

Find out more about Chesterfield’s fantastic range of producers, retailers and food & drink businesses at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

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

Hogg Norton selling drinks at the Norton Arms

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

DBCP confirmed as sponsor for this weekend’s Eat in the Park festival

DBCP, the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, has been announced as one of the sponsors of Chesterfield’s inaugural Eat In The Park festival.

The exciting family-family food, drink and live music festival, which is already successfully established in Buxton, is coming to Queen’s Park in Chesterfield this weekend (5 – 6 August 2023.)

Thousands of people across Derbyshire are expected to attend the two-day festival which will showcase an array of local traders serving up food and drinks from around the world, as well as top tribute bands and magicians providing entertainment for all the family.

As part of the sponsorship, DBCP banners will be displayed throughout the festival. With many of the team based remotely, DBCP’s 30-strong team of building control surveyors and technical staff will also be using the event as an opportunity to get together.

Jake and George of Eat in the Park said “We are delighted to bring Eat in the Park to Chesterfield this year. To enable us to do this successfully we need to partner with brilliant local organisations and DBCP is certainly one of those. We are excited to showcase their sponsorship at the event and cannot wait to welcome the team to Queen’s Park on 5th and  6th August.”

David Pratt Building Control Manager explained: “DBCP has been a part of Chesterfield’s business community since 2015 and we see our sponsorship of Eat in the Park as an excellent opportunity to both support the town and showcase who we are and what we do to property owners and residents throughout the area.

“DBCP is not just here for our communities in times of emergency, when buildings are compromised, we are to provide advice and support to help ensure properties meet the legal requirements of Building Regulations and are safe, secure and energy efficient for all users.”

Most recently DBCP has overseen building control for Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s new £24million A&E department. The department has been labelled “a jewel in Chesterfield’s crown.” The new building is the hospital’s largest development in almost 40 years and can accommodate 115,000 patients per year.

John Taylor, Senior Building Control Surveyor at DBCP who issued the Building Control certificate for the completed A&E building in April this year praised its high standard of construction saying: “I am very impressed at what has been achieved at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. It is a building everyone can be proud of.”

DBCP is the amalgamation of eight Local Authority Building Control services across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, including Amber Valley Borough Council, Bolsover District Council, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derby City Council, Derbyshire Dales District Council, High Peak Borough Council, North East Derbyshire District Council, and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.

David added: “The team and I are looking forward to attending Eat In The Park. It will be a fantastic event for Chesterfield.”

The two-day festival is a ticketed event with under 5s free. Tickets can be purchased at www.eatinthepark.uk/visitor-information

Find out more about the fantastic range of events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer on our Summer in Chesterfield page.

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

Eat in the Park Main Stage

Eat in the Park Main Stage

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How an apprenticeship could kickstart your career in retail

Are you good with people? Do you like to provide excellent customer service and leave people with smiles on their faces? Then a career in the retail, food and drink industry could be the one for you.

The road to a new career can sometimes be daunting, but it is also an exciting time of discovery, learning and new experiences.  With a range of different routes into the sector, hear from two individuals who started out as apprentices and how this has helped them build a successful career.

Why should I start a career in retail, food and drink?

Man stood behind desk with 'ETS' written on it

The retail sector is extremely varied with roles to suit everyone. Perhaps you’d like a customer service-facing role, working with members of the public to ensure they have a positive experience. Or maybe you would prefer working behind the scenes in an organisational role. Whatever your interest, there are plenty of opportunities to consider including front of house, chef or sales advisor.

The industry can be fast-paced and exciting. If you like to be kept on your toes, working in this sector guarantees that no two days are the same. Careers in retail will also help you build lots of skills, from problem-solving to communication, making you very employable.

In Chesterfield, more than 20 businesses have invested in the town centre in the last year. This, as well as the lively market town and borough-wide attractions and events, makes it the perfect place to start your career in retail. With plenty of customers coming to explore the town, might you be the one to serve them?

Success stories: why an apprenticeship?

Brandon Howard, Level 4 Marketing Executive at Vicar Lane

Man in a black shirt standing next to a storage trolley with boxes

 

After working in a bank, Brandon decided to become self-employed and started creating videos and social media content. He then took on a Level 3 Marketing Course. This lead to his current role as a Level 4 Marketing Executive at Vicar Lane shopping centre.

Why did you become an apprentice?

I became an apprentice because I wanted the opportunity to be in full-time employment whilst progressing my learning journey. This was something that would not be available to me in other routes of education, such as University or College.

What’s it like working in the food, drink, and retail sector and what do you enjoy?

As the Centre Administrator for Vicar Lane shopping centre, I have an overview of all the food, drink and retail shops within the centre. Working with the shops to ensure that their messages are passed on via social media is an important factor of what we do. One of my main roles within the team is being a point of contact for the public, including organising events and working with local businesses. I really enjoy the scope of what we do and how it can influence my own learning/career journey.

What did you enjoy about your apprenticeship?

I enjoyed the idea of splitting time between learning and working. It felt good to know that I was still earning an income whilst also increasing my knowledge in a related field of education. My employers provided dedicated studying time for me. I was allowed to shut my office door and crack on with whatever tasks I needed to do. The support from my line manager was also beneficial as she was studying a similar course and it helped to compare viewpoints with someone in a similar field.

How did your apprenticeship help you progress into your career today?

I transitioned from the Apprentice Centre Administrator role at my employment to the standard, full time Centre Administrator role once it had been completed. It felt great knowing that not only had I achieved a qualification, I was also now in full-time employment on a standard salary. I believe it has opened up new opportunities for my career going forwards. I can’t wait to see what the future brings.

What would be your advice for someone considering a career in the food, drink, and retail sector?

I would advise choosing something that you feel passionate about and have a keen interest in. There’s nothing worse than starting a new job/apprenticeship that you immediately dislike! Choose something with open progression/learning options so that you can be constantly growing. Always be open to new challenges or tasks.

Curtis Newsome, Branch Manager at Eden Tyres

Curtis Newsome branch manager

My name is Curtis & I’m the branch manager at Eden Tyres & Servicing in Chesterfield. Even though I’ve only been at the branch for a few months now, I’ve been with Eden for nearly 5 years. I started off as an apprentice at the Burton On Trent branch. I’ve since become a qualified MOT tester as well as service technician. I have also really developed my customer service skills.

How did your apprenticeship help start your career in the retail, food and drink industry?

The Eden Tyres & Servicing academy is an apprenticeship programme that actively takes on applicants throughout the year. My assistant manager, Jack, and I both started off as apprentices. We have worked our way through the business to where we are today. The programme itself allowed me to learn and develop my industry skills, whilst also learning about the importance of customer care. With 3 active apprentices in the company and many more that are now fully qualified employees Eden have always focused on investing in their future staff.

Why do you love working in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire?

I love the customers that we get here in Chesterfield. Everyone is always friendly and has a smile on their face. Car repairs can sometimes be a real mood killer, but I’d like to think that the team here do their best to make having a car in the workshop as pleasant and easy as possible. Working in Chesterfield is great, the people are really down to earth, and the local scenery is beautiful. We love having the new Glass Yard at the back of the branch. It’s been great seeing the local area develop.

Find out more about the apprentice programme and careers at Eden Tyres.

Feeling inspired?

There are lots of apprenticeship providers in Chesterfield and, with affordable housing and great transport links, we’re sure the decision to start your career in here is the right one. If you feel excited about the possibility of starting a career in the retail industry, take a look at the career routes on offer with Chesterfield businesses. Brandon and Curtis were once sat where you are now – maybe it will be your story we share soon.

Browse apprenticeship vacancies in Chesterfield…

 

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Chesterfield Champions announce further success and growth

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have announced further growth and successes.

Firms including Roaring Mouse Public Relations, Banner Jones Solicitors and MTM Products and Pinelog Ltd. have announced exciting news in recent weeks.

Find out about the latest growth and success stories from across our town in the roundup below.

Roaring Mouse Public Relations partners with Scottish robotics firm

James Taylor Roaring Mouse

A remote robotics company focused on subsea operations, has appointed specialist B2B technology PR and content agency Roaring Mouse to help support strategic communications as the company moves to its next round of fundraising.

Based in Aberdeen, HonuWorx combines autonomous submarines, robotics, AI and advanced communications technologies to reduce the risk, cost and carbon footprint of subsea exploration and intervention. It enables a wide range of subsea activities to occur without humans having to leave shore.

HonuWorx has engaged Roaring Mouse to reach and help establish a ‘SpaceX of Subsea’ reputation for the company with prospects and potential partners in the European defence, offshore energy and ‘blue economy’ sectors, as well as potential investors.

James Taylor, managing director of Roaring Mouse, comments: “HonuWorx is a true pioneer with a fantastic robotics, AI and communications proposition, a great team and a fascinating ‘SpaceX of subsea’ story to tell. The technology it is bringing to market could fundamentally change subsea access in much the same way SpaceX is opening up access to space, and we are thrilled to be on board.”

New hires and investment for MTM Products

MTM Jess Gardiner

There have been some recent changes at MTM Products Ltd to cater for expanding business: such as a new office for the design estimating and sales teams and new hires.

Over the last 47 years, MTM have established themselves as one of the leading UK industrial graphics suppliers.

MTM Products’ Managing Director , Mark Niblett said: “We have recently invested in new, modern equipment for screen and digital printing and finishing equipment and a digital transformation programme.

“We have expanded our workforce in areas like management accountancy and sales and continue to value our workers with longevity awards across the company.

“Our latest edition to the team is Jess Gardiner, joining the design and estimation team.  Jess has recently located from East London – a city in South Africa and has settled in Chesterfield with her husband.

“The business has historically been situated in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, where we have two facilities (two factory units: 0.5km apart). Being in this central region of the country, we are ideally located for distribution throughout the UK, with great transport links to major motorways, ports and airfreight.”

“MTM supply other original equipment manufacturers in the UK & EU particularly: automotive, electrical & electronic, rail, medical, construction and machinery equipment. We provide industry-specific stock management systems including lineside stocking, buffer stocks & call off orders.

“We pride ourselves on our technical/applications engineering expertise, friendly teams, competitive prices and MTM Express quick turnaround service.”

Banner Jones advises on acquisition of Nottinghamshire quality cast stone products manufacturer

Andrew Fielder 873

Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department has acted for the shareholders in the sale of Nottinghamshire based stone products manufacturer Serene Stone Limited’s shares to Nene Capital.

The business, which boasts a wide range of quality architectural cast stone dressings and concrete solutions, has been acquired by Nene Capital, which will now look to accelerate the business’s growth trajectory over the coming years.

Primarily investing in UK-based SMEs, Nene Capital concentrates on realising long-term value and maintains an active role in commercial operations to support the delivery of strong financial outcomes.

Founded in 2011, the company has been involved in the design and supply of stone materials for highly bespoke projects across the luxury housing and commercial markets.

As part of the deal, Andrew Fielder Head of Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department – supported by colleague and employment law expert, Katie Ash – advised the sellers on the transactional sale, as well as on the Settlement Agreements and on their Consultancy Agreements with the buyer moving forwards.

Andrew commented: “It was a pleasure to assist Christopher and Paul with the sale of the business that they have worked so hard to develop. All of the professionals involved in the transaction worked very much in partnership, and I am sure that the business will continue to grow and succeed.”

Superior Wellness Appoints New Finance Director

James Orton superior wellness

Superior Wellness has  announced the appointment of James Orton as the new Finance Director. With over 20 years’ experience across a broad range of sectors, he brings a wealth of experience to the role.

With an impressive career spanning more than two decades, James brings exceptional financial expertise and strategic leadership to his new position.

Before joining Superior Wellness, James was CFO of Nuvias UC Limited, a specialist IT Distributor operating across Europe.

A highly experienced, Financial Board Executive with over 10 years extensive grounding at PwC and a further 10 years of varied experience in industry. His unique experience includes an extensive Corporate M&A track record across multiple sectors and territories and that of financial leadership for fast growing businesses.

As the Finance Director, James will play a pivotal role in shaping Superior Wellness’ financial strategy and driving sustainable growth. He will oversee all financial operations working closely with the Senior Management Team to support the company’s expansion plans and long-term vision.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “We are delighted to welcome James Orton to the Superior Wellness team. His extensive experience and proven track record as a financial leader make him an excellent addition to the team.

“We are confident that James will contribute significantly to our continued success as we continue to grow globally. James’ experience will continue to strengthen our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with him.”

New Finance Director James Orton said: “I am very excited to join the team here at Superior Wellness. The business is extremely well placed for further significant growth, building upon the strong foundations in place due to the quality of its partner relationships, product offerings, and its people.

Based in Chesterfield, Superior Wellness is the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer with a network of global partners.

New appointment for Pinelog set to drive sales in independent holiday park sector

Judy Barwell - Pinelog

Judy Barwell has joined Chesterfield-based Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings, as Sales Account Manager.

She joins from Adlington, a developer of award-winning retirement developments. Within her new role Judy will work alongside Associate Director Paula Skelton in driving forward the company’s ambitions to increase its share of lodge supply to the holiday park sector.

She commented: “I am really excited to be working with such a high quality product that uses natural materials. The sustainability credentials of Pinelog are very important to me both personally and professionally.”

Judy, who lives in Dronfield, brings experience in property sales as well as having a design background. She previously worked in a range of design, development and supply chain roles in the clothing industry, as well as lecturing in design for a number of years.

She explained: “The role at Pinelog combines my technical, design and sales experience. As well as understanding the production process, I am able to guide purchasers through the entire process from initial enquiry to the design and delivery of a lodge.”

Her appointment follows the company’s relocation to a new, larger site in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, earlier this year. Prior to its relocation the company had been based in Bakewell since being founded in 1974.

The new, larger site at Sheepbridge has enabled the company to bring its entire production process under one roof, increasing both jobs and production of its class-leading lodges.

As well as the production of complete holiday lodges, components for the construction of timber Glulam framed commercial buildings designed and built by Pinelog are also manufactured at the site.

Welcoming Judy to Pinelog, Nick Grayson, Chairman of Pinelog Group, said: “Judy’s appointment and our move to the new facility marks a new chapter in Pinelog’s story; one which has seen us modernise, invest in new technology and further improve the business to help holiday park operators capitalise on the ongoing demand for staycations.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is the perfect location to base your business at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/

Roaring Mouse, MTM Products, Banner Jones and Superior Wellness and Pinelog 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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