Love Chesterfield

Chesterfield car dealership wins prestigious Mercedes Benz award

A car dealership based in Chesterfield has been recognised by Mercedes Benz as one of the best performing across the UK.

JCT600 was the company’s ‘Retailer of the Year’ for 2022, based on its ‘outstanding performance in every area of the business, including new car sales, customer service, approved used car sales, workshop retail hours and customer retention’.

Gary Savage, chief executive and managing director, Mercedes-Benz Cars UK, said: “JCT600 performed consistently strongly across all areas of the business and the team’s collaboration was nothing short of outstanding, with remarkable engagement and positivity.”

Michelle Caveney, Mercedes-Benz brand director for JCT600 said, “It is a fantastic achievement to be recognised in these prestigious awards which celebrate the very best of Mercedes-Benz’s partners throughout the UK.

“This accolade is testament to the hard work and passion of the 200-plus strong team across our five Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Derbyshire, South Yorkshire and North Yorkshire, demonstrating their customer-centric approach and continued ability to deliver exceptional service. Ensuring that customers have the very best experience when they visit us is at the heart of what we do – our thanks go to all of our colleagues who make this possible.”

Mercedes-Benz of Chesterfield is located on Lockoford Lane and is part of the JCT600 group who have represented Mercedes-Benz for over 20 years. The dealership showcases a wide choice of brand new and Mercedes-Benz Approved Used vehicles. In addition, customers can also access a range of aftersales care including servicing, MOTs, warranty work, parts and accessories.

Centrally located in the UK, Chesterfield is superbly connected, has an abundance of new business premises and room to grow. Well served by the M1 and the Midland Mainline Chesterfield is within one hour’s drive of four major airports and London is under two hours by rail.

The town and local area has a great pool of talent for all types of business from world leading specialist manufacturers and multi-national communications companies to retailers and distributors. Find out more here.

jct600 award

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Record financial year for Global Brands

Chesterfield-based drinks business, Global Brands, has announced a record breaking financial year, which ended on 30 September 2022.

The firm owns a portfolio including Franklin & Sons, Hooch, VK, and more. It has reported double-digit turnover growth for financial year 2022, driven by record international growth, successful NPD launches including Lustre liqueurs, and canned cocktail and RTD sales.

The company has reported a 26.6% increase in turnover, rising to £84.4 million, versus sales of £66.6 million in the 20/21 financial year.

The Derbyshire-based company is now the biggest supplier of branded canned cocktails to the UK off trade, and the biggest supplier of ready to drink products into the UK on premises across their portfolio. The company’s portfolio of drinks brands includes VK, Hooch, Franklin & Sons, All Shook Up, Shake Baby Shake, Corky’s, Beviamo, Kick Energy, Lustre, and Amigos Tequila Beer.

Global Brands also reported a 50% increase in international business. Having launched Franklin & Sons in the USA in 2019, just as the pandemic struck, the international arm of the business is now seeing significant growth, reaching £5 million in turnover for the first time in the history of the business.

Steve Perez, Founder and Chairman at Global Brands said: “Global Brands, the UK’s leading independent drinks business, has had another fantastic year. 21/22 has been our sixth successive year of growth, almost doubling our turnover in the last five years.

“We’ve recently purchased the trademarks for Hooch, Hooper’s, and Reef from Molson Coors, and have lots of exciting new products in the pipeline. We’re now the biggest supplier of branded canned cocktails in the UK off trade, and the biggest supplier of RTDs into the on trade.

“Franklin & Sons is now the second biggest premium tonic in the UK on trade, and we’ve seen fantastic growth for the brand in the UK and especially internationally, in markets in Asia, through Europe, and from our newly opened office in the USA.

“We’re unique in that we create everything in-house, from design, marketing, and NPD through to the distribution of our brands from here in Chesterfield and Clay Cross – areas where we’ve invested just under £3 million in the last year. From our base in Derbyshire, we employ almost 200 people, and our success is down to the fantastic teams that drive these brands forward.

“While economic conditions have been challenging in the six months since we’ve published our accounts, especially in regard to energy and raw material costs, we’re confident going forward that the company will continue its momentum in the next financial year.”

Global Brands has started financial year 22/23 in a strong position. Late last year saw the hard launch of premium tonics, sodas, and soft drinks brand Franklin & Sons into the USA, to further capitalise on international growth, while the company acquired the trademarks for Hooch, Hooper’s, and Reef from Molson Coors, investing in the brands with the security of owning the equity.

Alongside this, Global Brands has launched an all-new VK & SODA extension for their no.1 RTD for students eight years running, VK. The new range delivers on demand for zero sugar and lower calorie drinks, while retaining the flavourful and tasty essence of the original VK range, engaging with RTD consumers, and attracting the segment of consumers that opt for beverages with fewer calories than typical RTDs.

A £2 million expansion of the Global Brands Distribution Centre was also recently completed, increasing capacity from 30 million to 40 million products stored.

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.

Global Brands Distribution Centre

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Property and Construction firms to highlight key commercial opportunities in Chesterfield at UK’s largest trade show

Did you know that Chesterfield’s business population has grown by 21% over the past decade, with more commercial opportunities in Chesterfield on the way? A total of 2,000 new jobs have been created, including 1,800 high-value roles in sectors such as advanced manufacturing and professional services.

Chesterfield is continuing on its ambitious path. The town aims to attract a further 400 businesses and 2,000 more jobs by 2030. With this goal in mind, it is vital to spread the message about the area’s exciting regeneration plans and commercial opportunities.

Property and construction businesses across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are highlighting the wide range of investment opportunities in our town at the UK’s largest trade show, UKREiiF. The event is taking place in Leeds from Tuesday 16th-Thursday 18th May 2023.

Delegates from the town will be highlighting our area’s key development sites in several panel discussions. Including the ‘Journey to Zero’ transport hub at the PEAK tourism destination.

They will speak to potential investors about the excellent strategic location of Chesterfield and the importance of transport infrastructure opening up major regeneration sites.

Furthermore, members from Chesterfield’s Property & Construction Group will fly the flag for our town at the event. Businesses will be making attendees aware of the various projects which they are working on. Firms will also support Destination Chesterfield in spreading  the message of the area’s exciting commercial opportunities.

Find out more below on how firms will be Championing Chesterfield at UKREiiF 2023.

Whittam Cox Architects

Andrew Dabbs

A panel discussion at UKREiiF will outline the potential benefits of a devolution deal for Chesterfield and the wider region. The panel will include Chesterfield Property and Construction Group chair, Andy Dabbs, who is also a director at Whittam Cox Architects.

In addition, delegates will have the opportunity to discuss how the private sector can complement and enhance the newest and largest devolution deal in England. The deal is set to leverage at least £38m per year over 30 years.

Andy commented: “I’m very pleased to be collaborating with D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership and showcasing Chesterfield’s portfolio of investment opportunities.”

“Our town possesses a strong relationship between the public and private sector. This is continuing to bring forward an impressive pipeline of regeneration and economic growth.

“The East Midlands Devolution deal will ensure more funding for our region, and further promote Chesterfield as an ideal place to invest.”

Wilmott Dixon Construction Ltd.

Jenna Frudd Wilmott Dixon - highlighting commercial opportunities at UKREiiF

Jenna Frudd, Business & Relationship Manager at Wilmott Dixon commented: “I’m thrilled to be attending this year’s UKREIIF and supporting the fantastic work being done in the development of Chesterfield.

“The town is a prime example of a ‘hidden gem’ town. It’s incredibly welcoming and has a local council and business community that is open to conversations.

“What’s great about UKREIIF is that it provides a fantastic opportunity to attract further investment. With all towns, there needs to be promise of change and excitement of active projects bubbling under in order to help it truly thrive. There is absolutely that happening in Chesterfield.”

FI Real Estate Management Ltd.

The HQ Chesterfield

The team at FI Real Estate Management is highlighting one of the key commercial opportunities in Chesterfield, The HQ.

Dominic Knowles, Head of Offices at FI Real Estate Management said: “Our colleagues attending UKREiff will be networking with business members and leaders at the event, promoting our recent £2m investment at The HQ and discussing the benefits of enhancing investment opportunities for the Chesterfield business community.

“We are passionate about putting Chesterfield on the map as a great place to work by providing Grade A office facilities. This improves Chesterfield’s business prospects, offering workspace fit to rival that of neighbouring cities. In addition, it makes the market town the first choice for future businesses looking to invest.

“Since our investment in the market town began in 2019, we have witnessed significant further investment in Chesterfield. This has had a positive impact on the local business community. It is extremely important for us to draw on our experience in Chesterfield so far, and share this with other business leaders.”

Harworth Group

Investment Chesterfield Harworth Group - Highlighting commercial opportunities at UKREiiF

Joanne Neville, Regional Head of Planning at Harworth Group commented: “Harworth is one of the leading land and property regeneration companies in the UK. The company manages over 13,000 acres across around 100 sites in the North of England and the Midlands.

“Harworth sites serve as exemplars of successful large-scale regeneration, with the business working alongside a range of partners. This also includes part of the allocated Staveley Works site in Chesterfield. 600 new homes are proposed for the site, with a planning application currently pending consideration.

“The Harworth team are always looking for exciting new investment opportunities for acquisitions and partnerships. Harworth will be returning to UKREiiF in 2023 with an even bigger delegation and exhibition space. Join them at the Harworth Regeneration Pavilion (Pavilion 7) for an extensive programme of thought-provoking panel sessions. Additionally, the company will host regional showcases and networking events, with some of the industry’s leading experts.”

Inspire Design & Development Ltd.

Gemma Inspire Design & Development - Chesterfield Champions

Colleagues at Inspire Design & Development Ltd. are excited to be attending this year’s showcase, which they believe promises to be even bigger and better.

Gemma Brewster, Commercial Executive commented: “At Inspire we are passionate about inspiring great places for people to live, work and play. A key part of our strategic approach to achieve this is collaboration. During the three-day event, we will be attending a number of fringe events in the city and holding meetings with new and existing connections.

“Not only will we be discussing future opportunities and building upon those relationships, but we will also be helping to raise the profile of Chesterfield by promoting our current projects in the area such as PEAK.

“We may be slightly biased, but we are very excited about the progress of this development as we feel Peak has the potential to dramatically increase the towns tourism offer which will help boost the Chesterfield economy and showcase the town. We are excited to see how the project evolves over the coming years.

Chesterfield Borough Council offers a free, efficient service to help you find the perfect premises for your business. Find out more about the range of available commercial opportunities in Chesterfield here.

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Chesterfield Champions continue support for local communities and charities

Chesterfield businesses and organisations are continuing their work to bring the community together with a number of initiatives to support local people and charities.

Find out about the latest community efforts from our Chesterfield Champions in the roundup below:

Vicar Lane to host Eurovision party under the big screen

Movie Night Vicar Lane

On Saturday 13th May, Vicar Lane will be bringing the party from day to night as they welcome visitors for a glittering get together to celebrate Eurovision.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy the table tennis and giant games in St James’ Square. There will be fun to be had at Vicar Lane’s shimmer wall where visitors can pose for selfies with Eurovision themed props for the chance to win dinner for two at Pizza Pi and two drinks at Chandlers Bar.

From 5pm, the pre party will begin with a live DJ to change the tempo, whilst local bar Chandlers serve up signature cocktails from their pop-up bar which will be located in front of the big screen in St James’ Square. Visitors will then be invited to pull up a deckchair for a free viewing of the Eurovision final at 8pm.

Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: “This will be a really fun memorable event with flamboyant entertainers and lots of quintessential glitter – perfect for celebrating the Eurovision final. We’re really pleased to be partnering with Pizza Pi and Chandlers Bar to offer great food and drink deals to partygoers too.”

Hospice aims to break end of life taboos over coffee and cake

ashgate death cafe

Frank discussions about death over a cup of coffee and cake will be had when Ashgate Hospice hosts a unique Death Café this Sunday.

The North Derbyshire charity is inviting people to attend the free event at The Batch House food hall in Chesterfield on Sunday 14th May.  

The Death Café, which takes place between 3pm and 5pm, aims to increase awareness of death and dying with a view to help people make the most of life.  

From discussing what music people want played at their funeral to fearing the death of a loved one – the hospice’s no-judgement session is open to anyone. 

The conversation, although led by a facilitator, will become a natural exploration of the group’s thoughts and feeling towards the end of life.     

Shelagh Freeman, End of Life Facilitator at Ashgate Hospice, who has helped organise the event, said: “It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but perhaps a coffee and a slice of cake is just the ticket to get people to talk about a subject that is often avoided! 

“Despite the events of the past three years people still find death and talking about it uncomfortable, but talking about death can only be a good thing.

  “Not only does coming to terms with your mortality mean you’re more likely to live life to the full, but being open about it means we can support each other, our families and ourselves when the time may come.

“Our Death Cafe doesn’t have to be a morbid concept – it’s an opportunity to share a safe space, have open and honest conversations and make the most of our finite lives. We’re all going to die so we might as well eat cake and talk about it!”  

Derbyshire Voluntary Action supports local community to spot the early signs of bowel cancer

Derbyshire Voluntary Action is continuing to raise awareness of bowel cancer signs, symptoms and the importance of screening with a focus on areas in Derbyshire where screening uptake is traditionally low.

These include areas within Chesterfield, Erewash and Bolsover.

The organisation is engaging with local businesses, organisations and individuals sharing the message that early detection saves lives

The ‘Be Cancer SAFE’ message is simple:

• Screening – Participate in screening when invited
• Awareness – Be aware of any changes in your body
• Fast – If you notice changes, act fast. Contact your GP
• Early – Early detection saves lives. Recognise the symptoms and act promptly

Bowel cancer is the 4th most common cancer in the UK and affects 1 in 15 men and 1 in 18 women. The disease is treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early. 9 in 10 people survive if diagnosed in the early stages.

The project employs a community approach to improving cancer survival, creating a network of Be Cancer SAFE champions who help to remove barriers and normalise conversations about cancer.

People can help to raise awareness by:

• Encouraging friends, family and colleagues to visit the GP if they notice unusual changes to their bodies
• Raising awareness of cancer symptoms and screening within your community
• Spread the #BeCancerSafe message

Kat Johnson, who is a project worker for the campaign says: “4 in 10 people cannot name a symptom of bowel cancer, we want to change that. We want as many people as possible to recognise signs and symptoms at the earliest opportunity and take the chance to be screened or contact their GP if they have any concerns”

Accountancy Recruitment Group to take on ’30K in a day’ challenge

Walkers in Holmebrook Valley Country Park

Chesterfield’s Accountancy Recruitment Group is taking on a huge charity challenge to support local charity, Fairplay. The ’30k in a day’ walk will take place in some stunning places, including hiking up and reaching the summit of 7 fells.

Lauren Stubbs, Business Consultant at the company commented: “We will be tackling The Old Man of Coniston, Grey Friar, Crinkle Crags, Great Knott, Pike of Blisco, Little Carrs and Wetherlam – we’ll reach 859m elevation at our highest point. There are around 25 of us altogether and we are hoping to raise as much money as possible for this amazing charity.

Fairplay supports children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, and their families, across North Derbyshire. They offer a wide range of services to meet the needs of families- providing  support to children and young people, aged 0-30, and to parents and siblings.

Speaking on how important it is to support local community groups and charities in Chesterfield, Lauren said: “There are some amazing causes and local charities which are bringing so much into the community. Often you won’t hear about these charities vs some of the larger ones but they are equally as important- and fundraising events like this are essential to give as much back to the charity as they do for the community.”

To support the charity effort, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/team/fairplay

Derbyshire Voluntary Action, Ashgate Hospice, Vicar Lane, Accountancy Recruitment Group and Fairplay 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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Chesterfield ranked 2nd in list of UK’s best places to raise a family

Chesterfield has been recognised by travel guide website, enjoytravel.com as the best town in England, and the 2nd best in the UK to raise a family.

The town sits above major cities such as Leeds, Leicester and Newcastle to take 2nd spot on the list, thanks to its ‘affordable and appealing houses and excellent schooling options.’

Enjoytravel.com ranked the towns and cities based on three criteria:

  • Property prices and average salaries (house price-to-income ratio) – 30 points
  • Education – 20 points
  • Safety – 20 points

Other factors such as access to green spaces, transport links and family-friendly attractions were also considered.

Explaining why Chesterfield positioned so highly, the website stated: “The Derbyshire town of Chesterfield is the second-best place to raise a family in the whole of the UK, thanks to its affordable and appealing houses and excellent schooling options. It might be the county’s largest town, but it has managed to retain its friendly, welcoming character despite new developments cropping around the outskirts of the town. It’s a top choice for families who love the ‘Great Outdoors’ too, as it’s just a stone’s throw from the rugged Peak District and a plethora of wildlife reserves and reservoirs.

“House prices currently average £220,825 for properties in the town centre and picturesque suburbs like Holymoorside and Wingerworth. And, when it comes to good schools, the town is brimming with them. Schools like Westfield Infant School, St Mary’s Catholic High School and Parkside Community School have all been rated as ‘outstanding’ or ‘good’ by Ofsted.”

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions agreed that the area has all the key assets required as a great place to raise a family.

Nigel Mallender, Head of Sales & Marketing at Addooco IT commented: “I’m very proud to call Chesterfield my home. I cannot imagine living anywhere else and that’s down to the friendly people and the community spirit.

“Chesterfield is great for families with its huge range of parks, play centres, sporting appeal and family friendly pubs and restaurants. For history lovers there’s the likes of Hardwick Hall, Bolsover Castle, the Peak District and many other places close by.

“Chesterfield is so well connected and great for business too with Sheffield and Nottingham on the doorstep, East Midlands Airport within 45 minutes’ drive and London only two hours away by train.”

Nigel Mallender

Nigel Mallender, Addooco IT

Theresa Goldsmith, owner of The Goldsmith Clinic added: “Chesterfield has something for everyone – the perfect balance of convenience and serenity. I personally love the countryside, and living in chesterfield has the luxury of easy access to town, city and the countryside.”

The Goldsmith Clinic defibrillator

Theresa Goldsmith, Owner of The Goldsmith Clinic

“Nick Gorman, Owner of CCM Change Consultancy said: Chesterfield is now definitely where I call home. Moving to Chesterfield 14 years ago I quickly found the town had all the things I find vital – community, good links, football, cricket, a great food and drink scene and proximity to our beautiful Peak District.”

Nick Gorman - CCM

Nick Gorman, CCM Change Consultancy

Speaking on achieving 2nd place on the list, Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield manager said: “We are absolutely delighted by the news that enjoytravel.com has named Chesterfield as the best place in England, and the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family.”

“Our town is blessed with affordable properties and great outdoor spaces on the doorstep of the Peak District.

“We’re also placed ideally in the centre of the country, with fantastic road and rail connectivity, superb local amenities, and strong and supportive communities.

“Chesterfield really does have all the ingredients required to help families build rewarding and happy lives.”

Kooca Chesterfield

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New game arrives at Chesterfield Escape Rooms

One of the town’s independent attractions, Chesterfield Escape Rooms has announced another new game – providing yet more fun for visitors.

‘The Big Hangover’ is the latest addition to the venue’s impressive selection of challneges, which tests the brain power of all who take part. It comes off the back of other recent editions, such as ‘An hour to kill’ and ‘Eerie Motel California.’

Nick Hogan, Manager of Chesterfield Escape Rooms explained what people can expect from playing ‘The Big Hangover:

“You may have seen the film, the hangover…well it’s loosely based on that story. You awake, a little worse for wear in a police cell and you have lost the groom (Arthur),  the wedding is in 60 minutes and you have to solve all of the clues to free him.”

the big hangover escape rooms

The centre has continued to grow, now offering more experiences than ever before since its opening in 2021.

Nick explained: “We are blown away by how successful the games have been so far. We want people to keep coming back so we have to deliver a great product and a great service.

“We have constantly been refreshing over the last 7 months and at roughly £20k per game, we are delighted to be able to say our refreshes are over for a little while. We have a lot of variety now so we hopefully have something for everyone.”

Chesterfield Escape Rooms is open 7 days a week in the centre of Chesterfield.

Participants are tasked to work together, discover clues, solve puzzles, and accomplish tasks in one or more rooms, in order to progress and successfully accomplish an exit in a 60-minute period. Every game is managed by a games master, designated solely to your entertainment and safety.

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

nick escape rooms

Nick Hogan, Manager of Chesterfield Escape Rooms

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Chesterfield businesses urged to enter King’s Awards for Enterprise 2024

Firms in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire have been urged to seek the royal seal of approval for their achievements by entering the UK’s most prestigious business awards.

East Midlands Chamber is encouraging companies to enter the King’s Awards for Enterprise 2024, which opened for entries over the coronation weekend.

They will recognise organisations for their achievements across innovation, international development, sustainable development and promoting opportunity through social mobility.

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Our region is full of fantastic companies that are breaking new ground in their sectors, delivering goods and services across the world, and demonstrating how business can be a force for good – which is why we are so keen to talk about the East Midlands being a Centre of Trading Excellence.

“Now, it’s time to start spreading the word about just how great we are on a global stage and we would encourage businesses to shout about their achievements far and wide.

“The King’s coronation was a tremendous occasion that brought the best of our country together, so what better time to use this as an opportunity to showcase the best of our region’s business community by entering the King’s Awards for Enterprise.

“It was exciting to see eight companies with links to our region – including six Chamber members – recognised in the 2023 awards but it would be great to grow this number in 2024 and really put the East Midlands on the map.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise 2024 are free to enter and the deadline is midday on 12 September 2023. Applicants can enter multiple categories via an online process.

Shortlisted organisations will be notified in October and winners notified in March 2024, with unsuccessful organisations receiving feedback on their applications around the same time.

The list of winners is officially announced in the London Gazette on 6 May 2024 and representatives will be invited to attend a royal reception next summer.

Awards recipients are permitted to fly the King’s Awards for Enterprise flag at their main office and use the emblem in marketing materials for five years.

They will also receive an official certificate known as a grant of appointment and a commemorative crystal trophy.

For more information about eligibility criteria and to apply for the King’s Awards for Enterprise 2024, visit www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise.

A webinar for Chesterfield businesses will be taking place on Wednesday, 21st June with award writing expert, Lucinda White from Pure Awards – who will cover the entry process, what to consider when entering the awards, and how to make practical in-roads into preparing the content.

Find out more and book your place at the event here.

Growth Sculpture Horns bridge Roundabout

 

 

 

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Complete our Love Chesterfield survey to have an opportunity to win a prize

Chesterfield residents and local business owners are being encouraged to complete our quarterly consumer and business surveys to help us to learn more about how you / your customers use services in our town centres.

Love Chesterfield is a campaign organised by Chesterfield Borough Council in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to promote and support high streets and town centres across the borough of Chesterfield.

The quick surveys will ask you questions about your business performance and any changes you have noticed in the last three months (January 2023-April 2023) if you are a business owner.

The consumer survey will ask you to update us on what events or venues you have attended and services you have used recently in our communities.

Please spend a few minutes to complete the relevant questionnaire. The results will allow us to monitor the performance of the town, the success of marketing campaigns and business support and will help to shape future activity to support high street businesses across the borough.

The survey will close on 20 June 2023.

At the end of the consumer questionnaire, there is an opportunity to win either a free 3-month gym membership or a free 3-month place on a children’s activity class at Chesterfield Borough Council’s leisure centres.

Businesses who complete the survey, will have the chance to enter a prize draw to win advertising for your business in the Destination Chesterfield business or leisure e-shot (worth £100). To qualify, you will need to fill out this and the next 3 quarterly Love Chesterfield Surveys for your chance of having a banner advertisement. A winner will be drawn in Spring 2024.

Complete the surveys here:

Business survey: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/r96myd

Consumer survey: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/m94tet

Chesterfield town centre views outdoors

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Local producers encouraged to exhibit at Chatsworth Country Fair

The popular Chatsworth Country Fair is set to return this summer, and producers, artisans and craftspeople based in Chesterfield and Derbyshire are being encouraged to showcase their products at the event.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, in partnership with Derbyshire County Council, is inviting local producers to apply for a place in the ‘Derbyshire Makers’ Marketplace’ at one of England’s most spectacular annual outdoor celebrations.

Held at Chatsworth from 1st to 3rd September 2023, Chatsworth Country Fair showcases the best in traditional, British country pursuits, with thrilling showground entertainment, quality trade stands and fun for all the family.

Derbyshire producers can register an interest in exhibiting in the Derbyshire Makers’ Marketplace at the event, which will celebrate the fantastic variety of quality products made in the county, ranging from arts, crafts and homeware to fine food and drink.

The opportunity is open to small and medium-sized businesses based in Derbyshire and is part financially supported by Derbyshire County Council.

Derbyshire-based businesses can apply for a place in the Derbyshire Makers’ Marketplace using the following link: https://VPDDCCF23.eventbrite.co.uk

Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 14th May 2023. Stalls provided to successful applicants will be subject to a charge of £150 plus VAT per business.

Leader of Derbyshire County Council Councillor Barry Lewis said: “Derbyshire has a wealth of quality local produce, artisan makers and skilled craftspeople and it’s great to be able to shine the spotlight on all they have to offer at Chatsworth Country Fair this year.

“The fair attracts thousands of visitors from near and far and is a great platform for local businesses to expand their customers base as well as flying the flag for Derbyshire makers.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “We’re delighted to offer Derbyshire producers the opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to thousands of potential customers from across the UK at Chatsworth Country Fair this summer.

“The marketplace is a celebration of local talent, showcasing the wealth of quality products made in Derbyshire, and offers a great opportunity for independent makers to exhibit at a large national event thanks to support from Derbyshire County Council. Good luck to everyone who applies!”

Home fragrance producer 022 Chatsworth Country Fair

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Growth, rebrands and exciting milestones for Chesterfield Champions

A number of Chesterfield Champions have announced recent successes, with firms revealing new recruits, rebrands and anniversaries.

Find out more in our roundup from across the town below.

Redbrik celebrates a flurry of female promotions

Redbrik promotions

Redbrik Estate Agents has announced numerous internal female promotions.

The firm recently celebrated promotions among both long-standing employees and recent recruits:

  • ​​Gemma Hynes has been promoted to Area Manager from her previous Property Consultant role.
  • Sarah Bicknall has been promoted to Area Manager from Lettings Property Consultant.
  • Thea Cox has been made Marketing Manager, promoted from Marketing Executive.
  • Grace Bradbury has been promoted to Sales Manager from her previous role as an Applicant Manager.

Claire Madej, Redbrik’s Talent and HR Manager, commented: “Redbrik is only as good as its people and I’m so pleased to see these fantastic women progress through the agency and take us – as a company and as part of the wider industry – forward. Last month the industry celebrated both International Women’s Day and the first-ever Women In Estate Agency conference, so we’re pleased to mark yet another milestone for women in property with these incredibly well-deserved promotions.”

Exciting rebrand for Roy Peters Estates

ROY PETERS

Roy Peters Estates, which has been trading successfully in Chesterfield for nearly 50 years has rebranded with a fresh new look.

The company has redeveloped its office accommodation to make it a brighter more welcoming environment, along with creating a dedicated private meeting room for anyone with concerns to share these in confidence.

Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates said: “We felt it appropriate to freshen our image and indicate we are ready for the challenges to come, whilst appreciating where the business started and our founders Roy Cutt and Peter Bown.

“We have come a long way and have plans to grow the business, specifically our residential management, building our commercial portfolio and offering professional commercial services, as we feel there is a gap in the market for a local specialist in the town.

“Our new branding will stand out and compliment our physical and on-line presence. We have some new faces here at Roy Peters, including Commercial Specialist Andrew, Accounts Lead Julie and our first Apprentice George. All three have settled in well and are already complimenting our existing team.

“Chesterfield has a huge amount to offer its residents and businesses, as do Roy Peters Estates. We, as a Chesterfield business do our best to deal with other local businesses and mutually benefit the town. ”

Edwards Employment Solutions celebrates 5th anniversary

Chesterfield recruitment agency, Edwards Employment Solutions is celebrating five years of success in the town.

The business recently announced growth, with a move to new office space the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre – find out more on the post below on some of the company’s main achievements over the last five years:

Woodall Homes announces dynamic rebrand

Woodall Homes, with current developments across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire, has launched a refreshed brand, marking its continued commitment to providing premium homes for first-time buyers, families and downsizers in the modern market.

Managing Director, Dave Wood commented: “The new Woodall Homes brand reflects our commitment to creating attractive premium-quality homes that enhance homeowners’ lifestyles. Our more dynamic and stylish new look marks our next era, as we continue to deliver timelessly attractive, sleek properties and interiors.”

Based in Barlborough, Woodall Homes have five developments currently under construction across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, with exciting plans for the coming years. Having secured funding from The British Growth Fund in 2021, the housebuilder has invested in its people, processes and planning as they take on further sites for growth.

Redbrik, Roy Peters Estates, Edwards Employment Solutions and Woodall Homes support 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, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

Chair’s blog: “Chesterfield is still moving forward with confidence and optimism”

In the face of national and global economic challenges, Chesterfield is once again forging its own path.

Like so many times before, our town is rolling up its sleeves and making change happen for the better. We’ve seen many developments come to fruition over the last couple of years and as a result sites which were previously derelict are now full of life.

New offices at Chesterfield Waterside and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre are already attracting investment and creating jobs for people in our town. There are already 90 people working within the Waterside Offices, and the Enterprise centre is now more than 60% occupied.

News of the extension to the Markham Vale North Industrial development, located at Junction 29a just off the M1 is another boost for our area. To date, Markham Vale has created more than 2,700 jobs, with potentially 800 more on the way thanks to the additional development plots.

Whilst we are all aware that Chesterfield is on the up, we must keep shouting about this as a collective. With a view to maintaining this progress I am excited to see Destination Chesterfield taking the town’s message to the UK’s biggest trade and investment show this May, UKREiiF.

Working alongside Chesterfield Borough Council and businesses in the town’s Property and Construction Group, we will be speaking to colleagues from across the country, helping to explain the wide range of benefits Chesterfield has to offer to inward investors and occupiers.

We’ll make investors aware of our illustrious history of innovation, and our fantastic connectivity and transport links. The fact that you can be in several major cities within just a couple of hours is a huge selling point; one which many other places are quite rightly jealous of!

It’s not just messaging around our town’s range of development sites and commercial workspaces which will be on display.

We will also shout about the fantastic quality of life here in Chesterfield, including our emerging food, drink and leisure offering. There has also been significant new housing delivery in the town over the past few years, which will also appeal to potential occupiers.

The fact that we’re so close to the world-famous Peak District National Park has already attracted major investment – including the £300 million PEAK development, which continues to progress.

Attracting further investment to Chesterfield remains a priority because it benefits everyone connected to the town.

It means more money in the pockets of our residents thanks to the creation of quality jobs, and naturally this leads to more money spent in our independent businesses, helping our economy to grow further.

Whilst we are all understandably concerned by recent reports about the state of the UK’s economy, I am pleased to say that Chesterfield is still moving forward with confidence and optimism – and shows no signs of stopping.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,