Fifth-generation British bedmaker, Harrison Spinks, is fundraising for Leeds-based charity, Zarach, transforming every mile of the London Marathon into a mattress for children living without a proper bed. David Labuschagne, Head of Marketing at Harrison Spinks, will run the London Marathon on Sunday 26th April, with each mile completed matched by the donation of a bespoke mattress, helping to give children experiencing bed poverty a safe and comfortable place to sleep. The company’s fundraising initiative builds on a longstanding partnership with the charity, through which more than 820 bespoke mattresses have already been donated to children experiencing bed poverty. As part of its London Marathon fundraising, the company will donate a further 26 mattresses, in addition to its ongoing commitment to provide 30 mattresses each month - each one supporting a child to enjoy a safe and comfortable night’s sleep. The local charity is on a mission to end child bed poverty, ensuring every child has a safe, comfortable place to sleep and the chance to thrive at school. Partnering with schools to identify children experiencing bed poverty, Zarach connects families with community support services, delivering bed bundles to children across West Yorkshire, the Tees Valley, Liverpool, and Stockport – making an immediate and lasting difference to their lives. Each bespoke mattress donated by Harrison Spinks is carefully handcrafted with natural fillings, where every bed carries a bespoke label stitched into the fabric carrying the heartwarming message: ‘Made with love in Leeds’. David Labuschagne, Head of Marketing at Harrison Spinks, said: “Running the London Marathon is a huge personal challenge, but it’s nothing compared to the challenges many children face every night without a safe place to sleep. Knowing the long-lasting difference a safe, comfortable bed can make to a child’s life, makes every mile worth it, and I am so proud to support the vital work Zarach is doing." “We’ve been proud to support Zarach for several years now, and having recently increased our monthly mattress donations by 50%, we’re delighted to continue this longstanding partnership. The marathon is no exception, and I’ll be motivated by knowing that every mile directly helps children experiencing bed poverty get the safe, comfortable sleep they need to thrive.” Amy Green, Head of Communications at Zarach, said: “We’re so incredibly grateful to Harrison Spinks and their partnership. We’re delighted that David has chosen to take on such a huge challenge to raise awareness and funds for Zarach; children’s lives will be changed because of his efforts.” Supporters can contribute to David’s London Marathon efforts, making a donation at: https://donorbox.org/harrison-spinks-london-marathon-2026   For more information on Harrison Spinks please visit here. For more information on Zarach, please visit here.

A Surrey manufacturer is to showcase a range of process filtration solutions for the pharmaceuticals sector at a major international conference and expo in Copenhagen. Team members from Amazon Filters will be at the ISPE Europe Annual Conference to highlight how their filters, sanitary housings and customised technical support can help drive innovation in critical pharma and biopharma applications. ISPE, the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, will welcome more than 1,200 delegates to the Danish capital for three days of technical sessions, presentations and networking. Attendees include industry leaders and fellow professionals involved in drug manufacturing, supply chain activity, research and regulatory oversight. They will gather at Copenhagen’s Bella Centre on 20 to 22 April 2026 to discuss the latest developments in life sciences and the technical development of products. Representing Camberley-based Amazon Filters on Stand 34 will be Proposals Engineer Alex Lowther and Sales Manager Alexandra Foulger. Alex said: “ISPE Copenhagen is an ideal opportunity for us to show pharma manufacturers how our process filters, housings and solutions support critical applications across the sector." “We will present a range of filtration technologies used throughout pharmaceutical manufacturing, especially our SupaClean system, that combine improved operator safety with optimised filtration processes." “Our containment systems allow safe filter change outs when processing fluid and gas streams associated with the production of HPAPIs (highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredients). We will display a SupaClean filter system in a custom housing that has a cutaway section to view inside.” Alexandra said: “Stand visitors will learn how our depth and pleated filters support high-efficiency prefiltration and come with validated 0.2 µm sterilising-grade media for critical final filtration stages." “We also flag our solutions for steam filtration. They include SupaMesh stainless steel cartridges to ensure steam used for sterilisation is free from particulates, protecting both equipment and process integrity.” A focus on advanced filter housing capabilities will feature sanitary housings designed for clean-in-place (CIP) and steam-in-place (SIP) operations. Alexandra added: “We will discuss the manufacture of our standard and custom ranges of housings from initial design concepts through to machining, pressing and welding.” Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Maryland, USA, ISPE is a global organisation with more than 2,600 members from 73 countries. Among the membership are process engineers and developers, chemists, pharmacists and production managers. For more information on Amazon Filters’ activities in the pharmaceuticals sector, visit here. For more details of ISPE Copenhagen, visit here.

A commercial property specialist at Vail Williams has been appointed to an influential new body championing and supporting the office market in Oxford. Guy Parkes, partner, has been named as a founder member of the British Council for Offices’ newly launched regional committee in the city. The BCO is a membership organisation and the collective voice of the office sector – an interactive forum to inspire the creation of better workplaces for people and business. Guy, who has over 30 years’ regional sector experience, joins Emily Slupek of Savills, who has been named committee chair, and Lucy Wiltshire of Kier Construction. The Oxford committee was established following strong interest from across the regional commercial market and will operate as a sub-committee of the wider BCO South West region. The move reflects BCO's ambition to strengthen its regional reach, with Oxford emerging as a key focus, alongside a broader commitment to supporting the science and research sector. Regional agency lead Guy, based in Oxford and Reading, said he was looking forward to helping to shape how the BCO operates across the Oxford region. “I am excited to have been asked to be part of this progressive organisation. We will be sure to showcase the exemplary commercial property work going on across Oxford. There is a real buzz about the city, and I am anticipating that we will be looking to host thought-provoking get-togethers and social events to engage fully with the vibrant real estate community.” BCO is also exploring the creation of a complementary BCO NextGen Oxford committee to support early-career professionals in the region. The organisation is devoted to research and discussion – and through its publications, events and networking opportunities it provides the platform to debate all aspects of the office sector. Founded in 1990 and with a membership of more than 4,000, BCO represents owners, developers, architects, surveyors, managers, occupiers – and many more. Guy is embedded in the culture of Oxford having been at university in the city. He works across the full spectrum of commercial property needs and has established himself as a leading voice in commercial real estate. Vail Williams has seen business expand after opening an office in Oxford two years ago. The office is headed by partner Richard Dawtrey, also the firm’s Head of Investment. The entry into the Oxford market saw the firm, which now has twelve offices across the UK, bridge the gap between its London, Reading and Birmingham offices, with its premises at New Barclay House in the city. Photo: Office Champion - Vail Williams Partner Guy Parkes has been named as a founder member of the British Council for Offices’ newly launched regional committee in Oxford

The first cohort of primary school teachers who have studied part-time through the Poole-headquartered Castleman Learning Network (CLN) is about to graduate. The network is part of the Southern Education Trust (SET) and has seen well over 60 new teachers pass through its programme. They graduate from the University of Worcester with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Some of the part-time students have already got jobs for the new term in September. Trainee teachers work in a variety of schools during the qualification period and are taught by highly experienced professionals. Now CLN is looking for others who might wish to change career and become primary school teachers. Lou Evans, director, said: “This is our first cohort who have been through the part-time course and they qualify in July. It takes five terms or about 18 months and enables them to continue working and to better juggle family life. Our trainees spend two days in school and one day training with us." “They are based in schools near their homes enabling them to join the course from across Dorset as well as parts of Wiltshire and Somerset. There is a shortage of primary school teachers in the country and we offer the only part time course in our area. It allows those in other jobs to make a career change and we welcome mature students as well as recent graduates." “Being part of Southern Education Trust means we have great relationships with lots of schools and our students are able to take on a variety of placements. In the group about to qualify we have those who have worked as teaching assistants, in hospitality, retail, child care and administration." “Those who study to be teachers a bit later in life often bring valuable skills and experiences to the classroom – and this benefits the schools. Our recruitment cycle is now open and we’d like to hear from anyone who would like to consider becoming a primary school teacher.” Trainee Abi Vakatawa said: “This course has been carefully designed to offer lots of opportunities to work alongside a wide range of inspirational experienced colleagues." “We are constantly encouraged to stretch beyond our comfort zone but we always feel supported”. For more information contact: info@castlemanlearning.co.uk Photo: (l-r) Lou Evans, director, and to-be teachers Abi Vakatawa, Tuesday Phillips-Kiddle, Georgina Baker, Smanatha Cordwell, Brianda Byrne

Leading solar shading specialist Caribbean has successfully hosted a Business Growth Day at its Suffolk headquarters, bringing together more than 60 delegates for a full day of insight, training and collaboration.   The event, designed to help staff from 40 installation businesses strengthen their offering and capitalise on growing demand for external shading, combined practical workshops, one-to-one support and access to Caribbean’s manufacturing processes.   A central feature was a programme of six group workshops focused on two key areas shaping the sector: the science of solar shading and the role of automation in increasing project value and improving sales outcomes.   In addition, more than a dozen attendees benefited from one-to-one digital marketing audits delivered by specialists from Purplex Marketing, offering tailored advice on lead generation, online visibility and conversion strategies.   Every delegate also took part in a factory tour, providing a detailed look at the craftsmanship and processes behind Caribbean’s product range. The tours highlighted the company’s commitment to quality and gave installers valuable insight to support their own sales conversations with customers. The event also delivered real commercial outcomes. Twelve companies invested in new or enhanced sample kits during the event, equipping them with improved tools to present and sell external shading solutions more effectively.   Attendees were introduced to Caribbean’s new brand identity, showcased throughout the day and supported by a curated goody box. Alongside the business focus, the event maintained a relaxed and sociable atmosphere, with 70 burgers and 25 pizzas enjoyed as delegates networked and exchanged ideas.   Caribbean’s MD Stuart Dantzic said: “We created this day to give our trade partners practical, usable insight they can take straight back into their businesses. The response has been incredibly positive. It’s clear that installers are looking for more than just a supplier – they want knowledge, support and a clear route to growth.” The Business Growth Day is the first in a series of events that Caribbean will be hosting. For more information about Caribbean’s products, visit here .

A husband-and-wife team has officially launched a new luxury glamping venture in South West Wales. Barney and Heather Barc have invested significantly into Pont Tyweli Glamping, a family-friendly destination that offers the perfect location to explore New Quay beach, Cardigan Castle and a myriad of stunning local walks across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. The duo spent the last four years getting the 11-acre site ready for its April opening, with three geodesic domes and hot tubs now in place and a play area that will grow to incorporate dens and tunnels. It has been a complete departure from the norm for the qualified electrician and highly experienced employment lawyer after they chose to move from London to Wales to spend more time with their two children, now aged eight and six. “When we were living in the city, we dropped the kids at 7.30am and then didn’t get to pick them up until 6pm from nursery and that was 5 days a week. We wanted to change that so thought what better way than to try to do something on our own,” explained Heather, who was able to continue her busy legal job remotely after the move. “Our search for a new place to live and work took us all over the UK, yet our introduction to Pont Tyweli was a bit of an accident. We were down in Wales to view three other sites, and it came online overnight, so we thought we’d try to fit in a viewing after breakfast - I’m glad we did as we immediately fell in love.” She continued: “There’s eleven acres in total and where we’ve put the three domes in is the top field, giving you stunning sunsets. You can also quite easily walk into Llandysul, whilst we have so many fantastic beaches, castles, places to eat and long walks that couples and families can enjoy in the local area." “Barney gave up his job and has been using his electrical and trade skills to help build the domes and get the site ready for our opening. It’s all very exciting, but also a bit daunting - especially once we released the website for bookings.” Pont Tyweli Glamping is aiming to attract couples and families from across the UK and overseas. Guests can choose from three distinctive domes - Ash, Oak and Fern - that have been sourced from UK manufacturer Trudomes and have all been individually designed to offer a unique living space. They all have king-sized beds and separate bunk beds and boast a full kitchenette, cosy dining area with log burner, ensuite bathroom and USB power points. Outside, visitors can wind down in a luxury hot tub or enjoy a glass of wine whilst roasting marshmallows on the fire pit. Heather continued: “We wanted an interior layout that gave you everything you needed to be warm and comfortable yet also allows you to completely switch off and enjoy the beautiful views and outside space. “It was also important for us to ensure that the sleeping areas were separate, so parents could have their own space, and the domes could also double up for couples. There’s lots of nice treats you can hire as well, including a pizza oven and, shortly, a projector for watching your favourite film.” Bookings to be one of the first guests at Pont Tyweli Glamping are now being taken direct at www.pont-tyweliglamping.co.uk or via AirBnB. The site is also featured on several well-known listing sites including ‘host unusual’ and ‘parent-friendly stays’. Barney concluded: “There have been plenty of challenges in turning the vision into reality, from two years of planning applications and everything taking a lot longer to complete than we first expected. “It has been a real rollercoaster, but we both believe we’ve created something that is very special and will hopefully become a place people return to time and time again for the relaxation, the views, the places to visit and the unique setting of the domes.” For further information, please visit here ,  or follow the venture across its social channels.

An intrepid group of Lancastrian hikers is to go uphill and down dale to raise funds for a local youth charity.   The team from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues is tackling a specially devised and highly challenging ‘Lancashire 5 Peaks’ route on Saturday 9 May 2026.   The gruelling 20-mile hike with over 2,800 metres of climbing will see the group scale the summits of the county’s renowned fells, including the 627 metre high Gragareth on the Yorkshire border, and Ward’s Stone, the highest hill in the Forest of Bowland.   They will also be climbing White Hill and Wolfhole Crag, as well as the imposing Pendle Hill near Clitheroe. The day’s hiking is split into three parts of 2.4 miles, then 6 miles, and finally a larger trek of 11.4 miles.   The funds raised by the English Lakes Hotels hiking team will specifically support a vital youth suicide prevention project run by BEE Adventures, a not-for-profit community interest company which helps disadvantaged children and vulnerable teens by giving them opportunities to go on outdoor guided adventures.   The group is hoping to raise a minimum of £1,500 for the project and hopefully even more. The hiking team consists of 13 employees from Lancaster House Hotel, Wild Boar Estate and Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.   HR manager at Lancaster House Hotel Faye McGuinness explains: “Each of the five Lancashire peaks we will climb represents a young life. The statistics show that five young people in the UK each day tragically lose their lives to suicide. Our aim is to shine a light on that difficult truth and make an impact to help create brighter futures for those at risk." “As far as we are aware, our Lancashire 5 peak challenge is truly unique and has never been attempted before. It is a demanding physical challenge, and training in the next few weeks will be essential for everyone taking part."   “We’re actively recruiting for more team members to join us for the challenge to raise as many funds as possible and to raise awareness of the cause.”   Co-founder of BEE Adventures Ryan Bond adds: "The funding will be used to enhance our young people's suicide prevention programme in Lancaster and Morecambe, which is aimed at 14-25 year-olds. It equips young people with the tools to cope with the stresses of life and helps them build resilience, specifically by using the outdoors to improve mental health.” For further information or to donate, visit here .   Photo: (left to right) Ethan Holliday, Michele Aldridge and Faye McGuinness from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues are tackling a gruelling 20-mile hike for charity.

Multi-award winning national commercial cleaning and FM company Cleanology has launched a new Learning and Development (L&D) department in a dedicated training hub at its London headquarters. The department has been set up for both the induction of new starters and the continuous professional development (CPD) of existing staff. Cleanology’s investment in its enhanced training capabilities is seen as playing an important role in its goal of doubling in size from its current £25 million turnover, under the leadership of recently appointed CEO Mark Little. Core training modules in the L&D department include: An in-house management programme, designed to enhance standards and upskill the team, whilst identifying and developing high-performing talent. Tailored training courses for each job role. Bespoke and site-specific training for clients. Health and Safety (H&S): Detailed modules on observing safety guidance provided in site-specific Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS). Waste Management: The correct handling and management of different waste streams. Code of Conduct: Professional behaviour standards as set out in the Cleanology Staff Handbook. Emotional Intelligence and Communication workshops, as well as language tuition for new starters who do not speak English as their first language. (Cleanology’s diverse staff are from 34 nationalities with 82 percent identifying as ethnically diverse). Cleanology – which employs around 1400 people in 24 UK cities - also runs a number of in-house schemes which help nurture talent, such as ‘Hospitality Hero’ which is a training initiative specifically designed for client-facing members of staff. It aims to ensure they deliver high-level customer service and professional engagement and consists of interactive learning modules of videos and quizzes. It also includes a Client Recognition Award system where clients can nominate team members for outstanding service. The company, based in the new skyscraper district of Vauxhall Nine Elms, South West London, also hosts an Annual Company Dinner and Awards Ceremony – often referred to as their ‘Cleaning Oscars’. It features as part of a family day for staff to celebrate top performers. There is also an Annual Academy Day, described as part of Cleanology’s ‘broader engagement strategy’, and regular ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions covering various subjects. The team of four running the L&D department is headed up by HR Director Jade Collazo and Learning and Development Manager Romana Ferreira. Jade Collazo said: “Through initiatives such as Cleanology Academy Day, Hospitality Hero and a 360 degrees skills matrix, we empower colleagues to learn, upskill and progress. Our leadership programmes and mentoring ensure fair access to opportunity for everyone." “Training starts on the first day – and sometimes even before the employee joins Cleanology – and this emphasises the importance of the onboarding experience”. The L&D department has also released some statistics which support its track record of seeing well-trained staff prosper and being promoted, specifically: 47 percent of the Head Office executive team have been promoted from within. 10 employees have progressed to senior head office roles after starting as cleaners. 78 percent of Operations Managers began as cleaners. Cleanology boasts a 94 percent staff retention rate compared to an average of 79 percent in the commercial cleaning sector. Training feedback from nearly 200 sessions scored an average 4.91 (out of 5) ‘Excellent’ rating. Romana Ferreira said: “We do not just hire talent; we nurture it and create long-term careers that reflect our inclusive values. We measure progress through transparent data and staff feedback to ensure that inclusion leads to lasting impact. These results highlight a workforce that feels valued, supported and proud to belong." “Learning and Development is instrumental to Cleanology’s culture of continuous improvement and I am proud to be leading the new training team”.  For for information visit here .

UK professionals are racing to upskill in artificial intelligence, data analysis and human-centric capabilities as businesses struggle to keep pace with technology’s rapid evolution, according to new analysis of LinkedIn’s Skills on the Rise 2026 report.   While 78% of UK organisations have now adopted AI tools in some form, just a third report seeing meaningful benefits with widespread skills shortages increasingly blamed for slowing progress.   William Stokes, CEO of hybrid workspace provider Co-Space , warned that the gap between adoption and understanding could leave many workers vulnerable as AI becomes embedded across industries. “Without regular in-person collaboration, gaps in confidence and comprehension around emerging technologies deepen,” said Stokes. “Those who fail to adopt and truly understand AI risk being excluded from new opportunities.” The analysis shows mounting demand for professionals who can combine technical and interpersonal expertise. Job postings referencing AI and machine learning, data analysis, cybersecurity, sustainability, and communication have all surged in the past year.   LinkedIn’s Skills on the Rise 2026 report groups these trends into five core skill areas reshaping the UK labour market: AI Machine Learning and Generative Technologies Data Strategy and Workflow Optimisation Operation and Risk Resilience Leadership, Culture and Communication Commercial Intelligence and Delivery. Together, these areas show how demand is evolving from narrow technical expertise to broader capabilities that blend AI, data, risk, people and commercial skills, and why employers are rethinking how they hire and develop talent.   This change reflects a broader shift from job titles to skillsets where adaptability, critical thinking and collaboration now rank alongside technical proficiency.   Stokes added: “We’re moving from an economy built on fixed roles to one built on evolving abilities. Maintaining relevance now means continuously learning, not relying on traditional qualifications.” Though automation brings challenges, including potential job displacement and data privacy risks, many businesses are already seeing tangible benefits from AI’s integration into everyday work. By removing repetitive tasks, professionals are reclaiming time for creativity, strategy and meaningful engagement, all trends linked to reduced burnout and improved wellbeing.   The government has recognised this urgency by launching initiatives to upskill 10 million workers with AI capabilities by the end of the decade.   “AI is enabling people to prioritise complex thinking rather than mechanical tasks,” said Stokes. “That’s not just good for business, it’s transformational for mental health and job satisfaction.”   As hybrid and remote models continue to dominate, Stokes believes flexible workspaces will play a central role in bridging the country’s digital skills gap.   “Employers must create spaces for collaboration and cross-learning,” he explained. “We’re seeing professionals from tech, consulting and creative sectors coming together to share real-world expertise. It’s that interaction, not isolation, that powers genuine skill growth.”   With AI driving constant change, employers are increasingly prioritising demonstrable capabilities over traditional qualifications. Emerging competencies in AI literacy, data fluency and cybersecurity are fast becoming the new currency of career advancement. “For businesses, success now depends on investing in their people’s development,” said Stokes. “For professionals, it’s about embracing lifelong learning and understanding how AI works, not just how to use it.” This acceleration towards skills-based hiring represents one of the most significant shifts in the UK labour market for a generation, redefining what it means to stay employable in the age of artificial intelligence.

A fast-growing car retailer is closing in on a £100 million turnover target after a surge in recruitment driven by new youth investment. NK Motors Group, which operates across Long Eaton, Chilwell and Derby Pride Park, has taken on 10 new staff and apprentices in the past six months as it ramps up growth and builds its future workforce. The new hires include a social media brand manager, a sales executive, an accountant, valet staff and a group sales administrator, alongside two apprentices from the Kia Apprenticeship Academy in Derby. The business now employs seven apprentices in total, reinforcing its commitment to creating opportunities for young people entering the motor trade. Simon Murdock, dealer principal at NK Motors, believes the approach is central to both service and future growth. He said: “We’ve had a phenomenal six months as we edge closer to our £100 million turnover goal. Hiring new staff before they are really needed means we ensure unrivalled levels of customer service. By hiring apprentices, you really do set a young person up for life, and it’s great for us as we can grow our own people.” Alfie Adamson, who joined as an apprentice aged 16, said the hands-on experience he has received has been key to his development. “I enjoy the variety and constantly meeting new people, learning about different vehicles, and developing new skills." “NK Motors give young people real opportunities to grow by providing training and support. You’re trusted with responsibility early on, which helps build confidence quickly.” Ruby Harwood, 24, who recently joined in a newly created brand ambassador role, highlighted the inclusive culture for younger team members. “The team here spot talent early and foster a really welcoming environment,” she said. “We’re seen and heard, and there’s real creative freedom to bring new ideas into the business, especially on social media.” Further recruitment is already planned, including two roles at the group’s new bespoke van centre in Chilwell, which opened just three months ago, as a direct result of strong early demand. Employing around 120 people, and with a current turnover of £75m, the NK Motors group has doubled its turnover over the past decade. Managing Director Sanj Kumar said the company’s success is driven by both the strength of Kia’s vehicle range and its continued investment in people. He said: “The business has continued to expand its apprenticeship programme and wider team as it builds towards its ambitious growth plans. We always say that our apprentices and young people are a vital part of this journey."

Leafy Weybridge in Surrey continues to punch well above its weight in the office space market but a growing mismatch between supply and demand could prove crucial, says a regional commercial property specialist. Charlie Nicholson, regional managing partner for property consultancy Vail Williams, says the town’s unique blend of high-quality, competitively priced office accommodation and exceptional connectivity continues to underpin office market demand. The Weybridge office market has performed well amid evolving occupier requirements and ongoing workplace recalibration, helped by the combination of its lifestyle offer, top schools and good transport links to London, Heathrow and Gatwick. Global occupiers such as Samsung and Sony have long-established operations in and around the town, cementing Weybridge’s role as a genuine hub-and-spoke location for international businesses. Charlie said: “However, we are seeing office outcomes in Weybridge become increasingly polarised. Buildings that have benefitted from investment continue to perform strongly; meanwhile older or less flexible stock has experienced slower rates of absorption. That’s why building specification and presentation matter more than ever.” “There is also a clear shortage of modern, fitted Cat A+ and ‘oven-ready’ accommodation, particularly at the smaller end of the market. Suites within the 1,500 to 10,000 sq ft range are experiencing sustained levels of demand, but availability remains limited.” Charlie, who has more than 20 years’ regional commercial property experience, added: “Where landlords have invested in high-quality fitted office space in Weybridge, results have been encouraging. The multi-let buildings at The Heights demonstrate that when space is delivered in the right format conventional offices can and do let well here." “This creates a clear opportunity for landlords and investors. Splitting larger floorplates and committing capital to Cat A+ refurbishments is making the difference between space sitting idle and space letting quickly.” In 2025, there were 12 significant office lettings in Weybridge, totalling approximately 33,217 sq ft. This represented a significant increase in total square footage leased compared with 2024, reflecting ongoing occupier right-sizing trends but also a renewed transactional momentum. Office demand remains centred on Weybridge’s established business park locations which benefit from strong access to the M25 and have a proven ability to attract major corporates. These locations have continued to anchor significant occupiers over the last 12 months, notably at The Heights Brooklands and Bourne Business Park. Headline rents at The Heights are now moving into the early £40s per sq ft, with prime refurbished space typically achieving £38 to £40 per sq ft. Meanwhile the average net effective rents across wider Weybridge in 2025 sat closer to £30 per sq ft. This reinforces the town’s value proposition when compared with many outer London locations. Charlie said: “Looking ahead, at one end of the market, demand is emerging for bespoke, pre-let solutions from larger corporates with specific operational requirements." “At the other end of the market, smaller and mid-sized occupiers continue to drive transactional activity, provided space is delivered in a format that supports immediate occupation and modern working practices." “Also, flexible workspace providers have also responded to this demand by delivering amenity-rich environments that appeal to experience-led occupiers, helping to provide an incubator offering to start-ups alongside more established corporate occupiers in the area." “From an office market investment perspective, Weybridge continues to offer long-term development and investment potential. The Local Plan identifies opportunities for intensification of office delivery across established commercial areas, including parts of The Heights campus." “Not only this, as some older office buildings transition to residential use, those that remain are capable of profitable turnaround through refurbishment, reconfiguration or redevelopment, and are expected to attract sustained occupier and investor interest." “For global occupiers, Weybridge provides a cost-effective gateway to UK and European markets, meanwhile, for landlords and investors, office demand will continue to flow, if capital is deployed intelligently and space is aligned with modern occupier expectations." “Of course, Weybridge is not immune to wider economic pressures as we look ahead, but the office market here is underpinned by strong fundamentals – international appeal, excellent connectivity, a compelling lifestyle offer and consistent demand for high-quality space. Few locations within the Surrey office market combine these advantages so close to London.” Vail Williams , based in Woking, has had a presence in Surrey since the late 1980s and over the years, we have played a pivotal role in some of the region’s major commercial and residential developments. The firm’s full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy. Photo: Hitting the Heights: Weybridge in Surrey continues to punch well above its weight in the office space market but a growing mismatch between supply and demand could prove crucial. Pictured is The Heights where rents are now moving into the early £40s per sq ft.

The Pantry marked a hugely significant milestone on Monday 6th April, celebrating 20 years since it first opened its doors as a small sandwich shop perched on Hayes High Street in Hillingdon, Middlesex. Now one of the UK’s largest independently owned contract caterers, The Pantry’s journey began in somewhat humbler surroundings, as a 21-year-old Luke Consiglio moved into the shop with big ambitions and a determination to build a business to be proud of. The Pantry quickly built a reputation for its delicious, freshly made sandwiches with queues stretched out the door and down the high street, attesting to the quality and care behind every order. Within just six months, the business had expanded beyond the shop, catering for local companies and events. What started as a humble high street venture was steadily evolving into something much bigger. In 2007, The Pantry was approached by its first school to provide lunches on a small scale – an opportunity that would shape the company’s future. By 2014, it had secured its first official school contract, and its reputation for delivering hot, nutritious meals began to grow. Now, 20 years on, The Pantry provides catering to hundreds of schools, producing meals across the length and breadth of the country, and employs over 700 people – still including Luke’s mum and other family members. In an industry dominated by large corporate structures, The Pantry remains fiercely independent, with Luke sitting proudly as the sole company owner and CEO. He continues to champion the spirit of a true family business at its core. ‘At the time, I had high hopes for what The Pantry could become, but to have grown to the size we are today, and to still be a business I am genuinely proud of, is far beyond anything I could ever have imagined,’ Luke said. ‘To everyone who has been part of the journey – thank you. You’ve helped shape what The Pantry is today.’ As The Pantry  celebrates this remarkable milestone, the future appears just as exciting as the beginning, with the business set for many more decades of growth, development, and achievement.