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National painting contractor, Bagnalls, has triumphed at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025, winning The Aptem Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award. Having previously been named as the regional winner of this accolade for the Yorkshire and Humber area, Bagnalls has come out on top again, this time as the overall national winner. The awards themselves, organised by the Department of Education, receive over 1,100 entries every single year. These submissions come from both companies and individuals across a range of sectors, including construction, IT, science, healthcare and many more. This placed Bagnalls in direct competition with various household names, including supermarket giant, Tesco and construction heavyweight, Kier Group, both of which were Highly Commended within the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award category. Designed to champion and reward the achievements of exceptionally talented and dedicated apprentices and T Level students, the awards also recognise the support and efforts of apprenticeship and T Level employers. Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director at Bagnalls, commented: “We are honoured to have been named National Winner of The Aptem Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award, especially as the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards celebrates its 22nd anniversary!" “EDI is incredibly important to us as a company, gifting us with a varied team that has the skills and experience to tackle whatever comes our way! Plus, with a significant number of our management team beginning their careers with us as apprentices, our apprenticeship scheme remains one of our most important and rewarding assets.” Bagnalls’ Group People Director, Ellie Jobes, said of the win: “This award is a wonderful recognition that all of our Bagnalls branches are working together to promote apprenticeships across a diverse audience." “We have seen a particular impact in increasing number of female painters, as well as supporting those joining the industry from low-income backgrounds. I want to say a huge thank you to all of our colleagues who work tirelessly every day to make sure that our apprentices have a positive experience working for Bagnalls.” Find out more about Bagnalls’ apprenticeship scheme and why the company is so passionate about supporting the next generation of young talent entering the painting and decorating industry.

After more than two years of commissioning, Robinsons Brewery have completed their £8.4 million investment in their new brewery. The announcement comes after the family brewers shared that test brewing had begun at their new brewhouse earlier in the year. Reflection on the transition, Oliver Robinson said, “It was a big decision to move our brewhouse from Stockport town centre after more than 185 years and six generations of brewing history. However, we had to look to our future and ensure our business is sustainable for our future generations. Our business has evolved over the years, and this has meant we have adapted our brewing operations to ensure a viable future for our brewing”. Brewing remains vital to Robinsons business plans, with cask beer production and sales bucking the industry trends. Across Robinsons pubs sales of cask beer are five times the on-trade average making up 28% off all beer sales. Having consolidated their brewing and packaging onto one site, Robinsons have already made great energy savings in gas, electric and water usage. The new brewhouse, which has been fully commissioned since March, has already seen the brewery’s energy consumption drop by 12%. Oliver went on to say, “The efforts of the teams involved in this project has been incredible. From our property team, and the external contractors; to the dedication and passion of our Project Brewing team, who have been heavily involved right from the start. It has been a huge investment and of course not without its logistical challenges, but to be in the position we’re in now, it really is testament to the knowledge and commitment of our team." "The way the wider brewing and production teams have come together this year, to learn and operate the new brewhouse also deserves a mention. It’s a big change to have undergone for our brew teams, some of whom have been with us for over 40 years – but they’ve embraced it. We’ve got a fantastic amount of brewing experience within the business and we’re incredibly proud of that. The experience of our team has ensured the beer quality remains excellent, and the change has gone unnoticed by our customers, to that we owe great thanks.”

Global L&D powerhouse Insights Learning and Development is delighted to reveal the appointment of Tricia Nelson as its new Global Marketing, Brand and Sales Director. Tricia’s appointment completes Insights executive leadership structure and an appointment of this calibre reflects the scale of their global growth ambition. In her new role at Insights, Tricia will be at the forefront of Insights' global growth agenda in and beyond the 109 countries in which they currently operate. Her remit includes leading the people development company’s marketing, brand and sales channels, expanding its global market impact and strengthening the company’s commercial performance. With more than 20 years’ senior leadership experience across consulting and industry, Tricia joins Insights with deep commercial and transformation expertise. She brings extensive senior leadership experience operating across Logistics, Financial Services, Energy, Transport and Media sectors.  She joins Insights following a distinguished career at EY, where she most recently served as UK & Ireland Managing Partner for People Advisory Services, People Consulting Leader and Global Client Service Partner. During her tenure she also served as the Advisory Talent Leader and Partner Sponsor for Corporate & Social Responsibility. Tricia brings with her a wealth of passion for the role that purpose led organisations can play in making a positive impact on the world. She is known for her entrepreneurial thinking, growth mindset and ability to building high-performing teams, which is at the core of Insights’ purpose. Tricia Nelson commented: “In today’s increasingly complex business environment, organisations need leaders and teams who can adapt fast, collaborate well and drive measurable performance. That’s why Insights has never been more relevant and why I’m excited to help amplify the impact we can make for customers around the world." "I completed my first Insights Discovery profile 17 years ago while working in financial services, it had a significant impact on me and I’ve been inspired ever since by the unique ways which Insights has been used to transform organisations and their people." "Insights’ vision closely aligns with my own ‘people-first’ transformation philosophy of building purpose-driven, inclusive cultures where everyone feels empowered to thrive." "Self-awareness is becoming a core commercial capability globally and joining an organisation where the passion and purpose behind the work is so tangible is incredibly meaningful to me." "I’m excited to connect with colleagues and clients across the world and, together, deliver sustainable, ambitious growth and expand Insights global impact.” Fiona Logan, CEO of Insights, added: “We are delighted to welcome Tricia to complete our executive team She is an exceptional leader with a proven record of driving growth, transformation and cultural change." “Tricia’s experience, energy and values align perfectly with our ambition to significantly expand the impact of our purpose in the world. We are thrilled to have her on board at such an important stage in our journey.”

Co. Armagh-based Avondale Foods has grown from a family farm in Craigavon to one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable food producers. At the heart of that journey sits a partnership with M&S that has now spanned nearly six decades – a relationship that continues to evolve just a few miles from the renewed M&S Craigavon store. Founded in 1965 by brothers Harry and Derek Geddis, Avondale began by growing vegetables for local retailers. The company started supplying lettuce to M&S in 1968 and has since expanded its range to include products found on M&S Foodhall shelves across the UK and Ireland. By the 1980s, Avondale had become the first company in Northern Ireland to manufacture coleslaw, establishing itself as one of the leading suppliers in the UK and Ireland – and marking a major milestone in its growing partnership with M&S. Today, remains the sole supplier of M&S coleslaw and potato salad across the UK and Ireland. Alongside these classics, the company also produces a diverse range of products, including stuffed mushrooms, croutons, stir-fry sauces, noodles and, more recently, overnight oats – all made in its custom-built facility in Lurgan. Talking about the relationship with M&S, Greer Geddis, son of the late founder Derek Geddis and now one of the company’s directors, says the key to their success lies in a shared commitment to quality. "What M&S expect of us, we expect of our own suppliers," Greer explains. "We bring everyone together a few times a year and refresh the focus on quality. When we’re discussing new products, quality always comes first. I believe that’s at the core of our longstanding relationship." The partnership thrives on innovation as much as tradition. “We love it when M&S set us a challenge,” he adds. “Many of the products you see on shelves began exactly that way.” As food trends evolved, Avondale saw growing demand for healthy, convenient breakfasts. “Once we entered the oats side of things, we saw huge potential. Flavours like apple crumble, salted caramel – and now something festive. When M&S asked for a new, innovative Christmas product, our Gingerbread Overnight Oats were born. It’s a seasonal product we’re really proud to see on M&S shelves this year." And the Gingerbread Overnight Oats are just the beginning. “Breakfast isn’t slowing down,” says Greer. “People want great-tasting, convenient options. This new addition for M&S is just the start.” Innovation, he adds, is non-negotiable. “We have to keep evolving. M&S are innovators too – they want products that catch the eye, taste amazing, and meet the highest standards. That’s what keeps our partnership moving forward. We’re approaching 60 years as an M&S supplier, and we’re proud of how our relationship continues to grow.” Reflecting on the partnership, Laura Harper, M&S Country Director for Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “Avondale Foods perfectly represents the values that define our relationships with local suppliers – quality, innovation, and trust. Their commitment to excellence and their ability to continually evolve with our customers’ needs have made them an invaluable partner for almost 60 years. As we celebrate the renewal of our Craigavon store, it’s wonderful to shine a light on a local business that has played such an important role in bringing the very best of Northern Ireland to our shelves.” From family-farm vegetables to festive oats, the Avondale and M&S partnership continues to thrive – driven by curiosity, quality, and a shared passion for great food. As M&S Craigavon prepares for an exciting new chapter with the transformation of its store, Avondale’s story stands as a proud example of local suppliers at the heart of M&S innovation and success.

An award-winning Derby restaurant is celebrating the launch of its new menu with what could be the biggest ever restaurant giveaway in the Midlands, worth £1200. Nicco Restaurant & Bar, based in Pride Park, is sharing its love of great food with an incredible Instagram giveaway. One lucky follower will win £100 worth of food every month throughout 2026: that’s a whole year of flavour-packed dining on Nicco’s. The Derby favourite is already known for its globe-trotting menu after co-owners Bhav and Sanj Kumar clocked up more than 34,000 miles in culinary inspiration for their core menu which blends authentic heritage recipes with international influences. Now, the team has gone one step further and has unveiled a new collection of dishes, including one heartfelt addition straight from the head chef’s own childhood kitchen. While food trends may come and go, there’s something timeless about dishes that rekindle a sense of home, and that’s exactly what head chef Surjeet Kumar, 43, has created with his latest addition to the menu. Introducing Methi Chicken, marinated tender chicken pieces cooked with fresh earthy fenugreek leaves, a dish that originates from Northern India and Surjeet’s home city of Delhi. Having been inspired to become a chef by his mother after spending time with her in the kitchen from the age of 13, Surjeet went on to hone his culinary skills in various hospitality roles before moving to the UK in 2010. Surjeet said: “This is a traditional and homely dish, one that my mother and I would cook at least once a week.” Using a recipe passed down from his mum to retain its authenticity, the dish was given the ultimate seal of approval when she visited the UK last month. He said: “I surprised her, simply telling her I wanted to share the latest addition to the menu. She was very emotional, happy and proud when she tasted it, saying it was exactly how we used to make it at home in Delhi. For me, this is a taste of home, that warmth and love from a home-cooked meal that I’d like to share with our customers.” "And it seems that although only just introduced on the menu, customers are already sharing the love for this dish. Restaurant manager Kam Odedra said the feedback has been “amazing”, with one diner calling it “one of the best dishes on the menu.” Other new additions include Crunchy Kurkure, a corn snack tossed with onions, tomatoes and coriander, finished with lemon juice; Crispy Chicken Bao, featuring fried chicken tenders coated in a rich makhani sauce and served in steamed bao buns; and Jackfruit Curry, a deep-fried jackfruit in a creamy masala sauce with burnt onions, chillies, garlic and lemon. Taster Thalis are also now available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions, alongside the Club Maharaja Sandwich, which brings together toasted sourdough, grilled chicken, turkey bacon and a fried egg. If this has whet your appetite, here’s how you can enjoy it free every month for a year in Nicco’s incredible Instagram giveaway. Just head over to Nicco’s Instagram page, follow the steps on their giveaway post, and you could be enjoying their delicious new dishes all year long. Co-owner Bhav Kumar said: “This menu really celebrates the diversity of our team and the experiences that have shaped them. Our chefs come from different parts of the world, and that’s reflected in the dishes. From heartfelt heritage recipes like Surjeet’s Methi Chicken to fusion plates inspired by our travels, every item on the menu tells a story.” Since opening in 2021, Nicco has become one of Derby’s most popular dining destinations, known for its contemporary Indian fusion food, creative cocktails and stylish interiors. The restaurant’s name was inspired by the couple’s son, while their daughter’s name features in one of the cocktails on the menu. Bhav added: “We’ve always loved experimenting with flavours from around the world, but everything we do is rooted in our Indian heritage. This new menu is about sharing those stories and experiences through food.” The winner of the giveaway will be announced on Christmas Day – now that’s one present that you won’t want to return!

The Keyhole Heart Clinic expands to The Park Hospital — led by University of Nottingham graduate and national Entrepreneur of the Year, Dr Inder Birdi. Patients across the Midlands can now access world-class keyhole heart surgery closer to home, after The Keyhole Heart Clinic officially launched its regional base at The Park Hospital, Nottingham. The milestone was marked by the successful completion of a minimally invasive aortic valve replacement, carried out by Dr Inder Birdi and the hospital’s cardiac team, the first of many advanced procedures planned for the region. Learning that one needs open-heart surgery can be a daunting prospect, not least because it traditionally involves splitting the breastbone and a lengthy recovery period. Dr Inder Birdi and his team at The Keyhole Heart Clinic have spent more than 20 years developing and performing keyhole techniques that avoid this entirely. Instead of opening the chest, surgeons work through small incisions between the ribs, meaning less pain, a lower risk of infection, and recovery measured in days rather than months. For Dr Birdi, who trained at the University of Nottingham, the launch represents a proud homecoming. “This moment means a great deal to me personally,” said Dr Birdi. “I began my medical journey here in Nottingham, so to return and introduce these pioneering keyhole techniques with such a skilled local team feels incredibly special.” Dr Birdi, who was recently named UK Entrepreneur of the Year at Entrepreneurs Circle’s National Entrepreneurs Awards, founded The Keyhole Heart Clinic in London to make advanced, minimally invasive heart surgery more accessible to patients across the UK. “Scaling excellence means stepping back and letting great teams step forward,” Dr Birdi added. “True growth — in medicine or any field — comes from trust, systems, and shared values that allow excellence to happen everywhere, not just in one place. That begins here in Nottingham but this is just the start.” Over the next 12 months, the partnership at The Park Hospital will expand to offer the full range of keyhole heart procedures, ensuring patients across the Midlands can benefit from the latest innovations in cardiac care without needing to travel to London.

Confidence, ambition and career skills are back on the table for a group of young people graduating this week from Thrive Forward Intensive. A bold, five-week programme funded by Market Harborough Building Society (MHBS), the project helps 16–24 year-olds break free from a rising tide of youth unemployment and growing mental health challenges, and take control of their future. The programme, funded by MHBS through its £250,000 Thrive Forward Fund, was created to support young people in South Leicestershire and North Northants, aged 16–24 who are currently Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). Developed in partnership with local Job Centres, the five-week course delivers intensive face-to-face training focused on employability skills, financial literacy, entrepreneurship and mental health at a time when an estimated 850,000 young people in the UK aged 16-24 are classified as NEET. “This has changed my life,” said one Thrive graduate. “Before Thrive, I didn’t know where to start. With the help of Thrive, I’ve not only grown in confidence, but secured a brand new warehouse job in a factory, which I started today!” This Wednesday 3rd December, the latest cohort (only the second since it launched) will mark the end of the programme with a graduation ceremony—a powerful celebration of progress, with participants reflecting on the journey they’ve taken and the skills they’ve gained. Front and centre will be Thrive Forward’s Community Ambassador, Kheron Gilpin—a national boxing champion who now works with young people on confidence, focus and resilience. Gilpin will present certificates, speak to graduates, and share his own journey from adversity to achievement. “These young people have had to overcome so much,” says Gilpin. “They’ve faced low expectations, setbacks, anxiety, and pressure. Now they’re standing taller, knowing they have the right to succeed. Thrive Forward is here to support them—and I’m proud to be part of it.” The Thrive Forward Intensive course is delivered by expert charity partners: Mind, Young Enterprise, Spiral Skills and Wize Up Financial Education—ensuring each week offers hands-on learning in the key areas young people need most. With more cohorts planned across the region in the coming months, Thrive Forward Intensive is proving that with the right backing, young people can move from stuck to self-starting in just five weeks. For MHBS, it’s not just a programme—it’s a promise to invest in potential and help the next generation take its first confident steps into the future.

Marketing excellence has been recognised with awards for a local PR - and the marketing firm she collaborates with. Chalmers News PR and Bia’s Marketing, Production & PR have both been won their respective categories – despite the awards being first created for The Cotswolds area. The Cotswolds Awards recognise the best businesses in a host of categories across industry sectors, from hospitality and food and drink producers through to retail and professional services. Amanda Chalmers is a trained journalist with over three decades of experience who now boasts a portfolio of successful PR campaigns through her Warwick-based agency. Her news desk experience and bulging contacts book combine with her boundless enthusiasm, integrity and tenacity to bring the best results for her clients every time. Working with PRs in her capacity as a former newspaper editor in Stratford-upon-Avon, Amanda understands exactly what it takes to make a story stand out to both the journalist and potential audience. Brazilian-born Bianca Rodrigues-Perry – also known as the face of YouTube’s Bia’s Kitchen Show – launched Bia’s Marketing & PR, in Leamington, earlier this year after reprising the successful career in her native Rio de Janeiro before moving to the UK with her new husband 16 years ago. She has over 20 years of experience in marketing and production, working with a portfolio of international brands including McDonalds, Gillette and M&Ms. Bia’s Marketing Production & PR offers the full range of marketing and PR services including marketing strategies, branding, website design, mini and large productions, events planning, content creation and social media management. It also offers access to appearance and sponsorship opportunities on sister company Bia’s Kitchen Show, which now boasts more than 80k followers and 23k YouTube subscribers, with an average of 1 million views on Instagram alone. Both ladies are no strangers to awards, Amanda three times being spotlighted nationally for Media Excellence. The Cotswolds Awards were created by Mette Lacey, founder of Cotswolds Concierge. Established in 2011, the online magazine reaches more than 80k readers who all benefit from its definitive guides and directory spotlighting and connecting local businesses and suppliers. Earlier this year businesses in neighbouring counties of Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire were invited to engage more closely with the brand following the launch of the four new dedicated shires sites under the Cotswolds Concierge banner. Mette said: “This year, we are thrilled to congratulate Chalmers News PR and Bia's Marketing & PR on winning ‘Best PR Professional in the Cotswolds 2025’ and ‘Best Marketing Professional in the Cotswolds 2025’ respectively." “Their passion, professionalism and commitment to championing local stories, businesses and charities across Warwickshire, the Cotswolds and beyond perfectly reflects the heart of what these Awards are all about. We’re delighted to see their hard work recognised.” She added: “Warwickshire led the way this year with a strong and warmly received wave of nominations, and we were delighted to welcome even more entries from further afield following our expansion into the four shires that shape the wider Cotswolds — Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire.” “We created The Cotswolds Awards to shine a light on the extraordinary businesses, experiences and people who make this region so special — from timeless villages and talented food and drink artisans to professional services, boutique hotels and the many creative independents that give the area its unique character." “Although the Awards are run by us at Cotswolds Concierge, they are driven entirely by public nominations and votes. They’re completely free to enter, fully independent, and designed to give every business a fair and equal chance. It’s our way of celebrating the warmth, charm and community spirit that define the Cotswolds — and of letting the public choose the people and places they truly love." Amanda said: “I’m especially proud to be recognised in The Cotswolds, despite most of my client base being in the Warwickshire and West Midlands areas. The principles that drive effective PR apply everywhere and professional reputation knows no borders. Public vote always means the most as well. I’m really chuffed to have made my name in this beautiful part of the world and look forward to hopefully connecting with new businesses there.” Bianca said: “This recognition is especially meaningful because it was decided entirely by the public. I am deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to vote and support our work at BIA’S Marketing, Production & PR. “As someone who rebuilt her career after moving from Brazil to Warwickshire, this moment is incredibly special. It’s a reminder that with passion, resilience and integrity, your work will always find the right people. Thank you to my clients and community for believing in what we do.”

The UK’s flagship annual barometer of collaboration between universities and industry warns that progress is stalling, with signs of declining business investment, major corporate partnerships contracting, and growing financial strain across universities. The State of the Relationship 2025 report, published by the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB), shows that while the UK’s world-class research base continues to generate new ideas, companies are investing less in turning those ideas into economic impact. Collaboration income has fallen for the second year in a row, major corporate partnerships have not recovered to pre-pandemic levels, and international industry funding continues to decline. At the same time, the UK’s longstanding strength in research openness and collaborative excellence is increasingly offset by weaknesses in business-led R&D, advanced skills utilisation, and industrial translation, leaving the UK at risk of losing ground to global competitors. Key findings include: 81,499 interactions between universities and businesses were recorded in 2023/24, an increase of 6.4% from the year before; An 8.7% rise in the number of university interactions with small-and-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), reaching 56,755 engagements; A 1.3% increase in the number of large business and university interactions, bringing total engagements with large firms to 24,744; A 2.1% real-terms declined in total income from business collaboration (excluding CPD), returning overall business collaboration income to £1.34bn. Dr Joe Marshall, Chief Executive of NCUB, said: “The Budget last week underlined the need for the UK to drive economic growth. Our world class research base and scientific talent should be a national asset that gives us a clear advantage. Yet at the very moment we need to extract more value from this strength, we are starting to slip back. " "University and business collaboration is one of the most powerful drivers of growth, but total income from these partnerships has now declined for two years in a row. Engagement with large firms remains well below pre-2017 levels, and licensing income continues to fall. Business investment in R&D is stalling across the UK, international industry funding is dropping, and many universities are operating with less financial resilience. The result is a system that still excels at generating ideas, producing world class research, and creating high quality spinouts, but is becoming less able to secure the industry pull, co-investment and translational capacity needed for innovation to scale.” He continued: “Collaboration between universities and businesses remains one of the UK’s greatest assets. This year’s findings show a system that is resilient, adaptive and still delivering. The UK’s spinout ecosystem is stronger than ever, and the numbers of interactions between universities and businesses are rising. But beneath these positive signs lies a more fragile picture. Capacity on both sides is under strain with the total value reducing, and the foundations that make collaboration possible are facing increasing pressure.” Marshall added: “As the UK enters a new phase of industrial strategy, rebuilding capacity and restoring confidence must be national priorities. Collaboration is how missions turn into delivery, whether in manufacturing, clean energy, digital technologies, life sciences or the creative industries. Achieving this will require sustained investment, clearer incentives for business engagement, and a more coherent policy environment across government, funders and regions." "Early moves from UK Research and Innovation suggest a shift in the right direction, but the real test will be translating these intentions into action. If we succeed, the UK can convert its research excellence into a genuine economy-wide advantage. If we fail, we risk losing ground to international competitors who are strengthening connections between research, skills and industry far more rapidly.” About the report NCUB’s State of the Relationship 2025 is the UK’s most comprehensive evidence base on university–business collaboration. Drawing on 25 indicators across research, innovation and skills, it analyses long-term trends, regional performance, and the evolving economic and policy landscape. This year introduces NCUB’s first Global Benchmarking Framework, positioning UK performance alongside international peers. You can read the full report here .

The founders of Glasgow-based energy services firm, Union Technical, are flying the flag for Scotland after being named Scottish regional winners at this year’s EY Entrepreneur of the Year UK Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights exceptional leadership from Michael Sweeney and Owen Coyle, as well as acknowledging the company’s rapid growth in the energy efficiency sector. The EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, now in its 40th year, honours outstanding entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence in areas such as innovation, financial performance, social responsibility, and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. Michael Sweeney, Founding Director of Union Technical, said: “Being named a finalist - and now a Scottish regional winner - in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards is a tremendous personal and professional milestone for both Owen and me." “It reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and ambition that have driven us from the very beginning, and our passion for building a business that grows sustainably while delivering the highest quality energy services to our clients." “Beyond business growth, our focus has always been on creating a culture where our team can thrive, develop their skills, and find personal fulfilment in the work they do. These awards are a recognition of that commitment, and they inspire us to continue leading with purpose, innovation, and the drive to make a meaningful difference in the homes, communities, and people we serve across the UK.” In addition to this accolade, Union Technical has achieved significant business milestones over the past year including being named as the ‘Fastest Growing Construction Firm in Scotland 2025’ by the UK’s Fastest Growing 50 Index (FG50) reflecting its rapid expansion and entrepreneurial success. Following their regional win, Owen Coyle and Michael Sweeney have been invited to No. 10 Downing Street on 8 December, where they will join other leading UK entrepreneurs at a reception attended by the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Owen Coyle, Director of Union Technical, added: “This recognition by EY, alongside our continued growth and other industry awards, is a testament to the incredible people we have at Union Technical. Our focus has always been on delivering high quality, sustainable energy solutions, and to see that commitment acknowledged on a national stage is hugely rewarding." “We are motivated to continue expanding our services, supporting local communities, and helping shape the future of energy efficiency in the UK.” Union Technical has doubled its turnover from £21 million in 2023 to £39.8 million in 2024, driven by major contract wins and continued geographical expansion of the business into new areas. Owen continued: “Throughout the EY Entrepreneur of the Year process, the regional and national judging panels were surprised to hear that we had built the business to this level without any external financing or investment – this is something we’re incredibly proud of. And, by the end of 2025 we expect to closeout another year of impressive growth, continuing the trend of sustainable, considered growth as we have done in previous years.” The company continues to expand its workforce, with plans to recruit 30 additional staff in heating, joinery, and engineering roles, supporting the next phase of growth in renewable and energy-efficiency projects across the UK. The 11 finalists selected from across the country were picked from 84 businesses across five regions – who, together generate £3.6 bn in revenue – and were awarded the prestigious titles at the UK final held on 20 November 2025, at a celebration dinner in London.

Make UK is warning manufacturers that they risk facing substantial fines and even potential shutdowns through a failure to address key workplace health issues. The warning comes as the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is now focusing far more pro-actively on workplace health as part of routine inspections. This is in response to a new ten year strategy to reduce workplace ill-health which has escalated significantly in recent years. According to the latest HSE data published last month, 1.9 million workers were suffering work-related ill-health in 2024/25, an increase of 200,000 from the same point last year. Almost all this increase was down to stress, depression & anxiety which increased from 776,000 to 964,000 cases. The increase in workplace health related issues amounts to over 30 million working days lost, costing the UK approximately £14bn bn a year. Figures also show that in 2024 HSE completed 246 criminal prosecutions with a total fine value of £33 million, of which half was related to workplace health. The new HSE strategy focuses on six key areas: manual handling; display screen equipment, COSHH, noise, mental health & stress. As a result, all HSE inspections are now focusing as much on health as on safety with inspectors routinely asking businesses what hazards they are addressing, what controls companies have in place and what processes are in place to ensure these controls are working. According to Make UK, unlike safety where the risks are more obvious and immediate and therefore easier to address, understanding the impacts on health is typically less obvious, harder to assess and, most importantly, can show itself years’ later meaning that employers can be at risk of prosecution in the future. Make UK is committed to improving health outcomes in UK workplaces & continues to support it’s members by offering expert advice, exemplar templates and even state of the art software solutions aimed at tackling this issue. Help for employers can be accessed via the link below. healthy workplaces | Make UK Commenting, Chris Newson, Director of Environment, Health & Safety at Make UK, said: “This is a welcome move from HSE to place workplace health on the same footing as safety in terms of importance given the alarming increase in workplace health issues. Manufacturers need to be aware of this dramatic new focus on enforcement by HSE and ensure they are addressing health as part of their routine controls for safety in the workplace." "This will come up more and more when inspections take place and companies need to ensure they have sufficient processes in place to maintain workplace health and controls to ensure these processes are working. Failure to do this will leave them at risk of potential prosecution and, in extreme circumstances, shutdowns until the issue is resolved.”

Following a multi-million-pound investment in a state-of-the-art campus in Glasgow, Barclays unveils a landmark partnership with the Scottish FA that reaffirms its long-term commitment to Scotland through football, entertainment, and community initiatives. Barclays will become the headline sponsor of Hampden Park, Scotland’s iconic national stadium. Following in the footsteps of renowned international venues, such as The Barclays Center in New York, Hampden Park will now be known as Barclays Hampden. After sealing partnerships with two of the UK’s most celebrated venues, as the founding Partner of Co-op Live in Manchester and Principal Partner of The O2 in London earlier this year, Barclays continues to expand its sports and entertainment portfolio. Barclays Hampden demonstrates the bank’s ongoing commitment to Scotland. Barclays has already awarded more than 300 grants to Scottish grassroots football clubs through its Community Sport Fund over the last four years alone. Barclays Hampden will now play a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of Scottish talent. The stadium will also host some of the world’s biggest music acts, including Take That, Metallica, and Calvin Harris, during Summer 2026. To celebrate the partnership, Barclays will open a dedicated hospitality suite later next year, offering customers and clients an exclusive experience at the heart of the action. Barclays will also become a partner of the Men’s and Women’s Scottish Cup and serve as the official naming rights partner of the Barclays Next Gen Girls' Performance Programme, which provides clubs with tailored performance programmes to support the development of Scotland’s young talent. This initiative cements Barclays’ ongoing commitment to supporting equal access to football for girls. For more than 25 years, Barclays has been a driving force for progress in football, from being the Official Banking Partner to the Premier League to leading record-breaking investments in women’s football across the UK, including the Barclays Women’s Super League, the Barclays Women’s Championship, as well as the Northern Irish Women’s Football Association, Scottish Women’s Football’s (SWF) Championship and League One. Its work in crucial grassroots football initiatives has seen millions of pounds of investment and tangible change to hundreds of thousands of individuals needing better access to the beautiful game – from providing equal access for girls to football in schools through the Barclays Girls’ Football in Schools network, to providing grants and support to underrepresented groups in the community through the Barclays Community Sport Fund and more. Barclays has consistently delivered unforgettable experiences in sports, music and the arts. From 90,000 fans watching Mariah Carey at the Capital Summertime Ball with Barclaycard, to the perfect serve at Wimbledon, or a standing ovation at Sadlers’ Wells, Barclays connects people with the moments they love, creating shared experiences that matter. Barclays Hampden is the next chapter in that story. Tom Corbett, Managing Director of Sponsorship and Client Experience at Barclays, said: “We are thrilled to be ending the year with the addition of the Scottish home of football to our partnership portfolio. Hampden is a fantastic venue in a fantastic city, and this new partnership will enable us to further support the next generation of football fans and players.” Stephen Flaherty, Scotland Site Lead and CTO & Head of Group Technology Infrastructure Services at Barclays, said: “Our partnership with the Scottish Football Association is a reflection of Barclays continued investment in the UK and Scotland. With over 7,000 colleagues across our Scottish campuses, one of only two locations globally that has every business function represented, Scotland is central to our long-term strategy." "This partnership is yet another milestone as we continue to drive commercial growth, expand resources for Scottish businesses, and offer greater choice in the market. Partnering with the Scottish FA further cements our ambition, and in a year like this we could not be happier to enter this partnership and cheer on our teams to further glory.” Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive at Scottish FA said: “We’re excited to have Barclays on board as Naming Partner of Barclays Hampden. Their desire to support Scottish football – across the levels – has been clear. The impact of their investment will be felt within the walls of Barclays Hampden and far beyond – not least helping fuel the kind of programmes we run that harness the Power of Football and make an everyday impact in Scottish society.”