Business Manchester | Manchester's Leading Business Online Magazine

Housing associations in Leeds to benefit from new building materials hub

Construction

-

12/10/2023

Housing associations in Leeds to benefit from new building materials hub

Leeds housing providers now have access to the AVAIL Housing Hub, a cutting-edge initiative introduced by Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS).

This innovative hub is tailored to support housing providers in their mission to deliver safe and high-quality social housing to the local community.

It offers a comprehensive suite of services, including material procurement, advanced stock management technology, efficient waste disposal solutions, and expert training. These resources are strategically designed to help address the multifaceted challenges associated with contemporary social housing, such as evolving legal requirements, prioritising health and safety, managing cost fluctuations, and adhering to decarbonisation regulations.

Wealth of products

A wealth of products for construction, maintenance and repairs will be made available to customers via the hub’s large external yard and warehouse. JPS will apply its automated replenishment technology to ensure levels of stock – which are specifically selected to support social landlords with their key challenges – are always maintained.

A fleet of vehicles are available for delivery of products and materials to different sites and properties, either direct to operative or to AVAIL’s Smart Collection points located at convenient spots around the city.

Drop and go waste

In coming months, the hub will include an on-site ‘drop and go’ waste offer, allowing users to save valuable time in the usual waste separation process, as well as a training academy, available to any AVAIL Housing Hub customer and their tenants, offering training on new product launches and construction processes. Courses will also be available for 16–24-year-olds looking to enter the job market, delivered in conjunction with charity YouthBuild.

Social housing plays an important role in Leeds, with 54,000 council-owned dwellings in the city and a commitment in place to build 1,500 more by 2025 through the House Growth Programme. The hub is located in Seacroft, where 70 per cent of households are classed as living in deprivation – the fourth most deprived area in the city.

JPS officially opened the doors to the Leeds hub at the end of September, at an event attended by a wealth of building materials suppliers, contractors and local housing associations.

Raising standards

Scott Cooper, managing director of JPS, said: “From rising material costs and a shortage of labour, to environmental targets and a need to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of homes, housing associations are feeling more pressure than ever before to provide better housing for less while simultaneously raising the standards of their properties.

“The roll-out of our AVAIL Housing Hubs is designed to make our customers’ lives easier in the face of these challenges, which we know are especially prevalent in Leeds. We want to offer social housing providers a way of working that will save them money, while also providing the guidance they need to select the products required to deliver the homes of the future.

“The AVAIL Housing Hub model brings all of that under one roof, and will enable us to act as a supply partner to housing associations in Leeds, helping them deliver on their objectives for the people who need it most.”

The hub in Leeds is open now. For more information, visit https://www.jewsonpartnershipsolutions.com/avail.

Frankie Dettori abandons retirement plans

Sport

Francesca Turner

-

12/10/2023

0

Frankie Dettori abandons retirement plans

Three-time champion jockey Frankie Dettori has reversed his decision to retire at the end of this season, saying, “I’ve still got the fire inside me”.

The Italian-born jockey has ridden over 3,300 winners in a career in Britain spanning over 37 years. After announcing in December 2022 that this season would be his last, the 52-year-old has had a great season and opted to continue his career in the United States.

He told BBC Breakfast: “I’ve still got the fire inside me that I want to do it a little bit more.

“I don’t feel ready to let go yet. I’m going to spend some time in the USA and take it from there.”

This season, Dettori has won the 2,000 Guineas, the Oaks and the Ebor, all contributing to a rethink and reversal of his initial decision.

He still plans to say his farewells to British racing at the British Champions Day at Ascot in October.

Dettori has not confirmed how long he expects to continue out in the States.

“I could be there three months or three years, I don’t know,” he added.

“It was a long, hard decision for myself and my wife. It’s a big decision to move to another country.”

Gorvins supports sale of health-based technology company QuiqSolutions

News

Helen Greaney

-

12/10/2023

0

Gorvins supports sale of health-based technology company QuiqSolutions

Stockport-based law firm Gorvins has acted for the shareholders of QuiqSolutions Limited on the sale of the entire issued share capital to The Citation Group.

QuiqSolutions is a cloud-based compliance and quality management solutions provider to health and social care providers, NHS Trusts, local authorities, schools and multi-academy trusts around the UK.

Its digital products help organisations prepare for CQC inspections and other regular audits, and devise action plans to ensure organisations can keep on top of compliance and quality monitoring.

QuiqSolutions is the fifth acquisition this year by Wilmslow-based global compliance software and services provider, The Citation Group.

The two companies have been working together since 2015, and the move is part of Citation’s broader goal to simplify regulatory compliance tasks for SMEs in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

This latest acquisition follows the Group’s recent expansion into North America through the acquisition of Canadian HR software and service provider, HRdownloads.

Neal Moores, QuiqSolutions founder, said: “Citation shares the same focus and commitment to developing simple and effective quality and compliance tools and has an even broader suite of solutions our clients can benefit from. I’m confident the business will go from strength to strength over the coming months and years.”

Gorvins first acted for QuiqSolutions in 2018 and have maintained an on-going relationship since.

The QuiqSolutions shareholders were advised by Gorvins corporate commercial partner Christian Mancier who was assisted by Gemma Lingard (senior associate – Corporate/Commercial), Joe Kitchin (paralegal – Corporate/Commercial) and David Rogers (partner – Employment) and this transaction is just one of a number of corporate deals recently completed by the Gorvins corporate/commercial team. Accountancy advice was provided by Julian Beressi at Xeinadin Group.

The Citation Group was advised by a team at Addleshaw Goddard LLP led by corporate partner Andrew Green, assisted by Associate Solicitor Alexander Redford and Paralegal Callum Campbell.

In respect of Gorvins’ advice and input, Neal added: “Selling a business is not something you do every day and having a steady hand on the tiller to steer the deal through, as well as navigating around the occasional shoal, is essential.

Christian, Gemma and the team provided the guidance and confidence we needed to successfully negotiate sometimes choppy waters, and then go the extra mile. I would certainly recommend their services; their approach and ‘can do’ attitude was key to a successful completion.”

UEFA postpones Israel’s game with Kosovo

Sport

Jon Fisher

-

12/10/2023

0

UEFA postpones Israel’s game with Kosovo

Sunday’s Euro 2024 qualifier between Kosovo and Israel has been postponed, UEFA has announced.

The match, scheduled to be played in the Kosovan capital Pristina, will be re-arranged for a later date due to the ongoing conflict in Israel.

Over 2,300 people are reported to have been killed following Hamas’ attack on Israel on Saturday and the retaliatory bombing of Gaza.

The #EURO2024 qualifying match between Kosovo and Israel scheduled for 15 October has been postponed.

A new date for the fixture will be announced in due course.

— UEFA (@UEFA) October 12, 2023

Stanislav Kondrashov’s Latest Publication Explores the Fascinating Lives of Octopuses

Sam Allcock

-

12/10/2023

0

Stanislav Kondrashov’s Latest Publication Explores the Fascinating Lives of Octopuses

Stanislav Kondrashov’s most recent publication, titled “The Marvelous Lives of Octopuses By Stanislav Kondrashov,” delves into the captivating world of one of the ocean’s most enigmatic inhabitants: the octopus. Kondrashov provides a detailed exploration of the intriguing characteristics of these remarkable marine creatures, dispelling myths and sharing anecdotes of significant historical and cultural relevance, all centered around these curious eight-armed beings.

Kondrashov initiates the exploration with fundamental insights, some of which may be unfamiliar to most individuals. Beyond their distinctive eight arms, hence the name “octopus,” which translates to “eight feet,” octopuses possess three hearts. The author portrays them as true treasures of the oceanic realm. Just like precious gems, these fascinating creatures still hold many undiscovered secrets, particularly concerning their lesser-known facets.

In his latest work, Kondrashov delves into the physical and structural traits that have rendered octopuses globally renowned. Their remarkable ability to change color and appearance within mere seconds is highlighted, earning them the moniker “Houdini of the sea.” The publication also underscores their impressive intelligence, as observed in their adeptness at opening jars and navigating intricate mazes.

Stanislav continues by examining other intriguing shared characteristics among octopuses, such as their uncanny capacity to squeeze through incredibly narrow spaces and their innate navigational skills. One of the most intriguing features, according to Kondrashov, pertains to their arms, or tentacles, which serve multiple purposes—from capturing prey to exploring territories and discerning the flavors of their food.

Kondrashov also delves into their life expectancy, which is generally quite short, yet counterbalanced by their frequent engagement in various activities, including hunting, mating, and, for female octopuses, the meticulous care of the numerous eggs they produce.

To unearth further details and curiosities about one of the ocean’s most captivating creatures, readers are encouraged to delve into the full publication and watch the related video.

Is Your City Buzzing? tastecard’s Latest Study Highlights the Biggest Caffeine Enthusiasts

Sam Allcock

-

12/10/2023

0

Is Your City Buzzing? tastecard’s Latest Study Highlights the Biggest Caffeine Enthusiasts

Here at tastecard, our love for a good cup of Joe is boundless, but our curiosity got the best of us (pun intended!), prompting us to ponder: what do you love to sip on, and more importantly, save money on? We took a deep dive into the UK’s caffeine habits to uncover which cities are buzzing the most and which coffee choices are reigning supreme in getting everyone out of bed each morning.

And the Most Caffeinated City Is…

Based on our data analysis, London takes the crown with an astonishing 97,270 total monthly searches for coffee, closely followed by Edinburgh (20,290), Manchester (15,000), and Birmingham (11,810). On the flip side, it seems that Southwark is in need of a caffeine kick, as it ranks at the bottom with only 700 total monthly searches for coffee, and 5,600 in the entire year of 2023.

Top 5 Most Caffeinated Cities of 2023:

London – 778,160 total searches
Edinburgh – 162,320 total searches
Manchester – 120,000 total searches
Birmingham – 118,080 total searches
York – 112,000 total searches

The Nation’s Favorite Coffee?

When it comes to coffee types, the unassuming Americano takes center stage with a staggering 1,350,960 total average searches in 2023. It is followed by the beloved Flat White (216,800), the classic Cappuccino (177,600), and the exotic Chai Latte (177,600).

Top 3 Coffee Types of 2023:

Americano – 1,350,960 total searches
Flat White – 216,800 total searches
Cappuccino – 177,600 total searches

What’s Flying Off the Shelves?

Our data also provides insights into the nation’s favorite coffee purchases among tastecard’s sample audience. Leading the pack is the Latte Regular, with 22.3k units sold, followed by Cappuccino Regular (14.6k sold), Flat White (13.9k sold), and Americano Regular (13.1k sold).

Top 3 Coffee Purchases:

Latte Regular – 22.3k units sold
Cappuccino Regular – 14.6k units sold
Flat White – 13.9k units sold

Are You Ready To Join the Buzz?

We hope our caffeine investigation has been enlightening. Whether you’re an Americano aficionado in London or a Latte lover in Oxford, it’s evident that the UK boasts a rich tapestry of coffee enthusiasts.

But the most crucial fact of all is the 25% savings on barista-made drinks with tastecard. This means that non-tastecard members are missing out on potential savings worth £117!

Notes: Savings are based on using tastecard’s 25% discount on barista-made drinks, calculated on the average coffee price, assuming three purchases per week.

Join tastecard today to sip and save on your favorite drinks while taking part in the nation’s cherished coffee tradition!

*Savings based on the national average price for a cup of coffee at £3.25, with the average user buying coffee three times a week.

Unveiling YourTour™: Your Ultimate Live Genealogy Experience

Sam Allcock

-

12/10/2023

0

Unveiling YourTour™: Your Ultimate Live Genealogy Experience

For History Enthusiasts with Busy Lives

Ever wondered if you have royal lineage flowing through your veins, but the demands of your day job keep you too occupied? Perhaps you’re curious about your great-grandmother’s wartime experiences but never had the time to dive into dusty archives. While online platforms grant access to billions of historical records, the journey of genealogy research can be time-consuming and daunting, deterring many from embarking on this quest.

All of this has changed with the introduction of YourTour™, a revolutionary genealogical service tailored for those eager to uncover their family history and heritage but lacking the time or expertise to navigate the complex world of historical records. YourTour, presented by Historic Productions Ltd, offers one-hour online sessions with expert historians and genealogist Guides who meticulously explore archive materials and online databases in advance, uncovering the secrets of your family history and unveiling them during a unique live experience.

Tom Holland, an award-winning historian, author, and broadcaster, enthusiastically remarks, “What a service! Thank you so much for what was an absolutely eye-opening exploration of my forebears. I am hugely grateful to my Guide, to her research and expertise. Amazing to discover that the Hollands can be traced all the way back to 1664, and that a great-great-grandfather on my father’s side knew Tennyson and met with a Napoleon!”

The YourTour experience goes beyond mere lists of names and dates; it’s akin to embarking on a museum tour of your own family history. Each guided session is engaging and entertaining, connecting individuals with their unique stories, culture, and traditions that shape their identities. It’s the perfect gift for anyone with a penchant for delving into their past, and because these sessions are conducted live on Zoom, the entire family can participate. Following the live session, participants receive a detailed color report filled with information, illustrations, and historical records, which they can treasure, share with family, or use as a starting point for further exploration.

James Hooper, founder of YourTour and Director of Historic Productions Ltd, explains, “Most of us love to hear about our ancestors and the lives they lived, and knowing where we come from can also be good for us. Uncovering these stories can be time-consuming and complex, often requiring extensive research, access to historical records and some genealogical expertise. YourTour solves that problem by providing a bespoke service: doing the work for you and giving you a comprehensive, hassle-free, and totally personalised one-to-one genealogy experience as a conversation. It is the perfect gift for anyone who loves exploring history in discussion with passionate and knowledgeable experts.”

While YourTour is an excellent way to kickstart your journey into the past, it’s not limited to beginners; even seasoned historians have made unexpected discoveries through YourTour. Renowned historian, novelist, and biographer Lady Antonia Fraser, who has penned over 30 historical books, attests, “I thoroughly enjoyed taking a YourTour, exploring a part of my own family history about which I knew surprisingly little. My Guide was charming and informative, filling our hour with interesting facts and actual archival records I’d never seen previously. I would highly recommend taking – or giving – YourTour to anyone with a passion for delving into history.”

Even those with well-documented ancestry have found surprises. Ben Goldsmith, a financier and environmentalist, known for his distinguished lineage, shares, “The tour with YourTour was one of the most illuminating, joyous things I’ve ever done. I knew next to nothing about my female ancestors on my mother’s side and learning about these remarkable women was just wonderful.”

Each YourTour session costs £162 and lasts one hour. Participants provide brief information about their parents (name, date of birth, etc.) in advance. To book a session for yourself or as a gift for others, or for more information, visit www.yourtour.live.

Addressing Men’s Mental Health: Rocketsmith Launches the ‘Heart Full of Hollow’ Campaign

Entertainment

Sam Allcock

-

12/10/2023

0

Addressing Men’s Mental Health: Rocketsmith Launches the ‘Heart Full of Hollow’ Campaign

Rocketsmith, the rock band hailing from Pickering, North Yorkshire, is taking a bold stand for men’s mental health with their latest campaign, centered around their song “Heart Full Of Hollow.” This song, which has recently been shortlisted for the UK Songwriting Awards, delves deep into the personal journey of lead singer Andy through a period of depression. Rocketsmith’s aim is to raise awareness, provide support, and inspire others who may be facing similar struggles through their campaign.

Heart Full Of Hollow: A Song about the Journey to Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

“Heart Full Of Hollow” is a poignant song that delves into a deeply personal and relatable experience of Rocketsmith’s lead singer, Andy, during a challenging episode of depression. Despite the appearance of a perfect life from the outside – a loving family, a thriving business, a passion for music, and a strong social circle – Andy found himself silently battling his inner demons.

“One day, after a minor irritation, a switch flipped,” recalls Andy. “I felt SO low, I was drowning in my own thoughts. I had lost touch with reality, seeing myself as a burden and a failure.”

Without warning, Andy left his home on autopilot, embarking on a solitary journey that lasted for many hours, ultimately leading him to a cliff edge overlooking a quarry. It was the distant sound of emergency sirens that snapped him back into reality, prompting him to choose to fight this internal struggle rather than succumb to the darkness.

The Journey to Recovery: A Documentary of Hope

In an effort to provide hope and support to others facing similar challenges, Rocketsmith has released a short documentary video that details Andy’s battle with depression, his path to recovery, and his commitment to living a better life with the help of support and self-improvement techniques.

Andy’s story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of seeking help when facing mental health challenges.

Band Members Share Their Personal Journeys

Rocketsmith comprises four musicians, each of whom has confronted their own mental health challenges and discovered solace in the world of music:

Mark N: A dedicated father of three, Mark N discovered his love for music as a teenager and found healing and personal growth through his musical journey. He now leverages his experiences to assist others in overcoming limiting beliefs and shaping their mindsets for success.
Andy: A lifelong music enthusiast, Andy’s passion for rock and roll began at a young age. He firmly believes in the transformative power of music to connect, heal, and inspire, and his journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Anth: Anth’s fascination with drumming started in childhood, and he has dedicated his life to music ever since. Music has been both his passion and therapy, guiding him through the darkest moments of his life.
Mark H: Inspired by iconic bass players from bands like Yes, Iron Maiden, and Motorhead, Mark H found solace in playing the bass guitar. He has returned to the stage to create powerful music and connect with audiences.

Join Rocketsmith in Their Campaign for Men’s Mental Health

Rocketsmith extends an open invitation to everyone to join them on their musical journey and participate in their campaign for men’s mental health. Through the transformative power of music and storytelling, they aim to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health issues and provide a beacon of hope and support for those in need.

To learn more about Rocketsmith’s campaign and watch the documentary video, visit their website at rocketsmith.band/hollow. Stay updated on their mission to make a difference in the world of men’s mental health by following them on social media at rocketsmith.band/social.

Through October and Beyond: Lexxic’s Commitment to Neurodiversity Excellence

Education

Sam Allcock

-

12/10/2023

0

Through October and Beyond: Lexxic’s Commitment to Neurodiversity Excellence

Lexxic, a leading neurodiversity consultancy dedicated to empowering neurodiversity in the workplace, is hosting a series of engaging and free events and panel discussions throughout October, aligning with key awareness dates during the month.

Lexxic proudly partnered with the Business Disability Forum for a special panel discussion that took place on October 4th at 1 pm (BST) to commemorate Dyslexia Awareness Week (2nd – 8th October). Titled “Celebrating the Diversity of Dyslexic Minds,” the discussion featured panelists representing diverse professions, roles, and backgrounds, sharing their unique strengths and experiences as dyslexic individuals in the workplace. The panel was chaired by Helen Musgrove, Director of Psychological Consulting at Lexxic, and co-chaired by Lucy Ruck, Taskforce Manager at Business Disability Forum. The conversation delved into strategies for employers to support and empower dyslexic employees.

In honor of Dyspraxia Week (9th – 15th October), Lexxic hosted “Dyspraxia (DCD): Support for Parents & Carers,” a free webinar on October 11th at 12 pm. This event was specifically designed for parents and carers of dyspraxic individuals, focusing on supporting neurodivergent children. The webinar aligned with Dyspraxia Week’s 2023 theme of “Community and Connectedness – the experiences of dyspraxic people and parents/carers.” An expert business psychologist from Lexxic explored dyspraxia, neurodifferences in children, the challenges they face, available support options including assessments for dyspraxia, and more. The event included a Q&A session.

To conclude October and commemorate ADHD Awareness Month, Lexxic hosted a second panel discussion in collaboration with the Business Disability Forum. Titled “Challenging Misconceptions and Embracing ADHD in the Workplace,” the event took place on Tuesday, October 24th, at 12 pm. Attendees heard from Helen Musgrove, Adrian Ward (Head of Business Partnerships at Business Disability Forum), and five outstanding panellists who celebrated the unique strengths and talents of individuals with ADHD while addressing and challenging common misconceptions. The panelists, hailing from diverse professions, roles, and backgrounds, drew on their lived experiences with ADHD.

For further details and registration information, please visit the Lexxic neurodiversity events page.

2023 Women in Business Awards Spotlight Top Female Entrepreneurs

Business

Sam Allcock

-

12/10/2023

0

2023 Women in Business Awards Spotlight Top Female Entrepreneurs

The 2023 Women in Business Awards, presented by Business Awards UK, proudly honor the remarkable accomplishments of exceptional women in the business world. These awards acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of inspiring female entrepreneurs across diverse industries, recognising their achievements in innovation, leadership, and success.

Women in Business Awards 2023 Winners

Maihvish Iqbal, AestheticsbyM – Social Media Businesswoman of the Year
Ava Whetstone-Magee, Avalanche Equestrian – Startup Businesswoman of the Year
Phillipa Nicholson, Blue Bull Recruitment Ltd – Recruitment Businesswoman of the Year
Shantell Moore, Dash Couriers (Wiltshire) Ltd – Businesswoman of the Year
Sian Saunders, DC Clean Group Ltd – Retail & Ecommerce Businesswoman of the Year
Tasmin Schöpp, Geopace Training – Training & Tuition Businesswoman of the Year
Jane Gray, GLOW&be, Cosmetics & Skincare – Creator / Influencer Businesswoman of the Year
Iesha Notice, ice Tickles Childcare – Charity Businesswoman of the Year
Carlissa Daniels, J&A (International) Limited – Leadership Award – Women in Business
Beverley West, Little Paws Microchipping & Ultrasounds – Young Businesswoman of the Year
Caitlin Wintin, Muddy Buddyz – Advertising Businesswoman of the Year
Vicki Sutton, Multiply Coaching – Coaching Businesswoman of the Year
Smita Gupta, Smita Gupta Advisory – Marketing Businesswoman of the Year
Smita Gupta, Smita Gupta Advisory – Business Consultant – Women in Business Award
Zunaira Maiwish, Tectah – Triumph over Adversity – Women in Business
Emma Tapper, The Friendly Chemical Co – Business Growth Award – Women in Business
Jo Bates, Thumbsie Ltd – Health & Wellbeing Businesswoman of the Year
Emma Wright, Vanilla Pod Beauty / Emma Wright Mentor – Networking Businesswoman of the Year

Women in Business Awards 2023 Finalists

Kirsty Crouch, Real and Raw Skincare – Body Shop at Home Consultant – Health & Wellbeing Businesswoman of the Year
Katie Howard, Chinwag Wines – Startup Businesswoman of the Year
Sian Saunders, DC Clean Group Ltd – Startup Businesswoman of the Year
Tasmin Schöpp, Geopace Training – Coaching Businesswoman of the Year
Jane Gray, GLOW&be, Cosmetics & Skincare – Business Growth Award – Women in Business
Iesha Notice, ice Tickles Childcare – Young Businesswoman of the Year
Carlissa Daniels, J&A (International) Limited – Young Businesswoman of the Year
Beverley West, Little Paws Microchipping & Ultrasounds – Businesswoman of the Year
Nicola Spencer, Love Autumn Rose – Social Media Businesswoman of the Year
Nicola Spencer, Love Autumn Rose – Marketing Businesswoman of the Year
Nicola Spencer, Love Autumn Rose – Triumph over Adversity – Women in Business
Caitlin Wintin, Muddy Buddyz – Creator / Influencer Businesswoman of the Year
Caitlin Wintin, Muddy Buddyz – Remote Working Businesswoman of the Year
Caitlin Wintin, Muddy Buddyz – Charity Businesswoman of the Year
Vicki Sutton, Multiply Coaching – Business Consultant – Women in Business Award
Zunaira Maiwish, Tectah – Businesswoman of the Year
Emma Tapper, The Friendly Chemical Co – Leadership Award – Women in Business
Emma Tapper, The Friendly Chemical Co – Retail & Ecommerce Businesswoman of the Year
Jo Bates, Thumbsie Ltd – Retail & Ecommerce Businesswoman of the Year
Emma Wright, Vanilla Pod Beauty / Emma Wright Mentor – Business Growth Award – Women in Business
Emma Wright, Vanilla Pod Beauty / Emma Wright Mentor – Creator / Influencer Businesswoman of the Year

The Women in Business Awards 2023 proudly recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of female entrepreneurs who have left an indelible mark in their respective industries. These women exemplify exceptional leadership, innovation, and business acumen, serving as role models for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Congratulations to all the winners and finalists of the Women in Business Awards 2023!

Wealth of products

Drop and go waste

Raising standards

About us

Company

Must Read

Subscribe to our newsletter