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Peninsula MD Peter Done rated as the best CEO in the North West

Awards

Sam Whitear

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20/06/2019

Peninsula MD Peter Done rated as the best CEO in the North West

Peter Done, Group Managing Director and founder of global employment law consultancy, Peninsula has won a Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award honouring the Top CEOs in 2019.

Glassdoor, one of the world’s largest job and recruiting sites, released its annual award recognising the Top CEOs, which highlights top leaders that employees love working for in countries throughout Europe and North America.

Among chief executives recognised by employees in the UK, Peter Done received an impressive 93% approval rating based on the anonymous and voluntary reviews that Peninsula employees shared on Glassdoor throughout the past year. This approval rating made him the highest rated CEO in the North West.

Peninsula’s Group Managing Director and Founder, Peter Done, said: “It is a privilege to be recognised as part of this fantastic group of highly accomplished leaders. To know this award is based solely on the feedback of our employees makes it even more special.”

“This accolade is a real testament to the leaders at every level of our business, who are creating positive experiences for our employees every day. At Peninsula, our ultimate aim is to foster and facilitate the learning and development of every employee that steps through the doors, providing leadership and a work environment that is enriching and rewarding.”

Peter added: “For any budding entrepreneurs, my advice would be that a business is only as strong as the people who operate within it. Our business mantra is “success starts here”, so I think it is important for businesses to acknowledge that without the hard work and dedication of the talented individuals in their workplace, businesses wouldn’t achieve half of the success and recognition they receive.”

“It’s an honour to recognise incredible leaders who, from their employees’ perspectives, exemplify exceptional vision, trust and communication. Glassdoor’s Top CEOs award continues to be more competitive every year, and I congratulate each leader on their achievement,” said Christian Sutherland-Wong, Glassdoor president and chief operating officer. “Today’s job seekers are looking for leaders who share their values and will empower them to bring their full selves to work. More and more, we’re seeing Top CEOs make decisions to shape the culture of their organisations to help recruit and retain quality talent, which has a direct correlation to fuelling business success.”

High-profile projects take Truth Design through £1m turnover barrier

Sam Whitear

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20/06/2019

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Truth Design has achieved turnover of £1m for the first time in its 12-year history, boosted by an exciting range of high-profile projects spanning the hospitality, home improvements, furniture and higher education sectors.

The Manchester-based creative branding agency enjoyed its most successful financial year to date with work including projects for Clive Christian Furniture Company; University Academy 92 (UA92) – the new higher education institute founded by the former Manchester United players known as the Class of ’92 alongside academic pioneers, Lancaster University; hotelier Campanile; and Shaws of Darwen, a manufacturer and retailer of ceramic kitchen sinks.

Owned by Darren and Jo Scott, Truth Design was founded in 2006 to offer a range of creative services including branding, strategy and insight, and content.

Darren Scott said: “It has been an incredibly fulfilling year for Truth Design, completing a diverse range of challenging projects for clients across entirely different sectors. The principles and passion are the same whether we’re working on an entirely new higher education institution founded by some of the world’s most famous footballers, or a hospitality brand associated with more than 400 hotels. And yes, our work this year even included digital marketing activity for our client Shaws, a renowned manufacturer and retailer of ceramic kitchen sinks!”

Jo Scott, co-owner and Managing Partner at Truth Design and the broader Truth Creative group, added: “We excel at delivering brand experiences and that is reflected in the success that Truth Creative has enjoyed as a business in its latest financial year.”

Clive Christian Furniture Company engaged Truth to decouple the furniture brand from its sister perfume brand to offer clarity of the brand proposition. Truth created a unique standalone identity, whilst retaining aspects of the current brand, notably the heraldic symbol of the lion – aligning with the brand positioning of ‘Unapologetically British’. The company wanted to creatively engage with end-users, interior designers and architects across the globe.

Truth was initially asked to create a brand identity for University Academy 92, a game-changing model of Higher Education inspired by Gary Neville and the Class of ‘92 alongside Lancaster University. The brand needed to display their unique approach and point of difference in the market; a curriculum designed to promote excellence, knowledge and skills in the worlds of sport, media and business. Truth has continued to work with UA92, branding the new Trafford campus and supporting the organisation with student recruitment with collateral including a prospectus, brand advertising and UCAS exhibitions.

Truth’s digital marketing work with Shaws of Darwen in 2018/19 was the continuation of a brand-building exercise begun in 2016 and including international research to inform a better understanding of the manufacturer and retailer’s global markets.

Campanile, part of the Louvre Hotels Group, based in Paris – is a mid-to-low budget hotel chain offering rooms at affordable prices, in 18 UK locations, as well as across 10 different countries. Truth supported Campanile’s Food & Beverage offer with digital marketing activity, building on its previous branding work with the objective of driving footfall to the hotel, restaurant and bar, increasing sales and ensuring customers are booking “Far more than a room.”

onePT in Rochdale crowned best gym in the UK

Sam Whitear

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20/06/2019

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onePT in Rochdale crowned best gym in the UK

An independent Greater Manchester gym has been named the best in the country just over a year after opening and now plans to launch its successful model as a franchise business across the UK and Europe.

onePT has just been presented with the National Club of the Year accolade (the most prestigious award in the health & fitness industry) – as well as Regional Club of the Year for the North – at the UKactive Awards, beating hundreds of others in a rigorous judging process.

The 5000 sq foot gym opened in January 2018 and has built up a fiercely loyal membership community, thanks to its focus on commitment and communication, and a combination of top-level support and world-leading equipment and facilities.

It was set up and is managed by Dr Neil Fell PHD, who played a key role in the development of Total Fitness Health Clubs before setting up and managing the Sports Medicine and Human Performance Facility at St George’s Park (the training home of the England Football teams). The onePT facility has been designed and developed in strategic partnership with world-leading fitness equipment manufacturer, Exigo-UK.

Comments Neil: “The beauty of onePT really is its community. This is not just a target-focused business: we are encouraging our member family to be healthy for life – and this is why our members are staying with us.”

Neil adds: “The timing of this award is incredible, as we are just about to launch onePT as a franchise business. We have been fine tuning the model over the last six months and will be officially launching it in September 2019, although enquiries are being taken now.”

“The concept was always designed to be franchised – and we have ambitions both in the UK and abroad. We have been putting a range of systems in place, from risk management and compliance, health & safety and food safety management, to the best health and fitness personal training product systems and services, in order to make a facility very efficient and simple to operate. This way the staff can spend more time supporting the members, which is the most important aspect of our business.”

Neil concludes: “I have known the team at Exigo-UK for over 15 years, and it has been fantastic to work with them to create such a truly amazing and unique facility: they are so knowledgeable and passionate and their ideas added greatly to my own research and experience, providing one-complete solution from build, to in-house design, manufacturing and installation.”

Vodafone digital innovation hub opens in MediaCityUK

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20/06/2019

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Vodafone digital innovation hub opens in MediaCityUK

Vodafone has opened its Digital Innovation Hub in The Landing at MediaCityUK, Salford, to give the UK’s growing start-up community a head start in developing new 5G applications and services.

With more than 100 start-up companies in MediaCityUK alone, the Vodafone Digital Innovation Hub will provide entrepreneurs with access to network experts, the latest technologies, including 5G, IoT and high-speed fibre and a space to work together and exchange ideas.

As part of its multi-billion network investment, Vodafone is rolling out 5G to 19 towns and cities across the UK this year and plans to establish similar technology hubs in other locations.

At the opening event, entitled ‘Go Beyond’, attendees heard from experts representing retail, manufacturing and media industries as well business leaders and the City Major of Salford about the challenges and opportunities facing start-ups. They also discussed how 5G will open the door to new business opportunities and what the launch of the Digital Innovation Hub will bring to the area.

Delivering her keynote speech, Anne Sheehan, Business Director, Vodafone UK said: “The Digital Innovation Hub is an example of how we are empowering today’s start-ups and small businesses with the expertise and technologies to help turn their blueprints into reality. Our 5G services can help UK start-ups become global leaders in their fields.”

Paul Dennett, City Major of Salford, added: “We are delighted that Vodafone has selected the city for its first Digital Innovation Hub. Such investment and commitment from the private sector supports our ambition to make Salford one of the world’s most attractive cities for digital enterprises. It will also boost the local economy and help attract new jobs and opportunities for the people of Salford, Great Manchester and beyond. This commitment also further strengthens Salford’s Innovation Triangle connecting MediaCityUK with the University of Salford and Salford Royal Foundation Trust, our outstanding and leading hospital in the City.”

Jon Corner, Chief Executive at The Landing, said: “We’re extremely proud that Vodafone is investing in the business community here in Salford. The new 5G Hub will help unlock MediaCityUK as a living lab for smart city innovation and as a key technology asset for the North West, providing the very best foundations for start-ups, small businesses and entrepreneurs to drive their technology and connect globally.”

Norwegian announces new route from Manchester to Bergen

Blog

Sam Whitear

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20/06/2019

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Norwegian announces new route from Manchester to Bergen

Norwegian is expanding its Scandinavian network at Manchester Airport with the addition of a new non-stop service to Bergen. Passengers in Manchester and the North West will now be able to explore the Norwegian city of Bergen for less this winter with fares from £43.90 one way.

The new route will commence on the 28 October 2019 for the winter season with two weekly flights on a Sunday and Thursday, offering consumers more choice when travelling with Norwegian to Scandinavia.

As the Gateway to the Fjords of Norway, a UNESCO World Heritage City and a European City of Culture, the Bergen region combines nature, culture and urban life all in one place. Visitors can enjoy a trip to take in the spectacular landscape views of the fjords, before enjoying the history and culture of Bergen.

Magnus Maursund, SVP commercial Short Haul at Norwegian, said: “Norwegian’s new flight to Bergen from Manchester will allow passengers in the North West to take advantage of our affordable fares all while enjoying our award-winning complimentary Wi-Fi and modern comfortable cabin on new state-of the-art aircraft.”

Julian Carr, Aviation Director at Manchester Airport, added: “It’s great to see Norwegian increase its destination choice from Manchester Airport to include Bergen. I am sure this route will prove incredibly popular with the 22 million passengers in our vast catchment area by giving more accessibility to this Scandinavian city.”

KCI Medical agrees lease extension at lothbury’s premier park

Blog

Sam Whitear

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19/06/2019

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KCI Medical agrees lease extension at lothbury’s premier park

Lothbury Investment Management Limited, on behalf of Lothbury Property Trust, has agreed a three year lease extension on Unit 12 at Premier Park, Manchester with KCI Medical, the world’s largest advanced wound care company.

KCI Medical, which has been located on Premier Park since 2009, has taken a three-year lease with a one and a half months rent free period on the 6,092 sq ft unit at £7.75 per sq ft, generating an annual rental income of £47,275pa.

Perry Linch, Head of Asset Management at Lothbury Investment Management, said: “Premier Park Manchester is a high quality, multi-let industrial estate. The park remains at 100% occupancy and is one of the top 25 performers in the Lothbury Property Trust portfolio. KCI Medical have a very strong covenant and we are very happy that they have chosen to renew their lease and remain on the park. The excellent rental figure achieved underlines the strong and continuing demand for good quality accommodation at this high profile industrial estate.”

Nominations open for Manchester Hoteliers’ Association Annual Ball and Awards

Awards

Sam Whitear

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19/06/2019

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Nominations open for Manchester Hoteliers’ Association Annual Ball and Awards

Nominations have opened ahead of the 16^th Manchester Hoteliers’ Association (MHA) Annual Ball.

The event, which celebrates the city’s dynamic and diverse hospitality offer, will take place at The Principal Manchester on Friday, 11 October, 2019.

More than 600 people from the region’s hospitality industry are expected to attend and ten awards will be handed out on the night.

The 16^th edition of the MHA Ball will see a winner crowned in the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality’ category, which honours a long serving individual who has made a significant impact on the hospitality industry across the Manchester city region.

Other categories open for entry include Back of House Customer Service, Bright Idea Award, Front of House Customer Service, Mentor of the Year Award, Rising Star Award, Top Team Award, Unsung Hero Award and Young Chef of the Year.

Adrian Ellis, Chair of MHA, said: “Last year’s event raised a total of £37,000 for MHA’s chosen charities. Hospitality Action was credited with 50% of the funds raised, receiving £18,333, with the remaining amount equally split between charities including Mustard Tree, Breast Cancer Care and The Christie.

“The theme for the 2019 Ball and Awards will be ‘The Roaring 20’s’ and we are urging everybody in our industry across the city region to get involved.

“It promises to be yet another fantastic evening of celebrating talent and achievements while once again raising funds for some brilliant charities.”

Office move for Seven Architecture

Blog

Sam Whitear

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19/06/2019

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After 10 years being located on Oxford Street, Seven Architecture’s Manchester team, led by co-directors Ian Chapman and Lisa Mcfarlane, has relocated to larger premises at Waulk Mill in Ancoats.

The Company has grown to a team of 30 across all studios; with nine new recruits in the last six months. Two new studio leaders in the Manchester office have also been announced recently. Associates Zoe Hobson and Stephen Last, who have been with the Business eight years collectively, will be leading their respective teams specifically in the living and education sectors.

Relocating to the Urban Splash office accommodation is ideally suited to one of Seven’s key vision statements of ‘enriching heritage’ and director and RIBA conservation architect, Lisa Mcfarlane, who leads this sector, was immediately drawn to the impressive renovated building.

Lisa Mcfarlane, said: “With Waulk Mill being one of the first historic mills in the area to be redeveloped by Urban Splash, and subsequently winning a RIBA Award back in 2003, we definitely feel at home already. The interior design and fit-out was carried out by ourselves and we were mindful of creating a quality and inviting environment for our team to work within which values the principles of health & wellbeing. In addition to the natural daylight which floods into the space, we’ve also incorporated breakout spaces for quiet time, planting throughout, strategic zone lighting and a pop of colour in our furniture selection.”

Ian Chapman, added: “The Business has taken a step-change over the last year and our sustained growth has allowed us to expand into this new Manchester office as we had, quite literally, grown out of our previous space. With a continued focus on our vision of ‘Improving Lives, Inspiring Learning and Enriching Heritage’ we have confidence that our new office, and projects being carried out, represent this.”

St Ann’s Hospice appoints new trustees

Appointments

Sam Whitear

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18/06/2019

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A local charity has announced two new trustees who have joined its board of directors to help steer the organisation towards its 50^th anniversary.

St Ann’s Hospice has appointed chartered accountant Darren Holt as its treasurer, and Melanie Ogden, a senior clinical leader with experience at strategic, primary and secondary care levels within the NHS as a trustee.

The charity cares for thousands of people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses every year from its three sites in Little Hulton, Heald Green, and The Neil Cliffe Centre in Wythenshawe Hospital, as well as via a range of community and outreach services. The trustees of the organisation are all volunteers.

Jackie Oldham, chair of the board, said: “It’s an exciting time at St Ann’s, as we approach our 50^th anniversary in 2021, and we’re thrilled that Darren and Mel have agreed to join us as trustees. Each member of our board brings with them a unique set of skills and experience, and it’s vital we have the right people helping us to steer our ambitious plans for the business in the coming years.

“The organisation is certainly a complex one, with fourteen shops, a hospice lottery, and a range of fundraising activities running alongside the health and social care we offer to patients from across Greater Manchester and their families.

“The team at the hospice provides world-class specialist care at a time when people need it most, and as a board we’re proud to be part of such an outstanding and much-loved organisation. It’s great that Mel and Darren have joined us, and I’m sure they’ll play an important part in helping us ensure hospice care in Greater Manchester remains fit for purpose for many future generations to benefit from too.”

St Ann’s is a registered charity and receives around a third of its funding from the NHS, with the rest, around £20,000 a day, fundraised thanks to the generosity of the local community.

Darren Holt, said: “St Ann’s does wonderful work supporting patients and their families at what could be the worst of times, in such a way that ensures it is the best it can be. To be given the opportunity to help to sustain and hopefully extend that work is, in itself, an honour and I expect it will also be prove to be a pleasure.”

Mel Ogden, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the St Ann’s team who have a national reputation for caring.

“When I worked in the NHS we often talked about how we often met people at their most vulnerable and life changing point in their lives, and we tried to embody the values as set out in the NHS constitution – ‘compassion is central to the care we provide and respond with humanity and kindness to each person’s pain, distress, anxiety or need. We search for the things we can do, however small, to give comfort and relieve suffering. We find time for patients, their families and carers, as well as those we work alongside’. I see that being put into everyday practice by the staff and volunteers at St Ann’s, and it’s an honour to be asked to join the board of trustees.”

It’s Gone Viral reports highest ever Tubular Rankings

Blog

Sam Whitear

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18/06/2019

0

It’s Gone Viral reports highest ever Tubular Rankings

It has been reported that It’s Gone Viral, the Manchester headquartered social media marketing company, has secured its highest ever Tubular Rankings since it was founded in 2016 by Matthew Thomas, Andrew Trotman and Ryan Williams. Tubular is the measurement standard for online video, and is widely cited by the global industry and press for the very latest in video insights, trends and strategy.

The latest list of official stats covering confirmed that It’s Gone Viral was the fifth most viewed Entertainment page on Facebook in the UK with over 545 million views last month. Its previous highest ranking was 10th in April 2019. It was also named ninth in the world on the Entertainment page list. On a more general note, it was the seventh most viewed of all pages in the UK on Facebook and 18^th globally.

The firm has seen its reach and viewing figures grow from 738 million to 2.2 billion views in the past year. It now has 3.5 million followers across its Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and LinkedIn accounts.

Andrew Trotman said: “Tubular Rankings is the benchmark in terms of global credibility in our sector so securing these positions is testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team. The last two years has seen the business grow as we have focussed on creating our own exciting and original content as well as viral campaigns for international brands such as BBC Films, O2, Universal, Bud Light and Disney.

Andrew added: For us, these results are just the start as our aim is to become one of the most influential media companies in the UK within the next five years.”

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