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A year of success for start-ups in Manchester

Blog

Sam Whitear

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05/12/2018

A year of success for start-ups in Manchester

Private office and coworking space, Accelerate Places Manchester, has reported a successful first year with thirty-seven businesses and nine freelancers making it their home over the last year.

In the last 4 months alone, nine businesses have moved into the building, on Princess Street, and a new manager has been appointed to grow the community of ambitious enterprises.

New businesses based at Accelerate Places Manchester include news and events hub, Prolific North; award-winning video production company, Groundbreak Productions; Irish marketing agency, Socio Local; and Airbnb management company, Airsorted.

Over the last year, many of its start-ups have also celebrated their own growth and successes. Nuuk Digital moved to Accelerate Places from Ireland in April 2017 and grew to a team of six before they moved in to their own office space. Bunting Software launched in November 2017 and grew to a team of eight and Zaptic, a frontline operations platform, secured funding and expanded into a new, larger office space in Accelerate Places.

Another Accelerate Places Manchester business, One Million Mentors (1MM), has recently secured funding for their programme in Greater Manchester. The organisation helps to pair professionals with young people looking to improve their professional skills and experience. Co-founders, Rushanara Ali MP and Alveena Malik, said: “We were keen to be in a space with thriving tech ideas because tech is a vital part of our organisation.

“We have found the Accelerate Places network and diverse range of businesses here really beneficial to bounce ideas off, make new partnerships and even recruit mentors from. We enjoy an excellent location with restaurants, cafes and public transport nearby so it is such an accessible space. Everyone is very friendly and hardworking and it is clear that the pioneers and leaders of tech in the North West are in this space, which motivates you to be more creative and productive.”

The team at Accelerate Places is also growing. Georgia-Kaye Berry has been appointed as Community Manager. Originally from Burnley, Georgia spent two years managing a business centre of serviced offices. She’s really excited about her new role as its more focused on the community aspect of the coworking space.

She said: “Accelerate Places is a fantastic place to work as you feel like you’re part of one big team and there are so many inspiring businesses here. I enjoy getting stuck in with our members and getting to know them and what makes them tick. I also enjoy being involved in organising our member events and making sure they are valuable for our members.

Lisa Murgatroyd, Business Manager, said: “It has been an incredible year for Accelerate Places Manchester. Both Accelerate Places and our businesses have enjoyed some incredible successes and we all feel very privileged to work in such a vibrant, dynamic and ambitious community.

“Georgia’s appointment strengthens our team and means that we now have three managers onsite working to support all the businesses and freelancers based here. These exciting and influential entrepreneurs have the opportunity to work together, whilst taking advantage of our huge support network and venture building expertise. We‘re now setting our sights on year two and looking forward to all the successes which I’m sure it will bring both to us and our members.”

Sunny Thinking raises £1700 for the Stroke Association

CSR

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05/12/2018

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Sunny Thinking raises £1700 for the Stroke Association

Altrincham-based creative marketing agency Sunny Thinking has raised over £1700 for the Stroke Association after taking part in 10 charity challenges throughout 2018 to mark its 10th birthday.

Each year, the team donate time and a percentage of profits to a chosen charity and for 2018 Sunny Thinking chose the Stroke Association. Jonathan Reed, managing director of the agency, has witnessed first-hand the devastation the condition can cause after his sister-in-law suffered a severe stroke at the age of 41.

“It just made sense to choose the Stroke Association for this year’s charity,” explained Jonathan.

“It’s a cause very close to my heart and one that we were eager to support. To coincide with our 10th birthday we decided to do 10 different events and activities. As a team, we’ve done everything from a sponsored silence and bake-off. To slightly more challenging things, like Tough Mudder and the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Rid. We’ve climbed Snowdon and even got the kids up Kinder Scout. The one I’m most proud of is doing the Leicester half marathon with my mum, who is 75 years old and a bit of a speed demon. The original target was £1,000 so we’re delighted to have smashed that.” he continued.

Leading veterinary congress moves to Manchester Central in three-year deal

Blog

Sam Whitear

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04/12/2018

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Leading veterinary congress moves to Manchester Central in three-year deal

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA), organiser of the largest and longest running small animal congress in Europe, has announced that they will move the event to Manchester from 2021 as part of a three-year deal.

The bid, which Manchester Central secured in partnership with Marketing Manchester, will bring up to 10,000 delegates to the city for five days of lectures, practical sessions and abstract presentations, and is estimated to be worth around £110 million to the city’s local economy over the three-year period.

The BSAVA Congress has been held at the ICC Birmingham for almost 30 years, with the organisers electing to move to Manchester to meet the evolving needs of delegates.

Speaking about the move, Angharad Belcher, Head of BSAVA Congress said: “We’ve had a first-class experience in Birmingham, and we could not have asked for more from the venue. We know that 2019 and 2020 will continue to be popular, however, it’s time to move BSAVA Congress forward and revitalise the offering to our delegates and exhibitors by bringing everything into one building. The move to Manchester enables us to invest even more in speakers and delegate experiences, to make BSAVA’s education programme truly unsurpassable.”

As one of the largest convention centres in the UK, the move to Manchester Central will also ensure that the exhibition, lectures and demonstrations will be held in the same venue, maximising the use of delegates’ time at Congress with exhibitors neatly integrated into the scientific programme.

This, combined with wider scope for an improved social programme at bars and restaurants across the city, will create a more efficient, exciting and educational event for vets and vet nurses to equip themselves with enhanced skills to support the wellbeing of the nation’s pets.

Sheona Southern, Managing Director at Marketing Manchester, said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen as the host city for BSAVA for their 2021 Congress which is well-known for being an exceptional event. When such a congress comes to Manchester, we take a lot of pride in welcoming delegates and we look forward to ensuring delegates find that Manchester is not just a convenient place to meet, but also an inspiring and vibrant place to spend time – to eat, stay, relax and network against the backdrop of a thriving culture, heritage and arts offering.

“We’re delighted that it’s also another win for the city’s partnership approach to bidding for large conferences. Attracting a conference of such size and prestige from another UK city is testament to the hard work of Manchester Central and Marketing Manchester, who came together to sell the city’s strengths and key assets.”

Shaun Hinds, CEO of Manchester Central said: “After getting to know the association and their vision, it was clear that they wanted to transform the experience of their delegates. The ambition of the association matches that of the city and Manchester has the perfect blend of venue and vibrancy to develop the BSAVA Congress of the future.

We’re delighted to be welcoming them in 2021 and we’ll work hard with the organisers to create a unique and remarkable experience for their delegates, exhibitors, partners and all visitors”.

Double helping for Medlock at Arndale’s new £11m food quarter

Blog

Sam Whitear

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04/12/2018

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Double helping for Medlock at Arndale’s new £11m food quarter

Leisure sector specialist Medlock FRB has completed the fit-out of two new casual dining venues at Manchester Arndale’s new £11m food quarter.

Medlock has fitted out units for Barburrito and WOLF at Halle Place, a new hub which will comprise 10 restaurants and a café when it is completed.

It is being created over two levels through the redevelopment of the 25,000 sq ft space previously known as Halle Square.

Arndale owners M&G Real Estate and Intu have undertaken the scheme to improve the centre’s food and drink provision and provide a ‘whole day’ retail and leisure destination.

Medlock carried out a six-week contract to fit out a 2,100sq ft unit for the UK’s first Mexican food chain, Barburrito. The restaurant can accommodate up to 74 diners. Medlock has previously delivered a scheme for Barburrito in Gateshead.

WOLF, an Italian street food concept, is a new client for Medlock, which fitted out a 1,100 sq ft site in a five-week project. The venue, which has up to 40 covers, is the first in the city for WOLF.

Both WOLF and Barburrito have external seating in the Halle Place atrium.

Medlock managing director Andy Dunster said: “The new Halle Place food hub development is a testament to growing success of the food and drink culture we’ve been seeing in recent years and we are delighted to be part of this scheme.

“Winning repeat business from a client is always a huge compliment to the hard work and dedication put in the Medlock team. Working at the same development with new client WOLF as well is a great achievement for the business.”

In Touch Networks named North West Fast 50 winner for third year in a row

Awards

Sam Whitear

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04/12/2018

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Networking solutions company In Touch Networks is the fastest growing technology business in the North West for the third consecutive year, according to Deloitte’s 2018 UK Technology Fast 50 awards.

The awards, now in their twenty-first year, recognise and rank the 50 fastest growing technology companies in the UK, based on the last four years of revenue growth.

Manchester-headquartered In Touch Networks, which utilises state of the art technology to boost the recruitment process for the hiring of non-executive directors, consultants and finance directors, experienced 1,524% growth over the last four years, placing it 19th in the overall rankings for the Fast 50.

Other North West businesses featured on the ranking included software provider Fruugo, which placed 29th in the ranking with a growth rate of 1014%, and The Lead Agency, a media and entertainment service which ranked 39th, achieving a growth rate of 662%. Both companies were new entrants to the Fast 50 list.

Matthew Roberts, CEO of In Touch Networks, said: “We’re delighted to be flying the flag for rapid growth in the North West technology sector for the third consecutive year. The significant growth we have seen over the last four years has been phenomenal, and has allowed us to further extend the services and products for our members.

“Our continued success and commitment to innovation has allowed us to both disrupt the industry and carry out valuable work socially. I am proud of the team at In Touch, and we strive to continue our fantastic growth as we head towards 2019.”

Claire Jolly, head of TMT at Deloitte in the North West said: “The North West has again cemented itself as a key player in the UK technology scene. With some fresh regional faces on this year’s list, and In Touch again placing within the top 20, there’s no doubt that the region’s technology industry is only growing stronger.

“In Touch Networks has seen phenomenal growth over the last few years, boasting a run-rate of £14m, up from a turnover of £5m just last year. Having launched its first network just 4 years ago, and already moving onto larger premises, In Touch Networks has firmly established itself as a disruptive force in the North West. I look forward to seeing how all the recognised businesses continue to evolve in 2019 and beyond.”

North West sweet experts helps launch sugar-free gum in Guyana

Blog

Sam Whitear

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04/12/2018

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North West sweet experts helps launch sugar-free gum in Guyana

UK confectionery expert Andy Baxendale is helping to launch sugar-free gum in Guyana after agreeing a deal to help the country’s leading sweet manufacturer.

Andy has just returned from the South American country’s capital, Georgetown, where he taught staff at Edward B Beharry and Co. Ltd how to pan the glossy exterior for the gum.

The company is trying to capture the local market before possibly exporting its new product, to take advantage of the move towards sugar-free sweets. The centre of the gum is also being made in-house.

Machinery for the gum production was installed two weeks before Andy’s arrival and he taught staff the art of panning using xylitol as a replacement for sugar.

Andy, from Wigan, said: “The process is to make a solution of the xylitol, spray it onto the gum centre and when it reaches the desired weight take it out of the pans and let it dry. Once dry it can be polished to a high shine.

“The staff had no experience when I went – I taught them from scratch, both processing and product knowledge.”

Former Marketing Director joins Social Republic

Appointments

Sam Whitear

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04/12/2018

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Former Marketing Director joins Social Republic

Former Cube3 digital marketing director has joined the Manchester office of social media agency, Social Republic.

Clair Heaviside joins the global agency as strategy director and will work alongside CEO, Rob Illidge, on client and internal strategies.

At her former agency, Clair worked with Revolution Bars Group, Merlin Entertainment & Urban Bubble, amongst a whole range of B2B and B2C clients.

In her new non-executive role at Social Republic, Clair will focus on developing creative campaigns for new and existing clients whilst leading the strategy direction for the agency, including its New York division. She will continue to work with her own portfolio of clients, including a mix of premium hospitality, retail and global brands.

CEO at Social Republic, Rob Illidge, said: “It’s an honour to have someone with Clair’s experience, creative flair and passion joining the team.

Her senior experience at agency-level will be invaluable asset to us, with her sharing my vision of growing an agency that genuinely offers brands a unique approach to campaigns.”

Clair added: “The vision of the Social Republic team is unique and inspiring. They have captured and delivered a way of working that aligns with the needs of modern businesses. And they are not afraid to push the boundaries of creativity. I am looking forward to working with Rob to drive the agency forward in this exciting period of international growth.”

Axis Tower becomes doorway to the past

Blog

Sam Whitear

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04/12/2018

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Already a landmark for the future, Axis Tower is set to become a doorway to the past with the burying of a time capsule in the very fabric of the building as part of an ancient tradition.

The 29-storey tower, one of Manchester’s most complex building projects, has reached its highest point, the Topping Out.

An official ceremony saw members of the project team celebrated and thanked as part of the centuries-old builders’ rite.

Main contractor Russells Construction hosted the event, with representatives from Alliance and the design team taking part in the ceremony, witnessed by more than 100 sub-contractors and suppliers. A stainless-steel time capsule was buried in a pre-formed opening in the ground floor reception lobby together with items including oil, wine, corn and salt which signify the medieval origins of the ceremony, before the final pour of concrete sealed the opening.

Students from the University of Salford, including trainees on the Russells Construction ‘Building Student Programme’ took part in the ceremony with the winner of a recent coursework module helping to lower the time capsule. Over the past semester, Russells has worked with university to further the students’ understanding of project management and programming.

John Millward, Russells’ construction director, explained the value of the event. He said: “Reference to ‘Topping Out’ can be found in the history of significant structures such as the Egyptian pyramids and the building of York Minster, and the rite is often recreated with modern construction projects. It’s important to take the opportunity for pause, reflect and thank everyone who has contributed to realising the vision for this landmark new building.

“On this occasion we have also worked with the university to introduce the students to aspects of the build and for them to really appreciate how much planning and management goes into each and every new building. They are the future of this industry and we hope incredible projects like Axis Tower will inspire them to become the very best construction professionals they can be.”

The university tie-in has seen students learning about the construction of Axis Tower, which stands on a constrained 761 sq metre wedge-shaped footprint on the bank of the Rochdale Canal and requires a temporary platform across the canal to allow access. The concrete structure splays out from the base to ‘clasp’ the upper floors which have larger floorplates than the foundations, in a complex feat of engineering. A new permanent bridge will be installed over the canal as the final piece of this complex and inspiring build.

Alongside learning about the scheme the students also helped selected a series of items which will be preserved for posterity within the capsule. These include a copy of Jon Matthews’ original sketch, a copy of the day’s Manchester Evening News, a copy of the winning student’s coursework, pictures of the site team and the project so far, material samples and a shop receipt containing current food costs.

John Millward added: “A record of the contents will be kept in the building and obviously we’re not expecting it to be opened for many, many years. But if, at some point the capsule is uncovered, we hope to give our future compatriots a glimpse into the current times and hope they will remember the workers who contributed to build this tower.”

When complete, Axis Tower will house 170 one- and two-bedroom luxury apartments and two three-bedroom penthouses, all with stunning views over the city and access to a 24-hour concierge service. Sales have already reached 75%, exceeding all expectations.

Dylan Williams, development director at Alliance, said: “Topping out is a significant milestone in the construction of any building and marks the first opportunity for people to really appreciate the true scale and presence of the new building. This is a really complex build and so this moment is also a chance for the team to take stock of what has been achieved and say well done to the guys on the ground. We’re incredibly pleased with the project so far, the skill of the delivery team is evident, and we’re delighted the project is being used to educate and inspire the next generation. There’s still many months’ work left, but it’s already clear what a fantastic statement this building will be when complete.”

Architect Jon Matthews said: “Axis has been 16 years from inception to completion and the building is testament to David Russell’s personal and financial commitment to the project and to its design integrity. A true force of nature, most others would have walked away through the bad times but David didn’t – so this is a truly significant moment. Buildings like this come along maybe once or twice in a career and I personally, and all the team, are immensely proud to be involved.”

TUI Airways becomes first UK airline to welcome new Boeing 737-8 MAX

Blog

Sam Whitear

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03/12/2018

0

TUI Airways becomes first UK airline to welcome new Boeing 737-8 MAX

TUI Airways has welcomed the first 737-8 MAX aircraft into the fleet, with the new Boeing aircraft departing on its inaugural passenger flight to Malaga, Spain.

A milestone occasion for the airline, TUI Airways is the first UK registered airline to take delivery of the new Boeing aircraft, and marks the first of 32 MAX to join the UK fleet as part of the airline’s investment and commitment to remain the most carbon-efficient operator.

Operating on short and mid-haul routes, the new aircraft type is one of the most carbon-efficient, with a reduced carbon footprint omitting lower emissions, using 14% less fuel than the previous 737-NG model, offering a longer range and a reduction in noise pollution. It also boasts a modern Boeing interior including in-seat, chargeable USB ports and mood lighting, allowing customers to travel in comfort and style.

The roll out of these aircraft over the next five years means TUI will soon have one of the youngest, most modern and carbon-efficient fleets in the sky, operating simply two aircraft types, 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner – servicing some of the most exciting destinations in the world, such as Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast of Mexico from Manchester.

Manchester is TUI Airways’ second largest hub, which is why the travel company is investing in the region through increased capacity, new routes, and basing new aircraft there such as the MAX allowing more choice and flexibility for holidaymakers in the North West.

John Murphy, Managing Director TUI Airways said, “Today we continue on our journey to be Europe’s most carbon-efficient airline as we welcome the first of these Boeing MAX aircraft into the TUI Airways fleet, joining our TUI Group colleagues who took delivery earlier this year.

“We have a strong history with Manchester, we launched the very first Dreamliner here back in 2013 so it made sense for us to make the North West a major hub for the new MAX and are proud to offer a diverse range of holidays destinations from the region.

“As a holiday airline, we believe the experience begins the moment you step on board, and by having one of the youngest, most modern fleets we hope to offer the very best service for our customers.”

Expansion for digital record label Ostereo

Blog

Sam Whitear

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03/12/2018

0

Expansion for digital record label Ostereo

Digital record label, Ostereo, has expanded its office space at Media City to 6,000 sq ft to accommodate its fast-growing team that has gone from two to 23 in two years.

Founded in 2016 by Howard Murphy, Ostereo has quickly grown from a two-man-band renting a desk in a coworking space to what is now a 23-strong team looking after ten acts, which have hit three billion streams between them in 2018 alone.

Ostereo has announced that it is investing £1m into promoting new releases in the first quarter of 2019.

Ostereo has now taken over an entire floor of what was coworking space at The Landing building at Media City. This coworking space has been moved to a new floor in the seven-story tech and media hub.

The business anticipates even faster growth in 2019, having recruited eight new full-time team members in the past three months to support its growing distribution and live events operations.

CEO of Ostereo, Howard Murphy, said: “We’ve launched the careers of artists from all over the world but not too long ago I was living in Blackpool, signing on and trying to get discovered as a singer-songwriter.

“To find a home for my music and make a living from writing songs, I started pitching to an audio-branding agency that provides the kind of ‘background music’ you hear on adverts and in shops. The first agency I approached asked me to come up with 500 songs in just two weeks so I started writing and talent-spotting at the same time – and it wasn’t long before the songs we delivered were placed with big brands like Mercedes-Benz and Ikea.

“I accidently built a music licensing company and this gave me the confidence and resources to later set up Ostereo, which works by pairing technology with old-fashioned A&R talent-spotting to discover acts that have the potential to reach global audiences.

“We’ve grown really quickly thanks to our work with signings like J Fla; she went from recording cover songs in her bedroom to amassing more than 10 million YouTube subscribers and achieving more than two billion video views.

“It’s a brilliant feeling to take over the whole floor I was once sharing with other start-ups and I hope it inspires others never to give up. We have some great plans for the future, so watch this space!”

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