Chesterfield businesses are highlighting how they are becoming more sustainable and playing their part in reducing carbon emissions, waste, and pollution.
Earth Day 2024 provides the perfect opportunity to showcase our businesses that are taking responsibility and looking after our corner of the world. Many companies across Chesterfield are implementing eco-friendly practices and innovative solutions to reduce their carbon footprint and minimise impact to the environment.
Several recent developments have indicated the town’s commitment to sustainability, including the recent office spaces at One Waterside Place and the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. The former achieved a BREEAM Very Good rating, while the latter was rated Excellent.
Last month, Chesterfield Borough Council approved a new annual delivery plan that aims to ensure the council is a carbon neutral organisation by 2030 and that the borough is carbon-neutral by 2050. Investing in even more green vehicles, continuing to make council homes more energy efficient and making further progress towards decarbonising key council buildings – including leisure centres and the Town Hall – are among the actions set out in the council’s climate change plan for the coming year.
What’s more, future schemes such as the PEAK Gateway Resort will also be developed with sustainability in mind. PEAK’s masterplan includes a zero carbon carless mobility system offering day passes to visit the national park, and will generate its own energy on-site.
The town’s Property and Construction Group also regularly holds focused discussions on the subject of sustainability, enabling sector leaders to share knowledge and best practice.
Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “As consumers increasingly prioritise sustainability, Chesterfield businesses are not only meeting regulatory requirements but also seizing competitive advantages by aligning with environmental values. Earth Day serves as a catalyst for businesses to accelerate their efforts in building a more sustainable and resilient future.”
We spoke to several figures from our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions to find out how businesses in the area are playing their part.
Claire Wilks, FWD Motion
At the heart of our business lies an unwavering commitment to sustainability across all our business operations- and we are increasingly finding this principle mirrored in clients’ priorities and decision-making too. We think about how our products sourced, produced delivered and even end-of-life recycling- the whole lifecycle is considered with eco-consciousness in mind. Embracing local suppliers and UK-made products, and we are also now using more environmentally friendly UV link (rather than solvent inks)- and we are dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint still further. We have taken proactive steps transitioning our entire vehicle fleet to electric, with charging points at our headquarters. And our initiatives include a bee-friendly garden and encouraging a cycle commute with onsite showers. Solar panels power our HQs with plans for further expansion. This approach underscores our mission to promoting environmentally sustainability in all aspects of our mission.
Sophie Pashley, Peak Pharmacy
We currently assemble about 1.5million patient prescription items each month. This means thousands of paper bags. With our new system, bags are made from compostable potato starch immediately decreasing paper use. Our workplace travel plan encourages car sharing, and use of electric vehicles, for delivery vehicles and staff cars. The movement sensor lighting in our building turns lights off when parts of the building are unoccupied. Where possible, waste generated on site is recycled and we continually look for ways to improve this further.
Gareth Paradise, Global Brands
We’ve got a team of staff who are dedicated to continually improving our sustainability. We’ve recently invested in solar panels to take the bulk of our power demands. We constantly monitor power use and look to install devices and practices to reduce consumption. Our cardboard and plastic are all recycled from our warehouse, which amounts to quite a lot each year! Last year we completed our first carbon footprint assessment, setting clear targets to become carbon net zero by 2050.
Bridget Ball, Chesterfield FC
Steps have been taken to reduce the use of electricity around the stadium, where possible. Chesterfield FC Community Trust deliver sessions in schools, outlining the importance of protecting the environment and advising how youngsters and their families can do their bit to become eco-friendly.
Kelly Parks, Banner Jones Solicitors
Legal Firms are historically very paper-heavy but in recent years we have made a real effort to reduce our paper trail, opting for online files and court bundles. This drive has been seen across the whole business and is probably the most significant change in our environmental footprint. We also conduct far more client meetings on the phone and online which saves them a trip to our offices, which means less traffic pollution.
Richard Fowler, RA Information Systems
One of our key priorities is environmentally conscious outsourcing to diminish our carbon footprint. We’ve partnered with ASK4 Data Centre, a facility powered entirely by renewable energy derived from wind, hydro, and solar sources. This strategic collaboration not only aligns with our commitment to sustainability but also provides our clients with tangible evidence of our dedication to eco-friendly practices. In addition to this, we actively participate in recycling electronic waste.
Jon Harris, Minuteman Press Chesterfield
All the papers we use are FSC accredited, meaning they come from sustainable managed forests. All our waste paper and toner cartridges are either recyclable or sent back to be re-used. In our line of business, we believe it is important to educate customers on the process behind the print and try to ensure we are using processes which cause the least damage to our environment and reduce the amount of waste.
Mike Jones, Windowcharm Blinds and Curtains
Sustainability remains a focal point for me. I constantly seek ways to improve by sourcing materials locally whenever feasible, prioritizing UK-based suppliers who manufacture components domestically rather than overseas. Embracing a local workforce and encouraging car-sharing among staff contribute to our sustainability efforts. We responsibly recycle/reuse waste materials and emphasize overhauls and refurbishments over replacements whenever possible.
Rob Carlin, Superior Wellness
With innovation being one of our brand values, every time we innovate we think about the environment. We have installed solar panels on the roof of the warehouse, have electric forklifts and sourcing sustainable materials for our production facility. We also have a couple of charging points for vehicles and over the next few years this number will increase.
Peter Botham, Shed Grounds Maintenance
Sustainability is at the heart of our approach at Shed, and we are proud to have achieved ISO 14001 certification, a testament to our environmental responsibility. We’ve been proudly paper-free since 2019, reducing unnecessary waste and resource consumption. We’re also making strides in our vehicle fleet by adopting electric vans and company cars.
Jenna Frudd, Wilmott Dixon
The built environment generates 40% of annual global CO2 emissions, so we want to make sure we’re making a difference where it counts. This applies to our own business’ sustainability goals as well as helping our customers on their own sustainability journeys. We have a 2020-2030 sustainability strategy named Now or Never that includes ambitious targets. Two of these targets are to become a net-zero carbon business, as well as ensuring all new buildings and major refurbishments we deliver for our customers achieve net zero operational carbon by the end of the decade.
Scott Fullaway, Stepnell
“At complete construction partner Stepnell, we are committed to using a local supply chain wherever possible to support a sustainable local low carbon economy. Our dedicated energy and renewables team, Step Energy, provides bespoke solutions to help our clients save energy and reduce their carbon output throughout the project lifecycle. By developing and delivering commercially appropriate renewable energy strategies, we can help clients meet their energy requirements and contribute to a low carbon built environment.”
Curtis Newsome, Eden Tyres and Servicing
We make sure that all our tyres are sent to a recycling centre, where they can be made into astroturf, riding areas or re-used in construction materials. Eden have also made the switch to electric vehicles for the management team & have been working to install EV charges in the branches. A bike to work scheme has recently been introduced & we’ve got a workshop full of tools to keep our bikes in top condition. We also make sure our oil is disposed of properly.
William Thomas, MSE Hiller
“Here are a few improvements we have put in place at MSE to help make our business as sustainable as possible. We have a rainwater recovery system installed. The rainwater is stored in underground tanks where it is filtered and circulated throughout the workshop for further use on various applications such as our high-pressure wash bay. All our overhead lighting in the workshop has now been converted to energy efficient LED units. These units have built in motion sensors that turn off the LED’s when they are not required. We have also utilised our roof space by installing solar panels. These panels have proven to be incredibly efficient, halving our annual energy costs. In fact, the panels harvest so much energy that, in addition to our other energy recovery systems, it puts power back into the grid.”
The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
This World Creativity and Innovation Day, we’re celebrating the amazing talent and achievement of businesses based here in Chesterfield.
From new systems to improve efficiency or sustainability, to harnessing the power of AI – our businesses are constantly looking for new ways to gain a competitive and creative edge.
World Creativity and Innovation Day is celebrated globally on April 21 to raise awareness about the importance of creativity and innovation in problem-solving for sustainable development. The United Nations founded this day to highlight the role of culture, creative industries, and initiatives in various sectors to promote creativity and innovation.
Peter Swallow, Destination Chesterfield Chair, commented: “We are so proud of the way our businesses contribute to the wider national and global economy, right here in Chesterfield.
“Our town has transformed itself in recent decades, from being known for traditional industries such as mining and mineral extraction, to now becoming a place where advanced manufacturing businesses and exciting creative and digital companies call their home.
“We’re pleased to share with you how many of our businesses are continuing to grow and innovate, giving them a competitive edge and ensuring Chesterfield’s economy continues to evolve and thrive.”
Here are just some of the brilliant successes from Chesterfield and North Derbyshire’s creative and innovative organisations which we have seen over the last few months.
Noonah reveals cutting-edge AI photo booth
Noonah, a Chesterfield company with expertise in event technology, has announced the launch of a state-of-the-art AI Photo Booth for immersive brand experiences.
The firm says its latest innovation guarantees an exceptional event journey, with high-quality outputs, generated with unmatched resolution and artistic flair. It promises to elevate every captured moment, with rapid output generation within seconds, meaning attendees can instantly see their AI-enhanced photos in real time.
Safety and customisation take centre stage, as the booth is fully brandable and offers robust moderation tools, ensuring a secure and tailored experience. Noonah’s commitment to inclusivity is evident with ethnicity consideration, promoting diverse and representative outputs.
In addition, Noonah’s in-house tech team is continually introducing new modes, making the AI Photo Booth future-proof for any event or brand activation. Built for versatility, ease of setup, portability, and onsite technical support makes it ideal for pop-ups, conferences, and diverse event settings.
The new technology can include features such as:
AI Themer Mode, which seamlessly transforms your audience into avatars of your chosen theme, whether it’s a dynamic brand campaign, a blockbuster film release, or a seasonal setting.
AI Headshots Mode, providing versatile headshots which can serve as event media, perfect for ID badges, office lanyards, and professional platforms like LinkedIn.
AI TimeMachine Mode, allowing users to experience historical milestones, future landscapes, or age transformations.
AI Stylize Mode, transforming ordinary snapshots into pieces of art, each embodying a unique and visually striking style. Whether it’s the charm of anime, the fun of cartoons, the bold strokes of comics, or even the elegance of renowned art styles.
AI Destination Mode, which can allow attendees to picture themselves amid the lush greenery of a jungle, the tranquil shores of a beach, the bustling energy of New York’s Times Square, or even the majestic grandeur of the pyramids.
“This new AI Photo Booth redefines how brands connect with their audiences at events,” said Hannah Mott, Marketing Manager at Noonah. “It’s not just a booth; it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences.”
Custom Solar launches new robot to clean and maintain solar panels
A new robot has been created by Custom Solar, providing an inventive new solution to maintain solar panels.
The SolarCleano F1 has been designed to meet all needs in cleaning all types of solar installations, ensuring panels can work as effectively as possible and supporting the production of renewable and sustainable energy.
The robot can be dismounted into 4 parts for easy transportation. Highly mobile, it can be easily carried and operated by one person. The assembly and disassembly of the robot can be completed within 3 minutes.
A Custom Solar spokesperson commented: “As a company that has seen continuous growth over the last few years, adapting and evolving to new technologies comes as a standard. Here at Custom Solar, we wouldn’t be able to offer our clients the fantastic, pioneering projects that we can, without the support of advanced technologies such as our cleaning robot.
“Alongside our use of advanced tech, we have internal engineering and construction capability to design, develop, engineer and deliver multi technology services. These include, solar rooftop and car port solutions, civil engineering, LED lighting, HV and LV electrical infrastructure, EV solutions and BESS. The ability to deliver all the above showcases how far ahead we are in our industry, as Solar has been primarily a sub-contracted workforce.
“It is so important that we continue innovating and evolving with technology as this is what keeps us as the UK’s leading commercial Solar PV Developers.”
CarMats.co.uk innovates at new Chesterfield HQ to meet rising demand
CarMats.co.uk, a business specialising in UK-manufactured tailored car mats to fit every make and model, recently announced the opening of its 7,500 sq ft warehouse facility located on Chesterfield Trading Estate.
Since then, the organisation has been able to scale up its production and growth rapidly. Ash Young, Managing Director of CarMats.co.uk explained how the organsiation has adapted to capitalise on the demand it has experienced.
He said: “If we hadn’t done things differently, we wouldn’t have seen the growth that we have. When we set up the business we were aiming for 100 orders per day, but because we changed the way we marketed the products, we are now shipping around 150,000 orders per year and we’re going to turn over about £7.5m this year.
“We’ve managed to hire a really skilled team in Chesterfield and the transport links mean it’s easy for us to get out to couriers easily.”
Trio of Chesterfield businesses join forces in sustainable collaboration
Three businesses, all based in Chesterfield have entered a collaborative network to assist their customers with sustainability and efficiency.
LB Electrical Contractors, Choice Utility and Infrared group have entered into a collective commitment to a more sustainable and technologically advanced future, after firms recognised the complimentary nature of each others’ strengths.
Choice’s proficiency in business energy, Infrared Group’s groundbreaking infrared heating panels, and LB Electrical’s expertise in solar panel and battery storage installation enable them to join forces, creating a comprehensive solution that not only enhances user experiences but also fosters innovation and efficiency.
In terms of supporting business in the area, the collaboration intends to provide a holistic approach. It seeks drive economic growth in the town, promote technological advancement, and create a positive impact on the community.
Dan Molloy, Director, Choice Utility said: “We are really excited about this collaboration as it allows us to focus our efforts locally to advise a large array of different businesses in all elements of their energy costs.
“We are committed to helping businesses reduce their costs in all aspects, we have always been able to help enhance energy pricing for all our customers and advise in energy reduction measures but now we have a fantastic opportunity to work together formally with both LB Electrical & Infrared Group, giving us the confidence that our clients are receiving the very best service.”
Lee Burgess, Director, LB Electrical Contractors Ltd. added: “LB Electrical are thrilled to be part of the exciting collaboration with Choice and Infrared. This partnership brings together the expertise of Choice in providing flexible solutions and the cutting-edge technology of Infrared, and we couldn’t be more pleased to contribute our electrical expertise to this innovative initiative.
“By integrating our services, we are dedicated to supporting businesses in optimizing energy costs and promoting sustainability. Together, we aim to implement energy-efficient solutions that not only reduce operational expenses but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly business environment.
Weightron Bilanciai showcases digital weighing system to improve accuracy and efficiency
Weightron Bilanciai. Bridge Way, Chesterfield
Chesterfield-based manufacturer, Weightron Bilanciai has launched a new product, which will support businesses in improving their accuracy, efficiency and compliance.
The company has unveiled WinWeigh 5, a dedicated, user-friendly cloud based weighing package, which gives unrivalled versatility and flexibility, opening up new dimensions in the management of weighing data.
WinWeigh5 revolutionises the way businesses manage their weighbridge and weighing operations by providing a comprehensive and user-friendly platform. This powerful software is designed to streamline weighbridge processes, reduce manual errors, and improve overall productivity for businesses of all sizes.
Companies can seamlessly integrate WinWeigh5 with their existing systems, such as accounting software, ERP solutions, and more. Users can automate data entry, invoicing, and reporting to save time and reduce errors.
The software enables businesses to ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards with built-in reporting tools, by generating accurate reports for regulatory authorities, audits, and internal analysis.
WinWeigh 5 also has the ability to weigh lorry loads without the need for drivers to leave their cabs. The software controls integrated ANPR cameras, traffic lights, traffic barriers and driver-operated terminals. These touch screen terminals, fitted with RFID card readers, guide drivers through the weighing process, without the need for them to leave their cabs.
“We are excited to introduce WinWeigh5 to the market,” said Nick Catt, CEO of Weightron Bilanciai. “We believe this software will significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of weighbridge data management and weighing processes for our customers. With its cloud-based architecture, robust features, and user-friendly design, WinWeigh5 sets a new standard for weighbridge automation and management.”
Peak Pharmacy improves efficiency by investing in new technology
Chesterfield-based Peak Pharmacy has invested in new, innovative equipment to speed up its processes, along with improving accuracy and capacity.
The organisation recently moved to a new headquarters at the Horizon 29 development near Chesterfield and is now investing in an Austrian system provided by Knapp to improve the way it dispenses medications for customers.
Managing Director, Joe Cattee explained: “Knapp partners with a number of organisations within the country already and supports with the ability to pick products by using fully automated and manual picking zones for speed and convenience.
“The attraction to work with this provider was that they have designed a system that enables us to dispense patients’ medication at our site. This takes this workload out of community pharmacy and creates capacity within our pharmacy network for our teams to support patients in different ways.
“The machine is significantly more accurate than human dispensing, and the speed in which we can dispense medication means that we can do approximately half of all the prescriptions we do on a monthly basis through our Hub. Clearly, there will be some requirements to support and educate both our pharmacy teams and patients, but it enables us to revolutionise what we do under extremely challenging conditions.”
The new technology is helping Peak Pharmacy to revolutionise how it operates, enabling the business to continue thriving during a challenging economic climate.
Joe added: “By investing in automation at our Hub, we reduce the stress and pressure on our pharmacy teams, ensuring a better level of patient care is provided. The launch of the ‘Pharmacy First’ scheme on 31st January 2024, enabling community pharmacy to treat seven common health conditions without visiting a GP, shows the direction of travel that community pharmacy needs to undertake.
“By removing dispensing volume across our estate, and assembling centrally, we can ensure a more accurate and timely service of medication provision, whilst also having capacity to engage in more NHS and private services to support patient wellbeing. In short, if we don’t adapt then we will not remain a viable business. Community pharmacy plays a huge part in supporting the country, but the financial reimbursement for what we do means that the costs of running our business now outweigh the revenue we receive for the services we provide.”
Global Brands collaborates to provide sustainable drinks solution for Red Engine bars
Independent soft drinks and mixers brand, Franklin & Sons, part of Chesterfield-based Global Brands is launching a new-to-market product format.
The product will be launched across all UK Red Engine sites, the team behind Flight Club and Electric Shuffle.
Franklin & Sons has been working on producing a 200ml can for its Premium Indian & Premium Light Tonic in a bid to support the company with its sustainability goals, and has found perfect launch partner in Red Engine.
Flight Club and Electric Shuffle are two competitive socialising venues that have risen rapidly in popularity over the last few years, modernising traditional games such as darts and shuffleboard to reinvent the bar experience for the 21st century.
The aluminium cans weigh 94% less than the 200ml glass bottles, leading to a reduction in weight per case, significantly reducing transportation costs, fuel consumption and packaging volume, leading to a much lower carbon contribution.
Crucially for a hospitality venue, this initiative will also minimise waste and is projected to create a substantial 42% reduction in wastage removal expenses for Red Engine.
James Stimson, Senior Brand Manager at Franklin & Sons added: “At Franklin & Sons, we are constantly innovating, and pride ourselves on demonstrating agility when it comes to meeting our customers’ needs.
“We’re pleased to be extending our partnership with an institution such as Red Engine, and that we have been able to provide a solution for such a valued customer. Aluminium cans are infinitely recyclable, using 95% less energy than producing new packaging, and creating 65% less CO2e during the recycling process than their glass counterparts.
“We look forward to seeing the benefits this will bring to the business and are excited to be alongside them in their sustainability journey.”
Highlight Crafts showcases design and print technology
Headed up by life-long crafter Stephanie Weightman and husband Karl, Highlight Crafts designs and produces products for a range of crafts including papercraft, fabric, mixed media, flower making, painting, digital crafting and so much more from their offices based in Clay Cross, Chesterfield. Customers can buy these products through their own website or through shopping channel Create & Craft.
The team at Highlight Crafts is aiming to be as sustainable as possible in their creation of new products. All paper products are printed by local printers which helps other local businesses in the area. All fabric is designed and printed in house on the companies printers, with much of this being printed to order, to cut out waste. They also have three large laser cutters enabling them to produce their own stencils cutting out unnecessary extra deliveries and packaging needs. The company has also recently just switched to paper packaging for their paper crafting dies helping to reduce the amount of plastic across all their packaging.
In August 2023 Highlight Crafts opened the Highlight Crafts Academy where they threw open the doors of their purpose built academy building to invite members of the public to come and join in the creative fun. With 4 classrooms that can hold up to 10 people each, the Academy was launched to as a place for customers who love to craft to come and learn new techniques, refine their skills, meet other friendly crafters and have fun doing what they love while being taught by some of the best in the business.
The Academy also runs 6 craft festivals a year. These are 10-day events where they run 4 classes per day as taster classes for local people. In between the day courses and festivals the Academy is open every Thursday afternoon for the weekly craft club for anyone wanting to come along and join in for a few hours. This is a great way to bring crafters in the community together who can bring their own projects or use materials provided by the Academy.
For anyone wanting to come and get creative with Highlight Crafts please head to www.highlightcrafts.com to find out more.
New AI technology created by Oasis Studio for the property sector
The EyeSiteView team, based at Chesterfield’s Oasis Studio has launched new AI-powered technology platform aimed at creating an immersive property exploration suite for businesses.
The new technology, named Vantage, will assist property and construction sector organisations in providing a better experience for customers, with a new interactive sales centre solution.
It offers an interactive property exploration solution to partners looking to enhance their customer experience for the modern buyer, and most importantly improve the buyer’s ability to reserve new-build plots off-plan.
Installed into Sales Centres in the form of a Touchscreen or a tablet, Vantage is equipped with the latest 3D interactive property marketing content such as interactive site plans, configurators and virtual tours.
Tony Buck, Associate Director at Oasis Studio commented: “Innovation is very much at the core of everything we do here. We are no strangers to AI, we have been learning and leveraging practices within our workflow for some time.
“For us to now find a valuable use and confidently implement the technology within one of our products is a huge milestone for us and our partners. With the pace of advancements we’ve seen with AI alone in the last year, I would encourage all businesses, especially SME’s to explore the capabilities of AI.
“For us, it has not only enhanced and increased our internal efficiency, but it is now playing a big role in the products and services we can offer our clients.”
Platinum Spas recognised by leading hot tub and swim spa magazines
Superior Wellness, Broombank Park, Chesterfield
Superior Wellness, A Chesterfield-based manufacturer and distributor of hot tub and swim spas has announced that its flagship brand, Platinum Spas, has been approved as a WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? 2024 hot tub and swim spa manufacturer for the sixth year in a row.
Platinum Spas is an innovative hot tub and swim spa brand creating premium quality products focused on improving health and wellbeing. With a focus on innovation and the latest technology, the range boasts premium features to provide the ultimate hot tub and swim spa experience.
WhatSpa? magazine celebrates its 19th anniversary this year and it has helped over 1 million UK homeowners to buy their dream hot tub since its launch in 2005. WhatSwimSpa? magazine followed in the footsteps of its sister publication and has been helping UK swim spa buyers in their vital research since 2013.
Rob Carlin, Superior Wellness Managing Director said “I am delighted that Platinum Spas has been approved as a WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? Approved Manufacturer once again.
“The WhatSpa? magazine and website are a very important tool for the end customer to use when finding their perfect hot tub. It is also great for our partner network to proudly say they are selling an approved and leading hot tub and swim spa brand.”
RA Information Systems shows innovation to enhance customer experience
Richard Fowler, RA Information Systems
The team at RA Information Systems in Chesterfield is reflecting on how it has innovated in recent months to improve the user experience of its software, and also to improve sustainability efforts by helping to raise awareness of trees across various UK communities.
A spokesperson for the company said: “Recently, we’ve added new features for our Clarity Visitor system, empowering our users to streamline their processes even further. In addition to seamlessly handling check-ins, we’ve integrated the system with visitor label and pass printing, enhancing the way our customers manage their visitors. With compatible printers, visit passes and labels can now be generated swiftly and on-demand, enhancing efficiency and convenience.
“Last year we also contributed to some of the UK councils to introduce Community Tree Portals. Developed by our dedicated Ezytreev team, this innovative platform harmonises technology, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. With ezyPortal, we’re not just raising awareness – we’re transforming the way people perceive trees, positioning them as accessible environmental assets for all to appreciate.”
The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Chesterfield’s Vicar Lane Shopping Centre has announced the arrival of greeting cards, gifts and partyware shop Cards Direct, which has now opened its doors to customers.
The store sells a range of affordable greeting cards, gift wrap and stationery. It also offers bespoke balloon bouquets and balloon personalisation, with a click and collect service in store. The new store will be located opposite Waterstones and will be open from 9am-5.30pm Monday – Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sundays.
Cards Direct was established in 2012 and currently has more than 60 stores in high streets and shopping centres in the UK. The business says it prides itself on offering outstanding customer service, quality products and above all, value for money.
The new store follows other recent exciting openings at the centre, including Coffee #1, Street Spirit and Brand Runner. The centre is home to several nationally-recognised retailers including Waterstones, F.Hinds, Superdrug, Holland and Barrett, River Island and New Look.
A wide range of unique independent shops and cafes are also based at Vicar Lane, including Qoozies, Shop Indie, Clarissa’s Interiors, The Little Ark and more.
There are events planned at intervals during the year at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre with accompanying displays or entertainment in St. James’ Square. For more information visit www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk
Shaun Brown, Centre Manager at Vicar Lane said: “We’re thrilled that Card Directs has joined the line-up of stores here at Vicar Lane and we look forward to welcoming others in the near future.”
With its historic market, plenty of fun festivals and events to attend, and mix of independent and national retailers, Chesterfield Town Centre is a great place to enjoy shopping whilst also meeting family and friends for a catch-up. Find out more about visiting Chesterfield here.
Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
A warehouse totaling more than 100,000 sq. ft will soon be occupied by digital and information specialists, Restore Records Management.
Devonshire Property Group, part of the portfolio of Devonshire Group businesses, has successfully let its 102,515 sq ft Markham Vale warehouse following the agreement of a new letting at the development.
Restore Records Management has agreed to take the unit on a long-term lease. The move is part of a consolidation of properties, as it looks to move into newer, more efficient buildings. Restore expects to be operational at the new site later this spring.
Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at Devonshire Property Group said: “Letting our property at Markham Vale is not only a really positive milestone for the scheme, but a testament to the site’s proposition and the quality of space on offer. Alongside Derbyshire County Council and HBD, we’re fully committed to ensuring that the site continues to generate value and quality job opportunities for the surrounding communities. Bringing another strong business in Restore Records Management to the site is part of our work to fulfil that promise.”
Nigel Dews, Managing Director at Restore Records Management said: “The entire facility, will be able to accommodate a staggering 1.4 million boxes, making it one of the biggest sites in our portfolio. We look forward to taking management of the site in the forthcoming weeks.”
The agents representing The Devonshire Group were Rebecca Schofield at Knight Frank and Stuart Waite, of CPP. Restore were represented by Cameron Frazer of Berrys.
Markham Vale, a joint venture partnership between HBD and Derbyshire County Council that began in 2006, has created more than 2,700 jobs across a wide range of sectors, including advanced manufacturing and logistics.
It is home to a range of businesses, including Bilstein Group, which manufactures and distributes automotive parts, Granger International, manufacturers of waterproof outdoor products and shoe care products, and Sterigenics, makers of sterile healthcare products.
Devonshire Group supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Chesterfield Football Club’s loyal supporters are being invited to attend an official celebration event to mark the club’s return to the English Football League.
After the club claimed the Vanarama National League title on Saturday 23 March, Chesterfield Borough Council – working in partnership with the club – is pleased to confirm that the event will take place on Sunday 21 April.
Celebrations will get underway at the SMH Group Stadium at 2.30pm with the club’s players, coaching and backroom staff boarding open top buses to travel to the Town Hall.
The buses will travel along Sheffield Road, around Holywell Cross (the Donut), and then on to Saltergate and Rose Hill East, arriving at the Town Hall at 3pm.
Supporters are invited to join in the celebrations outside the Town Hall in a dedicated traffic free fan zone, where they will be able to see the trophy once again lifted on the balcony and bring a truly memorable season to a close.
The team will appear on the balcony at approximately 3.30pm, but fans are invited to arrive at the fan zone from 1.30pm and kickstart the celebrations from approximately 2pm.
After their balcony appearance, the club will attend a civic reception at the Town Hall.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Brough Council, said: “Our congratulations to Chesterfield Football Club on their promotion back into the English Football League. It is great for the Club and for their loyal band of supporters but also great for the town and the borough. A successful football club brings new visitors to the town and is a vital part of Chesterfield’s economy.
“The council and club both recognise the value of putting Chesterfield’s communities at the heart of everything we do. It’s therefore important that we come together and celebrate the club’s success with our communities.
“We are looking forward to welcoming the club and especially Paul Cook, his coaching and the players to the Town Hall. We hope to see plenty of supporters coming along and joining in with the celebrations too. It should be another brilliant occasion for the club and the town.”
Chesterfield Football Club’s Chief Executive, John Croot, said: ‘We would like to thank Chesterfield Borough Council for honouring us in recognition of our achievements this season.
“We are proud of our standing in the community and it will be fantastic to provide our supporters with another opportunity to celebrate our return to the Football League.”
Some roads will be closed on the day to allow the buses to pass through and spectators to attend safely. Details of the road closures will be shared on the council’s website.
Those attending the event are advised that alcohol is not permitted in the fan zone.
Superior Wellness, A Chesterfield-based manufacturer and distributor of hot tub and swim spas has announced that its flagship brand, Platinum Spas, has been approved as a WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? 2024 hot tub and swim spa manufacturer for the sixth year in a row.
Platinum Spas is an innovative hot tub and swim spa brand creating premium quality products focused on improving health and wellbeing. With a focus on innovation and the latest technology, the range boasts premium features to provide the ultimate hot tub and swim spa experience.
WhatSpa? magazine celebrates its 19th anniversary this year and it has helped over 1 million UK homeowners to buy their dream hot tub since its launch in 2005. WhatSwimSpa? magazine followed in the footsteps of its sister publication and has been helping UK swim spa buyers in their vital research since 2013.
Rob Carlin, Superior Wellness Managing Director said “I am delighted that Platinum Spas has been approved as a WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? Approved Manufacturer once again.
“The WhatSpa? magazine and website are a very important tool for the end customer to use when finding their perfect hot tub. It is also great for our partner network to proudly say they are selling an approved and leading hot tub and swim spa brand.”
Nick Clamp, WhatSpa? Media Group’s Editor-in-Chief added: “It’s been a pleasure to see Superior Wellness grow to become such a worldwide success in the hot tub, swim spa and wellness sectors, especially since they are headquartered right here in the UK.”
“It’s rare to see a brand scale to the levels that Rob and the team have achieved in the last 13 years, and we look forward to seeing more innovative new products from the Superior Wellness team over the next decade.”
Both WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? magazines unveil their Best Buy Awards every year which feature the very best hot tubs and swim spas from the World’s leading brands. The awards acknowledge the hot tub and swim spa models that excel across a range of criteria, including design, aesthetics, comfort, hydrotherapy and value-for-money.
Superior Wellness supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Two steam train tours are set to arrive in Chesterfield, bringing passengers from the south of England to discover our historic landmarks.
The Steam Dreams Rail. Co, provider of unique and magical steam train journeys, will be hosting two incredible day trips to Chesterfield, one from East Anglia to Chatsworth, Crich & Barrow Hill on 8th May and another from London to Chatsworth, Crich & Barrow Hill Rail Ale Festival on 16th May.
The journeys will be pulled by the historic 46100 Royal Scot, providing visitors to immerse themselves in the glamour of yesteryear with an elegant steam-hauled journey. Once passengers arrive in Chesterfield, they will then be able to take part in several excursions around North Derbyshire’s landmarks.
Passengers are able to travel in one of three classes, including Pullman Dining, First Cass or Premium Standard.
A spokesperson for The Steam Dreams Rail. Co explained that there is plenty of exciting activities to get involved in whilst on the tour: “You can sink into your seats and relax as the train sets out for a wonderful journey through Amber Valley to the Peak District.
“Here, you have the option to continue your journey back in time to the Crich Tramway Museum, an immersive museum experience set within a recreated period village, where you can enjoy a ride on board the vintage trams. For glamour-seekers, your indulgent journey can be extended to the elegance of Chatsworth House. Alternatively, visit the town of Chesterfield or continue to Barrow Hill before we embark on our return journey aboard the same beautifully restored vintage carriages in which we started our journey.”
Chatsworth House
Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield commented: “We’re excited to welcome passengers from the Steam Dreams Rail Co. tours to our historic town and surrounding areas.
“Being the place where George Stephenson spent the final years of his life, Chesterfield has always had a strong connection with steam.
“It will be wonderful to see the iconic 46100 Royal Scot arriving here, and I hope that passengers enjoy seeing our unique Crooked Spire, the beauty of Chatsworth and the Peak District, and of course the wonderful locomotives at Barrow Hill Roundhouse.”
Barrow Hill Roundhouse, Chesterfield
For further information and to book call 01483 209888 or visit www.steamdreams.co.uk
Chesterfield’s MTM Products has been shortlisted for a prestigious regional award, following several sustainability successes at the company.
The business is one of the UK’s leading industrial graphics suppliers, and recently announced it had reduced its operational carbon footprint by 34 tonnes of CO2e – or 37 per cent – by cutting its consumption of gas, grid electricity and water. MTM has also revealed a bold set of annual targets to further cut its carbon emissions before 2030.
Now, the business has been recognised in the shortlist for the Sustainable / Ethical Manufacturer Award at the 2024 Insider Made in the Midlands Awards. Now in their 14th year, the awards are one of the region’s premier events, attracting entries from more than 70 companies and culminating in a black-tie ceremony in Birmingham. The winners will go on to represent the Midlands, and their sectors, at the national Made in the UK Awards.
Managing Director Mark Niblett explained why these initiatives were so important: “Exploring the switch to 100 per cent renewable electricity and looking at sustainable vehicle options is not just about meeting environmental regulations, it’s about leading by example and inspiring change within our industry.
Mark believes this approach will help attract talent into the business: “Candidates are increasingly seeking employers who think and act sustainably. At MTM, we understand that sustainability isn’t just about ethics. It’s a necessity for attracting and retaining the best people.”
The work MTM is doing also involves challenging partners on their approaches to sustainability, as well as continuously assessing internal processes.
“We hope that by us demonstrating what we’re doing, we’re sharing best practices for the wider industry, in the hopes we can all begin to make a positive change,” Mark said.
Based in Chesterfield, MTM has been supplying original equipment manufacturers in the automotive, electrical and electronic, rail, medical, construction and machinery equipment sectors in the UK and across the EU for almost 50 years.
MTM Products supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
A panel of Chesterfield business leaders has highlighted the ongoing collaboration and togetherness of the town’s organisations as a major contributor to our local economy.
Speaking to Destination Chesterfield and the Derbyshire Times at the Celebrate Local Round Table event, members of the town’s community of Chesterfield Champions spoke about how they see fellow businesses in the town as partners and colleagues, rather than rivals.
Businesses agreed that collaboration among local businesses in Chesterfield is a necessity for driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity. By building a vibrant community, enhancing knowledge and resilience, nurturing talent, and attracting investment, collaborative efforts lay the foundation for a thriving economy that benefits everyone in the town.
Drawing on her experience of owning a business in Chesterfield, Mel Archbould, of Cloud-Busting, a business dedicated to helping small and medium-sized businesses scale up and grow, commented:
“People just get on. It’s not ego-driven and people just get on with their business and build up those networks. It’s about creating an ecosystem and making sure it evolves and moves. We are all doing different things, but that symbiotic relationship is vital, in terms of how we feed off each other and work together. Collaboration between different industries, such as the public sector, private sector, education, healthcare, and voluntary organisations feed into giving our town its identity. We all need each other.”
Crucially, collaboration enables local businesses to tap into new markets and opportunities. By forming strategic partnerships and alliances, firms in our town can amplify their reach and visibility, helping to raise further regional and national awareness of Chesterfield’s offer to businesses, visitors and people searching for jobs and homes.
The round table discussion heard how companies in the town’s legal and financial sectors often refer clients to each other, in order to ensure local people and businesses are given the best specialist advice and care possible.
Ryan Wilkes, Senior Manager of Owner Managed Business, Shorts Chartered Accountants said: “We refer to lots of other places too. For any CVs that are not quite suited to us, we refer to smaller businesses in the town. We also do a lot of work with local solicitors, and we also do a lot of work alongside Mitchells Chartered Accountants who people on the outside would see as a competitor. When I look at the accounts of clients, you’d be surprised to see how many businesses in our town are linked. Everybody knows everybody.”
Moreover, collaborative efforts can enhance the overall attractiveness of Chesterfield as a destination for investment and entrepreneurship. This, in turn, can attract new businesses, spur job creation, and stimulate economic activity. In 2023, statistics showed that there were 580 more businesses operating in Chesterfield compared to figures measured 10 years previously. In addition, Chesterfield Borough Council’s growth strategy sets out ambitions to increase the number of businesses by another 12% by 2030, equating to another 400 businesses.
Paul Chapman, owner and editor of S40 Local Magazine, commented: I get to see lots of different businesses, ranging from small to large, and I have been blown away by the businesses I’ve found. I’m fortunate to have met some fantastic people who put their life and soul into what they’re doing. Love goes into what they do. We know that it has been hard times for many, but we all keep going. Through the magazine, it is my job to be positive, and as local business owners, we should try to lead by example by spending our money locally with an independent business.
“I bought my bike from a business in Sheepbridge. Our milkman gets his milk from fields in Tideswell. I regularly visit the local butcher, market stalls, and other local shops. For my wife’s 50th birthday party, everything was sourced within a couple of miles of Chesterfield. I think it is so important to think about where we get our products and services from.”
Furthermore, collaboration fosters resilience in the face of recent economic challenges being faced by businesses across the UK. Whether it’s navigating rising costs, adapting to new ways of working brought about by advances in technology, or helping to protect fellow businesses from falling victim to crime, a community of organisations that stands united is better equipped to handle any arising issues, making them more resilient.
Laura Jo Owen, Owner of Adorn Jewellers, based in The Shambles in Chesterfield Town Centre, added: “As independent businesses in the town, we have a WhatsApp group which is a good way to keep in touch and support each other. It could be for a product launch, or if someone is looking for staff, we can send them some CVs across. If you are a one-person business, it can be quite lonely, so it is good to keep in touch. We find the community very supportive from a small business point of view.
“Also from a crime prevention standpoint, town centre businesses are working well together to create that community and make them aware of any potential threats or issues. Shopping locally with independent businesses helps to build our community as well as our economy. It means that more people looking out for each other and keeping in touch with them, which is a positive thing all round.”
In a landscape where independent organisations must find new ways to compete with global conglomerates, fostering a strong network of local enterprises becomes a major strategic advantage for Chesterfield businesses. By supporting one another, sharing best practices, and collectively advocating for common interests, our small businesses aim to continue working together, to fortify Chesterfield’s economic prosperity.
Anne Batty, Managing Director of Paperclip, a telephone answering service provider based in Dronfield commented: “It feels natural to refer people and pass on information. For example, if you have had a good experience with an SEO provider, it is just natural to want to provide them with more business. If everybody is using local businesses, hopefully, those connections will only get stronger. When I started my business, it was important to have good people around you who knew where to go and what to look for. I’m sure I speak for all of us around the table when I say that I would be willing to help a new business with the knowledge that I’ve gained to be able to support them.”
If you own a business locally, find out more about becoming part of our network of Chesterfield Champions, and join a community of organisations committed to raising the profile of the town.
The annual Chesterfield Festival of Cycling is set to take place in the town this June.
Cycle Chesterfield, a local community group dedicated to promoting cycling in Chesterfield is gearing up for the event. It aims to showcase the cycle infrastructure in and around town, promote cycling as an alternative means of transport and build links across our communities.
This year’s festival runs from the 7th – 16th of June and offers a diverse range of activities designed to cater to people of all abilities and ages. From guided rides at a steady, inclusive pace exploring the town’s hidden gems to interesting talks by cycle adventurers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the festival’s highlights is the Holmebrook Valley Park Cycle Funday, where families can enjoy a day of outdoor activities and games. This event not only fosters a sense of community but also encourages residents to embrace cycling as a fun and accessible recreational activity.
There will be a variety of themed, free, guided recreational rides which will demonstrate some of the cycling infrastructure in Chesterfield and the wider area, including the brand-new section of the East/West route. Rides will generally start in the town centre and will head out in a range of directions, including rides taking in Grassmoor, Holymoorside and Hollingwood. The rides will proceed at a steady, inclusive pace.
In addition to rides, the festival will be hosting a talk by author, adventurer and cyclist Emily Chappell. Emily was the first woman to finish the Transcontinental Race in 2016, has cycled across Asia from Turkey to China and has authored two books about her exploits.
Moreover, the festival serves as a platform to showcase Chesterfield’s cycling culture. From taster sessions for adapted bikes for disabled adults to BMXers showcasing their skills at Ringwood Park to an exploration of some of the town’s public art on the Art Trail ride, the festival celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the local cycling community.
Cycle Chesterfield has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at improving cycling infrastructure and awareness in the area. Through lobbying efforts and community outreach programs, the group continues to push for safer streets and better cycling amenities, not only improving the quality of life for residents but also contributing to a greener, more resilient future for our community.
You can find out more about the festival and cycle chesterfield online: Facebook – CycleFestChesterfield & CycleChesterfield or via the website – https://cyclechesterfield.org/
Independent soft drinks and mixers brand, Franklin & Sons, part of Chesterfield-based Global Brands is launching a new-to-market product format.
The product will be launched across all UK Red Engine sites, the team behind Flight Club and Electric Shuffle.
Franklin & Sons has been working on producing a 200ml can for its Premium Indian & Premium Light Tonic in a bid to support the company with its sustainability goals, and has found perfect launch partner in Red Engine.
Flight Club and Electric Shuffle are two competitive socialising venues that have risen rapidly in popularity over the last few years, modernising traditional games such as darts and shuffleboard to reinvent the bar experience for the 21st century.
The aluminium cans weigh 94% less than the 200ml glass bottles, leading to a reduction in weight per case, significantly reducing transportation costs, fuel consumption and packaging volume, leading to a much lower carbon contribution.
Crucially for a hospitality venue, this initiative will also minimise waste and is projected to create a substantial 42% reduction in wastage removal expenses for Red Engine.
Dustin Acton, Chief Operating Officer at Red Engine, emphasised the strategic significance of the partnership, commenting: “We have worked with the team at Franklin & Sons for a couple of years now and we’re impressed with how much they value our partnership, going above and beyond to meet our business needs.
“Franklin & Sons is fully aligned with our morals and values and consistently looks for ways to add value to our business, showing true commitment to nurturing a collaborative relationship.”
James Stimson, Senior Brand Manager at Franklin & Sons added: “At Franklin & Sons, we are constantly innovating, and pride ourselves on demonstrating agility when it comes to meeting our customers’ needs.
“We’re pleased to be extending our partnership with an institution such as Red Engine, and that we have been able to provide a solution for such a valued customer. Aluminium cans are infinitely recyclable, using 95% less energy than producing new packaging, and creating 65% less CO2e during the recycling process than their glass counterparts.
“We look forward to seeing the benefits this will bring to the business and are excited to be alongside them in their sustainability journey.”
Global Brands supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Preference cookies are used to store user preferences to provide content that is customized and convenient for the users, like the language of the website or the location of the visitor.
