Development

Chesterfield packaging specialist Robinson Acquires Danish Business

Robinson – the Chesterfield-based manufacturer specialising in value added custom packaging – has acquired the Danish company Schela Plast.

This major investment is part of the company’s dynamic development strategy allowing Robinson to continue to build on its bespoke, customised model and align with its multi-national customers on the back of three years of successful growth.

Offering a complete packaging solution, from cap to bottle, the acquisition of Schela Plast adds geographical reach into Northern Europe further strengthening Robinson’s existing position in the UK and Eastern Europe.

Schela Plast, located near Billund in Denmark, currently employs over 40 people, serving both local and international markets in similar sectors to Robinson. Schela Plast is aligned in the market sectors that we serve and similarly has seen an increase in demand for personal care and household product packaging due to the Covid pandemic.

Established in 1971 Schela Plast offers extrusion blow moulded (EBM) packaging and in 2020 produced more than 50 million products. The company boasts both tool making and product design capability and a very broad range of bottle and container sizes.

With high usage of recycled content and renewable materials, its sustainable portfolio marries up perfectly with Robinson’s. The additional technical and design capabilities will help continue to meet the growing needs of Robinson’s customers, while increasing capacity and delivering mutual benefit for Robinson and its customers.

Robinson will continue to invest in new machinery in both the UK and Poland to ensure they remain agile and flexible in decision making and speed of execution as they support key customers locally.

CEO Dr Helene Roberts says the acquisition is an exciting evolution in the Robinson journey. She says: “This is the ideal progression for us, only made possible because both companies are aligned in purpose, core values, and relevance for our customer base.

“This transition is not only driven by efficiencies but more importantly, with planned expansion in our existing customer base, will create jobs in support of Robinson being a future-fit organisation. We always go above and beyond to create a sustainable future for our people and our planet and this acquisition adds value on so many levels”.

Robinson’s strategy to grow revenues profitably ahead of the market is supplemented with this complementary investment, enabling the business to gain scale with continued focus on serving customers in the food, homecare, and personal care markets. Both Robinson and Schela Plast are successful businesses in their own right and will learn from each other, sharing best practice across all sites.

Morten Jeppesen, Managing Director of the Schela Plast business in Denmark, says: “We are thrilled to become a part of the Robinson family, a company that holds the same ambitions and values as ourselves, prioritising its customers and its people. We are complementary organisations, with agility, confidence, and the highest customer service. Like us they are deeply committed to sustainable development and offer a unique packaging experience for a wide range of customers”.

The partnership means a more localised EBM offering for our northern European customers – key to sustainability, which is at the heart of Robinson’s business strategy. Many companies in Europe and the UK are returning to regionalised production in the pandemic and as transport is a significant contributor to carbon credentials in the supply chain, the location of Schela Plast is a valuable addition to Robinson’s sustainability strategy.

Robinson supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Robinson CEO, Dr Helene Roberts

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Work progresses on Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Work on high-quality office accommodation which will support new and growing businesses in the town is on track to be complete by the summer – despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre is now weatherproof – meaning another key milestone has been reached in the project programme.

Councillor Dean Collins, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for economic development, said: “It is fantastic to see this building progressing with such pace. Our contractor – Robert Woodhead has worked incredibly hard and overcome many challenges to make sure they can deliver this project without delay in a Covid-secure environment.

“I’m confident that this enterprise centre will provide the space and support for businesses to express their entrepreneurial spirit and start or grow local businesses in the borough. This will help ensure that we a creating a thriving borough with lots of opportunities for young people to develop excellent careers in our town.”

In January glazing was added to the building, which is of a high standard for maximum thermal efficiency. The first fix for mechanical and electrical engineering has begun and work is set to begin on the brickwork and cladding very soon.

Dan Cove, Project Manager from Robert Woodhead Limited said “Works are progressing really well despite a few challenging days with the snow and ice. The team on site are working to enhanced covid secure measures too so that has added to the operational complexities of the scheme. It’s taking shape and you can see what a great addition this will be for Chesterfield.”

Work dividing the interior and installing a lift has begun.

Andy Dabbs, Board Director at Whittam Cox Architects, said: “As a local practice we are delighted to see progress still being made on site despite the pandemic.

“The Enterprise Centre is such an important part of the Northern Gateway regeneration in Chesterfield, providing a new and unique commercial offer which is designed to be a catalyst for further investment and development. As well as providing high quality facilities for businesses wanting to locate in the town centre, the architecture will provide a new contemporary landmark which will enrich the urban fabric of the town.”

Contractors Robert Woodhead have also achieved an ‘excellent’ mark in the initial Considerate Constructor Scheme assessment, which aims to raise standards in the construction industry. The building also remains on target to achieve an ‘excellent’ rating for its environmental sustainability.

Find out more about office facilities at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre here.

Whittam Cox Architects and Robert Woodhead Ltd. support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

£500,000 support boost for Derbyshire manufacturers

Small to medium-sized manufacturers in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire have received a £500,000 support boost to help them overcome challenges and make the most of new opportunities.

The Manufacturing Growth Programme (MGP), which has already supported over 600 companies in other areas of the East Midlands, has agreed a deal with D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership to provide specialist assistance to firms in the two counties.

Manufacturing firms can now access a dedicated Manufacturing Growth Manager, who will use the GROWTHMapper benchmarking tool to identify pain points within the business, before delivering grants that can help support a third of the total cost of the business improvement project up to a maximum £10,000.

This new support covers manufacturing efficiencies, strategic marketing, new product development and leadership and management, with the programme due to help more than 85 business between now and June 2023.

It is anticipated that this manufacturing driven assistance will create 111 new jobs and 28 new product launches.

Martin Coats, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Growth Programme, commented: “This is excellent news for SME manufacturers in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and comes at a time when they will need access to industry specialists to overcome issues around Brexit and Covid-19.

“We have proven how successful this type of support, delivered by experts from the manufacturing sector, can be in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire. Across these three areas we have created nearly 700 new jobs and completed 805 improvement projects, helping many firms fulfil their potential.”

He continued: “Thanks to the backing of the D2N2 LEP, we can now give this targeted assistance to companies locally, making sure they are competitive in the sectors they have an undeniable edge in, including aerospace, automotive, food and drink, medical and rail.

“Each project is tailored to the individual company, so it has the biggest impact. Our Manufacturing Growth Managers are also very well connected and can link in management teams to other business support, funding or even supply chain opportunities.”

Mickleover-based Devtank is one of the companies that has welcomed the support boost, citing the need for manufacturers to have tailored assistance that will allow them to scale-up.

The open source test and measurement business currently supplies clients in defence, green energy, space and telecoms and has developed a range of products that help businesses automate their production testing and smart monitoring solutions.

“We are scaling rapidly and just about to launch a dedicated product page/e-commerce shop on our website, not to mention looking at ways where we can maximise our recent approval as a design partner for the Raspberry Pi Foundation,” pointed out Tim Telford, Chief Technical Officer at Devtank.

“The Manufacturing Growth Programme coming to this region means the right support will be available for us at the right time and I’m sure it will be beneficial to many other local businesses at this time of real need during the covid-19 recovery phase.

“Having access to dedicated manufacturing support is essential in helping us thrive. The last few years has seen us develop a number of new products and we have reinvested every last penny and more into the business. Being able to secure grants and specialist external assistant to capitalise on this investment is great news and will enable us to take the next step.”

Frank Horsley, Head of Business & Innovation at D2N2 LEP, concluded: “We are delighted to support the extension of the highly successful programme into our region.

“Manufacturing remains the historic bedrock of the D2N2 economy. If we are to transform into a more competitive, but greener economy, our manufacturers will need support to embrace the challenges of industrial digitalisation and net zero so that, similar to the first industrial revolution, we can lead the world.

“We look forward to bringing our strategic influence and partnership network to bear to ensure our businesses have the opportunity to benefit from the excellent support MGP can deliver.”

The Manufacturing Growth Programme, which is funded by ERDF and delivered by Oxford Innovation Services, is open to all manufacturing SMEs in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire that employ less than 250 people or have a turnover below £36m.

To apply for grant funding, please use the online eligibility checker.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Conference hears how digital upskilling and a human-first approach is key to developing resilient post pandemic future workforce

With demand for digital skills increasing by 36% in the last 12 months, digital upskilling in schools, colleges and businesses will be key to Chesterfield thriving post pandemic. That was the message from leaders at this year’s Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference.

At the virtual, live-streamed conference, it was revealed that the pandemic has brought digital skills to the forefront of work and education and opened up a number of exciting new employment opportunities in the low carbon economy.

Leaders speaking at the fifth annual conference stressed that collaboration between education providers and businesses is key to young people taking advantage of these opportunities post 16 and thriving in the workforce post pandemic.

Speaking at the conference Rachel Quinn, Head of People and Skills at D2N2 LEP said: “Covid has given us the impetus to push forward to use and develop technology to connect people and work better. However, we have to make sure that everyone can participate and make sure the connectivity exists and that everyone has the digital access and skills they need to succeed and thrive. Getting that connectivity right, for the economy and through into our education system is absolutely essential.”

Chesterfield College reported growth in the demand for digital skills in the area and has invested in a digital skills centre. James Lund, Interim Director of Sales at The Chesterfield College Group said: “Apprentice recruitment is starting to return to pre-Covid levels, and we anticipate digital skills being a growth area over the next two to three years. Similarly, we have also seen a growth in demand for apprenticeships in health and social care and construction.”

To ensure young people maximise the opportunities, headline speaker, author and former headteacher, Richard Gerver urged the conference to “look to our inner child in order to succeed and thrive in a post pandemic workforce.”

He said: “By changing our mindset and encouraging people to meet change and uncertainty with curiosity, awe, wonder and questioning rather than fear, young people will see the opportunities rather than obstacles.”

He warned of the long-term impact of change and uncertainty on the self-esteem of young people and urged people to remember the importance of softer skills alongside technical skills.

Mr Gerver added: “Covid has been the most horrific experience in most people’s lived experience but it won’t be the first or last time we have to cope with profound levels of change in our personal lives. All too often our reflex when dealing with a problem is to go direct to the technical or strategic solution, but we need to understand the human first and
that has never been more true than it is now, particularly when thinking about our future workforce.

“Dialogue between educators and businesses is more important than ever to support young people with career development. Real partnership is the key to success.”

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield reassured the conference that the council is committed to partnership working in order to ensure the future workforce have the post pandemic skills required by local employers.
She explained: “We’re not standing still in Chesterfield. We and our partners recognise that with change comes innovation and with challenge comes resilience. Building resilience and raising the aspirations of future generations is a priority for Chesterfield.

“Our aim is to continue to strengthen links between education providers and local businesses to ensure that our school and college leavers have the skills to access career opportunities available in the borough.”

The annual, free Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference is organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, D2N2 North Derbyshire Careers Hub, and Destination Chesterfield, and is open to businesses, schools and education providers from across North Derbyshire.

Chesterfield businesses that wish to work with the Careers Hub, provide work experience or workplace visit opportunities, recruit apprentices or upskill existing employees, are encouraged to get in touch with Emily Williams, Skills Delivery Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council by emailing Emily.Williams@Chesterfield.gov.uk or calling 01246 959717.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Borough Council looks to secure the future of The Pavements Shopping Centre

At an Extraordinary meeting of Chesterfield Borough Council on Wednesday 10 February 2021, councillors voted in favour of acquiring the leasehold of The Pavements Shopping Centre in Chesterfield.

The decision is subject to further due diligence and agreement of terms.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The Pavements Shopping Centre plays a pivotal role in welcoming shoppers and visitors to Chesterfield town centre.

“Assuming we are successful in acquiring the leasehold, the council will be able to control the future direction of the shopping centre; shape the Southern Gateway to Chesterfield town centre; and build on the council’s many other ambitious plans for the town centre.”

Chesterfield Borough Council currently owns the land (the freehold) on which the shopping centre is built but the leasehold is held by a successor company to the CIN Pension Fund which originally built The Pavements back in the early 1980’s. The council then manages and operates the shopping centre through an under-lease arrangement between the leaseholder and the council.

The council has taken specialist advice from property investment advisors, who concluded it is financially prudent for the council to try and acquire the leasehold at this time.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of the Council, continued: “Through this action, the council is seeking to secure the future of The Pavements Shopping Centre as a high-profile strategic town centre asset whilst at the same time protecting the council’s financial position.

“Negotiations between the council and the leaseholder have commenced, and we would hope that the terms of the acquisition can be finalised by the end of March 2021.”

You can find out more about the Pavements Shopping Centre here.

Businesses in Chesterfield are continuing to trade via click and collect or delivery services during the current national lockdown, while essential retailers remain open as usual. You can find out more on our Shopping During Lockdown page.

Pavements Shopping Centre

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Markham Vale celebrates another successful year, with just 13-acres remaining

Henry Boot Developments and Derbyshire County Council have hailed another successful year for Markham Vale, which saw the scheme secure a £25 million deal and welcome a host of new businesses.

Markham Vale is a joint venture between developer HBD and Derbyshire County Council. Located at Junction 29A of the M1 and spanning 200-acres, it is one of the region’s most successful schemes.

A planning application submission for Chester’s second restaurant concluded a strong twelve months which also saw the signing of a £25m deal with Aver for two units of 221, 518 sq. ft. and 75,500 sq. ft., both due to complete in the coming months. The units will complete the north section of the scheme.

13-acres remain across Markham Vale East and West, capable of accommodating a further 220,000 sq. ft.

2020 also saw the arrival of a series of new occupiers, including Blue Whale Spa, Transcare, which moved into a new 12,500 sq. ft. building and Xbite, which relocated to Markham Vale and more than doubled its warehouse operation.

Simon Ross, Development Surveyor at HBD, said: “Markham Vale has had another successful year and we look forward to welcoming more businesses in 2021 – it’s a very well located scheme and the bespoke build options appeal to companies of all sizes and in a range of sectors. Of 200-acres when construction began, we now have just 13-acres remaining, including the ready-to-let MV55 providing 55,000 sq. ft. of prime warehouse space.”

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King, said: “Despite the obvious challenges brought about by the pandemic, we continue to support businesses at Markham to survive and thrive and the site continues to attract new businesses looking to relocate to Derbyshire signaling confidence in the local economy.”

Henry Boot Developments supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , ,

Derbyshire Education Business Partnership shortlisted for national award

Derbyshire Education Business Partnership (DEBP) been shortlisted for the Best Practice Award – Careers Programme in a Special School or College category in the UK Career Development Awards. The Awards from the Career Development Institute raise awareness and celebrate the tremendous success of those in the career development profession.

The submission was for Project SEARCH, a unique one year supported training and employment internship opportunity. It helps young people – from across Derbyshire with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and autism spectrum conditions – make successful transitions from school to productive adult life and gain the skills they need to achieve meaningful paid jobs.

Before interns start the programme they take part in lots of preparation work to identify their strengths, aspirations and the occupations they are interested in. They have the opportunity to gain new skills, as well as practical work-based experience through a structured personalised careers programme. They are supported throughout by an employer mentor, tutor and job coach.

Clare Talati, Managing Director said, “It is great for us to be shortlisted for this award and help raise awareness of this unique programme and the benefits of creating inclusive work environments. We would like to thank all the partners involved for their dedication and commitment.”

Disabled young adults are significantly underrepresented in the nation’s workforce and are far less likely to secure employment than the general population. Only 3.5 per cent of young adults with a learning disability known to their local authority in Derby are in paid work (around 6% nationally). There are 69 Project SEARCH schemes internationally and 60 per cent of the young adults involved have secured employment.

Sarah Cutler, Project SEARCH Job Coach said: “We want to ensure that all learners, irrespective of their needs, achieve. This programme challenges stereotypes and perceptions and allows employers to see what the young people can contribute and offer. And it allows the young people to realise their potential to contribute to the workplace and be exceptional employees.”

DEBP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Work to start on improving Hollis Lane Subway in Chesterfield

Work to improve the stairs and ramp at the Spa Lane end of the Hollis Lane subway in Chesterfield is due to start on Tuesday 9 February 2021.

The subway enables pedestrians to walk under the A61 to get from Spa Lane to Dixons Road/ Hollis Lane in the town, but the stairs and ramp at the Spa Lane end now need replacing.

Derbyshire County Council has confirmed a new ramp and steps will be made from anti-slip surfacing and will have cycle height parapets and landings to make them easier to use for people with mobility difficulties.

The ramp will be closed from Tuesday 9 February 2021 for around 2 months with the stairs being able to be used when safe to do so. The stairs won’t be able to be used during the first few days of the work.

Because the alternative route is long the council is to provide a taxi service to take ramp users (those with mobility difficulties or buggies) and pedestrians when the stairs are closed, from The Bridge Inn Car Park to Hollis Lane Car Park (one side of the A61 to the other). The taxi service will only take people from these two locations and will be provided by Naylors Cars for the first few days as a trial to help determine demand.

The taxi service will be available from 7am to 5.30pm each day of the week, with one taxi moving from side to side to pick up those who need the service. The taxi is fully wheelchair accessible. There will be no charge for the service. A ring-and-ride service will be available from 5.30pm to midnight by contacting Naylors on 01246 556677.

After the first week the taxi service will be reviewed with any changes notified.

You can find out more about visiting Chesterfield and North Derbyshire here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Posted in Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , ,

Peak Edge Hotel opens new ‘orangery’

The Peak Edge Hotel, a family owned 4-star, modern boutique hotel nestled on the edge of Derbyshire’s Peak District National Park is set to open its new orangery extension in Spring 2021.

Renowned as one of the region’s leading wedding venues, The Peak Edge Hotel will be able to accommodate larger weddings, as well as providing more flexibility for all events. It enjoys its own dedicated bar area and boasts breath taking views over the hotel lake and Peak District National Park.

Combining historic style with modern facilities, including air conditioning, acoustically lined walls and disabled access, this purpose-built space can accommodate up to 200 guests for weddings, events, and celebrations.

Steve Perez, owner and chairman of Casa Hotel, The Peak Edge Hotel and Global Brands said: “Despite the global pandemic the government’s restrictions causing devastating effects on this industry and people’s livelihoods, we continue to strive and invest in The Peak Edge Hotel.

“We believe it is important to continuously improve our property to ensure we continue to offer the best venue, and award-winning experience.

“We cannot wait to welcome brides, grooms, guests, diners and residents back to The Peak Edge Hotel in the very near future.”

Boasting floor to ceiling windows, contrasting with stunning oak beams giving a wide view over the hotel’s lawns, the Orangery is especially opulent with leather upholstery, oak beam bar and open fireplace enhancing the period features and superb light quality of the room.

The popular luxury boutique hotel offers 27 bedrooms, and all boast stunning views over the Derbyshire Countryside, yet you are only a few miles from all major road networks. Historic Haddon Hall, Chatsworth House, the market towns of Chesterfield, Bakewell & Matlock are all on the hotel’s doorstep.

The Peak Edge Hotel supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

University offers free funded consultancy to local businesses

The University of Derby is offering businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire funded consultancy free of charge as part of its commitment to helping the region thrive.

The consultancy service will give companies the opportunity to work alongside the university’s research and technical team to bring innovative new solutions to their organisation.

The project can relate to any area of business and support will be tailored toward the individual needs of each organisation. This could include getting a different perspective on a new idea for your organisation, or if your company is faced with a business problem that you would like support with.

Some of the areas which the University has already developed solutions for include:

  • Business processes and efficiencies
  • New product development
  • Identifying future opportunities
  • Marketing and market insight.

The University of Derby offers a wealth of expertise in a range of industries, from science and engineering to the arts and professional business services. The academic team are at the forefront of the latest industry developments, offering the highest standard of insight and research.

By taking part in the scheme, organisations will receive up to 40 hours of consultancy, and £500 towards any consumables that may be required.

Cara Roberts, Business Advisor at the University of Derby said: “We invite any Chesterfield business interested in exploring the opportunity to access our funded consultancy to contact us today, we look forward to reviewing how this could deliver real benefits to their organisation by addressing challenges or supporting innovation.”

If you would like to find out more about the University’s business consultancy services, or discuss working in partnership with them, Contact the Business Enquiry team on 0800 001 5500 or businessgateway@derby.ac.uk 

The University of Derby supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

University of Derby St. Helena campus, Chesterfield

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

New council homes ready to welcome local families

Local families are set to benefit from new council homes which have been built in Brimington – part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s ongoing work to provide more affordable and accessible housing.

The four new-build properties on Manor Drive – which are the first council homes to be built in Brimington South in over 30 years – are now ready to be let to local families.

The development includes three two-bedroom houses and a three-bedroom bungalow with wheelchair access.

Built by local contractor, Robert Woodhead Ltd, each property features a fully fitted kitchen and bathroom and is decorated throughout. The gardens are also fully turfed with a small patio area to the back.

In response to the climate emergency that was declared by council leaders last July, the council is also committed to ensuring that its existing housing stock is as energy efficient as possible. Each of the new properties on Manor Drive has increased levels of insulation throughout and has electric vehicle charging points installed.

Councillor Chris Ludlow, cabinet member for housing, said: “We’re committed to meeting the housing needs of local people – now and in the future – and these new properties will provide affordable, modern and accessible homes for families in our borough.

“It is important that people looking for a new home have a choice of good quality homes to rent. Our ambition is to create an additional 100 new homes across town by 2023 and with the completion of these properties, along with other ongoing projects, we’re well on track to reach this target.

“It’s also really important that new developments in the borough take account of environmental issues – contributing to a more sustainable future for us all.

“Our new homes are energy efficient, affordable to run and also feature charging points for electric vehicles to make it easier for people to make the switch to greener transport.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

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