Manufacturing

New minibus and office space provide more opportunities to support young people

Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) has recently taken delivery of a minibus to further expand its programme offer to schools.

The minibus has been kindly sponsored by MSE Hiller, a Chesterfield-based company that supplies, rents and services centrifuges and environmental engineering products to the water and industrial effluent treatment sectors.

MSE Hiller supports many of DEBP’s programmes, including Made in Chesterfield, where they offer workplace tours to give students the chance to learn about and see what it is like working in science, technology, engineering, manufacturing and construction industries and careers.

Laura Duck, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said, “We offer a range of careers and employability programmes to support young people, but this mainly takes place in school or with a host organisation. Over the last academic year we have been welcoming students to our new learning space in Chesterfield. Whilst we offered transportation, the associated costs meant there were limitations based on school locations and distance to travel. With our own minibus, we can expand access to some of our programmes.”

A newly reconfigured office space has also created a new on-site learning area to deliver a range of programmes to support young people.

The programmes offered on-site include the  Supported Insight Scheme, a work placement for small groups of students with special educational needs and disabilities. It supports students to learn about the world of work, whilst acquiring a range of transferable skills. It involves creating a range of marketing materials to support a business need or an upcoming company event.

They also offer Future Focus, which links with the Bolsover Partnership and Bolsover District Council to support the co-production of a ‘creative hub’ within the district. Students come up with innovative ideas for the hub and present these to employers associated with the planning process at the end of the programme.

Sophie Haley, Future Focus Programme Leader said, “The open-plan learning space is designed to be welcoming, helping students to feel at ease, and build their confidence. With the addition of the minibus, we’re able to invite more schools and support more young people to recognise their potential.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Business support programme powers growth for Chesterfield businesses

Nearly 5,000 businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicester have received expert support through the Accelerator Programme.  The initiative is helping Chesterfield firms grow, innovate, and create jobs.

Delivered by East Midlands Chamber and backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Accelerator Programme launched in 2023 and has already supported 4,790 businesses across the region. The programme offers tailored advice, access to funding, sustainability support, and specialist services for exporters and high-growth firms.

Thanks to its success, the programme has been extended until March 2026.

In Chesterfield, the programme has made a tangible difference to local businesses, helping them scale up, adapt, and thrive in a changing economy.  Businesses have already benefited from the programme, include:

  • Black Swan Cyber Security received expert advice and funding to develop a new cybersecurity product, helping the business grow its client base and expand its service offer.
  • Images Costumes, a theatrical costume supplier, used Accelerator support to invest in digital marketing and streamline operations, boosting visibility and efficiency.
  • Ellenvale Interiors, a bespoke furniture and interiors business, accessed one-to-one adviser support and workshops to refine its growth strategy and reach new markets.
  • Finneys Wood Finishes received help to explore decarbonisation options and improve sustainability, reducing costs and future-proofing the business.

Across the region, the Accelerator Programme has:

  • Created 143 new businesses
  • Supported the creation of 598 jobs
  • Safeguarded 505 existing roles
  • Helped 401 businesses introduce new products, technologies or processes

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber, said: “The tailored business support and workshops the Chamber delivered under the Accelerator Programme have made a very tangible impact in the region when it comes to business expansion, job creation and safeguarding, and the introduction of new products, technologies and processes.
With time limited to get registered, I’d urge businesses interested in exploring the wide range of support available to take that first step and get in touch.”

The Accelerator Programme offers the following support:

  • One-to-one support from expert business advisers
  • Access to grant funding (where available)
  • Growth vouchers for new technology
  • Decarbonisation and sustainability support
  • Export and high-growth business services
  • Workshops and webinars on key business topics

Businesses can register now to access support before the programme ends in March 2026. A full schedule of upcoming training events is available at:
https://bit.ly/AcceleratorTrainingEv

A wide range of business and skills support is available for businesses in Chesterfield.  Discover more at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Posted in Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Made in Chesterfield Festival builds future talent pipeline for economic growth

Chesterfield businesses are once again leading the way in shaping the town’s future workforce as the Made in Chesterfield Festival returns this autumn. Running from 25 September to the end of October, the festival introduces students to careers in the manufacturing and property sectors through hands-on experiences.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership, in association with Chesterfield College, the festival provides a direct link between employers and future talent. At the same time, it helps schools meet the updated Gatsby Benchmark requirements for careers education.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Board Member at Destination Chesterfield, said:

“Modern manufacturing is full of innovation and opportunity, right here in Chesterfield. But do our young people know about the businesses and careers open to them locally? Made in Chesterfield helps our young people see what’s possible. It also shows employers like us at MSE the future talent that is available.”

This year, the festival introduces the Innovation Challenge, a new programme that pairs schools with local employers to solve real-world business problems. Students will visit a workplace, collaborate in teams, and present their solutions at a showcase event. As a result, they will gain valuable insight into how classroom learning connects to real careers.

James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar Ltd, added:

“The Innovation Challenge is an exciting way to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. It connects the classroom to real careers and gives students a chance to apply their learning in a practical setting.”

Claire Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership, said:

“Made in Chesterfield is tailor-made for the Gatsby Benchmarks and takes away pressure from schools to organise visits themselves. The Made in Chesterfield Festival provides meaningful encounters to support businesses to inspire and find their employees of the future.”

Andrew Knowles, Head Teacher at Tupton Hall School, said:

“As a headteacher, I see firsthand how powerful it is when students engage with real employers. The Made in Chesterfield Festival brings careers education to life and helps our pupils see a future for themselves in the local economy.”

Claire Godfrey, Deputy Principal at Chesterfield College Group, the headline sponsor of the festival, added:

“We see this as a vital opportunity to connect education with industry. We support our local employers with the future skills and talent they need to flourish here, giving our students the knowledge and ability to enjoy successful careers in the area. This fantastic festival engages students at an earlier age, providing a real-world insight and enthusiasm about the fantastic career paths that are available in and around Chesterfield, so we’re delighted to be headline sponsor once again.”

Since its launch in 2014, the festival has reached more than 3,500 students. It continues to challenge outdated perceptions of careers in manufacturing and the property sector. Moreover, it strengthens the relationship between education and industry across North Derbyshire.

Businesses supporting include United Cast Bar Ltd, Weightron Bilanchai, MSE Hiller, Penny Hydrolics, Fast Signs, Aztec Oils, and Superior Wellness.

Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership deliver Made in Chesterfield in association with Chesterfield College. Chesterfield Borough Council, EMCCA Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and headteachers from schools across the region support the delivery of the Festival.

The Innovation Challenge event is organised in partnership with CBE+, Workwise, and North East Derbyshire District Council.

To find out more about taking part in the festival, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/made-in-chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Chesterfield businesses unlock over £170k in funding to upskill their workforce

Chesterfield businesses have accessed more than £170,000 in government funding through the Adult Apprenticeship Levy Transfer, helping them invest in their teams with little or no cost to their organisation[1].

The funding, which was part of a wider allocation secured by Derbyshire County Council during the 2024/25 financial year, has enabled 104 adult apprenticeships across the county, supporting workforce development in 41 local businesses.

In Chesterfield alone, 11 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have benefited from £170,426 in levy transfer support, including organisations from healthcare, childcare, engineering and social care.

More information about apprenticeship funding in Chesterfield is available at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/hiring-an-apprentice/apprenticeship-funding-opportunities/

Sheepbridge-based manufacturer, Graphoidal Developments, which specialises in lubricating and coating solutions for the glass container industry, was just one of the 11 to benefit. The funding supported both a level five operations manager and a level six product design and development engineer.

“Accessing the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer funding has been a game-changer for our business,” said Carl Singleton, Operations Director at Graphoidal Developments. “It enabled us to upskill without the financial burden.”

“Working with the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service made the process straightforward, too. They guided us through every step and helped us find the right training provider. We’d encourage other local businesses to explore what support is available.”

The Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, funded by Chesterfield Borough Council, provides free, impartial advice to local employers looking to invest in training and skills development. It can help businesses identify training needs, access funding streams such as the Levy Transfer, connect with local training providers, and offer support with inclusive recruitment, all at no cost.

Diane Beresford, Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership and Deputy CEO of East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are pleased to see businesses taking advantage of funding opportunities to upskill their workforce and drive growth, and we hope that more will do so over the next financial year. With expert support available through the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, there’s never been a better time for businesses to take that next step.”

A dedicated skills website is available for businesses to access via Destination Chesterfield, the town’s place marketing partnership, which works with partners to boost investment and has engaged with over 500 companies over the past two years.

Andy Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “Employers upskilling their teams and strengthening their organisations is vital to the long-term growth of our town. Initiatives like this, combined with expert guidance from the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service, are key to building a resilient, future-ready workforce that helps Chesterfield compete in an increasingly competitive market. I urge businesses to access business and skills opportunities now.”

Chesterfield businesses of all sizes can access skills advice by emailing: info@chesterfield.co.uk or visiting www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

[1] The Adult Apprenticeship Levy allows businesses to access 95 – 100% of the costs of apprenticeship training (up to the funding band maximum).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, SkillsTagged in , , , , ,

Chesterfield businesses encouraged to capitalise on Government’s £165bn Industrial Strategy

Chesterfield’s business community are being encouraged to seize the opportunities presented by the Government’s newly launched Modern Industrial Strategy, which sets out a ten-year vision to drive growth across advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, and digital innovation.

The strategy, shaped through national consultation including input from businesses in Chesterfield, outlines over £165 billion in sectoral investment and introduces a range of measures to support SMEs, improve planning, and boost skills.

Key initiatives include:

  • £39bn into advanced manufacturing
  • £30bn into clean energy
  • £31bn into creative industries
  • £65bn into professional and business services
  • £1.2bn per year for skills development
  • A new Business Growth Service to improve access to support and funding
  • Expansion of the Made Smarter programme with up to £99m for SME manufacturers
  • Measures to address late payments and improve procurement access
  • Planning reforms to fast-track projects

The East Midlands is already home to nationally significant assets in clean energy, defence, and life sciences. Chesterfield’s manufacturing base and successful track record of developing innovative skills and business support initiatives position it to benefit directly from the strategy’s priorities.

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “The Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy marks a turning point. It speaks directly to the strengths, ambitions, and future of the East Midlands.

“The strategy sets out a bold, ten-year vision to back Britain’s industrial heartlands to drive clean growth, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and the digital revolution.

“For the East Midlands, this means jobs, skills, and global investment. But above all, it means that our region, long overlooked, is finally being recognised as the engine of the UK’s future growth.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, added: “This strategy aligns with the ambitions we’ve been championing in Chesterfield — supporting SMEs, investing in skills, and driving innovation. Our businesses are ready to grow, and this national framework gives us the tools to do it. We’ll continue working with partners to ensure Chesterfield is not only included in this vision but helps lead its delivery.”

Whilst the new industrial strategy has been welcomed, East Midlands Chamber has called for more detail on how the strategy will be delivered and how it will benefit businesses across the East Midlands.

East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight, Richard Blackmore, said: “Measures announced in the Industrial Strategy are a welcome blueprint for businesses to build on. The detail of exactly how each element is applied is what will really matter and what needs to be scrutinised going forward.”

“With all the investment pledged, we need to see the region fully benefit.  What’s needed now is the critical detail on implementation of the strategy, which must have East Midlands businesses front and centre to enable growth.”

Read the Modern Industrial Strategy

Discover more about the support available to businesses in Chesterfield.

If you are a business in Chesterfield and would like play a proactive role in the economic growth of Chesterfield, the Chesterfield Champions may be for you.   Over 230 Chesterfield Champions support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.  Find out more about Chesterfield Champions.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Chesterfield Champions celebrate business milestones

Chesterfield Champions from the hospitality, manufacturing, and sustainability sectors are celebrating business milestones.

These businesses continued to impact the town’s economy, and their success highlights the borough’s environment, which supports businesses to thrive.

370,000 people stay in Chesterfield

Casa Hotel is celebrating 15 years of hospitality excellence, having welcomed its 370,000th guest. Founded by local entrepreneur Steve Perez, the 4-star hotel has become a key destination for business and leisure visitors. With its award-winning Cocina restaurant, vibrant Barca Bar, and location near the Peak District and major transport links, Casa Hotel plays a central role in Chesterfield’s visitor economy.

“What I’m most proud of is the positive impact we’ve had on Chesterfield and the surrounding areas,” said Steve Perez. “From the beginning, we’ve aimed to provide something special for both our local community and visitors.”

20 years of manufacturing success

Mould Ability, a composite manufacturing firm based in Staveley, has launched a new website to mark over 20 years in business. The site highlights the company’s expertise in master patterns, moulds and lightweight GRP products, and supports its ambition to grow and attract new talent.

“Chesterfield is my hometown and it was always going to be the home of Mould Ability,” said Managing Director Mark Blackbourn. “I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved in the last 20 years, and I look forward to our continued growth right here in Chesterfield.”

Celebrating seven years of sustainability support

Green Arch Consulting is celebrating seven years of helping clients embed sustainability into their operations. Over the past year, the firm has expanded its team, launched a new ESG advisory service, and joined UKSIF to deepen its responsible investment expertise. The firm also welcomed Adrian Barnes as a new Partner, bringing over 20 years of experience in sustainable finance.

“What started as a small independent consultancy has grown into a trusted partner for clients across the world,” said Founder and Director Emma Knight-Strong.

Find out more about doing business in Chesterfield.

Casa Hotel, Mould Ability and Green Arch Consulting support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing

200 young people supported by Careers Made in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is investing in the future of its workforce through the continued success of the Careers Made in Chesterfield (CMiC) programme, a key part of the borough’s Skills Action Plan.

Funded by Chesterfield Borough Council and delivered by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), this year’s initiative has engaged over 200 young people through hands-on workshops and real-world work experience.

Now in its second year, CMiC is helping to build a stronger local talent pipeline by connecting students with employers across Chesterfield’s key growth sectors. The programme has delivered 20 work experience placements and reached 214 students through interactive, sector-themed workshops.

“CMiC introduces students to a broad range of career opportunities within Chesterfield’s key growth sectors,” said Paula Symonds, Projects Manager at DEBP. “In year one, we focused on Property and Construction. Now in year two, we’ve expanded to include Health, Science and Social Care, and Engineering and Manufacturing.

Workshops were delivered at Parkside Community School, Springwell Community College, and Whittington Green School. Students worked in teams to tackle a simulated flooding emergency, designing flood prevention measures and planning a temporary hospital. The challenge encouraged them to explore transferable skills and career pathways across multiple sectors.

A student from Whittington Green School shared: “The best part was working with friends to create something that may help in the future.”

Students also took part in employer site visits, gaining valuable insight into local industries:

  • Springwell students visited Triton Construction at Staveley Canal Basin.
  • Chesterfield Youth Hub customers toured United Cast Bar and Thomas Bow City Asphalt, with one participant securing an apprenticeship.
  • Ashgate Croft students visited Stepnell at Spire Lodge and Thomas Bow City Asphalt at Chesterfield Market Place.

“The students thought their visit was interesting, learning about Thomas Bow’s company history and seeing the builders in action,” said Vicky Bridge, Gateway 1 Teacher at Ashgate Croft School. “They go to Chesterfield town centre every week, so it was great to see the progress on the market renovation.”

Fifteen local employers have supported CMiC this year, including: EcoTech Engineers Ltd, Environment Agency, Fortem, Frank Shaw Associates, Jackson Civil Engineering, Met Office, MSE Hiller, O’Brien Construction Ltd, Rodgers Leask Limited Consulting Engineers, Stepnell, Thomas Bow City Asphalt, Tim Jones Consulting, Triton Construction, and United Cast Bar.

Support has also come from Chesterfield College, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Derby.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, said: “The Careers Made in Chesterfield programme has had another successful year. The interactive workshops and work experience opportunities are an excellent way of young people gaining knowledge about local businesses and provide inspiration in terms of future career paths that could be followed.

“By working with employers, we can ensure that skills provision in the borough meets their future needs. I look forward to seeing how this programme continues to progress and hearing from young people about how it has helped them.”

Careers Made in Chesterfield is a vital part of Chesterfield’s long-term vision to ensure local people have the skills needed to thrive in the borough’s evolving economy. Businesses play a crucial role in this mission.

Employers interested in supporting the next generation – whether through site visits, mentoring, or work experience – are encouraged to get in touch with DEBP at enquiries@debp.org.

If you are a business and would like to receive regular email updates on initiatives to support careers guidance and advice, you can sign up here.

DEBP, Ecotech Engineers, Forem, Frank Shaw Associates, MSE Hiller, Rodgers Leask, Stepnall, United Cast Bar, Chesterfield College and the University of Derby support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Successful events raise the profile of apprenticeships in Chesterfield

Hundreds of young people have had a chance to find out more about the world of work, thanks to connecting directly with employers at events organised by Chesterfield Borough Council.

So far, this academic year, the Apprenticeship and T Level information events have led to a number of young people enrolling on courses at the Construction Skills Hub with Chesterfield College or being employed as an apprentice.

Anyone who missed out on the last event in May event is invited to come along to the next session in October, more information will be shared about this closer to the time, but there are also a range of apprenticeship opportunities which people can explore online.

The Apprenticeship and T Level information events are designed to help young people and their parents and carers to learn more about apprenticeships and educational opportunities available in Chesterfield. They are specifically for students who are leaving school and want to connect with local employers to find what skills or qualifications they need to pursue their future career.

The focus of these events has been the construction, manufacturing and engineering and health and social care sectors, which are all prominent sectors in the borough with lots of local opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council’s leader and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We have seen a lot of young people, and their parents and carers come along to these events over the last year, allowing them to make informed decisions about their future as well as reassuring parents and carers about the opportunities available to their child.

“Apprenticeships allow you to learn on the job, gain experience and knowledge that will all benefit you in your future career.  Working in partnership with East Midlands Combined County Authority Careers Hub, the ASK programme and local businesses is crucial to ensuring that the information provided at the events is current and relevant to people in Chesterfield and ensure that opportunities are available to school leavers.”

Currently there are 60 apprenticeships available within a 10-mile radius of Chesterfield through the find an apprenticeship service. Learn more about the opportunities here: www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, portfolio lead for Skills and Employment at East Midlands Combined County Authority, said: “The East Midlands is leading the way in innovation, and we’re committed to making sure our businesses have the skills and support they need to drive future growth. Apprenticeships play a vital role in this – they offer a practical, hands-on route for people to build careers and for employers to grow the talent they need. By investing in local talent through apprenticeships, we can tackle skills shortages, create high-quality jobs and build a stronger, more inclusive economy. This is a real opportunity for employers to help shape the future workforce – I’d encourage businesses to join the conference and explore what’s ahead.”

A range of employers have attended the Apprenticeship and T Level information events so far this year including Frank Shaw Associates, Chesterfield Royal Hospital , Eyesite View, Stepnell, University of Derby, DANCOP, Nottingham Trent University, Joined Up Careers, United Cast Bar, local engineering firm MSE Hiller as well as Chesterfield College who offer a variety of courses to get young people workplace ready.

Details about the next Apprenticeship and T Level information event will be shared on both the Chesterfield Borough Council website and social media pages ahead of the October event.

Chesterfield is the UK’s first Apprentice Town – where apprenticeships are at the heart of many local businesses. 

Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining qualifications whilst getting real life experience in the world of world and being paid for it.

Frank Shaw Associates, Chesterfield Royal Hospital , Eyesite View, Stepnell, University of Derby, United Cast Bar, MSE Hiller and Chesterfield College support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills

Successful skills partnership appoints new chair

The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership has marked its two-year milestone with the appointment of a new chair.

Diane Beresford, Deputy CEO of East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, has been appointed as the Skills and Employment Partnership Chair, where she will lead and facilitate partnership initiatives contained within the Chesterfield Skills Action Plan (2023-27) to build our local economy and bridge the skills gap.

Diane Beresford said: “If there’s one thing employers say over and over again, they want to see, it’s skills – when they advertise a role, they want a candidate that can hit the ground running. Right now, that’s often not the case, with six out of ten businesses telling us in our Quarterly Economic Survey that they’ve struggled to recruit.

“I want to do everything I can to help bridge that gap. As a Chesterfield resident myself, getting people into work or further ahead in their career is something I’m very passionate about, so I’m looking forward to sharing my insight to help more Chesterfield people get where they want to be.”

Representatives from the business community, public sector and education providers have joined forces as part of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership, to create opportunities that allow Derbyshire residents to access new programmes that aim to build skills, employability and help the local economy to develop.

Since 2023 when the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership was launched, hundreds of people have benefited from business support, recruitment events, upskilling, received support from the readiness to work programme and lots of new skills have been created through the skills hub.

Some of the highlights have included:

769 individuals engaging in sector specific career interventions (including the Apprenticeship and T Level information events)
106 Chesterfield based employees have been upskilled through UKSPF green and digital upskilling programmes
67 businesses accessed specialist skills funding and were supported through the Chesterfield Skills Brokerage Service
359 businesses supported 25 recruitment events attended by over 2500 individuals
642 young people engaged with the Chesterfield Youth Hub with 272 progressing into work or an apprenticeship
75 individuals supported through the work readiness programme
80 individuals developed new digital skills through the digital inclusion programme
42 learners supported via skills hub and 1172 individuals supported through careers’ interventions
808 jobs, 72 apprenticeships and £38.2m local contract value were enable through local labour planning clauses which are designed to lever skills and employment outcomes from development, improving outcomes for local people.

The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership is a key element of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Skills and Employment Partnership, said: “Over the last two years, we have supported hundreds of local people with training and work-based opportunities that have only been made possible through the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership.

“I am delighted that Diane Beresford has agreed to take on the role of Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership. She is passionate about ensuring people and businesses have the support they need to achieve their ambitions. I am sure under Diane’s leadership the Partnership will go from strength to strength.”

To find out more about programmes offered through The Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership contact: economic.development@chesterfield.gov.uk

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction

MTM Products invests in innovation to improve efficiency and product range

MTM Products, a trusted manufacturer of labels, graphic overlays, metal nameplates, vinyl cut decals and more, is taking steps to improve its efficiency and broaden its product range.

The Chesterfield-based manufacturer, known for providing reliable solutions across various industries, has made significant investments in advanced equipment, automation and leadership.

These commitments are designed to maintain the high standards expected by their customers, while strengthening the company’s long-term success.

To expand its production potential and efficiencies, a new flat-bed cutter has been acquired through the Made Smarter government initiative.

This initiative supports manufacturers in adopting advanced digital technologies by connecting UK manufacturing industries to the digital tools, leadership and skills they need to drive sustainable growth.

Alongside this, to help MTM Products improve efficiency, further investments have been made into state-of-the-art CO2 and fibre laser equipment. This will not only cut down on production time and enhance product quality but will also provide the flexibility to handle a wider range of projects.

Improving operations was another key focus for the company. To do this, MTM launched a new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system in March 2025.

The new system will now automate, streamline and improve communication across departments at the production level, resulting in faster turnaround times for customers.

March also saw the appointment of a new operations manager, whose role is to sharpen the focus of operations and maintain the high standards that MTM’s customers expect.

Bringing fresh expertise and a strong desire to drive operational growth, this new hire aligns with the company’s long-term strategy to increase internal capabilities while continuing to deliver high-quality solutions.

“Our investment in leadership is just as important as our investment in technology and is essential to maintain operational efficiency,” said Mark Niblett, Managing Director of MTM Products.

These investments are not just about boosting capabilities, but as a proud member of Made in the Midlands and MAKE UK, it’s about driving long-term growth within the business and the local community.

“By investing in innovation and local talent, we’re reinforcing our commitment to being a trusted UK manufacturer,” continued Mark Niblett.

Customers now have access to a wider range of cost-effective solutions, each designed to meet the unique needs of the industries MTM Products serves, ensuring reliability even in the most demanding environments.

Other investments aim to enhance quality control and increase precision, maintaining the high level of consistency and reliability that MTM Products is known for. Combined with its new ERP system, MTM is working to streamline its production and delivery processes, so it can continue to meet customer deadlines with ease.

Find out more about MTM Products at: https://www.mtmproducts.co.uk/contact/

MTM Products supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, Manufacturing, Skills, Uncategorised

The Eden Project launches energy development with Custom Solar

Chesterfield’s Custom Solar has worked with one of the UK’s main nature attractions to further improve its green credentials.

The Eden Project, an educational charity, world-class garden and global leader in sustainability and environmental storytelling, has launched a new 140 kWp roof-mounted solar PV system on its state-of-the-art plant and education facility, Growing Point.

This marks a significant next step in further reducing the charity’s carbon footprint and working towards its goal to become climate positive by 2030 and follows the launch of the UK’s first deep geothermal well since 1986 at the site in Cornwall, which provides heat to Growing Point, the Biomes and offices.

The solar project has been funded through Zestec Renewable Energy’s Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) model, exemplifying the Eden Project’s commitment to environmental innovation, and is being delivered by Custom Solar.

Well-known for its large Biomes and vast surrounding gardens housing thousands of plant species from across the globe, the Eden Project has long been a model of energy efficiency, biodiversity, and community engagement. Now live, this phase of its solar energy initiative is forecast to generate c.145 kWh of clean electricity annually, boosting the energy supply at the Eden Project, whilst saving 32 tonnes CO2e – the equivalent of 29 UK homes’ annual electricity usage – which supports wider initiatives towards its carbon reduction targets.

Zestec worked in partnership with Custom Solar, part of Mitie, whose expertise in delivering integrated solar solutions, ensured the smooth management of the engineering design, development and installation of the solar PV system.

The addition of this new solar PV system reinforces the Eden Project’s mission to help educate the public on the critical importance of sustainability and the accessibility of renewable energy. Embracing solar power not only contributes to further decreasing the Eden Project’s carbon footprint and its target to be climate positive by 2030 but is also actively supporting the UK’s decarbonisation goals.

Charles Sainsbury head of regenerative sustainability and energy at the Eden Project, said: “This solar installation is a powerful example of how we are advancing our mission to demonstrate ways in which we can take positive action for the planet and embrace renewable energy solutions. By building on our existing renewable energy infrastructure and literally harnessing the power of the sun, we are taking a significant step toward achieving our carbon reduction goals. This project not only enhances our energy resilience but also underscores the vital role renewable energy plays in addressing the global climate crisis.”

Simon Booth, CEO of Zestec Renewable Energy, said: “The Eden Project has always been a pioneer in sustainability, and we’re thrilled, along with Custom Solar, to work alongside them on this important initiative. This 140 kWp system is just the first phase of a multi-phase project that will see even greater levels of renewable energy deployed across their site. We’re proud to offer businesses the power to make a difference to their energy consumption and sustainability objectives.”

Gary Sucharewycz, Managing Director of Custom Solar, part of Mitie, said: “We’re proud to have supported the Eden Project’s ambitious sustainability mission with this innovative solar PV system, expertly designed to fit the unique architectural design of the Growing Point planting nursery. We look forward to continuing to work closely in partnership with Zestec and Eden Project on site-wide solar deployment, bringing our expertise in delivering specialist solar solutions to accelerate the Eden Project’s clean energy goals.”

Custom Solar supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,