Author: Dave Antrobus

In a strategic business decision, Intelligent Ultrasound has entered into a conditional agreement to sell its clinical AI division to GE HealthCare for £40.5m.This decision reflects a shift in the company’s focus towards reinforcing its medtech simulation business, aiming for sustained growth and innovation.Sale of Clinical AI DivisionIntelligent Ultrasound, a prominent medtech firm based in Cardiff, has announced the conditional sale of its clinical AI division to the American company, GE HealthCare, for a substantial £40.5 million. The transaction, which is now pending shareholder approval, will see the transfer of the chief technology officer, Nick Sleep, along with the clinical…

The expansion of Autoglass into Redditch marks the opening of its first branch in the area in two decades. Situated in Enfield Industrial Estate, this facility is strategically chosen for easy access by the local community.Autoglass, a leading name in the windscreen repair and replacement sector, has strategically expanded its footprint with a new branch in Redditch. This move comes as a part of a broader strategy to enhance its customer service network across the UK, in response to the growing demand for advanced windscreen technologies.Ryan Edwards, the regional manager, highlights the strategic choice for this site, ensuring it is…

Tourism in the West Midlands reached unprecedented heights in 2023, setting new attendance records despite previous major events.The region’s success story is supported by a significant economic impact and job growth driven by the tourism industry.Record Visitor Numbers in 2023In 2023, the West Midlands witnessed an unprecedented surge in tourism, welcoming a record-breaking 145.4 million visitors. This figure marks an increase of over four million individuals compared to the previous year, despite the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The visitor economy of the region has now soared to a value of £16.3 billion, indicating a significant boost in regional economic activity.Economic Impact…

Spotlight Pathology, a pioneering firm at the forefront of blood cancer diagnostics, has secured significant funding to scale its operations. This strategic investment highlights a broader commitment to embracing female leadership in high-impact ventures.Spotlight Pathology Secures Major InvestmentLiverpool’s LYVA Labs has affirmed its commitment to nurturing female-led enterprises by awarding its fourth grant to a business spearheaded by women. Spotlight Pathology, an innovative AI healthtech firm focusing on blood cancer diagnostics, has been granted £125,000. This funding aims to fast-track the development and market entry of the firm’s cutting-edge diagnostic tools, embodying an efficient response to the global scarcity of…

BGEN, a prominent engineering firm, is set to create over 100 jobs nationwide following a series of contract successes.The expansion aims to enhance the company’s mechanical and electrical workforce, driven by increasing demand across the UK.Engineering firm BGEN has embarked on a significant expansion, anticipating the creation of over 100 new jobs across the United Kingdom. This initiative follows a series of strategic contract wins. The company’s rebranding from Boulting in 2021 underlines its ambitious growth strategy. Currently, BGEN is focused on expanding its mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control, and automation workforce, responding to increased demand across various regions including England,…

Northern Bear, a prominent construction firm based in Newcastle, has demonstrated resilience by maintaining a solid order book. Despite challenging weather conditions impacting operations, the company has managed to deliver satisfactory results.Over the past year, Northern Bear has strategically enhanced its gross margins by focusing on profitable segments, while managing increased operational costs. This strategy outlines a promising trajectory for the company’s upcoming financial year.Steady Financial PerformanceIn its latest financial results, Northern Bear reported stable revenue and operating profits for the year ending March, despite adverse weather conditions. The persistent heavy rainfall particularly affected the second half of the year,…

Two leading digital agencies in the North have merged to form a full-service business, combining their expertise to offer enhanced digital solutions.By uniting under the Fresh Digital brand, Peachy Digital and Fresh Digital aim to expand their service offerings and strengthen their presence across the UK.The collaboration between Peachy Digital and Fresh Digital marks a significant step in the digital agency landscape in the North. After successfully cooperating on numerous projects over the past two years, the decision to merge was seen as a natural progression. Operating under the Fresh Digital brand, the combined entity aims to offer a comprehensive…

The UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) has significantly boosted the economy of Leeds and West Yorkshire. This premier event, crucial to the property sector, has generated £21 million in local economic activity.With an increasing number of attendees and extended delegate stays, UKREiiF is not only strengthening regional economic ties but also showcasing West Yorkshire’s potential as a business hub.Significant Economic Contribution from UKREiiFThe UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), held in Leeds, has resulted in an impressive £21 million economic impact on the city and surrounding West Yorkshire region. Organisers have highlighted a notable increase…

The Edwin Group, a prominent education support services provider based in Newcastle, has been acquired by Quad Partners.This acquisition signals a new phase of growth for the UK-based company, marking an exit for previous investor LDC.Strategic Acquisition by Quad PartnersQuad Partners, a specialist in education industries, has completed an acquisition of The Edwin Group. The acquisition, with undisclosed financial terms, positions Quad Partners to expand its influence in the UK education sector. The deal marks a significant exit for LDC, who had invested in the group to facilitate a management buyout.The Edwin Group, comprising eight companies, is known for recruiting…

Data management firm Cirata has successfully raised $7.2 million to support its ongoing turnaround strategy. Despite delays in deals, the company’s 2024 performance remains on course.Strategic steps toward restructuring and cost optimisation are key elements that Cirata is implementing to overcome current challenges, positioning itself for sustainable growth.Successful Fundraising InitiativeData management company Cirata successfully completed a fundraising round, amassing $7.2 million (£5.2 million) through a share offer. This strategic move is seen as a vital step in supporting the company’s ambitious turnaround plans. Participating key executives, including CEO Stephen Kelly and non-executive chair Ken Lever, contributed approximately $50,000 (£39,000) collectively.…