Author: Dave Antrobus

In a significant move, Inktavo, a prominent US-based company, has acquired Solihull’s Clarity Software.This acquisition aims to enhance Inktavo’s service offerings and expand its geographical footprint, particularly in the signage and graphics industry.Clarity Software, located in Solihull, has been acquired by Inktavo, a company based in Austin, USA. The deal’s financial terms remain undisclosed. Clarity Software is known for its management information systems tailored for job pricing, inventory management, and production processes within the signs and graphics sector. This acquisition will allow Inktavo to strengthen its portfolio and extend its influence across more regions.James Armijo, CEO of Inktavo, echoed a…

The Financial Ombudsman Service has observed a substantial rise in banking complaints.This increase raises concerns about the sector’s handling of consumer issues.Surge in ComplaintsThe Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) has reported a substantial increase in complaints concerning banking and payment products during the financial year 2023/24. Consumers lodged a total of 80,137 grievances, a sharp rise from the 61,995 cases recorded in the preceding year. This increase marks the highest level of complaints in a decade and underscores significant issues within the banking sector.Key drivers of this surge include rising concerns regarding current accounts, credit cards, and an alarming expansion in…

The Euro 2024 final is set to be a monumental occasion not only for football fans but for the UK’s hospitality sector.As England prepares to face Spain in a highly anticipated match, pubs and bars nationwide anticipate a surge in patronage and revenue.Economic Impact of Euro 2024 FinalThe eagerly anticipated Euro 2024 final, featuring England against Spain, is more than just a sporting event. It represents a significant economic opportunity for the United Kingdom’s hospitality sector. As excitement builds, predictions suggest that UK pubs and bars will experience a £120 million boost in trading. This anticipated surge comes as fans…

Construction has commenced on the new Fradley Link logistics development, a significant addition to the West Midlands’ infrastructure.With a £26 million investment, the project aims to introduce two sustainable warehouse units, showcasing modern industrial development in Lichfield.The Fradley Link development is slated to introduce two new warehouse units totalling around 280,000 sq ft. Spearheaded by the Leeds-based Evans Property Group, the project focuses on sustainability and flexibility, designed to accommodate a diverse range of occupiers. GMI Construction is at the helm as the main contractor, ensuring a high standard of build quality.Planning approvals were secured in April, with the first…

Essar Energy Transition (EET) aims to develop Europe’s inaugural 100% hydrogen-fuelled power facility at the Stanlow refinery. This initiative aligns with EET’s commitment to drastically reduce emissions at its Cheshire location.By 2027, EET expects to launch its hydrogen-ready combined heat and power plant (CHP) at Stanlow, positioning it as a pioneer in low-carbon energy solutions. The plant will utilise hydrogen from the refinery to produce essential power and steam, supporting significant emission reductions.Essar Energy Transition’s initiative to develop a 100% hydrogen-fuelled power plant is a groundbreaking step towards decarbonisation. The Stanlow refinery’s new facility will use hydrogen to power operations,…

Graphcore, a prominent chipmaker in Bristol, has entered a pivotal new phase through its acquisition by SoftBank Group, a leading technological investor. This development marks a significant point in Graphcore’s journey, given the backing from such a globally influential entity.Founded in 2016, Graphcore has rapidly established itself as a key player in AI semiconductors. Its alignment with SoftBank is anticipated to drive forward efforts in AI development, which continues to see unprecedented demand worldwide.Acquisition OverviewBristol’s innovative semiconductor company, Graphcore, has been acquired by the Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group. The deal, while exact figures remain undisclosed, is speculated to be valued…

Domis, a prominent construction company renowned for its work on Salboy’s towers, is experiencing a leadership change. Lee McCarren, a co-founder, is retiring, making way for Kingsley Thornton as the new managing director.This transition marks a new chapter for Domis, which has been instrumental in shaping Manchester’s skyline. As McCarren steps down, Thornton is poised to continue the company’s legacy of excellence in the construction industry.Lee McCarren’s tenure as managing director of Domis has been marked by remarkable achievements. Since its inception seven years ago, Domis has completed around 5,000 new homes and numerous commercial projects. The company has played…

A survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors highlights a renewed sense of optimism among property professionals. This hope for a rebound in house sales, along with expected market adjustments, creates an interesting outlook.Current Optimism in the Property SectorExpectations for a resurgence in house sales among property professionals are noted as the strongest since January 2022, as highlighted by recent survey data from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). A net balance of 20% of professionals predicts a rebound in home sales within the upcoming three months, which marks a positive shift in market sentiment. This renewed confidence…

DWF has announced a strategic leadership change in its Manchester office. Joel Heap has been named the new managing partner, a position previously held by Kirsty Rogers.Heap, an expert in corporate litigation, aims to strengthen DWF’s presence in the region. Meanwhile, Rogers transitions to a pivotal role focusing on sustainability as the firm’s first chief sustainability officer.Joel Heap, a seasoned professional within DWF, steps into the role of managing partner of the Manchester office. Heap joined the firm in 2008 and has been instrumental in building the litigation practice in the North West. By maintaining his role as UK &…

Three accomplished women have joined the board of Colmore Business Improvement District (BID), bringing a wealth of experience in law, built environment, and development sectors.Joanna-Lee Mills, Alison Kilby, and Hannah Voogd are the new directors, each offering unique insights to the BID’s mission of economic enhancement and district improvement.The introduction of Joanna-Lee Mills, Alison Kilby, and Hannah Voogd to the Colmore BID board marks a significant step forward. Their combined expertise from the legal, built environment, and development sectors is expected to enhance the strategic goals of the BID. This appointment comes as the BID begins its new five-year tenure,…