Author: Dave Antrobus

UK Docks, a prominent ship repair specialist based in South Shields, has secured a lucrative contract with the Royal Navy valued at £4 million.The two-year agreement involves the maintenance of 38 newly acquired workboats under the Ministry of Defence’s Project Vahana.UK Docks’ achievement highlights the company’s ongoing collaboration with the Royal Navy. Previously, they have successfully maintained various vessels, further cementing their reputation in the maritime sector.Their expertise is critical, especially for the ‘Project Vahana’ workboats, which are crucial for tasks such as diving support and personnel transport.The Project Vahana initiative is designed to enhance the Royal Navy’s operational capabilities…

Plans have been approved for Watkin Jones to develop Scotland’s tallest residential structure in Glasgow. This landmark project will provide state-of-the-art accommodation.The project, known as the Ard scheme, will offer 784 student bedrooms and additional commercial spaces, revitalising a prominent brownfield site. This initiative addresses Glasgow’s housing demands while promoting urban regeneration.Development Approval and SignificanceWatkin Jones, a renowned developer, has received approval from Glasgow City Council for the construction of the Ard scheme. This ambitious project will culminate in a 36-storey tower, marking it as the tallest residential building in Scotland. By transforming Portcullis House, Watkin Jones intends to inject…

Swansea-based Lyte Ladders has brokered a deal to bolster its sustainability efforts.By increasing its lending facility with Secure Trust Bank Commercial, the company aims to enhance its eco-friendliness.Enhancing Financial Support for SustainabilityLyte Ladders, a Swansea-based leader in ladder manufacturing, has recently amplified its sustainability drive by increasing its lending facility with Secure Trust Bank Commercial. The organisation has secured an additional £275,000, bringing its total funding to a significant £6.35 million. This financial backing is pivotal for Lyte’s sustainability ambitions.Historically, Lyte has been at the forefront of producing aluminium and glass fibre ladders. The additional capital not only aids in…

Waitrose is embarking on an ambitious journey to expand its brand footprint in the United Kingdom. With plans to open 100 new stores, this expansion represents a robust growth strategy.Central to this growth is the enhancement of their ‘Little Waitrose’ convenience shops, complemented by strategic refurbishments of existing outlets. This initiative marks Waitrose’s commitment to offering enhanced customer experiences and broadening its market reach.Strategic ExpansionWaitrose, renowned as a premium grocer, is poised to undertake its largest expansion in six years by opening 100 new stores. This significant growth will transpire over the next three years, primarily through the development of…

Claridge’s Hotel in London has reported a significant boost in pre-tax profits, reaching £7.2 million. This remarkable achievement highlights the hotel’s strategic recovery and expansion efforts.With a turnover increase to £119.3 million, up from £98.1 million the previous year, the hotel attributes this success to the completion of its major expansion project and strong post-Covid demand.Financial TurnaroundClaridge’s Hotel in London has experienced a remarkable financial turnaround. The prestigious hotel reported a turnover of £119.3 million for the latest financial year, representing a significant increase from the previous year’s £98.1 million. This growth is attributed to a robust post-Covid recovery and…

Marv Studios, a leading London-based production company, marked a historic financial year with a notable pre-tax profit of £72.7 million. This achievement reflects a robust recovery from a previous loss of £12.5 million, demonstrating the company’s outstanding performance and strategic capabilities.A Record-Breaking YearMarv Studios, founded by renowned filmmakers Matthew Vaughn and Guy Ritchie, has reported an impressive financial year, marking its most successful period to date. The company announced a pre-tax profit of £72.7 million for the year ending 30 June 2023. This milestone comes after experiencing a pre-tax loss of £12.5 million in the previous fiscal year.Factors Behind the…

DME Systems, a prominent player in subsea engineering, is enhancing its footprint in Tyneside.The company has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art facility in South Shields, accommodating its expanding operations and workforce.Subsea engineering company, DME Systems, has embarked on a significant expansion in Tyneside. With a new facility spanning 11,500 square feet in South Shields, the company has increased its capacity to accommodate growing demand. This strategic move follows the creation of new jobs, highlighting DME’s commitment to regional economic growth and innovation.DME Systems, founded nearly three years ago, has experienced remarkable growth. Initially employing 16 people, the company now boasts a…

The anticipated clearance of Barratt’s acquisition of Redrow by the Competition and Markets Authority marks a significant milestone in the UK housing sector.This potential merger between two leading housebuilders is set to reshape the market dynamics, addressing competition concerns while aiming to enhance housing supply.Potential Clearance by the CMAThe Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has hinted that the measures proposed by Barratt and Redrow are likely to be accepted, allowing a merger that would create one of the largest housebuilders in the UK. This statement follows significant discussions addressing competition concerns, particularly in areas around Whitchurch, Shropshire.Barratt’s planned £2.5 billion…

In a surprising move, St Ann’s Square in Manchester is set to host a new Cupra car showroom. This marks the first city centre dealership since Ford’s Arndale presence.Transforming a Historic LocationSt Ann’s Square, nestled in the heart of Manchester, is no stranger to attractions. Known for its prestigious shopping streets, trendy cafes, and historic Royal Exchange, it is now poised for a modern twist. The introduction of a car showroom here comes as a surprise for many, given the square’s traditionally pedestrian-friendly status.The potential establishment of a Cupra showroom introduces a unique blend of retail and automotive experiences, catering…

The spotlight is set on Greater Birmingham as the region gears up to celebrate its most promising young professionals. This prestigious event, orchestrated by Future Faces, recognises exceptional talent across various sectors.With a record number of nominations, the awards promise to celebrate the vibrant and dynamic professional landscape of Birmingham, underscoring the region’s continued growth and innovation.Celebrating Emerging Talent in Greater BirminghamThe shortlist for the prestigious Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards has been unveiled. These awards, administered by Future Faces, the young professionals’ arm of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, seek to recognise outstanding talent among…