Author: Dave Antrobus

Driver Hire has expanded its regional operations by opening a new franchise in Oldbury. This strategic move aims to strengthen its presence across the West Midlands.Led by Pritesh Panchal, the new franchise is poised to leverage the region’s economic potential. His experience and vision align with Driver Hire’s goal for targeted regional growth.Driver Hire, a prominent UK employment agency, has launched another franchise in Oldbury. This latest addition complements their existing operations in areas like Bromsgrove, Willenhall, Worcester, and Birmingham. The strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to deepening its footprint across the West Midlands, in line with their ongoing…

The North East business community stands as a pillar of support through diverse initiatives and partnerships. Key players like Tier One Capital and Story Homes are evident contributors to regional development and societal betterment.This week’s highlights from the North East reveal a trend of community-focused activities. These initiatives, ranging from corporate sponsorships to charitable donations, illustrate the ongoing commitment of businesses to leverage their resources for positive societal impact.Sponsorship CollaborationIn recent collaborative efforts, Tier One Capital and Central Employment have united as sponsors for Durham Cricket’s one-day fixture against Hampshire CCC. This sponsorship underscores local businesses’ essential role in sustaining…

CK Infrastructure Holdings, based in Hong Kong, is poised to strengthen its foothold in the UK by listing on the London Stock Exchange. This move signifies a strategic expansion of its market presence.The upcoming listing complements its current Hong Kong Exchange presence, indicating the UK as a pivotal market for CK Infrastructure. It is expected to commence trading in London next Monday.Strategic Expansion into the UK MarketCK Infrastructure Holdings, the majority owner of Northumbrian Water, is set to broaden its presence within the United Kingdom, signifying a key strategic move by listing on the London Stock Exchange. Currently listed on…

The United Kingdom’s economy has continued its recovery trajectory, expanding by 0.6 per cent in the second quarter of 2024. This growth aligns with expectations set by economists.Driven primarily by a robust services sector, this period marked continued strengthening of the UK market, despite a slight deceleration from the first quarter’s results.Economic Performance in Q2The United Kingdom’s economy experienced a modest growth of 0.6 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, aligning with economists’ forecasts. This growth marks a slight deceleration from the first quarter’s 0.7 per cent expansion. The Office for National Statistics has attributed this performance primarily…

A major expansion for BK Plus has been announced with its acquisition of two renowned Cornish accountancy firms.Walker Moyle and Pooleys, both with longstanding histories, join BK Plus, enhancing their reach in the South West.Strategic Acquisition of Cornish FirmsA significant development has unfolded as two prominent Cornish accountancy firms have been acquired by a West Midlands-based financial advisory company, BK Plus. The businesses, Walker Moyle and Truro-based Pooleys, were integrated into BK Plus as part of a strategic expansion initiative. This move marks a crucial step in BK Plus’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the South West region.Historic Roots…

The commencement of a £10 million development at Melton West business park marks a pivotal moment for East Yorkshire’s commercial landscape.This project promises to deliver extensive commercial space, fostering economic growth and supporting numerous jobs in the region.Evolve @ Melton West ExpansionConstruction has commenced on a substantial £10 million development at the Melton West business park in East Yorkshire. This ambitious project aims to deliver 85,000 square feet of commercial space tailored for burgeoning enterprises. The initiative is anticipated to create or sustain approximately 100 construction jobs, marking a significant contribution to the local economy.Triton Construction’s RoleWykeland Group, a Hull-based…

Johns&Co, a prominent London-based estate agency, has made a strategic entry into the North West by opening a new office in Manchester. This move is part of a broader plan to strengthen its UK presence.By expanding its operations into Manchester, Johns&Co seeks to tap into the city’s dynamic property market. The company aims to provide its renowned services to a broader range of residential property investors across the region.Strategic Expansion into the North WestJohns&Co, a leading estate agency specialising in new homes and asset management, has made a significant move by launching a new office in Manchester. This expansion marks…

Newcastle City Council has completed the acquisition of Stockbridge House, a central Newcastle property, for £8.6 million.This strategic purchase includes office space, a multi-story car park, and a former restaurant, potentially generating long-term savings and development opportunities.Newcastle City Council has strategically acquired Stockbridge House, a prime property located in Newcastle’s city centre. The acquisition, completed for £8.6 million, includes not only office accommodation but also a multi-storey car park and a restaurant space. This purchase was conducted on an ‘invest to save’ basis, aiming to generate significant long-term savings for the council. By securing ownership of the entire property, the…

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has penalised Cyprus-based broker Forex TB £276,100. This decision comes after findings of unfair customer treatment and unauthorised investment advice.Although initially set at £1.215 million, the fine was reduced to prevent significant financial hardship for Forex TB.The FCA uncovered that Forex TB coerced customers into engaging in high-risk activities such as contract-for-difference (CFD) trading. This form of trading permits betting on market fluctuations without owning the underlying assets.The investigation revealed that many customers, inexperienced in trading, were recommended to seek loans from friends or family, elevating their financial risk.Furthermore, the company often gave investment advice…

The Edwin Group, a prominent education services firm, has reported a notable rise in both sales and profits despite industry challenges.Based in Newcastle, the group has published accounts showing a turnover increase to £78.4 million, alongside a significant rise in operating profit to £2.34 million.During the fiscal year ending August 2023, the Edwin Group demonstrated robust financial performance. The company experienced a notable increase in turnover, rising from £72.5 million to £78.4 million. Additionally, operating profit saw a significant boost, escalating from £1.8 million to £2.34 million. This financial vitality underscores the group’s resilience in navigating a challenging landscape.Founded in…