Sheffield-based technology and IT firm, Simoda, has announced three new board appointments as it expands its services into Europe following a year of 35% growth. The expansion is driven by rising client demand and will see Simoda initially leverage its new base in Amsterdam to deliver services across the continent, having already completed projects for a French governmental body.

Sales and marketing professionals are the most sought-after employees in the North West of England, according to a new analysis that points to a rapidly changing regional job market. The study of live job advertisements in May 2025 across the North West found that Sales & Marketing roles topped the list, with an estimated 8,267 vacancies.

Business confidence in the North West climbed by 30 points to 57% in October. Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects rose by 27 points to 71%, while optimism in the economy rose by 34 points to 43%. A net balance of 65% of businesses in the region also expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 40 points on last month. Overall UK business confidence climbs eight points in October to 50%.

Mr Kipling’s iconic cakes could soon be mixed by the sun, thanks to a two-year £2.1 million investment at Premier Foods’ Carlton Bakery. The site, a major South Yorkshire employer and longstanding part of the community for over 50 years, is now home to a new solar energy farm following a major investment by the company.

Leeds has been ranked the number one city in the UK for construction growth, due to a combination of high housing completions, strong planning activity, and thriving construction businesses. Despite broader economic uncertainty, the construction sector continues to show strong momentum, and Leeds is at the heart of it.

Croda International Plc, the speciality chemicals firm based in Yorkshire, has secured a Silver for Best New Ingredient at The Pure Beauty Awards UK 2025 for its naturally-derived emulsifier, Natrineo™ CR8. The accolade celebrates innovation and excellence across the cosmetics and personal care sectors.

Across the UK, 86% of small businesses fear the possibility of Autumn Budget announcements that, in their view, would adversely impact their plans for growth – with rises to taxation and fuel duty topping the list of concerns – according to new research from Novuna Business Finance.

Assessing the mood of business ahead of President Trump’s discussions with China’s President XI this week, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Businesses will be watching these talks very closely in the hope of divining some certainty on the direction of travel for global trade.

David Tyler, Founder and CEO of Outlier Technology is the latest regional professional in the hot seat as the p.ublished group of newspapers gives him just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions. What does a typical working day for you involve? I work from home mainly,…

Amazon has invested over £5.1 billion in the Yorkshire and the Humber region since 2010, according to its recently updated 2025 UK Economic Impact Hub. This significant capital expenditure has driven substantial economic activity, job creation, and skills development across the North of England.

JCB is marking its 80th birthday with news of a £100 million investment in ultra-modern manufacturing facilities at its global headquarters in the UK.

Oadby Plastics, one of the UK’s largest independent plastics suppliers, has reinforced its commitment to sustainability by achieving carbon neutral waste and reducing single use plastic waste.

Small business owners across Yorkshire, the North East and North West have the chance to win a £150,000 package made up of cash and expert support as part of the Havas Boost Business competition, which is now open for entries.

Reed Boardall, one of the UK’s largest temperature-controlled food distribution businesses, has unveiled a striking new flagship trailer design, proudly showcasing its support for Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA). The new trailer design features Reed Boardall’s much-loved polar bear mascot at the controls of a YAA helicopter, with both organisations’ logos clearly displayed.

New research suggests that a growing number of UK workers are considering retraining in the skilled trades sector, driven by concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) and high job dissatisfaction. A report released by MyBuilder.com reveals that more than a fifth of people are considering retraining as a plumber, electrician, or in other skilled trades.

Samantha Overton, managing director of Zebra Print Group is the latest regional professional in the hot seat as the p.ublished group of newspapers gives her just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions. What does a typical working day for you involve? No two days are ever the…