chesterfield business news

New owners take on Chesterfield Italian restaurant with almost 50-year history

A Chesterfield Italian restaurant which dates back to the early 1970s will continue its legacy, after being taken on by new owners.

Lambarellis, based on Chatsworth Road was the first Italian delicatessen and pizza takeaway in chesterfield, and has been serving customers in the town since 1976.

The original owner, Michele Lambarelli then expanded the business in 1982 adding a restaurant to the existing offer.

Since then Michelle passed down his beloved recipes to his daughter Teresa, who went on to set up her own business from home making high-quality pasta sauces.

Lambarellis pasta sauces and products on display

Teresa then took over the whole business in 2011, adding pasta and prosecco evenings and continuing to grow the Lambarellis reputation. She said: “We had regular customers that become friends over the years, which made our business feel like a home.”

Now, Teresa has decided to take a step back from the business, selling it to a top Italian chef and his family from Sardinia. The new owners, Nico, Marina Giorgiana, Giulia , Mattia are now the proud owners of La Dolce Vita Lambarellis. Teresa added: “I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect family to carry on Lambarellis tradition. We wish Nico and his family all the very best and know it has been left in the best hands.”

New owner Nico commented: “I’m beyond excited and would like to assure customers old and new that we will continue delivering top quality Italian food & service. All our food is made with passion and from the heart. It’s an honour to carry on the Lambarellis name and make the family proud for many years to come.

“We’ll be extending the menu with even more Italian classics, adapting recipes to to my expertise – having lived in Sardinia 15 years.”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, commented: “It’s fantastic to see one of Chesterfield’s longest-running restaurants continuing to build its legacy.

“We wish the new owners every success in continuing the Lambarellis tradition, part of our town’s exciting food and drink scene.”

Discover Chesterfield’s fabulous independent food and drink businesses at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/eating-out/

Lambarellis new owners

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Discount bus travel scheme offered to Chesterfield businesses

Chesterfield businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of a scheme which offers discounted public transport for their staff.

Travel Derbyshire is supporting commuting through a Match Discount Scheme. Until March 2025, businesses with workplaces based in Derbyshire can benefit from discounts of up to 20%.

Helping employees to get to the workplace by bus is a great way to improve employee well-being and retention, as well as boosting the environmental credentials of our businesses.

Funded by UK Government through the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), Derbyshire County Council is topping up the existing discount that bus companies offer to businesses, matching what is already offered.

Three companies are signed up to the scheme so far:

  • Diamond Bus
  • Stagecoach
  • trentbarton

Tickets are provided directly to the business by the Bus operator. In Chesterfield, Stagecoach is offering a 10% discount on megarider tickets, for businesses with local employees.  The product covers the urban area of Chesterfield from Hollingwood to Sheepbridge, Upper Newbold and Cutthorpe to Walton.

A 10% discount is also offered on Stagecoach Silver and Gold tickets. Silver tickets cover a wider area than central Chesterfield, including South Yorkshire and south of Chesterfield as far as Kelstedge/ClayCross and Bolsover to the West.  The Gold tickets cover all Stagecoach buses in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.

Councillor Charlotte Cupit, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer this discount on bus travel for employers so they can encourage their workforce to get the bus into work.

“We were awarded £47m to improve bus services, and this initiative is part of our plan to get more people on buses. We’ve also improved a wide range of bus services across the county.”

For more details about the scheme, go to: https://travelderbyshire.co.uk/businesses/

To find out more about business support schemes available to businesses in Chesterfield, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

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Chesterfield Pubwatch shortlisted for national award

A local scheme that aims to provide safe drinking environments for customers and staff has been shortlisted for a national award.

Chesterfield Pubwatch has been named on the shortlist for the top accolade at the National Pubwatch Awards, which will take place on 22 October at the House of Lords.

Chesterfield Pubwatch has been operating for over 22 years and is run by local business owners, with support from Chesterfield Borough Council’s licensing team, Derbyshire Constabulary and other local partners with the aim of supporting a safe environment within the night-time economy.

The scheme’s award submission highlights a number of initiatives that have been rolled out across the town to help provide a safer environment for customers and staff alike – including new ways for venues, police, and the local authority to share information.

Together with Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Pubwatch has delivered an upgraded digital radio communications network across the town – allowing licensed premises to communicate effectively with each other and key stakeholders such as the Police. This system is instrumental in maintaining safety and security in the town.

Additionally, Chesterfield Pubwatch has also supported the launch of the Best Bar None scheme in the town – with 22 local businesses already being awarded the accreditation, which helps to reduce alcohol-related crime and create a safer night out.

Roger Butler, Chair of Chesterfield Pubwatch, said: “Chesterfield is a safe place to live, visit and socialise. We’re lucky to have so many licensed venues for people to enjoy, but like towns and cities around the country, alcohol-related crime and disorder can sometimes be an issue.

“We are delighted to have been named as one of the three Pubwatch schemes on the shortlist for the national award. We’re always looking for new ways to work with local businesses and different groups to take on board any feedback they have and look at different ways we can all work together to reduce nuisance behaviour, so that everyone can enjoy a safe night out.”

Councillor Steve Lismore, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Chesterfield Pubwatch continues to work tirelessly across our communities to reduce anti-social behaviour, and it is great to see that their efforts have been recognised by being shortlisted for the National Pubwatch Award.

“Chesterfield is a safe place to socialise, but the work of the Pubwatch helps to make sure everyone can feel safe when out and about.”

Planning a night out in Chesterfield? Find out more about how you can make the most of it at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/places-to-visit/night-out/

brampton brewey pub

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SocialFuse Festival to focus on community-led regeneration in Chesterfield

A festival coming to Chesterfield next week is set to celebrate the way our communities are playing their part in the ongoing regeneration of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

The SocialFuse Festival, taking place across various venues in our town is an annual flagship event that gathers a diverse group of purpose-driven individuals, change-makers, and innovators from Derbyshire and beyond.

The festival, taking place from Tuesday 10 September  – Saturday 14 September, serves as a platform to celebrate and inspire positive social, environmental, and economic change. It is designed to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and ignite action among those who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and the world.

Organiser of the festival, Ann Fomukong-Boden is director of local design consultancy, Kakou Technologies and a Destination Chesterfield Board Member.

Ann Fomukong-Boden

Speaking about what participants can expect at this year’s festival, Ann commented: “Overall, this year’s SocialFuse Festival aims to be a catalyst for positive change by inspiring, connecting, and empowering individuals who are passionate about making a difference.

“Highlighting the work of community and voluntary sectors and the people working in them is essential for recognising their contributions, inspiring further involvement, building strong networks, attracting support, influencing policy, celebrating diversity, and promoting sustainable social change. These sectors are the backbone of community resilience and well-being, and their recognition is vital for a more inclusive and supportive society.”

Several developments are currently underway across Chesterfield, and Ann believes the upcoming event provides an opportunity to highlight the impact of involving the community sector: “We are currently going through a period of regeneration – locally in Chesterfield with the town centre revitalisation plans, regionally with a new Combined Authority and Mayor, and nationally with the new government.

“By highlighting the importance of a holistic, community-led approach and showcasing successful examples, the event seeks to empower individuals, businesses, and voluntary groups to actively participate in and contribute to the regeneration of their community. Through collective efforts, Chesterfield can become a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive place that reflects the aspirations and needs of its people.”

“Regeneration requires input and collaboration between all stakeholders. The Festival wants to highlight the importance of partnerships and how different sectors can work together to achieve shared goals.

“SocialFuse isn’t just about work; it’s also about celebrating our community and having a good time! The Festival offers a chance to relax, enjoy, and connect with others who share your passion for making a positive impact. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet new people, discover new ideas, and find inspiration for your own projects and initiatives.

“And the best part? Thanks to our wonderful sponsors and collaborators, all the events are free to attend. This means that everyone in the community can join in, regardless of their financial situation. We want to ensure that the SocialFuse Festival is accessible to all, so come along, bring your friends and family, and be part of this exciting event.”

Find out more about the events and activities taking place as part of the SocialFuse Festival on our event listing.

Kakou Technologies supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Attendees at festival sat around table watching presentation

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Bottle & Thyme toasts opening night success at Elder Way

Chesterfield’s award-winning independent bar and restaurant, Bottle & Thyme has made the move to Elder Way. The move has created six new jobs and prompted seven-day opening for the business.

The family-owned and run business has transformed the flagship corner unit of the former Co-op department store on Elder Way into a restaurant, private function room which seats up to 40 people, and bar, with additional outdoor space for dining and drinking.

The new function area, The Glass Room, hosted a wedding on the first night of opening and is already fully booked throughout September.

A 10-year lease on the 3,153 sq ft unit was agreed with Jomast in June. Since then, the frontage and interior of the unit have undergone a complete transformation.

The relocation to Elder Way has tripled the size of the business. The separate bar area has enabled owners Hannah and Gavin Grainger to expand Bottle & Thyme’s wine and cocktail menu. And just a month before opening, the couple welcomed baby Ellis to their family.

Gavin explained: “Because of the size of the unit we have been able to zone it internally which has ensured that it still feels intimate. It looks fantastic. Hannah and I are delighted at how everything has gone. The move has been really well received by our customers. We’ve had lots of bookings for the restaurant and function room. We’ve really hit the ground running.”

The new private function area, known as The Glass Room, caters for functions of up to 30 guests, Hannah explained: “Being located a short walk from the town hall, there is high demand for micro weddings, and this is already showing in the number of booking we have taken for The Glass Room. It’s a lovely space and something which Chesterfield didn’t have.”

Mark Hill, Jomast’s Commercial Property Director said: “We are delighted to welcome Bottle & Thyme to Elder Way. Hannah and Gavin have transformed the flagship corner unit of this iconic building, helping further bring our joint vision to life. Together with neighboring tenants, Premier Inn and Hotpod Yoga, Bottle & Thyme are creating a new leisure and hospitality quarter in the heart of Chesterfield. It is a very exciting time for this iconic site, and we are talking to a number of future potential tenants keen to take advantage of all that the town and the building can offer their businesses.”

Gavin and Hannah now plan to add further to Chesterfield’s food and drink offering. They have retained Bottle & Thyme’s former location on Knifesmithgate. The premises are now undergoing a. transformation into a charcuterie, cheese and wine bar, called Elder, which will open later this year.

The relocation of Bottle & Thyme to Elder Way follows the opening of Hotpod Yoga in Unit 7 in April earlier this year.

Chris Wilkinson, owner of Hotpod Yoga Chesterfield, said: “Everything is going really well with the unit and business. The location is brilliant. We get lots of walk-ins and enquiries from people who are passing. It’s brilliant to welcome another business to the Elder Way. There’s a really supportive business community developing here. We are already working with Bottle & Thyme on events for later in the year.”

Five units now remain available at Elder Way with joint agents WSB Property and FHP, reporting strong interest from a number of operators.

For enquiries or further information about the units, visit www.elderway.co.uk.

To find out more about commercial property opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

man sat at table wearing smart casual clothing outside cafe

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Chair’s Blog: It has been a pleasure to update you on Chesterfield’s progress

This is my final blog as Destination Chesterfield Chair

For over a decade, I’ve loved writing about our town’s successes, wonderful people, and the challenges we’ve tackled together. However, it’s time to step down from my voluntary role as Chair of Destination Chesterfield.

In 2010, the UK began to recover from a global financial crisis, online shopping gained momentum, and Chesterfield FC still played on the hallowed turf of Saltergate! That year, my company sought planning permission for Chesterfield Waterside beside Chesterfield Railway Station, aiming to revitalise the old Trebor factory site, creating jobs and homes.

Today, the new office block, One Waterside Place, houses several thriving companies, and all spaces are occupied. Additionally, hundreds of families now call Waterside Quarter their home.

waterside place

New business spaces have emerged at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre in the town centre and The Glass Yard opposite the SMH Group Stadium—both near full occupancy.

We’ve also become a town of experiences. New restaurants opened across town, including at the Batch House within The Glass Yard – Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked bread when walking in there? The award-winning, independent, four-star Casa Hotel also stands as a point of pride, serving local produce and providing excellent facilities.

Last year, we began revamping the iconic Stephenson Memorial Hall. I eagerly await the contemporary home for our Pomegranate Theatre and Chesterfield Museum, enabling our town to host bigger and better shows and exhibitions.

This summer, we began modernising our market to attract diverse traders and highlight our 19th Century Town Pump. We look forward to a more accessible town centre with a flexible market space for events, friends, and family.

New layout for Chesterfield Market with contemporary stalls, heritage colours, Market Hall in the background, town pump a feature

Market Square Chesterfield – artist’s impression

Staveley is also set for transformation. New seating, lighting, paving for the town centre, and a new pavilion building will modernise the area to bring our communities together and support high streets.

It hasn’t all been sunshine and roses though… who could have predicted a global pandemic?! Despite challenges, our town’s ‘can-do’ attitude shines through. Positivity from businesses, the public sector, volunteers, and residents has helped us adapt to change.

Chesterfield boasts wonderful landmarks, history, and a great quality of life. But above all, I’ve learned that Chesterfield’s greatest asset is its people.

Thank you for sharing that passion far and wide. My final message: keep shouting about Chesterfield. We all want our town to become an even better place to visit, live, work, and invest. Let’s do this together as a community.

It has been a pleasure to update you on Chesterfield’s progress. I look forward to reading the views of our new voluntary board members at Destination Chesterfield in future articles. While I no longer lead as Chair, I will continue to play my part in securing our town’s positive future.

Pete.

Man in blue shirt smiling for camera in front of light background

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Derbyshire selected to take part in multi-million-pound workplace health pilot

Chesterfield business owners can access free health checks for their staff, after Derbyshire County Council received funding to deliver a pilot project.

These lifesaving checks help improve the health and wellbeing of employees, prevent serious health conditions from developing as well as help people stay in employment for longer.

The council has been successful in bidding for £36,000 of funding which will be used to run free NHS Health Checks and Live Life Better Derbyshire MOT plus in workplaces across the county.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Communities Councillor Carol Hart said: “By identifying risk factors such as high blood pressure early, we can help people to get the support and treatment they need to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and avoid heart attacks and strokes.

“In turn this helps people to live well for longer as well as helping to boost our local economy.”

Every year, more than 1.3 million people in England take part in an NHS Health Check and this helps prevents an estimated 300 premature deaths.

Evidence shows that the age of people having cardiovascular disease (CVD) events such as strokes and heart attacks is getting younger, meaning more working age people are now being affected.

Evidence also shows that some groups such as men are less likely to get early help, and by targeting workplaces the council can engage these groups.

Around 1 in 3 people who have a heart attack and 1 in 4 strokes are in people of working age, with a third of stroke survivors not returning to work afterwards.

Derbyshire’s Healthy Workplaces team will be delivering free NHS Health Checks and Live Life Better Derbyshire MOT Plus to workplaces across Derbyshire until March 2025.

A health check lasts up to 45 minutes and is carried out by a trained health advisor.

During the check the advisor will measure cholesterol and glucose levels from a fingertip blood test. They will take blood pressure, height, and weight as well as ask some lifestyle questions.

The advisor will talk about your current health and discuss any early signs of heart disease and other health conditions like stroke, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes or dementia.

Derbyshire business owners can arrange free health checks for their staff.

Medical student carrying out checks on volunteer patient

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New hires for two Chesterfield manufacturers

Two Chesterfield manufacturing businesses have announced new appointments, further strengthening their teams.

Jessica Blaney has joined Chesterfield-based Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings.

She has joined the long-standing family owned business as a sales administrator, bringing over 15 years of experience within construction and sales administration to Pinelog.

In her new role, Jessica will be supporting Pinelog’s busy sales team in managing customer enquiries and ensuring a seamless experience for clients from their initial contact through to the completion of their luxury timber lodge purchase.

Jessica joins Pinelog from the hospitality industry where she worked as a General Manager. Prior to working in hospitality Jessica worked for a large building material supplier of sustainable materials for 14 years. The role at Pinelog has enabled Jessica to return to an industry she knows and loves as well as have a better work life balance now that she has a young daughter.

She explained: “The job role at Pinelog sounded amazing and was exactly what I was looking for. Pinelog is a fantastic family-run local business, and it’s wonderful to be part of a tight-knit team again. I’m absolutely loving it. It’s a great environment to work in.”

Nick Grayson, Chairman of Pinelog Group, welcomed Jessica to the team, saying, “We are delighted to have Jessica join us. Her extensive experience in sales administration and her enthusiasm for the industry make her a great addition to our growing team.”

Jessica is the latest addition to Pinelog’s sales team headed by Judy Barwell. Earlier this year Lucy Wood re-joined the team as sales manager following a seven year career break to raise her young family. Pinelog prides itself on its parent-friendly work environment across the company, including its manufacturing facility in Chesterfield.

Pinelog, now in its fiftieth year, relocated to a larger site in Chesterfield which has facilitated an increase in production capacity, allowing for greater innovation and efficiency in their manufacturing process.

Elsewhere, Superior Wellness has announced the appointment of Magda Paradell as their new International Sales Manager. She joins them with over 15 years’ experience in the wellness sector.
Magda’s previous role was Export Area Manager at Aquavia Spa (one of Europe’s largest spa manufacturers) where she spent almost 16 years.

Magda spent 7 years as back office and customer service before moving in sales where she was Export Area Manager for 8 years. She specialised in B2B sales of hot tubs in a wide number of European markets including France, Belgium, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal and Italy. She holds a Tourism degree by the University of Manresa, and a Sales and Marketing Master by EAE Business School of Barcelona.

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director said: “Our sales team is growing rapidly to support the growth of the company. I am thrilled that Magda has joined the European Sales team.
“Her experience will be invaluable, she’s an outstanding addition to our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with her.”

Magda Paradell said: “It is with great pleasure I join the Superior Wellness team. This is a global company in a state of continuous evolution, boasting significant production capacity and an extensive array of highly competitive products.

“In addition to its offerings in the spa sector, the company is diversifying into other related products within the wellness industry. I see this as a remarkable opportunity to pursue professional challenges and to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the organisation.”

Pinelog Ltd and Superior Wellness support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Magda superior wellness

 

 

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We Are Spaces attains prestigious CIOB accreditation

A Chesterfield business specialising in commercial interior design and workspace transformation has received prestigious accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Building.

CIOB is the leading international professional body for those working in and leading the construction industry. Established in 1834, it offers a range of services including membership, professional development, qualifications, and resources to support individuals and organisations in shaping the future of the built environment, driving innovation, sustainability, and ethical practices.

The accreditation is the latest in a string of successes for We Are Spaces, having recently expanded into larger office premises at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

Amy Revell, Co-Founder and Director at We Are Spaces explained the importance of the firm’s latest achievement: “We are one of the few fit out contractors to achieve this prestigious accreditation in the UK. Being awarded CIOB accreditation shows that as an organisation, we have demonstrated high levels of competence, commitment and excellence, whilst fostering a collaborative culture where ideas and expertise are shared to achieve the best outcomes.”.

“Our CIOB accreditation gives our clients confidence our standards are high, and our ability to successfully deliver is robust. Our accreditation also helps to attract likeminded and highly skilled individuals to join our growing team.

In terms of the company’s further growth, Amy added: “We’ve got a firm business plan for the next 5 years and sustainable growth is a key goal, ensuring we grow at an appropriate rate, with the best people in our industry.

“We’re looking to nationally grow our three key businesses within the group. They are We Are Spaces, our interior fit-out business, We Are FM which specialises in facilities management, and We Are Interiors which focuses on commercial interior and external decorating and specialist finishes.”

Andy Dabbs, Destination Chesterfield Board Member and Chair of the town’s Property and Construction Group added: “It’s so pleasing to see We Are Spaces achieving CIOB accreditation and continuing to grow and thrive in our town.

“The property and construction sector plays a huge role in creating jobs and improving the built environment in Chesterfield. The continued growth of our businesses will enable the town to attract further investment and create more opportunities in our local economy.”

We Are Spaces supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Amy We Are Spaces COIB Certificate

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Several Chesterfield Champions named as finalists for Derbyshire Business Awards

A number of Chesterfield Champion businesses have been listed amongst the finalists for the prestigious Derbyshire Business Awards, hosted by East Midlands Chamber.

The Champions included in the list of nominations include Global Brands Ltd, SDE Group, Shed Grounds Maintenance, Dalton Roofing, KranLee Logistics, DBC Training, EcoTech Engineers and Geeks Headquarters.

Finalists were revealed at the President’s Summer Celebration on 21st August. Finalists were selected by a panel of judges made of sponsors and senior management at East Midlands Chamber.

East Midlands Chamber President Stuart Dawkins said: “When I look at the people and organisations that have entered or been fortunate enough to become finalists for this year’s East Midlands Business Awards I’m blown away by the calibre and talent. The quality of entries was exceptionally high and I’m sure the judging panels had some tough decisions to make as the shortlist was compiled.

“To host today’s Summer Celebration was a proud moment; it’s been wonderful to see so many influential and inspirational people in one place. The East Midlands business community is strong and when I see so many leaders, rising talent, apprentices, and innovative people all in one place, I’m reminded why the region is a Centre of Trading Excellence. While announcing the finalists is exciting, it’s the sharing of ideas that means everyone at an event like this gains.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the finalists that were revealed today at the Business Awards which are not too far away now. Even if not a finalist, the opportunity to be among so many businesses and to converse with them is really worthwhile so for anyone that hasn’t yet booked to attend, I’d urge them to do so.”

Nick Catt, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “It is fantastic to see so many of our Chesterfield Champions nominated as finalists in these prestigious awards.

“The East Midlands Chamber business awards showcase the best companies across our region, and to see so many fantastic companies growing and thriving in our town is very pleasing.

“Congratulations to all businesses nominated, and we wish you the best of luck at the Awards on the 25th October.”

chamber business awards 2023 rose cottage

Business Improvement Through Technology

  • DevTank
  • Defib4Life
  • Global Brands Ltd

Community Impact Award

  • SPATIAL Careers Service
  • Royal School for the Deaf
  • E Safety Training
  • Derby Theatre
  • AtkinsRéalis

Outstanding Growth Award

  • Longbow Venues
  • Alphageek
  • Enicor
  • SDE Group
  • Valve & Process Solutions

Excellence in Collaboration

  • TecInteractive | Blueprint Interiors
  • Derby Theatre | Derby City Council Volute |
  • Tomato Energy | Cleeve School & Sixth Form
  • Railston & Company | GEV Wind Power

Environmental Impact Award

  • Shed Grounds Maintenance
  • DevTank Ltd
  • Cosy Direct
  • Purpose Media
  • Tomato Energy

Commitment to People Development Award

  • Dalton Roofing
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Pennine Healthcare
  • Sky Recruitment Solutions
  • Longbow Venues

Education and Business Partnership Award

  • DBC Training
  • University of Derby | Rolls Royce Submarines
  • Royal School for the Deaf
  • Hardy Signs
  • Derby Theatre | Saint Ralph Sherwin Trust

Apprentice of the Year

  • Jessica Mitchell, EMA Training
  • Amber Whitby, Pentaxia
  • Sarah Illsley, Pentaxia
  • Amie-Jayne Knight, Sky Recruitment Solutions

Entrepreneur of the Year

  • Rob Hattersley, Longbow Venues
  • Elaine Penhaul, Lemon & Lime Interiors
  • Laura Holland, EcoTech Engineers
  • Katy Upton, Fortitude Nicsa

Excellence in Customer Service

  • Anoki
  • Longbow Venues
  • Radisson Blu East Midlands Airport
  • KJB Toolhire
  • Ascentant Accountancy

Excellence in International Trade

  • Global Brands
  • Valve & Process Solutions
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Altek Europe

Small Business of the Year

  • Thompson Tree Services
  • Geeks Headquarters
  • Bluebell Dairy
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Astute Recruitment

Excellence in Innovation

  • Gordon Ellis & Co
  • Brilliant Ideas
  • Tomato Energy

Business of the Year

  • To be announced at the award ceremonies
Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

RA Information Systems announces transition to employee ownership

RA Information Systems, a Chesterfield software company and IT solutions provider, has announced its transition to an employee-owned business through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

The company announced: “We are delighted to transition to an Employee Ownership Trust, a move that reflects our commitment to sustaining the company’s independence and recognising the invaluable contributions of our employees. This decision not only secures the future of our business but also honours the legacy of our founders by preserving the unique culture that has defined RA Information Systems for over three decades.

An EOT is particularly well-suited to RA Information Systems’ business model, where people are at the heart of its success. By placing ownership in the hands of those who contribute most, The company is aligning its structure with its long-term vision and values. This transition allows the firm to continue providing the high level of service which clients have come to expect while giving something back to dedicated colleagues.

The Trustee of the RA Information Systems EOT Limited now owns 100% of the company shares. The initial Trustee Directors include Rob Dabbs, Helen Hadfield, and Rachel Judge, who will oversee the trust and ensure that it continues to serve the best interests of the employees and the business.

There will be no immediate changes to the day-to-day management of the company. The founding family—Rob, Annette, and Jon Dabbs—will continue to be actively involved, ensuring continuity and stability. The firm is confident that this new ownership structure will provide the stability, depth of management knowledge, and quick decision-making necessary to support customers well into the future.

Rob Dabbs, Trustee Director at RA Information Systems, commented: “This transition to an Employee Ownership Trust is a natural evolution for our company. It ensures that our values are safeguarded while maintaining our unique culture. For our customers, it’s business as usual—we remain committed to delivering excellence, with the same dedication and passion that has always been at the core of RA Information Systems.”

RA Information Systems supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

RA Information Systems land

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