Member News Subjects

Bradford students win global satellite competition

Students from the University of Bradford have been named among the global winners of a prestigious international satellite engineering competition, beating teams from around the world and becoming the only UK team ever selected in the challenge’s history. The multidisciplinary student team was chosen as one of five global winners of the IEEE Geoscience and…

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Core Telecom nominated for Charitable Business of the Year at Yorkshire Choice Awards

We’re thrilled to announce that Core Telecom has been nominated for Charitable Business of the Year at the Yorkshire Choice Awards 2026. This nomination is a tremendous honour and reflects the heart of what we do every day. At Core Telecom, giving back isn’t just something we do — it’s who we are. We’re proud…

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New study reveals ancient Doggerland started sinking 10,000 years ago

Scientists have uncovered new evidence showing how Doggerland – the vast prehistoric landscape that once connected Britain to mainland Europe – was gradually overwhelmed by rising seas at the end of the last Ice Age.  Carbon dating on new core samples taken from the North Sea suggests its demise began around 10,000 years ago with rising sea levels due to melting…

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New Business Doctor brings growth support for West & North Yorkshire Chamber members

Business Doctors is delighted to announce the appointment of Alastair Stewart as its new Business Doctor for North Yorkshire. With over four decades of experience in sales, business development, and strategic leadership, Alastair will bring deep expertise and a fresh, hands‑on approach to supporting SMEs across the region. A proven track record, now channelled into…

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Resilient City Cruises York passes 200,000 passengers following 2025 growth

Passenger growth, product innovation and partnerships drive strong 2025 for City Cruises York despite a challenging year. Following a successful start to 2025, including being crowned ‘Best of York’ at the Visit York Tourism Awards, City Cruises York has reported a 14.5% year-on-year increase in passengers. The operator welcomed over 200,000 passengers for only the…

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Bradford BID launches inaugural Member Awards celebrating the city’s business community

Bradford Business Improvement District (BID) has today announced the launch of its inaugural Bradford BID Member Awards, a brand-new celebration recognising the innovation, resilience and excellence of local businesses in the city centre. The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 25th June 2026 at the iconic Bradford Live, bringing together businesses from across the retail,…

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Browse the region’s best independent crafts at White Rose’s Yorkshire Market

White Rose Shopping Centre invites guests to shop local as R.S.H Artisan Markets brings a new Yorkshire Market to the centre every month, showcasing an assortment of handmade crafts and gifts. Taking place in the Central Atrium the first weekend of each month between February and October, visitors can support local businesses and find truly…

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Freight Island announced as new operator ahead of Trinity Kitchen’s £15m expansion

Trinity Leeds has revealed that Freight Island, the team behind the UK’s leading food hall and entertainment venue, will operate the expanded Trinity Kitchen – delivering a one-of-a-kind destination and an unrivalled food hall experience to Leeds.  Since launching in 2013, Trinity Kitchen has redefined the traditional food court model by pioneering an authentic indoor…

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Universal AV Services proudly presents Connex 2026 – Bringing the future of workplace technology to Leeds

Universal AV Services is proud to present Connex 2026, the North of England’s leading workplace technology event, returning to Leeds to showcase the very latest in audio visual and collaboration solutions for modern working environments. Taking place at the Marriott Hotel, Leeds on March 12th, Connex has long been a must-attend event for organisations looking…

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Carbon Neutral Group lists sector net zero readiness in Hospitality, FMCG, Manufacturing, Logistics and Retail

Carbon Neutral Group, who work with organisations to build actionable net zero roadmaps, grounded in robust carbon accounting and operational change, has reviewed industry sectors and their road in sustainability, specifically those who are leading the way to becoming net zero, by examining their decarbonisation progress across five major industries. When it comes down to…

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7 Essential Copilot Updates Businesses Need to Understand in 2026

Microsoft Copilot has already rolled out a series of updates that subtly but significantly change how work happens across Microsoft 365. Individually, some of these changes may appear incremental or technical. Taken together, they signal something much bigger: Copilot is evolving from a helpful assistant into an embedded intelligence layer across everyday business activity. Below…

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Product Partnership Ltd acquires Think Compliance

Retail compliance expert Product Partnerships Ltd (PPL) has bought a majority stake in Think Compliance, a specialist consultancy which provides compliance support and Regulatory Data Reporting services to Consumer Credit and Claims Management regulated firms across the UK. Rebecca Wilson, shareholder of Leeds-based Think Compliance, was advised on the acquisition by Yorkshire-based commercial law firm Schofield…

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MP for Colne Valley visits Kirklees College Engineering and Process Manufacturing centres

Friday 23 January saw Paul Davies, MP for Colne Valley, visit the Kirklees College Engineering and Process Manufacturing centres. As part of the visit, discussions took place between Paul and Kirklees College staff, which included Kirklees College Principal & Chief Executive, Palvinder Singh, alongside the Head of Engineering, Michelle Grainger, and the Curriculum Director for…

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LNER London King’s Cross first class lounge to undergo refurbishment

As part of our ongoing commitment to improve station facilities along the route, the First Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station will undergo a major transformation to provide an even more comfortable and welcoming space. While we make these exciting changes, the lounge will unfortunately be closed from Monday 26 January until Spring 2026….

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Leeds Independent Venues Group launches

Leeds Independent Venues Group launches: six independent spaces unite to elevate Leeds as a premier meetings and events destination Six of Leeds’ leading independent venues have joined forces to form the Leeds Independent Venues Group, a new collective created to showcase the city’s diverse event spaces and strengthen its position as a top destination for…

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Wyedean’s skills legacy passes to next generation

More than 40 years of sewing and embroidery experience is being shared with a new generation as a giant of the military Colours and Standards ceremonial items retires. Aileen Henderson, embroidery supervisor at Haworth-based Wyedean Weaving, is stepping down after 46 years in the textile industry. Aileen, who has been awarded an MBE in the…

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ATM Hospitality run with the Bulls in 2026

Bradford Bulls are proud to announce a new partnership with ATM Hospitality for the 2026 season. As part of this exciting collaboration, ATM Hospitality’s branding will feature prominently on the sleeves of the Bulls’ playing and replica jerseys, as they return to the Super League. ATM Hospitality stands as a global leader in the event sector, boasting…

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Annual insolvency stats – Yorkshire accountants warn ‘no respite on horizon’

2025 insolvency stats for England and Wales – Azets response There were 23,938 corporate insolvencies in 2025 – 0.2% more than in 2024 (23,880) and 4.9% fewer than in 2023 (25,164) Richard Oddy, a partner, licensed insolvency practitioner and business restructuring, turnaround and rescue expert at accountancy and business advisory group Azets in Yorkshire, said:…

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Footasylum to open Flagship Store at Trinity Leeds

One of the UK’s leading streetwear and sportswear retailers, Footasylum, is set to open a new flagship store at Trinity Leeds. Launching in Spring, the 12,000 sq ft store will bring an expanded product range, innovative retail concepts and bespoke design features to Leeds city centre.  Located opposite Mango, the new store at Trinity Leeds…

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A ‘hole’ lot more fun: White Rose to welcome Volcano Falls Adventure Golf

White Rose Shopping Centre is adding even more entertainment options for guests, with Volcano Falls Adventure Golf set to open later this year. Managed by Funstation, one of the UK’s leading leisure operators, Volcano Falls Adventure Golf will occupy the former Sports Direct unit on The Balcony at White Rose. The brand plans to bring…

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Join workplace wellness leaders, Hussle, for an energising morning of fitness and networking for HR professionals and business leaders

Hussle is the UK’s leading fitness network, collaborating with thousands of amazing venues across the UK to provide simple, flexible access to gyms, pools and spas.  They partner with organisations that value the wellbeing of their employees to enable staff members to access fitness wherever and whenever they want, all as part of one simple…

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Is Stress Eating Holding Your Business Back?

If you’re a business owner, you know the pressure. The decisions that keep you awake at night, the weight of responsibility and the constant demands. You’re working long hours, trying to stay on top of never-ending to-do lists, and you’re wearing numerous hats (in some cases, just to keep your head above water). It’s highly…

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Merrion Centre once again hosts Leeds city centre’s biggest Chinese New Year celebrations for 2026

Vibrant Cultural Festivities Return Following Previous Year’s Success The Merrion Centre in Leeds is set to once again host the city centre’s largest Chinese New Year celebration in 2026, welcoming the Year of the Horse with an exciting programme of cultural performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities. This year’s event, once again supported by the Business Confucius Institute…

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New mural celebrates 30 years of Natural Born Cobblers at the Merrion Centre

Bespoke Mural Celebrates Craft, Creativity and 30 Years of NBC at the Merrion Centre Natural Born Cobblers (NBC) at the Merrion Centre has unveiled striking new bespoke artwork inside its store on the Woodhouse Lane entrance, created by Yorkshire-based mural artist Seran Jordan. The large-scale piece celebrates craftsmanship, independence and the long-standing presence of NBC in…

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Matthew Williamson leads strategy to strengthen corporate fitness offering in the West & North Yorkshire region

Hussle is the UK’s leading fitness network, on a mission to make fitness flexible, accessible, and affordable for employees as part of one simple corporate benefit. They collaborate with thousands of fantastic venues across the UK, and Yorkshire is one of its most widely served areas, with a fantastic range of leading gyms, pools and…

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5 simple ways to introduce AI into your daily operations

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer reserved for tech giants or futuristic visions, it’s here, and it’s transforming the way businesses operate every day. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), AI offers practical, affordable solutions that can save time, boost productivity, and give you a competitive edge. The good news? You don’t need a…

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Save up to 50% on journeys with TPE as half a million tickets go on sale

Half a million tickets for train journeys across the North of England are up for grabs with 50%-off the cost, TransPennine Express (TPE) has announced. The train operator has slashed the price of select Advance Purchase tickets as part of the nationwide Great British Rail Sale which starts today (Tuesday 6 January) and runs until…

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Poetry in (Loco)motion – LNER Marks Landmark Year for Rail

As 2025 draws to a close, LNER is reflecting on a remarkable year for the rail industry by launching a specially commissioned poem to celebrate the bicentenary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. We Will Carry You weaves together themes of connection, community and journeys. Written by Darlington poet Lizzie Lovejoy, the poem was commissioned…

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Yorkshire Garden Centre Group exceeds its fundraising target

With three months of the ‘Charity Year’ still to go, a Bradford headquartered garden centre group has exceeded its fundraising target by 50%. At the beginning of April, the teams at Yorkshire Garden Centres’ sites in West and North Yorkshire pledged to raise ÂŁ30,000 for Martin House Children’s Hospice, the independent charity that cares for…

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Pop Specs Launches at Trinity Leeds

Trendy eye-wear brand, Pop Specs has officially opened its doors at Trinity Leeds today (18th December), joining the centre’s vibrant retail line-up. Located near Boots and H&M, the new Pop Specs store offers shoppers the chance to shop for trendy glasses. Combining style, comfort and speed, Pop Specs allows customers – with a prescription – to walk…

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Building inclusive businesses. Strengthening our region.

The Institute for Equity University Centre is proud to launch two new networks designed to support the growth of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) across Yorkshire. In a fast-changing business environment, organisations that truly understand their workforce are better placed to attract and retain talent, build trust and ensure colleagues feel valued. Just as importantly,…

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Sommat good is brewing at your local gym in Bradford!

Your exclusive invite – 21st January 2026 at Cedar Court Hotels Bradford. As a valued friend of Cedar Court Hotels, we’re excited to invite you to be a part of our continued growth and redevelopment at Cedar Court Bradford. Join fellow partners, local businesses, and community organisations for an exclusive first look at our new…

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A wonderous festive season at White Rose

The festive season is still in full swing at White Rose Shopping Centre this December, with plenty of reasons to celebrate this Christmas. The centre’s family-friendly ice rink is open until 4th January, with pre-bookable 45-minute sessions taking place every day (except Christmas Day) – the perfect all-weather, all-ages activity. Upcoming events include Friday Disco…

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Innovative construction partnership reaches apprenticeship awards final

A long-standing partnership between Leeds College of Building (LCB) and construction firm BAM has been shortlisted for the 2026 Apprenticeship & Training Awards – one of the most high-profile events in the education sector. The prestigious annual awards recognise those who are shaping a highly skilled, inclusive, and future-ready workforce through their commitment to apprenticeships…

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Bradford College Shortlisted as ‘Apprenticeship Provider of the Year’

Judges have unveiled that Bradford College is a national finalist in the 2026 Apprenticeship & Training Awards. The College is one of 94 entries on the shortlist for the prestigious annual education awards. An independent panel of expert judges assessed over 650 nominations in total, from employers, training providers, colleges and universities. Winners will be…

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Global firm renews sponsorship

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce leading global professional services firm AON has renewed its sponsorship ahead of our return to Super League in 2026. The sponsorship deal is part of Aon’s commitment to making a positive difference in the local community and the investment will once again see Aon branding feature prominently on the…

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Castle Howard and Brew York create bespoke beer to celebrate Oz Christmas extravaganza

Castle Howard and Brew York have collaborated on a unique beer for the festive season celebrating the stately home’s Wizard of Oz Christmas experience. ‘No Place Like Home’, a Hazy Session IPA with a citrus character and floral notes, is brewed at Brew York’s Osbaldwick location and stocked exclusively at Castle Howard for the duration…

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Bradford Buy-to-Let 2025: Performance, Forecasts and Why Investors Are Paying Attention

Yorkshire continues to establish itself as one of the strongest-performing property regions in the UK. The latest analysis from our regional insights report shows that several Yorkshire districts have significantly outperformed national averages, and the most recent Savills Residential Forecast places Yorkshire and the Humber as the number one region in the UK for projected…

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AI Readiness for Microsoft Customers

AI Readiness for Microsoft Customers Data, Governance, Strategy and Adoption That Works AI isn’t just turning on Microsoft Copilot. Sustainable success starts with clean data, strong governance, and a clear strategy followed by careful training and adoption with small pilot groups. Why This Matters Businesses that prepare properly: • Reduce risk and avoid compliance issues…

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Castle Howard’s Christmas events to star in Channel 4 documentary series

Castle Howard’s Christmas events will feature in a new Channel 4 documentary series, ‘A Very British Christmas’. The programme is a three-part series following designers Adrian Lillie and Charlotte Lloyd Webber from CLW Event Design as they create festive experiences for iconic British stately homes, with one episode dedicated to Castle Howard’s extravaganza. The Castle…

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Season’s eatings: Trinity Kitchen welcomes a new street food lineup this festive season

Trinity Kitchen has welcomed a host of new street-food vendors, ready to tantalise tastebuds in the run up to Christmas. From Mac & Cheese and loaded Chicken Nuggets and Tater Tots to succulent burgers and slow-cooked spicy Birria tacos, guests are in for a truly indulgent treat. Christmas favourite Nelly’s Barn is back alongside the much-loved Big Mouth…

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Bradford College launches new academy for creative skills

The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, officially opened Bradford College’s new skills development space for the creative leaders of tomorrow. ‘The Producing Academy’ is an exciting new facility designed to nurture the wave of creative talent needed across West Yorkshire, helping to position the region as a national powerhouse for the creative industries. Covering…

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Accu fasteners part of world first marine seagrass harvester

Precision engineering component distributor Accu has collaborated with Tandem Ventures, an organisation which specialises in science, technology and conservation innovations, and Project Seagrass, a marine conservation organisation, in the development of the world’s first underwater seagrass harvester. Seagrass thrives in vast meadows in sheltered coastal waters and these ocean meadows are known as the lungs…

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Head of Strategic Partnerships reacts to Autumn Budget

Andy Clarke, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Ahead Partnership: “We welcome the additional information provided around the Youth Guarantee in today’s budget. With more than one million young people currently NEET and national productivity still lagging, this type of targeted investment is essential. The Prime Minister has talked about putting apprenticeships on an equal footing…

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Introducing Hospitable Automation

Are your floors really clean? Could a robot meet and greet your customers? Hospitable Automation is on the move across the UK, showcasing the future of service — our innovative cleaning and meet and greet/event guidance robots. Our mission isn’t to replace people, but to enhance the guest experience, delight families, and empower teams by…

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Leeds College of Building named UK leader in staff health & wellbeing

Leeds College of Building (LCB) has been recognised as one of the best UK employers after winning the ‘Health & Wellbeing’ category at The Personnel Awards 2025. The 27th national awards celebrate the vital work of HR and Learning & Development teams and showcase the very best achievements of the profession. Almost 900 guests and leaders…

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Town Centre Securities PLC acquires prime retail asset on Marylebone High Street, London W1

Strengthening TCS’s Portfolio with a High-Quality Marylebone Asset Leeds-based Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) announces the off-market acquisition of 68–69 Marylebone High Street, London W1, a high-quality retail property located in one of the capital’s most desirable and resilient retail and residential districts. The property comprises two ground and basement retail units, let to high-end…

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Online auction launches to support Tiny Lives Appeal

York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity has launched an online auction to help raise funds for the Tiny Lives Appeal, supporting the Neonatal Unit at York Hospital. Local businesses and supporters have shown incredible generosity by supporting the appeal which launched earlier this month to support premature babies and their families. This year, the charity hopes…

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