BusinessIn Wales

Construction, Energy, Manufacturing, Public Sector & Government, Sustainability & Environment, Technology & Innovation, Transport & Infrastructure

Celtic Freeport unveils five-year growth strategy to drive investment and jobs

Celtic Freeport unveils five-year growth strategy to drive investment and jobs Celtic Freeport unveils five-year growth strategy to drive investment and jobs Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  The Celtic Freeport has published its first Five-Year Plan, setting out ambitions to attract investment, support industrial growth and position South and West Wales as a major centre for clean energy, advanced manufacturing and engineering. The strategy outlines how the Freeport intends to accelerate development across key growth sectors, including low-carbon fuels, floating offshore wind, clean energy manufacturing and advanced engineering, while supporting businesses to decarbonise and expand. Covering sites in Milford Haven and Port Talbot, the Celtic Freeport is a public-private sector partnership involving Associated British Ports, Camplas, Dragon LNG, Impala, Ledwood Mechanical Engineering, Neath Port Talbot Council, the Port of Milford Haven, RWE and Pembrokeshire County Council. The Freeport was established to attract new investment into the region through a package of tax incentives, customs benefits and infrastructure support designed to encourage business growth and inward investment. Cathy Hall, Interim CEO of the Celtic Freeport, said: “This Five-Year Plan sets out how the Celtic Freeport will support businesses across the region to decarbonise, grow and access new opportunities. We will be focussing on delivering projects to consolidate the region’s strong industrial future.” Over a 25-year period, the Celtic Freeport is projected to attract more than £8 billion of investment and support the creation of 11,500 jobs across South and West Wales. Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Charities Special, Manufacturing

Clogau donates diamond-set Welsh gold necklace for Cancer Research Wales 60th anniversary raffle

Clogau donates diamond-set Welsh gold necklace for Cancer Research Wales 60th anniversary raffle Clogau donates diamond-set Welsh gold necklace for Cancer Research Wales 60th anniversary raffle Daniel Bevan – Editor Image credit: Paul Fears Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Welsh jewellery brand Clogau has donated a diamond-set Welsh gold necklace to support a fundraising campaign marking the 60th anniversary of Cancer Research Wales. The necklace will serve as the top prize in the charity’s inaugural 60th Anniversary Diamond Raffle, which aims to raise funds for cancer research, diagnosis and treatment projects across Wales. The prize was officially unveiled at Clogau’s Cardiff store by Cancer Research Wales ambassador and Miss United Kingdom Millie-Mae Adams, who accepted the necklace on behalf of the charity. Cancer Research Wales, the country’s independent cancer research charity, is celebrating six decades of supporting scientific innovation and advancements in cancer care. Ben Roberts, Managing Director of Clogau, said: “We are incredibly proud to support Cancer Research Wales as it celebrates this remarkable 60-year milestone. “As a Welsh business with deep roots in our communities, we recognise the impact cancer has on families across the country and the importance of investing in research that can save and improve lives.  “We hope this beautiful Welsh gold necklace will help generate significant support for the raffle and encourage people to get behind the charity’s vital work.” The raffle forms part of a wider programme of anniversary fundraising activities designed to support future research projects in Wales. Millie-Mae Adams, a doctor in training and founder of youth first aid charity Exeter Street Doctors, said: “As a proud ambassador of the charity, it is my privilege to play my part in Cancer Research Wales’s 60th anniversary and be here today to unveil the first prize in the 60 Anniversary Diamond Raffle – a stunning, diamond-set gold necklace, generously donated by Clogau. “The gift of life and time with our loved ones is the most precious thing in the world so please show your support for Cancer Research Wales’s life-saving and life-prolonging work today by entering the 60 Anniversary Diamond Raffle and you could win this stunning Clogau gold necklace while helping to fund vital cancer research here in Wales.” Adams, who promotes health education through her Medic Millie Mondays social media series, has been a supporter of Cancer Research Wales following her family’s own experiences with cancer. Since its establishment in 1966, Cancer Research Wales has invested more than £41 million in research projects aimed at improving cancer diagnosis, treatment and patient outcomes. Lisa Buckley, Head of Income Generation at Cancer Research Wales, said: “I’m very grateful to Clogau and Millie-Mae Adams for supporting us to launch our 60 Anniversary Diamond Raffle – our first ever raffle, as we celebrate 60 years as the independent Welsh cancer research charity and 60 years of innovation in cancer diagnosis and treatment. “Since 1966, we have invested £41.68 million to push the boundaries of cancer research discoveries here in Wales and we couldn’t have done that without the kindness of the Welsh public and our fantastic business community.  “Thank you for your support over the years and together we will unite Wales against cancer.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Public Sector & Government, Skills & Training, Transport & Infrastructure

Gigabit broadband rollout to transform learning in Blaenau Gwent primary schools

Gigabit broadband rollout to transform learning in Blaenau Gwent primary schools Gigabit broadband rollout to transform learning in Blaenau Gwent primary schools Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Seventeen primary schools in Blaenau Gwent are set to receive gigabit-speed broadband connections as part of a Welsh Government-backed project aimed at improving digital learning and developing future workforce skills. The upgrade will provide internet speeds of up to one gigabit per second, significantly increasing capacity for schools to use online learning platforms, video conferencing, cloud-based applications and interactive teaching tools without disruption. Funded through the Welsh Government’s Tech Valleys programme, the project is being delivered in partnership with Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council and the Shared Resource Service, which provides technology services across the South Wales public sector. The investment builds on existing fibre infrastructure installed through the Public Sector Broadband Aggregation programme, enabling schools to take advantage of faster and more reliable connections. Adam Price MS, Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, said: “This investment builds on the solid foundations already laid through the Public Sector Broadband Aggregation programme, taking the existing fibre network in these schools and unlocking its full potential with gigabit-speed capability. “The difference this makes in the classroom is real and immediate. Lessons are more dynamic, engaging and better equipped to develop the digital skills that young people will need throughout their lives and careers.” The improved connectivity is expected to enhance classroom experiences by supporting resource-intensive digital content and enabling multiple online activities to run simultaneously. The Welsh Government said the project also supports wider ambitions to improve educational outcomes and ensure learners have access to modern digital resources regardless of location. The Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, Anna Brychan MS, said: “This kind of investment — targeted, practical and focused on outcomes — supports our ambition to raise educational standards across Wales. “Young learners in Blaenau Gwent will now have improved classroom experiences with reliable access to richer digital content and immersive experiences. “Ensuring every young person in Wales can access the best possible education, regardless of where they live, is central to everything we are doing as a government. “I’m pleased these increased speeds will enhance in-class learning while also enabling real-time support for learners when they cannot attend school.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Charities Special

How charities can prepare for increased HMRC scrutiny

How charities can prepare for increased HMRC scrutiny How charities can prepare for increased HMRC scrutiny Lee Bradley – Tax Partner, Bevan Buckland Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Charities and not-for-profit organisations are facing increased scrutiny from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), with greater focus on financial governance, compliance procedures, and the correct application of tax reliefs. Through the introduction of Structured Risk Reviews (SRRs), HMRC is expected to examine payroll compliance, VAT returns, Corporation Tax (where applicable), and Gift Aid claims more closely. In this blog, Lee Bradley, Tax Partner at Bevan Buckland, looks at what Structured Risk Reviews could mean for charities, the potential impact of HMRC enquiries, and the practical steps trustees and finance teams should consider to strengthen compliance and reduce risk. Why HMRC Is Increasing Oversight The charity sector continues to play an important role in the UK economy, with more than 170,000 registered charities contributing billions of pounds each year. At the same time, charities are operating in an increasingly challenging environment, with tighter regulation, growing financial pressures and greater expectations around transparency and accountability. Structured Risk Reviews form part of HMRC’s wider compliance activity and are intended to assess whether charities have suitable systems, controls and governance arrangements in place. The reviews are not simply about identifying errors or unpaid tax. They are also designed to give HMRC a clearer understanding of how financial risks are managed within an organisation and the level of oversight being exercised by trustees. As part of the process, HMRC may seek detailed information on payroll procedures, VAT treatment, Gift Aid claims, and, where relevant, Corporation Tax compliance. Organisations may also be asked to demonstrate how financial decisions are reviewed, approved and documented internally. For charities with limited internal finance resources, responding to these requests can be both time-consuming and disruptive, particularly where processes have evolved over time or records are not easily accessible. Areas Charities Should Review Given the increased focus on compliance, now is a sensible time for charities to review key financial procedures and ensure appropriate controls are operating effectively. Areas worth reviewing may include: Gift Aid claims and supporting documentation – ensuring declarations remain valid, records are retained correctly, and claims are fully supported. Even relatively minor administrative errors can lead to delays, adjustments or additional enquiries. Payroll compliance and PAYE procedures – particularly where charities employ a combination of full-time staff, part-time employees and casual workers. Trustees should ensure that benefits, expenses, and pension obligations are treated appropriately. VAT treatment and partial exemption rules – reviewing whether VAT has been applied consistently across charitable and non-charitable activities, and identifying potential risks before they develop into more significant compliance concerns. Financial oversight and internal controls – considering whether reporting lines, approval procedures and internal review processes remain fit for purpose and can demonstrate strong governance if HMRC opens an enquiry. Accounting records and financial documentation – ensuring records are accurate, accessible and up to date so information can be provided efficiently if requested during a compliance review. Investigation insurance and fee protection – considering whether appropriate cover is in place to help manage the professional costs associated with HMRC enquiries and compliance investigations, and speaking with accountants or professional advisers about the options available. The Potential Impact of an HMRC Enquiry Even where no issues are ultimately identified, HMRC enquiries can place considerable pressure on internal teams. Responding to requests for information often requires significant management time, detailed reconciliations and professional support. Professional representation during an enquiry can be particularly valuable where HMRC requests extensive documentation or undertakes a more detailed compliance review. Experienced advisers can help organisations manage communication with HMRC efficiently and ensure information is presented clearly and accurately. Many accountancy firms now offer tax investigation insurance or fee protection services, which can help charities manage the potentially significant professional costs associated with HMRC enquiries and investigations. Preparing for Greater Scrutiny Early preparation can help reduce disruption and allow charities to respond more confidently should HMRC open an enquiry. Organisations that regularly review procedures, maintain accurate records, and strengthen internal controls are generally better positioned to manage compliance checks effectively. As HMRC increases its focus on governance, financial oversight, and the correct application of tax reliefs, trustees and finance teams should ensure compliance remains an ongoing priority rather than a reactive exercise. A proactive approach to payroll, VAT, Gift Aid and wider financial controls can help reduce risk, support good governance and provide reassurance to trustees, funders and stakeholders alike. If you would like to discuss HMRC compliance, charity governance or our investigation insurance, our specialist team can help. Please get in touch by emailing mail@bevanbuckland.co.uk or by calling 01792 410100 to find out more.   Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Tourism & Travel

Cardiff gears up for summer music boom as major concerts drive visitor spending

Cardiff gears up for summer music boom as major concerts drive visitor spending Cardiff gears up for summer music boom as major concerts drive visitor spending Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Cardiff is preparing for one of its busiest summers on record, with more than 30 major concerts set to bring hundreds of thousands of music fans into the city centre and provide a significant boost to local businesses. Business improvement district FOR Cardiff has launched its second annual Summer of Music campaign, aimed at helping visitors navigate the packed programme of events while supporting businesses to capitalise on increased footfall. At least 31 outdoor and stadium concerts are scheduled across Cardiff Castle, Blackweir Fields and Principality Stadium, featuring some of the world’s biggest artists and spanning genres including pop, rock, indie, dance, punk and metal. Cardiff Castle is hosting its largest-ever summer music programme, with 24 nights of live entertainment and more than 80 artists performing between June and August as part of the TK Maxx presents DEPOT Live at Cardiff Castle series. More than 180,000 tickets have already been sold for performances by artists including Katy Perry, Biffy Clyro, Richard Ashcroft, Billy Ocean, MIKA, David Gray, Bastille, McFly, The Streets, Self Esteem, Empire of the Sun, Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter, Two Door Cinema Club and Hollywood Vampires. Meanwhile, Blackweir Fields will stage five major concerts during the second year of the outdoor series, including performances by The Cure, Teddy Swims, Lewis Capaldi and Pitbull. At Principality Stadium, Take That and Metallica are among the headline acts bringing major international tours to the Welsh capital this summer. The economic significance of live music events was highlighted by an independent report examining Cardiff’s 2025 concert programme. The study found that 23 outdoor concerts at Cardiff Castle and Blackweir generated around £25 million of spending outside the venues themselves, excluding travel costs, with around two-thirds of attendees travelling from outside Cardiff. Across the UK, the concerts were estimated to have generated £85 million in economic activity. Visitors spent around £31 million outside concert sites, including £12 million in hospitality venues, £7 million on accommodation and £1.9 million at visitor attractions and leisure facilities. The events also resulted in approximately 40,000 hotel room nights, more than 700,000 visits to hospitality businesses, 63,000 shopping trips and 43,000 taxi journeys. FOR Cardiff said retail data from Beauclair also showed a significant uplift in city-centre spending during the summer concert season, with sales reaching £44.1 million in July 2025, an increase of 15.6 per cent compared with the previous year. The organisation’s Summer of Music campaign will provide visitors and residents with travel information, accessibility guidance and event updates through a dedicated online hub. A separate business guide will offer advice on promotions and marketing opportunities aimed at helping retailers, hospitality operators and leisure businesses benefit from the influx of visitors. Carolyn Brownell, Executive Director at FOR Cardiff, said: “Cardiff has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s leading live music cities, and this summer’s calendar is another powerful reminder of the role major events play in bringing the city centre to life. “These gigs are not only brilliant cultural moments; they are an important economic opportunity for businesses across the city centre. Visitors come into Cardiff to see the artists they love, but they also book hotel rooms, eat and drink in our bars and restaurants, shop, travel around the city and often make a full day or weekend of their visit. “Our Summer of Music campaign is about helping people plan ahead, and enjoy the best possible experience, while giving businesses practical tools to make the most of the increased footfall. “Cardiff’s compact and walkable city centre is a real strength, and we want to ensure the benefits of this exceptional summer are felt as widely as possible.” Nick Saunders, founder of DEPOT Live, said: “One of the things that makes Cardiff such a special place to put on shows is the way the venues sit right at the heart of the city. “Fans are not arriving at an isolated concert site and leaving again; they are spending time in the city centre, staying in hotels, visiting bars and restaurants, shopping and enjoying everything Cardiff has to offer. “We are proud to bring world-class artists to the Welsh capital, but the wider impact matters too. “Working closely with FOR Cardiff and other city partners helps make sure visitors have a brilliant experience and that local businesses are well placed to benefit from the opportunities these events create.” Nick Newman, Area Manager at Croeso Pubs and Chair of Cardiff’s Night Forum said: “Cardiff has a fantastic reputation as an ‘Event City’ and the rise in summer live music events in Cardiff city centre in recent years adds yet another showcase opportunity for our hospitality businesses to ‘wow’ both UK and international visitors. “The promotion and management of these concerts is also testament to the tried and tested partnership working that goes on between Cardiff Council, SW Police, FOR Cardiff and the Night Forum, and this collaboration is what makes these events so successful.” Helen Morgan, Centre Director at St David’s Cardiff, added: “There’s nothing better than when Cardiff is abuzz with the excitement of live music, and our city continues to secure some of the world’s best artists across an incredible range of venues. “Last year we created The Wonder Wall in celebration of the Oasis Live ’25 tour kicking off in Cardiff, a larger-than-life work of art which became a global sensation and a must-visit photo spot for fans through the summer – even securing approval from the band themselves. “Live shows have a positive impact on not just the atmosphere in the city but also the number of guests we see in the centre, both locals and those visiting from further afield. “There have been some brilliant events already this year, and we’re looking forward to seeing what the rest

Food & Drink

Brains Brewery returns to historic Cardiff home with new immersive beer venue

Brains Brewery returns to historic Cardiff home with new immersive beer venue Brains Brewery returns to historic Cardiff home with new immersive beer venue Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Brains Brewery has partnered with Welsh pub operator Breaking Brands to launch an immersive beer experience at its former Cardiff city centre home, bringing brewing back to the historic site more than two decades after production moved elsewhere. The new venue, The Old Brewery, is located in Cardiff’s brewery quarter on St Mary’s Street and occupies the former Ballie Ballerson site.  The project is a collaboration between Brains Brewery, brewing giant Heineken and Breaking Brands director Steve Lewis. Brains operated from the site between 1882 and 1999 before the area was redeveloped into a leisure complex.  The new venue aims to celebrate the brewery’s heritage while creating a modern visitor attraction focused on beer, sport and Welsh culture. Designed as an immersive experience, The Old Brewery will feature interactive storytelling spaces tracing the history of Brains from its founding in the 19th century through to the present day.  Visitors will also be able to take part in guided beer tastings, sensory experiences and explore archival photography and memorabilia linked to Cardiff’s brewing past. The venue will also introduce interactive sporting games to Cardiff, using motion-tracking and smart-net technology to recreate key match-day moments and allow customers to test their rugby and football skills. Alongside its entertainment offering, The Old Brewery will serve Welsh-inspired food and drink menus featuring local suppliers and provide event and community spaces available for hire by local organisations. Nick Payne, Managing Director at Brains Brewery, said: “This collaboration feels really special to us at Brains as it feels like we’re coming home. When Steve approached us with the idea for this venue, we jumped at the chance. “We are very proud of our Cardiff roots, our heritage and how we are still brewing in the city, more than 140 years later.” “I can’t wait to have my first pint of SA pulled from the pumps at The Old Brewery and immerse myself in the art and artefacts we have gathered to celebrate our brewery and our city.” The launch represents the latest investment in Cardiff’s hospitality sector and reflects growing demand for experience-led venues that combine food, drink and entertainment. Steve Lewis of Breaking Brands said: “This site has meant something to Cardiff for decades. Bringing Brains back to the heart of the city just feels right.  “We believe that Cardiff needs a venue like this, a place with history, energy and purpose, and we are very excited to be the ones bringing it to life.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Residential Property

Bellway wins backing for 120-home development on former Bridgend Boys’ Home site

Bellway wins backing for 120-home development on former Bridgend Boys’ Home site Bellway wins backing for 120-home development on former Bridgend Boys’ Home site Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Housebuilder Bellway has moved a step closer to delivering 120 new homes in Bridgend after councillors approved its plans in principle for a residential development on the site of a former boys’ home. Members of Bridgend County Borough Council’s development control committee agreed that planning permission should be granted for the scheme at Craig Y Parcau, subject to the completion of a planning agreement securing contributions towards local infrastructure. The development is proposed on 16 acres of land south of the A48 and will involve the demolition of disused and derelict buildings formerly used as a boys’ home. Existing trees and areas of ancient woodland will be largely retained as part of the scheme. Bellway plans to build 96 homes for private sale, comprising a mix of three, four and five-bedroom properties, alongside affordable housing including one-bedroom apartments and two, three and four-bedroom homes. Daniel Shone, Head of Sales for Bellway Wales, said: “Our proposals for this development have been carefully planned to meet the housing needs of the local community as well as respect the natural environment of the site. “We have worked closely with the local authority, and amended our plans during the process to include a new signalised junction design to serve the development, and to incorporate a bat house among the wildlife features already included in the project. “We will also be providing a new children’s play area within the development for new and existing families in the area to enjoy. “Meanwhile, our financial contributions to improve infrastructure in the area will total more than £1.1 million which will go towards schools for children of all ages, sports pitches, other outdoor recreation facilities and road improvements. “We look forward to finalising the planning agreement which will then allow us to start work to deliver these much-needed new homes.” Under the proposed planning agreement, Bellway will contribute more than £1.1 million towards local services and infrastructure.  This includes £921,140 for education provision, £100,088 for playing pitches, £103,632 for outdoor recreation facilities, £10,000 for public rights of way improvements and £9,500 towards reducing the speed limit on the A48 and installing a new pedestrian crossing near the development. The housebuilder has also incorporated a range of sustainability measures into the plans. Each property will be equipped with an air source heat pump and rooftop solar photovoltaic panels to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Wildlife enhancements form part of the scheme, including bird boxes integrated into homes and trees, a dedicated bat house and the creation of hibernacula and log piles within retained woodland and grassland areas. Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Mergers & Acquisitions

Bale reiterates desire to buy football club with new investment fund

Bale reiterates desire to buy football club with new investment fund Bale reiterates desire to buy football club with new investment fund Rhodri Evans – Senior Journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Wales legend Gareth Bale has reaffirmed his desire to invest into a football club with the launch of a new sports investment fund. Bale has also not ruled out making another bid to buy his hometown club Cardiff City. The former Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid winger had an offer to buy the club from current custodian Vincent Tan rejected last summer. Bale has largely stayed away from top level football since his retirement in January 2023, but has now started a new sports fund in partnership with American private equity firm Juggernaut Capital. The fund says that they intend to invest in teams and leagues in both men’s and women’s sports, not just football. “It’s about being patient, finding the right club, and the right path for us to take,” Bale told US media organisation Front Office Sports. “That doesn’t mean Cardiff is off the table. But I think now we have a bit of time, and will look around.” It is Tan’s long held position that Cardiff is not for sale. The fund, which Bale is launching with private-equity firm Juggernaut Capital Partners, is called Juggernaut Diversified Sports. It will invest in teams and leagues in both men’s and women’s sports, including soccer clubs, as well as youth sports. The geographic focus will be North America and Europe. The size of the fund is unknown, but founder John Shulman said it will be smaller than $1 billion, drawing a contrast between other recently launched megafunds that buy small stakes in pro teams that already have high valuations, and how Juggernaut aims to invest. Shulman teased an upcoming investment in a women’s sports team that he could not yet name. The American businessman added that he and Bale feel they are better prepared to build out a women’s sports platform than many other funds, noting they have already put money into large women’s recreational volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse investments. “We’re within about 60 days of making our first investment into a professional women’s sports team,” Shulman said. Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Mergers & Acquisitions, Recruitment

Sphere Solutions and Kenton Black merge to create national recruitment group

Sphere Solutions and Kenton Black merge to create national recruitment group Sphere Solutions and Kenton Black merge to create national recruitment group Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Specialist recruitment firms Sphere Solutions and Kenton Black have merged in a move designed to strengthen their presence across the UK construction and engineering recruitment market. The deal brings Birmingham-based Kenton Black into the Sphere Solutions group, creating a larger business with expanded geographic coverage and expertise across a range of specialist sectors. Founded in 2004, Sphere Solutions is marking its 21st anniversary this year and has established itself as a major recruiter for the construction industry, with offices across Wales and southern England, including Cardiff, Bristol, Gloucester, Plymouth, Truro, Taunton, Southampton and London. Kenton Black, established in 2008, has built a national reputation in construction, engineering and professional recruitment, operating from its Midlands headquarters and a network of offices across the UK. James Hughes, Managing Director and Founder of Sphere Solutions, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kenton Black into the Sphere family. This is a partnership built on strong alignment in values, sector expertise and long-term vision. “Both businesses share a commitment to delivering high-quality recruitment solutions, and together we are even better positioned to support our clients and candidates. “Having known members of the Kenton Black team for many years, this move is underpinned by trusted relationships and a shared ambition – and we have worked closely with their leadership to ensure strong alignment as we move forward together.” The combined business will offer recruitment services across commercial construction, residential housing, civil engineering and infrastructure, mechanical and electrical (M&E), and retail and fit-out sectors. Aaron Crabtree, Director and Founder of Kenton Black Group, said: “While there was interest from multiple parties, Sphere stood out because of its shared ambition, complementary sector expertise, strong people-first culture and aligned values. “By bringing together Sphere’s established strength in the building and residential sectors with Kenton Black’s recognised expertise in civil engineering, we are creating a business with genuine national scale, enhanced capability and broader reach – with significant opportunities for growth across the UK recruitment market.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

HR & Culture, Technology & Innovation

Specialist Security Co ‘over the moon’ after double-award shortlisting

Specialist Security Co ‘over the moon’ after double-award shortlisting Specialist Security Co ‘over the moon’ after double-award shortlisting Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  A Cardiff-based security firm is “over the moon” after being shortlisted for two awards at the British Security Awards. Specialist Security Co received nominations in the Best Team Award category for the Network Rail South Wales Route Security Team, while Richard Van Den Heede was shortlisted in the Customer Service Excellence Award category. The ceremony, hosted at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, celebrates outstanding achievements, acts of bravery, and innovations across the UK security industry. Organisers say the awards provide an opportunity to showcase excellence, gain national recognition, and stand among the very best in the industry. Rachel Fleri, CEO and founder of Specialist Security Co, said: “We are absolutely over the moon to have been shortlisted for these awards, which highlight the incredible efforts of our workforce. “At Specialist Security, we are more than just a company; we are a community, and everything we’ve achieved to date is thanks to our team.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

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