Several North West architects’ firms have made strides in recent years, the property boom fuelling gradually more ambitious buildings and places. Although the boom’s at an end, the more resourceful firms are still winning commissions. In this feature we’ll be talking to those firms across the region that are continuing to find work – what are the busy sectors and in what locations?
With the economy officially on the way back, are the North West’s office agents dusting off the marketing brochures for a renewed push on the premium spaces in our city centres?
The impending general election is at the forefront of people’s minds as North West plc looks to gain political visibility over the next five years. At a time when the public sector finance is facing one of its toughest challenges yet businesses are seeking to understand what the next UK government will mean for them.
There is a new landscape forming in the region’s banking market. Just 12 months ago, the picture was unclear, with many unwilling to lend to any great degree, and job losses hampering positive progress. But as a degree of confidence begins to return, many of the big guns have been making noises again.
As the 2010 FIFA World Cup approaches, Insider travels to South Africa to explore what’s on offer for international trade opportunists. For many it is a strong market for UK companies, sharing as it does similar financial and legal systems, a business culture where English is the first language, and a time difference never more than two hours different from the UK.
Many businesses have been in the uncomfortable position of having to reduce headcount over the last 18 months and having effective and robust human resources policies has never been more important. But still battles lie ahead, with as many companies expected to struggle as the UK emerges from recession as have done with the economy at rock-bottom.
As the government prepares to cut the budget deficit universities have already had a wake-up call. The Higher Education Funding Council budget has been cut by some £500m for the 2010-11 academic year and institutions are waiting to hear their individual fate.
It’s all change at Stockport Council, where Eamonn Boylan is to take over as chief executive from John Schultz. The council has performed consistently well down the years, but faces challenges in kickstarting development in the town centre – what’s the latest state of play?
The region’s financial and professional services sector is expected to continue growing. Looking at 2009 performance alone, this flagship industry took a battering and is consolidating, but the long-term picture tells a strong story in the North West.
For the vast majority of businesses, the speed at which new developments take place in the digital age can be dazzling. Most of us only need to know the basics – what sort of kit do we need, what’s the best in terms of ability and durability, and what’s the best way of buying it without upsetting the bank manager?
