BGF launched as £2.5bn fund for the provinces

The government's £2.5bn Business Growth Fund (BGF) has been launched in Birmingham with a promise from business secretary Vince Cable that the fund - intended to provide much needed finance for small businesses - will have a strong emphasis on provincial Britain. BGF will invest between £2m and £10m per business in return for a minimum ten per cent equity stake and a seat on the board.

Mobile trends

Jonathan Wall, e-commerce director at Shop Direct, highlights the future trends in mobile technology that could reshape the high street and change the face of retail.

Pattonair sold for £146m

Leamington Spa-based Umeco has sold its Pattonair division for £145.8m. The engineer said the deal was struck as it wanted to concentrate on the composites side of the business.

Poundland gets double at private equity awards

Budget retailer Poundland has picked up two management awards from the British Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (BVCA).

Waitrose garden centre plans submitted

A redevelopment involving a Waitrose store is being lined up for the Percy Thrower garden centre in Shrewsbury. The garden centre's owner, Garden & Leisure Group, has submitted plans to Shropshire County Council for approval.

Ephraim Phillips factory finds new owner

The former Ephraim Phillips factory in Digbeth has been sold to a private investor. The Birmingham office of Jones Lang LaSalle completed the sale of the site, which spans more than 43,000 sq ft.

Chalcroft Construction flies high despite downturn

Worcestershire-based Chalcroft Construction has revealed turnover was stronger than expected for the 2010/11 financial year, despite a general downturn in the construction industry.

Sales up at Mitchells & Butlers

Birmingham-based Mitchells & Butlers has continued the trend of a slow recovery in West Midlands pubcos with a 4.2 per cent increase in sales, it revealed this morning. Overall sales rose 4.2 per cent for the 28 weeks to 9 April, with food sales outstripping drink sales for the first time at the company.

Gateley unveils promotions drive

Law firm Gateley has made 12 promotions in its Birmingham office. Among the appointments is Andrew Mellor in the firm's real estate team, who becomes partner.

Revenues rise at Shakespeare Putsman

Revenues at Birmingham law firm Shakespeare Putsman have increased to £23.4m. The firm, which has been through two mergers in the last year, said the rise "sets a firm foundation" for the next three years ahead.

Allen walks away with BYPY award

Hilary Allen has been crowned overall winner of the Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2011 awards.

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In Focus: A tale of two cities

Midlands Business Insider editor Andy Coyne gets dragged into the age old debate about whether Birmingham or Manchester should have second city bragging rights.

Talking Point: A time for change

Service Birmingham’s Stewart Wren on the holy grail of improving public services while at the same time reducing costs.

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