Fight for ‘transformational’ rail schemes - Hammond

High-speed rail, coupled with Network Rail’s £530m Northern Hub plans, could have a “transformational” effect on the region’s economy, transport secretary Philip Hammond has said. But speaking to Insider he urged business leaders to redouble their efforts and fight for the schemes – or else risk losing out to opponents from the South. Insider is campaigning for Network Rail’s Northern Hub bid to be accepted in full.

Yearsley on the acquisition trail

Cold storage and distribution company Yearsley Group is on the hunt for deals in the food sales sector, according to managing director Harry Yearsley. He told Insider the Heywood-headquartered business would "expand through strategic acquisition when the opportunities arise and where the company dovetails with our operation".

£550m green funding package unveiled

The Carbon Trust and Siemens have unveiled plans to provide UK businesses with green equipment finance worth up to £550m over the next three years. The deal aims to boost green growth and unlock business investment in the 'low carbon economy'.

Communicate Better swoops for Liverpool company

Communicate Better, based in Manchester, has acquired Liverpool-headquartered telecoms company MH Communications. The company said the Liverpool company would not be its last acquisition of the year, adding it had targeted several other companies for takeover.

Malbern hit by high-profile administrations

Manchester windows and doors manufacturer Malbern was dragged under by bad debts caused by the collapse of social housing business Connaught and building group Rok, a new report has revealed.

Coral on track despite cost increases

Coral Products, the Haydock-based manufacturer of plastic cases, has said its results continue to be in line with expectations but "significant raw material price increases" meant operating margins remained low.

Renovo’s share price falls further

The share price of Manchester biopharmaceutical business Renovo Group has fallen further after the company revealed restructuring plans that will result in more than 100 job losses.

Something for the weekend

This week: Cheat! Cheat! Cheat!; the master mixers; we Cannes work it out; canapé won’t pay.

BPF welcomes JJB’s restructuring plans

The British Property Federation (BPF) has welcomed proposals that would mean landlords share in JJB’s future profits following the publication of the Wigan sportswear retailers’ bid for a second company voluntary arrangement.

Liverpool reveals MIPIM plans

Liverpool Vision has revealed more details about the city’s plans at next week’s property festival MIPIM in Cannes. City council leader Joe Anderson will not be on a plane to the south of France, but Vision’s Mike Taylor will lead a small delegation to the exhibition and give a presentation on the city’s on-going waterfront regeneration projects.

Two more sign in Oldham

Acting on behalf of Beva Investments, WHR Property Consultants has secured two new occupiers at Vulcan Business Park in Oldham.

Tague on Tour: Much to do to make Localism work

The coalition government has much to do to make its Localism Bill a workable piece of legislation that can encourage development, finds Neil Tague.

Talking Point: What does venture capital mean?

Self-styled “corporate finance activist” Malcolm Evans says even the best start-up businesses are clueless about venture capital. He's on a mission to change all that.

Your questions answered - Meeting with buyers

How can you ensure a competitor's approach for your business is genuine? And who should join you in meetings? As part of our guide to Selling Your Business, Tremayne Ducker, director at Zeus Capital, has been answering your questions.

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