Begbies hit by fewer insolvency cases

Fewer companies entering administration has hit revenues and profits at Manchester-based corporate insolvency specialist Begbies Traynor. In its half-year report, published this morning, the company blamed lenient creditor attitudes and temporary government support measures for the reduction in the volume of businesses going to the wall.

Consilia moves for HTG Holdings

Consilia Partners, the operational turnaround and investment firm based in Manchester, has acquired a majority stake in HTG Holdings, a specialist catering equipment distribution business based in Ipswich, from Chamonix Private Equity. It’s the company’s maiden investment since being set up in January.

CSC rejects Simon Property proposals

The row between Capital Shopping Centres (CSC) and US real estate investor Simon Property Group has intensified after CSC rejected Simon’s takeover proposals. CSC has also accused Simon of attempts to ‘frustrate’ its acquisition of Manchester’s Trafford Centre from Peel Holdings for £1.6bn.

Provexis looks to develop pipeline

Life sciences group Provexis, which has research and development facilities based in Liverpool, this morning said it was on the hunt for acquisitions as it looks to further develop its pipeline.

Canada calling for Adam

Stockport-based Adam International has secured an international distribution deal worth £2.5m. The company has signed a contract with Canada-based Climacare Solutions for its building energy management systems.

Pub closures hit leisure and gaming group

Preston-based Sceptre Leisure has announced a downturn in profits and turnover due to “difficult trading conditions and legislative changes”.

Eazycuizine eyes Far East expansion

Cheshire frozen food manufacturer Eazycuizine is targeting the Far East as part of the next phase of its expansion plans. The company, founded five years ago by husband and wife team James and Julie Cook, has begun exporting its Minishots product range to Hong Kong.

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CEG hits the market with former Kenmore sites

Property investor Commercial Estates Group has celebrated its entry into the Manchester market with the launch of 196 Deansgate this week. CEG has bought the building, along with Jackson House in Sale, as part of a portfolio formerly belonging to Bank of Scotland-backed property group Kenmore.

Arley submits Chorley plans

Arley Homes has submitted plans for the regeneration of a derelict 11.7-acre site at Duxbury Park in Chorley. The site was formerly owned by United Utilities.

Forrest appointed to Procure Plus framework

Preston-headquartered building services company Forrest has been appointed to Procure Plus’ multimillion-pound framework to improve homes across the North West.

Tague on Tour: Eric Pickles and the BANANA republic

What impact will the Localism Bill have on a property industry already concerned about planning regulations? Neil Tague hears the experts' views.

In Focus: Private equity's inflation risk, seriously

Private equity houses raised billions in the good old days. Are they now under extreme pressure to invest their funds and are they at risk of overpaying? Michael Taylor muses.

Forthcoming Experts

Initial Meetings

The next Buying a Business advice from Robert Jackson, CEO of Montpelier Chartered Accountants, concerns initial meetings with buyers. Read on for his expert advice.

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