December Business Newsletter

December 2025 Issue

 

 

A Year of Achievement and Growth

2025 has been an incredible year for Amber Valley businesses! Here are some highlights:

Prestigious Awards – Celebrating Local Success

Amber Valley businesses have shone brightly in 2025, earning recognition across multiple sectors:

  • Garner Holdings – King’s Award for Enterprise
    The UK’s highest official honour for businesses, celebrating excellence in innovation, trade, sustainability, and opportunity.

  • David Nieper Ltd (Alfreton) – King’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development
    Recognised for outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

  • Garnalex Aluminium Extrusions Ltd (Belper) – King’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation
    Honoured for pioneering advancements in aluminium extrusion technology.

  • Owen Taylor & Sons Butchers (Ripley) – Best Wholesale & Catering Butchery Business
    Awarded at the inaugural British Butchery Awards for exceptional quality and service.

  • Belper North Mill Volunteers Association – GOLD for Team of the Year
    Achieved at the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards, celebrating community dedication.

  • Great British Car Journey – BRONZE for Experience of the Year
    Recognised for delivering an outstanding visitor experience at the same tourism awards.

These achievements showcase the strength and diversity of our local economy.

 

  

Nordicana Homewares - Growing with Local Support

Amber Valley’s own Nordicana Homewares is embracing growth thanks to expert guidance from the Accelerator Programme. Owner Neil Hunt shared how business adviser Steve Phillips provided invaluable support, taking time to understand the shop’s story, ethics, and commitment to a low carbon footprint.
While the shop was thriving, online sales lagged behind. Steve offered practical advice on social media strategies and the benefits of a new, integrated website to boost engagement and conversions.


Neil says:
“Steve is very good at listening and understanding a business and how actions can move it forward. I’m now working with a local company to build a brand-new, customer-friendly website that will increase sales and support local jobs.”

This success story highlights how tailored business support can make a real difference, for more details and case studies visit Growth Hub East Midlands.

 

Supporting Start-Ups and Growth

Derbyshire Start-Up Support Grants have been successfully allocated, helping new businesses take their first steps. But the support doesn’t stop there!

You can still access support to turn ideas into reality, this scheme provides:

✅ Expert mentoring
✅ Guidance on business planning and finance
✅ Networking opportunities with local business leaders

Accelerator Project – Delivered by East Midlands Chamber

Looking to grow, innovate your business or export your goods and services? The Accelerator Project is here to help you unlock your potential. Delivered by East Midlands Chamber, this fully funded programme provides expert guidance and practical support to drive business success.

Available until March 2026, the Accelerator Project offers:
✅ Dedicated 1-to-1 business advice
✅ Diagnostic reviews to identify growth opportunities
✅ Tailored action plans for your business
✅ Support to access funding and innovation resources

Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, these programmes are here to help you grow, innovate, and succeed.

 

Looking Ahead – Shaping Amber Valley’s Future

2026 will be a pivotal year for Amber Valley as we move forward with key studies that will inform strategic decisions and unlock new opportunities for businesses and communities:

  • Active Travel Study – Improving Sustainable Transport Options
    This study will explore ways to make walking, cycling, and other active travel modes safer and more accessible. The goal is to reduce congestion, improve health, and create greener connections between our towns and employment hubs.

  • Economic Assessment – Identifying Growth Opportunities
    A comprehensive review of Amber Valley’s economic landscape will highlight strengths, challenges, and emerging sectors. This will help us target investment, support innovation, and ensure businesses have the resources they need to thrive.

  • Town Centre Benchmarking – Supporting Vibrant High Streets
    Our town centres are the heart of the community. This benchmarking exercise will measure footfall, retail mix, and visitor experience to guide regeneration plans, attract investment, and keep our high streets competitive and welcoming.

These studies will provide data-driven insights to shape policy, funding priorities, and business support initiatives throughout 2026 and beyond.

 

Upcoming Events

 

 

We’re inviting all Amber Valley businesses to take part in the FutureFusion Skills Festival on Thursday, 6th March. This is a fantastic opportunity to inspire your future workforce and showcase the diverse sectors that make our borough thrive.

The festival brings together local employers, education providers, and young people to spark ambition and shape the future of skills in Amber Valley. Whether you operate in manufacturing, retail, hospitality, technology, or any other sector, your involvement can make a real impact.

Why should your business get involved?

  • Promote your business and sector to the next generation
  • Inspire future recruits and share career pathways
  • Network with local employers and education providers

Date: Thursday, 6th March
Location: Amber Valley
Register now: https://tinyurl.com/ynhfw2h6

Let’s work together to build a stronger, skilled future for Amber Valley!

 

 

Stay Connected

For the latest news, resources, and events, keep visitingInvest in Amber Valley.

Your engagement helps shape a stronger, more vibrant local economy. Join us in making 2026 a year of growth and opportunity!

 

 

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