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Global success for Barnsley slime maker
A SLIME manufacturer set up when the popular children’s craze hit more than seven years ago has moved into a bigger Barnsley premises due to its worldwide success.( Novelty sensory putty retailer Slime Party UK, formerly based in Carlton, has taken over a 14,291sq ft unit at Redbrook Business Park.
Owner Ruby Sheldon said: “I set up after the craze hit the UK in 2017 and my kids were trying to make it.
“I then...
Barnsley bakery becomes home of the scone
MANY people just don’t realise that when they buy a packet of Tesco’s Finest scones they’re actually buying a product made by Barnsley’s own Haywood and Padgett.
Despite now being the world’s biggest supplier of scones, the baked goods giant had humble beginnings back in 1987 when founder Wayne Padgett decided to sell his products at Barnsley Market.
Over the past 40 years the company has continued to grow, with former market trader Wayne currently...
Social supermarket celebrating decade of ‘incredible impact’
THE country’s first ‘social supermarket’ - which has helped thousands of Barnsley residents during times of need - recently marked its tenth birthday. Josh Timlin took a look at Community Shop’s invaluable impact in the communities it’s served and why it’s needed more than ever.
‘Food poverty’ was an unfamiliar term when John Marren - who opened his first corner shop in Pilley more than 50 years ago - and his team had an idea...
Redundant staff offered support after ‘devastating’ closure
A LOCAL councillor has offered his support to employees affected by the ‘devastating’ closure of a Barnsley-based company.
Euramax Solutions Ltd, based on Ashroyd’s Way in Platts Common, was founded in 1950 originally under the name Ellbee.
The firm, which manufacture uPVC windows and doors for holiday homes and home improvement markets, operates a mammoth 205,000sq ft facility in the town.
The business was one of many organisations left out of pocket when Knaresborough-base
New chocolate factory shows Twix of the trade
YOUNGSTERS are being offered a golden ticket to a career in food production after a chocolate factory opened in Barnsley yesterday.
JJA Snack on Innovation Way, Redbrook contains an advanced manufacturing line designed by Siemens which, it is hoped, will inspire the next generation of chocolatiers.
Investors in the company and staff from Outwood Academy Shafton were invited to tour the factory and make their own chocolate, as the company prepares to open their doors...
Plans submitted for Glass Works unit
BARNSLEY town centre’s multi-million pound regeneration project could soon have another unit filled after plans to add a private dentistry service were submitted to the council’s planning board.
If the plans are approved, the five-surgery dental practice will be added at a vacant unit in the Glass Works, adjacent to The Fragrance Shop and next to both Next and Flannels.
A report states: “This planning statement is produced to support a request for the issue...
Local firm backs new youth hub
A FAMILY firm dating back to 1890 has become a financial backer behind a ‘one-of-a-kind’ project to create a multi-million pound youth hub for Barnsley’s youngsters.
Cawthorne-based Naylor Industries, a manufacturer of clay drainage pipes which diversified to grow into a global provider of plastic and concrete products, now employs about 400 people.
Chief executive Edward Naylor has signed up to become a capital supporter of Barnsley Youth Zone, which will be run by OnSide...
Council vow to fill empty shops after M and S departure
BARNSLEY Council bosses have reiterated their commitment to invest elsewhere other than the Glass Works after Marks and Spencer ended its 90-year presence in the town centre this week.
The retail giant announced last year that it would close its Queen Street store and was readying a move to Peel Retail Park, on Harborough Hill Road, where it will open a foodhall store with 60 per cent more space.
The town centre unit officially closed...
Deal close to reopen ‘repossessed’ bars
A DEAL to reopen two town centre bars which were repossessed by Barnsley Council after the owner fell behind on his rent payments to the tune of more than £100,000 was close to being completed yesterday evening, the Chronicle understands.
Mat Crisp, who is a director at the True Independent Group (TIG) and a Liberal Democrat councillor for Darton East, told the Chronicle he found out The Salt House and Black and White bar had...
Wanting to promote Spring offers for your business?
Spring is in the air! Well, not quite, but with the gloomy weather and gloomier news, who can blame most of us if we are already longing for brighter, lighter days? Days when we can turn our attention to trips and holidays; pottering in the garden, getting out and about, and even doing some DIY jobs seems appealing.
We are already planning our Spring Living supplement which will be featured in the Chronicle on March...
Calling all local food and drink establishments
We will be running our yearly Good Food and Drink Guide of 2023 in April and it’s a great opportunity to spotlight your establishment to the people of Barnsley and the surrounding areas.
We want to promote pubs, bars, shops and restaurants to showcase opening times, booking information, any special promotions or discounts.
Our booking deadline is Friday 31st March with the copy deadline being the following week on Tuesday 4th April.
If you require...
Light at the end of the tunnel for troubled bar
PLANS to reopen The Salt House which was repossessed by Barnsley Council after the owner fell behind on his rent payments to the tune of more than £100,000 are now well underway - after its new owner got the keys to the unit on Wednesday.
Luke Stone, 32, from Manchester, made his name through his dad’s VIP coach company to the stars and Premier League footballers - but it’s always been his dream to open...
Local lass Liz to head world-famous brewery
WORLD-famous Barnsley business Acorn Brewery has appointed a new general manager - and she’s hoping her local roots will play a role in its future success.
Launched in 2003, Acorn’s cask-ales quickly gained renown to see expansion to a 25-barrel brewery in Wombwell.
The brewery was sold to Sonas Capital and Liz Casserly, from Penistone, will oversee its running.
Liz, 40, said: ”I have a passion for hospitality, brewing and beer.
“I have known and...
Barnsley businessman completes Wakefield Trinity purchase
A BUSINESSMAN has completed the buy-out of a historic rugby league club.
Barnsley-born Matt Ellis, who runs DIY-Kitchens - which was formerly based on Castlereagh Street before its move to South Kirkby - has taken over the ownership reins at Wakefield Trinity.
The club, which was founded in 1873, was recently relegated from the Super League to the Championship.
Matt said: “I am originally from Barnsley but I’ve supported the club since going to watch...
Businesses brace themselves for the end of energy bill support
Businesses across Barnsley have had a difficult few years when it comes to their finances.
The start of the conflict in Ukraine almost a year ago triggered the wholesale cost of energy to soar to unprecedented levels.
One of the industries most affected by rising energy bills is manufacturing. Barnsley is home to many manufacturing businesses, including those in the food processing, engineering, and steel industries. These businesses require large amounts of energy...
Nomination for Barnsley businesswoman
A BARNSLEY woman has been nominated for the Business Woman of the Year Award.
Gillian Askew founded her company Go4Growth in 2020, and the organisation now supports more than 5,000 micro businesses.
Having been born and bred in Yorkshire, she now has almost 30 years of experience in the procurement service field - and said she was delighted to have been nominated for the accolade at the Yorkshire Choice Awards.
She said: “I’m delighted to...
Parkway’s Rob bags award nomination
THE owner of a Barnsley cinema has been shortlisted for an award.
Rob Younger, owner of Parkway Cinema on Eldon Street in the town centre, has been nominated as a UK Cinema Hero in Searchlight Pictures’ competition.
The competition, in partnership with the newly-released film - Empire of Light - is currently being screened at Parkway from 35mm film.
Searchlight decided they would like to find a true cinema hero - someone who goes the...
Business Names are More Important Than Ever
In the age of branding and digital presence, it has never been more important to have a great business name. A good name can take you places, while a bad name can leave you stuck. Read more about why business names are more important than ever here.
A good name has always been a good thing to have for any business. If you have a name that customers just can’t stop saying, it...
Businesses urged to put forward nominations
BARNSLEY businesses which have gone above and beyond by navigating the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic have been urged to put forward their nominations for a prestigious awards night.
Following the success of last year’s Celebration For Business event, Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce is again hoping to recapture the spirit of the community when the awards return on November 4.
Ten different titles are up for grabs for Barnsley-based businesses, as well as...
Business profits hit hard by Covid
BARNSLEY town centre businesses lost out on a third of their usual annual takings due to the knock-on impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, a new study has revealed.
According to Centre for Cities’ annual economic assessment of the UK’s largest urban areas, Barnsley was the seventh-worst area in Yorkshire and the Humber.
The town centre - which is in the final throes of its £200m regeneration - lost out on 14 weeks of sales and,...
Business rates expected to top £25m
BARNSLEY Council will receive about £25m from local business rates during the upcoming financial year.
Local authorities retain 49 per cent of all cash collected in the area, which is estimated to be £25.4m in 2022/23.
Half of the rates are paid to central government and the remaining one per cent is paid to the local fire authority.
The report added: “The business rate baseline remains extremely volatile and remains particularly vulnerable ongoing as a result of...
Cash is king for Barnsley businesses
CASH is becoming king for more Barnsley businesses - with some even ditching their card machines due to rising bills.
Many businesses in Barnsley are enforcing a cash-only stance on payments to avoid card charges and unnecessary expenses, with the current cost-of-living crisis having an ‘astronomical’ affect on people and businesses within the community.
Vanilla Hair Salon, on Upper Sheffield Road, recently told their customers that from the end of this month they would be...
Cost-of-living crisis impacts business
SPIRALLING energy costs have forced a long-established town centre fish and chip shop to close part of their business.
Mermaid Fish and Chips, based on Burlington Arcade, has seen a major rise in their energy bills, forcing them to make changes to their model.
Lisa Wright, shop manager, told the Chronicle: “We sadly had to announce the closure of the restaurant side of the business to focus on the takeaway.
“This was a decision forced...
Businessman lands award nomination
A TOWN centre businessman who has taken hundreds of knives off the street through his amnesty bin has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award.
Mitchell Cavill is the owner of Vape Store and Bargains Galore on Regent Street South and for the last three years has had a weapons amnesty bin inside his shop.
A number of people would occasionally drop off knives inside to Mitchell but since the arrival of his new...
Business support promised by council
BARNSLEY Council will continue to support businesses been affected by the pandemic after the furlough scheme ended last Thursday.
Since the start of the pandemic, the council has committed more than £75m to providing financial support to more than 5,500 businesses.
This funding has helped with rent relief, businesses grants and personalised support on a case-by-case basis.
The council is therefore asking those who need it to contact their helpdesk and to book an appointment...
Barnsley bakery bounces back
A BARNSLEY bakery which saw sales completely disappear during the pandemic - resulting in a £2m loss in turnover - has bounced back thanks to Barnsley Council’s Covid recovery scheme.
White’s Bakery, on Charles Street in Worsbrough Bridge, delivers cakes, bread, cookies and flapjacks to eateries in hundreds of school, colleges, universities and visitor attractions across the UK.
But when the lockdown hit, the company’s orders started to drastically drop - and their turn
Exciting career opportunities available at local company
JOBSEEKERS in Barnsley and the surrounding area are being given the chance to join a leading window and door manufacturer in Hoyland which has 66 jobs available - and they are being urged to book onto one of several assessment days to find out more.
Euramax Solutions, a leading window and door manufacturer, has launched the major recruitment drive and is looking to significantly grow its factory team to cope with increased demand.
The...
Business up for grabs... for free
A RECRUITER who was left jobless due to Covid-19 started his own fresh food delivery service which saw business boom and is now ready to hand over his beloved project free of charge to return to the job he loves.
Matt Foster, who owns Fitzwilliam Fine Foods Home Delivery based in Wath-upon-Dearne, was determined to start his new venture back in March after work at his recruiting agency in Huddersfield halted due to the outbreak....
Firm’s building for the future
A BARNSLEY bricklaying company has been handed an award for its commitment to tackling the construction skills shortage.
Barnsley Brickwork, based on Regent Street South, has created more than 100 training opportunities and six jobs for Barnsley people over the last year - and has bagged Sheffield Housing Company’s (SHC) ‘sub-contractor of the quarter’ award for its efforts.
The company, established in 2005, has worked with SHC on all of its projects throughout the city,...
Kelly shows she is a cut above...
BRIDAL hairdresser Kelly Hanks has won a national competition for her work making brides around the country look their best on their big day.
Kelly was runner-up in the Wedding Industry Awards ‘wedding hairdresser of the year’ award last year - but this time she’s gone from bridesmaid to bride, having bagged the top prize.
The award, voted for by clients, saw Kelly win the regional final for the second year running and beat seven...
Boost to employment prospects
MORE than 100 new businesses have set up in Barnsley within the last 12 months, a report has revealed.
The 105 firms represent a rise of 1.7 per cent on the previous year’s growth, which is the sixth highest increase in the Yorkshire and Humber region and only just below the national average of 1.8 per cent.
“The main driver for the return to growth is attributed to the strong 10.5 per cent growth in...
Business centre’s expansion unveiled
A MULTI-MILLION pound extension which is hoped to entice more businesses to put down roots in Barnsley has been officially opened.
The fifth phase of the ever-growing Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre (BBIC) has been in the pipeline for almost two decades, but finally opened yesterday with MP Dan Jarvis and South Yorkshire Lord Lieutenant Andrew Coombe in attendance.
All 25 units in the £2.3m expansion at the Business Village in Wilthorpe were opened to...
Businessman blasts council’s support
A BUSINESSMAN whose firm’s profits have been cut by £1m due to the closure of the entertainment industry has blasted the amount of support offered by Barnsley Council throughout the pandemic.
David Hirst, 55, of Birdwell, is a 30-year veteran in the sector and set up the Ocean Leisure Entertainment Agency back in 2006 - a firm that was successful supplying self-employed acts to an array of venues.
At the start of the pandemic, while...
Final flats at Gateway Plaza sold
A DEVELOPER who invested heavily in a town centre apartment complex has sold off its final flats to an overseas property fund.
Quest Property, part of the Brook Group which opened the Gateway Plaza development of 188 flats ten years ago, this week sold its final 128 flats to the Australian L1 Property.
It was always the intention, said Quest chief executive Jason Brook, to sell off the residential side of the development while retaining...
Free first aid for parents
PARENTS are being invited to learn skills that could save their child’s life.
MHE services, based at Carlton industrial Estate, is offering a free two hour first aid course to teach parents how to perform CPR, use an AED and what to do if a child is chocking.
Faye Holmes, who works for MHE said: “Parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles, or anyone with a baby or child close to their hearts is welcome to attend.
“We...
Gaming shop helps homeless
A GAMING shop held a card game event to collect for a foodbank.
The One Stop Game Shop, based at the Victorian Arcade, holds weekly Yu-Gi-Oh (a Japanese comic series) events in conjunction with the Library @ the Lightbox.
In return for a free packet of entry cards, players were asked to donate five tins of non-perishable food to Action For Barnsley Homeless.
In a statement on Action For Barnsley Homeless Facebook page, the charity...
Barnsley put on a global map
A NEW online tool published by the Sheffield City Region aims to show investors from around the world what opportunities Barnsley has to offer.
The Locate in SCR website displays everything from demographics and employment statistics to the student population - and what subjects they’re studying - and even lists potential premises or vacant lots that are up for sale or rent in the nine towns and cities that make up the region.
Rachel Clark,...
Busy day of trading at crafters’ market day
AROUND 900 people enjoyed visiting a Christmas market with a difference at the weekend.
An Etsy Made Local Christmas market took place at The Digital Media Centre and was organised by Crafty Business Barnsley.
It was part of a national scheme that saw towns and cities across the UK celebrating the makers and designers that make up the creative community selling on Etsy.com.
Steph Cronin, founder of Crafty Business Barnsley, said this has been the...
The company that is keen to give chances
THE OWNER of a company which built the new bar within the Glass Works development in the town centre is working to ensure local apprentices are ‘given a chance’ like he was.
The 3C Group is a contractor that specialises in kitchens both residential or commercial and also provides a design service to clients.
It was established in Penistone in 2017 and has since expanded to offices in Leeds.
Matthew Crisp, 40, created the company...
Fast food drive-thru closed for refurb
A FAST food restaurant has closed for refurbishment.
McDonald’s at Wentworth Business Park, Tankersley, closed on Sunday for building works and a second drive-thru lane to be installed.
The store will reopen on December 10 at 11am.
Changing of the guard at Cherry’s
A HAIRDRESSER has hung up her scissors and clippers after 53 years of running her own business.
Patricia Cherry, who runs Cherry’s Hair Salon, in Pontefract Road, Lundwood, has decided that at the age of 78 it’s time to pass her business down to her granddaughter, Alisha.
Patricia - or Pat as she is known to most - who was born in Lundwood, took after her mother who was a hairdresser.
The 78-year-old, of Lang...
Defiant tearoom boss opens back up
A POPULAR village tearoom - forced to close after a series of break-ins - was back in business this week much to the relief of customers.
The Copper Kettle in Thurgoland shut its doors some weeks ago after masked raiders struck as the cosy cafe was closing.
After kicking in the door, they got away with just £10.
But as the third raid in little over a year, it was enough for owner Michelle Gray...
Cyclist cafe is crowned king...
A CAFE in Langsett has been given a lifetime achievement award for serving South Yorkshire cyclists.
The Cycling UK annual Cyclist Cafe of the Year awards, now in their second-year, invite cyclists across the UK to choose their favourite haunts.
The Bank View Café has been serving South Yorkshire’s cyclists since 1900, initially to serve the nearby reservoir’s workers.
The café is located at one end of the Strines, a route which skirts the edge...
Long-serving Phil ready to push his firm forward
A BARNSLEY-based businessman has completed the buyout of a leading food service and retail equipment supplier.
Phil Williams, of Cudworth, is the current managing director of Victor Manufacturing, in Bradford, and has been with the company for more than 20 years.
The 57-year-old, who has lived in Barnsley all his life, took the decision to take over the company when the firm was put up for sale by the Mrs J M Mountain Will Trust....
Hairdresser shows he can cut it...
A BARNSLEY hairdresser has been crowned one of the UK’s best hair stylists in a national award.
Craig Parkinson, who works at Mane Hairdressing in Shambles Street, won the best bridal hairdresser at the National Hairdressers Federation (NHF) and the National Beauty Federation (NBF) floor competition - Britain’s Best.
On Sunday, Britain’s Best took place for the second time at the UK’s largest hairdressing trade show, Salon International at ExCeL London. At the event, Craig...
Young apprentice up for award
AN apprentice vehicle repair technician who won a regional award is competing to be crowned the National ‘Rising Star of the Year’.
Matthew Turner, 21, of Bamford Close, Dodworth, is an accident repair technician at Gemini Accident Repair Centre in Rotherham where he repairs a wide range of vehicles and he regularly volunteers to speak at schools and events.
He won the title at the National Apprenticeship Awards for Yorkshire and the Humber ceremony in...