There’s no doubting the fact that 2021 has been a challenging year for every business, thanks to the continued impact of Covid.
However – as well as those challenges – there have been plenty of other business stories in the headlines in south Lincolnshire.
From big business expansion plans to news on our infrastructure and a mixed picture for retail, here are our most memorable business moments of the year.
Big expansion plans
Naylors Farms in Spalding sparked national interest after we revealed that it is planning a £20 million innovative processing plant in Rangall Gate.
The move would create 150 jobs and would see cabbages transformed into protein in what’s seen as a pioneering way to bring about sustainable food for the future.
Gedney Drove End grower Stuart Piccaver also has one eye on the future – with plans for a new hydroponic system to ensure his salad crops are protected from the elements.
A £13 million recycling plant was also unveiled by Midwest Polychem at a site off the A17 in Holbeach.
Bakkavor also announced a big jobs push in the summer to try to meet growing consumer demand.
Infrastructure
In April, we revealed that Pinchbeck now has its very own customs border as a way to help plants and plant products reach the area quicker.
The ever-growing Food Enterprise Zone in Holbeach continued its development, with the green light given to a £5 million focal point hub building.
Meanwhile, a major conference announced plans for a ‘game changer’ UK Food Valley project that aims to attract international businesses to South Holland.
Retail
It was a mixed picture for retail in the area – with M&S being the biggest blow as it closed its doors in Spalding in May. On the plus side, however, Spalding’s landmark Hills Department store re-opened in April following a makeover which included a rooftop prosecco bar.
Poundland moved into the old B&M store at the Winsover Centre to ensure this did not stay empty and, while estate agents are tight lipped, new tenants are supposedly being lined up for a number of empty Spalding town centre shops.
KFC and Taco Bell got the green light to open at the Applegreen site and WaffleOpolis prepared to move into the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance shop in Sheep Market – while Starbucks, Greggs, Toolstation, Snap Fitness and Formula One Autocentres opened at a new development in Pinchbeck.
