#BackToBusinessGlos
SoGlos's journalists have been committed to celebrating the positive stories to emerge from across Gloucestershire ever since the pandemic hit, and a year on we are delighted to be spearheading a brand-new campaign to continue this positive spirit and support the county’s recovery – let’s get #BackToBusinessGlos.
Visit this dedicated section throughout 2021 for regular updates including hot lists packed with advice, business resources and funding sources; expert insights from Gloucestershire business leaders to inspire and inform; as well as positive news stories from both the county’s business and lifestyle sectors.
#BackToBusinessGlos is proudly supported by BPE Solicitors, Hazlewoods and Aston Lark, which all share in our passion to support Gloucestershire as we bounce back from such a challenging time. Find out more about these leading organisations below.
In association with:
BPE Solicitors is headquartered in Cheltenham with access points in London, Cirencester, Bristol and Oxford. It has more than 130 staff including 70 fee-earners.
Many clients have been retained for decades and the firm has supported young businesses in their growth to become multi-million pound, multi-national operations.
BPE Solicitors is an entrepreneurial business working with like-minded businesses and individuals, supporting businesses through their lifecycle, from starting up and structuring to development through growth, joint ventures, buying and selling or floating on the stock market.
Hazlewoods is a UK Top 25 independent Business Advisers and Chartered Accountants, with an established sector expertise hard to find elsewhere. We pride ourselves on a highly personal service, strong values and new ideas.
Our experts provide specialist accountancy, tax, audit and business advice to individuals and businesses of all shapes and sizes. Hazlewoods, has more than 380 staff and a wide range of clients locally, nationally and internationally.
With an office in Cheltenham, plus 45+ more across the UK and Ireland, Aston Lark is one of the top five independent Chartered insurance brokers and employee benefits advisors in the country.
We understand that, to our clients, insurance isn’t just insurance because business isn’t just business.
Aston Lark. The smarter way to insure your business.
Hot lists
10 ways Gloucestershire businesses can use returning to work to change for the better
As Gloucestershire businesses help their staff settle back into their places of work, now could be the time for employers to make those little tweaks and changes that could prove transformational.
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6 ways Stagecoach West can support your Gloucestershire business
Offering everything from discounted tickets to bespoke bus services, Stagecoach West is helping to support businesses in Gloucestershire, encouraging more people to commute by bus.
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6 legal considerations for employers as staff return to the office
From mandatory vaccinations to flexible working requests, SoGlos shares 6 legal considerations for employers as they welcome staff back to the office – as part of our #BackToBusinessGlos campaign.
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8 ways Gloucestershire businesses are getting back to work safely
As part of our #BackToBusinessGlos campaign, SoGlos handpicks eight pathways being taken by businesses in rebuilding Gloucestershire’s economy.
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7 ways to support your team's mental health as they return to work
The legacy of the ongoing pandemic on employees’ mental health is double edged – while the strain is real, Gloucestershire employers can take simple steps to have a positive impact on their team’s wellbeing.
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7 fascinating towns and villages to explore in the Forest of Dean
From vintage cinemas and Norman castles to microbreweries and craft centres, tap into a world of local history, culture and good food when exploring the Forest of Dean’s towns and villages.
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9 unique places to eat when you visit the Cotswolds
From cult dessert clubs to repurposed prisons, discover 9 unique places to eat in the Cotswolds that are sure to impress visitors and make local foodies’ lists of favourites.
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9 reasons Cheltenham is still a great place to visit in 2021
Whether you want to explore the Regency town on foot or bike, discover some of the amazing new venues that have opened or head to the theatre, find your happy place when you visit Cheltenham in 2021.
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9 back-to-business funds your Gloucestershire business can benefit from
Positive signs for the economy are widespread, but concerns remain over cash flow. SoGlos has tracked down nine potential pots of money which might help businesses in Gloucestershire grow.
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9 advantages of using a flexible workspace in Gloucestershire
With adaptable spaces, around the clock access, dog-friendly offices and on-site bars, flexible workspaces could be the way forward – according to Clockwise in Cheltenham.
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10 unique growth businesses in Gloucestershire to watch
County organisations aren’t just surviving during the pandemic, but are thriving – with SoGlos showcasing 10 interesting examples of Gloucestershire businesses which are growing at an impressive rate.
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8 organisations to turn to for business support in Gloucestershire
If you are starting or running a business of any size, Gloucestershire has some incredible organisations ready and willing to support you. SoGlos handpicks eight of these useful resources, as part our #BacktoBusinessGlos campaign.
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21 exciting things to look forward to in Gloucester in 2021
Some incredibly exciting things are happening in Gloucester in 2021 – from £100-million pound development projects and cool, new foodie destinations to some of the most popular events returning to the city. And we can’t wait…
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10 essential steps to starting your own business in Gloucestershire
You may be an expert in your field and have an incredible business idea, but everyone can benefit from support when starting a business, and that is exactly what Start and Grow Enterprise is there for – offering free training, courses and support from its headquarters at The Growth Hub in Gloucester.
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Expert insights
The future of flexible working and cyber security: Amiosec expert insight
The pandemic showed businesses that remote working can be a success, but as cybercrime spiked, companies have turned to firms like Amiosec to help protect them.
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Key things to consider when hiring new employees: Willans LLP solicitors expert insight
When it comes to recruitment, there’s a lot more to consider than just finding the right hire, according to Cheltenham-based Willans LLP solicitors.
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The Temple Guiting House project: Ford Construction expert insight
Ford Construction continues to make a name for itself for quality, which inspired us to find out more about The Temple Guiting House, one of the individual projects in the Cotswolds helping build its enviable reputation.
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‘It is a privilege to work here’: Meet the General Manager at the Queens Hotel
Cheltenham is full of incredible businesses with passionate people and teams behind them who love what they do – just like Erol Uray at the Queens Hotel.
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'It's been an extraordinary year': Meet the managing director at Dunkertons Cider
Cheltenham has a wealth of incredible independent shops, bars, pubs and restaurants, with passionate business owners behind them who love what they do – just like Melanie from Dunkertons Cider.
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Why rapid Covid-19 testing is still so important: Gloucestershire County Council expert insight
Regular, rapid Covid-19 testing is still so important to keep people in the county safe as lockdown restrictions are extended to July 2021, according to Gloucestershire County Council.
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Gloucestershire workplace wellness guide
Help keep employees healthy and happy with SoGlos’s dedicated guide to workplace wellness in Gloucestershire.
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As the economy re-opens, don’t leave the door ajar for the cyber criminals: ReformIT expert insight
We know to beware of cybercrime, but in the chaos of the last few months that has simply not been a priority – Cheltenham IT specialists ReformIT shares its simple, clear advice about how to protect your business.
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Converse Law expert insight: Just what is going on in the commercial property sector?
Few areas have attracted so much speculation since the pandemic began as the important economic driver that is the property sector. Imdaad Sulaiman, of Converse Law, provides the clarity about where we are in Gloucestershire, and tells us why he is confident the county is well-placed to recover.
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Build back better: The trio of business consultants determined to make a difference
If you are looking to grow your business, through better marketing, raising your profile, understanding your financial position, exploring overseas trade options, building your network - whatever it might be - this team of experts is there to help you.
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Campden BRI expert insight: How Gloucestershire businesses can minimise the impact of Covid-19 when reopening
Campden BRI’s reputation as a master of testing, analysis and the application of science across the food, drink and many other sectors is world-renowned, skills it is now also using to help keep businesses open during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Naylor Powell expert insight: Everything you need to know about the Stamp Duty Holiday extension
The Budget 2021 has revealed that the Stamp Duty Holiday is being extended until September 2021. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, SoGlos finds out everything you need to know from Gloucestershire-based property experts, Naylor Powell.
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Hooray expert insight: Why using a recruitment agency is more important than ever as the furlough scheme ends
The Budget 2021 has revealed that the Stamp Duty Holiday is being extended until September 2021. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, SoGlos finds out everything you need to know from Gloucestershire-based property experts, Naylor Powell.
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Davies and Partners expert insight: How Gloucestershire businesses can deal with redundancies the right way
With the furlough scheme scheduled to end in April 2021, Davies and Partners solicitors shares its advice on the right way to deal with redundancies.
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Sherbornes Solicitors Ltd expert insight: Can employers or employees insist on Covid-19 vaccinations?
With employers across Gloucestershire unsure of whether they can insist on employees being vaccinated against Covid-19 – and either not employing or dismissing those who refuse – Cheltenham-based Sherbornes Solicitors Ltd shares some insight and advice.
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Business news
After 10 years GFirst LEP celebrates its biggest project yet
After a decade helping transform Gloucestershire with £100 million-plus of investment, and establishing a can-do reputation in Westminster, GFirst LEP is tackling its biggest project yet in what could be a hugely significant year for its future.
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Work begins on £2 million Digital Innovation Farm Tech Box Park
Work has begun to build a £2 million digital innovation centre for Gloucestershire agri-tech firms at Hartpury College and Hartpury University.
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Gloucestershire B&B owner launches new breakfast cereal
Lockdown may have decimated her bed and breakfast business, but owner Deborah Lamplugh launched a new one when demand for her homemade granola went through the roof.
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Cheltenham BID appoints new chief executive
Powerful business group Cheltenham BID has named Heath Gunter as its new chief executive.
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Superdry back on track for growth
Gloucestershire-based fashion brand Superdry said it was ending the year strongly and was back on track for growth, after the Covid-19 pandemic cut nearly £150 million off its bottom line.
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Gloucestershire is growing its reputation as a holiday destination
Visit Gloucestershire, set up to champion and support the county’s visitor economy, said a boom in staycations this summer had opened the door to a potentially lucrative new market.
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£500,000 of growth funding for When in Rome wine business
Gloucestershire-based Italian wine importer When in Rome has won £500,000 of funding to expand its environmentally friendly business.
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Gloucester book business records sales of £297 million in one year
Started by just two people in an office in Gloucester, The Book Depository turned over £297 million last year.
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Work starts on £3.5 million Gloucester Food Dock
Work has now officially started to deliver what is, for food and drinks lovers, one of the most eagerly anticipated developments in Gloucestershire – Gloucester Food Dock.
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Work starts on £5-million Hartpury restaurant and conference venue
Construction work has started at Hartpury University and Hartpury College on a new £5 million catering hub and conference venue.
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Freemans Event Partners clocks up 40 years of fast food at Silverstone
A Moto GP race at Silverstone saw a Gloucestershire fast-food catering and logistics business mark four decades in partnership with the world-famous venue.
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Cheltenham law firm instrumental in creating one of the biggest data businesses in the world
Cheltenham-based BPE Solicitors played a key role in the takeover of a specialist London-based stock market business, helping to create one of the biggest companies of its kind globally.
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10 questions challenge: Neil Smith from ReformIT
The threat of cyber security, a client base ranging from circuses to cheese manufacturers, and cooking a mean curry - ReformIT's director Neil Smith is the latest Gloucestershire business leader to reveal all in the SoGlos 10 questions challenge.
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Gloucestershire insurance firm is offering a £20,000 grant to a small business
Insurance broker Aston Lark is giving small businesses in Gloucestershire the chance to win a £20,000 grant to help them recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Cotswold truffle business set to turnover £8 million in 2021
TruffleHunter, whose Cotswolds-based business sells products inspired by the sought-after fungi, is on target to see turnover pass £8 million as demand continues to grow.
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Building work gets underway on Gloucester’s The Forum
Work to build phase one of the £102 million The Forum in the centre of Gloucester, billed as 'transformative for the city', starts officially today.
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Firm with £14.6 billion of assets opens new Gloucestershire branch
Wealth management firm Raymond James has announced the launch of a new branch in Cheltenham.
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HS2 rail project on track for Gloucestershire engineering firm
Advanced engineering firm Versarien is increasing production of the revolutionary material graphene to help make possible the High Speed 2 rail project – with some other highlights outlined in its annual results.
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Health check shines spotlight on a Gloucester BID growing in strength
As it runs towards a crucial vote on its next five-year term the influential city centre business group, Gloucester BID has received a resounding thumb’s up from its governing body.
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£15 million buyout promises growth for Gloucestershire telecoms firm
Details of a £15 million buy-out of a Tewkesbury telecoms firm have become clearer after a Cheltenham law firm was thanked for its part in the deal.
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Gloucestershire is in a 'brilliant position to prosper' post-pandemic
While towns and cities nationwide scramble to find their new place in a post-pandemic world, Gloucestershire is in a ‘brilliant position to prosper', says its most powerful businesswoman of the last decade.
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New PCR testing site opens in Cheltenham
A new walk-through PCR Covid-19 testing facility has opened at Coronation Square in Cheltenham.
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New £2 million Tech Box high-growth business park revealed for Hartpury
A new £2 million business park built from re-purposed shipping containers is the next stage of Hartpury University and Hartpury College’s investment plans.
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Business sales see Hazlewoods handle £422 million of deals so far in 2021
A surge in mergers and acquisitions activity in the first six months of 2021 has kept Hazlewoods’ corporate finance team busy – so far handling £422 million of deals.
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New boutique Cotswold hotel opens to show-off half a million-pound investment
The curtain has gone up on an 11-bedroom luxury boutique hotel beside Cirencester’s Barn Theatre, revealing a stunning transformation of the town’s historic Ingleside House.
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£20 million of Levelling Up Fund cash would be ‘a shot in the arm for the Gloucester’
Business leaders and political masters behind three transformational projects in Gloucester have called on the government to back them with £20 million of funding.
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How the Forest of Dean District Council is supporting local businesses
From free resources to start-up grants, the Forest of Dean District Council is doing everything it can to support local businesses as they reopen post-lockdown.
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£1 million of green funding will help unlock major plans for Stroud
A major waterside redevelopment in Stroud and projects to future-proof some of its most historic buildings have received a significant boost in the form of £1 million of funding.
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Stroud’s Ship Inn to become part of growing Five Valleys’ family business
A Stroud restaurateur has revealed big plans for the Ship Inn, as the Brimscombe Port pub becomes part of his growing business empire – due to open in July 2021.
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Leadership course will help businesses build their own road-maps out of the pandemic
A firm which specialises in helping develop business leadership skills has practised what it preaches – thinking on its feet to deliver a course which could prove a vital in helping companies out of the pandemic.
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Lucozade pours £6 million investment into its Gloucestershire factory
Just over a year after it revealed it was spending £13 million on its Forest of Dean factory, Suntory Beverage and Food GB&I has announced a further £6 million investment.
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£20 million development plans unveiled to boost Forest of Dean economy
Details have been unveiled of an ambitious £20 million investment programme to bring jobs and new sports, education and community facilities to the Forest of Dean.
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Gloucester Rugby will emerge ‘vastly improved’ from the pandemic
Lance Bradley’s leadership of Gloucester Rugby during the pandemic, the focus on local businesses and community, has produced a ‘stronger and vastly improved’ club.
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120 new jobs are being created in the Forest of Dean
A manufacturer from the Forest of Dean, whose buildings have been used at major sports stadiums from Old Trafford to Twickenham, is looking to near double its workforce to 245 staff.
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Cotswold builder of homes for animals predicts US exports will pass £4 million
A Cotswold-based builder of homes for some of our smallest and most treasured animals has seen US sales surge through lockdown by 87 per cent – and predicts this is just the beginning.
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Motorsport specialist clocks record year - and almost races right past 25th anniversary
Steering a business through the pandemic requires all eyes on the road – but when Forge Motorsport boss Pete Miles did look up he was surprised to learn 2021 marked the firm’s 25th birthday.
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A free toolkit to help Gloucestershire businesses on the road to recovery
With a return to work checklist, cyber essentials, risk assessment templates and more, as Gloucestershire emerges from lockdown, Aston Lark's free Covid-19 Business Recovery Toolkit is proving a useful guide.
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Innovative Gloucestershire construction firm wins almost £40,000
A construction firm from Cheltenham can build stronger foundations for its future after HMRC awards it nearly £40,000 for innovation.
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Airline pilot training firm Skyborne invests further in Cheltenham
A serious investment in new Cheltenham accommodation for its trainee airline pilots has put the name Skyborne on the news radar again in Gloucestershire.
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Does GFirst LEP filming point to a new chairman of the board?
Filming outside GFirst LEP’s headquarters has prompted speculation about whether the powerful business group has found a new chairperson to replace the outgoing Diane Savory.
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Deadline looms for businesses to share in £1 million cash for growth
A share of £1 million set aside to help businesses in Gloucestershire grow is still available, but it is going fast and the deadline to apply is now looming.
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Gloucestershire businesses can get funding to go green through Severn Wye Energy Agency
Up to £300,000 of funding for green improvements is available to Gloucestershire businesses through Severn Wye Energy Agency, but the money is expected to go fast.
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Gloucestershire declared ‘strongest area for local business in the UK’
The UK arm of a fast-growing European fintech firm has crunched the numbers and declared Gloucestershire is the UK county most likely to recover strongly from the pandemic.
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Sixty new jobs as multi-million pound leisure park reaches for 2022 opening
After finally getting the go ahead for his multi-million pound investment the boss of a new climbing-focused leisure centre believes 60 new jobs and a 2022 opening are now within reach.
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‘D-Day’ for Stroud with Five Valley’s Shopping Centre reopening
It is difficult to sum up how important retail reopening is for Stroud’s Five Valleys shopping centre and its businesses, but centre manager Dionne Moore captures it well when she describes it as their D-Day.
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The first business to move into Cheltenham’s Quadrangle has been revealed
The Quadrangle has announced which business will be first to take up tenancy in the Cheltenham landmark, once the ambitious development project is completed in April 2021.
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Hydrogen-electric powered aircraft firm backed by Bill Gates moves to Gloucestershire
Backed by Bill Gates, millions of pounds of government money, and GFirst LEP, a firm developing the world’s first commercial zero-carbon passenger plane is moving to the Cotswolds and creating jobs.
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How the staycation boom has shaped one of Gloucestershire's business
Gloucestershire-based company M5 Motorhome Hire saw a huge increase in bookings last year and 2021 is set to be even busier, with more families looking to holiday in the UK as a result of the pandemic – with a bigger fleet and a new Cheltenham headquarters planned.
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One of the first independent accountancy firms specialising in cryptocurrency launches in Gloucestershire
A pioneering firm of accountants from Gloucestershire has launched a dedicated business specialising in cryptocurrency and blockchain.
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Expanding accountancy and law firm takes over Stroud tax business
An ambitious accountancy and law firm has announced the takeover of a Gloucestershire tax specialist just days after opening a Cheltenham office, revealing it is also recruiting.
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Forum Digital development in Gloucester gets the go ahead for phase two
The decision allows a new hotel, offices, business space and car parking to go ahead in the centre of Gloucester as part of the transformative £107 million Forum Digital scheme.
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Fitness app from Cheltenham personal trainer goes from strength to strength
With lockdown closing the face-to-face physical training side of his business, a Gloucestershire fitness instructor launched an app which is now jostling for position in a multi-billion pound marketplace.
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Major investment will see Stroud Auction Rooms open new headquarters
An Aladdin’s cave of treasures looks set to appear near Stroud, as the town’s famous auction rooms prepares to not just re-open, but invest in a new headquarters to house its wares.
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Businesses can get back to work with Covid-19 workplace testing from CHB Medical
Gloucestershire companies can get back to business safely with rapid workplace testing for Covid-19, arranged by Cheltenham-based CHB Medical.
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New £4 million digital skills centre set to be a ‘real asset’ for Cirencester
Businesses in the Cotswolds have welcomed news that work has started on a new £4.48 million digital skills centre at Cirencester College.
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Key part of Gloucester’s King’s Quarter development given the go ahead
More than 40 new apartments, roof-top gardens, business premises and retail units can be built in the middle of Gloucester, making possible a key part of the multi-million King’s Quarter redevelopment of city.
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Major step forward for new £5 million-plus Cheltenham business centre
A land deal and a new Growth Hub service for Cheltenham have been announced, paving the way for a £5.2 million business centre to boost the town’s economy.
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New owner of Gloucester’s former Debenhams store revealed
The former Debenhams department store in Gloucester has a new owner, adding to the multi-million pound investment already underway in the city centre.
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Here is how to get up to £40,000 to grow your business in Gloucestershire
As goody bags tempting you to business events go, Gloucestershire College’s promise it can help show you how you might access £40,000 for growth is right up there.
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An innovative new music venue is coming to Gloucester
Ambitious plans for a new music venue and recording studio for young people in Gloucester, by county charity The Music Works, are well and truly on track.
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Bedfolk bedding business enjoys comfortable turnover growth of 500 per cent
Demand has done anything but gone to sleep for a bedding company started by a Gloucestershire husband and wife team, with sales growing by several hundred percent.
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Work begins on Gloucester Food Dock
Developers behind the long-awaited Gloucester Food Dock have confirmed work has begun to progress one of the city’s most exciting schemes.
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‘This is not the death of the high street, far from it,’ says Perry Bishop's new head of commercial property
‘This is an unprecedented time for entrepreneurs and the brave dreamers’ who want to start businesses, according to Gloucestershire property experts Perry Bishop – which has just launched a new commercial property division in Cheltenham.
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Lifestyle news
Holland Cooper Cheltenham boutique finally reveals its opening date
The wait is over as Gloucestershire-based designer brand, Holland Cooper, has revealed when it will finally be opening its Cheltenham boutique.
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New Gloucester Brewery warehouse bar opens at Gloucester Docks
Gloucester Brewery officially launched its new 2,500 square foot Dock-side bar on Friday 24 September 2021, also opening its doors to investors and an exciting new deal with Gloucester Rugby.
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JD Sports is opening a new Cheltenham store in Regent Arcade
JD Sports will be the latest brand to open in Regent Arcade shopping centre, replacing Cheltenham’s vacant Top Shop unit.
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A new pizza restaurant plans to open on Cheltenham Promenade
Cheltenham foodies wondering what will move into the former Café Rouge could now have their answer – as the Promenade building looks set to become the next Franco Manca.
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New luxury fashion outlet opens at Gloucester Quays
Luxury footwear and fashion brand, Dune, has opened a new outlet store at Gloucester Quays.
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Cheltenham’s Brewery Quarter is getting another new restaurant
A brand-new Vietnamese street food restaurant will be opening at Cheltenham’s Brewery Quarter in 2022.
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New board game café opens in Cheltenham
Board N Bites is Cheltenham’s very first board game café, providing great entertainment for those wanting an alternative occasion out of the house.
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Tivoli Cinema in Cheltenham announces when it is opening
Cheltenham’s highly anticipated new boutique cinema has finally revealed when it will open its doors.
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EXCLUSIVE: First look inside: The Music Works’ £1.8 million Gloucester music venue
As The Music Works gets ready to unveil its £1.8 million new music venue in Gloucester, SoGlos got to see inside The Hub, before it officially opens this September 2021.
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Cotswolds charities have a chance to be featured on new Monopoly board
With the Cotswolds getting its very own version of Monopoly, three local charities have the chance to be featured on the Community Chest spaces on the board.
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Battledown Brewing Co. is selling discounted beer to support the local hospitality industry
Gloucestershire beer fans can enjoy a can of discounted Battledown Brewing Co. beer, with £1 from each can being donated to Hospitality Action.
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Axe throwing coming to Cheltenham
Got a good aim? Put it into practice at a new axe throwing venue, coming to Cheltenham in September 2021.
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Cheltenham’s Brewery Quarter to get another new venue
Flight Club, the home of social darts, has revealed plans to open a venue at the Brewery Quarter – promising ‘a spectacular bar and restaurant, an electric atmosphere and mind-blowing experience’.
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Brewdog plans to open a bar in Gloucestershire
Popular craft beer brewery, Brewdog, plans to open its first and only bar in the county.
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A brand-new garden bar is opening in Imperial Gardens this summer 2021
The Cheltenham Trust is opening the new Garden Bar Orangery in Imperial Gardens this August 2021.
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Full Cheltenham Literature Festival 2021 line-up announced
See Olympic gold medallists, drag queens, comedians, podcasters, politicians, writers and more appear at Cheltenham Literature Festival in 2021, with the Festival Village set to make a return and a new youth programme launching too.
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Everyman Theatre reopens to full capacity audiences
Reopening to full capacity with The Play That Goes Wrong was thankfully not prophetic, as Cheltenham audiences relaxed into the Everyman Theatre’s new guidelines seamlessly.
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First look inside: Cheltenham's newest nightclub Home & Botanic
Following its £1.5 million transformation, SoGlos took a tour of Cheltenham's impressive new nightclub Home & Botanic.
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A new cocktail bar is opening in Stow-on-the-Wold
Enjoy a delightful drink in Stow-on-the-Wold’s newest cocktail bar, taking over the Old Stocks Inn’s coffee shop in 2021.
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BarnFest is returning to Cirencester this summer
Cirencester’s Barn Theatre is bringing BarnFest back this August 2021, with a line-up of comedy, music and magic, including Tweedy the Clown’s new solo show.
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Gloucester is welcoming people back as nightlife and hospitality fully reopens
Gloucester’s nightlife will come alive once more as more lockdown restrictions are eased on Monday 19 July 2021.
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Everything you can do in Gloucestershire from Monday 19 July 2021
After being delayed in June, England’s Covid restrictions are finally easing on Monday 19 July 2021 – and, as well as meeting up with unlimited friends indoors, here’s everything you can do in Gloucestershire from Freedom Day…
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Café René Gloucester Rhythm and Blues Festival is returning this summer
The free Gloucester Rhythm and Blues Festival is set to boogie on back to Café René this summer.
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A brand-new pancake shop is opening in Cheltenham
Offering everything from Biscoff and Oreo flavoured pancake cakes to its sell-out mixed boxes, SISU Pancakes is opening in Cheltenham this August 2021.
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Gloucester Goes Retro is returning this summer
Take a trip back in time this August 2021, when Gloucester Goes Retro returns to the city.
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Malvern Autumn Show is returning to Three Counties Showground in 2021
After being postponed in 2020, the iconic Malvern Autumn Show is making a comeback – promising a long weekend of seasonal fun this September 2021.
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A pop-up glamping village is coming to Cotswold Farm Park this summer
Dubbed the 'easiest family holiday in the UK', Cotswold Farm Park is launching a pop-up glamping village this summer, for festival-themed family staycations in luxurious bell tents – and dogs are welcome too!
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Sudeley Castle reopens fully for the first time since lockdown
The historic Cotswold venue is reopening its indoor rooms and exhibitions for the first time since lockdown began in March 2020.
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A new darts club is opening in Cheltenham
Cheltenham’s Fire Station is opening a brand-new darts venue, 180 Club, this July 2021.
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Gloucester's indoor entertainment venues need your support
With everything from visiting the museum, taking a trip to one of the cinemas, immerse yourself in virtual reality or escape from zombies — there’s so much to experience in Gloucester.
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Slimbridge Wetland Centre launches Wetland Heroes app
A new interactive experience is helping families to discover the secrets of Slimbridge Wetland Centre, as the WWT attraction launches its free Wetland Heroes app.
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Stratford Park Lido is finally reopening
Families are finally being welcomed back to Stroud’s outdoor pool at Stratford Park.
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The Roses Theatre launches new outdoor performances
The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury will be relaunching its live programme with outdoor performances of (Almost) A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
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New dockside bar to open in Gloucester as Gloucester Brewery expands
A new dockside bar is set to open at Gloucester Docks, as Gloucester Brewery unveils major expansion plans expected to see its beer production reach a million and a half pints a year.
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A new £1 million luxury spa is opening in the Cotswolds
Recharge your batteries at the Cotswolds’ newest luxury spa, which is creating new jobs as well as moments of calm.
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Gloucester Cathedral Quarter is awarded a huge grant for cultural activities
A £100,000 grant from the High Streets Heritage Action Zone will see a programme of community led arts events happening in Gloucester’s Westgate area.
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The Cotswolds’ most Instagrammable restaurant is opening in May 2021
With everything from a floral archway and designated flower wall, Bourton-on-the-Water’s Bourtanical is the perfect brunching backdrop – and a strong contender for the Cotswolds’ most Instagrammable restaurant.
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Independent Gloucester cinema announces reopening
A date has been set, and a very apt film named, for the anticipated reopening of Gloucester’s much-loved independent Sherborne Cinema.
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The Bathurst Arms is launching a circus-themed dining experience
With a new circus-themed tipi that can safely seat up to 40 diners, The Bathurst Arms near Cirencester has reopened as an alfresco dining venue with a bang.
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Ellenborough Park is launching new outdoor dining carriages
A new alfresco dining experience is coming to Ellenborough Park as it launches its outdoor dining carriages, this April 2021.
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Cheltenham salon is giving free haircuts to NHS nurses
Laura Leigh Hair and Beauty in Cheltenham is giving NHS nurses free haircuts from now until September 2021, as part of the Hair for Heroes campaign.
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A huge new department store is opening in Stroud
Sandersons Boutique department store is opening its third UK venue in Stroud with a concession from Cheltenham-based designer fashion house Holland Cooper.
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Heritage British fashion brand opens outlet store at Gloucester Quays
A designer clothing brand popular with celebrities and royals, including The Duchess of Cambridge, is opening a new discounted outlet store at Gloucester Quays in April 2021.
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Cotswold District Council is encouraging people to visit its high streets safely
As lockdown restrictions start to ease, visitors are encouraged to return to the Cotswolds – with Cotswold District Council reminding them to stay safe while exploring the area’s historic town centres, quaint villages and famous beauty spots.
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New 'enchanting' boutique bar is opening in Cheltenham
Imperial Haus is Cheltenham's newest venue set in the former home of Boogie Lounge and will open in May 2021.
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A new Cotswolds meal kit delivery service has been launched
A new meal kit delivery service, with all the ingredients sourced from suppliers in the Cotswolds, has been launched by Doorstep Foods in Tetbury.
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Stroud’s Kitchen Garden Foods launches a punchy new brand
The Stroud chutney makers, Kitchen Garden Foods, have launched a punchy new range of rubs, pickles and sauces – dubbed ‘NAFF’, short for Not Another Fridge Filler!
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A new luxury boutique hotel is opening in Cirencester
A stylish 11-bedroom luxury boutique hotel is opening in Cirencester, creating jobs and promising to boost the town’s tourism industry.
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The Coconut Tree is opening a pop-up venue in Cheltenham
The Coconut Tree is opening a ‘pop-up on the lawn’ venue at St Paul’s Church in April 2021, right next to its popular restaurant in Cheltenham.
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John Lewis Cheltenham is reopening in April 2021
After John Lewis announced it was closing eight stores, Gloucestershire shoppers will be thrilled that Cheltenham’s John Lewis is here to stay – with the doors reopening in April 2021.
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A new coffee roastery is opening in Cheltenham
Ritual Coffee Roasters in Cheltenham is set to open its doors to the public this Easter 2021, with street food favourites The Woozy Pig providing brunch to take away too.
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Hetty’s Kitchen is opening a new venue in Stroud
Popular Gloucester bakery, Hetty’s Kitchen, has announced that it is opening a new venue in Stroud in May 2021.
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A new café is opening in Gloucester Park
The team behind Cheltenham’s popular The Butterfly Box is opening a new café in Gloucester Park – with frothy barista cappuccinos, Biscoff cookies and more being served from the spring.
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Brunsdon Financial launches a new mortgage service
Promising to help take the stress out of buying a new home, Gloucester-based Brunsdon Financial has launched B Mortgage Services.
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A brand new boutique farm shop is opening in the Cotswolds
The man behind The Cotswold Guy, who counts David and Victoria Beckham as customers, is opening a boutique farm shop in Guiting Power.
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Sudeley Castle is reopening with a new trail of life-sized elephants
Find 30 life-sized elephant sculptures at Sudeley Castle, near Cheltenham, when the attraction reopens this April 2021.
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Museum of Gloucester reveals its plan to future-proof the venue
The Museum of Gloucester is setting out plans to future-proof the venue and create ‘the quality museum that a historic city like Gloucester deserves’.
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Cheltenham Jazz Festival reveals 2021 line-up
The Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2021 line-up has been announced – with some big names to tune into during the free, two-day digital musical extravaganza this May bank holiday weekend.
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New ‘cocktails and cupcakes’ bar is opening in Cheltenham
Urban Fox, a new bar combining cupcakes and cocktails, is opening in Cheltenham – in the former home of Door 4 in Montpellier.
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Cowley Manor is launching private bell tent picnics
Enjoy a private picnic inside a luxury bell tent as Cowley Manor launches new alfresco dining options this April 2021.
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Three new dining experiences are coming to Westonbirt Arboretum
Days out at Westonbirt Arboretum are about to get even better, with three brand new dining experiences coming to the Cotswold attraction this spring 2021.
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The Woozy Pig is launching a new Cheltenham venue
The Woozy Pig is launching The Woozy Container Kitchen, a new Cheltenham destination for dirty burgers – with Ritual Roasters’ coffee and deliveries from the converted shipping container too.
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Gloucestershire cruise company is one of the first in the UK to set sail after lockdown
English Holiday Cruises will be one of the first river cruise companies in the UK to start sailing again in May, following the latest lockdown.
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Giffords Circus is getting its show back on the road
After being postponed due to the pandemic last year, The Hooley from Giffords Circus is set to open this May 2021.
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The Everyman Theatre is reopening this summer with three big shows
After more than a year of closure, the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham has unveiled that it will be reopening to full capacity audiences with three big feel-good shows, this summer.
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