Work by a Bradford business academic for local firms has led to the formation of a forum enabling companies to share ideas and knowledge.

The Innovation Club was the brainchild of Dr Nigel Lockett, of Bradford University School of Management, and was inspired by his work for three local companies – Pace, Hallmark and Premier Farnell.

As a first step firms have been paired to identify innovative ideas. In May, founder members will meet again to share what they have learned.

Dr Lockett said: “I’ve been working with three companies on their innovation processes. They were saying they’d like to meet each other and share ideas, so I organised a dinner. The response was immediate and overwhelmingly enthusiastic.”

The other founding members of the group are Arco, Arena Group, Foundation, Foster’s Bakery, Gordons and NG Bailey.