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■Yorkshire-based bus maker Optare has bagged a £21million order from New Zealand. The deal to supply 114 buses to the capital Wellington is one of the largest in its 100-year history. Optare, part of Indian firm Ashok Leyland, said it would give the 300-strong workforce security. New Zealand has said it wants to secure an early trade deal with the UK after Brexit.

One of Britain’s few top-flight female chief executives is stepping down after 12 years at the head of UK energy firm Drax. The FTSE 250 company confirmed that Dorothy Thompson, pictured, appointed in 2005, will leave by the end of the year to be replaced by chief financial officer Will Gardiner.

■A chilly end to the summer saw drink sales fall 1.2% at pub giant Mitchells & Butlers. However, the All Bar One owner said food sales were up over the past eight weeks.