The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) challenges the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) over proposed fining powers.The SRA’s proposals aim to introduce two new tiers of fining bands, potentially allowing fines up to £500,000.Critics argue that these changes could allow wealthier firms to see fines as mere transactional costs.The SDT insists that it provides a more consistent and transparent disciplinary process.Questions arise regarding the necessity and legality of the SRA’s proposed changes.The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) has voiced strong opposition to the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s (SRA) plans to implement new fining powers, which could allow the authority to impose fines up to…
Author: Dave Antrobus
PwC has confirmed plans for a new headquarters in Cardiff, aiming to expand its workforce significantly.The new office at One Central Square is part of a broader scheme centred around Cardiff Central Train Station.PwC has leased a significant portion of the building previously occupied by MotoNovo Finance.The relocation aligns with PwC’s regional strategy to invest in skills and improve social mobility.The move signals continued investment and growth opportunities within Cardiff’s evolving business landscape.In a strategic move towards enhancing its regional presence, PwC has announced the establishment of a new headquarters in Cardiff, with an ambition to expand its workforce by…
The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has determined not to disclose individual assessments of chambers, as it implements a novel oversight approach.The decision comes during a comprehensive strategy to reform how chambers are supervised, following extensive consultations and feedback from barristers and clerks nationwide. The BSB aims to drive cultural change within chambers, encouraging collective responsibility among barristers to uphold high standards, equality, and access for consumers.The regulator expressed that although no new regulatory obligations are imposed, there is an effort to clarify existing practice management requirements. These will be primarily outcome-focused, avoiding overly prescriptive measures.A significant portion of chambers comprises…
Recent research highlights a persistent gap between the commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) policies and their practical implementation in law firms and in-house legal departments.A survey conducted by Obelisk Support involving 133 senior lawyers, including general counsel, reveals the disparity between DEI strategies and their execution. Despite 71% of respondents indicating their workplace has a formal DEI strategy, only 24% feel ‘very empowered’ to achieve DEI objectives. This suggests a disconnect between leadership commitments and the empowerment of legal staff.A general counsel remarked on the visible leadership commitment to DEI, but highlighted a disconnect in empowering staff to…
LVMH has appointed Michael Rider as the new Creative Director of Celine, following Hedi Slimane’s departure after a fruitful seven years.Michael Rider, previously of Polo Ralph Lauren, is set to lead Celine beginning early 2025.Rider’s history with Celine stretches from 2008 to 2018, where he focused on women’s ready-to-wear fashion.Rider’s creative vision aligns with Celine’s values and deep heritage, marking a promising future for the brand.Celine’s CEO praises Rider’s connection to the brand and anticipates continued success under his leadership.LVMH has announced the appointment of Michael Rider as the new Creative Director of French fashion house Celine, succeeding Hedi Slimane.…
Legal action by Tata Consumer Products against striking workers raises concerns over alleged trespassing.The workers entered Tetley’s Teesside site, reportedly violating picketing rules and intimidating managers.GMB Union warns of potential tea shortages due to the ongoing strikes and planned further actions.Tata insists strike actions should remain peaceful, with clear guidelines for conduct communicated to employees.Court hearing set as Tata implements measures to minimise supply disruptions amid the ongoing dispute.Tata Consumer Products has initiated legal proceedings against striking workers at Tetley’s Teesside production site in County Durham, citing trespass as the primary grievance. The company claims that the workers engaged in…
JD Sports Fashion is facing a challenging market, but optimism remains for a rebound.UK revenues saw a 4.6% decline, influenced by multiple market factors.CEO Régis Schultz anticipates increased sales due to colder weather in the latter half of the year.Continuing shipping delays from Asia are expected to have only a minor effect on deliveries.Despite setbacks, there is confidence in Nike’s brand strength and future performance.In the 26 weeks leading up to 3 August, JD Sports Fashion reported a 4.6% drop in UK revenues, amounting to £1.2 billion. This decline has been attributed to a ‘challenging, and often volatile, UK market,’…
JD Sports’ leadership remains optimistic amid Nike’s financial challenges, underscoring their robust business model.JD Sports CEO Regis Schultz confidently dismissed concerns about Nike’s recent performance, affirming that the brand will recover in time.Nike’s withdrawal of its full-year guidance follows a significant drop in revenue, yet JD Sports remains unaffected by these troubles.JD Sports has achieved record sales and profit growth, attributing success to its multi-brand strategy, particularly strong in the US market.Regis Schultz asserts JD Sports is on track with its ambitious goals, emphasising their strategic advantage and operational expertise.JD Sports has made it clear that, despite Nike’s current financial…
An official report sheds light on the effectiveness of Covid grants provided to UK businesses.The Department for Business and Trade reveals only 25% of recipients required aid to survive.Concerns arise over government spending efficiency and potential fraudulent claims.The report acknowledges the role of grants in safeguarding jobs and economic confidence.The government commits to addressing waste and reviewing lessons for future crisis management.The analysis from the Department for Business and Trade has uncovered that only 25% of the 1.4 million UK businesses that received state support during the Covid pandemic were in genuine need of the grants to avert collapse. This…
Adidas UK has reported a notable decline in its sales revenue for 2023.The company’s turnover fell to £1.15bn, down from £1.23bn in 2022.Wholesale and online sales experienced significant drops, contributing to the overall decrease.There was, however, a positive growth in retail store sales by £14.9m.Adidas remains optimistic about future prospects despite current challenges.During its recent financial year, Adidas’s UK division encountered a sales reduction of over £100m, marking a downturn from a turnover of £1.23bn in 2022 to £1.15bn in 2023. The downturn was primarily influenced by a significant £88m decrease in wholesale revenue and a £37.7m drop in online…