Author: Dave Antrobus

Iceland Foods has announced the extension of its interest-free microloans scheme, an initiative aimed at supporting holiday shoppers and continuing through 2025.The microloan scheme, in partnership with Fair For You, provides customers with up to £100 on a preloaded card to use in Iceland or Food Warehouse stores.The loan scheme has been designed as an ethical alternative to high-interest lenders and has benefited over 23,000 families since 2022.Repayments for borrowed funds are set at a standard rate of £10 per week, though borrowers can opt to repay more.Existing customers can refill their cards, and new customers can apply online, ensuring…

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Iceland Foods has extended its interest-free ‘microloans’ initiative to support families during Christmas and throughout 2025.Shoppers can access up to £100 on a preloaded card, usable at Iceland and Food Warehouse stores.The scheme offers an ethical alternative to high-interest lenders, benefiting over 23,000 families since 2022.Existing customers can top up their cards from 16 December; new applicants can join through Fair For You.Richard Walker urges businesses to adapt to recent economic changes without undue complaints.Iceland Foods is extending its popular interest-free ‘microloans’ scheme, an initiative that will continue to aid customers through the festive period and all of 2025. This…

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Lawrence Jones, former UKFast CEO, has had his MBE revoked following a legal judgement for serious offences.Jones was convicted of raping two women and sexually assaulting a third in Greater Manchester, leading to a 14-year prison sentence.The honours revocation was officially announced in the London Gazette alongside those of five others, including a notable figure.Originally recognised for digital contributions, Jones has also lost his honorary doctorate from Manchester Metropolitan University.This incident has triggered a notable reaction from the tech community, condemning his actions.Lawrence Jones, once celebrated for his contributions to the digital economy, has been stripped of his Member of…

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As the festive season approaches, the demand for no and low-alcohol beverages is set to reach unprecedented heights, according to data shared by a leading supermarket chain.The supermarket anticipates a noticeable 15% increase in demand for no and low-alcohol drinks during the four weeks leading up to Christmas. This surge is partly driven by growing consumer interest in health-conscious consumption during traditional festive celebrations.According to the data, there is a marked increase in purchases of no and low beer, with consumers opting for multi-pack sizes. This trend reflects a year-on-year growth in volume, equivalent to a 20% increase. Beer brands…

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This Christmas season is poised to witness a significant shift in consumer preferences, as the demand for low and no-alcohol drinks accelerates substantially. According to insights from a leading supermarket, this trend is gathering momentum ahead of the festive period, marking a notable change in purchasing habits.The supermarket has reported a notable increase in the purchase of no and low-alcohol beers, with multi-pack sizes experiencing a rise in sales equivalent to a 20% increase in volume year-on-year. This surge is expected to continue, with a projected 15% increase in demand for these beverages in the four weeks leading up to…

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Nexer Digital and The University of Cambridge have joined forces to revolutionise health and safety management.The new Safety Hub is set to standardise safety practices across university departments.The platform prioritises user needs with a design focused on accessibility and intuitiveness.Built on Microsoft technology, it streamlines administrative processes and promotes accountability.Expert feedback has shaped a tool that addresses real-world safety challenges effectively.In an initiative to improve health and safety management, Nexer Digital has partnered with The University of Cambridge to launch a digital platform known as the Safety Hub. This collaboration aims to redefine how safety processes are recorded and managed…

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In a landmark move, London-based AI hyperscaler Nscale has secured $155m in a significant Series A funding round this year in the UK.Nscale emerged from stealth earlier this year and focuses on designing advanced data centre sites for large-scale AI operations.The firm aims to enhance its data centre capacity from 300MW to 1.3GW across Europe and North America by 2025.Nscale plans to introduce a public cloud service tailored for AI developers, enhancing their capabilities with sustainable and cost-effective solutions.Key investors in this round include Sandton Capital Partners, Kestrel 0x1, and Blue Sky Capital Managers.Nscale, a prominent player in the AI…

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Iceland Foods has announced the return of its interest-free loan scheme for the upcoming festive period, continuing throughout 2025. This initiative aims to support shoppers by providing financial relief amidst rising costs.The next stage of Iceland’s ‘Food Club’ loans scheme will be implemented in partnership with Fair For You, an online lending company. This scheme allows customers to borrow up to £100 interest-free, loaded onto a card usable at Iceland or the Food Warehouse. Standard repayments are set at £10 per week, with the option for customers to pay more weekly if possible.Customers currently benefiting from the scheme can top…

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In honour of its 10th anniversary, Consilia Legal has embarked on a memorable celebration in Paris.The law firm, known for its focus on family and employment law, was founded by Laura Clapton and Marie Walsh in 2013.The celebration included cultural activities such as a visit to Disneyland and a climb up the Sacre-Coeur Basilica.Consilia Legal has expanded to multiple locations and employs a 15-member team handling significant legal cases.Plans for future growth include technological investments to improve client and employee experiences.Consilia Legal recently celebrated a milestone achievement—its 10th anniversary—with a team-building trip to Paris. The Leeds-based firm, highly regarded for…

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John Lewis Partnership has teamed up with Caffè Nero to elevate the in-store experience.Five Waitrose locations now feature Caffè Nero cafés, enhancing customer relaxation options.The initiative is part of a broader recovery strategy following previous free coffee offerings.Charlotte Di Cello emphasises the importance of these stores as community hubs.The partnership aims to strengthen John Lewis’s market position and boost sales.The John Lewis Partnership is extending its collaboration with Caffè Nero by integrating the coffee chain’s cafés into several of its department stores and supermarkets. This strategic initiative is designed to enhance the overall shopping experience, thereby attracting more customers and…

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