Waitrose has unveiled an expansion to its No.1 premium Indian ready meal selection, launching seven new gourmet dishes.The new offerings include a variety of options such as Ruby Chicken Masala and Slow Cooked Beef Madras.Search data indicates a significant rise in interest for Indian meals and ready-to-eat options on Waitrose.com.A noteworthy increase in searches for related Indian cuisines on TikTok highlights growing consumer interest.This expansion aligns with Waitrose’s broader strategy of enhancing premium product lines across categories.Waitrose has taken a significant step in broadening its premium food offerings by expanding its No.1 Indian ready meal range. This latest launch introduces…
Author: Dave Antrobus
The UK government’s decision to classify data centres as critical infrastructure marks a pivotal moment for the industry.In recent months, the role of cybersecurity in shaping our society and economy has become increasingly apparent.The new classification signifies a commitment to safeguarding against cyber threats with government support.A forthcoming £3.75 billion data centre in Hertfordshire highlights the sector’s growing importance.However, the industry must address a critical shortage of skilled professionals to keep pace with demand.The recent announcement by the UK government to designate data centres as critical infrastructure is a significant development for the industry. This decision reflects a broader understanding…
Sills & Betteridge LLP has made significant strides in Sheffield following its merger with Acclaimed Family Law, marking its presence in the ‘Heart of the City’ Quarter.The legal firm has rebranded and relocated to New Oxford House, merging its expertise with Acclaimed Family Law.The move celebrates expanding service offerings, including family mediation and corporate law, with key figures attending the launch.This strategic relocation aims to bolster growth and accommodate future strategic hires, signifying the firm’s ambitions for broader regional influence.Additional expansions include acquisitions and office refurbishments across other key locations, indicating a year of substantial growth for the firm.Sills &…
Recent research highlights the increasing demand for micro-credentials in higher education institutions.Students show a preference for universities offering skills-based certifications alongside traditional degrees.Although 97% of education leaders acknowledge career benefits of micro-credentials, only 46% of European universities provide them for academic credit.Barriers include lack of awareness, integration challenges, and quality concerns, yet many institutions plan future offerings.Nikolaz Foucaud and Jennifer Walsh stress the importance of micro-credentials for modern education and employment outcomes.Recent findings emphasise the rising popularity of micro-credentials among higher education stakeholders. Three-quarters of students reportedly prefer universities that integrate these skills-based certifications into their curricula alongside traditional degree…
Harland & Wolff, a historic shipyard in Belfast, faces imminent administration, threatening a key Royal Navy contract.A £1.6 billion contract for three Royal Navy warships is at risk as the shipyard nears financial collapse.Industry experts warn that the Ministry of Defence may have to turn to Spanish contractor Navantia.There are fears of significant job losses at Harland & Wolff’s Belfast yard and other UK sites.The government is urged to preserve shipbuilding jobs and maintain national defence capabilities.Harland & Wolff, the Belfast shipyard famous for building the Titanic, is on the brink of administration, potentially jeopardising a £1.6 billion contract to…
In response to the proposed US regulations targeting low-value shipments, Shein maintains its competitive edge.The US plans to close a loophole allowing tax-free entry of low-value packages like those from Shein.Donald Tang, Shein’s executive chairman, asserts the company’s advantage stems from its operational model, not tax exemptions.There is political pressure in the UK regarding Shein’s listing amidst concerns over labour practices.Shein advocates for tax assessments based on wholesale, not retail pricing.The United States has announced intentions to close a specific tax loophole that enables low-value packages, valued under $800, to enter the country without incurring duties. This move is primarily…
The OECD warns the UK about urgent actions necessary to stabilise its public finances, signalling reforms in taxation and spending.The proposed changes include abolishing stamp duty and adjusting the pension triple lock to manage rising fiscal pressures.Rising costs in health, pensions, and climate change intensify the UK’s financial challenges, contributing to escalating borrowing costs.Projected UK debt could reach 270% of GDP within 50 years, stressing the need for immediate fiscal measures.Upcoming budget planning by Reeves will address overspending, with potential tax increases on the horizon.The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has issued a stark warning to the UK…
Boden’s financial recovery is progressing despite a significant increase in losses. The retailer posted substantial losses, yet remains optimistic about future profitability.Boden’s losses more than doubled last year, reaching £9.4m compared to the previous year’s £3.9m.A 13% sales decline to £304.5m was noted, primarily due to a downturn in late 2022.Leadership restructuring and strategic changes in early 2023 have begun showing positive effects in 2024.A notable improvement in sales and profitability has been seen, with womenswear driving a significant surge.Boden, the clothing and lifestyle retailer, has reported a more than doubling of its losses, recording a £9.4 million loss for…
Retailers in London’s West End are facing significant financial challenges due to the absence of tax-free shopping for tourists.The withdrawal of tax-free benefits has led to £220 million in unrealised sales in just half a year.Despite an increase in international visitors, sales figures are on a downward trend compared to last year.Industry leaders are urging the government to reinstate the shopping incentive to boost economic growth.Labour’s fiscal strategy is focusing on other measures, as reinstating tax-free shopping is off the table.Retailers in the bustling hub of London’s West End have experienced a notable downturn in sales, with recent research attributing…
A groundbreaking collaboration emerges between two tech firms, Revector and 4D Products, at Sci-Tech Daresbury.The teams have designed a bespoke backpack for search and rescue operations in Vietnam’s dense vegetation.Revector’s phone tracking device narrows the location of a missing person to a 20-metre radius.4D Products developed a cradle for the tracking unit, enabling streamlined search operations.This technology is set to significantly enhance the efficiency of rescue missions in challenging terrains.In a promising development, two technology firms based at Sci-Tech Daresbury, Revector and 4D Products, have joined forces to create a groundbreaking search and rescue backpack. The collaboration was sparked during…