Shoplifting in the UK has been recorded at its highest in two decades, averaging 1,200 incidents daily, according to the latest data.The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has highlighted a significant increase in shoplifting offences, marking a 30% rise over the last year.Independent retailers express concern over the growing trend, indicating a strain on resources and morale.A substantial portion of the retail sector reports experiencing theft, with notable impacts on business operations.The increase in shoplifting incidents contributes significantly to the overall rise in theft crimes across the nation.The prevalence of shoplifting has reached unprecedented levels, as evidenced by the recent…
Author: Dave Antrobus
Deciding to hire apprentices comes with several essential considerations to ensure success for both the business and the apprentice.Establishing a robust workplace culture is crucial for effective apprenticeship programmes.Intentional recruitment is necessary for aligning apprentices’ goals with business needs.Selecting the appropriate training provider can enhance the apprenticeship experience.Assigning mentors greatly benefits both apprentices and the organisation in achieving educational and business objectives.Hiring apprentices presents an opportunity for businesses to save money while developing and retaining skilled staff. However, Stacey Allen-Hayes from Arden University highlights that many apprentices drop out due to insufficient support from employers. To combat this, establishing a…
In the UK, playing music in the workplace without proper licensing can lead to serious legal and financial consequences for businesses.More than half a million businesses are estimated to be in breach of copyright laws due to unlicensed music use.Business experts highlight the importance of assessing and ensuring compliance with music licensing laws to avoid fines.Fines for non-compliance can vary significantly, with some cases leading to potential prison sentences.Understanding the need and cost for music licences is crucial for business owners to prevent legal issues.It is estimated that over half a million businesses across the UK are in violation of…
In the increasingly dynamic corporate environment, integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology in employee management is revolutionising workplace efficiency.IoT devices enable real-time monitoring of employee productivity without being invasive, leading to optimised team performance.Wearable IoT devices ensure compliance with health and safety regulations by monitoring environmental conditions and detecting hazards.Real-time tracking of physical assets through IoT increases operational efficiency and reduces equipment downtime.The strategic implementation of IoT in human resources fosters a safer and more productive work environment.In the modern corporate landscape, the utilisation of Internet of Things (IoT) technology is transforming how businesses manage employees and resources. By enabling…
Recent reports reveal a stable pattern in UK pay awards despite inflation shifts.The median pay award for April to June 2024 remains at 4.9%, mirroring the previous quarter.Employees on the national living wage experienced a significant 9.8% pay increase this April.Upcoming changes in minimum wage policies could impact employer payroll strategies.Employers now face a predictable pay settlement landscape with fewer deviations.The latest data provided by Brightmine, a key player in HR analytics, indicates that median basic pay awards in the UK have held steady at 4.9% for the three months ending June 2024. This stability comes against the backdrop of…
Mills & Reeve’s Leeds office is expanding into new office space following significant growth over the past year.The firm will nearly double its size by moving to 10,200 square feet at 1 City Square in October 2024.Headcount at the Leeds office increased by over 25%, prompting this substantial expansion.The office has witnessed considerable client base growth, securing new business from both local and international companies.Mills & Reeve aims to recruit skilled lawyers to enhance their specialised sector offerings in technology, healthcare, education, and food.Mills & Reeve is set to expand its Leeds office significantly by taking up 10,200 square feet…
In a significant move to revamp the current skills system, the Prime Minister has introduced a new growth and skills levy.The growth and skills levy is set to replace the existing apprenticeship levy, indicating a major policy shift.A new body, Skills England, will administer the fund, marking a structural reform in skills training management.Businesses will have increased flexibility to allocate levy funds, addressing long-standing employer requests.These changes aim to stimulate economic growth and expand opportunities for British youth.In a notable effort to reform the skills landscape, the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, unveiled a new policy initiative at the Farnborough International…
In a strategic move to rejuvenate the Oxford Street area, Westminster City Council has introduced new pop-up spaces for fashion brands.Premium knitwear label Hades and custom sneaker brand Canvvs lead the first wave of businesses opening.Luxury linen brand Kindred of Ireland and B Corp-certified Love Cocoa are also setting up shop in the vicinity.The initiative received over 800 applications from innovative enterprises seeking prime locations at reduced rent.Aimed at reducing vacant stores, the scheme supports small businesses with operational and promotional assistance.In a significant initiative to revitalise Oxford Street, Westminster City Council has opened new pop-up spaces for budding fashion…
Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) play a crucial role in safeguarding confidential information.NDAs define confidential terms and are widely recognised in business transactions.They are either unilateral or mutual, depending on the nature of information exchange.While effective, enforcing NDAs can be complex and costly.Customised NDAs maximise efficacy and instil confidence in business engagements.Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are pivotal in the protection of confidential information within various business transactions. These contracts regulate how sensitive information is handled, often preventing unauthorised access or sharing with competitors. Commonly, NDAs are either unilateral, where one party shares confidential data, or mutual, involving a reciprocal exchange of confidential information.…
Businesses are urged to break the stigma surrounding mental health to create open communication environments.Remote work has led to feelings of isolation among employees, making social activities crucial.Managers should lead by example, promoting self-care and regular check-ins to support mental health.Encouraging team activities can help employees feel more connected and supported at work.Simple personal habits can significantly enhance employee stress management and overall mental well-being.There is an increasing call for businesses to address the stigma around mental health, encouraging more open conversations in the workplace. Leaders are in a prime position to cultivate an environment where employees feel safe to…