The shift to homeworking and hybrid arrangements has surged post-pandemic, but with potential pitfalls.Remote work policies need precise definitions to prevent contractual implications.Some employers push to end remote work, citing collaboration benefits, yet face legal challenges.Employees may argue implied contract terms from long-standing homeworking practices.Consistent policy enforcement and consultation are crucial to manage flexible working.Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, remote and hybrid working arrangements have grown significantly among office-based employees. While some used homeworking temporarily during lockdowns, many have continued long-term. Employers must define these arrangements through clear policies, stipulating frequency and conditions such as performance monitoring and…
Author: Dave Antrobus
Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) training is crucial in healthcare, emphasising safety and compliance.Healthcare settings present unique challenges such as exposure to infectious diseases and physical risks.Effective training minimises risk, ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare professionals.Adherence to WHS training fosters a culture of efficiency and safety in healthcare environments.Investing in comprehensive WHS training is essential for compliance and protecting organisational assets.In the high-stakes environment of healthcare, Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) training is paramount. It is not merely a regulatory requirement but also a commitment to the protection and wellbeing of both patients and staff, ensuring a…
Plural, led by Ian Hogarth, has spearheaded a significant investment into Oriole Networks, a burgeoning AI startup in London.Oriole Networks utilises photonics technology to enhance the speed and sustainability of generative AI.The startup has successfully raised a total of $35 million this year, with $22 million secured in the latest funding round led by Plural.This innovative approach aims to train large language models up to 100 times faster while drastically reducing energy consumption.Ian Hogarth emphasises the transformative potential of Oriole’s technology for future AI infrastructure.Plural, under the leadership of Ian Hogarth, has overseen a substantial investment in Oriole Networks, a…
In a strategic response to a significant rise in demand for plant-based products, Lidl Great Britain has embarked on an ambitious expansion of its plant-based offerings.With a reported 12% increase in consumer interest over the past year, Lidl is launching its enhanced Vemondo! Plant Based range. This initiative will see the introduction of 28 new items, aiming to satisfy the burgeoning appetite for sustainable food alternatives.Lidl has firmly positioned itself as a frontrunner in the plant-based market by setting definitive sales targets to encourage the adoption of more sustainable diets. This move aligns with the global shift towards environmentally friendly…
In a significant move, WHSmith is reintroducing vinyl records across 80 UK stores, responding to the surging demand for this nostalgic music format.The return marks a nostalgic revival as vinyl records hit the shelves in cities like Canterbury, Chester, Edinburgh, and York.The resurgence of vinyl comes at a time when sales have startlingly increased, outpacing last year’s figures dramatically.WHSmith, originally a vendor of vinyl in the 1950s, had halted sales as CDs dominated; now, it embraces vinyl’s comeback enthusiastically.Commercial Director Emma Smyth is optimistic about rekindling old passions and engaging new audiences with this classic format.In a bold step forward,…
Umar Kamani, founder of PrettyLittleThing, is considering taking on the CEO role at Boohoo.The potential leadership change comes as Boohoo’s current CEO, John Lyttle, prepares to step down.Industry sources indicate that Kamani has not made any formal moves yet.Boohoo has faced recent challenges with rising costs and declining sales.The group recently secured a substantial refinancing agreement to explore future strategic options.The retail industry is abuzz with speculation as Umar Kamani, the innovative mind behind PrettyLittleThing, contemplates taking on the chief executive position at Boohoo Group. This comes in the wake of John Lyttle’s decision to resign after a five-year tenure.…
The Retail Gazette Awards celebrated key players in the retail industry with M&S, Fortnum & Mason, and Lush leading the victories.M&S was honoured as the Best Retailer over £500m with the judges lauding its return to former glories and significant profit increase.Fortnum & Mason secured the Best Retailer under £500m award for its innovative strategies and impressive customer loyalty.Lush excelled by winning both the New Store Game Changer and Sustainability Game Changer accolades.Prominent retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Boots attended the lively event in central London.The Retail Gazette Awards, distinguished for recognising exceptional retail achievements, highlighted remarkable successes with M&S,…
Holland & Barrett is set to extend its travel store estate across the UK, following the triumph of its initial ventures in strategic locations such as stations.The health and wellness leader is venturing into novel formats, successfully trialling a new kiosk in Dublin’s Jervis centre.Currently boasting five travel-specific stores, Holland & Barrett eyes further expansion in an untapped market.Property and Format Director Nick Gerrard reveals significant success at locations like London Bridge, highlighting potential for growth.The company is broadening its retail footprint with strategic shop-in-shop formats, including a recent partnership with Next.Holland & Barrett, a renowned name in the health…
Mark Wright has been appointed as the interim CEO at JoJo Maman Bébé, following the departure of CEO Gwynn Milligan. The company was founded by Laura Tenison in 1993 and has recently undergone ownership changes. Wright, formerly the COO of FatFace, will commence his role later this month. JoJo Maman Bébé recently reported financial losses.Mark Wright takes on the role of interim CEO at JoJo Maman Bébé.Former CEO Gwynn Milligan departs, having led the company since April 2022.Laura Tenison, the founder, stepped down in 2022 after nearly three decades.The business reported a loss of £672,350 for the seven months to…
Viral ‘shopping hauls’ on social media are influencing an increase in online clothing returns, leading to significant financial impacts on UK retailers. This trend reflects changing consumer behaviours driven by platforms like TikTok.Social media platforms are fueling a surge in returns.’Shopping hauls’ encourage consumers to deliberate purchases.Gen Z predominantly influences this return culture.Retailers are beginning to implement return fees to mitigate losses.The phenomenon poses long-term challenges for retail profitability.Viral ‘shopping hauls’ shared on social media platforms such as TikTok are causing a substantial increase in online returns, significantly impacting UK retailers financially. Retailers are experiencing nearly £7 billion in returns…