Author: Sam Allcock

The ongoing dispute between the European Union and Elon Musk has intensified, with top EU official Věra Jourová labelling Musk a ‘promoter of evil.’Jourová’s accusation focuses on Musk’s lax online moderation policies on X, formerly Twitter, which she claims facilitate harmful content.The EU has criticised Musk’s handling of antisemitism and online misinformation, pressing X to comply with its Digital Services Act.Amidst these tensions, Musk has suggested he might restrict access to X within the EU, escalating the conflict.This confrontation reflects broader concerns about how online platforms are regulated across Europe.In a noteworthy development, the European Union’s top official, Věra Jourová,…

Kirsty’s collaborates with Live & Breathe for an innovative growth campaign, signalling a new phase for the brand.The partnership emphasises the expansion of Kirsty’s brand portfolio and the introduction of new high-protein meals.Live & Breathe’s role encompasses strategy, design, and social media to enhance Kirsty’s visibility.The collaboration aims to tap into a broader consumer demographic with Prep’d Protein range.Kirsty’s remains committed to quality and allergen-free products, enhancing its market reach.Kirsty’s, a brand known for its allergen-free food products, has embarked on an ambitious growth campaign by teaming up with Leeds-based creative agency Live & Breathe. This collaboration marks a strategic…

William Tunstall-Pedoe, the innovative force behind Amazon’s Alexa, critiques current AI implementations, signalling a widespread issue in efficiency and reliability.He claims that most mid-to-large businesses are not executing AI integration successfully.The failure often lies in machine learning components that lack the necessary reliability and trust.Tunstall-Pedoe’s venture, Unlikely AI, seeks to remedy these AI shortcomings for high-risk sectors.Backed by significant investments, Unlikely AI aims for a trustworthy and explainable AI solution.In a recent discussion, William Tunstall-Pedoe, known for inventing Amazon’s voice assistant Alexa, expressed concerns over how companies are currently integrating AI into their systems. He highlighted a significant discrepancy between…

The Cleve Hill solar farm, initially intended for residential power, will supply Tesco and Shell with energy.65% of the solar farm’s output will be channelled to Tesco supermarkets, aiding their sustainability goals.Shell will utilise the remaining 35% of energy to enhance its electric vehicle charging infrastructure.Cleve Hill’s development has faced local opposition due to its impact on the Graveney Marshes.The project underscores the ongoing tension between ecological preservation and corporate energy demands.The Cleve Hill solar farm, covering 860 acres of the Kent coast near Faversham, is set to provide significant power outputs to major corporations. Originally planned to support 100,000…

Cairn has reached a significant milestone, marking its £1 million turnover after its first year in business.The agency has successfully expanded its team and moved to new offices in Sale.Cairn has established a notable presence in diverse market sectors, including homes, property, and manufacturing.The company has undertaken several important branding projects and expanded contracts with key clients.Co-founders Will English and Andy Wood share insights into their successful year and future aspirations.Cairn, a full-service agency based in Manchester, has reported a remarkable turnover of £1 million within its first year of operations. This achievement comes alongside their recent move to new…

Ryanair may cut UK flights if aviation taxes rise, warns CEO Michael O’Leary.Ryanair’s CEO cautions that increased Air Passenger Duty (APD) could drastically affect passenger demand.Domestic routes in the UK are at risk of becoming financially unviable due to potential tax hikes.The Chancellor’s budget proposal could impact Ryanair’s growth and investment plans in the UK.Ryanair is closely monitoring government decisions on taxation, affecting aviation and tourism sectors.Ryanair has issued a warning regarding potential reductions in its UK flight operations if the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, opts to increase aviation taxes in the upcoming budget. CEO Michael O’Leary emphasised the detrimental impact…

John Lewis is set to significantly expand its fashion sector as part of a bold strategy for growth.Executive director Peter Ruis has announced plans to double the fashion business at John Lewis, viewing market consolidation as a lucrative opportunity.Ruis highlights a transition towards high-end offerings, aiming to entice customers previously interested in other retail sectors.The reintroduction of the ‘Never Knowingly Undersold’ pledge aligns with eCommerce platforms, enhancing the brand’s competitive edge.Notable store refurbishments, including the iconic Peter Jones store, are on the horizon to attract a global customer base.John Lewis is poised to transform its fashion business with ambitions to…

In a major stride towards sustainability, Tesco has entered into an unprecedented agreement to procure solar energy sufficient to power 144 of its large-scale stores. This marks the largest corporate solar power purchase agreement in the United Kingdom to date.The retail giant has committed to acquiring nearly two-thirds of the electricity produced at the Cleve Hill solar park in Kent, a project valued at £450 million, developed by Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners. With over 560,000 solar panels set to be installed, this initiative is poised to make a significant impact on the UK’s renewable energy landscape, with EDF providing crucial power…

Brewdog, a major player in the brewing industry, has reported a significant increase in operating losses, totalling nearly £60 million, despite a rise in gross sales.The company’s pre-tax losses have notably doubled from £30 million in the previous year to £59.2 million in 2023. However, Brewdog’s gross sales have increased by 11%, climbing from £321 million to £355 million. This growth is largely attributed to advancements in its grocery sector, following the launch of three new major beers: Wingman, Shore Leave, and Black Heart, in 2023.Brewdog has successfully captured a substantial share of the UK grocery market, with Black Heart…

The UK Space Agency is advancing satellite sustainability by funding a pivotal refuelling project.A £1m grant is dedicated to collaboration between Magdrive and Orbit Fab.The partnership focuses on using in-space metal for satellite refuelling, enhancing cost-effectiveness and sustainability.Magdrive’s innovative SuperMagdrive thruster plays a central role in this project.This initiative is part of the National Space Innovation Programme, unveiled at an international congress.The UK Space Agency has taken a significant step towards enhancing the sustainability of space travel by granting £1 million to a project led by space technology companies Magdrive and Orbit Fab. The collaboration aims to develop methods for…