Author: Sam Allcock

Organisations are urged to enhance workplace collaboration to adapt to technological advances and workforce changes.Modern collaboration tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams centralise communication and task management.Video conferencing platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet facilitate virtual face-to-face interactions, vital for remote working.Creating a culture of open communication and diverse teams fosters innovative solutions.Investing in training and leadership development equips employees with essential collaboration skills.As technological advancements reshape today’s work environments, organisations are encouraged to prioritise collaboration to drive success. Modern tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams have transformed the way teams communicate and manage projects, providing a central hub…

In today’s competitive job market, employers are increasingly conducting background and criminal record checks to make informed hiring decisions. These checks are particularly essential in industries handling sensitive information or vulnerable populations.Employers must understand the various criminal record checks available, including Criminal Record Checks, Enhanced Police Information Checks, and Vulnerable Sector Checks.Social media background checks are also becoming common, helping employers evaluate cultural fit and potential risks.To ensure fairness and legality, obtaining informed consent and protecting candidate privacy during checks is crucial.Employers must interpret results fairly, considering factors such as the nature and relevance of the offence, and discuss concerns…

Fire safety is crucial in workplaces, yet many UK employees lack understanding of fire door use.A survey by CE Safety reveals 34% of office workers do not know fire doors should remain closed unless equipped with specific mechanisms.Issues with fire doors are common, with 75% failing to meet standards, complicating their effectiveness in emergencies.Fire door faults identified include cracked glass, missing screws, and gaps around frames, which undermine their safety functions.Training on fire doors is insufficient, with 35% of workers not shown fire exit routes, stressing the need for improved safety protocols.Fire safety in workplaces is a critical aspect that…

In the UK, nearly one third of tenancies face deposit deductions, risking significant financial loss for tenants. Discover straightforward measures to protect your deposit when you move out.A staggering 13% of tenants could lose their entire deposit, averaging around £1,434 in losses.Common issues like property damage and cleanliness play a major role in deductions from deposits.Timely communication with landlords about damage and maintenance is crucial to avoid costly repairs.Inventory and honesty are essential practices to safeguard your deposits while maintaining good landlord relations.Tenants moving out look forward to getting their deposits back, yet in the UK, nearly one third of…

Drapers has commenced its annual search for the rising stars of fashion retail in 2025, marking its 16th year of celebration.The initiative aims to spotlight young talent bringing fresh ideas and creativity to the fashion industry.Entry is open to those aged 30 or under as of 31 January 2025, who are making notable contributions in various areas within fashion retail.Past alumni include prominent figures such as Ben Francis and Priya Ahluwalia, reflecting the prestige associated with this recognition.Interested candidates must submit their nominations by 14 October, detailing their unique contributions and impact.Drapers has opened submissions for its renowned “30 Under…

The UK’s GDP experienced a modest rise, highlighting varied economic trends.The UK’s GDP increased by 0.6% from April to June 2024.This growth follows a stronger rise of 0.7% in the first quarter of the year.While overall services saw growth, consumer-facing services slightly declined.Key sectors like real estate and retail faced significant decreases.The UK’s GDP saw a modest increase of 0.6% in the second quarter of 2024, building on a growth rate of 0.7% in the first quarter, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This indicates sustained, yet slightly slowed, economic expansion during the period.In detail, the services sector…

The UK’s love affair with Scandinavian fashion faces challenges. Recent closures of Danish brand offices raise questions about sustainability in the UK market. Amidst high operational costs, Danish labels are reassessing their UK presence. Some boutiques flourish with selective Scandinavian offerings. Rising costs and strategic refocusing drive Danish brands’ UK market adjustments.In recent years, UK consumers have been captivated by the distinctive designs of Scandinavian fashion, characterised by maximalist occasion dresses and high-quality basics from brands such as Ganni, Wood Wood, and Stine Goya. These appealing designs have become fixtures in both major department stores and independent boutiques across the…

Boohoo Group is harnessing cutting-edge AI technology to stay ahead in the retail industry, according to their digital director, Jonny Longden.The ‘mob wife’ trend on social media has significantly impacted UK retail sales, emphasising the power of virtual trends.Jonny Longden highlights the potential of AI tools in aligning products with emerging trends to capture consumer interest.Retailers can benefit by integrating AI to predict and respond to fashion trends, enhancing customer engagement.Explore insights on leveraging AI effectively in fashion retail through the latest Drapers Talks podcast.Boohoo Group’s digital director, Jonny Longden, has been at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into…

Recent online ads for nutrition brands Huel and Zoe were banned.Steven Bartlett’s endorsements were deemed misleading by the ASA.Bartlett’s financial ties to the brands were not disclosed.Adverts failed to inform consumers of Bartlett’s investor and director roles.The ASA concluded that ads could wrongly influence consumer decisions.In a significant move, online advertisements for the nutrition brands Zoe and Huel have been prohibited following endorsements by the prominent entrepreneur, Steven Bartlett. His social media endorsements, which ran in February and March, included positive statements about the products, but the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) found them to be misleading due to a lack…

Georgina Gibbon’s recent appointment to Rollits LLP’s property department marks a significant career shift for this experienced solicitor.Georgina began her legal journey at her grandfather’s firm, BG Solicitors LLP, where she specialized in property law.Her expertise in conveyancing and property matters is set to enhance the services provided by Rollits LLP.Georgina’s transition to Rollits brings her extensive regional experience from Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire to a broader client base.Rollits LLP anticipates her contribution will bolster their already strong client service reputation.Georgina Gibbon has recently joined the property department at Rollits LLP, marking a promising new chapter in her professional journey.…