Author: Sam Allcock

Recent research highlights significant pandemic-induced challenges within deskless industries across the UK.A majority of workers in manufacturing, care, construction, and retail report negative impacts from ongoing pandemic effects.Notably, 30% of these employees perceive a decline in operational efficiency due to their companies’ pandemic responses.Employee satisfaction has deteriorated, with over one-third reporting a worse experience compared to pre-2020 levels.Policy changes implemented during the pandemic remain prevalent, yet have sparked concerns over reduced personal interactions and training opportunities.Recent research unveils substantial challenges within the UK’s ‘deskless’ industries—sectors such as manufacturing, care, construction, and retail—where 59% of workers believe that ongoing pandemic effects…

The House of Fraser store in Birmingham undergoes a significant transformation into an outlet shop.Prices are reduced by an additional 20%, urging customers to purchase quickly as all stock must go.The top three floors have been closed, consolidating the shopping area to enhance efficiency.Clothing displays transition from tables to rails, altering the shopping experience.The store’s operational focus shifts to providing discounted goods efficiently in a more compact space.The transition of the House of Fraser store in Birmingham to an outlet store marks a significant shift in the retailer’s strategy. The iconic store on Corporation Street now offers its products at…

House of Fraser has revamped its Corporation Street store in Birmingham into a discount outlet. This shift includes significant structural changes and a new sales approach.The top three floors of the building, historically known as Rackhams, are now closed.Customers can enjoy a 20% price reduction at the tills, emphasising a ‘must go’ policy for all stock.Adjustments include relocation of footwear displays to maximize space on the ground floor.These strategic changes mark a significant transformation for the store, originally acquired in 2003.House of Fraser has restructured its Corporation Street premises in Birmingham to operate as an outlet store, marking a notable…

Ensuring the long-term success of a business requires more than its initial setup; it demands continuous effort and strategic planning. Here are four essential tips to help maintain your business’s longevity.Effective organisation and skill development in leadership are pivotal to a business’s ongoing success.Investing in your staff enhances their contribution and ensures your business adapts to changing needs.Understanding competitors allows for strategic positioning and differentiation in the market.Customer prioritisation is crucial, influencing repeat business and sustained success.The journey of running a business does not end with its inception; maintaining its momentum over time presents a significant challenge. Effective organisational skills…

The representation of women in leadership roles has seen improvement but still lags behind men. The article explores essential strategies for fostering female leadership in the corporate world.In the UK, female representation in boardrooms of FTSE 100 companies has increased from 12.5% to nearly 40% over a decade, yet female CEOs remain scarce.Development programmes tailored for women are crucial to enhance skills, confidence, and future leadership potential.Active recruitment and equitable opportunity provision for women in workplaces are vital for progress.Company culture and equal opportunity in leading projects significantly impact female career advancement.Over recent decades, the presence of women in leadership…

Bringing dogs into the office can significantly improve workplace morale and productivity.Workplace solutions expert Adam Butler discusses the impact of office dogs on employee retention and wellbeing.Dr Linda Simon highlights the best dog breeds suited for office environments.Certain breeds are preferred due to their low energy and minimal shedding.Choosing the right dog can help mitigate stress and promote social support in the workplace.Bringing dogs into the office can significantly improve workplace morale and productivity. Adam Butler, a workplace solutions specialist, suggests that allowing dogs in the office is an enticing benefit that enhances employee retention and happiness. Studies have shown…

The utilities sector has witnessed significant efforts towards gender inclusivity, yet challenges persist.Despite progress, the utilities industry remains male-dominated, with only 17% female staff, due to societal biases.Employers are urged to provide equal opportunities for women, ensuring access to roles and professional growth.HR departments can dismantle systemic barriers by addressing pay disparities and fostering an inclusive culture.International Women in Engineering Day serves as a reflection point for long-term improvements in supporting female staff.Historically, the utilities sector has been predominantly male-centric, echoing other industries reliant on physical labour. Current statistics reveal that only 17% of employees in the energy and utilities…

Clipper Logistics has reached an agreement for a potential £940 million takeover by GXO Logistics, highlighting a significant strategic move in the logistics industry.The deal involves a cash-and-share offer with Clipper’s board recommending the terms proposed by GXO, although a firm offer is yet to be made.Clipper’s clients, including prominent brands like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, and Asda, are likely to be impacted by this substantial acquisition.The logistics sector, particularly in warehousing, has seen rapid growth, driven by a surge in online shopping during the pandemic.Clipper’s share value saw a remarkable increase, reflecting investor enthusiasm for the proposed acquisition.Clipper…

The COVID-19 pandemic forced companies to adopt remote work almost overnight, leaving HR departments grappling with increased workloads.AI and automation have emerged as crucial tools in streamlining HR processes during this transition, enhancing efficiency.Companies are increasingly relying on AI to manage recruitment tasks, improve employee query handling, and monitor performance.The adoption of AI in HR is poised to grow significantly, driven by its ability to handle routine tasks effectively.Rather than replacing HR roles, AI and automation augment HR capabilities, enabling a focus on employee engagement.The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically transformed the workplace landscape. Organisations were compelled to embrace remote work…

A new report reveals over half of UK employees willing to switch jobs for better burnout support.Despite most managers believing they can identify stress, a significant gap exists in perceived support.With the Great Resignation ongoing, businesses are under pressure to retain talent amidst rising burnout.HR directors admit performance management is losing focus, heightening the burnout issue.The virtual shift intensifies workload stress, reducing informal performance management opportunities.A recent report indicates that a significant number of UK employees are prepared to leave their current positions in pursuit of workplaces offering superior support for stress and burnout. The findings underscore the critical importance…