A major investigation reveals possible discrepancies in ‘Italian’ tomato purée products sold in UK supermarkets.Leading supermarkets faced backlash after being linked to tomatoes originating from China, potentially involving forced labour.The BBC investigation found tomatoes in these products may have been sourced from China’s Xinjiang province.Supermarkets including Tesco, Waitrose, Asda, and Morrisons are involved, with varied responses to the findings.Despite denials from some retailers, the investigation has prompted further scrutiny and testing.Several UK supermarkets are under intense scrutiny following a BBC investigation into the origins of tomatoes used in ‘Italian’ tomato purée products. The probe suggests that some of these products,…
Author: Sam Allcock
Sofology Managing Director Emma Dinnis is set to resign as DFS integrates its management teams for a streamlined approach.DFS aims to simplify its leadership structure as part of its strategic focus on efficiency and growth.Emma Dinnis, along with other key leaders, will step down by the end of the month.Nick Smith will assume the role of Group Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, leading Sofology’s new structure.The transition is slated for completion by 1st January, 2025, with new leaders poised to enhance operational synergy.Emma Dinnis, the Managing Director of Sofology, will be stepping down as part of a major organisational shift…
As technology pushes forward, so do the tactics of those who commit payment fraud. Here’s a look at how secure payment systems are more vital than ever.The rapid growth of ecommerce in the UK has coincided with a significant rise in payment fraud, highlighting an urgent need for vigilance.Financial institutions face immense pressures to maintain trust by protecting their customers from fraud, necessitating robust systems.Collaborative efforts between payment providers and social media platforms are crucial in tackling emerging threats.Educating users on the latest fraud techniques and promoting secure practices is essential to combating fraud.As technology evolves, fraudsters gain advanced tools,…
Research from NGP Capital uncovers distinguishing traits of successful startup founders.Higher education significantly impacts funding success, with PhDs and MBAs leading the way.The academic pedigree of founders greatly influences the amount of capital raised.Experience in founding or working for consulting firms also boosts funding outcomes.International diversity and the number of co-founders play crucial roles in startup funding.A report by NGP Capital, analysing over 17,000 European tech startups, has shed light on the key characteristics that correlate with successful fundraising. With startups struggling to secure investment, understanding these traits could be crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs.The study highlights that founders with advanced…
The SEC stands on the brink of a major transition, with a new chairperson set to be announced. This change could reshape crypto regulations. As the anticipation builds, industry experts and stakeholders look on with both hope and apprehension.Gary Gensler’s tenure at the SEC has been marked by significant shifts, especially in crypto regulation. His departure opens a new chapter, potentially aligning with Trump’s pro-crypto stance. With this upcoming announcement, the crypto community braces for potential new directions.Gensler’s Tenure and its Crypto ImpactDuring his tenure, Gary Gensler led the SEC through a transformative period, particularly in its approach to cryptocurrency.…
Tilly and Ted, a Cheshire-based online homeware store, has secured a significant £55,000 loan to boost its business operations.The funding comes from NPIF II with a focus on scaling up operations and increasing product margins.Founded by Louise Ward during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tilly and Ted bridges high-end designs and mid-range prices.With a 53% year-on-year growth, the store plans to enhance its digital marketing and expand internationally.This strategic financial move aims to tap into new markets and widen the store’s product range.Tilly and Ted, an online store specialising in high-quality homewares, has acquired a £55,000 loan from the Northern Powerhouse Investment…
Mike Ashley is facing a legal dispute with HM Revenue & Customs over data protection issues.The High Court heard claims that Ashley was ‘stonewalled’ after seeking data related to a tax dispute.The dispute arose after HMRC demanded an additional £13.6m in taxes from Ashley.The Frasers Group founder alleges extensive breaches of data protection by HMRC.HMRC admits to minor breaches but is contesting Ashley’s wider claims.The High Court recently heard a case involving Mike Ashley, the founder of Frasers Group, who is in a legal battle with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). The dispute centres around allegations of HMRC withholding personal…
The world of cryptocurrency is ever-dynamic, with certain assets frequently capturing the spotlight. As 2024 concludes, XRP emerges as a major player, sparking widespread interest. Historically significant, the coin recently surpassed its previous high, stirring discussions of potential future growth.Amidst unprecedented shifts, XRP’s journey illustrates the volatility inherent in digital currencies. Its rise to the third-largest cryptocurrency underscores the impact of market dynamics and investor confidence. This progression not only captivates enthusiasts but also invites analysis from experts predicting future trends.XRP’s Predicted SurgeCrypto analyst JackTheRippler has forecasted a significant upward trend for XRP, expecting it to reach a three-digit value…
Recent figures indicate a challenging start to the festive period for fashion retailers.Sales in November declined by 3.3% compared to the previous year, highlighting weak consumer spending.Non-food retail suffered, with significant drops in both physical and online sales.The shift in Black Friday spending to December has skewed traditional sales patterns.Rising energy costs and low consumer confidence have further impacted retail performance.According to the latest data from the BRC-KPMG retail sales monitor, November saw a significant downturn in retail sales, decreasing by 3.3% compared to the same period in the previous year. This decline reflects broader issues within consumer spending habits,…
Charity Super.Mkt is expanding to meet the increasing demand for secondhand clothing.New pop-up stores will open in cities like Edinburgh, Leeds, Sheffield, and London.The initiative has already achieved remarkable sales figures since its debut in January 2023.Co-founder Wayne Hemingway emphasises the importance of secondhand fashion amid fast fashion competition.Shoppers seek quality and vintage items, showing a shift away from fast fashion trends.Charity Super.Mkt is gearing up for a significant expansion. The organisation plans to launch new pop-up stores in key cities across the UK, including Edinburgh, Leeds, Sheffield, and London’s Canary Wharf. This move aims to tap into the growing…