Author: Sam Allcock

The East of England Co-op has announced the appointment of Andy Rigby as its acting Chief Executive Officer for a minimum tenure of 12 months.With a career spanning over four decades in leadership roles across the UK, EU, and international markets, Andy Rigby brings a wealth of experience to his new position. Previously serving as the Chief Operations Officer since early 2022, Rigby is now tasked with steering the convenience retailer towards its strategic goals.Joy Burnford, President of the East of England Co-op, expressed her confidence in Rigby’s leadership, describing him as a positive force for the organisation. She highlighted…

Andy Rigby has been appointed as the acting Chief Executive Officer of the East of England Co-op for a minimum of 12 months, marking a significant leadership change.Andy Rigby, who initially joined the East of England Co-op in early 2022 as the Chief Operations Officer, brings over 40 years of leadership experience to his new role. His extensive background spans senior executive positions in the UK, the EU, and international markets. This strategic move is expected to guide the Co-op through a vital phase of development and community engagement.Joy Burnford, the president of the East of England Co-op, expressed confidence…

Aldi has announced a significant expansion in the UK with a £650m investment slated for 2025, targeting an increase in store locations.The retailer aims to open about 30 new stores, with initial sites in Fulham Broadway, Billericay, and Cheadle among others.This expansion is part of Aldi’s ongoing effort to reach a target of 1,500 stores across the UK.In 2025, Aldi plans to continue its robust investment pace, following an £800m expenditure in the current year.Aldi UK and Ireland CEO, Giles Hurley, emphasises the company’s commitment to providing value with quality products at competitive prices.Aldi, the German supermarket giant, has announced…

Retailers face criticism for employing young Christmas staff on gig contracts without basic rights.Major retailers use social media apps to recruit temporary holiday workers.Gig contracts lack standard employment benefits and protections.Influencers are promoting gig work recruitment on platforms like TikTok.Concerns grow over the legal protections for gig economy workers.Retailers have recently come under scrutiny for employing young Christmas staff on gig contracts, depriving them of essential employment rights. Unions have highlighted this trend, pointing out that platforms like TikTok are being utilised for recruitment, where temporary workers are denied basic benefits and protections traditionally afforded to employees.Major retailers such as…

Ripple introduces its RLUSD stablecoin, marking a significant step in global financial landscapes. Aimed at enhancing utility and trust, this digital currency is built on compliance and transparency. The stablecoin is now accessible worldwide, backed by expert advisors. It operates on leading blockchain networks, promising reliable transactions and solid value amidst market changes.With the stablecoin’s launch, Ripple leverages its extensive background in blockchain technology and financial systems. The goal is to provide individuals and institutions with a dependable payment option. Following stringent regulatory checks, RLUSD sets a standard for new digital currency initiatives, focusing on reducing volatility while increasing market…

The latest Retail Salary and Benefits Guide reveals career progression as the most promoted perk in retail job ads.Insights from over 23 million job ads help employers create attractive compensation packages.Benchmarking salaries against industry, location, and job title averages is key to staying competitive.Adjusting remuneration to include desired benefits can improve employee engagement.Understanding candidate motivations in similar industries can expand talent pools.The Retail Salary and Benefits Guide emphasises the importance of career development, showing it as the top advertised benefit in retail job adverts. This finding highlights retail employers’ focus on offering potential growth opportunities as a strategy to attract…

Recent research has highlighted a significant growth in the wills and probate market, achieving a 7% increase this year with a valuation of £2.8 billion.In the face of declining numbers of general practice law firms, the wills and probate sector has continued its upward trajectory, largely driven by an increase in grants of representation and powers of attorney (POA) applications. This growth trend is expected to persist, with predictions of a 6% annual increase, potentially reaching a total market value of £3.6 billion by 2028.Interestingly, while traditional will-writing services have seen a reduction, the number of firms specialising in contentious…

In a decisive move, the government has dismissed concerns from compensators and legal representatives, opting to increase fees for medical reports related to road traffic accidents. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) announced the decision following a consultation that began in July 2023.The proposed changes involve raising the fees for initial medical reports from the current rate of £180 to £210. Likewise, fees for consultant orthopaedic surgeons will rise from £420 to £500, and those for accident and emergency consultants from £360 to £430. Accessing medical records will also see a cost adjustment from £30 to £35, with records holder fees…

The landscape of solicitor-client costs disputes remains largely unchanged, despite efforts by the Court of Appeal in 2022 to address these issues through the Belsner case.Few costs lawyers have reported a significant reduction in disputes between solicitors and clients. The Association of Costs Lawyers (ACL) conducted a survey among its members, which revealed that only 12% noticed fewer clients challenging solicitor bills after the Belsner ruling. This decision aimed to reduce the frequency of such disputes, but its impact appears limited.A working group within the Civil Justice Council is considering updates to the costs rules under the Solicitors Act of…

Aberfield Communications partners with Visit Leeds to amplify the city’s tourism appeal.The agency is set to produce digital content focusing on Leeds’ vibrant culture and attractions.A variety of content, including blogs and reels, will be created to engage new and returning visitors.Initial projects include an ‘Ultimate Guide to Christmas 2024′ and collaboration with Leeds Rhinos.Aberfield’s expertise in tourism campaigns makes them an ideal partner for Leeds’ Destination Management Organisation.In a strategic move to boost its tourism appeal, Leeds has engaged the services of Aberfield Communications, a local PR and brand communications agency. Their mission is to generate captivating content that…