Author: Sam Allcock

Double Eleven, a Middlesbrough-based game developer, launches its first original IP, Blindfire, marking a significant milestone for the company.Blindfire is available on Xbox and PC, with a PlayStation 5 version expected later in the year.The company, previously known for co-development, takes a bold step with its first entirely original creation.Blindfire offers a unique gameplay experience where stealth, sound, and strategy are vital for success.The game is currently in early access, with plans for ongoing development based on community feedback.Double Eleven, a renowned gaming company based in Middlesbrough, has made headlines with the release of its first original intellectual property (IP),…

The Prolific North Tech Companies to Watch list for 2024 highlights promising tech start-ups in the North of England and Scotland.The event, hosted in Manchester, revealed 15 rising companies identified through submissions and research based on ingenuity, market uptake, and funding.Attendees had the opportunity to network and listen to industry experts like Jack Maher and Alexander Brooks-Sykes discuss innovation and growth.Notable companies like Decently, North AI, and Sum Vivas shared insights into their cutting-edge initiatives.A panel session offered valuable advice on attracting investors, emphasising the importance of networking and strategic planning.The Prolific North Tech Companies to Watch list for 2024…

Oatly has made a significant move by partnering with UK-based Black Sheep Coffee in a multi-year agreement, marking a new chapter in its expansion strategy.The collaboration signifies Oatly’s commitment to broadening its product range, with the introduction of a larger 1.5-litre oat milk pack specifically designed for professional baristas. This initiative comes in response to the growing demand within coffee outlets for larger quantities of plant-based milk, aiming to reduce waste and improve efficiency.Bryan Carroll, Oatly’s general manager, expressed that this strategic partnership is part of the company’s mission to replace traditional dairy products with plant-based alternatives. He emphasised the…

Frasers Group has updated on significant developments involving N Brown Group and Mulberry, showcasing strategic investment decisions.The group has committed to supporting an acquisition of N Brown Group by Falcon 24 Topco, amidst changing ownership dynamics.Frasers Group’s stake in N Brown involves a major share sale, marking an important shift in shareholder structure.Efforts to take over Mulberry continue, with Frasers Group increasing its offer after initial rejection, though facing opposition from major stakeholders.Frasers Group remains in discussions, seeking feedback and engagement from stakeholders to finalise its proposals.Frasers Group has announced its agreement to back the acquisition of N Brown Group…

Oatly has embarked on a strategic expansion through a multi-year partnership with the UK coffee chain Black Sheep Coffee.The renowned plant-based milk company has decided to broaden its product offerings by introducing a 1.5-litre pack of oat milk, a first for Oatly in the UK market. This initiative is in response to increasing customer demand, aimed at reducing waste and improving efficiency for coffee bars and baristas who use the product extensively each day.With this development, Oatly has secured its position as the default oat milk option at Black Sheep Coffee outlets. Bryan Carroll, the general manager of Oatly, explained…

World Menopause Day highlights increasing workplace challenges as tribunal cases rise.Menopause-related employment tribunals jumped by 87% between April 2023 and March 2024.The increased awareness of menopause may contribute to more cases being categorised.Employers warned of potential legal and reputational risks if they ignore menopause impacts.Proactive measures and workplace adjustments can improve employee well-being and retention.The recent World Menopause Day has brought renewed focus on the significant workplace challenges faced by individuals experiencing menopause. Data indicates a striking 87% increase in menopause-related employment tribunals from April 2023 to March 2024, reflecting growing recognition and the importance of accommodating menopause in professional…

UK retail sales increased in September, surprising analysts who had predicted a decline.The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a 0.3% rise in September retail transactions, exceeding expectations of a 0.4% drop.Despite the growth, retail sales are still 0.2% below pre-pandemic levels, indicating ongoing challenges.Technology sales were strong, while supermarket spending on luxury items decreased.Economic uncertainties persist, with upcoming tax changes and budget announcements creating concern.The UK retail sector experienced unexpected growth in September as reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), with retail transactions rising by 0.3%. This rise defied predictions of a 0.4% decline, following a robust…

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing efficiency and elevating customer experience, Sainsbury’s has commenced trials of a new hybrid self-service checkout system.The retail chain has rolled out this innovative technology in two stores, including its experimental Cobham location. These new self-service checkouts are distinguished by their incorporation of a conveyor belt, allowing customers more space when handling larger trolley loads during the scanning and packing process.Unlike traditional self-checkouts, these units include scanning devices in combination with a moving belt, fundamentally altering the self-service process. This development forms part of Sainsbury’s broader ‘Next Level’ and ‘Food First’ strategies, focused on…

Employers are increasingly recognising the need for dedicated menopause support.Research indicates one in five employers anticipate growing demand for menopause support.Around 6 million UK workers are affected by menopause, impacting their professional lives.Education about menopause is crucial for creating an understanding workplace environment.Providing support leads to retention of experienced staff and enhanced productivity.Employers across the UK are becoming increasingly aware of the necessity to support employees going through menopause. According to research by Towergate Employee Benefits, 20% of employers expect a heightened demand for female-specific support in relation to menopause, especially with the upcoming World Menopause Day on 18 October.The…

The ongoing trademark dispute between Iceland Foods and the Icelandic government has entered its latest phase.The European Union’s General Court in Luxembourg saw the supermarket’s latest appeal.This legal challenge follows a 2019 ruling that removed Iceland’s EU trademark protection.Iceland Foods argues its longstanding use of the name refers to ‘land of ice’, not the nation.The legal proceedings, ongoing since 2016, are described as crucial by Iceland Foods.Iceland Foods has initiated a new appeal against the Icelandic government in the ongoing legal dispute concerning the trademark of the word ‘Iceland’. The situation escalated to the General Court of the European Union,…