Author: Sam Allcock

Lee Simpson steps into a pivotal role at Smoking Gun as the new Senior Account Director.Simpson brings extensive experience from his previous roles at Skout and Fourth Day.He will work alongside Caroline Aspinall to enhance Smoking Gun’s B2B capabilities.Simpson expresses excitement over contributing to the agency’s reputation and growth.Caroline Aspinall highlights the potential for leveraging Simpson’s tech expertise.Lee Simpson has been appointed as the Senior Account Director at Smoking Gun, marking a significant step in his career. Previously, Simpson served as the Head of Technology Practice at Skout and also worked with Fourth Day, bringing with him a wealth of…

Filming has commenced for ‘Transaction’, a new comedy series on ITVX.The series is created by and stars Jordan Gray, a celebrated comedy artist.Nick Frost, known for ‘Hot Fuzz’, co-stars alongside Gray.Set in Hartlepool, the series is backed by the North East Screen Industries Partnership.’Transaction’ explores themes of identity and workplace dynamics through humour.Filming is underway for ‘Transaction’, a promising new addition to ITVX’s comedy lineup. Created by Jordan Gray, the series has already drawn attention for its innovative premise and engaging humour. Filming is taking place in Hartlepool, supported by the North East Screen Industries Partnership, which highlights regional talent…

Razorblue appoints Mo Aneese as Non-Executive Chairman to fuel its growth ambitions.Aneese brings extensive sector experience, having held leadership roles at significant tech companies.Razorblue aims to double its £20m turnover in the next five years, focusing on both organic expansion and acquisitions.The company operates from Teesside, with multiple offices across Northern England and Scotland.Aneese will guide the strategic direction, talent acquisition, and strategic M&A while maintaining company independence.Managed IT services company, Razorblue, has announced the appointment of Mo Aneese as its Non-Executive Chairman. This strategic move is part of the company’s growth ambitions. Aneese has a rich background, having served…

The Drapers Awards, held in London, successfully raised £7,100 for the Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT), a charity aiding families in the UK fashion and textile sectors.Comedian Josh Widdicombe hosted the event, ensuring an engaging evening for attendees.Generous luxury prizes were donated for the charity raffle and champagne draw by esteemed brands.The funds will directly assist in providing essential items for children, including clothing and furniture.FTCT CEO Anna Pangbourne highlighted the significant impact of the donations on supporting families in need.The Drapers Awards, now celebrating their 33rd year, took place in the distinguished Honourable Artillery Company venue in London.…

Industry leaders and new talents converged in Liverpool for Develop:North.Discussions highlighted growth and challenges in Liverpool’s £220m gaming sector.Key sessions explored business strategies and skill development.Emphasis on collaboration and government support for the Northern gaming industry.Calls for increased visibility and recognition of regional gaming achievements.In a significant move for the gaming industry, Develop:North hosted its first event in Liverpool, bringing together leaders and emerging talent from across the North. The one-day summit aimed to provide industry insights and explore opportunities for growth.The event took place at The Spine in Liverpool’s Paddington Village on 14 November. It marked a shift from…

Lidl is set to substantially increase its investment in the British food industry, aiming to reach £21 billion by the end of 2024. This ambitious goal surpasses its initial target by 40%, marking a significant commitment to British suppliers and agriculture.In a formidable move, Lidl has already allocated £5 billion this year across various sectors. The focus is on sourcing two-thirds of its permanent product range from British suppliers. Notably, all fresh milk, butter, cream, eggs, pork, chicken, and beef are now sourced domestically. This shift underscores Lidl’s commitment to supporting national agriculture and ensuring a consistent supply of British…

Lidl is poised to surpass its initial investment target by 40%, reaching £21 billion in the British food sector by the end of 2024.In an ambitious move, Lidl has dedicated £5 billion this year to further embed itself within the British food industry. This year’s investments have primarily focused on transforming two-thirds of its permanent product range to British-sourced goods, including staples such as fresh milk, butter, cream, eggs, pork, chicken, and beef.Richard Bourns, Lidl’s chief commercial officer, reflecting on 30 years of Lidl’s presence in Great Britain, noted the significant achievements in building robust relationships with British suppliers. He…

Typhoo Tea, a longstanding UK tea brand, finds itself on the brink of financial collapse as it appoints administrators to explore potential rescue options.Facing mounting debt, Typhoo Tea has filed a notice to appoint administrators from EY, according to recent court documents. This strategic move aims to facilitate the sale of the business, as revealed by the new chief executive, Dave McNulty, who emphasised the necessity of this action for future prospects.In the past year, Typhoo’s sales have dramatically decreased by 26%, plummeting from £34m in 2022 to a mere £25m. Simultaneously, the company’s losses have surged, escalating to £38m…

ITV has announced the second series of ‘After the Flood’, following the show’s successful first season.Filming will commence in Greater Manchester and Derbyshire, featuring returning actors Sophie Rundle and Philip Glenister.Executive Producers express excitement over continuing the series with an engaging new murder mystery.The forthcoming season will explore the dynamics of a detective amid unforeseen challenges.The production, led by Quay Street, promises another captivating storyline.ITV has greenlit a second series of the acclaimed drama ‘After the Flood’, following its initial success with audiences. Filming is slated to begin in Greater Manchester and Derbyshire next year, ensuring a familiar backdrop for…

Lidl is set to surpass its initial investment goals in the UK food sector.The retailer plans to invest £21bn by the end of 2024, 40% more than originally intended.Lidl’s product range is largely sourced from British suppliers, emphasising home-grown goods.A new Grassroots Farming Conference will focus on important agricultural topics.Richard Bourns highlights the importance of supporting British agricultural partners.Lidl is poised to significantly enhance its investment in the British food sector, with plans to allocate £21 billion by the close of 2024. This marks a substantial 40% increase over its original five-year target of £15 billion. The German discounter, in…