Author: Sam Allcock

ActiveOps, based in Reading, seeks to expand its marketing team to drive growth.The firm reported a strong increase in profits in the latter half of the year.Five new hires are set for the UK, South Africa, and North America in late 2024.Anticipated further investments in Canada aim for top-line growth by October 2025.Shares in the company dropped despite a significant revenue increase.ActiveOps, a company headquartered in Reading, announced plans to enhance its marketing team with the goal of accelerating client acquisition. By expanding its workforce, the firm intends to capitalise on recent profitability gains. The decision to grow follows a…

Claire McColgan is set to expand her influence in the Liverpool City Region, leveraging her extensive cultural expertise to enhance the area’s creative landscape.The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Liverpool City Council have agreed to share the Director of Culture role, marking a significant shift in regional cultural strategy.McColgan, a key figure in Liverpool’s cultural development for over two decades, is enthusiastic about the chances to integrate the region’s diverse cultural assets.The appointment aligns with the region’s broader aim to boost its cultural and visitor economy by fostering a thriving cultural scene.Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region,…

The UK is rapidly moving forward with new cryptocurrency regulations in response to growing interest in the US market. With Trump’s recent policies attracting digital investments, the UK aims to secure its position in the global digital economy.These developments are crucial as the UK strives to balance fostering innovation while ensuring adequate regulatory frameworks. The focus remains on creating an environment where businesses can thrive without sacrificing stability or legal clarity.Stablecoin Legislation Aims to Fortify MarketThe UK government is swiftly advancing stablecoin regulations to stabilise its market in response to shifting dynamics in the United States. Two major bills are…

A recent study unveils gaming’s evolution from a solitary activity to a rich global social engagement.Platforms such as Discord, Twitch, and Reddit have significantly influenced gaming’s transformation.An overwhelming 64% of gamers feel more expressively free online compared to real-life scenarios.A rising preference is noted for brands aiding in merging gaming personas with real-world identities.Resistance towards ‘pay-to-win’ mechanics contrasts with willingness to invest in cosmetic gaming enhancements.The gaming landscape is undergoing a major shift, evolving from individual play into a vibrant global social scene. This transformation is largely attributed to the influence of social platforms like Discord, Twitch, and Reddit, which…

Co-op is taking a strategic step to strengthen member engagement and ownership through a series of pop-up cafés located in major cities such as Edinburgh, Cardiff, and London.These events aim to assist members in gaining a deeper understanding of the business model they are part of, as well as the advantages of being a member-owner. The initiative is a part of Co-op’s broader campaign, ‘Owned by You. Right By You,’ launched earlier this year to highlight the benefits of cooperative membership to individuals and their communities.Dominic Kendal-Ward, Co-op’s group secretary and general counsel, emphasised, “Co-op is a different way of…

Key players in the UK tech sector have expressed support for pension reform plans proposed by Rachel Reeves.The proposed reforms aim to consolidate pension schemes into eight larger funds, encouraging investment in fast-growth businesses.These changes could lead to £80bn in investment for new ventures and infrastructure, boosting economic growth.Current UK pension strategies are compared to more successful models in Australia and Canada, which invest heavily in growth assets.The reforms are intended to benefit both emerging industries and pension savers with higher returns.A group of leading UK tech organisations, including the Startup Coalition and Tech Nation, have rallied their support behind…

In a strategic business decision, Just Eat has finalised the sale of its American division, Grubhub, to the emerging food delivery service Wonder for a notable sum of $650 million (£502.5 million). This transaction signifies a stark reduction from the $7.3 billion (£5.73 billion) initially invested by Just Eat in acquiring Grubhub four years ago.The sale of Grubhub marks the end of a tumultuous chapter for Just Eat, which initially saw the acquisition as a promising expansion into the lucrative United States market. However, Grubhub’s performance did not meet expectations, particularly after the pandemic-induced surge in demand for rapid delivery…

Just Eat has completed the sale of its US subsidiary, Grubhub, to the startup food delivery company Wonder for $650 million (£502.5 million), marking a major shift in the company’s strategy.The sale arrives over two years after Just Eat initially signalled its intention to offload Grubhub, which faced challenges in maintaining momentum post the pandemic-driven surge in delivery services. The decision to sell comes as Just Eat aims to streamline its operations and focus on bolstering growth, a strategy highlighted by the sale’s impact on its share price, which has increased nearly 20% since the transaction was announced.Chief Executive Officer…

As Christmas Day approaches, UK supermarkets are strategising their approach to the festive season amidst ongoing economic pressures.Many consumers, mindful of current economic constraints, are planning more diligently for the holiday season. According to Simon Roberts, CEO of a major supermarket, customers have begun purchasing gifts earlier, with substantial early orders for festive foods. The retailer has increased its delivery options to accommodate this trend, ensuring that families can access all they need for a memorable Christmas.Similarly, at another popular chain, CEO Stuart Machin notes an increasing number of shoppers are opting to pre-order and shop in advance, as evidenced…

Guy Podjarny, the founder of Tessl, has successfully raised $125 million in a Series A funding round to enhance AI-driven software development.The valuation of Tessl has now surged to $750 million, marking a significant milestone for the UK-based company.The funding will aid in platform development and accelerate hiring in AI research, product design, and engineering.Tessl aims to revolutionise software creation by letting AI handle coding while developers focus on problem-solving.The UK continues to establish itself as a premier destination for tech investments, as highlighted by this latest development.Guy Podjarny, known for founding the cybersecurity firm Snyk, has raised $125 million…