Author: Sam Allcock

In a significant move towards more flexible working, over a thousand UK employees are participating in a trial of a four-day workweek with no reduction in pay.The trial, organised by the 4 Day Week Campaign, follows a successful 2022 experiment where most companies permanently adopted the shorter week.Data on employee wellbeing, productivity, and burnout are being collected by top universities and institutes.The results of the trial are expected to provide insights into the viability of the four-day working model.The initiative has garnered interest from political figures, with Labour expressing support for flexible working options.In a noteworthy initiative, more than 1,000…

As Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to present the Labour government’s inaugural Budget, the grocery sector is closely watching for policies that could significantly impact their operations.In anticipation of the upcoming Budget, leaders in the grocery industry have expressed a desire for substantial reforms, particularly in the area of business rates. According to Stuart Machin, CEO of a major retail chain, the promise of overhauling business rates and providing flexibility in apprenticeship levy funds must be upheld. He notes the disparity in the retail sector, which makes up 5% of the economy yet accounts for a disproportionate share of business taxes…

In a significant expansion, the popular Italian restaurant Zizzi is set to introduce three new high-quality products in leading UK supermarkets, Tesco and Waitrose.Zizzi’s latest venture into retail sees the introduction of the Rustica Aubergine Parmigiana Pizza, which will be exclusively available at Waitrose. This exclusive product is part of Zizzi’s strategy to bring a high-end dining experience into homes across the country, providing customers with the chance to enjoy restaurant-quality meals from the comfort of their own kitchens.Additionally, Zizzi will launch the Rustica Sticky Pig Pizza and an enhanced Garlic Bread with Mozzarella in Waitrose. These offerings are designed…

Channel 4’s series ‘The Gathering’ has been cancelled after just one season due to changes in leadership priorities.The show, produced by World Productions, was set in Merseyside and revolved around a violent attack on a teenage girl during a rave.Despite achieving significant viewership numbers, with 3.2 million over 28 days and a strong premiere night, the series will not continue.The decision follows a management shake-up at Channel 4, including the departure of head of drama Caroline Hollick and 240 other roles.Vinette Robinson’s performance, alongside rising talents Eva Morgan and Sadie Soverall, marked the show’s standout acting.Channel 4’s bold drama series,…

Ukrainian activists have demanded that the Labour mayor of the West Midlands take a stand against Cadbury’s parent company due to its ongoing operations in Russia.The activists, part of the B4Ukraine group, have made a direct appeal to Richard Parker, the Labour mayor, urging him to openly criticise Mondelez, the parent company of Cadbury. This move comes amidst concerns over the company’s decision to continue its business ventures in Russia, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The activists argue that such actions contradict the founding principles of Cadbury, which are rooted in community values and fairness.During an interview in February…

Asda confronts a significant £100m rise in National Insurance Contributions, as announced in the latest Budget changes.The increase in National Insurance contributions comes as part of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ recent Budget announcements, affecting various businesses.Starting April 2025, employers like Asda will see their contributions raise from 13.8% to 15% for earnings above £175 per week.Lord Stuart Rose of Asda highlights the challenges posed by these rising costs, emphasising the pressure on the industry.Sainsbury’s CEO echoes concerns, noting similar financial pressures impacting decision-making.The latest Budget has introduced changes that will raise National Insurance contributions for employers. This adjustment will see a…

In a bid to tackle the growing concern over single-use plastic waste, Ocado and the UK Refill Coalition have expanded their Reuse range to include laundry essentials.From today, customers can purchase Reuse Non-Bio Liquid Detergent and Reuse Clear Skies Fabric Conditioner, both in 2.7-litre reusable packaging. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Refill Coalition to develop packaging solutions that mitigate the environmental impact of single-use items, with the ultimate aim of transforming customer shopping habits.Ocado’s introduction of these laundry products follows the successful launch of pasta and rice in reusable containers earlier this year. These products…

Zizzi is set to enhance its presence in the UK grocery sector by introducing three new products in Tesco and Waitrose, as part of its at-home dining range.The Italian restaurant chain Zizzi, known for its authentic cuisine, will debut three new products in Tesco and Waitrose. These offerings are part of Zizzi’s strategy to provide a restaurant-like experience at home. In Waitrose, customers can look forward to the exclusive Rustica Aubergine Parmigiana Pizza, alongside the Rustica Sticky Pig Pizza and an improved Garlic Bread with Mozzarella being introduced nationwide this month.Meanwhile, Tesco will feature the Rustica Sticky Pig Pizza, alongside…

In a groundbreaking case, Russia has levied a fine against Google of an astronomical sum, far exceeding global financial standings.The fine stems from Google’s removal of pro-Kremlin channels on YouTube, reflecting heightened Russia-Google tensions.The case was initiated by 17 Russian broadcasters, including prominent Russian media figures.Moscow courts imposed the fine, which began as a daily increase, now amounting to $20 decillion.Google remains largely unaffected by the fine due to its limited Russian operations and strategic global stance.The Russian government’s decision to fine Google an unthinkable $20 decillion illustrates the rising tensions over the Ukraine-related sanctions. This action, driven by the…

In a significant move to bolster the purchase of local produce, Asda has launched a ‘Buy British’ section on its online platform.The initiative by Asda marks its entry as the eighth major supermarket in the UK to create a dedicated section for British-sourced products. This new feature on their website includes a variety of local produce ranging from meat, fish, and poultry to fresh fruits and vegetables.The drive to support British farmers and producers comes after the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) encouraged supermarkets to facilitate consumers in purchasing British products more easily and efficiently. Over 110…