Author: Sam Allcock

A groundbreaking legal platform is set to transform the process of buying small businesses in the UK by offering a fully automated legal service.The platform, developed by a UK-based law firm, promises to facilitate mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for businesses valued between £500,000 and £15 million. By automating legal procedures, the service aims to reduce costs significantly, with packages starting from as low as £2,000. James Howell, managing director of the firm, highlights that the platform is designed to cater to buyers, brokers, and corporate finance specialists, offering an alternative to traditional legal services.Mr. Howell, who leads both the new…

The acquisition of Gentronix by Scantox marks a significant moment in the life sciences sector.Gentronix, known for genetic toxicology expertise, joins forces with Danish group Scantox.The acquisition promises to expand Gentronix’s service capabilities and customer base.Mercia Ventures reaps a notable return on its investment with the sale of its stake in Gentronix.The partnership is strategically beneficial, offering synergies between Gentronix and Scantox.Gentronix, a leading name in genetic toxicology services, has been acquired by Scantox, a Danish group, as announced by the companies. This acquisition represents what is described as a ‘fantastic next step’ for Gentronix and its 70 employees. The…

Aspire Technology Solutions, a leading tech firm from Gateshead, is on the brink of achieving £40 million in revenue for the year.The company’s growth is primarily attributed to organic expansion, with key improvements in cyber security services.Aspire has made a strategic acquisition of Cloud Cover IT Services, enriching their offerings in the Scottish market.The firm has significantly increased its workforce, surpassing 280 employees to support its expanding client base.CEO Chris Fraser emphasised the importance of innovation and customer-centric strategies to their continued success.Gateshead-based Aspire Technology Solutions has reported a near 25% increase in revenues, reaching £39.6 million, according to their…

The 2024 Yorkshire Legal Awards shortlist has been revealed, showcasing the best in the legal sector.The awards mark their 25th anniversary, emphasising Yorkshire’s talent and innovation.Nominees range from rising stars to established firms across multiple categories.Judges include leading figures like Jason Pitter KC and Sarah Khan Bashir.Winners will be announced at the FirstDirect Arena on 10 October 2024.The eagerly awaited 2024 Yorkshire Legal Awards shortlist is now available, celebrating excellence in the region’s legal industry. The shortlist boasts a wide array of nominees, reflecting both emerging talent and seasoned professionals across various fields, including Law Firm of the Year, In-House…

Choosing between edge and cloud computing is crucial. This guide explores their differences, benefits, and potential challenges to help determine the right option for your business needs.Edge computing processes data close to its source, reducing transfer time and costs. It’s becoming essential with technologies like 5G and AI needing real-time capabilities.Serverless edge solutions decentralise data processing, offering reduced latency and improved security, but demand secure endpoints.Cloud computing offers on-demand resources via services like IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, popular for their flexibility and lower costs for businesses, especially e-commerce.Understanding data location, latency, cost, scalability, and security will help in choosing the…

A solicitor has been fined for failing to provide adequate advice to clients on the high risks associated with purchasing and subletting rooms in care homes.The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has sanctioned Jonathan Sara, an experienced conveyancer, for failing to inform clients sufficiently about the significant risks involved in buying rooms or suites in care home developments. Between February 2017 and March 2019, Mr. Sara advised over 100 clients while serving as a director at Private Office Legal Services in Hertfordshire. According to a recently published notice, Mr. Sara “knew, or should have known,” the inherent risks in these transactions.The…

Santander is shifting its hybrid working policy to require office presence for employees.The change will see UK employees spending the equivalent of three days a week at the office.This shift aligns with broader industry trends towards increased on-site work.Santander aims to enhance employee development and workplace culture through this policy.The new policy will be effective by the end of the year, impacting office-based staff.In a significant shift affecting 10,000 employees, Santander has announced the tightening of its hybrid working policy. The Spanish-owned bank now requires UK office-based staff to work in-office for 12 days each month, effectively three days a…

Martin Blackham, a UK journalist based in Israel, alleges anti-Semitism by Barclaycard after they refused to maintain his credit limit.Blackham contacted Barclays over a month ago but received no response to his concerns, which he says jeopardises his safety in conflict zones.The journalist stresses the importance of emergency funds for those reporting in dangerous areas, suggesting a dire impact on his profession.Blackham’s claims spotlight potential discrimination in corporate environments, particularly affecting those in high-risk jobs like journalism.Barclaycard’s policy on credit limits is part of broader fraud prevention efforts, requiring customer transactions within a certain period.Martin Blackham, a British journalist reporting…

Upcoming legislation in the UK empowers banks to freeze large payments for fraud detection.Starting October, banks can hold payments for up to four days if fraud is suspected.The measure extends current 24-hour limits, aiming to protect consumers from scams.These changes align with new rules requiring reimbursement for APP fraud victims.Legal experts express concerns over potential disruptions due to increased measures.New legislative measures in the UK will soon allow banks to freeze large payments for up to four days if there are reasonable suspicions of fraud. This marks a significant extension from the current 24-hour limit and is part of broader…

Independent fashion retailers share their triumphs and trials in a changing landscape.Over half of the surveyed retailers remain optimistic about their future, despite numerous challenges.Shoplifting and threatening behaviour are significant concerns, with many crimes going unpunished.High stress levels are prevalent among retailers, but resilience and pride in their businesses remain strong.Successful independents, like Stil Lifestyle, thrive by fostering community and creativity.Independent fashion retailers are navigating a complex landscape, sharing their experiences through a recent survey. Over half of these retailers express optimism about their business prospects, a remarkable sentiment considering the challenges they encounter daily.A significant portion of the challenges…