Author: Sam Allcock

In an era where remote work dismantles geographic barriers, payroll technology emerges as pivotal. Employers face new challenges in managing cross-border payments securely and efficiently.By 2030, an expected increase to 90 million remote jobs highlights the need for adaptive payroll systems.Blockchain technology enhances security and transparency, pivotal for managing remote workforce transactions.Employer of Record services mitigate data errors and streamline international payroll management.Generative AI and self-service portals empower employees with multilingual access to payroll and HR data.The age of remote work is breaking down traditional barriers in talent acquisition, allowing businesses to discover and onboard talent from anywhere in the…

The latest data on the back-to-school market reveals unexpected shifts in consumer behaviour in the UK.Families are increasingly opting for second-hand goods, leading to a 1.7% decline in non-food sales compared to last year.In contrast to the overall decline, online sales experienced a modest growth driven by bargain hunting.Despite the challenges, sports and travel equipment sales received a welcome boost during the summer.Economic outlooks, including potential tax changes, play a crucial role in shaping this market trend.The recent back-to-school sales season has unearthed surprising consumer tendencies, with families showing a preference for purchasing second-hand items. This trend has resulted in…

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) remains steadfast in its pursuit of a £3bn lawsuit against the estate of Mike Lynch, despite his death.The case centres on alleged fraud in the 2011 sale of Autonomy to Hewlett Packard for £7bn.Lynch and former CFO Sushovan Hussain were found liable for fraud in 2022.Hussain faced US criminal charges, while Lynch was acquitted in a separate UK trial.HPE intends to continue the legal proceedings to their full conclusion.Following the untimely passing of tech tycoon Mike Lynch, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has confirmed its determination to proceed with the long-standing fraud lawsuit against Lynch’s estate. This…

Work-related stress is a notable factor affecting men’s sleep patterns, with 17% reporting sleep disruption due to work thoughts.A study by Happy Beds highlights that men experience more sleep disruption from work stress compared to 15% of women reported.The study reveals millennials are most affected, with 26% facing sleep issues due to work pressures.The findings suggest societal pressures may contribute, with men feeling pressure to support their families.Experts recommend establishing a bedtime routine and limiting caffeine to improve sleep quality despite these challenges.Work-related stress significantly disrupts men’s sleep, with 17% of men reporting that thoughts about their jobs keep them…

UK’s business climate faces turbulence as energy tax policies raise alarm.The Energy Profits Levy set to increase from 35% to 38%, impacting UK oil and gas firms significantly.Projected job losses and investment declines fuel concerns over the economic future.OEUK warns that extended taxes could cost the economy £12 billion despite initial revenue gains.Business sentiment declines as upcoming policies cast uncertainty over the UK’s economic landscape.The United Kingdom’s business climate is experiencing growing instability as discussions surrounding the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) intensify concerns within the oil and gas sector. Set to rise from 35% to 38% on 1 November, this…

A solicitor has been admonished by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for continuing to manage client affairs without the necessary insurance cover.Gareth Walford Williams, who previously operated Gareth Williams Solicitors in Birkenhead, found himself in breach of regulations when he failed to renew his firm’s professional indemnity insurance for the 2022/23 period. Consequently, his firm entered an extended policy period (EPP) starting on 1 October 2022, which required closure before 29 December 2022 if insurance was not secured.Despite this deadline, Mr Williams did not close the firm as mandated and continued to manage two active client cases beyond this date.…

The Court of Appeal has dismissed a claim by a prisoner, asserting his legal team inadequately defended him following convictions for grievous bodily harm (GBH).Sir Robin Spencer stated that the applications by Kirk Daniels for extension of time to apply for leave to appeal were devoid of merit, resulting in a decision that four weeks of his prison time will not count towards his sentence.Contradicting Mr. Daniels’ allegations of not being represented, his trial counsel provided evidence of frequent meetings and instructions taken throughout the trial. The defence cross-examined prosecution witnesses appropriately and presented Mr. Daniels’ case, although Mr. Daniels…

Seasalt Cornwall, a renowned clothing brand, has achieved B Corp certification, marking a significant milestone.The brand obtained a commendable score of 100.2, exceeding the minimum requirement by over 20 points.Achieving B Corp status involves a rigorous assessment of governance, workers, environment, community, and customer engagement.Seasalt’s CEO, Paul Hayes, emphasised the brand’s commitment to continuous improvement and future plans.Founded in 1981, Seasalt operates extensively across the UK and Europe, with over 70 shops and 400 stockists.Seasalt Cornwall has been officially recognised as a certified B Corp company, showcasing its dedication to rigorous social and environmental standards. The clothing brand achieved a…

Independent marketplace Trouva has acknowledged and apologised for late payments to over 700 boutique partners, citing unforeseen delays. Their goal is to restore regular payment schedules amidst retailer concerns about timely compensations. The situation arose from pending new funding, impacting usual operations. Trouva assures retailers of ongoing support and communication during this period. Retailers express frustration, affecting their trading decisions.Independent marketplace Trouva has publicly apologised for its failure to make timely payments to its numerous boutique partners spread across the UK and Europe. This delay in payments has sparked understandable concern and frustration amongst retailers, who rely on regular financial…

Ashtead Technology has posted record results for the first half of the year, indicating ambitious future expansion plans.The company experienced a 61% surge in revenue, bolstered by strong product demand within the offshore energy sector.The adjusted EBITA grew by 46% to £22.6 million, reflecting significant profitability improvements.Despite strong performance metrics, shares dropped nearly 6% in early trading on Monday.Future growth is expected through mergers and acquisitions, as part of a strategic focus on international expansion.Ashtead Technology, a leader in subsea equipment rental for the offshore energy sector, has delivered a record performance for the first half of 2024. The company…