Author: Scott Dylan

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) is contemplating a significant transaction involving Boots.The US retail giant is in preliminary discussions with Sycamore Partners for a potential $10bn sale.This move could initiate a new auction process for Boots, a prominent figure on the British high street.The talks emerge amid a considerable decline in Walgreens’ market valuation from 2015 to now.Recent developments have resulted in a surge in Walgreens’ share price as speculation mounts.Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), the US-based owner of the British high street staple Boots, is reportedly engaging with Sycamore Partners, a leading private equity firm, regarding a potential acquisition valued at…

Yesterday at Southwark Crown Court, Phil Shiner, a former prominent human rights lawyer, received a suspended jail sentence after being found guilty of multiple fraud charges related to legal aid applications.Shiner, once named Solicitor of the Year, was sentenced by Judge Hehir to two years in prison, suspended for the same period. His offences involved fraudulently obtaining legal aid up to £200,000 to pursue claims against British soldiers accused of wrongdoing in Iraq, without disclosing conflicts of interest to the Legal Services Commission.The fraud stemmed from legal aid applications related to claims investigated by the al-Sweady inquiry, which cost £31m…

A groundbreaking deal has been made between Manchester and Saudi Arabia, promising a surge in graphene technology.This agreement heralds the world’s first commercial production of graphene-enhanced carbon fibre.Investment could reach £250 million, creating over 1,000 jobs in Manchester.The development is backed by UK Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer, highlighting its national significance.Graphene’s potential extends to transforming industries such as aviation and space technology.In a significant move for technological advancement, Manchester has struck an innovative deal with Saudi Arabia to produce graphene-enhanced carbon fibre. This collaborative effort marks the inception of the world’s first commercial production of the material, driven by…

The KQ Futures Programme in Liverpool gains £1.13m funding to expand its reach over the next five years.The investment aims to create 8,000 jobs and attract £800m to the region in the coming decade.KQ Futures targets inspiring students and bridging skill gaps in the life sciences sector.Funding will enhance internship opportunities and innovative educational resources.Investment will boost outreach activities and career pathways awareness for local students.The Knowledge Quarter Liverpool’s Futures Programme has received a significant funding injection of £1.13 million from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. This financial support, spanning the next five years, is poised to broaden the…

The CEO of Boohoo Group, Dan Finley, expresses strong confidence in Debenhams’ future.Finley believes Debenhams’ potential value surpasses Boohoo’s entire market cap of £500m.The group faces challenges, including a boardroom dispute with Frasers Group.Boohoo’s financial performance has been under pressure, with declining revenues and increased debt.Frasers Group proposes significant leadership changes amidst Boohoo’s struggles.Dan Finley, the CEO of Boohoo Group, has reiterated his confidence in the future of Debenhams, asserting that its potential value could exceed the entire current market capitalisation of Boohoo Group, valued at over £500 million. Finley’s assertion comes amid ongoing tensions with Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group,…

David Hockney’s immersive art exhibition opens at Factory International in Manchester, showcasing 60 years of his work.The exhibition, titled Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), is located at Aviva Studios until 25 January 2025.Visitors will experience Hockney’s art through six themed chapters, complete with commentary by the artist.Nico Muhly provides an original score for the show, adding a dynamic auditory dimension to the visual experience.Tickets are available starting at £20, with special pricing for Manchester communities.Factory International in Manchester is currently hosting an immersive art exhibition featuring the works of David Hockney. This exhibition, opening at Aviva Studios,…

British shoppers are witnessing a substantial increase in mince pie prices as the impact of poor sultana harvests reverberates through the market.Consumers have encountered a noticeable price surge in mince pies, a quintessential Christmas treat, attributed to a significant shortage in the sultana market. This ripple effect has touched major supermarket chains across the UK, leading to a marked escalation in prices. For instance, at Tesco, a leading retailer in the country, the price of premium mince pie packs has soared by £1, escalating from £2.50 to £3.50, marking a 40% increase.A deeper analysis by Assosia, as reported by The…

In a strategic move that could reshape the confectionery market, Mondelez, the company behind Cadbury, is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring US chocolate producer Hershey.According to sources at Bloomberg, Mondelez has made preliminary inquiries about a potential merger with Hershey. These discussions, however, are still in their infancy, and there is no certainty that the transaction will occur. The timing of this approach follows a downturn in Hershey’s quarterly sales, which recently dropped to approximately $3 billion (£2.3 billion) due to waning demand. Conversely, Mondelez reported a near 2% increase in sales, reaching $9.2 billion (£7.2 billion), highlighting a…

The 2024 Google Year in Search lists have been released, spotlighting notable figures and trends.Teen darts sensation Luke Littler was named the most-searched athlete in the UK, surpassing well-known sports figures.Oasis’s anticipated reunion tour stirred significant interest, leading to high search activity about ticket purchases.North West drama productions had a strong presence in top TV search trends, showing regional cultural impact.Popular searches highlighted current social and political issues, including UK electoral processes and major events.Luke Littler, a 17-year-old darts prodigy, has made a remarkable impression by being named Google’s most-searched athlete in the UK for 2024. His popularity even eclipsed…

As the festive season approaches, an innovative delivery service is now available in London, promising round-the-clock convenience.Gopuff has announced the launch of its ‘Santa Hours’ initiative, offering 24/7 delivery services across London during the festive period. This move expands their previous delivery hours, which ended at 2am, to accommodate the busy schedules of Londoners during the holidays. According to a spokesperson, “We’re thrilled to bring ‘Santa Hours’ to all of London. This expansion reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers, especially during the festive period when convenience matters most.”Residents of London can now enjoy the flexibility…