Author: Scott Dylan

Concerns rise as Lloyds Banking Group steps back from fully releasing the HBOS scandal report.Dame Linda Dobbs has been leading a review on Lloyds’ handling of a fraud case dating back to 2009.Lloyds had previously committed to providing the entire report to legislative members, but now limits are suggested.Key individuals from the affected businesses demand transparency and clarity in the report’s findings.The financial implications of the fraud have escalated to nearly £1 billion, significantly impacting businesses.The long-standing review led by Dame Linda Dobbs investigates how Lloyds responded to the HBOS fraud scandal, which emerged following the bank’s acquisition of HBOS…

Revolut is gearing up for significant growth with a strategic hire in mergers and acquisitions.Despite challenging economic conditions, Revolut remains committed to its ambitious growth trajectory.The fintech company is currently advertising nearly 1,400 job openings, indicating a broad expansion strategy.Revolut is venturing into new areas such as an in-house crypto exchange and expanding its financial crime team.The firm faces scrutiny over fraud prevention amid ongoing discussions about financial crime responsibility.Revolut, a prominent fintech company based in London, is preparing for substantial expansion. Recently, the company hired a finance and strategy manager to bolster its M&A team, signalling an impending acquisition…

Maya Jama, the well-known television host, is now the co-owner of a Swedish plant milk company known as Sproud.Sproud, recognised for its use of yellow split-peas in producing milk, offers a unique alternative to traditional dairy products. This plant-based product claims significant health benefits, boasting a superior nutritional profile compared to other dairy alternatives like oat milk. It is low in sugar, high in protein, and is free from allergens, setting it apart as a healthier option for consumers.The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its production process, which reportedly has a lower environmental impact compared to other plant…

Adam Warby has been appointed as the new chair of Ocado, taking over during a significant period of growth as the company ventures into new markets.Adam Warby, who chairs the executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles, will become Ocado’s new chair. He steps into this role at a time that CEO Tim Steiner describes as a pivotal moment for the company, as it expands its technological reach and ventures into fresh sectors globally. Warby is set to commence his tenure as an independent non-executive director on 1 November, before fully assuming the role of chair on 1 December.Ocado’s CEO, Tim…

The used car market sees a rise amid economic uncertainties.Used car transactions grew by 4.3% from July to September, totalling 1.96 million.Sales of used electric vehicles (EVs) rose by 57%, yet they only represent 2.7% of the market.Popular models include Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, and Volkswagen Golf.The new car market shows a decline with a 4% drop in private purchases.In the third quarter of this year, the used car market experienced a 4.3% increase in transactions, reaching 1.96 million sales. This growth is particularly remarkable given the economic uncertainties that have deterred many from purchasing new vehicles. Significantly, sales of…

Sales for Coca-Cola Europacific Partners have shown resilience, rising despite subdued demand and unpredictable summer weather.In the quarter ending 27 September 2024, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners reported a 2.4% increase in adjusted comparable sales, reaching £4.50 billion. This growth extends throughout the year, with sales up by 2.7% to £12.97 billion. However, global volumes remained stagnant, and Europe experienced a 1.4% decrease in this quarter to 695 million units.Globally, the year-to-date volumes marginally increased by 0.4%, contrasting with a 2.3% decline in Europe. Despite these dips in volume, the company has maintained its full-year profit and cash forecasts.CEO Damian Gammell referred…

In a bold move, WeRoad has launched a campaign in Manchester, highlighting a common workplace issue.With a dramatic ‘Holiday Reaper’ campaign, the company draws attention to unused holiday leave.The campaign involves a horror film–style trailer showcasing the grim fate of neglected leave.Surveys indicate many workers are not taking their full holiday entitlement.WeRoad’s initiative encourages using vacation days before they disappear.WeRoad has initiated a striking campaign in Manchester, underscoring a widespread issue: the failure to utilise all annual leave. Through a creative display across outdoor advertising sites and social media, the campaign seeks to grab attention.The ‘Holiday Reaper’ is the centrepiece…

Hilton Foods has recorded a robust third quarter, aligning with its full-year expectations due to strong performance in its core meat and convenience range.The food and drink manufacturer has confirmed that its third-quarter performance was consistent with the board’s outlook. This period of stability is attributed to the sustained expectations in its seafood business and a notable growth in its core meat volumes.Within the European market, Hilton Foods has seen exceptional performance from both its core meat ranges and its convenience meals. Meanwhile, the company is actively implementing a recovery plan for its brand Dalco, focusing on the vegan and…

Innovative AI technology from Aberdeen promises to transform North Sea oil decommissioning, presenting significant savings and increased revenue potential.Developers at Rahd AI have created a pioneering platform utilising data from over 15,000 oil wells to lower costs and improve tax receipts.The initiative, backed by six major energy firms, could reduce decommissioning expenses by up to 35%, aiming to save the UK £10bn.A pilot in Australia has demonstrated viable cost savings, with UK implementation potentially far exceeding government targets.Rahd AI’s work is supported by governmental and industrial collaboration, promising further optimisation in decommissioning processes.Rahd AI, a developer based in Aberdeen, is…

Democracy wins a significant pitch to represent top gardening brands Flymo and GARDENA.The agency is tasked with handling PR, social media, and influencer campaigns starting in 2025.Flymo is celebrating its 60th anniversary with Democracy’s support.GARDENA and Flymo are subsidiaries of the global Husqvarna Group, known for innovative gardening solutions.The partnership aims to enhance the brands’ presence among gardening enthusiasts and new growers.Democracy, a Manchester-based agency, emerges victorious in a competitive pitch to manage public relations, social media, and influencer activities for renowned gardening brands Flymo and GARDENA. These brands, under the global Husqvarna Group umbrella, sought a fresh and dynamic…