Author: Sam Allcock

London-based climate tech start-up Tewke successfully raised £2.6m, surpassing its initial target.The funding will aid in developing ‘Tap’, a touch-screen light switch aimed at improving home energy efficiency.Tewke plans to address the UK’s £4 billion annual energy wastage with its innovative technologies.The ‘Tap’ switch requires no rewiring, integrating easily with existing home systems.Tewke aims to expand its market reach and enhance its AI-driven energy solutions.London-based climate tech start-up Tewke has successfully raised £2.6 million in its seed funding round, a figure significantly surpassing its initial target of £1 million. This commendable achievement highlights the strong investor confidence in Tewke’s potential…

Retailers have raised concerns about potential job cuts following recent tax changes, a sentiment supported by the Bank of England governor.Andrew Bailey emphasised that the concerns over job reductions are justified due to tax rises announced in the Budget.Nearly 80 retail leaders have formally addressed their worries to the Chancellor, foreseeing unavoidable layoffs and rising costs.The Treasury’s justificatory response highlights the need for fiscal stability, even amidst fear of job losses.Communications between the Treasury and retailers indicate attentive governmental stance but open to critique on policy effects.Andrew Bailey, the governor of the Bank of England, has expressed agreement with retail…

Ann Summers faces financial challenges, prompting critical business decisions.The company cuts jobs to manage escalating costs and sustain operations.Ownership invests £5 million to support the lingerie retailer’s financial health.Company leaders express commitment to brand heritage despite economic pressures.Leadership changes accompany the company’s strategy to optimise costs.Amidst rising costs, Ann Summers, a well-known lingerie retailer, is taking significant steps to address its financial situation. The company’s ownership, led by the Gold family, has injected £5 million into the business to alleviate its ongoing financial pressures. The action aims to curb substantial losses observed over the past year.Ann Summers reported a loss…

The UK fashion brand A Cold Wall, established in 2015, has been sold for the second time this year.Four Marketing, backed by Frasers Group, has now acquired A Cold Wall from Tomorrow Limited.Tomorrow Limited had initially acquired A Cold Wall in February from its founder, Samuel Ross.Ben Banks of Four Marketing emphasised the strategic synergy in the acquisition, especially in retail and direct-to-consumer areas.Stefano Martinetto of Tomorrow Limited supports the transition, focusing on brand growth and portfolio optimisation.The dynamic in the fashion industry continues to evolve with the second sale of A Cold Wall in 2024. Founded in 2015, the…

Aerobic exercise could be key to reducing dementia risk. Middle-aged individuals, even those at high genetic risk, may benefit from improved cardiovascular fitness. A recent study highlights this association, pointing to significant cognitive benefits. Researchers emphasise the importance of sustained physical activity for brain health.The Role of Cardiovascular FitnessResearch indicates a strong link between low cardiorespiratory fitness and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, potentially leading to premature mortality. According to scientific data, without regular physical activity, cardiovascular health declines with age. The American Heart Association reports a decrease of 3% to 6% in fitness levels during a person’s 20s and…

In the wake of the recent Autumn Budget, the UK housing market is experiencing a notable resurgence, marked by a surge in buyer inquiries and transactions. This rebound challenges pre-budget predictions, offering a promising outlook for the sector. Analysts are closely observing these developments as the market adjusts to evolving economic conditions.Estate agents across the country report increased sales activity in October, spurred by pre-budget apprehension, potential tax changes, and easing mortgage rates. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) survey highlights that many agents are optimistic about the market’s trajectory over the coming months, pointing to a growing number…

A child in California is recovering after initial tests suggested a possible bird flu infection. The case emerged in Alameda County, drawing attention from public health officials.The child experienced mild respiratory symptoms but has since tested negative for bird flu. This development reassures the public about health safety, but investigations continue to identify potential exposure sources.Initial Diagnosis and TreatmentA child in Alameda County, California, was initially diagnosed with a possible case of bird flu after presenting mild upper respiratory symptoms. The California Department of Public Health administered treatment, following which the child returned home to recover. Initially, tests showed low…

Rising consumer expectations are reshaping delivery preferences, favouring parcel lockers.The convenience of avoiding missed deliveries is drawing shoppers to parcel lockers.Cost-effective and flexible out-of-home (OOH) delivery options are appealing to modern consumers.Retailers see parcel lockers as a means to drive sales and enhance customer loyalty.Sustainability and reduced carbon footprints further bolster the appeal of parcel lockers.In the digital age, the concept of missed deliveries has become an increasingly prevalent issue for consumers. As people’s schedules become more hectic, the traditional delivery model of leaving packages on doorsteps or returning them to sorting facilities is becoming impractical. Consumers are now looking…

Following an insolvency event, Ted Baker has successfully reintroduced its UK ecommerce platform under new management.The reactivation of Ted Baker’s online presence in the UK marks an important strategic move under its new operator, United Legwear and Apparel.The updated platform promises an enriched shopping experience with enhanced visuals and user-friendly navigation.Currently, the ecommerce site caters solely to UK customers, with European accessibility projected in the near future.The brand’s popular menswear, womenswear, and accessories are readily available online.After facing significant challenges earlier this year, Ted Baker has reestablished its online shopping platform dedicated to the United Kingdom. This revival comes as…

The Body Shop has made significant enhancements to its leadership team, aiming to accelerate growth post-acquisition.Penny Brook has been appointed as the Chief Marketing Officer, bringing extensive brand transformation experience.Sally Dowling joins as Chief Financial and Operations Officer, known for her strategic financial leadership.These appointments are pivotal for steering the company towards fiscal health and innovation.The leadership changes are part of a broader strategy to solidify The Body Shop’s market position.The Body Shop has strategically bolstered its leadership team by appointing Penny Brook as the Chief Marketing Officer and Sally Dowling as the Chief Financial and Operations Officer. These appointments…