Author: Scott Dylan

Lidl has introduced its first Retail Leadership degree apprenticeship scheme, collaborating with Kingston University.The four-year programme blends academic learning with practical retail experience.Over 5,000 applications were received for just 51 positions available this year.Apprentices begin with a salary of nearly £26,000, growing to £46,000 by the end of the programme.Successful applicants will work in-store and visit Kingston University and Lidl House regularly.Lidl has entered a significant partnership with Kingston University, launching its inaugural Retail Leadership degree apprenticeship programme. This marks a key milestone in Lidl’s strategy to foster talent within the retail sector. Designed as a four-year educational journey, the…

Safety concerns about household cleaning products are on the rise. This article delves into expert opinions, exploring the risks and offering guidance on safer choices.With numerous chemicals and misleading labels, consumers are left questioning the true safety of their cleaning supplies. Experts weigh in to shed light on these concerns.Unveiling the Chemical ComplexitiesHousehold cleaning products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which encompass numerous chemicals. According to health experts, these compounds can lead to irritations and other health issues, including damage to vital organs. The EPA notes that VOC concentrations are significantly higher indoors, heightening exposure risks.The extensive list of…

Royal Devon NHS has secured significant funding for a research hub.The £1.4m facility will be hosted at North Devon District Hospital.Key research areas include heart studies, back pain, and osteoarthritis.The hub aims to address health inequalities in the region.The project promises to bolster regional healthcare and attract top clinicians.The Royal Devon NHS Foundation Trust has successfully obtained £1.4 million to fund the creation of a new clinical research hub at North Devon District Hospital in Barnstaple. This development marks a significant milestone as it will be the first dedicated facility for clinical research in the North Devon region.The state-of-the-art hub…

The landscape of employment law in the UK is poised for significant transformation with the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill. This legislation seeks to redefine workers’ rights, offering enhanced protections while imposing new responsibilities on employers.Businesses must prepare for these changes which are anticipated to reshape workforce management protocols. It’s crucial for companies to understand the key elements of the Bill to ensure compliance and to harness its potential benefits.Unfair Dismissal ReformsThe Bill proposes a shift in the doctrine of unfair dismissal, allowing employees to claim rights from the first day of employment rather than after two years. This…

Channel 4 has committed to a major office in Manchester, occupying space in a high-profile development.The broadcaster will take 12,293 sq ft at No. 1 St Michael’s, a key component of a £400m development.Gary Neville’s Relentless Developments leads the project, marking a significant achievement in Manchester’s property market.Pinsent Masons also secured office space in the same building, highlighting its desirability.Channel 4’s Manchester expansion reflects its strategic growth across the UK, emphasising regional representation.Channel 4 is set to establish a significant footprint in Manchester by leasing a substantial office space within the prestigious No. 1 St Michael’s development, an integral part…

Four major US technology firms are set to invest £6.3bn in UK data centres, reflecting confidence in the nation’s tech sector.This investment aligns with PM Keir Starmer’s strategy, highlighting technology as vital for economic development.Key contributors include CyrusOne, ServiceNow, Cloud HQ, and CoreWeave, planning completions by 2028.The initiative follows substantial commitments from Amazon and Microsoft, pushing total investments over £25bn.Data centres are now designated as critical national infrastructures, promising enhanced government support.In a notable move, four prominent US technology companies have committed to a substantial £6.3 billion investment into the United Kingdom’s burgeoning data centre industry. This major influx of…

Ger Wright, Frasers Group’s managing director of sport, will leave her role at the end of November 2024, transitioning to a non-executive director position.This announcement coincides with Frasers Group’s strategic moves, including a bid to acquire Mulberry, a luxury handbags brand.Wright, with 16 years of experience at Nike, significantly influenced Frasers Group’s elevation strategy since her appointment in 2022.Her tenure witnessed the introduction of new sports concepts, brand integrations, and international market expansions.CEO Michael Murray praised Wright’s expertise, anticipating continued contributions in her new role.Ger Wright will be stepping down from her position as managing director of sport at Frasers…

Harvey Norman, an Australian retail giant, has launched its first outlet in England at Merry Hill.Occupying a 57,000 sq ft space, this store offers a vast array of products including furniture and home appliances.The new establishment features specialised areas tailored for different product categories like cooking appliances.The decision to launch at Merry Hill highlights the centre’s growing significance in the retail sector.This expansion is seen as a significant move by Harvey Norman to capture the English market.Harvey Norman has made a significant entry into the English market by opening its first store at Merry Hill, located in Brierley Hill. Spanning…

Sipsmith’s sales have decreased for the fifth consecutive year, intensifying financial challenges.The London-based distillery reported a turnover of £14.2 million in 2023, alongside a pre-tax loss of £17.2 million.2018 was the last profitable year for Sipsmith before a continuous decline in turnover and escalating losses.Sipsmith’s UK market turnover fell significantly, as well as notable decreases in other global markets.Looking forward, Sipsmith will cease managing its UK market operations from February 2025, focusing more on gin production.Sipsmith, a renowned gin producer based in London, continues to experience financial difficulties as it reports the fifth successive year of declining sales. According to…

Waitrose observes a significant early interest in Christmas shopping this year.Online searches for Christmas gifts and seasonal foods have tripled.Demand for festive confectionery and desserts has doubled compared to last year.Seventy percent of delivery slots are already booked.Waitrose’s Christmas delivery service has seen a 6% increase over last year.As the festive season approaches, Waitrose has reported a notable increase in early Christmas shopping activity. Online searches for Christmas gifts and seasonal party foods on Waitrose.com have tripled, reflecting a strong consumer appetite for holiday preparations well ahead of time.In addition to the surge in gift searches, demand for festive confectionery…