Consumer confidence is on the rise in the UK, with a hopeful outlook towards financial prospects emerging for the first time in two years, according to NatWest. Paul Thwaite, the bank’s chief executive, noted that the alleviation of price pressures, as inflation gradually recedes, appears to be resonating with the general public. While headline consumer price inflation remains above the Bank of England’s 2% target at 3.2%, it has significantly declined from its peak of...
The aftermath of Brexit has presented both unprecedented challenges and unique opportunities for businesses in the UK. Areas causing the biggest impact include increased costs, labour and skill issues and supply shortages, with many businesses having to reassess and adapt to thrive in a post-Brexit era. The effects of 2020 Before 31st January 2020, when the UK officially withdrew from the European Union and the single trading market, there were no borders for trading goods...
World wine consumption dropped to its lowest level since 1996 last year, with production down 10 per cent, after the world’s worst grape harvest in 62 years, a new report has revealed. While the rising cost of living has put a dent in consumption trends, experts at the Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), monitoring trade, blamed ‘extreme’ climate changes for the overall slump. ‘Extreme environmental conditions’ including droughts, fires and other problems with climate...
In a rush to assuage the grievances of protesting farmers and court rural votes ahead of the impending June EU elections, the European Union has hastily pursued the dilution of environmental safeguards within its agricultural subsidy system. This expedited maneuver, shrouded in secrecy and devoid of comprehensive assessment, not only deviates from the EU’s typical legislative process but also raises profound concerns about the future of sustainable agriculture and democratic governance within the bloc. The...
MPs have cast doubt over the UK government’s readiness for post-Brexit border control checks, which are due to come in next week, arguing that a scaling back of its plans appeared to represent a sixth delay to their long-awaited introduction. The environment, food and rural affairs select committee (EFRA) has written to the government demanding clarity over the exact nature of the physical inspections on plant and food products, after it emerged these may be...
Tata Steel has rejected a plan from unions to keep one blast furnace running at Britain’s biggest steel plant in Port Talbot while it transitions to greener steel production. The company’s chief executive and managing director, TV Narendran, said the unions’ proposal was not “financially or operationally viable”. About 2,800 jobs are likely to go across Tata’s UK operations, the bulk of them at Port Talbot. Steel unions have condemned the decision and threatened industrial...
Ever picture yourself cruising in a brand new set of wheels? While the allure of a shiny new car is tempting, it’s important to consider the value of your current ride. Whether you’re planning a private sale or trading in at a dealership, understanding “what is my car worth” is key to setting a realistic budget and navigating the buying process smoothly. What Affects Your Car’s Value Several factors come into play when determining a...
Google has been accused of taking advantage of its market dominance to make it harder to search for a rival email service. Tuta Mail – which says it has more than ten million users worldwide – alleges that, since March, it hasn’t appeared prominently in Google searches for “encrypted email.” The company has made a complaint to the EU claiming that Google – which has its own hugely popular Gmail service – has damaged a...
Here are some tips for starting a freelance business: 1. First, determine what your business focus is going to be on, as well as the kind of services you’d like to provide. Decide, what you are, either skilled at or attracted to, and orient your service offerings to meet your clients’ needs. Among the most common freelance specialties include writing, graphic designing, programing, consultancy, etc. 2. Proceed to set up your workspace. While the nature...
Welcome to the ultimate guide on where to position your consumer unit in the UK for optimal safety and convenience. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, ensuring that your consumer unit is correctly placed is essential for protecting your property, appliances, and most importantly, the people inside. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the various factors to consider when determining the best location for your consumer unit. Understanding the Regulations and Guidelines for...
