Monthly Archives: May 2024

Cleaning & Facilities Management, News

New from the UK’s Number 1 Most Trusted Carpet Cleaning Brand, the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design

Designed to revive carpets in pet-loving homes, VAX, the UK’s number 1 most trusted brand in carpet cleaning[1], adds the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design to its range of high performance carpet and upholstery cleaners.

Perfect for busy homes with pets, the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design rejuvenates your carpets and removes stains, dirt and pet messes, whilst killing up to 99% of odour-causing bacteria[2]. With everything you know and love about the VAX Platinum Power Max, the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design is also proven to clean better than the leading rental[3] and cleans five times better than a high performance vacuum cleaner[4], to leave carpets looking and feeling their best.

Pets play an important role in the lives of many people in the UK, providing companionship, emotional support and joy to their owners, but they can also bring dirt, mess and bacteria into the home that would be better left outdoors. With pet owners spending a third more of their time cleaning[5], and two out of three pet owners needing to clean pet areas more frequently than the rest of their homes[6], the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design is a must have for pet owners, families and busy households.

VAX UK’s Head of Insights, Ceri Bennett, says: “At VAX, we understand the happiness that pets bring to our lives, as well as the messes they can sometimes leave behind, and we know that in busy family homes, keeping things tidy can feel like an ongoing battle. That’s why we’re here to help tackle the everyday dirt and grime that accumulates, ensuring your home stays clean and fresh despite the chaos of daily life. A regular deep clean or a quick carpet refresh with the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design, together with VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution, will revitalise your carpets and leave them smelling beautifully fresh and hygienically clean; so there’s no need to worry about deep down dirt, stubborn stains or pet mess!”

The VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design has been awarded a Which? Best Buy, and has also been approved by the UK’s trusted Good Housekeeping Institute, giving consumers the assurance that this new addition to the popular range of VAX Platinum carpet cleaners has been rigorously tested and will deliver on performance in pet-loving homes.

Features of the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design include:

Tackle Deep Down Dirt – Proven to clean better than the leading rental3, the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design is perfect for reviving your carpets. The XL brush bar and seven SpinScrub™ brushes agitate deep into carpet fibres to help remove tough stains, ground in dirt and pet messes, allowing you to revitalise your carpets with ease.

Reassuringly Hygienic – Together with VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution, the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design kills up to 99% of odour-causing bacteria2 to leave your carpets smelling fresh and clean. A specially developed antimicrobial treatment applied to the brush bar and cleaning attachments also helps to protect them from the growth of bacteria, keeping your tools and bristles more hygienic[7].

Two Simple Cleaning Modes – The Quick Clean mode offers a swift carpet and upholstery refresh, ideal for a rapid clean when guests are expected. Meanwhile, the Deep Clean function efficiently handles stubborn stains and ground in dirt, making it perfect for an end of summer carpet clean or pre-festive spruce up of the home.

Quick Dry Time – Carpets are dry in as little as an hour[8], thanks to the Quick Clean function.

Targeted Stain Removal – The included VAX Pet Stain & Odour Remover targets deep set stains and eliminates pet odours from your carpets and furnishings. When used with the convenient Pre-Treatment Wand, you can make light work of loosening stubborn stains and embedded dirt prior to carpet washing.

Versatile Tools – A range of tools makes the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design suitable for a variety of cleaning tasks throughout the home. With a 2.5m hose, simply attach the motorised SpinScrub™ Hand Tool or the 2-in-1 Antimicrobial Tool to remove deep down dirt and pet messes with ease. An additional Hard Floor Squeegee Tool adapts your carpet washer for use on hard floors; great for sucking up liquid spills.

Auto-Mix Technology – There’s no mess and no guess work involved when adding your VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution to the clean water tank. The VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design automatically dispenses the correct mix of fresh water and solution, for hassle free application.

Kind to Carpets – Included with the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design is our best performing carpet cleaning solution, VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution, as well as VAX Pet Stain & Odour Remover. These specially formulated cleaning solutions will keep your VAX carpet washer performing at its best, and are Woolsafe™ approved for use on all wet-cleanable carpets and upholstery.

Buy the VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design direct from vax.co.uk for £269.99, including 1 x 500ml VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution and 1 x 250ml VAX Pet Stain & Odour Remover, free delivery and a free steam cleaner worth £49.99. *only when purchasing direct from VAX

Additional bottles of VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution and VAX Pet Stain & Odour Remover can also be purchased from www.vax.co.uk. Using VAX solution will ensure your carpet washer performs at its best, for longer.

About VAX, the UK’s Number 1 Most Trusted Brand in Carpet Cleaning

Since the 1970s, VAX has upheld a legacy in crafting first-class carpet cleaners, epitomised by its first and now iconic orange ‘tub’ carpet washer that many consumers still fondly recall owning today. More recent innovations have kept VAX at the forefront of the carpet cleaning category with its popular Rapid Power and Platinum Power Max models, as well as its innovative Platinum SmartWash range. Named the UK’s number 1 most trusted carpet cleaning brand in the 2024 Newsweek BrandSpark Most Trusted Awards[9], VAX carpet washers continue to be well-loved and trusted by consumers. This highly coveted, 100% consumer-voted award reflects VAX’s dedication to delivering a range of carpet washers which meet the demand for effective cleaning solutions that effortlessly deep clean the UK’s homes.

The VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design extends the existing VAX Platinum carpet washer range, which features models to suit a variety of homes and lifestyle needs. With over 11,000 5-star customer reviews, the range includes:

VAX Platinum SmartWash Pet-Design VAX Platinum SmartWash VAX Platinum Power Max Pet-Design VAX Platinum Power Max
Our best ever carpet washer kills over 99% of bacteria[10], has motion sense technology and is designed to clean busier, pet-friendly homes. Our premium carpet washer kills over 99% of bacteria10, has motion sense technology and is effortlessly simple to use. Rejuvenates your carpets and removes stains, dirt and pet messes, whilst killing up to 99% of bacteria10. Perfect for busy homes with pets. Revives and deep cleans your carpets to remove stains, dirt and up to 93% of bacteria[11].
–  FLEXFORCE brush bars

–  Dedicated dry only mode

–  Triple tanks

–  Antimicrobial treatment

–  2.5m hose and toolkit

–  Pre-Treatment wand

–  2 x 250ml VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution, 1 x 250ml VAX Pet Stain & Odour Remover

 

6 year guarantee

RRP: £349.99

 –  FLEXFORCE brush bars

–  Dedicated dry only mode

–  Triple tanks

–  Antimicrobial treatment

–  2.5m hose and toolkit

–  2 x 250ml VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution, 1 x 250ml VAX Pre-Treatment Solution

 

 

6 year guarantee

RRP: £299.99

 –  SpinScrub™ bristles and XL brush bar

–  Quick drying[12]

–  Twin tanks

–  Antimicrobial treatment

–  2.5m hose and toolkit

–  Pre-Treatment wand

–  1 x 500ml VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution, 1 x 250ml VAX Pet Stain & Odour Remover

 

6 year guarantee

RRP: £269.99

 –  SpinScrub™ bristles and XL brush bar

–  Quick drying12

–  Twin tanks

–  Antimicrobial treatment

–  2.5m hose and toolkit

–  Pre-Treatment wand

–  2 x 250ml VAX Platinum Professional Solution, 1 x 250ml VAX Pre-Treatment Solution

 

6 year guarantee

RP: £249.99

Refs:

[1] Voted most trusted carpet cleaner brand by UK shoppers based on the 2024 BrandSpark International UK Trust Study.

[2] When used with VAX Platinum Antibacterial solution. Use biocides safely, always read the label and product information before use.

[3] Cleaning effectiveness on carpet, tested in Deep Clean mode according to IEC 62885-3:2014 part 5.2.1.

[4] Based on the brightness and colour change when tested against VAX’s upright vacuum.

[5] VAX external survey – 1511 respondents.

[6] Mintel Household Care Habits of Pet Owners – UK – 2022.

[7] When compared with untreated tools.

[8] Tested in Quick Clean mode, results may vary.

[9] Voted most trusted carpet cleaner brand by UK shoppers based on the 2024 BrandSpark International UK Trust Study.

[10] When used with VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution. Use biocides safely, always read the label and product information before use.

[11] When used with VAX Platinum Professional solution.

[12] Tested in Quick Clean mode. Results may vary.

Marketing, PR and SEO, News

Travel brand WeRoad launch first Manchester campaign using UGC content

WeRoad, the adventure travel brand bringing solo travellers together for once-in-a-lifetime adventures, has launched its first-ever Manchester-focused out-of-home (OOH) advertising campaign. Through witty copy appealing to its target demographic and UGC content showcasing real customers, WeRoad’s Manchester marketing campaign aims to inspire travellers to embrace adventurous group exploration with new-found friends.

Since WeRoad’s successful UK launch in 2022, the company has created four OOH campaigns in the UK. This will be their first campaign in Manchester and from May 6th until 19th, the brand’s eye-catching “Once in a Lifetime Adventures” OOH advertising campaign will dominate 239 high-visibility locations across the city including bus stops, tram stops, pedestrian walks, roads, and train stations in a combination of static and digital formats; 4 sheet, 6 sheet, 6 digital sheet, and 48 sheet.

The high-impact, citywide marketing blitz cements WeRoad as a major force in the UK travel market after last year’s major London campaign. As the disruptive travel brand scales across Europe, the campaign celebrates WeRoad’s community of thrill-seeking explorers. The vibrant OOH ads showcase the cool user-generated photos from WeRoad’s small-group trips around the globe. Selfie-style shots immerse viewers in destinations like the Pyramids of Giza, the jungles of Sri Lanka, the peaks of Patagonia, and the Sahara Desert. Playful taglines like “Ever hiked through the land of fire?” and “Ever travelled through time?” culminate with the call-to-action: “Have you ever done a WeRoad?”

“Following our successful London campaign and growth in the UK, we’re thrilled to take over Manchester and introduce our ‘once in a lifetime’ travel experiences to the local community,” said Fabio Bin, CMO and Co-Founder at WeRoad. “Our real traveller photos highlight the unique, bucket-list adventures that await with WeRoad, offering a glimpse into our incredible journeys and community values.”

Fabio Bin continued, “Our debut in Manchester is a huge milestone as WeRoad expands across the UK. As the coolest city in the north, Manchester presented an ideal opportunity for us to connect its diverse population and ambitious travellers. We knew we had to go all out and truly immerse ourselves in the adventurous spirit of the city, capturing the attention of adventurous explorers seeking authentic and engaging travel experiences.”

Beyond OOH ads, the “Once in a Lifetime Adventures” push includes:

– WeRoad’s own signature events “WeMeets” in local bars and pubs across the city.
– Surprise intimate music concerts in partnership with global music community Sofar Sounds
– Weekly outdoor yoga sessions with The Wellness Hub to integrate with the community
– A ‘WeRoad takeover’ at Kampus, one of the coolest hang-out spaces in the city for the summer with live music, activations, drinks and entertainment.

CAMPAIGN CREDITS
Creative development: WeRoad in-house marketing team
Pictures: WeRoaders IRL
UK media buying: Justyna Chlopecka, UK Marketing Manager
Chief Marketing Officer: Fabio Bin
Media space provider: JCD, Global

Food & Drink, News

Proofworks launches to unlock a new era of digital transformation in the spirits industry

Proofworks launches today with a proprietary SaaS solution to digitalise the entire spirits supply chain, from production, maturation and bottling, to customer engagement and digital ownership.

Combining user-friendly solutions with the latest in powerful Web3 technologies, the Proofworks platform surfaces previously unseen data and insights, allowing for optimisation and transparency at every stage of the product journey.

This is a key time for the spirits industry, as visibility of channel inventory becomes critical with category growth changes, and as increasing costs and supply chain disruption drive the need for greater efficiency. We’re also seeing changing consumer behaviours with an increased desire to connect in new, authentic and more meaningful ways.

Proofworks is enabling the connectivity of distilleries and warehouses through technologies such as NFC, RFID, QR codes and smart sensors. All this data is stored securely on blockchain and made accessible via the Proofworks platform.

As well as this powerful data being used to inform and optimise production, meet emerging compliance requirements and achieve sustainability goals, it is also empowering the end consumer experience.

A fundamental principle is that users don’t need to be familiar with blockchain concepts or Web3 technologies to engage with the tools and services. As broader adoption continues and valuable use-cases emerge, Proofworks believe these technologies provide spirits companies with a unique competitive advantage.

With successful live deployments in Scottish, Irish and American distilleries and warehouses, Proofworks is already seeing significant demand and has an ambitious roadmap of new features and services which will be released over the coming months. This includes CaskPassportTM and BottlePassportTM which aim to directly address the challenges of investment fraud and counterfeits, through digital deeds.

 

Proofworks began as Metacask in 2021, a Web3 marketplace reimagining the way consumers buy, collect and trade authentic real world assets (RWA) such as casks. After achieving immediate success with the auction of an ultra-rare 1991 Macallan cask for $2.3 million, Metacask has evolved to support the industry in translating new technology into meaningful experiences, now under the brand Proofworks, and will continue as a product in the Proofworks’ stable.

 

Supporting Proofworks’ ambitions, the company has strengthened its board with two key Non-Executive Director hires: Jane Grier, a regulatory compliance and financial crime expert for over 30 years holding senior roles at Bank of America, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse and Barclays and Duncan McFadzean, Managing Director at advisory firm Noble & Co where he has led whisky transactions over the past decade. Prior to this, Duncan worked for the Bank of Scotland as a Director of its £25bn Joint Ventures arm, Merrill Lynch and BlueCrest, a $10bn UK hedge fund.

 Jane and Duncan will work closely with Proofworks’ CEO, Rob Hollands, who joined in September 2023, and the wider leadership team, to drive the company’s rapid growth strategy and continued expansion in the UK, Europe, Asia and the United States.

 

Rob Hollands, CEO of Proofworks, says “We approach this from a position of respect, knowledge and passion for the spirits industry, and with a proven track record in creating innovations that deliver. Proofworks’ launch signifies an important milestone in the digitalisation of the sector. We’re on a mission to help the industry discover and implement future technologies to solve genuine business and consumer challenges.

“The digital landscape as we know it is at a point of significant change and we’re laying the foundations for brands to unlock future opportunities: from digital product passports and connected products, to the digitalisation of the supply-chain, as well as new incentive models to reward creators and communities.

 “With our new board members, we have a team of world class experts who together will launch and scale solutions that will help shape the future of the sector.”

 

Further information can be found at www.proofworks.com 

Marketing, PR and SEO, News

Midlands full-service advertising agency set to deliver one of largest TV Ad campaigns in MG Motor UK’s history

A full-service advertising agency, with offices in Albrighton and Birmingham, is on course to deliver one of the largest TV ad campaigns in MG Motor UK’s history.

M3.agency, which has seen revenues rise 25% in the last year, has extended its relationship with the iconic British automotive brand by creating the commercial to launch the MG3 Hybrid+ that has been hitting our screens this week.

The ad debuted on Monday and will run across all major UK terrestrial and satellite channels and several European stations in key markets. A second phase is planned for June, all helping drive interest in a car that experts consider will redefine the B Supermini segment.

Shot exclusively around Brindleyplace and Sutton Park in Birmingham, the ‘creative’ focuses on the feel good ‘aura’ that a person gives off when they are driving or even just anticipating getting behind the wheel of their MG3 Hybrid+.

“We wanted to flip the thinking behind traditional automotive TV adverts by making the car the principal character in the advert, delivering its own features and emotional connection with the audience. In essence, the MG3 Hybrid+ delivers a ‘Feel Good’ that you can’t hide,” explained Justin Griffiths, Group Creative Director at M3.agency.

“Our team created extensive visual effects in post-production to deliver the colourful aura that is so unique to this piece.”

He went on to add: “This is one of the biggest TV commercials and supporting campaigns we have undertaken for MG in the 5 years we’ve worked together and highlights our shared belief that it will be a major seller in the hybrid vehicle market.”

M3.agency has grown into one of the largest full-service agencies in the West Midlands, offering brand development, creative, digital marketing, media planning and web development services to a host of local, national and international clients.

The company, which also works with Ford Money and Formula One Autocentres, has been engaged with MG Motor UK since 2019, delivering a host of services, including TV, OOH, lifestyle and studio photography, radio, print, dealer support and digital assets.

It retained the creative services tender again in 2023 for the carmaker’s core range in the UK, featuring the European market launch of the new MG3 Hybrid+.

Nick Lovett, Managing Director of M3.agency, concluded: “We are very proud that MG Motor UK has placed its faith in a West Midlands agency to deliver its latest new model launch across Europe. It really is a fantastic vehicle, which we believe will pick up many awards.

“There is so much talent and creative skills in our region, but a lot of big brands just look immediately to London or other European capitals for their design and creative work. This is a major shot in the arm for our area and we’re hoping the adverts prove as popular as the car will inevitably be.”

To watch the TV commercial, please visit https://vimeo.com/943973438. More details on M3.agency can be found at www.m3.agency.

News

Next -generation fire service solutions a hot topic at Airbus SAFEcommand

Event gold sponsor Panasonic TOUGHBOOK set to show best-in-class Mobile Data Terminal and demountable rugged device solutions at two-day Airbus SAFEcommand.

 Customised solutions for the UK fire and rescue (FRS) sector will be the focus when Panasonic TOUGHBOOK and its partners team-up at the Airbus’ annual SAFEcommand conference on 14th-15th May at The Catalyst, Newcastle.

Panasonic will be showcasing its TOUGHBOOK 33mk3 at Airbus SAFEcommand, popular as a demounted device and in-vehicle Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) with UK fire services. The 12-inch device delivers market-leading ruggedness, battery life, customisation, connectivity, and performance. Its Airwave accreditation enables remote fire services workers to stay connected regardless of location, thanks to Wi-Fi, 4G, Emergency Services Network (ESN) and TETRA connectivity.

This makes it ideal for fire services to seamlessly access Airbus’ SAFEcommand™ suite of integrated applications and services. Critical information and operational resources can be securely shared with those who need it – from fire officers at the scene, to incident commanders and control room staff.

The Panasonic TOUGHBOOK team will be joined by partners from across the emergency services ecosystem at SAFEcommand, including Centerprise, Telent, Terrafix, and 3tc Software. Panasonic will deliver a joint session with the Ambulance Radio Programme (ARP), detailing how it has rolled-out a nationwide customised device and connectivity solution with these partners, increasing communication between emergency services workers on the ground and control room operators.

Will Holmes, Key Account Manager (Public Sector), at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, said: “Airbus’ annual SAFEcommand event provides us with the perfect opportunity to address the most pressing needs for UK fire and rescue services with our technology partners. Reliable and robust connectivity is always a high priority for fire and rescue services to deliver faster response times; the latest iterations of our TOUGHBOOK 33 and 5G-ready G2 rugged devices ensures fire officers and response teams always have access to best-of-breed technology to achieve this.”

Appointments, Boardroom News, Business

Change at the Helm: Swansea Building Society Welcomes New Chair

Swansea Building Society has signalled a significant transition in its leadership, as Ieuan Griffiths steps down after six years as Chair and nine years on the Board. Stephen Maddock will take over as the new Chair, bringing fresh perspectives to the role.

During his tenure, Griffiths has been instrumental in helping guide the Society through a period of sustained growth and development, leaving an indelible mark on its operations and strategic direction. His steadfast commitment and dedication to the Society’s mission have been deeply appreciated by colleagues, stakeholders, and the broader community alike.

Stepping into the role of Chair is Stephen Maddock, who brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in finance and governance. Stephen joined the Society’s Board in May 2016 and has served with distinction ever since. His appointment as Chair, effective May 2024, underscores the Society’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of leadership and governance.

A Chartered Accountant and a Fellow of ICAEW, Maddock’s professional journey is marked by a distinguished career in the financial sector. Beginning his career at the Swansea office of accountancy firm Deloitte Haskins & Sells, Maddock went on to join Coopers & Lybrand, now PwC, after qualifying. His career culminated in the role of Director of Financial Shared Services for Tata Steel Europe before embarking on early retirement.

In assuming the role of Chair, Maddock brings to bear a profound understanding of financial management, strategic planning, and corporate governance. His strategic vision, coupled with his deep-rooted commitment to the Society’s values, positions him as an ideal steward for the organisation as it continues its mission of serving its members and community.

Outgoing Chair, Ieuan Griffiths, said:

“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of Swansea Building Society for the past six years. In fact, I’d have loved to have stayed longer but nine years is the maximum allowed on the Board, so it was time for me to step down. I’d like to thank my colleagues for all that they have done during my tenure, not only do they bring expertise, but they contribute – unstintingly – with their time. I’d especially like to thank Society Chief Executive, Alun Williams. Our working relationship has been uncannily good, and there is a culture in the Society that is very caring, which, I believe, underpins its success.

“I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved together during my time on the Board, and I have every confidence in Stephen’s ability to help lead the Society into its next chapter.”

New Chair, Stephen Maddock, said:

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at Swansea Building Society. In the six years of Ieuan’s Chair, the Society has changed and grown significantly. I now look forward to working closely with the Board, management team, and staff to build upon the strong foundation laid by my predecessor and help drive the Society forward.

“On behalf of my colleagues, Board, and the Society’s members, we would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Ieuan for his invaluable contributions and commitment to the Society.”

Food & Drink, News, Web Design

Anything launch new website for Cauldron Foods

Manchester, 13th May 2024; today creative digital agency Anything announced they have designed and built a new website for Cauldron Foods. The website has a vibrant new look and showcases a new range of products, packing a powerful plant based punch as part of the brand’s new look. The team at Anything has created a modern tech stack and new CMS to allow the brand to seamlessly add content such as new products, campaigns and recipes.

The project reinforces the long-standing relationship between Anything and Quorn (Cauldron’s sister brand in the meat alternative category) which has seen them launch together over 24 websites globally. Through meticulous planning, seamless interpretation and cohesive client relations, Anything has created a fully functional, customisable website that reflects Cauldron’s new vibrant identity.

 

Leanda Falcon, Client Services Director at Anything, said: “Our relationship with Quorn has grown from strength to strength and we were delighted to be appointed as Cauldron’s digital agency to design and develop the new website.

“It represents the brand beautifully and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the team to ensure we provide the best digital solutions and service. Cauldron will also be joining us on a continuous optimisation roadmap, where we’ll continue to create campaigns, new content and recipes with the Cauldron team to help grow and engage Cauldron’s fans.”

 

Quorn Foods, Head of Digital, Lindsay Winstanley, said: “Cauldron has a delicious product range bursting with flavour and the new branding really represents this energy. We needed our website to truly reflect the new look and feel for the brand. That’s where, Anything, stepped in. They have translated our new Cauldron brand identity into a fun, interactive and high performance website. “

“Users can explore our delicious products and recipes through a vibrant new website design, with a seamless customer journey. Working with the talented team at Anything is easy, they understand our business and always exceed our expectations.”

 

The new website brings Cauldron under the Quorn Foods global digital ecosystem with the same tech stack and environment. By adopting a Content as a Service solution and utilising Contentful Enterprise CMS, Anything ensured the team at Cauldron have a scalable, secure, and performance-optimised website that can grow and adapt with the business. The Contentful platform is a proven alternative to less flexible CMS solutions which can quickly become outdated and require regular updates to stay secure.

 

About Anything

Anything is a creative digital agency led by a team of industry experts who don’t believe in limits.

When recommending a creative solution to their client’s digital problems, Anything’s team of consultants purposefully avoid technical jargon. This open and honest approach has led to the agency’s long term relationships with some of the UK’s biggest brands.

With a dedication to future proofing client’s digital platforms with scalable technology, Anything will limit downtime effectively enabling businesses to expand internationally.

As the digital industry has evolved during the past 10 years so has Anything who integrate brand design, experiential, event builds, social media and any communication solution needed to make their client’s campaigns a success.

Led by Jono Brain and Mark Holt in Manchester, Anything’s client’s include, Quorn, Amtico International and Institute of Civil Engineers.

 

About Cauldron

For people who love plants. People curious about plants. And people who don’t think they like plants.

Plants are fantastic. There are no two ways about it. In fact, when it comes to plants and veggies, there are loads of ways about it.

And that’s where we come in. Mixing. Stirring. Concocting. Creating. Making delicious plant and veggie-based foods for you to enjoy. Full of flavour, goodness, and mind-boggling deliciousness.

Serious about sustainability. Cutting carbon. Picking plants carefully. Getting smart about packaging. You can read more about some of the ways we’re doing our bit (and more) over here.

Cauldron products are available from all leading supermarkets and health food stores, including Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco, Asda, Morrisons and Ocado.

 

Apprenticeships, News, Oxfordshire, Training & Apprenticeships

Lowe & Oliver’s New Oxford Training Centre Drives Record Apprenticeship Applications

Lowe & Oliver, a leading electrical and mechanical contractor based in Oxford, is thrilled to announce a record number of apprenticeship applications following the February launch of its apprentice training facility the ‘Centre for Excellence’.

There has been unprecedented interest in the programme compared with previous years and the total number of applications stands at over 85 already.

This surge in applications highlights the success of the new facility and the company’s commitment to addressing the growing skills shortage in the engineering sector.

Launched during National Apprenticeship Week, the Centre for Excellence has quickly become a cornerstone of practical engineering education in the region, catering to Lowe & Oliver’s 30 apprentices with capacity for many more from across central and southern England.

Apprentice in facility

This purpose-built facility features a classroom and six fully equipped bays—five dedicated to electrical training and one to mechanical. Each bay is outfitted with demo equipment that simulates real-world site conditions, providing apprentices with an immersive learning environment.

Fred Lowe, Lowe & Oliver Director, commented:

“Since the opening of our Centre for Excellence, we’ve seen an unprecedented interest in our apprenticeship programme. It’s immensely gratifying to know that our investment is paying dividends in inspiring a new generation of engineers.”

“The ongoing debate within the industry about the growing skills shortage has a simple answer – a commitment to investment. If we prove to potential apprentices that we take their development seriously, they will respond. That requires funding, but that is an investment which will easily pay for itself over the coming years with an improved quality of first candidate, then apprentice, then trained engineer. We’re delighted with its progress, and look forward to build on it.”

Chairman Paul Tuson elaborated on the educational structure:

“Our Centre for Excellence follows a rigorous curriculum designed for electrical and mechanical apprenticeships at NVQ Level 2, 3, and above. The training provided here complements and enhances the learning apprentices receive from their existing educational providers, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.”

Lowe & Oliver apprentice Alfie Wakefield commented:

“Lowe & Oliver really invest in the best apprenticeship and have well and truly delivered during my time as an apprentice at the company.”

“Learning on the facility has been a fantastic tool for myself and the other apprentices, developing in an environment which replicates an actual site. This has been invaluable and has prepared us well for onsite work for clients.”

“Apprenticeships are a viable route to a rewarding career. I would fully recommend one.”

Business Leaders, International News

TTC wetranslate Ltd. Proudly Announce to be one of the Sponsors of The Essex Global Summit

TTC wetranslate Ltd, a leading provider of technical translation services in over 100 languages, is proud to announce its sponsorship of The Essex Global Summit, a transformative event for businesses interested in international trade. This free-to-attend summit will take place on May 22nd, 2024, at the prestigious Hylands House in Chelmsford, organized by Essex Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Chelmsford City Council.

The Essex Global Summit serves as a compass for navigating the complexities of international trade, offering attendees valuable insights, networking opportunities, and expert-led sessions to thrive in the global marketplace. Participants will discover how businesses leverage advancements in technology and logistics to solve trade complexities, network with industry peers, policymakers, and potential partners, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving international trade landscape.

“At TTC wetranslate, we are committed to facilitating global communication through accurate and effective translation services,” said Levent Yildizgoren, Founder of TTC wetranslate Ltd.

“We are excited to support The Essex Global Summit, which provides a platform for businesses to gain the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in international trade.”

The summit is organised by Essex Chambers of Commerce, offering attendees the opportunity to gain insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in international trade, learn from industry leaders and experts, and develop strategies to navigate the complexities confidently.

Chelmsford City Council, which serves a diverse population of over 181,000 residents and visitors, is committed to making Chelmsford a fairer, greener, safer, and better-connected community through strategic initiatives outlined in ‘Our Chelmsford, Our Plan.’

Don’t miss this opportunity to be at the forefront of international trade! Register free now by visiting www.essexsummit.co.uk.

 

 

About TTC wetranslate Ltd:

TTC wetranslate Ltd is dedicated to providing clients with high-quality technical translation services in over 100 languages. As a triple ISO accredited company, TTC wetranslate upholds the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

For a free, no-obligation conversation, email TTC wetranslate at info@ttcwetranslate or call 01245 216 930.

About Essex Chambers of Commerce:

Essex Chambers of Commerce delivers local engagement, regional representation, and global opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

Whether multinational or small-scale, Essex Chambers of Commerce assists in making businesses bigger, brighter, and better connected.

About Chelmsford City Council:

Chelmsford City Council serves a diverse population and strives to make Chelmsford a fairer, greener, safer, and better-connected community through its strategic initiatives outlined in “Our Chelmsford, Our Plan.”

 

Climate Politics, Construction, News, Scotland, Sustainability, Tradesmen

SNIPEF responds to High Court ruling on Government’s climate action plan

In response to a High Court ruling that mandates a revision of the UK government’s climate action plan, Stephanie Lowe, Deputy Chief Executive of the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF), has called for the urgent development of a more robust, fair, and actionable climate strategy.

“The High Court’s ruling, which requires the government to revisit its climate action plan, underscores the urgent need for realistic and achievable climate goals,” said Lowe. “This decision aligns with our longstanding call for government strategies that are ambitious yet grounded in the practical realities and expert insights from industries at the forefront of implementing these technologies.”

Lowe added, “Incorporating detailed, industry-informed pathways is crucial to ensure the targets set are not merely aspirational but truly achievable. It is essential that future climate policies adopt a balanced approach that includes all sectors and communities.”

The ruling highlights the challenges in current government plans, which have been criticised for their lack of detail on achieving proposed emission cuts. As noted by environmental groups and the recent judicial review, the plans require a more comprehensive framework that genuinely aligns with the UK’s net-zero ambitions.

“We urge the government to use this opportunity to engage more constructively with industry experts and stakeholders to craft a plan that is both comprehensive and feasible,” Lowe stated. “SNIPEF is committed to supporting a transition to low-carbon technologies and looks forward to participating in a dialogue that moves us closer to our shared environmental goals.”