Category Archives: Business & Property News

Engineering specialist MARCH announces investment by EMK Capital.

Leading critical engineering firm MARCH has received investment from EMK Capital as part of the sale from Aliter Capital. EMK has an exceptional track record and expertise in infrastructure services. The strategic investment marks a significant milestone in MARCH’s evolution, positioning the company for accelerated growth.

The business, which reported turnover of £188 million for the year ending February 2024, continues to show strong momentum with a forward order book exceeding £840 million.

The acquisition follows MARCH’s rebranding in September 2024, which consolidated the expertise of operating companies ACS, Musk Process Services, Parker Technical Services, and Peak Technology Solutions. Through this integration, MARCH has enhanced operational efficiency and simplified customer engagement, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in delivering complex engineering projects across the UK.

The transaction terms are undisclosed.

Commenting on the acquisition, Christopher Kehoe, CEO at MARCH, said: “We are proud to have helped some of the biggest brands in the UK look after their critical environments and assets. EMK’s backing helps accelerate our ambitious growth plans, positioning us for the next chapter of our growth. We would like to thank Aliter who have been an excellent partner to the business.

Investing in our people has been and will continue to be crucial to our growth strategy. By enabling our workforce to cultivate the required expertise, we can continue to focus on engineering progress, better supporting our customers to meet the evolving challenges around energy efficiency, decarbonisation, and operational improvement.”

 

Pictured: Christopher Kehoe

About MARCH

MARCH, formerly the Edwin James Group, delivers critical engineering services to support some of the UK’s leading brands. With a network of 18 offices and service centres across the UK, it specialises in managing complex, regulated environments, using technology to address the biggest challenges its customers and their industries face.

MARCH provides a total engineering solution, from infrastructure management and process optimisation to digital automation. The company focuses on delivering in highly-regulated, asset-rich industries, where it offers a single point of contact for managing assets across their entire lifecycle.

With a team of over 1000 skilled professionals, MARCH is committed to enhancing productivity, efficiency, and sustainability, helping clients navigate the challenges of decarbonisation and operational improvement. Through long-term partnerships, MARCH serves key sectors such as industrial manufacturing, nuclear, aerospace & defence, the public sector, life sciences, food & beverage, and utilities.

MARCH also owns and operates compressed air management specialist, Motivair, which was acquired in July 2024 to deepen maintenance and asset care offerings.

 

About EMK Capital

EMK Capital is a growth-focused private equity investor, with an exceptional track record of investing in European and international mid-market businesses. EMK invests in opportunities where there is unrecognised and/ or hard to realise value, identified through extensive work on sub sector theses, and where EMK can partner with outstanding management teams in executing transformative change.

EMK operates from Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Milan, Mumbai, Munich, New York, Paris and Singapore.

https://www.emkcapital.com/

Lea Turner leverages her LinkedIn success to challenge the myths of entrepreneurship with The HoLT’s Survival Guide for Small Businesses podcast

  • LinkedIn supremo Lea pulls no punches and cuts through the glamorous facade of business ownership with her new podcast, sharing the real, unfiltered stories behind entrepreneurship.
  • From the highs of independence to the lows of isolation, The HoLT’s Survival Guide for Small Businesses exposes the raw realities of starting and running a business.
  • Drawing on her experiences running successful businesses, Lea offers relatable advice and real-world wisdom for entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of business ownership.

 

Forget the glossy Instagram posts and LinkedIn “success hacks” – Lea Turner (170K LinkedIn followers) is here to tell you what running a small business is really like. Her new podcast, The HoLT’s Survival Guide for Small Businesses, dives headfirst into the gritty realities of being your own boss, tackling everything from the highs of independence to the gut-punching lows of loneliness and burnout.

Having recently launched on October 1st, this isn’t your typical business podcast full of inspirational soundbites and success stories. Each episode is raw and unfiltered, featuring business owners who’ve faced real challenges, epic fails, and unexpected wins – exactly what you won’t see on social media.

“I wanted to start the podcast because people don’t realise how lonely and tough running a business can be,” says Lea, Founder of The HoLT business community. “In reality, it’s exhausting, isolating, and full of challenges that we often think we’re facing alone. I want this podcast to give business owners something real – advice, support, and some comfort when things get tough”

 

And if anyone’s qualified to share real talk about business, it’s Lea. She built her six-figure business from the ground up by being unapologetically herself – no filters, no fake-it-till-you-make-it. Her growing community, The HoLT, is all about bringing business owners together for genuine support and advice. The podcast is an extension of that ethos: honest, no-BS conversations for people who want the truth about entrepreneurship.

Season 1 is packed with raw, down-to-earth stories from a range of entrepreneurs. You’ll meet Danielle Carrigan, a primary school teacher who left the classroom to build a VA agency that now has a team of 11. Then there’s Steve Ware, a former IBM consultant who ditched the corporate world to become a mindfulness coach. Every guest brings their unvarnished reality to the table, showing you the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

 

For those who want more, listeners can access The Vault – an online library of masterclasses that cover everything from marketing hacks to tax tips. For just £20 a month, The Vault is loaded with practical advice for people who want to get serious about running their business – minus the “hustle porn” that leaves so many entrepreneurs feeling burnt out.

Whether you’re just starting a side hustle or you’ve been grinding for years, The HoLT’s Survival Guide for Small Businesses is the podcast you didn’t know you needed. Real stories, no-nonsense advice, and the truth about what it takes to make your business work – without pretending everything’s perfect. Full episodes will also be available to watch on YouTube.

 

Tune in from October 1st to hear Lea tackles the topics no one else is talking about, with the kind of humour and honesty that can only come from those who have lived it.

 

Global AI Ethics Institute Issues Call for Submissions: $1000 White Paper Prize to Recognise Excellence in AI Research

Wednesday, October 23 2024 – The Global AI Ethics Institute (GAIEI) has announced a call for submissions for its inaugural White Paper Prize. The initiative seeks outstanding research papers on artificial intelligence (AI) ethics that have been published during 2024.

All writers, whether researchers or scholars, as well as public professionals worldwide who have contributed to the field of AI ethics through original works are encouraged to submit their papers for consideration. The submission deadline is the end of the calendar year 2024.

To be eligible, entries must meet two key criteria:

  • Publication in a recognised medium: Submissions should have been published in 2024 in a reputable and accredited journal, newspaper, magazine, or book (as a chapter).
  • Original work: The submissions must be entirely original works of the author.

The GAIEI White Paper Prize will award one winner with a $1000 cash prize. In January, the GAIEI will announce the winning paper through its publicist network and make it available on the GAIEI website with permission from both the author and original publication.

The topic of the published papers should be AI ethics, preferably from a global perspective. For instance, how AI affects a country or countries of the global south, far east, etc; or some aspect of AI governance and its consequences; or of structuring AI governance; or an effect of AI on society at large and its ethical dimensions.  Any topics having to do with global AI ethics will be considered.

Kevin LaGrandeur, GAIEI research director (pictured above) said the White Paper Prize was important for encouraging ongoing research and ethical context into the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

“We are thrilled to announce the first Global AI Ethics Institute White Paper prize. The inaugural topic for submissions is ‘AI, ethics and the future of work’ with a global perspective,” he said.

“As leaders, companies, societies and the world, we have to get this right. We look forward to sharing not just the winner, but the key insights we gather from thought leaders in this critical area.

LaGrandeur said the institute was concerned with AI, ethics and the future of work, with a global perspective.

White paper submissions can be made to contact@globalethics.ai.

 

About the Global AI Ethics Institute:
The Global AI Ethics Institute is the only global think tank addressing ethics applied to AI through cultural lenses. The organisation fosters outside-the-box thinking on AI ethics and explores a new global multilateral framework for AI normative governance. GAIEI raises awareness of the cultural dimensions of AI ethics, promotes respect for cultural diversity in the field, and opens the debate to new perspectives.

Elevating Workspaces: The Rise of Premium Office and Contract Furniture in Glasgow’s Business Hubs

There is much to be said about a well-thought-out private office, coworking space, or event space, as it seems to improve staff satisfaction and productivity in such a cut-throat business environment.

Gain insights into the key features that distinguish premium furniture, the types currently in demand, and how informed choices can transform office settings into creative workspaces. The importance of selecting the right furniture provider and examples of successful implementations by business owners in prominent Glasgow workplaces will also be highlighted.

Why Glasgow Businesses Are Investing in Premium Office Furniture

Premium office and contract furniture in Glasgow go beyond aesthetics by directly representing a company’s values and brand identity. In Glasgow’s dynamic business sector, organisations increasingly realise that high-quality flexible office collaborative environments can convey professionalism and innovation. An inviting workspace attracts top talent and fosters employee retention, resulting in a more engaged workforce.

It is one of those appointments that employees never forget and always consider. Well-designed, comfortable furniture improves employee morale and efficiency and improves workers’ functional living standards. Such a company that purchases supportive and appropriate burden chairs and height-adjustable desks understands the need for care in the workplace and promotes a culture of respect.

Furthermore, it so happens that investment in premium furniture is saddled in the long run. The initial cost may be significant, but quality materials and style last longer than cheaper ones. Quality furniture helps manage replacement and maintenance costs over time, creating more savings.

Key Features of Premium Office and Contract Furniture

Premium office and contract furniture are valued, so they are as essential as the other furniture types available for sale. Ergonomic chairs and desks are necessary in every work environment to improve health and activity levels. For example, an office with different staff would find expansive desks adjustable to fit their various heights.

In addition to ergonomic modules, the modern styles are also meant to enhance practicality. Pieces of modern office furniture look attractive and are also functional for the various needs of flexible office space. Modular systems can quickly be transitioned from one set-up to the other, allowing a blend of these in the same space.

Sustainability is another significant factor influencing purchase decisions for many companies today. Furniture crafted from sustainable materials appeals to eco-conscious businesses and aligns with broader corporate social responsibility objectives. Organisations can enhance their image by prioritising environmentally friendly and flexible options and contributing positively to sustainability efforts.

Types of Premium Office Furniture in Demand

While the demand for many office furniture categories with premium features is on the rise in Glasgow’s office market and other major cities, specific trends are emerging regarding workplace requirements for design-led workspaces.

With more businesses adopting flexible work policies, adjustable desks and standing ergonomic chairs have become the most sought-after items. These enable workers to shift between sitting and standing while working, thus promoting better health due to reduced sitting.

Now, it is possible to notice a growing demand for collaborative furniture. Such furniture encourages employee interaction and collaboration, which is very important for any project-based environment. Coffee tables or soft chairs might assist in informal conversations and brainstorming, which is beneficial for building internal relations.

In the executive areas, the requirement for workstation furniture also maintains the balance of comfort and confidentiality for the user. Such furnishings of a particular work environment primarily portray the level of the organisation’s management. Still, they also provide the amount of privacy necessary to avoid the noise of the open office.

How Premium Furniture Transforms Office Environments

It is worth noting that there has been a great improvement in the general environment of the office’s business lounges since the introduction of premium furniture, especially when it comes to sustaining the hybrid work model. Here are some key transformations:

Flexible Spaces

Furniture that works in hot-desking and coworking spaces and coworking hubs oriented toward activity-based working is a prerequisite for modern workplaces.

For example, in companies practising the concept of adjustable workstations and open office spaces, natural light with movable panels has made it possible for the teams to shift the room style according to the current project’s objectives. This creates an inspiring environment for business professionals.

Relaxation Areas

Adequate seating volume enables employees to rest properly, improving their mental health. Introducing remote environments where employees can relax tends to improve employee morale and productivity. An example would be how beans wear about an organisation and where it has a sofa, pictures, or some other setting where workers can chill out or do some activities interchangeably.

Research indicates that providing spaces for informal interactions can spark creativity and innovation, as employees share ideas more freely outside formal meetings. Integrating plants and natural elements into these relaxation areas can enhance the calming atmosphere, reduce stress and improve overall morale.

Brand Alignment

Appropriately selected furniture items support the corporate image and values. Careful decisions regarding furnishings inspire the employees and the visitors. Companies can also expand employees’ emotional attachment to the organisation by integrating brand values in the symbolism of the intelligent office space, and even to the furniture, where appropriate.

Improved Acoustics

Adding curtains or using other sound-absorbing materials will help improve the room’s overall atmosphere by making it quieter and more spacious. Such features help in creating a better working environment, especially where an open plan is used, as noise emanating from different activities can be a big distraction.

Improved Lighting

Adding furniture that can allow natural sun into the buildings, like translucent or light-coloured furniture, can also be used to improve the private office workspaces and elevate the mood of employees, head to the overall psychology of the employees. Lighting within the office building and event spaces is very important for maintaining the energy levels in the body over short and long days.

Choosing the Right Office and Contract Furniture Provider in Glasgow

Finding an esteemed luxury office and contract furniture company in Glasgow is paramount to avoid wasting your investment. To help you in making your selection, below are some of the factors to consider:

Sustainability

Look out for verifiable eco-friendly materials and more green certifications.

Customisation

Seek manufacturers willing to provide furniture solutions that respond to the flexible workspace and its uses. Customisation can bring additional functionality and comfort to your area.

Customer Support

Outsourcing companies can deliver strong warranties and sufficient after-sales service. A trustworthy partner helps safeguard the investment and deliver the expectations.

Reputation

Investigate potential suppliers to determine their standing amongst their clients and their reliability in delivering quality products. Their positive feedback and case studies will also provide insight into their dependability.

Design Expertise

Find providers with a good design department willing to provide some creativity to meet the institution’s needs beyond the norm. They can help design how the furnished offices will be laid out to make them sensible, functional, and flexible workspaces.

Delivery and Installation

Check that delivery and installation are part of the provider’s offer. This will enable you to avoid unnecessary wastage of time and effort trying to ensure that proper and effective set up of the new furniture is done.

Flexible Payment Options

Examine the providers’ policies and determine whether they have affordable options or reasonable or easy payment methods.

Case Studies: Premium Office Furniture in Glasgow’s Leading Workspaces

Understanding how professionals integrate such premium day office furniture in Glasgow reveals a lot. Numerous companies at the forefront have refurbished their office areas with premium stock and have received commendable reviews from their employees and customers.

Tangible results that justify the investments are seen in the outlook and functionality of the space for rent before and after the changes. Such outcomes motivate different organisations to enhance the ambient conditions of work and demonstrate how appropriate furniture can deliver practical results.

Benefits of Premium Furniture for Employee Wellbeing and Productivity

The influence of such premium furniture has a great deal of effect on the wellbeing and productivity levels of the employees. Key benefits include:

  • Ergonomic Support: Such ergonomic support ensures less physical effort and fatigue, and the employees are more concentrated, achieving more output. Those employees who are comfortable with working conditions are rarely absent due to sickness, and high levels of performance are sustained.
  • Sound Absorption: This minimises distractions, allowing for a serene work environment conducive to productivity. Acoustic solutions can create a peaceful atmosphere, fostering deeper concentration.
  • Enhanced Comfort: A comfortable workspace fosters a positive corporate culture that boosts performance. It encourages employees to invest in their work, increasing loyalty and job satisfaction.
  • Increased Engagement: Comfortable and attractive flexible workspaces can increase employee engagement, as staff members feel valued and inspired in their environment. Engaged employees are typically more productive and innovative.
  • Reduced Absenteeism: High-quality ergonomic furniture can lower health-related absenteeism, as employees experience less strain and discomfort.

The Future of Office Furniture in Glasgow

The demand for sustainable office furniture options will only grow. Businesses increasingly recognise their environmental impact, leading to greater emphasis on eco-friendly materials and production methods.

Moreover, premium furniture will be critical in adapting. Flexible office furniture solutions will be essential to accommodate shifting layouts and diverse work styles in Glasgow’s dynamic business climate.

The trend towards custom-designed furniture is also expected to increase. Organisations seek personalised solutions catering to their unique needs, reflecting their brand identity while enhancing employee experience. Collaborative engagements with furniture providers can lead to innovative designs that stand out in the competitive market.

 

Image: Photo by LYCS Architecture on Unsplash

HJ Collection recognised as ‘Property Developer of the Year’ by the National LIS Awards

Fast-growing nationwide property developer, HJ Collection, has been recognised as ‘Property Developer of the Year’ for the third consecutive year, after being shortlisted by the prestigious National LIS Awards.

 

Hosted at the De Vere Grand Hotel, London, on 28th November 2024, the National LIS Awards celebrate the shining stars of the Landlord and Property Investment Sector and welcomes over 70 finalists across 20 different categories.

Established in 2019, HJ Collection prides itself on leveraging permitted development rights to acquire and convert unloved commercial sites into tier 2 and 3 cities across the UK.

Over the last 5 years, the firm has transformed 15+ unloved commercial buildings into quality but affordable residential units, while delivering on its vision to help the UK overcome its ongoing housing crisis.

Underpinned by its own turnkey model whereby the entire acquisition and development process is managed in-house, HJ Collection is on track to accelerate growth by 40% before the close of 2024.

 

These achievements have been key to securing its place at the National LIS Awards as a finalist for ‘Property Developer of the Year’.

 

Founder and CEO, Reece Mennie, (pictured above) confirmed: “HJ Collection continues to go from strength-to-strength and being shortlisted by the National LIS Awards is a clear recognition of this. My team and I work hard to exceed the expectations of our clients, and we are genuinely humbled to take our place amongst so many esteemed nominees drawn from across the property and investment industries. We confidently await the award finals, but regardless of the result, we will continue to challenge ourselves and push forward the boundaries in the interests of our stakeholders.”

 

Headquartered in Canary Wharf, London, HJ Collection is a reputable property developer, underpinned by a network of 2000+ High Net Worth and sophisticated investors.

The company recently launched its latest property bond – HJC5 – after successfully returning £20+ million to its investors.

 

For more information, visit: www.hjcollection.co.uk/

The Best and Worst Location for Business in the UK 2024, Where does Your Area Rank?

new study ranks the best and worst locations for business in the UK in 2024
According to the study by business experts at BizSpace, Surrey stands out as the best location for doing business in the UK for 2024. Surrey ranks first with an overall score of 80, driven by its high business growth rate of 4.97% over the past five years and strong educational attainment, with 75.5% of its population holding NVQ4+ qualifications. The area’s high Gross Value Added (GVA) per hour worked, at £67.60, and a relatively high median gross monthly pay of £3,607 also contribute to its top ranking, making Surrey a leading example of economic vitality and a supportive environment for business growth.
On the other hand, Wiltshire is ranked as the worst location for business in the UK in 2024, with an overall score of 50. Wiltshire’s declining business count and low business survival rate of 12.27% highlight the area’s significant challenges. Economic constraints such as lower median gross monthly pay of £1,764 and a high rent-to-wage ratio of 81.01% further hinder business operations and growth. This stark contrast between Surrey and Wiltshire underscores the critical role of economic productivity, workforce skills, and affordability in creating a thriving business ecosystem.
Short Methodology: Bizspace.co.uk assessed business friendliness across 141 unitary districts/authorities in the UK by analyzing criteria such as new enterprise births, business growth rates, business survival rates, GVA per hour worked, median gross monthly pay, rent, rent-to-wage ratios, and educational attainment. The data was sourced from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the National Online Manpower Information System (NOMIS). Each criterion was scored from 40 to 100, with normalization applied to ensure fair comparisons.
Key Findings:
    • Surrey achieves the highest overall business-friendly score (80) due to its high GVA per hour worked (£46.36), strong business survival rate (44.77%), and highly educated workforce (53.3% with NVQ4+ qualifications).
    • In contrast, Wiltshire ranks lowest with a score of 50, reflecting a significant decline in business count (-2.78%), low business survival rate (14.39%), and modest economic productivity (GVA of £31.54 per hour worked).
    • Kent recorded the highest number of new enterprises (8,170) in 2021, while Rutland had the fewest (165), highlighting regional disparities in entrepreneurial activity.
    • Hackney experienced the most significant business count growth over the last five years (4.97%), whereas Central Bedfordshire faced the steepest decline (-3.92%).
    • Rutland boasts the best business survival rate (50%), indicating resilience among new businesses, while Luton has the lowest (12.27%).
    • Tower Hamlets has the highest Gross Value Added (GVA) per hour worked (£67.60), showcasing high productivity, while St. Helens has the lowest (£26.44).
    • Wandsworth offers the highest average wage (£3,607), contrasting with Blackpool, which has the lowest (£1,764), suggesting economic disparities across regions.
    • Kensington and Chelsea has the highest rent-to-wage ratio (81.01%), indicating a high cost of living relative to wages, whereas Hartlepool enjoys the lowest ratio (22.94%).
    • Lambeth has the highest percentage of residents with NVQ4+ qualifications (75.5%), while North East Lincolnshire has the fewest (23.6%), reflecting regional differences in education levels.
    • Bedford reports the highest life satisfaction score (7.89), whereas Kensington and Chelsea have the lowest (7.18), highlighting perceived quality of life variations.

South East England dominates the top ten business destinations, with areas like Surrey, Wokingham, and Hampshire offering supportive environments for business growth. In contrast, North West England features prominently in the bottom 20, facing challenges like declining business counts and lower economic productivity.

20 Best Locations for Businesses in the UK 2024 

County/Unitary District Region New Enterprise Births in a Year Percentage YoY Business Count Growth (Last 5 Years) Business Survival Rate (Last 6 Years) Average of Gross Value Added (GVA, Pounds) Per Hour Worked Median Gross Monthly Pay (Pounds) All categories Median Rent, April 22- March 23 Rent to Wage Ratio Percentage With NVQ4Plus (aged 16-64) Average Life Satisfaction Score (March 2021-2022) Final Score
Surrey South East 6940 -0.26% 44.77% 46.36 2757 1220 44.25% 53.30% 7.59 80
Wokingham South East 940 0.29% 46.15% 56.38 2960 1100 37.17% 57.00% 7.47 78.6
Hampshire South East 6270 -0.22% 43.10% 42.94 2458 950 38.65% 40.30% 7.71 77.9
Westminster London 7145 1.84% 46.43% 58.07 3195 2455 76.84% 68.90% 7.38 77.6
Oxfordshire South East 3330 0.64% 46.06% 37.05 2592 1160 44.75% 55.60% 7.75 77.6
Kent South East 8170 1.16% 40.57% 36.37 2399 900 37.52% 38.70% 7.6 77.3
Suffolk East of England 3445 0.94% 48.34% 34.82 2158 795 36.85% 37.00% 7.83 77.2
Essex East of England 8050 0.76% 42.92% 34.83 2388 975 40.84% 35.20% 7.68 77.1
Rutland East Midlands 165 0.81% 50.00% 30.35 2600 775 29.81% 43.50% 7.76 76.8
Windsor and Maidenhead South East 1055 -0.15% 42.23% 53.16 2836 1300 45.84% 58.70% 7.65 75.8
Lancashire North West 5870 0.82% 41.96% 32.6 2110 575 27.25% 35.60% 7.62 75.8
North Yorkshire Yorkshire and The Humber 2725 0.32% 45.44% 31.9 2143 675 31.50% 43.50% 7.78 75.7
Warwickshire West Midlands 3535 -0.04% 43.10% 37.24 2504 800 31.95% 43.90% 7.62 75.5
Leicestershire East Midlands 3275 0.23% 42.13% 33.83 2322 695 29.93% 40.20% 7.77 75.4
Camden London 5600 2.95% 40.63% 51.82 2989 1950 65.24% 66.40% 7.35 75.4
Richmond upon Thames London 1585 -0.45% 45.38% 50.63 3071 1625 52.91% 70.00% 7.47 75.4
Derbyshire East Midlands 3335 0.67% 43.71% 34.41 2203 636 28.87% 37.80% 7.69 75.3
York Yorkshire and The Humber 800 0.47% 47.90% 35.73 2188 850 38.86% 59.40% 7.65 75.2
Bedford East of England 960 1.20% 40.10% 31.74 2490 850 34.14% 49.50% 7.89 75.1
Gloucestershire South West 2980 0.46% 48.12% 36.94 2349 815 34.70% 42.90% 7.51 75
1. Surrey
Surrey, located in the South East of England, ranks as the best area for business in 2024 despite a slight decline in business numbers (-0.26%) from 2018 to 2022. Surrey remains a key business hub with 6,940 new enterprises in 2021 and a solid business survival rate of 44.77%. The area boasts a high GVA of £46.36 per hour worked, and 53.3% of its workforce holds NVQ4+ qualifications. Although the average monthly income is £2,757, the high property rents (£1,220) lead to a rent-to-wage ratio of 44.25%. Surrey also has a high life satisfaction score of 7.59.
2. Wokingham
Wokingham, another town in the South East, ranks second. The area saw a 0.29% increase in business counts and established 940 new enterprises in 2021. With a business survival rate of 46.15% and a high GVA of £56.38 per hour worked Wokingham is a strong business environment. The average monthly pay is £2,960, and with an average rent of £1,100, the rent-to-wage ratio is 37.17%. Additionally, 57% of residents have NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.47.
3. Hampshire
Hampshire ranks third in the South East, despite a slight business decline (-0.22%). In 2021, 6,270 new companies were established, with a business survival rate of 43.1%. The GVA per hour worked is £42.94. The average monthly salary is £2,458, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 38.65% due to average rent of £950. Hampshire’s workforce is well-educated, with 40.3% holding NVQ4+ qualifications and a high life satisfaction score of 7.71.
 
4. Westminster
In central London, Westminster ranks fourth, with a 1.84% annual increase in business numbers and 7,145 new businesses in 2021. The area boasts a high business survival rate of 46.43% and the highest GVA among the top 20 regions at £58.07 per hour worked. Despite high average monthly pay (£3,195), the rent-to-wage ratio is steep at 76.84%, reflecting the area’s premium cost of living. Education levels are high, with 68.9% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.38.
 
5. Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire, another strong performer in the South East, ranks fifth. The region experienced a 0.64% growth in business counts, with 3,330 new companies in 2021. The business survival rate is 46.06%, and the GVA per hour worked is £37.05. With an average monthly wage of £2,592 and rent at £1,160, the rent-to-wage ratio is 44.75%. Oxfordshire is well-educated, 55.6% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.75.
6. Kent
Kent ranks sixth, with 8,170 new companies in 2021 and a 1.16% increase in business counts from 2018 to 2022. Despite a lower business survival rate of 40.57%, Kent has a GVA of £36.37 per hour worked. The average monthly pay is £2,399, and the rent-to-wage ratio is 37.52% due to affordable rents of £900. Education levels are lower, with 38.7% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, but life satisfaction remains high at 7.6.
 
7. Suffolk
Suffolk ranks seventh, with a 0.94% increase in business counts and 3,445 new enterprises in 2021. The area has an impressive business survival rate of 48.34% and a GVA of £34.82 per hour. Suffolk is affordable, with an average monthly salary of £2,158 and a rent-to-wage ratio of 36.85%. However, only 37% of the population holds NVQ4+ qualifications. Life satisfaction in Suffolk is the second highest in the country at 7.83.
8. Essex
Essex ranks eighth with a 0.76% increase in business counts and the second-highest number of new enterprises (8,050) in 2021. The business survival rate is 42.92%, and the GVA is £34.83 per hour worked. With an average pay of £2,388 and a rent-to-wage ratio of 40.84%, Essex is moderately affordable. However, only 35.2% have NVQ4+ qualifications. Life satisfaction is high at 7.68.
 
9. Rutland
Rutland, the smallest historic county, ranks ninth. Although it saw the fewest new enterprises (165) in 2021, it boasts the highest business survival rate of 50%. The GVA per hour worked is £30.35. With an average salary of £2,600 and low rent of £775, the rent-to-wage ratio is favorable at 29.81%. Education levels are moderate, with 43.5% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.76.
 
10. Windsor and Maidenhead
Windsor and Maidenhead rank tenth despite a slight business decline (-0.15%). The area saw 1,055 new companies in 2021, with a decent business survival rate of 42.23%. The GVA is high at £53.16 per hour worked. The average monthly income is £2,836, but high rents of £1,300 push the rent-to-wage ratio to 45.84%. The area is highly educated, with 58.7% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.65.
11. Lancashire
Lancashire ranks eleventh, with a 0.82% growth in business counts and 5,870 new companies in 2021. The business survival rate is 41.96%, with a GVA of £32.6 per hour worked. The region is highly affordable, with one of the lowest rent-to-wage ratios at 27.25%, due to a low average rent of £575 and a monthly salary of £2,110. However, only 35.6% of the population hold NVQ4+ qualifications. Life satisfaction is strong, with a score of 7.62.
 
12. North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire ranks twelfth, with a modest 0.32% growth in business counts and 2,725 new enterprises in 2021. The business survival rate is 45.44%, supported by a GVA of £31.9 per hour worked. The average monthly wage is £2,143, and the rent-to-wage ratio is 31.5% due to a rent of £675. Education levels are moderate, with 43.5% holding NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.78, the third highest on the list.
 
13. Warwickshire
Warwickshire ranks thirteenth, with 3,535 new enterprises in 2021, despite a slight decline in business counts. The business survival rate is 43.1%, and the GVA is £37.24 per hour worked. With an average salary of £2,504 and a rent-to-wage ratio of 31.95%, Warwickshire remains affordable. The area has a decent education level, with 43.9% holding NVQ4+ qualifications and a life satisfaction score 7.62.
14. Leicestershire
Leicestershire ranks fourteenth, with a 0.23% increase in business counts and 3,275 new companies in 2021. The business survival rate is 42.13%, with a GVA of £33.83 per hour worked. The area is relatively affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 29.93% due to a low rent of £695 and a monthly income of £2,322. The workforce is well-educated, 40.2% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.77.
15. Camden
Camden ranks fifteenth as a central London borough with the highest annual growth in business counts (2.95%) and 5,600 new companies in 2021. The business survival rate is 40.63%, supported by a GVA of £51.82 per hour worked. Despite a decent average income of £2,989, Camden faces high living costs, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 65.24% due to rents of £1,950. The area is highly educated, with 66.4% holding NVQ4+ qualifications and a life satisfaction score of 7.35.
16. Richmond upon Thames
Richmond upon Thames ranks sixteenth, with 1,585 new businesses established in 2021, despite a slight decline in business numbers (-0.45%). The area boasts a strong business survival rate of 45.38% and a GVA of £50.63 per hour worked. However, the rent-to-wage ratio is high at 52.91%, with an average income of £3,071 and rent of £1,625. The borough is highly educated, with 70% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and enjoys a life satisfaction score 7.47.
17. Derbyshire
Derbyshire ranks seventeenth, with a 0.67% growth in business counts and 3,335 new enterprises in 2021. The business survival rate is 43.71%, with a GVA of £34.41 per hour worked. The area is affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 28.87%, thanks to a low rent of £636 and an average monthly salary of £2,203. However, only 37.8% of the population hold NVQ4+ qualifications. Life satisfaction is high at 7.69.
18. York
York ranks eighteenth, with 800 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.47% growth in business counts from 2018 to 2022. The business survival rate is 47.9%, supported by a GVA of £35.73 per hour worked. The average monthly wage is £2,188, and the rent-to-wage ratio is 38.86% due to rent of £850. York is well-educated, with 59.4% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and has a life satisfaction score of 7.65.
19. BedfordBedford ranks nineteenth, with 960 new enterprises in 2021 and a 1.2% growth in business counts from 2018 to 2022. The business survival rate is 40.1%, with a GVA of £31.74 per hour worked. The rent-to-wage ratio is balanced at 34.14%, with an average monthly pay of £2,490 and rent of £850. Bedford’s workforce is moderately educated, with 49.5% holding NVQ4+ qualifications. Notably, Bedford has the highest life satisfaction score of 7.89.
20. Gloucestershire
Gloucestershire ranks twentieth, with 2,980 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.46% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 48.12%, among the highest on the list, supported by a GVA of £36.94 per hour worked. The area offers a comfortable living environment, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 34.7% due to an average income of £2,349 and rent of £815. Education levels are decent, with 42.9% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.51.

20 Worst Areas for Businesses in the UK 2024

Rank County/Unitary District New Enterprise Births in a Year Percentage YoY Business Count Growth (Last 5 Years) Business Survival Rate (Last 6 Years) Average of Gross Value Added (GVA, Pounds) Per Hour Worked Median Gross Monthly Pay (Pounds) All categories Median Rent, April 22- March 23 Rent to Wage Ratio Percentage With NVQ4Plus (aged 16-64) Average Life Satisfaction Score (March 2021-2022) Final Score
1 Wiltshire 1980 -2.78% 14.39% 31.54 2292 825 36.00% 45.60% 7.44 55
2 Luton 1705 -2.05% 12.27% 35.96 2170 850 39.17% 37.10% 7.67 55.6
3 Central Bedfordshire 1450 -3.92% 14.06% 34.02 2739 910 33.22% 41.70% 7.72 58.3
4 Oldham 1070 0.49% 25.26% 30.75 2146 650 30.29% 29.60% 7.51 60.6
5 Bury 1645 0.29% 21.48% 30.55 2388 700 29.32% 42.60% 7.44 61.6
6 Kensington and Chelsea 1910 0.32% 41.34% 43.29 3086 2500 81.01% 63.90% 7.18 61.8
7 Blackpool 540 -0.08% 38.79% 28.59 1764 550 31.18% 28.60% 7.44 62.6
8 Doncaster 1735 0.88% 30.71% 28.43 2140 545 25.47% 27.20% 7.43 63.3
9 Redcar and Cleveland 400 -0.33% 35.71% 28.14 1908 525 27.51% 33.40% 7.5 63.4
10 Sunderland 1115 0.81% 36.78% 38.24 1997 550 27.54% 24.70% 7.23 63.5
11 Sandwell 1760 2.15% 36.88% 32.76 2035 725 35.62% 27.20% 7.29 63.7
12 Hartlepool 275 -1.34% 36.25% 31.85 2158 495 22.94% 30.20% 7.42 63.8
13 Southwark 2825 0.35% 32.28% 42.43 2904 1800 61.98% 57.20% 7.32 63.9
14 Rochdale 1075 1.60% 33.04% 30.17 2045 595 29.09% 31.30% 7.42 64
15 Halton 545 -0.08% 34.40% 40.56 2108 575 27.28% 30.30% 7.34 64.1
16 Manchester 4245 0.88% 26.36% 36.04 2081 900 43.24% 45.10% 7.45 64.3
17 North East Lincolnshire 580 0.54% 38.46% 29.22 2133 515 24.14% 23.60% 7.38 64.4
18 Nottingham 1350 1.13% 40.21% 32.77 1875 725 38.66% 41.90% 7.25 64.5
19 Knowsley 560 0.54% 36.11% 33.41 2249 645 28.68% 31.20% 7.36 64.5
20 Walsall 1535 1.67% 37.10% 28.66 2078 675 32.48% 26.90% 7.42 64.6
1. Wiltshire
Wiltshire ranks as the worst area for business in the UK in 2024 despite 1,980 new enterprises in 2021. The county experienced the second-biggest decline in business numbers (-2.78%) and has the third-lowest business survival rate (14.39%). With a GVA of £31.54 per hour worked, the average monthly pay is £2,292, leading to a moderate % rent-to-wage ratio of 36%. Despite a relatively high percentage (45.6%) of NVQ4+ qualified residents and a life satisfaction score 7.44, Wiltshire’s poor business environment results in the lowest overall score.
2. Luton
Luton ranks second from the bottom, with a 2.05% drop in business counts and 1,705 new enterprises in 2021. The business survival rate is critically low at 12.27%, though the GVA is slightly better at £35.96 per hour worked. The average monthly salary is £2,170, and the rent-to-wage ratio is 39.17%. Only 37.1% of residents have NVQ4+ qualifications, though Luton’s life satisfaction score is a relatively high 7.67.
3. Central Bedfordshire
Central Bedfordshire ranks third from the bottom, with the sharpest decline in business counts (-3.92%) and 1,450 new enterprises in 2021. The business survival rate is 14.06%, while the GVA per hour worked is £34.02. The area offers a balanced cost of living, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 33.22% based on a monthly wage of £2,739. The education level is moderate, with 41.7% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, and the life satisfaction score is 7.72.
4. Oldham
Oldham ranks fourth from the bottom, with 1,070 new enterprises in 2021 and a small increase in business counts (0.49%). The business survival rate is 25.26%, and the GVA per hour worked is £30.75. The area is affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 30.29%, though only 29.6% of residents have NVQ4+ qualifications. Oldham’s life satisfaction score is 7.51.
5. Bury
Bury ranks fifth-worst for business, with 1,645 new enterprises in 2021 and a slight increase in business counts (0.29%). The business survival rate is low at 21.48%, and the GVA is £30.55 per hour worked. The area has a comfortable rent-to-wage ratio of 29.32%, with 42.6% of the population holding NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.44.
6. Kensington and Chelsea
Kensington and Chelsea rank sixth from the bottom, with 1,910 new enterprises in 2021 and a slight growth in business counts (0.32%). The business survival rate is relatively high at 41.34%, and the GVA per hour worked is £43.29. However, the rent-to-wage ratio is the highest in the UK at 81.01%, with an average monthly pay of £3,086. The area is highly educated, with 63.9% holding NVQ4+ qualifications, but the life satisfaction score is the lowest at 7.18.
7. Blackpool
Blackpool ranks seventh from the bottom, with 540 new enterprises in 2021 and a slight decline in business counts (-0.08%). The business survival rate is 38.79%, but the GVA is low at £28.59 per hour worked. The area has the lowest average monthly salary (£1,764) but an affordable rent-to-wage ratio of 31.18%. Only 28.6% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications; the life satisfaction score is 7.44.
8. Doncaster
Doncaster ranks eighth from the bottom, with a 0.88% growth in business counts and 1,735 new enterprises in 2021. The business survival rate is 30.71%, and the GVA per hour worked is £28.43. The area is affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 25.47%, though only 27.2% of residents have NVQ4+ qualifications. Doncaster’s life satisfaction score is 7.43.
9. Redcar and Cleveland
Redcar and Cleveland rank ninth from the bottom, with 400 new enterprises in 2021 and a slight decline in business counts (-0.33%). The business survival rate is 35.71%, and the GVA per hour worked is £28.14, with a low average monthly pay of £1,908. The rent-to-wage ratio is 27.51%, and 33.4% of residents have NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.5.
10. Sunderland
Sunderland ranks tenth-worst, with 1,115 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.81% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 36.78%, and the GVA per hour worked is £38.24. The area is affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 27.54%, though only 24.7% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. Sunderland’s life satisfaction score is 7.23.
11. Sandwell
Sandwell ranks eleventh from the bottom, with 1,760 new enterprises in 2021 and a 2.15% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 36.88%, and the GVA per hour worked is £32.76. The area has a rent-to-wage ratio of 35.62%, with only 27.2% of residents holding NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.29.
12. Hartlepool
Hartlepool ranks twelfth from the bottom, with a 1.34% decline in business counts and 275 new enterprises in 2021. The business survival rate is 36.25%, and the GVA per hour worked is £31.85. The area is highly affordable, with the lowest rent-to-wage ratio of 22.94%, though only 30.2% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.42.
13. Southwark
Southwark ranks thirteenth from the bottom, with 2,825 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.35% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 32.28%, and the GVA per hour worked is £42.43. The area has a high rent-to-wage ratio of 61.98%, with 57.2% of residents holding NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.32.
14. Rochdale
Rochdale ranks fourteenth from the bottom, with 1,075 new enterprises in 2021 and a 1.60% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 33.04%, and the GVA per hour worked is £30.17. The area is affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 29.09%, though only 31.3% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.42.
15. Halton
Halton ranks fifteenth-worst, with 545 new enterprises in 2021 and a slight decline in business counts (-0.08%). The business survival rate is 34.40%, and the GVA per hour worked is £40.56. The area is affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 27.28%, though only 30.3% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.34.
16. Manchester
Manchester ranks sixteenth from the bottom, with 4,245 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.88% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 26.36%, and the GVA per hour worked is £36.04. The area has a high rent-to-wage ratio of 43.24%, though 45.1% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.45.
17. North East Lincolnshire
North East Lincolnshire ranks seventeenth from the bottom, with 580 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.54% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 38.46%, and the GVA per hour worked is £29.22. The area is highly affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 24.14%, though only 23.6% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.38.
18. Knowsley
Knowsley ranks eighteenth from the bottom, with 560 new enterprises in 2021 and a 0.54% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 36.11%, and the GVA per hour worked is £33.41. The area is moderately affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 28.68%, though only 31.2% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.36.
19. Nottingham
Nottingham ranks nineteenth from the bottom, with 1,350 new enterprises in 2021 and a 1.13% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 40.21%, and the GVA per hour worked is £32.77. The rent-to-wage ratio is 38.66%, with 41.9% of residents holding NVQ4+ qualifications. Nottingham’s life satisfaction score is 7.25.
20. Walsall
Walsall ranks twentieth-worst, with 1,535 new enterprises in 2021 and a 1.67% growth in business counts. The business survival rate is 37.10%, and the GVA per hour worked is £28.66. The area is moderately affordable, with a rent-to-wage ratio of 32.48%, though only 26.9% of residents hold NVQ4+ qualifications. The life satisfaction score is 7.42.
Image source: Freepik

Yorkshire Law Firm Scoops Duo Of Industry Awards

Yorkshire law firm Ison Harrison has enjoyed major success at the Yorkshire Legal Awards, one of the legal sector’s most prestigious industry events.

The firm was shortlisted for four awards in total, winning in the residential property and personal injury and clinical negligence categories.

The 25th Yorkshire Legal Awards ceremony was held at the First Direct Arena in Leeds.

The double award recognition comes hot on the heels of the firm’s most successful year in its history and just two years after it became entirely owned by its employees. Ison Harrison was the UK’s first law firm to become a 100% employee-owned business in 2022 after the three main shareholder directors agreed to sell the business to an Employee Ownership Trust.

With a regional team headcount of over 300, Ison Harrison has solidified its position as a regional legal powerhouse with 20 offices across Yorkshire.

Ison Harrison’s transition to become a 100% employee-owned business, was a pioneering move that underscored the firm’s progressive values and commitment to its employees. The employee-owned structure has fuelled further dynamic growth, with substantial client expansion and the opening of four new offices since becoming fully employee-owned, including two in the first half of this year alone.

In the past five years, the firm has doubled its turnover to £24 million, and this is expected to grow again in 2024, following the recent acquisition of Cohen Cramer Solicitors.

Ison Harrison opened its newest office in Selby in July. Selby is the fourth new office the firm has opened since becoming entirely employee-owned, after Wakefield in 2022, Doncaster in 2023, and Queensbury earlier this year.

Jonathan Wearing, managing director at Ison Harrison, commented: “After our most successful year ever last year, we are on course to surpass those results for 2024. To receive recognition in the Yorkshire Legal Awards by winning two awards is a tremendous achievement and representative of the outstanding collective effort and focus of our talented, growing team.”

Commenting on the residential property award win, Jenny Bland, director and head of property teams, said: “This accolade reflects our outstanding achievements in the property sector.  It’s a great achievement for the team to be recognised for its consistently first-class work.   We are very fortunate to have a very experienced team, who take great care of their clients, and each other.  Conveyancing is a tough industry, and takes a great deal of hard work to be successful.  This award is a fantastic acknowledgement of the hard work of the Property teams and reflects the enviable reputation that they have built.  We are proud to be one of the top 20 firms in the country for the number of property transactions registered with the Land Registry, whilst still maintaining our strong high street presence and personal service.”

Commenting on winning the personal injury & clinical negligence award, Gareth Naylor, director and head of personal injury and inquests, said: “Our unique team of specialists represent bereaved families at inquests with tenacity and compassion in what can be a very emotional and frustrating process. In recent years we have dealt with numerous high-profile and complex inquests and assisted families to affect change and to try and prevent future deaths. Our work doesn’t stop there, we then assist the bereaved family to litigate against those responsible again in the complex arena of the Human Rights Act.  We also represent individuals injured in accidents to secure not only the compensation they deserve, but any rehabilitation they require to help get their life back on track.

“Winning this award is a major achievement and deserved recognition for the hard work and dedication put in by our team.”

 

Added James Thompson, director & head of clinical negligence: “I’m extremely proud of the whole clinical negligence department and the sterling results they deliver for clients time and time again. They are truly exceptional, and I count myself lucky to be part of such a wonderful team. Our specialist clinical negligence solicitors ensure clients are always at the centre of everything we do. It is a privilege to guide and represent them.”

Ison Harrison currently hold 13 Law Society accreditations including Conveyancing Quality, Clinical Negligence, Children Law, Family Law, Immigration & Asylum, and SRA Higher Courts Rights – civil and criminal.

 

Further information about Ison Harrison is available at https://www.isonharrison.co.uk

Image caption: Ison Harrison team members celebrate the double award win

Business Breakfast scores a high five at Stadium Point

Members of the West Midlands commercial property and business communities gathered this week at a special event staged to showcase the first release of warehouse units at Morris Property’s landmark Stadium Point Business Park in Shrewsbury.

Staged inside one of the completed 10,000 sq ft energy-efficient units on the 28-acre site, guests enjoyed a hot breakfast and Q&A style presentation with Morris Property’s Chris Morris and Liz Lowe outlining the business opportunity at the highly anticipated new development, along with a guest appearance by Shrewsbury town legend and Welsh national team player Dave Edwards.

Chris Morris explained the importance of the site to the company – its single largest speculative project in its 155 years of trading history, highlighting Stadium Point’s location and connectivity as key drivers for the investment and development:

“There is very little supply of premium industrial units to the south side of Shrewsbury and as a long-standing business, we are able to look at the long term and invest in this unique opportunity.”

As front-of-shirt sponsors of neighbouring Shrewsbury Town FC, Morris Property invited Dave to share personal highlights about the beautiful game in his 19-year career, his transition into the business world and how his charitable children’s Foundation is changing lives.  Chris Morris later presented a cheque to Dave in support of the work his Little Rascals Foundation charity provides for the local community.

Toby Shaw from Towler Shaw Roberts, commercial agents for Stadium Point, ended the presentation reporting that the unique attributes of the site were generating substantial interest from local, regional and national operators, with several units already under offer.

“Stadium Point has been eagerly awaited being the most significant development in Shrewsbury for a number of years benefitting from its strategic location with ready access to the A5.

“The three new units signal a significant leap forward in commercial workspace here in Shrewsbury with their flexibility to be split or combined to allow for smaller or larger warehouse accommodation – spaces where businesses can plan for growth.”

Dave then kicked off proceedings for the morning’s Foot Darts competition which saw the former midfielder delivering a masterclass scoring a perfect hattrick.

Whilst competition heated up amongst agents, businesses and other guests vying to kick the sticky balls to take the top slot on the leader board, Liz Lowe and Toby Shaw hosted tours around a number of the finished units which range from 10 -20,800 sq ft.

“It was notable how interested our guests were not only in the quality and flexibility of the build here but also in the sustainability features we have designed into this site.  With our extensive network of footpaths, attenuation pools and stream running through the development as well as the green break-out spaces, it is clear that staff wellbeing and ecological considerations are very much part of decision-making for businesses today” commented Liz Lowe at the event.

“Our units feature integrated PV solar panels on the roof, 10% roof lights and EV charging points in dedicated car parking spaces and enhanced thermal cladding will all help end-occupiers minimise their operational costs” she added.

The event represents completion of the first phase of Zone 1 of the flagship development which started in January of this year. Designed across three zones, Stadium Point Business Park will offer a mix of commercial space, offices and a single food outlet which will serve the park and surrounding area. All units on the development will enjoy landscaped break-out areas, as well as convenient access to supermarkets, national clothes and food brands all within a 5 minute walk at Meole Brace Retail Park.

Works on Phase 2 of the build are nearing completion on course for release of a further 4 units in November 2024 including the development’s first office building, with Phase 3 already underway destined for a February 2025 completion.

77% of UK Businesses deem the Corporate Christmas Party the most important event of the year

77% of UK business leaders consider the annual corporate Christmas party the most important work event of the year, emphasising its significance in the corporate calendar.

 

The research, which surveyed hundreds of senior business leaders from a host of industry sectors [ranging from banking to pharmaceutical] on their perceptions of the corporate Christmas party, also revealed that 72% of businesses have a Christmas party every year without fail, with only 9% of companies refusing to celebrate the festive season – bah humbug!

This figure rises significantly with larger organisations with over 1,000 employees, where just 2% of businesses succumb to their inner Scrooge and opt out of Christmas celebrations.

 

Business leaders are increasingly investing in their annual Christmas parties, with average spending rising from £160 per head in 2022 to £172 in 2024. This trend aligns with a broader pattern of rising expenditures in corporate Christmas parties, which have seen a 7.7% annual increase. 61% of businesses now allocate more than £150 per head, while a mere 5% opt to spend less than £75 per head. These figures highlight a growing emphasis on delivering memorable and high-quality festive experiences for employees.

 

Organisations are now starting to plan their Christmas parties earlier, with a peak in enquiries seen during the months of July and August in 2023 and 2024. This marks a shift from the more cautious approach post-COVID in 2022, when enquiries were typically made later in the year, during September and October

With the build up to Christmas being an incredibly busy time of year, the survey revealed that 40% of senior business leaders outsourced Christmas party planning to events professionals, with 29% revealing that they sometimes secure external support and just 28% advising they manage the entire process themselves.

 

Interestingly, professional support is perhaps something more organisations should consider as the majority of respondents felt an increase in entertainment and games would make the corporate Christmas party more enjoyable, with key comments including: “More fun activities to make sure employees have a fun filled party” and “For improvements, I would suggest including more interactive games”.

 

Additional take outs from the research include:

 

  • 60% believe ‘employee good time’ to be the most important thing when planning a Christmas party, followed by cost [21%] and location [11%].

 

  • Socialising with colleagues [28%], Food and drink [26%], and theme and atmosphere [24%] are the main things respondents enjoyed about their Christmas party last year.

 

This research comes as Camm & Hooper unveil the festive themes for its portfolio of venues, with the iconic London sites set to become corporate party hot spots this Christmas.

 

Qamile Zejnullahi, Group Marketing Director of Camm & Hooper, mentioned: “The corporate Christmas party is definitely one of the most anticipated and celebrated events on the work Christmas calendar. We’ve observed a growing trend where organisations are reaching out and starting their event planning earlier starting in 2023. This perfectly aligns with over 70% of businesses moving up their Christmas celebration timelines.

“We’re super excited to roll out a different Christmas theme at each of our venues, each inspired by the venue’s unique vibe and character. We’re also planning many events for clients who have something specific in mind for their own celebrations. This is why I love our venues—there’s so much creativity involved in transforming blank canvas spaces into anything imaginable, offering incredible flexibility. With brands diving into in-brand experiences and embracing personalisation like never before, the possibilities are truly limitless. We are working with a number of exciting brands and can’t wait for the festive period to commence!”

 

With its client base comprising of household brands Netflix, Disney and Smirnoff, Google, Cup of Joe, Camm & Hooper boasts a growing portfolio of seven different venues across London and Glasgow.

 

For more information, visit:

https://cammhooper.com/venues/

HPI advises used car buyers on how to spot and avoid motoring scams.

Experts at HPI identify 109 stolen cars daily and over 2,000 as insurance write-offs. To help used car buyers avoid adding to these statistics, HPI has compiled the most common ways used car fraudsters operate and is advising how not to fall foul of their scams.

Many motoring scams have remained the same for years, while others employ the latest tech to hoodwink unsuspecting customers. In either case, a used car buyer’s best defence is familiarising themselves with popular scams.

 

Scams range from tech-based mileage-blocking devices and clearance fraud to more traditional schemes such as odometer clocking and vehicle registration cloning.

Mileage blockers are a relatively new type of scam tool introduced by fraudsters that alters a car’s true mileage reading. The device, which can be cheaply bought online, restricts and lowers the mileage of a vehicle whilst driving.

Mileage blockers connect with smartphones to instruct a car’s odometer on what value the owner wants the odometer to display or when to stop recording mileage. This practice is particularly unscrupulous because the owner can still provide a complete car service record history with bogus mileage that looks genuine and legal.

 

Under UK law, altering the mileage on a car is legal, but it is illegal to sell that car without disclosing any known mileage discrepancies to the buyer. However, it is possible to be prosecuted for mileage fraud under the Consumer Regulation Act if there is proof that the fraudsters are traders and have clocked a car for financial gain.

 

The practice of cloning involves changing a car’s identity. This usually happens because the car has been stolen, and thieves want to sell it quickly to an unsuspecting buyer. It can also happen when organised criminals want to avoid detection, so they clone a car that can’t be linked to them or, at a lower level, when offenders want to avoid paying traffic or parking fines generated by ANPR cameras.

Falsifying a car’s identity can involve changing the number plates, forging documents such as the V5 (the registration certificate) and tampering with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

 

Clearance fraud is one of the more modern and organised scams and is when criminals seek out vehicle owners with outstanding finances. Experts at HPI report that one in every three cars they check still has outstanding finance. The seller is responsible for paying any remaining motor finance – such as personal contract purchase (PCP) or hire purchase (HP) – before the car is transferred to a new owner because they do not technically own the vehicle until it has been paid off.

Clearance fraudsters contact unsuspecting owners and offer to pay off the finance on their behalf if they sell them the car. Criminals will buy the vehicle for less than market value and then sell it for a profit without paying off the finance. That means the subsequent owner has a car with financial baggage that should never have been sold in the first place and which they cannot legally sell on.

 

Clocking involves reducing the odometer reading to make it look as though the mileage is lower than it really is. The lower the mileage, the greater the value, so buyers are deceived into thinking the car is worth more, and it could well be hiding a much greater level of wear and tear.

Checking a car for mileage discrepancies comes as standard in the HPI Check. By building up a history of a vehicle’s mileage across multiple data sources and millions of records, any discrepancies are highlighted, arming car buyers with the information and confidence they need when dealing with used cars. The company is continually making enhancements to its data as it invests to help motorists tackle fraud.

An HPI check will also verify the VIN number, provide a guide valuation and estimated fuel costs, and include an MOT history check.

Jon Clay, identification director at HPI, (pictured above) commented: “An HPI check is a one-stop shop to guard against vehicle fraud, but there are also plenty of things to look out for when inspecting a used car in person that can reveal a scam.

“When buying any used vehicle, it’s essential to understand its history. The HPI Check will flag any worrying information held against the vehicle by finance and insurance companies, the DVLA, the Police and other industry bodies. A comprehensive HPI Check is vital before buying a used car and is the first line of defence against vehicle fraud. Also, when conducting a mileage check, we can identify any mileage discrepancies using our extensive database with over 500m mileage records.”

 

HPI first launched its vehicle history check in 1938, highlighting that used car scams are nothing new. Conveniently absent documents, questionable mileage or something in a car’s back story that doesn’t quite stack up are just a few indicators that a potential purchase may not be all it seems.

 

Added Jon Clay: “Checking a car’s mileage with HPI, as well as looking more closely at the vehicle’s comprehensive history, can give prospective buyers peace of mind regarding mileage and vehicle provenance, and can lead to safer, happier motoring.”

For more information and advice, visit the HPI motoring scams blog.