Category Archives: Business & Property News

Business & Property News, Law

Did the Post Office commit perjury? Compliance expert answers vital questions regarding the Horizon scandal

The ITV drama series, based on a true story: “Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office,” has forced action on one of the worst miscarriages of justice in British history.

Ongoing developments have prompted a compliance expert from the compliance training service, Skillcast to provide insights into the intricacies of the case.

With the situation intensifying, Vivek Dodd, CEO of Skillcast, has offered his expert opinion and answered a few compliance-related questions regarding the case:

  1. What violations did Fujitsu’s unauthorised access and manipulation of financial data breach?

Upon legal confirmation, these actions could be deemed clear violations of existing laws and regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Vivek says, “The revelation during the trials that Fujitsu could access and manipulate financial figures on sub-postmasters’ local systems without their knowledge or consent raises grave concerns regarding breaches of data privacy and security regulations.”

  1. How does the deceptive information provided to sub-postmasters by Fujitsu elicit concerns regarding trust and potential violations?

“The deliberate misinformation provided to sub-postmasters, assuring them that no one had access to their systems, is a clear breach of trust,” Vivek states. “From a compliance standpoint, this deceptive practice violates employment and professional standards, which often prohibit false or misleading information provided to individuals in the workplace.

He continues, “If substantiated, charges related to perverting the course of justice and committing perjury must be pursued against the Post Office for providing false information during the trial and throughout mediation. This case exposes systemic flaws in the justice system, requiring immediate action to rectify injustices and hold those responsible accountable.”

  1. What potential concerns arise from the Post Office’s financial conduct?

Vivek asserts, “If the Post Office acquired funds from postmasters through deceptive means, it raises significant concerns of fraudulent activity. In the event of proven misconduct, the associated funds may be deemed proceeds of crime, potentially leading to money laundering charges against those involved in such facilitation.”

Moreover, he emphasises, “This situation highlights the immediate need to thoroughly examine all financial practices involved to preserve the public’s trust in institutional integrity.”

  1. What are the implications for the and possible legal consequences?

No disciplinary action has been initiated against senior Post Office staff to date. While the exact responsible parties remain unclear, this matter is anticipated to be subject to extensive investigation.

Vivek expresses, “These allegations pose a significant threat to the reputation and integrity of the Post Office, and if substantiated, may result in severe legal and financial repercussions for the involved parties.”

He adds, “If prosecuted, the involved parties, including staff who misled sub-postmasters, could face serious legal consequences, potentially leading to imprisonment, substantial financial penalties, and enduring damage to their professional reputations.”

Business, Business & Property News, interior design, Interiors, News

Elevating Productivity and Passion: The SJP Interiors Approach to Workspace Transformation

In the heart of Milton Keynes, a company stands out for its exceptional ability to transform ordinary workspaces into extraordinary environments that inspire productivity and success. SJP Interiors, with 60 years of expertise in office and commercial refurbishment and fit out, has become a beacon of innovation in the industry. With a commitment to personalised solutions and client satisfaction, SJP Interiors has consistently delivered outstanding results, earning recognition from top UK contractors, including Morgan Sindall.

About SJP Interiors

SJP Interiors specialises in crafting dynamic workspaces that elevate productivity and ignite a deep passion for work. Their core mission revolves around transforming outdated offices and commercial environments into spaces where innovation thrives and motivation soars. With six decades of experience, they have honed their skills and developed a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in creating exceptional workspaces.

The company’s team of experts is at the forefront of the industry, equipped with the knowledge and creativity needed to turn vision into reality. What sets SJP Interiors apart is its commitment to tailoring solutions to the specific needs of each business it serves. They understand that no two workplaces are alike, and as such, their designs and strategies are personalised to maximise efficiency and inspire success.

Services Offered

SJP Interiors’ portfolio of services encompasses everything a business needs to transform its workspace. From comprehensive commercial interior transformations to refreshing existing spaces, seamless relocations, and expert guidance, their offerings are designed to support clients at every step of their workspace transformation journey.

One of their key strengths lies in their ability to seamlessly relocate businesses while minimizing downtime and disruption. This service is crucial for companies looking to transition to a new location without compromising their day-to-day operations.

Design Philosophy

SJP Interiors’ design philosophy revolves around creating workspaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly ergonomic and efficient. They understand that a well-designed workspace can have a profound impact on employee morale, creativity, and productivity. Their designs are carefully curated to inspire innovation and motivation among employees, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the business.

Furthermore, SJP Interiors places client satisfaction at the forefront of its endeavours. Their commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget ensures that clients can rely on them for a hassle-free workspace transformation experience. The company’s track record of success and happy clients attests to their dedication to excellence.

Awards and Recognition

SJP Interiors’ exceptional work has not gone unnoticed. In recent years, they have been awarded top UK contractor accolades, including recognition from industry giants like Morgan Sindall. These awards serve as a testament to their expertise and their ability to consistently deliver on their promise of transforming workspaces into inspiring environments.

SJP Interiors stands as a shining example of excellence in workspace transformation. Their dedication to crafting dynamic, efficient, and inspiring workspaces has earned them recognition and trust within the industry. For businesses in Milton Keynes and beyond, SJP Interiors is the partner of choice when it comes to elevating productivity and passion in the workplace. If you’re seeking to transform your workspace into an exceptional environment that inspires success, look no further than SJP Interiors. Contact them today to embark on a journey towards a brighter and more productive future for your business.

 

Business & Property News

Preventing Ice Dams: Gutter Cleaning Tips for Winter Roof Protection

As the proper British winter approaches, it’s important to prepare your home and business for the cold weather and potential hazards that come with it. One such hazard is the formation of ice dams on your roof, which can cause significant damage if not addressed properly. 

One of the most effective ways to prevent ice dams is by keeping your gutters clean and free of debris. In this article, we will discuss the importance of gutter cleaning for winter roof protection and share some tips to help you prevent ice dams.

The Role of Gutters in Ice Dam Prevention

Gutters play a crucial role in preventing ice dams from forming on your roof. When your gutters are clogged with debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, they cannot effectively channel the meltwater away from your roof. This can lead to the formation of ice dams, which occur when the meltwater refreezes before reaching the gutters and forms a barrier. As more meltwater accumulates behind the ice dam, it can seep under the shingles, causing leaks and water damage to your home’s interior.

Gutter Cleaning Tips for Winter Roof Protection

Schedule Regular Gutter Cleanings

Regular gutter cleanings are essential for maintaining their functionality and preventing ice dams. Plan to clean your gutters at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. However, if you live in an area with heavy foliage or frequent storms, you may need to clean them more often. Cleaning your gutters before winter sets in can help ensure they are clear of debris and able to effectively carry away meltwater.

Use the Right Tools and Safety Equipment

When cleaning your gutters, it’s important to use the right tools and safety equipment. A sturdy ladder with standoff stabilisers can help provide a safe and stable platform for accessing your gutters. Additionally, use a gutter cleaning scoop or a small trowel to remove debris, and a hose or pressure washer to flush out any remaining dirt or grime. Don’t forget to wear gloves and protective eyewear to keep yourself safe during the cleaning process.

Clear the Downspouts

In addition to cleaning the gutters themselves, it’s crucial to clear the downspouts as well. Downspouts can become clogged with debris over time, preventing proper drainage. Use a plumber’s snake or a garden hose with a nozzle attachment to clear any blockages. Ensuring that the downspouts are clear will help prevent water from backing up and pooling near your roof, reducing the risk of ice dam formation.

Install Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are a great investment if you want to minimise the amount of debris that enters your gutters. These guards, which come in various types and materials, act as a barrier, preventing leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging your gutters. While they may not completely eliminate the need for regular cleaning, they can significantly reduce the frequency at which you have to clean your gutters.

Insulate Your Loft

Proper loft insulation can help prevent ice dams by maintaining a consistent temperature on your roof. When your loft is poorly insulated, warm air from inside your home can escape through the roof, causing the snow on your roof to melt unevenly. This uneven melting can contribute to the formation of ice dams. By ensuring that your loft is adequately insulated, you can help regulate the temperature on your roof and minimise the risk of ice dam formation.

Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure about how to clean your gutters or if you have a particularly large or complex gutter system, it’s best to consult a professional. Gutter cleaning professionals have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively clean your gutters. They can also inspect your gutters for any signs of damage or other issues that may contribute to ice dam formation, ensuring that your gutter system is in optimal condition.

Bottom Line

Preventing ice dams should be a priority for homeowners during the winter months. Keeping your gutters clean and free of debris is an essential part of preventing ice dams from forming.

 

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help protect your roof from damage caused by ice dams and ensure the safety and integrity of your home. 

 

Remember to schedule regular gutter cleanings, use the right tools and safety equipment, clear the downspouts, consider installing gutter guards, insulate your attic, and consult a professional if needed. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a winter season without the worry of ice dam-related issues.

Business & Property News

DIY Aerial Installation: Understanding the Risks and Rewards

Are you considering installing your own aerial for better TV reception? DIY aerial installation can be a rewarding project that saves you money and gives you greater control over your television setup. 

However, it’s important to understand the risks involved and have a clear understanding of the rewards before starting this project. 

In this article, we will delve into the topic of DIY aerial installation, discussing the risks you may encounter and the rewards you can expect to achieve.

Understanding the Risks

Safety Hazards

When it comes to aerial installation, safety should always be a top priority. Installing an aerial requires working at heights, which can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Some of the risks involved include:

  • Falling from ladders or roofs: Working at height increases the risk of falls, which can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Make sure to use the right ladder for the job and follow safety guidelines to minimise the risk of falls.
  • Electrical hazards: Aerial installation involves working with electrical equipment. If not handled properly, it can lead to electrical shocks or fires. Ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle electrical connections safely.
  • Roof damage: Improper installation techniques can cause damage to your roof, leading to leaks and other structural issues. It’s important to follow guidelines and use appropriate equipment to prevent any damage to your property.

Technical Complexity

Aerial installation may seem simple, but it requires technical skills and knowledge. Understanding signal frequencies, antenna positioning, and signal strength can be challenging for beginners. Some of the technical risks involved include:

  • Poor signal reception: Incorrect antenna positioning or installation can result in poor signal reception, leading to a weak or disrupted TV signal.
  • Interference: Failure to account for potential sources of interference, such as nearby buildings or trees, can affect the quality of the TV signal.
  • Incorrect cabling: Using incorrect cables or connectors can impact the overall signal quality. It’s essential to have a good understanding of the correct cabling and connectors required for your setup.

The Rewards of DIY Aerial Installation

Cost Savings

One of the significant advantages of DIY aerial installation is the potential cost savings. By installing the aerial yourself, you can save money on professional installation fees. However, it’s important to weigh these savings against the risks involved and your own capabilities.

Increased Control

By installing your own aerial, you have greater control over your TV setup. You can choose the positioning and direction of the antenna to optimise signal reception. This control allows you to achieve the best possible signal strength for your specific location.

Learning Experience

DIY aerial installation can be a valuable learning experience. It allows you to gain a better understanding of how your TV setup works and the factors that contribute to good signal reception. This knowledge can be useful in troubleshooting any future issues with your aerial or making adjustments for better performance.

Flexibility

Installing your own aerial gives you the flexibility to make changes and adjustments as needed. If you want to optimise your TV reception or upgrade your equipment in the future, you can do so without relying on professional help.

Personal Satisfaction

Completing a DIY aerial installation successfully can provide a great sense of personal satisfaction and accomplishment. It’s a tangible result of your efforts and can give you confidence in undertaking other DIY projects in the future.

 

Bottom Line

DIY aerial installation can be a rewarding endeavour, but it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. Safety should always be the top priority, and if you’re unsure about your technical capabilities, it may be best to seek professional aerial assistance. 

 

However, if you have the necessary skills and knowledge, DIY aerial installation can save you money, give you greater control over your TV setup, and provide a valuable learning experience. Just remember to research and plan carefully before starting the project to ensure the best results.

Business & Property News, Caerphilly, Employee Engagement, News

Thomas Carroll Group transitions into Employee Ownership

The independent insurance, employee benefits, risk and wealth management company has created an Employee Ownership Trust for its 181 employees, in time to mark its 51st birthday

Thomas Carroll Group, the independent insurance, risk and wealth management group, has handed over the reins to its employees as part of an Employee Ownership Trust, turning it into one of the biggest Employee-Owned businesses in Wales.

The Caerphilly-based company was established in 1972 by Evan Thomas and Terry Carroll when they were given the chance to buy a commercial account from another broker, and Thomas Carroll was born.

After various acquisitions, multiple office moves and additional openings, more than 50 years later Evan’s son and current CEO of the Group, Rhys Thomas, has spearheaded the company’s latest move into Employee Ownership, meaning the 181 employees now own a share of the business.

Explaining why Thomas Carroll Group has decided to go into EOT, Rhys said: “This is all part of our long-term succession plan for the business. The EOT model very much reflects the ethos of the group, one which has been in place since my father and Terry founded the company 51 years ago, and one which we now want to pass on to the next generation.

“The Group’s success has been built by the people we employ and have employed over the years, and we wanted to give back. We wanted to respect the legacy and heritage of those that built this wonderful company and to find a suitable way to achieve a successful succession plan at the same time – and we believe that EOT does all of this.”

Rhys added: “We also wanted a succession solution that would benefit our clients and we believe that an EOT achieves this, as we will remain independent and able to offer them the best help and advice available. Also, thanks to the EOT the continuity of service will remain as there is no changes in the management team, just a shift in ownership.

“We’ve never entertained a trade sale and are fiercely independent, have been for more than 50 years, and wish to remain so. Within that time, we’ve seen many competitors being sold and swallowed up by larger companies and our industry, in turn being monopolised by a few businesses – that has never been an option for us. We believe the EOT structure of the business will deliver a better future for our clients, colleagues, and the communities we work in – it’s a total win.”

“We have a great leadership team in place at Thomas Carroll Group that we know will be able to continue the growth strategy of the business and guide the rest of the employees through this transition period. So, this is a really exciting time for us as the Directors of the company, as well as for our employees, to be at the start of something amazing that is really going to make us stand out from the crowd in our sector,” Rhys explained.

Rhys and his fellow board Directors have no plans to leave the business and will continue in post to ensure a smooth transition into
Employee Ownership and the further growth of the business.

Rhys continued: “Operationally the business will remain the same, but the EOT will allow us to strategically evolve longer term. I know this is the right thing for us as a business and, I believe, for the future of our industry.

“This is also a really exciting time for anyone looking to join us. We are currently actively employing people who want to be part of this new journey for Thomas Carroll Group – those who want to work for a company that is invested in the future of its employees, that wants to stand out from the crowd and is independent to its core.”

Thomas Carroll Group was advised on its EO transition by Geldards solicitors, McTaggarts, Kilsby Williams, Azets and MHA.

Business & Property News, Business Mergers, Acquisitions & Partnerships, Cardiff News, IT Services

Flotek Completes Tenth Successful Acquisition Branching into the Hospitality Sector

Prolific IT and Managed Service Provider, Flotek Group, has acquired IT & telecommunications company Orbiss in a deal advised on by the GS Verde Group. The acquisition marks the tenth successful acquisition for fast-growing Flotek.

The strategic acquisition of Truro-based Orbiss has enabled Flotek to expand its presence in the Southwest, to grow its team to 72 employees, and increase its revenue to £8.5m. The acquisition unlocks new areas of growth for Flotek, as Orbiss specialises in providing IT & telecommunication solutions to the hospitality industry (notably working with large clients such as Best Western and Holiday Inn).

Orbiss marks the first stage of Flotek’s growth into the hospitality sector, and the Cornish business will form a key part of Flotek’s offering in Southwest England, bolstering the Plymouth team to serve more clients in that area. Flotek has already dedicated resources to support the Orbiss team and its customers’ integration, retaining the expertise that Orbiss has established over the years.

Jay Ball, Flotek CEO, has known Orbiss owners, Karen McGowan and Karen Patterson for over 16 years, making Flotek Group well-placed to take Orbiss into the future.

Speaking on the acquisition, Jay said: “We are so pleased that Orbiss has joined the Flotek Group. I have worked with Karen McGowan and Karren Patterson for a long time, assisting them with engineers on the ground, and their 35-year experience in the sector is invaluable to us. The culture and passion at Orbiss align with the culture and values of Flotek, making it a perfect fit for the Group. The acquisition will enable us to accelerate our foothold in the hospitality market across the UK and continue to grow our services as a Managed IT & Communications solutions provider in the South West.”

Karen McGowan, co-owner of Orbiss, commented: “Working with Jay for over 16 years has allowed us to build a great amount of trust in his service, and we’re excited for our team and customers to be part of Flotek Group’s ambitious plans for the future.”

Karen Patterson added: “We are very much looking forward to being part of Flotek’s phenomenal growth and are delighted to continue serving our nationwide customers alongside our team that has helped us make the business what it is, now with Flotek’s service offering of nationwide IT & Cyber Security Support and client base behind us.”

GS Verde was delighted to have assisted Flotek on their landmark 10th acquisition in 18 months. Their multidiscipline team consisting of law, finance, tax, and communications expertise has advised on each Flotek acquisition from deal structuring through to completion.

Business & Property News, News, Scotland

6 Big developments in Scottish business and investment you need to know about

Scottish innovation is alive and well, with a new generation of entrepreneurs creating products with the potential to meet some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Innovation was the theme at this year’s Scottish International Week 2023 – a common thread weaving together Scottish leaders worldwide. Throughout this week-long event, leaders gathered to celebrate, innovate and unite under a collective vision – empowering Scottish businesses for the future.

The online and in-person conference, which was the biggest since its 2017 launch, included 20 events on the main agenda, with dozens of others taking place on the fringes. Among the four major focus areas discussed during the week were: Talent, Digital, Games, and IoT. These themes produced numerous big takeaways which, according to Scottish Business Network chairman Russell Dalgleish, demonstrate how much potential there is in both Scotland and its diaspora.

“I’ve long believed that Scotland’s diaspora, particularly those who are active in the business sector, is one of its biggest strengths,” he said. “This year’s Scottish International Week demonstrated how big of an advantage it is, particularly when it comes to encouraging investment and partnerships with domestic entrepreneurs and enterprises.”

If Scotland is to make the most of the advantage that its diaspora offers, Dalgleish says, it must take heed of the lessons from six of the event’s biggest takeaways.

 

1. Growing, global ambitions

According to Dalgleish, one of the biggest takeaways from the week was how determined Scottish entrepreneurs are to make a mark not just on their home cities and country but on the entire globe.

“During the week, there was clear evidence of a growing desire by Scottish founders to address global rather than local challenges,” says Dalgleish. “This global first mindset was strongest amongst early-stage companies.”

If those entrepreneurs are to meet their global ambitions, then international networks will be vital. Here, the Scottish diaspora will be critical.

 

2. GovTech increases in importance

One area where conference attendees identified significant opportunities is in the GovTech sector. While it’s difficult to pin down an exact definition of GovTech, from an entrepreneurial perspective, it’s probably best to think of it as technology companies providing innovation through products and services to the government, to improve public sector service delivery.

According to Dalgleish, that’s hardly surprising given how invested Scotland’s been in the sector for some time.

“GovTech was a prominent subject discussed during the week and Scotland’s global leadership position was acknowledged,” he said.

In particular, he pointed to the success of the government’s ongoing CivTech programme. Dalgleish also noted that the recent launch of a dedicated Govtech cluster is attracting global interest.

 

3. Scotland’s culture of collaboration a cause for celebration

In popular culture and much of the public imagination, innovation is the result of brilliant individuals putting in long hours of lonely hard work. In truth, however, innovation is really about collaboration. And, according to Dalgleish, the embrace of collaboration during Scottish International Week should be a cause for celebration.

“In talks covering culture, politics, business and education much was said about how the unique Scottish culture of collaboration across sectors makes Scotland a welcoming environment for international companies looking for a European base,” he said.

 

4. Could Scotland become an AI powerhouse?

Given how rapidly artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT and Midjourney have made their way into the public’s consciousness, it should hardly be surprising that it was the dominant technology theme of the week.

Here too Dalgleish believes that Scotland’s heritage in the sector could serve the country well.

“Edinburgh’s long history in machine learning and AI in particular (Edinburgh University’s School of Informatics this year celebrated 60 years of research and development in the sector) positions the country well for the future,” he says.

 

5. Insight and support from the global diaspora

Another big insight to come from the week was how invested the Scottish business diaspora is in ensuring that Scottish businesses are successful.

“The global Scottish diaspora contributed content and insight to the week,” says Dalgleish. “That’s important because it acts as a support network for Scottish companies with international ambition. During the week, introductions were made from Scotland to the world which we will now watch flourish over the coming months.”

 

6. Diversity is an imperative     

One of the most impactful parts of this year’s Scottish International Week was the Black Talent Conference. Held at Heart of Midlothian Football Ground, the conference shed light on the need to provide more support to ethnic minority groups to ensure their talents were best utilised.

In the aftermath of the conference, Dalgleish announced plans for a programme to help address this issue through improving candidate/employer engagement.

 

A solid foundation for growth

“As a longtime advocate for Scottish business as a global force, Scottish International Week provided much cause for optimism,” said Dalgleish. “It’s clear that Scottish innovators and entrepreneurs, both domestic and abroad, are hungry to make their mark on the world.”

“It’s only by building on Scotland’s long history of innovation and penchant for collaboration that this vision will become a reality,” he concluded. “But if we can build on the advances made during Scottish International Week then that reality may be closer than ever.”

Business & Property News, Mid Wales, News, Tourism, Wales News

Conference speakers urge Welsh Government to listen to tourism industry

Tourism leaders have called on Welsh Government ministers to listen to the industry when developing policies that will impact businesses.

The call came from Wales Tourism Alliance (WTA) chairman Suzy Davies and Steve Hughson, chairman of both the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum and the Event Wales Industry Advisory Group, when speaking at the Mid Wales Tourism Conference.

The sell-out conference, which attracted 120 delegates as well as exhibitors and sponsors, was held at the Metropole Hotel and Spa, Llandrindod Wells. The event was organised by MWT Cymru, an independent organisation representing around 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia.

Mrs Davies said the WTA, which represents around 6,000 businesses in all sectors of tourism industry across Wales, was working with others to restore the industry’s relationship with the Welsh Government.

Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum Steve Hughson addresses the conference.

There had been a breakdown in communications stemming from the introduction of the 182-day rule for self-catering accommodation in Wales. Self-catering accommodation that fails to be occupied for 182 days of the year now risks paying much higher council tax.

The WTA has been talking to the Welsh Government about the impact of the 182-day rule, a tourism tax and statutory registration of tourism accommodation, but Mrs Davies said it had not been listening and businesses had lost faith in the consultation processes.

“The current engagement structures don’t work for either the Welsh Government or the tourism industry,” she added. “The  industry must be in the room when the Welsh Government shapes and designs policy and we need to be listened to.”

She said there were signs that the Welsh Government was now beginning to listen to the industry’s collective voice, as a review of the 182-day rule had been promised and the tourism tax had been delayed until 2027.

“There is now a much better understanding of what we have been all saying for the past 18 months,” she added. “We must never find ourselves in this position again which is why we have organised a symposium in Newtown in January and we hope the Welsh Government will attend.”

Mr Hughson also stressed the importance of a united tourism industry working closely with the Welsh Government to influence and shape policies to ensure that they work well when introduced.

“We can get the Welsh Government and Visit Wales to change, so long as we work in partnership in a polite, respectful and evidence-based way,” he said. “It has never been more important that we work together.”

Regional tourism forums across Wales had an important role in making Welsh Government ministers in different policy areas aware of the cumulative effect of their policies on the tourism industry, he added.

MWT Cymru chairman Rowland Rees-Evans speaking at the Mid Wales Tourism Conference 2023.
Picture by Phil Blagg Photography.
PB220-2023

MWT Cymru chairman Rowland Rees-Evans thanked both Mrs Davies and Mr Hughson for their work on behalf of tourism businesses during a challenging time for the industry.

He referred to four consultation papers issued by the Welsh Government. “They will undoubtedly have a major impact on the industry when the legislation is implemented,” he said.

“We are already starting to see the effect of 182-day rule on self-catering holidays. As it stands at the moment, next year we will also have full business rates to contend with, among other changes.

“MWT Cymru has always tried to look after its members, business partners and community groups with help and support from our great team who try to get ahead of the curve whenever new legislation, rules and regulations are being put in front of us.”

Despites concerns about new legislation, he said there were positive signs that 2024 could be a better year for tourism businesses. Forward bookings were healthier than the same time last year and there was feeling that people, who did not take a holiday in Mid Wales this year due to the cost of living crisis, would return in 2024.

Header image caption:

Wales Tourism Alliance chairman Suzy Davies being interviewed by Phil Blizzard for a conference podcast.

Business, Business & Property News, Commercial Property, News, Technology

Valutico and Eden Exchange Team Up to Make Company Valuation More Accessible for SMEs

 Valutico x Eden Exchange: A Better Way To Value Your Business

  • Valutico, a leading valuation software provider, has partnered with Eden Exchange, the premier M&A marketplace for SMEs.
  • The partnership will provide Eden Exchange users with quick and easy indicative valuations of their businesses, empowering them to make more informed decisions about when to sell and for how much.
  • Valutico’s cutting-edge software, MyValutico, will be integrated into Eden Exchange’s platform, enabling thousands of companies on Eden Exchange to perform quick, indicative valuations.
  • Valutico’s analytics and data offering will be enhanced as a result of the partnership, making Valutico even more tailored for financial professionals

Eden Exchange, the premier M&A marketplace for SMEs has announced a new partnership with Valutico, a leading valuation software provider. This groundbreaking partnership will provide Eden Exchange users with quick and easy indicative valuations of their businesses, empowering them to make more informed decisions about when to sell and for how much.

Valutico’s award-winning business valuation software, MyValutico, allows people to input information and receive an accurate valuation in minutes, for a fraction of the cost of a traditional business valuation. MyValutico will integrate into Eden Exchange’s revolutionary virtual lead room, DealXchange, providing Eden Exchange users with even more transparency around their selling campaigns.

The partnership will allow Eden Exchange to provide its users with a quick and easy way to get an estimate of the value of their business, without having to commission a full valuation report. This will help users to make more informed decisions about when to sell their business and for how much, at an early stage in the buy-sell process.

The software will also customise the valuation questionnaire, asking only pertinent questions informed by the data already collected by Eden Exchange. These indicative valuations are generated based on a variety of factors, including the company’s financial performance, location and industry.

As part of the partnership, Eden Exchange plans to provide proprietary anonymised transaction data, helping to further strengthen Valutico’s ability to provide accurate indicative valuations to businesses of all sizes. This data will be used to enhance Valutico’s analytics and provide insights based on location, industry, and description, making Valutico’s software even more valuable and tailored, particularly for finance professionals.

For both current and new Eden Exchange clients, this partnership can help you better understand the true value of a business when you’re in the early stages of preparing to sell. Eden Exchange and Valutico are both committed to helping business owners everywhere buy and sell businesses for the right price, no matter whether it’s your first time buying or selling a business, or you’ve been involved in a range of business transactions.

       Dhanush Ganglani

Speaking about the partnership, Eden Exchange’s Managing Director, Dhanush Ganglani, said, “Partnering with Valutico is another step towards revolutionising the way people are able to buy and sell businesses. Valutico’s technology leverages proprietary data on precedent transactions, democratising valuable information about public and private markets that is usually only available to the world’s top firms. Combining Valutico’s market-leading business valuation technology with Eden Exchange’s virtual deal room, DealXchange, allows us to provide more transparency to business buyers and sellers, helping them better understand the true value of a business.”

 

Paul Resch

Paul Resch, CEO of Valutico, echoed Dhanush’s thoughts. “Valutico’s mission is to make company valuation more accessible and understandable. Collaborating with Eden Exchange aligns perfectly with that mission. This partnership adds significant value to our data analysis, ultimately benefiting our customers.”

Want to know more about this partnership and how it could help you? Contact the team at Eden Exchange today to find out more. You can learn more about Valutico here.

 

About Eden Exchange

Eden Exchange is a revolutionary online marketplace for buying and selling businesses. Its premier, all-in-one platform seamlessly connects buyers and sellers, reshaping the landscape of business transactions. With an extensive network with expertise in business sales, Eden Exchange guides clients and users through each step of the business transaction, offering support from lead and deal origination to preparation and transaction. Trusted by an extensive range of clients, including renowned brands such as The Cheesecake Shop, Roll’d Australia and Poolwerx, Eden Exchange has become the go-to destination for businesses of all sizes to achieve their goals. For more information, visit edenexchange.com.

 

About Valutico:

Valutico is a valuation software company that offers cutting-edge solutions for businesses. Their software empowers users to perform valuations efficiently, accurately, and quickly, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making.

Business & Property News, Global Mobility, International News, Logistics, News

Bristol’s 1st Move International reveals the Top 40 global destinations that UK expats are moving to

Middle Eastern countries are rising rapidly up the table of desirable destinations for Brits moving abroad, according to figures by a leading international removals firm.

Data from Bristol-based 1st Move International show Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates becoming increasingly popular expat destinations, with the UAE displacing the likes of Canada and New Zealand at the upper end of the table.

Analysis of more than 40,000 international moves since 2019, including over 6,000 in 2023, paints a fascinating picture of where Brits are choosing to move to post-Covid.

As ever, the USA and Australia are at the very top of the list, with more than 1,000 moving to each destination this year alone. Next up is the UAE, which has climbed to third in the table, followed by Canada and New Zealand.

Cyprus jumps one place to sixth, with South Africa falling behind in seventh, before a static Singapore in eighth, Brazil in ninth and Saudi Arabia climbing one place to tenth.

Further down the table, big movers include Barbados, jumping 22 places to claim 18th place, Costa Rica up 22 to 23rd, the Bahamas up 21 to 25th, Trinidad and Tobago up 11 to 27th, Hong Kong up 12 to 32nd, Panama up 24 to 33rd and the Dominican Republic up 58 places to 35th.

Other popular destinations featuring in the top 40 include Turkey, Thailand, the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and Japan. 1st Move International does not operate in mainland European destinations.

Mike Harvey, managing director of 1st Move International, said: “We wouldn’t divulge individual reasons for moving, but anecdotally we are clear that our customers are citing many benefits of moving to destinations like the Middle East, as well as the Caribbean.

“An obvious one is the weather, with a dry and sunny climate all year round, alongside a high standard of living and an already large population of British expats to socialise with.

“Economically, there is significant development in countries like the UAE and Brits moving there can enjoy tax-free salaries in job sectors such as finance, healthcare and education.

“Inflation is currently sitting at just over 2.2%, which is much lower than the UK and other EU countries, with the Dirham being pegged to the US Dollar providing exchange rate stability.

“The Middle East is also a central location for travel to Europe as well as Asia and Australasia, making it a good base for travel-minded professionals.”

Mr Harvey explained that the increasing number of moves to desirable locations like the Caribbean could be due to people’s change in perceptions of what is possible, post Covid.

“To move a whole family abroad might be something of an undertaking,” he said. “But for many people without family ties the ability to work remotely means they can easily and practically live anywhere in the world. In fact, even moving with a family is not perceived as arduous a task as it used to be.

“We hear of people deciding they can make things work in a far-flung destination with a warm climate, blue skies and sunny beaches – coming back to the UK occasionally if necessary but generally based somewhere like Mexico, Bermuda or Thailand.

“And in an urban context, if you look at indexes like the Numbeo Quality of Life Survey then you’ll see places like Abu Dhabi rising rapidly up the scales.

“In terms of perception, something which 50 years ago might have seemed like a major life move can now be managed much more easily.”

The company said that while all moves are personal rather than corporate, many are often managed and reimbursed by employers as part of a business move abroad.

1st Move International are based in Avonmouth, Bristol and have been managing international removals for over 25 years.

For more on this topic please visit www.shipit.co.uk/blog/international-moving-trends-2023 or www.shipit.co.uk.