Author: Sam Allcock

Char.gy, a leading UK electric vehicle (EV) charging provider, has been awarded B Corporation (B Corp) certification, joining a global network of companies committed to balancing profit with purpose. The certification, granted by the non-profit B Lab, recognises companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This milestone reflects Char.gy’s dedication to driving the UK’s green transport agenda, particularly by offering accessible, sustainable EV charging solutions. The company operates a network of over 3,600 public charging points across the country, all powered by 100% renewable energy, with the aim of making EV charging more accessible…

The inaugural Saxony-Anhalt Business Award 2024 has honoured two companies for their exceptional contributions to the region’s economic development. Presented by Sven Schulze, Minister for Economic Affairs, Tourism, Agriculture and Forestry of Saxony-Anhalt, the awards were given to companies that have made a significant impact through innovation, commitment, and overcoming economic challenges. Speaking at the awards ceremony held at the Old Theater in Magdeburg, Minister Schulze highlighted the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in driving the state’s economic growth. “Small and medium-sized businesses, as well as start-ups, are the backbone of our economy,” Schulze said. “Their…

When it comes to washing machines, most people are familiar with domestic models designed for everyday household use. However, commercial washing machines serve a completely different purpose and are designed to meet the demanding needs of businesses like laundromats, hotels, and healthcare facilities. While they share a similar goal – to clean clothes – commercial and domestic washing machines differ significantly in terms of design, performance, and functionality. 1. Capacity and Load Size One of the most noticeable differences is the capacity of the machines. Domestic washing machines, designed for household use, typically handle smaller loads with a 5–12 kg…

Global electronics and home appliances leader Hisense is bringing cutting-edge technology to households this Black Friday with its “Unlock for Black Friday” campaign. The initiative showcases an array of smart, AI-driven products designed to revolutionise daily living, from air conditioners to refrigerators. Smarter Climate Control Hisense’s Energy Pro X air conditioner leads the lineup, equipped with advanced AI Smart Eye and TMS Control System technologies. These features intelligently detect the user’s position, automatically adjusting temperature, humidity, airflow, and speed for tailored comfort. The appliance also boasts the HI-NANO sterilisation feature, which eliminates airborne germs and bacteria by releasing ion groups.…

mall and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the West Midlands have already secured £2.5m in investment through a regional programme designed to boost growth. Organisers now aim to help businesses access an additional £24m as the region’s largest funding summit takes place in Birmingham on 20 November. The West Midlands Business Funding Summit will bring together financial institutions, investors, and advisers at STEAMhouse, a centre for business and innovation, to demystify funding and help businesses capitalise on growth opportunities. Tackling the Challenges of SME Finance The summit is hosted by Oxford Innovation Advice, which runs the Business Growth West Midlands Investment…

Entrepreneurs and small businesses in Tregaron, west Wales, are celebrating a surge in activity and collaboration as they transform the local economy with support from targeted initiatives. Backed by Ceredigion’s Local Business Support and Smart Busnes projects, delivered via the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the efforts aim to provide guidance and funding to help small enterprises thrive. The bustling market town has become a hub of innovation, with traders accessing expert advice, interactive training, and financial assistance to grow their ventures. Businesses such as Halen a Pupur café, Y Talbot Inn, Gwen’s Cake Shop, and Welsh Homestead Smokery have…

Bristol-based strategic communications agency AMBITIOUS has unveiled The Thoughtful Leadership Podcast, a new series aimed at addressing the complexities of modern leadership. The podcast seeks to inspire leaders from all sectors by exploring the evolving role of leadership in tackling challenges such as balancing profit with purpose, fostering inclusivity, and addressing societal issues. Introducing Thoughtful Leadership The podcast centres on the concept of Thoughtful Leadership—a leadership style grounded in intentionality, empathy, and ethical decision-making. By prioritising reflection and collaboration, this approach emphasises the impact of leadership choices on employees, organisations, and broader society. Deputy Managing Director of AMBITIOUS, Laura Lear,…

The Get A-Head Charitable Trust, a Midlands-founded charity supporting people across the UK with head and neck cancer, has appointed businessman Robert Spittle as its newest trustee. Spittle, managing director of Guest Motor Group, brings a wealth of professional expertise and a personal connection to the charity as it marks its 30th anniversary. A Personal and Professional Commitment Spittle’s relationship with the trust spans decades. His stepmother, Val Spittle, served as the charity’s first administrator, and the organisation provided vital support to his family when his father was diagnosed with cancer in 2005. For the past 20 years, Spittle has…

Recent figures from the Netherlands Statistical Office (CBS) reveal that the Netherlands attracted 21,500 highly skilled migrants (HSM) in 2023, reaffirming its position as a leading destination for international talent. This influx underscores the country’s reliance on global expertise to address skill shortages and boost workforce diversity. The Dutch government actively recruits skilled professionals through its Highly Skilled Migrant program, which continues to draw talent from countries such as India, South Africa, and China. However, tightened regulations have presented new challenges for employers and applicants alike. According to the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, HSM admissions decreased by…

Four tech scale-up companies have been announced as winners of the prestigious Unicorn Kingdom Pathfinder Awards (UKPA), the UK government’s largest global competition for emerging technology businesses. The awards, hosted by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), celebrate innovation in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security, connected and automated mobility, and digital trade solutions. The winners, revealed during a ceremony at LinkedIn’s headquarters in London, include: These businesses will receive a bespoke growth programme, offering support from industry experts, DBT specialists, and access to the Global Entrepreneur Programme to expand their UK operations. The winners will also…