Business Manchester

Everything Manchester businesses need to know following the Budget

News Desk

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28/11/2025

Everything Manchester businesses need to know following the Budget

A Stockport insolvency expert has outlined what businesses need to know in the wake of this week’s Budget.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves finally delivered her much-anticipated financial statement on Wednesday after months of speculation – and it’s brought a mixed picture for those across the region.

Insolvency practitioner Molly Monks, founder of Bramhall-based Parker Walsh, has supported hundreds of businesses in times of financial distress.

And she’s shared her advice on what business owners should be aware of so they can efficiently reassess their strategies.

Capital Gains Tax

One significant shift relates to Capital Gains Tax relief for Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) – historically one of the most tax-efficient ways to sell or implement succession plans.

Mrs Monks said: “For business owners planning succession or looking at disposal routes, this move narrows one of the most tax-efficient exit mechanisms.

“It suggests the government is increasingly willing to revisit long-standing CGT reliefs, and that inevitably prompts directors to reassess their timelines.”

Combined with the planned rise in Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) from 10% to 14% in April 2026, owners may now consider accelerating restructuring or Members’ Voluntary Liquidations to maximise current reliefs.

Business rates

The chancellor also announced major reforms to business rates – a move positioned as a boost for high-street operators and frontline sectors grappling with cost pressures.

Mrs Monks said: “High business rates are one of the main concerns for SME owners, so this announcement will be welcome news – but for those with properties above the £500,000 limit the policy could see them struggle to pay the bills.”

Smaller high-street businesses may feel genuine support, but larger premises could face cost increases.

Minimum wage increases

The Budget confirmed a rise in the National Living Wage, which is set to increase staffing costs across labour-intensive sectors such as retail, hospitality, care and logistics.

“For small businesses already under pressure from higher energy and borrowing costs, this may require rethinking pricing, staffing models, and productivity strategies to protect margins,” said Mrs Monks.

Uncertain future tax policies

Reeves’ selective tightening of reliefs – especially around business disposals – has created a sense of uncertainty about what may come next.

“Businesses may hold off long-term investment until there is clarity on future CGT policy, potential corporate tax adjustments, and further changes to reliefs,” Mrs Monks explained. “This could impact expansion, dealmaking and long-term planning.

“If you rely heavily on investors, you might need to look at other streams of revenue.”

Frozen tax thresholds

Choosing to freeze tax and National Insurance thresholds for three years means more employees will be pushed into paying income tax as wages increase.

Mrs Monks said: “Employers will feel increased payroll pressure. Employers will feel they are taking home less and this can cause complications with recruitment and retention, which can cost businesses.”

Kubicle Highlights Serious Global Shortfall in AI Readiness Among Businesses

News Desk

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28/11/2025

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Kubicle Highlights Serious Global Shortfall in AI Readiness Among Businesses

Kubicle, a world-leading provider of B2B training in data, tech and AI, has warned businesses globally that urgent upskilling is required to keep pace with the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence. According to Kubicle, many teams still lack basic digital competencies, with difficulties evident even in routine tools like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

The warning accompanies Kubicle’s new research on organisational AI and data readiness, which reveals substantial capability gaps at a time when competition for digitally skilled employees is reaching record levels. Below, we explore the AI deficiencies Kubicle has identified and the main drivers behind these challenges.

The International Race for AI and Data Proficiency

Through their research of Google search interest in data and AI literacy related terms like ‘chatgpt training’, ‘ai courses’ and ‘how to improve data literacy’ across the western countries with the highest English-speaking populations, and comparing the results to each country’s population, Kubicle can reveal that the most upskill-eager country is…

Rank | Country | Score 1 | Ireland | 1.14 2 | Australia | 0.91 3 | United Kingdom | 0.78 4 | United States | 0.29 5 | Netherlands | 0.28 6 | Germany | 0.23 7 | Canada | 0.17 8 | Spain | 0.11 9 | Sweden | 0.10 10 | France | 0.09

When asked about the results, Mark Henderson, Chief Executive Officer of Kubicle, said: “The findings highlight where the global workforce is most actively future proofing their skills. Ireland’s leading position reflects a national focus on digital readiness, while countries like Australia, the UK and the US continue to drive enterprise adoption of AI and analytics.”

What IT Skills are Learners Looking to Excel In?

By assessing subject completion data across their broad range of courses, Kubicle can reveal that the following subjects have been the most in demand between 2020-2025:

When asked about their skills shortage data, Mark said: “Our own data shows that many organisations are lacking essential digital competencies, particularly across core tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Word. These are not niche skills; they form the foundation of effective digital communication and analysis. At the same time, we’re seeing a notable surge in demand for training in emerging areas like AI Fundamentals, signalling that businesses are actively seeking to build future-ready capabilities. Closing the gap in baseline IT proficiency must be a priority if organisations are to fully capitalise on new technologies and maintain competitive advantage.”

Elsewhere, by comparing their Fastest Growing Subjects (2020–2022 vs 2023–2025), Kubicle can reveal:

A 960% growth in the uptake of AI Fundamentals.
A 124% growth in Data Literacy.
A 27% uptake in their Power BI subject, Microsoft’s interactive data visualisation software.

Mark says that these results further back up the international eagerness for AI and data learning.

How the Data Was Gathered

Kubicle gathered information for this insightful release by assessing their own course subject completions and the World Population Review. Kubicle also researched which English-speaking countries ranked highest for IT subject interest, including Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, while the terms included ‘excel courses’, ‘chatgpt training’ and ‘how to improve data literacy’.

J&K Ross Enhances Workplace Safety Portfolio with New Cleaning and Hygiene Product Line

Business

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28/11/2025

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J&K Ross Enhances Workplace Safety Portfolio with New Cleaning and Hygiene Product Line

J&K Ross, based in Warrington and known for its specialist PPE and workwear solutions, has broadened its product portfolio with the introduction of a dedicated Cleaning and Hygiene range. This new addition complements its core PPE offering, giving customers access to a full suite of workplace protection solutions.

The decision to expand reflects the firm’s belief that safety is shaped not only by what employees wear but also by the environment in which they work. Maintaining clean, hygienic and well-managed spaces is essential for supporting health, confidence and performance across busy operational settings.

The new range is divided into four key areas: paper, cleaning, wipes and skincare. Paper includes workplace staples such as hand towels, hygiene roll and blue roll. Cleaning features essential products like floor and surface cleaners, bleaches, premium washing-up liquids and degreasers. Wipes covers industrial, disinfectant and hand wipes for fast and efficient cleaning across tools, machinery and shared workstations. Skincare includes hand cleaning solutions, protective skin products and sun protection.

The range features reputable brands including Espro, Kimberley Clark, Lucart, SC Johnson Professional and Dirteeze, selected for their market-trusted performance and suitability for professional environments.

Launching the new range, Neil Wilcock, Managing Director at J&K Ross, commented: “For over forty years, our focus has been keeping people safe at work. This new range extends that commitment. By bringing cleaning, hygiene and PPE together under one supplier, we’re helping organisations simplify ordering, streamline deliveries and maintain high standards of safety across every part of their workplace.”

The Cleaning and Hygiene line strengthens J&K Ross’s extensive PPE and workwear collection, which covers safety boots, high-vis clothing, gloves, goggles, trousers, vests and specialist maternity wear.

Customers can expect personalised service, expert advice and fast nationwide delivery, provided by a knowledgeable team experienced in the demands of real working environments.

Organisations looking to access the new range or request a introductory discount can contact J&K Ross on 01925 645645 or visit the website.

Rio Kavanagh Introduces ‘The Commodity Strategist,’ A Practical Manual for Thriving in Today’s Commodity-Driven Economy

Finance

News Desk

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28/11/2025

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Rio Kavanagh Introduces ‘The Commodity Strategist,’ A Practical Manual for Thriving in Today’s Commodity-Driven Economy

British entrepreneur and financial commentator Rio Kavanagh has released The Commodity Strategist, a succinct guide that equips readers with strategic insight into the increasingly important world of commodity markets.

Against the backdrop of higher inflation and geopolitical volatility, the book invites readers to rethink traditional investment habits and consider the long-term advantages of strategies rooted in real, essential resources.

“Most people are playing the wrong game,” said Rio Kavanagh. “They’re gambling on hype instead of positioning themselves in markets with real, tangible value. Commodities are the backbone of the global economy and understanding them is the difference between reacting to chaos and profiting from it.”

Kavanagh outlines the frameworks used by leading commodity experts, including cycle analysis, market imbalance identification, asymmetric positioning, and disciplined action when conditions shift.

Unlike generic financial motivation books, The Commodity Strategist offers direct, applicable advice aimed at entrepreneurs, self-directed investors and ambitious individuals looking for reliable, strategic methods rather than hype-driven narratives.

Drawing from both competitive sport and market strategy, Kavanagh explains how the mindset required for athletic performance under pressure translates naturally into the fast-paced reality of financial decision-making, underscoring discipline and independence.

“We’re entering a new age where average thinking is punished,” Kavanagh added. “This book exists to create people who think sharper, move faster, and operate with real strategy — not hope.”

The book targets readers who are serious about building wealth grounded in discipline and strategy, those who want to avoid speculation, individuals focused on leverage and long-term thinking, and anyone who sees uncertainty as a strategic advantage.

Rio Kavanagh — The Commodity Strategist is now available through major bookstores and online retailers.

New Survey Reveals Britain is a Nation of Nosey Neighbours

Property

News Desk

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27/11/2025

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New Survey Reveals Britain is a Nation of Nosey Neighbours

A new survey by Jitty has revealed that more than a quarter of Brits (28%) have admitted that they browse property sites just to see inside their neighbours’ homes, confirming the UK’s favourite guilty pleasure is having a good old nose around other people’s houses.

Regionally, the nation’s biggest nosey neighbours are found in the North East and South West (both 36%), followed closely by the South East (35%).

Other hotspots for neighbourly snooping include the East of England (31%), Yorkshire and the Humber (30%) and Wales (29%). London (24%) and the West Midlands (24%) sit nearer the bottom of the list, while Northern Ireland (19%) is the least nosey region of all.

The poll* of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by Jitty, the UK’s AI-driven property portal, shows that property browsing has become a major national pastime, with people using it not just to find homes, but for entertainment, curiosity and escapism. While 25 percent say they browse homes ‘purely out of nosiness’, 27 percent do it to figure out what they might one day be able to afford, even if they have no plans to move.

This “home browsing culture” goes well beyond checking prices. Brits say the first things they notice in a listing are the interior styling (41%), the character of the building (38%), and the layout (33%) – indicating people are treating the property market more like Pinterest than a postcode search.

Three in ten people (30%) regularly share property links with friends and family on WhatsApp, and 25 percent enjoy receiving surprise listings from others, turning property browsing into a shared form of entertainment. Many say the activity makes them feel excited (31%), inspired (23%) or motivated (20%), with far fewer associating it with stress or pressure.

But the research also highlights a deep frustration with the limitations of traditional property websites. Over a third of Brits (35%) say they wish searching for homes felt more intuitive, while 26% say they routinely end up looking at properties far outside their intended criteria – a sign that static filters and clunky interfaces haven’t kept pace with how people actually browse.

Graham Paterson, CEO and co-founder of Jitty, said: “The fact that so many people are peeking inside their neighbours’ homes tells you everything you need to know about how Britain feels about property – it fascinates us, it entertains us, and it connects us. But it also shows why traditional search tools don’t cut it anymore. People don’t think in filters; they think in feelings, styles and lifestyles. AI finally bridges that gap by letting you describe exactly what you imagine – and instantly seeing homes that match. That’s the future people clearly want.”

The findings come as Jitty continues its rapid growth, on track to exceed half a million monthly property searches. Its AI-powered natural-language search now accounts for the majority of user interactions, with 75% of people preferring it over traditional filtering.

Backed by REA Group and Gradient Ventures (Google’s AI fund), Jitty offers an AI-powered, image-first way to browse the property market, allowing users to search naturally, visually and intuitively. As the UK’s property browsing habit accelerates, Jitty is leading a new era of smarter, more conversational discovery.

For more information, visit www.jitty.com.

Bolton’s business community gathers for official launch of The Wellsprings

Helen Greaney

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26/11/2025

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Bolton’s business community gathers for official launch of The Wellsprings

Bolton’s entrepreneurs, business leaders, councillors and more, recently came together to celebrate the official launch of The Wellsprings, the town’s new office, meeting and co-working innovation space.

Dignitaries including the Bolton mayor and leader of Bolton council were invited to tour the centre to learn more about the huge range of benefits it offers to its users and the wider region.

The Wellsprings is based in the heart of the town centre and boasts a wealth of high-quality features, including a welcoming business lounge, fully-kitted meeting rooms and a relaxing wellness space.

Alongside the centre manager and team who will manage the day-to-day running of the centre, innovation director Ian Balderson will provide strategic growth and innovation support to businesses who use the space. Businesses and members will also benefit from a calendar of networking events and workshops.

The centre aims to build a collective of creative, collaborative and technology-driven enterprises, and is part of Bolton Council’s wider strategy to drive investment, encourage innovation and create more quality jobs.

Oxford Innovation Space will manage The Wellsprings on behalf of Bolton Council. Users of The Wellsprings will further benefit from The Wire – a new digital platform that aims to connect people from across Oxford Innovation Space’s national network of ambitious businesses and entrepreneurs.

Cllr Nick peel, leader of Bolton Council, said: “It was a pleasure to be part of the launch event at The Wellsprings, and to welcome our business community into this wonderful new space. The centre reflects Bolton Council’s ongoing commitment to investing in the borough and creating first-class spaces where businesses and residents can thrive.”

Elaine McKechnie, commercial director of Oxford Innovation Space, which manages The Wellsprings, said: “We’re immensely proud to be partnering with Bolton Council, whose bold vision has brought to life a truly inspiring innovation space for the town’s businesses and entrepreneurs. Walking through the centre today fills me with excitement – it’s clear the team will drive it forward and make it the key destination for business in Bolton.

“Spaces like this are gaining momentum across the UK. Innovation hubs are about far more than bricks and square footage – they’re about the communities that grow within them, the collaboration between businesses, the support networks we build, and the expertise we share. That’s what makes the difference, and today, it genuinely feels like Bolton’s business community has found its home.”

The Wellsprings renovation was backed by £6.9m from the Towns Fund with a further £1.4m from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It was part of wider ongoing regeneration work to make Bolton town centre the ideal place to live, work, study, visit and invest.

Fablr named finalists at Manchester Culture Awards

Helen Greaney

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26/11/2025

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Fablr named finalists at Manchester Culture Awards

Fablr and The Modernist Society have been named finalists at the Manchester Culture Awards 2025 – an achievement in its own right – in the ‘Making it Happen – Best Business Partnership’ category.

This is in recognition of their collaboration on The Modernist App, a free location-based guide opening up modernist architecture to audiences across the UK.

Presented at the annual ceremony hosted by Reece Williams and DJ Paulette, this achievement places the partnership amongst Manchester’s leading cultural innovators.

While Fablr and The Modernist Society finished just behind Skills Bootcamp, Reform Radio & Partners, very deserved winners on the night, the nomination highlights how digital tools are reshaping cultural access – breaking down barriers, sparking curiosity and offering innovative new ways for people to explore and learn about places across the UK.

Developed using Fablr’s Pinpoint framework and supported by Greater Manchester Combined Authority funding, The Modernist App offers curated tours, layered histories and editorial features built to make architecture more interactive and accessible. Since launch, the app has continued to grow, with new cities and neighbourhood trails planned.

Philip Bennison, founder at Fablr, said: “Being named finalists among such an impressive field is a huge honour. The Modernist App reflects what we believe the future of cultural engagement looks like – free, accessible and woven into everyday life.

“While we congratulate this year’s winners, we’re also incredibly proud of what this partnership represents for Manchester’s digital and cultural communities. We’re excited to see what comes next.”

Jack Hale, co-founder at The Modernist Society, said: “We’re proud to stand alongside Fablr as finalists for a project that helps people explore and appreciate architecture in a fresh, accessible way.

“The Modernist App has opened up new opportunities for people to discover stories hidden in plain sight, and this recognition shows just how important digital platforms are becoming in helping the public engage with heritage and culture.”

The Manchester Culture Awards – now a key fixture in the city’s cultural calendar – celebrate the partnerships and organisations driving Manchester’s creative identity forward. This year’s finalists underscore how digital innovation continues to expand cultural access not only across the city, but nationwide.

Industry observers note that tools like The Modernist App are signalling the next chapter for UK cultural engagement: tech-enabled, AR-focussed, free at the point of use, and designed to open up the UKs world-class culture to anyone with a smartphone. As galleries, museums and cultural organisations explore new ways to reach audiences, Fablr’s work points to a future where digital platforms become central to how we experience our surroundings.

Speaking on how the heritage and culture industry is increasing engagement with audiences through tech, Philip Bennison, Founder at Fablr, continues: “by next year’s awards, we predict that the industry will embrace location-based experiences like ours.

“We foresee AI tour guides guiding people around cities, VR and AR enhancing experiences, and all sorts of new and exciting collaborations between the innovative creative sector and tech companies like Fablr. Apps like this one just let you reach much broader audiences, but they also allow you to measure impact and drive further growth off the back of that.”

Money Wellness Launches New Tool Highlighting the Hidden Impact of Christmas Debt

News Desk

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26/11/2025

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Money Wellness Launches New Tool Highlighting the Hidden Impact of Christmas Debt

Money Wellness has unveiled a free Christmas Debt Calculator that shows how long festive borrowing might take to repay and how much interest could accumulate over time.

The calculator – available at www.moneywellness.com/christmas-debt-calculator – is designed for quick use. Users simply enter their Christmas spending and credit card repayment details, and the tool instantly reveals repayment duration, total interest, savings from paying more each month, and a visual progress graph.

Data from Money Wellness suggests borrowing pressures are intensifying. Sixty per cent of customers now have outstanding credit card balances averaging £5,000, compared with 57% and £4,000 last year. The number of people requesting BNPL-related help has risen by 44% over the past year, with October 2025 seeing the highest recorded volume of requests. A further spike is expected in January and February 2026 as Christmas debts surface.

With household bills still squeezing budgets, many families find themselves turning to credit and relying on minimum repayments, which can prolong debt for years.

As an example, a family who places £1,000 of Christmas spending on a credit card at 29.9% APR and pays only the 3% minimum each month could face an 8–10 year repayment period, with interest charges totalling around £700–£1,000.

Sebrina McCullough, External Affairs Director at Money Wellness, said: “Black Friday is nearly here, and lots of people are getting ready to spend on presents, food, travel, and decorations. But with household bills still high, many are being forced to rely on credit cards or Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) to cover festive spending – and some could be paying off this year’s Christmas debt well into the 2030s.

“The problem is the interest, especially if you can only afford minimum repayments.

“Our calculator gives people a clear, personalised picture of how long Christmas spending could take to clear. It’s simple, practical, and designed to help people make informed decisions before the shopping rush begins.

“If anyone is worried about money or struggling with credit cards, BNPL, or other bills, we’re here to help and our support is completely free.”

The Christmas Debt Calculator enables users to total their festive spending, adjust APR and repayments, see a personalised debt timeline, compare interest outcomes, and access free budgeting tips and debt advice.

The free calculator can be accessed at www.moneywellness.com/christmas-debt-calculator.

The 6 best Kettering garages for reliable, worry-free car repairs

Automotive

Helen Greaney

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24/11/2025

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The 6 best Kettering garages for reliable, worry-free car repairs

Looking for reliable, worry-free car repair services in a world of quick fixes and DIYs may seem like finding a needle in a haystack. Today, drivers are more well-informed and have high expectations when it comes to garages and professional vehicle servicing.

However, with modern diagnostics, many reputed garages have upped the ante on delivering reliable, hassle-free car repairs. From quality components and technical expertise to cost transparency and excellent customer service, you can expect the best service for your vehicle.

While all garages offer repairs, these garages stand out from others due to their commitment to industry standards, ethics, and top-notch service, allowing customers to feel the difference. In many ways, this is what separates standard garages from those offering high-quality services.

In this article, we bring you 6 Kettering garages you can count on for reliable, worry-free repairs and professional car servicing.

1. In Town Automotive

In Town Automotive in Kettering is first on this list, and for good reason. As an award-winning garage in Northampton, they’ve been in the business of supplying quality car parts for over 50 years.

Starting in 2006, they expanded their business to offer high-quality car repair services.
In Kettering, they provide the same expert services and hassle-free experience that their customers have come to expect.

In Town Automotive also offers a wide range of car services with flexible ‘fix now, pay later’ options. As a certified MOT test centre for DVSA-class 4 vehicles, they provide courtesy
vehicles, including pick-up and drop-off facilities within ten miles of their branch in Kettering.

Moreover, they’re a female-friendly and pet-friendly garage, a standout feature that customers love about them.

Why choose In Town Automotive Kettering

● Award-winning garage
● Wide range of professional vehicle services

● Free 16-point vehicle and tyre checks
● Modern state-of-the-art vehicle diagnostics
● Flexible payment options
● Easy online booking
● Certified MOT test centre
● Quality service
● Excellent customer care

One customer said: “We are so grateful to the team at In Town Automotive. They have been absolutely amazing through quite a challenging journey with our car (none of which is related to them). They have been honest and helpful from start to finish, going over and beyond to help. Max has been absolutely brilliant with his technical advice, we are really grateful to the engineers who worked tirelessly on the car, and the lovely ladies on reception are always so helpful and welcoming – a big thank you to them all, we would highly recommend you.”

2. Chancery Autos

If you like the tried and tested old-school approach while receiving high-quality professional repairs for your car, Chancery Autos is a good bet. As a family-run business with over 5 decades of experience, they bring experience, expertise and values, which their local community has come to love and rely on.

They offer everything from routine servicing and MOT tests to general repairs and more. Chancery Autos are well reputed and know their craft, offering breakdown and recovery services, accidental repairs and alloy wheel repairs in addition to their regular services.

3. Burton Latimer Car Care

Burton Latimer Car Care offers customers convenience, car services and MOT tests all under one roof with its staff of experienced technicians. They’re a certified MOT test centre for DVSA class 4 and class 7 vehicles and offer customers affordable and fair pricing.

Customers appreciate their honesty, transparency and thorough approach to servicing and repairs, making them a good choice for worry-free car repairs in Kettering.

4. Chaplin’s Mot Testing and Service Centre

Family-run garages are well-known for the value and experience they bring to car services and repair. Chaplin’s MOT testing and service centre is the epitome of this and has been providing services to its local Kettering community for over 30 years.

They come highly recommended for their quality service and discounted MOT schemes for their esteemed customers. They offer competitive prices and believe in full transparency, making them reliable and trustworthy.

5. Hitech Autoservices

Hitech Autoservices is an RAC-approved garage that offers high-quality repair services for vehicles of all makes and models. With over 30 years of car service experience, they’re one of the leading garages in Kettering that you can trust for worry-free car repairs.

They offer in-house welding services, MOTs, diagnostics, air-con services, engine maintenance, emission checks and more. Hitech Autoservices provides customers with a comprehensive service package, backed by expertise, quick turnaround times and reputation.

6. IN’n Out Autocentre

IN’n Out autocentre was founded in 2008 as a fast-fit provider offering you convenience that exceeds expectations. Since its inception, they’ve expanded to over 31 autocentres across the country, and customers love their reliable, hassle-free services.

Their USP lies in the OUT2YOU mobile services they have specially designed to cater to electric vehicles for easy maintenance at home or at work. They offer fixed prices, use manufacturer-approved parts and are a Castrol brand partner.

With a 4.7 rating on Trustpilot and a 75% repeat customer rate, you can count
on them for professional car repairs. Choose these trusted Kettering garages for high-quality, reliable service

Reliable, worry-free car repairs are more than just about technical expertise. It’s also about solid values and commitment to transparency and fair pricing, while providing customers with the highest quality service. Our recommendations of the top Kettering garages live up to these expectations and can give you peace of mind.

What to buy her for Christmas 2025

Retail

Helen Greaney

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21/11/2025

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Stuck on what to get the lovely women in your life this Christmas?

From luxurious beauty rituals to stylish home must-haves, our curated 2025 gift guide is packed with thoughtful, on-trend presents she’ll truly love – and actually use all year round.
So, if you’re sick of buying socks, read on…

Stylish & sustainable: The perfect pan set for foodie gifts

Give the gift of healthy, stylish cooking with the GreenPan Padova Reserve 2-Piece Frying Pan Set. Made from 100% recycled aluminium, these pans feature GreenPan’s PFAS-free Thermolon™ ceramic non-stick coating with ScratchGuard™ for incredible durability and effortless performance.

The thick forged base ensures fast, even heating on all stovetops, including induction, while elegant gold-tone stainless-steel handles add a touch of luxury. Oven-safe up to 220°C and available in Oxford Blue, Smokey Blue, and Cream, this beautifully crafted set makes the perfect Christmas gift for any foodie who loves cooking in style.

Available: £125, from GreenPan

Glow-giving luxury: The Ultimate Beauty Ritual Set by Love Mushrooms

This Christmas, she’ll be thrilled to unwrap Love Mushrooms’ newly launched Ultimate Beauty Ritual Set. Inspired by the regenerative intelligence of mushrooms, this five-step skincare ritual is thoughtfully crafted to hydrate, soothe, and brighten the skin, leaving complexions glowing and ready to shine every day of the year.

Each product is powered by Tremella, Reishi, and White Truffle Extract, combined with clinically backed peptides, nourishing botanicals, and skin-supporting ferments. This is skincare with depth – designed to hydrate, soothe, renew and empower.

Presented in a festive box, this collection is a celebration of radiance, rituals and results. Thoughtful, vegan and beautifully crafted, it’s a gift truly worth giving this Christmas.

Available: £89, from lovemushrooms

For the thrill-seeker: A share in a racehorse

Give her the ultimate racing thrill with Racingclub.com – where she can become a racehorse owner for as little as £25. From her first welcome pack to exciting race-day updates, she’ll follow her horse’s journey with insider access to training news, progress reports, and even a share of any prize money.

Owners can also apply for exclusive race-day badges, enjoy VIP hospitality at top venues like Newbury Racecourse, meet other shareholders, and enter ballots for behind-the-scenes stable visits.

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Each share includes full syndicate benefits, with Racingclub.com gift cards and merchandise available too.

Available: From £25, at Racingclub.com

If she loves to sparkle: Mix-and-match earrings from Matchbox

Matchbox is the UK’s largest earring-only earring boutique, where you can mix and match from more than 600 styles.

MATCHBOXJewellery.com SIENNA 18

Great for sensitive ears, you can shop for singles or pairs. We love these sterling silver stars, complete with cubic zirconia stones. Perfect for any occasion, the wearer is sure to shine!

Available: From £10 at Matchbox

Indulge in luxurious Dubai chocolate truffles

You’ve heard all the hype, now buy them for a treat! A truly unforgettable experience, the luxurious Dubai Chocolate Knafeh Truffle is a fusion of rich tradition and modern indulgence.

FARHI.CO .UKDubai Chocolate Truffles 20 1

Encased in velvety chocolate, each truffle brings together the delicate flavours of traditional
pistachio Knafeh, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert. She’ll love the melt-in-your-mouth centre inspired by the sweet, aromatic essence of Knafeh, balanced with the nutty, slightly salty taste of roasted pistachios, all wrapped in a smooth chocolate shell.

Available: £20 at Farhi

Her new everyday essential: The totally leakproof BrüMate tumbler

A new Era of straw tumbler is here. Totally leakproof, and made for stress free sips on the
go! It has BrüMate’s fully leakproof Ü-Turn™ lid that works for both cold and carbonated
beverages; ColdKey™ metal straw for minimising the amount of plastic sitting in the water
and BevGuard™ technology to keep ice for 24+ hours.

BRUMATE 36.95 Era Straw Tumbler 30oz Kiwi www.brumate.co .uk

A cup-holder friendly base allows her to enjoy her favourite beverage, free of leaks and spills throughout her day.

Available: From 30oz / £36.95, at BrüMate