3.9 C
Manchester
Friday, December 5, 2025
Home Blog

Charge-M8 and Nemiah Partner to Develop cosmOS BMS Integration for AI-Enhanced EV Infrastructure Management

0

Charge-M8 (https://charge-m8.com) has entered into a strategic collaboration with Nemiah (https://nemiah.uk) to create a bespoke adaptation of the cosmOS platform (https://cosmos.energy) for Charge-M8 clients across the UK, Europe, North America and Australasia.

The customised Smart Building Operating System will incorporate Charge-M8’s multi-award-nominated Libra Dynamic Load Balancer (https://charge-m8.com/products-libra/), allowing EV load management to integrate efficiently with broader building management infrastructure.

This partnership brings together Charge-M8’s advanced capability in EV smart-charging hardware and OCPP-based network deployment, alongside Nemiah’s expertise in real-time energy monitoring and IoT-driven building intelligence.

The resulting joint platform will facilitate a direct connection between EV charging demand, site-wide energy consumption and operational decision-making supported by real-time insights.

Charge-M8’s Libra DLB will remain the primary load-management device. By integrating cosmOS with the Libra system, Charge-M8 will extend EV optimisation into a comprehensive smart-building environment. cosmOS, recently awarded the GM LINK innovation programme title, provides live data on energy usage, sustainability metrics and building performance, using IoT connectivity to capture detailed information across systems.

This integration will establish EV charging as part of a unified energy-operations ecosystem, giving organisations the ability to assess and manage assets using AI, automation, fault detection and predictive optimisation.

Deployment will begin across Charge-M8’s commercial operating regions including the UK, Europe, North America and Australasia. The company already delivers solutions for well-known automotive manufacturers and enterprise brands including Rolls-Royce, Volkswagen Group, Audi, BYD and JLR.

Julian Smith, Founder and Managing Director at Charge-M8, said: “Integrating Libra with cosmOS combines intelligent load balancing and real-time building insights. Clients get a clearer view of site operations and the tools to maximise efficiency, resilience, and carbon reduction.”

Steven Tomlinson, CEO of Nemiah, added: “cosmOS is one of the most forward-thinking building-management platforms in the UK. Working with Charge-M8 lets us extend this capability into EV-infrastructure management and opens opportunities to export our cosmOS solution which is extremely exciting for the Nemiah team. It brings buildings and charging systems together within one intelligent operating system.”

About Charge-M8

Charge-M8 is a leading supplier of advanced electric vehicle charging solutions, specialising in cutting-edge charging technology and integrated payment systems, dedicated to accelerating EV adoption across the United Kingdom.
Contact: [email protected] | 0333 242 3328 | charge-m8.com

About Nemiah

Nemiah delivers solutions across commercial, industrial, education, and public-sector environments. Nemiah focuses on sustainability, analytics, and AI-driven automation, forecasting and optimisation.

Contact: [email protected] | 01942 914433 | https://cosmos.energy/

Evostock.com reviews practical tips for trading index CFDs successfully

0

In this article, Evostock.com reviews practical tips for trading index CFDs successfully. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) provide a unique opportunity for traders to speculate on the price movements of various financial assets, including stock indices. 

Index CFDs are becoming increasingly popular among traders around the world, including LATAM due to their flexibility, the ability to profit from both rising and falling markets, and the potential to access a range of global markets. 

This article highlights the key factors that traders need to consider in order to trade index CFDs successfully.

Evostock.com Reviews: What Are Index CFDs and Why Are They Popular?

Evostock.com reviews the basics of index CFDs, which are financial instruments that allow traders to speculate on the performance of a stock index without actually owning the underlying stocks. 

An index typically represents a basket of stocks from a particular sector, country, or region, such as the S&P 500 in the United States or the FTSE 100 in the United Kingdom. By trading index CFDs, traders can gain exposure to the performance of an entire market without needing to buy and sell individual stocks.

Evostock.com emphasizes that the popularity of index CFDs lies in their ability to provide a broad exposure to the market. With just one contract, traders can speculate on the performance of multiple stocks, allowing for better diversification and a more balanced portfolio. 

This makes index CFDs an appealing option for traders who want to take advantage of market trends without the complexity of managing multiple individual stock positions.

Evostock.com Reviews: Research and Analysis Are Key to Success

Evostock.com suggests that successful index CFD trading starts with solid research and analysis. Before entering a position, traders need to understand the broader market conditions and the factors influencing the performance of the specific index they are trading. 

This includes studying macroeconomic indicators, such as GDP growth, unemployment rates, and inflation, as well as the political and social factors that can affect market sentiment.

Evostock.com reviews that many successful traders rely on both fundamental analysis and technical analysis when trading indices CFDs. Fundamental analysis focuses on understanding the economic conditions that could impact the stock index, while technical analysis uses historical price data and chart patterns to identify potential entry and exit points. 

By combining these two types of analysis, traders can make more informed decisions and increase their chances of success in the markets.

Evostock.com Reviews: Leverage and Risk Management in CFD Trading

Evostock.com emphasizes the importance of understanding leverage and risk management when trading index CFDs. Leverage allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller capital investment, potentially increasing their profits. 

However, while leverage can amplify gains, it also magnifies losses. This is why effective risk management is crucial to successful CFD trading.

Evostock.com reviews that traders should always use stop-loss orders to limit potential losses. By setting a stop-loss order, traders can automatically close their positions if the market moves against them, preventing significant losses.

Additionally, traders should never risk more than a small percentage of their capital on any single trade. This helps to protect their capital and ensure that they can continue trading even if some positions do not perform as expected.

Evostock.com Reviews: Timing and Market Trends

Evostock.com suggests that timing is crucial when trading indices CFDs. Successful traders often watch for key market trends and take positions that align with the broader market direction. 

Indices tend to move in line with the overall economic and market conditions, so it is important to stay informed about any major announcements or developments that could influence the market.

Evostock.com reviews that traders should also pay attention to market hours and volatility. Different stock indices have different trading hours, and market volatility can vary depending on factors such as economic reports or geopolitical events.

By understanding when the market is likely to be most active, traders can capitalize on volatility and maximize their potential for profit.

Evostock.com Reviews: Diversifying with Indices CFDs

Evostock.com reviews how index CFDs offer an opportunity for traders to diversify their portfolios. Diversification is a key strategy to reduce risk and enhance returns, and index CFDs allow traders to gain exposure to multiple sectors and markets at once. 

For example, by trading a broad market index like the S&P 500, traders can gain exposure to a range of industries, from technology to healthcare, without needing to select individual stocks.

Evostock.com suggests that traders should consider diversifying their CFD trading strategy by trading multiple indices from different regions or sectors. This helps spread risk and reduces the impact of any one market or sector performing poorly. 

A well-diversified portfolio can lead to more stable returns and reduce the likelihood of large losses.

Evostock.com Reviews: Stay Updated with Market News

Evostock.com emphasizes that staying informed about global events is critical when trading index CFDs. Since indices are composed of a basket of stocks, the performance of the index is heavily influenced by news and events that affect the underlying stocks. 

Economic reports, corporate earnings announcements, and geopolitical events can all have a significant impact on the performance of stock indices.

Evostock.com suggests that traders should make it a habit to follow financial news, economic calendars, and relevant market reports. By staying updated, traders can react quickly to market changes and adjust their positions accordingly. 

Additionally, staying informed about global events can help traders anticipate potential market movements, allowing them to take advantage of potential profitable opportunities.

Conclusion

Evostock.com reviews the key strategies for trading index CFDs successfully, including the importance of research, understanding leverage, managing risk, timing trades, diversifying portfolios, and staying updated with market news. By following these practical tips, traders can increase their chances of success when trading index CFDs. 

While CFD trading offers many opportunities, it is crucial to approach it with a sound strategy, risk management techniques, and a thorough understanding of the markets.

About Evostock.com

Evostock.com provides traders with a secure and accessible platform for trading, offering features like leverage, risk management tools, and access to global markets. Evostock Ltd, operating under the regulatory oversight of the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius, holds license number GB21027075. 

The platform offers CFD trading across a range of asset classes, including stocks, indices, commodities, currencies and cryptocurrencies. With its focus on enabling traders to navigate the complexities of index CFD trading, Evostock.com strives to provide the tools and resources necessary for successful trading.

Market10.net Review 2025 – Scam or a Trusted CFD Broker?

0

Market10.net is a leading platform for CFD (Contract for Difference) trading, offering a range of features designed to enhance the trading experience for users around the world. 

In this Market10.net review, we will dive deep into the platform’s offerings, including its tools, account types, and the way it operates. 

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, understanding how this platform works and the opportunities it presents is essential before diving into the world of CFD trading.

Market10.net Review: What Does Market10.net Offer?

Market10.net specializes in CFD trading, which allows traders to speculate on the price movements of various financial assets without owning the underlying asset..

The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including forex, cryptos, commodities, indices, and stocks. Traders can engage with the market by choosing assets they wish to trade and predicting whether the price will go up or down. 

CFDs provide flexibility and leverage, allowing traders to amplify their exposure with a relatively smaller initial investment. However, this also increases the potential for significant losses, as losses are magnified just like profits.

Market10.net Review: How Does Market10.net Operate?

Market10.net operates by offering traders the opportunity to trade CFDs on a variety of instruments. To begin trading, users must first sign up and create an account. The platform ensures a user-friendly experience with an intuitive interface designed for both new and experienced traders.

After registration, traders can access their trading dashboard, where they can monitor their investments, check live price feeds, and execute trades. The platform is built with a focus on real-time market updates, which ensures that traders can make informed decisions based on the latest market data.

The trading platform is accessible from any device, including desktops and mobile devices, making it easy for traders to manage their investments on the go. Market10.net also ensures security through encryption and other technologies, so traders’ personal information and funds are kept safe.

Market10.net Review: Account Types and Features

Market10.net offers several account types to cater to different traders, depending on their experience and the level of trading they wish to engage in. The platform offers four main account types: Basic, Gold, Platinum, and VIP. 

These accounts differ only in terms of spreads, and the number of free withdrawals. Everything else stays the same including leverage of up to 1:400.

Basic Account

The Basic account is the entry-level account offered by Market10.net. It provides access to all the features suitable for new traders looking to start with lower capital. Traders with a Basic account can expect competitive spreads, although they may be higher than those offered on the higher-tier accounts. 

Additionally, the number of free withdrawals allowed is limited to just 1, which may be a consideration for traders who plan to withdraw funds frequently.

Gold Account

The Gold account is designed for traders who have a bit more experience and are ready to step up their trading game. Gold account holders benefit from tighter spreads and can enjoy more flexibility with a higher number of 1 free withdrawal per month. 

Platinum Account

For those who are more serious about CFD trading, the Platinum account offers additional benefits. 

Traders with a Platinum account enjoy better spreads and three free withdrawals per month. This account type is perfect for traders who are focused on maximizing their trading potential and require more frequent access to their funds.

VIP Account

The VIP account is the highest-tier account available on Market10.net. It is designed for experienced traders who want the tightest spreads and an unlimited number of free withdrawals per month. 

In addition to the different account types, Market10.net also offers educational resources, including webinars and tutorials, to help traders understand the nuances of CFD trading and improve their trading skills.

Market10.net Review: Registration Process

Getting started on Market10.net is a simple process. To begin, traders need to visit the website and click on the “Sign Up” button. The registration form will ask for basic personal details such as name, email address, and phone number, along with a questionnaire. Traders will also need to create a password for their account.

Once the form is completed, the platform will prompt users to verify their identity by submitting necessary documents. This step is part of Market10.net’s Know Your Customer (KYC) process, which helps ensure compliance with financial regulations and protects the platform from fraud.

After completing the verification process, traders can fund their accounts and start trading CFDs. 

Market10.net offers various deposit methods, including bank transfers and credit/debit cards, ensuring that traders from all around the world, including UAE, Singapore and Kuwait, can easily fund their accounts.

Market10.net Review: What Can Traders Invest In?

Market10.net offers a diverse range of assets for CFD trading. Traders can choose from the following categories:

Forex

Forex CFDs are one of the most popular instruments offered by Market10.net. Forex trading involves speculating on the price movement of different currency pairs, such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY. 

Commodities

Market10.net also offers CFDs on a variety of commodities, including gold, silver, oil, and agricultural products. These markets are ideal for traders looking to diversify their portfolios and capitalize on the price movements of physical goods. 

Indices

Traders can also speculate on the price movements of global stock indices, such as the S&P 500, FTSE 100, and NASDAQ. Trading indices allows users to gain exposure to the overall market performance rather than individual stocks. 

This type of CFD trading offers a more diversified approach, which can be beneficial for risk management.

Stocks

Market10.net offers CFDs on individual stocks, allowing traders to speculate on the price movements of shares from major global companies. Stock CFDs provide an opportunity to potentially profit from price fluctuations without actually owning the stocks.

Cryptocurrencies

As digital currencies continue to gain in popularity, Market10.net offers CFD trading on popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major digital assets.

Market10.net Review: Regulation and Trustworthiness

Market10.net is operated by Faraz Financial Services (PTY) Limited, a South African investment firm. The platform is authorized and regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) of South Africa under Financial Service Provider (FSP) license number 45518. This ensures that Market10.net adheres to the regulatory standards set forth by the FSCA, providing a secure environment for traders.

The registered office of Faraz Financial Services (PTY) Limited is located at Unit 9, 31 First Avenue East, Parktown North, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2193. The company’s regulatory status gives traders confidence in the security and legitimacy of their trades and investments on Market10.net.

Market10.net Review: Final Thoughts

In this Market10.net review, we have explored the various features that this CFD trading platform has to offer. 

From its diverse account types and investment options to its company’s secure regulatory status, Market10.net provides a solid foundation for traders looking to explore the world of CFD trading.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, Market10.net offers tools and resources to help you succeed. With its user-friendly interface, diverse asset offerings, and flexible account types, this platform stands out as a reliable choice for those seeking to trade CFDs. 

While it is important to remember that no platform can guarantee profits, Market10.net offers a range of features to help traders manage their investments effectively and make informed trading decisions.

Timberwise Celebrates Training Excellence with Award Win at PCA Ceremony

Property care firm Timberwise is marking a major milestone after receiving a prominent accolade at the annual Property Care Awards.

Founded in Cheshire and now operating nationwide, the company won the Training and Development award following another year of strong growth and investment in its workforce.

The awards, hosted at Old Trafford by the Property Care Association (PCA) for the fifteenth time, recognised standout achievements by PCA members. Nine awards were presented across three main categories.

Timberwise, a longstanding PCA member, was recognised with the Training and Development award, highlighting its dedication to enhancing the skills of its surveyors, technicians and office staff, along with its continued delivery of training to external clients.

The company narrowly missed out on winning a second trophy in the Health and Safety category but did achieve a Highly Commended status for its efforts.

Commenting on the Training and Development award, George Edwards, CEO of Timberwise, said: “Our win for the Training and Development award has once again proven that the PCA recognises our steadfast commitment to developing our team, equipping them with the skills to work to the highest standards on site, in the office, or wherever they might be. But it is not just technical training we want to encourage at Timberwise. Professional development and making sure our team feels encouraged to progress in their own career is just as important.”

Reflecting on the Health and Safety recognition, George Edwards added: “Our nomination for the Property Care Association Health & Safety award is something I am immensely proud of. It is a sure sign that the measures we have in place as a business are working, and that is not something we want to keep to ourselves. This acknowledgement by the PCA affirms that all the work we have done in recent years to make sure Timberwise is not only a leading force when it comes to the quality of our work, but also an industry leader when it comes to health and safety throughout the workplace, is paying off.”

The company’s award success strengthens its drive to expand its CPD programmes and ensure every employee receives structured support in their professional journey. Mr Edwards thanked Timberwise’s Training and Development specialists, its Health and Safety teams and the PCA for their continued encouragement.

Since its establishment in 1968, Timberwise has grown into the UK’s largest family-run property care specialist, known for its expertise in remediation and restoration. Once centred in the North West, the business now provides services throughout Great Britain and entered the Scottish market in 2022.

Timberwise’s continual investment in CPD and strong emphasis on health and safety means colleagues are consistently trained to deliver safe, high-quality work. Both the PCA and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) accredit the company’s CPD seminars.

Christmas Gift Guide from Plates4Less Encourages Shoppers to Choose Presents That Last

Plates4Less has introduced its latest Christmas Gift Guide, aimed at helping consumers pick personalised presents with lasting value. Highlighted within the guide is the rising trend of gifting private number plates, which now represent around 40 per cent of all purchases made through the company.

The guide offers practical advice on choosing the perfect plate, providing tips on style, emotional significance and budget. It also explains how registrations can be bought as gifts even when the recipient’s vehicle information is not yet available, making them ideal for concealed surprises or last-minute choices.

The guide showcases multiple presentation options, such as free printable certificates and premium, ready-to-wrap versions. Shoppers can also include physical plates, and many select the Done For You Transfer Service to guarantee a smooth transition when the recipient decides to assign the registration.

Backed by more than twenty-five thousand five-star reviews, Plates4Less is widely regarded as the UK’s most reliable registration specialist. The new guide is designed to help customers choose presents with personal meaning that can appreciate in value over time.

The Christmas Gift Guide is available now at Plates4Less.co.uk.

Blyth’s Ian Rutherford Releases Powerful Life Story in New Autobiography “Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth”

0

“Everybody has the power to shape their own destiny. I think it just comes down to who wants it the most.”

Entrepreneur and former close-protection specialist Ian Rutherford, originally from Blyth, has unveiled his first book, the autobiography ‘Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth.’

Detailing his rise from modest beginnings on council estates to building a multimillion-pound global operation, the book is a compelling account of resilience, aspiration, and the belief that second chances can change everything.

The self-published memoir, now on sale via Amazon in paperback, captures Ian’s remarkable story of overcoming setbacks through determination and hard work.

His relentless drive eventually led him into high-level personal protection, where he became a trusted bodyguard to major international figures, including former U.S. President George W. Bush.

“I have faced my fair share of challenges over the years but that’s just part of life’s journey,” said Ian. “You take the hits when they come your way. You keep pushing forward and eventually through all the trials you discover your true purpose.”

Ian Rutherford Close Personal Protection Officer and Former U.S. President George W. Bush
Ian Rutherford, Close Personal Protection Officer and Former U.S. President George W. Bush

In his autobiography, Ian shares his incredible rags-to-riches story and the personal stories that shaped who he is today, from his humble beginnings as an unemployed man in a small town to navigating the high-stakes world of international security.

He offers insights into the demands of his profession, the rigorous training he undertook, and the invaluable lessons he learned throughout his career.

Following his time in protective services, Ian successfully established a multimillion-pound security organisation, earning respect in the industry for its innovative practices and exceptional commitment to safety.

His unique path led him to collaborate with a former president of the United States, an experience that not only broadened his horizons but also provided him with invaluable insights into leadership and service on a global scale.

Moreover, his career took him into the critical realm of counter-terrorism training, where he operated in diverse locations around the world.

This multifaceted background underscores the impressive breadth and depth of his professional endeavours, highlighting not only his adaptability but also his commitment to making a significant impact on global security.

Among the deeply personal recollections included in the biography is a moving account of the 1989 Kegworth air disaster.

Rutherford’s then-girlfriend was due to be on the ill-fated flight, which tragically crashed and claimed 47 lives.

The event profoundly shaped his outlook, instilling a deep appreciation for resilience and purpose that would later guide his life and work.

By the mid-1990s, he had established one of London’s largest security companies. Yet, success was not without hardship, including being falsely implicated in a serious firearms case that nearly derailed his life. His eventual vindication became a turning point, reinforcing his determination.

In the years that followed, Ian’s work took him to some of the world’s most high-profile environments.

In 1999, he served as a bodyguard during U.S. President George W. Bush’s four-day visit to Monaco, an experience that included moments of high tension, such as being detained at gunpoint and managing security during critical diplomatic movements.

Bagleys Kings Cross known as Londons rave temple operated between the 1990s and 2000s
Bagley’s, King’s Cross, known as ‘London’s rave temple’, operated between the 1990s and 2000s.

After early stints in London’s security industry, Ian’s career took a defining turn when he joined Walkabout Inns under the mentorship of Michael, the organisation’s chairman.

Recognised for his discipline and leadership, Ian’s company quickly rose through the ranks, eventually managing security operations across the UK for nearly two decades.

At London’s legendary Bagleys Nightclub in King’s Cross, Rutherford oversaw operations at Britain’s largest dance venue, managing crowds of up to 5,000 people over each weekend for nearly a decade. The tragic murder of a team member underscored the dangers and gravity of his profession.

From a young man searching for his place in the world to becoming a globally recognised figure in counter-terrorism and intelligence training, his remarkable journey underscores the power of perseverance and courage.

Starting from modest beginnings, he faced numerous obstacles but refused to give in to adversity. His determination led him to acquire critical skills that would ultimately shape his career.

Later, Ian took on pivotal roles in major international security projects. During the London 2012 Olympic Games, his company delivered counter-terrorism training programmes to thousands of security personnel at the Olympics, and in Rio 2016, he worked with a Brazilian security contractor to deliver operational counter terrorism programmes.

He was widely esteemed for his profound expertise, particularly following his extensive endeavours in the Middle East region.

There, he adeptly collaborated with a diverse array of government agencies, forging partnerships that led to significant advancements in security protocols.

Over the course of his illustrious 30-year career in the security sector, his remarkable contributions have not only transformed his own career but have also positively impacted countless other individual careers, leaving a lasting imprint.

“Everybody has the power to shape their own destiny. I think it just comes down to who wants it the most.” Added Ian.

For a Christmas gift 2025: Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth is available now on Amazon

The perfect gifts for aunty this Christmas

0

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your aunty… the woman who spoils you, sends slightly chaotic birthday texts, and always has snacks in her bag “just in case”? 

You’ve come to the right place. Whether she’s the glam aunty, the cosy-home aunt, or the one who insists she “doesn’t need anything,” this guide is packed with gifts guaranteed to make her smile or proudly say, “Oh, you shouldn’t have!” (even though you absolutely should). 

Here’s some help to find something fabulous!

Something special to drink

If she likes a tipple, how about a Bellamie cherry liqueur? Bellamie® is an elegant apéritif inspired by the French ‘Guignolet’ liqueur and its signature ripe cherry flavour.

BELLAMIE 0081

Enhanced by a touch of cognac, cherry blossom, and the delicate bitterness of cherry and apricot stones, Bellamie reveals layers of bright red fruit, marzipan, and sweet spice – a lower-ABV cherry apéritif that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

For a luxurious spritzer simply add to prosecco and soda water with a sprig of rosemary for the festive feel. 

Available: £34.99 at www.distillersdirect.com

Eco Festive Wellbeing Hamper 

Delight her with a beautiful hamper packed with luxurious wellbeing treats. From pampering biodegradable face masks, to natural aromatherapy candles, delicious fairtrade dark chocolate mini-bars, and luxury plastic-free Christmas tea temples, this extra special gift box allows her to enjoy some well-deserved “me-time.”

pastedImage 1

Available: £29.99 at boostology.co.uk

A Christmas gift for all year round with Racing Club

Give her the special thrill of becoming a racehorse owner with Racing Club! 

For as little as £25, she’ll receive a share in a horse and step into the exciting world of racing. From the moment she opens her  welcome pack, mum will enjoy regular updates on her horse’s training, progress, and race days… and even receive a share of any prize money. 

267

Owners can apply for exclusive race day badges, enjoy luxury hospitality at venues like Newbury, and enter ballots for stable visits to meet trainers, jockeys, and their horse.

Each share includes full syndicate benefits, and Racing Club merchandise or gift cards let her celebrate or choose their own horse to support.

Available: From £25, Racing Club

Mystical, magical…

For some rather different offerings in the perfume world, how about these vegan-friendly scents. If she loves seeking our niche new smells and unleashing new powers, The Society of Alchemists is the place. 

Auryn EDP 2

This luxurious EDP (The Auryn) comes in a black bottle with a velvet-lined luxury box. Scents change while you’re wearing them but generally the vibe was bergamot as a strong top note, interjected with some rose, violet and patchouli with some underlying vanilla tones.

Available: £34.95 from https://thesocietyofalchemists.co.uk/ 

Sustainable surprises

 Handmade in the UK using sustainable soya wax, the Yorkshire Rhubarb scented Candle is vegan, cruelty-free and free from synthetic fragrances. The tin is also recyclable.

image002

 Manufactured using solar power, the Yorkshire rhubarb fragrance emulates the sweet, tangy scent of Yorkshire rhubarb and was created in homage to Bio-D’s Yorkshire roots..

Available: £12.24 at www.biod.co.uk

Retro Radio

The Baby Brighton Retro Style Portable Radio is where timeless design meets modern function. Available in elegant grey or black, this compact piece echoes the sophistication of mid-century style, with smooth curves, chrome detailing, and a minimalist silhouette that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current.

image

Don’t let its vintage charm fool you — behind the classic exterior lies reliable AM/FM analogue tuning, a built-in rechargeable battery for seamless portability, and an auxiliary input for playing her own music with ease. 

Available: £40 at arighibianchi.co.uk

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

0

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

0

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.