Business Manchester

Harley Street clinic launches ‘O Concept™’ for sexual wellness

News Desk

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06/03/2025

Harley Street clinic launches ‘O Concept™’ for sexual wellness

A Harley Street clinic is now offering a ground breaking approach to sexual wellness, designed to enhance intimacy, confidence and overall wellbeing.

TheOConcept.co.uk, founded by Dr Sherif Wakil, boasts a comprehensive suite of treatments and therapies tailored to individual needs, for a broad range of sexual health concerns.

The new approach – recently recognised with a 2024 Global Excellence Award – goes beyond traditional and invasive methods, with a clear focus on holistic wellness and bespoke solutions.

Traditional treatments can alter the hormonal system, affect mood and even require surgery.

But with cutting-edge medical technologies combined with proven therapeutic techniques, Dr Wakil of Dr SW Clinic, says men and women can “experience heightened pleasure”.

Dr Wakil said: “We understand that sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being. Millions of men and women suffer from sexual dysfunction in the UK, deeply affecting their confidence, quality of life, relationships and even their ability to conceive.

“Such an overwhelming and complex issue requires a professional, advanced and carefully-tailored solution, which is exactly what the O Concept offers. It’s designed to provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to reclaim their sexual confidence and experience a more fulfilling intimate life.

“We offer personalised treatment plans, using state-of-the-art technologies including PRP and laser therapy, to stimulate tissue regeneration and enhance sensitivity, as well as integration of therapies to address physical and emotional aspects of sexual health.

“And with expert care provided by our team of medical professionals, clients can be assured of a safe and supportive environment.”

The O Concept addresses a variety of sexual concerns for men and women, including decreased libido, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, difficulty achieving orgasm and painful intercourse.

Specific treatments available include Scrotox (anti-wrinkle treatment for the scrotum), The O-Shot® (Orgasm PRP) and G-Shot® (G-Spot Amplification) as well as labia fillers.

Quick-thinking Bury mum saves van driver’s life

News

Helen Greaney

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05/03/2025

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Quick-thinking Bury mum saves van driver’s life

A quick-thinking Bury mum saved a driver’s life after he ploughed into a tree as he suffered a heart attack at the wheel.

Leanne Richards (39) was walking home after dropping her daughter off at school when she saw a white van had left the road and collided with a tree on Walmersley Road.

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A witness had called an ambulance by the time Leanne arrived but she quickly took control of the situation and, with help from the passenger, dragged 56-year-old logistics driver Mick Symcock out of the front seat.

She than began CPR – training she had only had once when she volunteered at the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair in Manchester.

Leanne, who works as a cleaner, said: “I’d never done CPR before in real life, only on the dummies you get on first aid courses. But there was no time to waste as I was told he’d been unresponsive at the wheel for a few minutes.

“I was just wired with adrenaline but I was chuffed to bits when I found a pulse – and I was really lucky that a retired nurse just happened to walk by and she helped me.

“Everyone should do a CPR course – it’s so important and you never know when you will need to use it. I certainly wasn’t expecting to be saving someone’s life on the school run. Paramedics told me that the intervention saved his life.”

Mick is now making a full recovery, having spent time in intensive care and had stents implanted.

Allison Sadler, who stopped to help, said: “If Leanne hadn’t made the decision to get Mick out of the van, the outcome would have been very different. She had started good CPR already when I came along. As a recently retired nurse I offered help and she gracefully accepted. We worked on Mick as a team until the crew arrived.

“Doing CPR on the cold, muddy grass is quite different to a hospital environment. Leanne had first aid experience and I would encourage everyone to attend a course or watch something online so that they can help if needs be as the moments before a defib are critical.”

Mick’s boss Lee texted Leanne to say: “Without your intervention, I do believe Mick wouldn’t be here now. He’s sat up now in a chair and even started to have a conversation. Things are looking better daily.”

Image: Leanne Richards (right) with her daughter, Molly

Is AI in recruitment smart hiring, or backfiring?

News Desk

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05/03/2025

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Is AI in recruitment smart hiring, or backfiring?

AI is bringing change to recruitment processes around the world, offering unmatched speed, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.

From scanning thousands of applications in seconds to predicting the potential long-term success of candidates, AI holds the promise of revolutionising the recruitment space.

However, is this promise too good to be true?

While AI tools can streamline hiring and potentially reduce unconscious bias, they also introduce a number of difficulties. From ethical concerns and legal implications to potential hidden biases, improper and uninformed use of AI tools puts companies at risk of doing more harm than good.

With regulations tightening, the rules around AI-powered recruitment are beginning to form, and companies need to ensure they’re using these tools responsibly.

With this in mind, how can businesses embrace AI whilst ensuring compliance and minimal risks? What are the best practices for fair and transparent AI governance? And, perhaps the key question: Is AI truly revolutionising recruitment or are we heading toward uncertain times, fraught with legal challenges and unintended consequences?

The power of AI in hiring

In the recruitment space, AI’s popularity has largely been driven by its ability to process large volumes of applications in an exceptionally short amount of time. Traditional hiring often requires hours of manual CV reviewing.

Now, AI tools can scan, rank, and shortlist candidates within seconds. The automation of this initial stage means businesses can dramatically speed up hiring decisions, while reducing the risk of missing out on top talent.

Another improvement AI brings is the refinement of candidate matching. Evolving beyond merely scanning CVs for keywords, AI hiring tools now conduct far deeper analyses to select the candidates most likely to succeed in a role. This level of depth helps businesses find the right person for the right job, rather than someone who happens to use the right buzzwords.

Since AI evaluates and selects candidates based on purportedly objective data rather than gut feeling, many believe it can make hiring fairer, but the reality and truth behind this assumption is far more complex. Businesses must understand how AI systems make decisions, and how they can also be unintentionally influenced.

The pitfalls

Despite its many benefits, AI hiring technology can reinforce some of the biases it aims to eliminate. For example, Amazon reportedly discontinued an AI-driven hiring tool after it was found to unintentionally favour male candidates (Reuters, 2018).

Beyond bias, there are concerns around privacy and transparency, adding to the ethical and legal challenges that need careful consideration. Businesses must educate themselves on these areas in order to stay compliant in a rapidly developing legal landscape.

Governments across the globe are tightening AI laws, with recruitment a key focus area. The EU AI Act has classified AI hiring tools as “high-risk,” meaning they will be subject to strict transparency and fairness requirements.

In the UK, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has emphasised that AI hiring systems must be explainable, fair, and compliant with data protection laws. Failure to comply in these areas may mean that businesses find themselves facing serious consequences.

What comes next?

Businesses should critically assess their AI hiring tools by asking these important questions: Are these systems designed and tested for bias? Is there a clear understanding of how decisions are made by the AI? And, most importantly, do the AI systems comply with the latest data protection laws?

The future of AI in hiring will likely depend on how well businesses adapt. Companies taking a proactive approach will be better positioned to navigate these new challenges. Conversely, those that take a hands-off approach, assuming AI can handle processes without oversight, risk costly mistakes. The legal and ethical landscape of AI in recruitment is changing at an exceptional rate, and understanding these changes now can help prevent future complications.

The bottom line

In times such as these, education is crucial for successful AI deployment. AI has the potential to transform recruitment for the better, but without proper safeguards, it risks reinforcing existing issues and creating new, additional concerns.

Addressing these issues and more: The DPO Centre’s webinar series, “The Privacy Puzzle”, continues at 2pm on March 18. The upcoming instalment welcomes industry experts in discussions around best practices for using AI in recruitment responsibly, as well as covering the key legal considerations, and strategies for ensuring compliance with evolving regulations.

This promises to be an essential discussion for any business looking to harness the power of AI in hiring, whilst avoiding legal and ethical issues. Reserve your space.

Multi-million pound cash injection for vacant brownfield site in Rochdale

Helen Greaney

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05/03/2025

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Multi-million pound cash injection for vacant brownfield site in Rochdale

Long-awaited redevelopment of a vacant brownfield site in Rochdale has moved a step closer, following a £15 million grant from the government’s community regeneration partnership.

The cash injection will support the delivery of new homes and a public park on the former central retail park close to Rochdale train station, which has stood vacant for more than a decade.

The scheme, known as Station Gardens (CGI pictured) will feature more than 200 homes, which will include apartments and houses, and a park for the use of the wider community, as well as a retail unit.

The council will now explore a number of different funding options to deliver the scheme, but the funding boost has given it a much needed jumpstart and contractors are expected to start build out of the site this year.

The cash injection was announced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) as part of a wider £20 million funding award for the borough.

Funding will also support a project to breathe new life into empty town centre units by creating local craft workspaces, retail outlets and a youth arts centre to help community engagement.

It will also support the rebuild of one of the buildings on Hopwood Hall College’s Rochdale campus to create an additional floor for Higher Education and Access Students.

The Station Gardens scheme is part of a wider redevelopment of the area around the borough’s main train station, with work to create a new public square and improved public realm in front of the train station set to get under way on site soon.

In addition, 33 new build to rent apartments will be created on the corner of Maclure Road and Station Road, just across the road from the train station, using funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA) brownfield land fund. Contractors are expected to start delivering this scheme in late spring.

Councillor Danny Meredith said: “We’re delighted to secure funding for this vital project, which we have been working really hard to get delivered. This scheme will transform an empty brownfield site into much needed new homes, including affordable homes, and a high-quality public park and will bring huge benefits to the wider area.

“Situated just minutes from our newly regenerated Rochdale town centre and the train station, which gives easy access to Manchester, Leeds and the rest of the borough, this is a fantastic site for new homes.”

The project is also part of the borough’s wider rail strategy, which seeks to redevelop brownfield sites around the borough’s five railway stations, with up to 7,000 new homes and new employment sites.

Paul Waugh, MP for Rochdale, said: “I’m delighted that the government is helping to kickstart the delivery of this worthwhile project to build new homes on this key site close to Rochdale town centre and the Milkstone and Deeplish neighbourhoods. It’s vital that, instead of sitting around vacant, empty sites are put to use supporting the regeneration of our communities and the creation of much needed, high quality homes. I can’t wait to see this project get under way.”

Preservation plans revealed for Ramsbottom’s Peel Tower thanks to grant

Helen Greaney

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05/03/2025

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Preservation plans revealed for Ramsbottom’s Peel Tower thanks to grant

A £57,000 National Lottery Heritage Fund grant will enable a condition survey to be carried out at Ramsbottom’s Peel Tower, with a view to preserving the iconic landmark.

Peel Tower is a Grade 2 Listed Building that has been standing at the top of Holcombe Hill since 1852 and can be seen for many miles around.

It was built after the death of the Bury-born prime minister, and founder of the Metropolitan Police Force, Sir Robert Peel.

It attracts thousands of visitors, locally and from far and wide.

Despite repairs carried in the past, concerns have arisen about the condition of the monument due to water ingress, broken windows, and damaged external mortar.

Councillor Alan Quinn said: “Undertaking a condition survey will help us determine the current physical condition of this important historic monument, and give us a clearer picture of the works needed to preserve it.”

To deliver the Peel Tower project, Bury Council will work alongside Greenmount Village Community and community interest company Proffitts CiC. There will also be opportunities for residents, schools and volunteers to also get involved.

Cllr Quinn added: “We will be working with heritage specialists and specialist surveyors so that they can help us plan and prioritise future repairs, as well as help us ensure that any works are completed in accordance with the tower’s Listed Building status.

“We will also work with ecologists who will conduct wildlife surveys to ensure any roosting bats are safely accommodated and to make recommendations for improving the upland grassed moorland that surrounds the tower.”

Survey work is due to start at the tower in spring 2025.

A representative of Greenmount Village Community commented: “Our group are excited to be part of this project. Peel Monument is a renowned feature within Bury, and we’re thrilled that we can work alongside Bury Council and the heritage specialists to uncover a little more about the tower that we visit so often.

“We’re particularly excited as the project also offers residents, school children and volunteers the chance to get involved in a range of heritage and ecological activities. There will be bat walks, heritage talks, heritage skills workshops, educational research projects, art projects to design new interpretation panels, and even the opportunity to share wildlife and ecology details directly with the survey teams – so lots to look forward to!’’

Volunteers open Peel Tower to the public on certain weekend dates each month. The tower is open if a flag is flying from the top.

Depraved man jailed for grooming Manchester girl

Crime

Helen Greaney

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05/03/2025

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Depraved man jailed for grooming Manchester girl

A man who groomed and abducted a Manchester girl, was jailed yesterday.

David Stewart (25) of Fordhouse Lane, Birmingham, will service nine years after pleading guilty to two charges of sexual activity with a child under 16, meeting a child following sexual grooming, child abduction, and witness intimidation.

He is also subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order.

In August 2023, Manchester Children’s Services received a disclosure from a parent who had serious concerns about the inappropriate behaviour of Stewart towards her teenage daughter.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police’s Complex Safeguarding Hub launched an investigation to understand the serious allegations whilst specialist agencies were deployed to safeguard the victim and her family.

The investigation uncovered that around May 2023, Stewart (pictured) contacted the 13-year-old girl on social media.

Over several months, he groomed his victim, isolated her from support, lured her away from family and went on to sexually exploit her.

In September 2023, Stewart was arrested on suspicion of sexual grooming. He was bailed whilst detectives built a case, with a child abduction warning notice.

In December 2023, intelligence showed that Stewart was still in contact with the victim.

Detectives identified that he had lured her to the airport and following an extensive CCTV trawl, they found crucial footage of Stewart sexually abusing the victim.

A man hunt was launched to trace Stewart, and he was swiftly arrested in Shropshire in the West Midlands. He was transported back to Manchester, and remanded.

Detective inspector Chris Chadderton said: “Stewart manipulated and abused this young girl to satisfy his own depraved sexual urges. He continued to offend whilst under police investigation, demonstrating his callous and brazen nature, so I am pleased that this sentence has been passed down and he is now behind bars.

“I, and the entire partnership in our Complex Safeguarding Hub, would like to praise the victim for her courage in providing evidence in this case. Without her support, we would not have had the strong case that we built, which ultimately left Stewart with no choice but to plead guilty to his crimes.”

Gallery Oldham exhibition shows Old Library brought back to life

Consultation

Helen Greaney

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05/03/2025

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Gallery Oldham exhibition shows Old Library brought back to life

The latest exhibition at Gallery Oldham looks forward to the next chapter in the long history of a much-loved building.

The exhibition is titled “New life in an old building” and is a celebration of the skilful restoration of the Old Library, which is set reopen in 2025.

The displays look back and explore the history of this Victorian venue which has served the community since 1883.

It is a place where many Oldhamers attended their first exhibition or borrowed their first library book.

The exhibition also gives an insight into the work that has been carried out to restore the building to its former glory.

A series of specially commissioned images by photographer Ingrid Turner has captured the stories of those who have contributed to the restoration.

Later this year a new chapter will begin as the Old Library building becomes home to new civic functions. These will include the Mayor’s Parlour and the Council Chamber.

The building will also contain studio spaces so the creativity of Oldham Theatre Workshop’s young people can flourish. On the second floor one of the original art gallery spaces will be beautifully restored for visitors to enjoy.

Councillor Peter Dean said: “As a born and bred Oldhamer who has visited the building many times since I was a little, I can’t wait to see the Old Library building back open.

“This restoration project has been really popular with a lot of residents as the building has been a big part of their lives. It’ll soon be accessible to a new generation of visitors and is a big part in our overall regeneration plans for the town centre.

“If you want to find out more and gain a real insight into how skilled men and women have brought this building back to life I’d urge you to take a trip down to Gallery Oldham and see the great photos Ingrid Turner has taken.”

The exhibition “New life in an old building” will run at Gallery Oldham from March 15 to May 31.

There is also a scheduled gallery talk at 2pm on Wednesday, April, 23 for visitors.

Notts Sport Introduces CocoTurf: The Future of Non-Plastic Artificial Grass

News Desk

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05/03/2025

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Notts Sport Introduces CocoTurf: The Future of Non-Plastic Artificial Grass

Notts Sport, a UK leader in play and sports surfacing, has announced the launch of CocoTurf, the world’s first completely plastic-free artificial grass. Made from natural coconut fibres, CocoTurf presents a sustainable, environmentally friendly alternative for playgrounds and recreational spaces, offering exceptional durability and high performance.

As the demand for eco-friendly solutions grows, Notts Sport has taken a pioneering step by eliminating plastics from artificial turf. Unlike traditional synthetic grass, which relies on plastic-based materials, CocoTurf is entirely free from plastics, microplastics, and harmful per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), ensuring both environmental and safety benefits.

CocoTurf is produced using coconut husks, a renewable resource that is processed into robust, high-performance fibres. The surface is reinforced with a natural rubber latex backing, making it 100% plastic-free and non-toxic. This sustainable composition makes CocoTurf an ideal solution for playgrounds, schools, parks, and high-traffic outdoor areas.

One of the standout features of CocoTurf is its positive environmental impact. Unlike conventional artificial turf, which can contribute to microplastic pollution, CocoTurf is biodegradable, reducing its impact on the planet. By using coconut fibres instead of synthetic materials, the product also lowers carbon emissions associated with plastic-based surfacing. Additionally, it is designed for longevity, offering resilience against harsh weather conditions and heavy use.

Each coconut produces approximately 200 grams of usable fibres, with 600 coconut husks providing enough material to surface a 60-square-metre play area.

Duncan Bennett, CEO of Notts Sport, emphasised the importance of this innovation: “This is a milestone in the evolution of outdoor play surfaces. Our drive to find ever more sustainable surfacing solutions has led us to invent the world’s first non-plastic synthetic grass—CocoTurf. This is not just another product—it’s a revolution in sustainability. For the first time, communities can install an artificial surface without the harmful impact of plastics. This is the future of play surfaces, and we’re thrilled to lead the charge.”

With its advanced design and strong performance, CocoTurf is the perfect choice for those seeking an environmentally responsible, durable, and safe surfacing option. It promises to transform outdoor spaces by providing a green alternative that upholds the highest safety and performance standards while minimising the environmental impact of synthetic grass.

Notts Sport is leading the way towards a more sustainable future with CocoTurf, enabling communities to enjoy the benefits of artificial turf while protecting the environment and future generations.

Samuel and Co Trading Champions Affordable Financial Education Amidst Tuition Fee Increases

Education

News Desk

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04/03/2025

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Samuel and Co Trading Champions Affordable Financial Education Amidst Tuition Fee Increases

As higher education costs continue to climb, Samuel and Co Trading stands out as a leading provider of accessible and high-quality financial education. Established in 2012, the company has been instrumental in equipping students with practical trading skills and the confidence to navigate financial markets.

The financial strain on UK university students is increasing, with tuition fees set to rise to £9,535 per year from September 2025, marking the first increase in eight years. Coupled with maintenance loans that fail to cover basic living costs, students now face average annual study expenses exceeding £22,000.

In response, Samuel and Co Trading provides Ofqual-regulated Diplomas in Financial Trading, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional university degrees. Students can achieve a Level 5 Diploma—equivalent to a Foundation Degree—in just 12 weeks, or complete a Level 7 Diploma, comparable to a Master’s Degree, at a significantly lower cost than a university education. With some graduate salaries now on par with minimum wage, these accelerated programmes offer an efficient and affordable pathway into the financial sector.

The company’s dedication to excellence has been recognised through multiple industry awards. In the 2025 Global Banking and Finance Awards®, Samuel and Co Trading secured “Best Online Financial Education & Training UK 2025” and “Best Forex Education UK 2025”. Additionally, Finance Derivative Magazine awarded them “Best Online Trading Course Provider UK 2025”, while World Business Outlook presented accolades for “Best Trading Guidance and Support Provider Europe 2025”, “Leading Trading Education Management Company Europe 2025”, and “Most Trusted Personal Trading Strategies Provider Europe 2025”. Furthermore, Brands Review Magazine recognised them with “Innovation in Trading Strategies UK 2025” and “Trading Education and Mentorship Award UK 2025”. These awards highlight Samuel and Co Trading’s commitment to educational excellence.

Founder and CEO, Samuel Leach, reflects on the company’s mission:

“When I started Samuel and Co Trading in 2012, I wanted to democratise financial education. The aim was to provide practical, affordable, and high-quality training to people who are passionate about trading. Our recent accolades and the success of our students show that we’re on the right path.”

As tuition fees continue to rise and the financial sector evolves, Samuel and Co Trading remains dedicated to delivering affordable, high-quality financial education, shaping the next generation of traders.

About Samuel and Co Trading

Samuel and Co Trading was founded in 2012 by Samuel Leach with the mission of assisting individuals to succeed in financial trading. The company provides accredited and industry-recognised financial education, including Ofqual-regulated diplomas designed to fast-track students into trading careers. With courses led by seasoned professionals, Samuel and Co Trading ensures that students gain practical, real-world experience. Recognised as a leader in the sector, the company has trained thousands of individuals.

Be Cool Refrigeration Achieves 100 AC Installations in 2024

Business

News Desk

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04/03/2025

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Be Cool Refrigeration Achieves 100 AC Installations in 2024

Be Cool Refrigeration, a leading air conditioning installation, maintenance, and repair service provider, has successfully installed 100 air conditioning units in 2024. The company’s recent market study highlights important consumer trends, revealing the distinct needs and preferences of homeowners and businesses in the UK.

Key Insights on Consumer Trends in Air Conditioning Installations

As the demand for air conditioning solutions continues to rise, Be Cool Refrigeration’s recent findings shed light on the changing landscape of the industry. The company analysed 100 installations completed in 2024, providing a snapshot of the evolving trends in air conditioning preferences.

Domestic vs. Commercial Installations

Of the 100 air conditioning units installed by Be Cool Refrigeration, 31.66% were for domestic clients, while the remaining 68.34% were for commercial customers. This clear division highlights the growing commercial demand for air conditioning systems across various business sectors, from office spaces to retail outlets.

Domestic Consumer Preferences

Domestic customers showed a strong preference for split system air conditioners, with 74% opting for this type of installation. Known for their affordability and ease of installation, split systems remain the go-to choice for homeowners seeking cost-effective cooling solutions. However, 26% of domestic customers selected ducted air conditioning, which offers a more discreet and whole-home cooling solution.

An emerging trend among domestic buyers was a focus on affordability. Many consumers prioritised the upfront cost of their air conditioning systems rather than considering the long-term energy efficiency of their purchases. While this cost-conscious approach is understandable, it often overlooks the potential savings that more energy-efficient systems can offer over time.

Commercial Consumer Preferences

Commercial clients demonstrated a clear preference for ceiling cassette air conditioning systems, with 83.33% of all commercial installations opting for this solution. Ceiling cassette units, ideal for offices, restaurants, and retail environments, provide powerful cooling while maintaining a sleek, unobtrusive design. The remaining 16.67% of commercial clients selected a range of alternative systems, including ducted, floor-mounted, and VRF/VRV units, depending on their specific business needs.

This preference for ceiling cassette units in commercial spaces aligns with the growing trend towards high-efficiency, space-saving designs in modern office and retail environments. These systems provide businesses with reliable, consistent cooling while helping to minimise disruption to the aesthetics of their spaces.

The Future of Air Conditioning Installations in the UK

Looking ahead to 2025, Be Cool Refrigeration predicts a shift in consumer behaviour, particularly within the domestic market. With rising energy costs and increasing awareness of sustainability, more consumers are expected to prioritise long-term energy efficiency over short-term cost savings. This shift may lead to greater demand for more energy-efficient air conditioning systems that provide higher performance at a lower lifetime cost.

“Our data shows that domestic buyers often opt for lower-cost solutions upfront, whereas commercial clients prioritise functionality and efficiency,” said Ali Elm, Managing Director of Be Cool Refrigeration. “We encourage homeowners to consider energy efficiency and total lifetime cost savings when investing in air conditioning.”

As the air conditioning market continues to grow, Be Cool Refrigeration remains committed to providing high-quality installations, expert guidance, and ongoing maintenance support to both residential and commercial clients. The company’s dedication to sustainability and customer satisfaction ensures that all clients receive the most efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for their cooling needs.

About Be Cool Refrigeration

Be Cool Refrigeration is a trusted provider of air conditioning and refrigeration solutions across London and beyond. Specialising in installation, servicing, and maintenance, the company delivers energy-efficient cooling solutions tailored to both residential and commercial clients. With a commitment to high-quality service and expert advice, Be Cool Refrigeration continues to lead the industry with reliable, sustainable air conditioning solutions.