Manchester entrepreneur Anne Gwilliam is sharing two decades’ of expertise to help other start-up and small businesses as they enter 2024.
‘The Small Business Success Coach’ is on a mission to reduce the number of small
businesses that fail in their early days and as part of this mission is offering a free online masterclass.
The course – – takes place online at 8pm on January 17 to help simplify the essential numbers for small business owners.
Anne (44) said: “40% of small business owners consider themselves financially illiterate (CPA), and the most common reason for business failure is running out of money, meaning that there is a huge risk to small businesses if their owners do not know their numbers, particularly in the current economic climate.
“With Covid, Brexit and most recently the cost-of-living crisis, the business landscape is far more challenging than in previous years – and I’m hearing from my clients there is
real uncertainty and uneasiness about what lies ahead. I want to do what I can to help get people off on the right foot, and to help give them some confidence back, so that they feel more in control of their business”.
Getting numbers right
Having spent nearly 20 years as an accountant in industry and through the work she now does with small business owners, Anne knows the impact of not getting the numbers right and is determined to reduce the rate of small business failures.
Anne said: “It breaks my heart to see small business owners work so hard to build up their
businesses, just to see them fail. I strongly believe that many small business failures could be avoided if their owners knew the numbers and carried out some simple forecasting.
“It is almost impossible to deal with a shortfall in cash if you don’t know about it in advance, but with some simple cash flow forecasting, you can see problems coming in advance, and more importantly take action to avoid the problem.
“Most small business owners that I speak to dislike the numbers, but the good news is that you don’t need to be an accountant, you just need to know a few simple numbers that could make all the difference to the success of your business.
“That’s why I’m offering this free masterclass (booked via link above) to try to help as many small business owners as possible to get to know those important numbers and avoid becoming a failure statistic in 2024.”
More than 500 drivers were arrested for drink or drug driving offences between December 1 and January 1.
Greater Manchester Police were carrying out Operation Limit, the national campaign to target high-risk drivers who ignore rules and put lives unnecessarily at risk.
The Safer Transport Team arrested 507 motorists for drink or drug driving offences, as they carried out roadside checks around Greater Manchester including in Bolton, Bury, Salford, Tameside and Wigan.
Range of offences
In addition, traffic offence reports were also handed out to drivers for offences ranging from using mobile devices behind the wheel, not wearing a seatbelt and speeding – all of which, alongside drink and drug driving, make up the ‘Fatal Four’.
With others being penalised for vehicle defects which in poor weather conditions can have catastrophic effects, and even no insurance.
On Christmas Eve, 19 motorists were arrested, with 13 on Christmas Day and 43 on New Year’s Eve.
Unacceptable
Chief inspector Michael Parker said: “It is unacceptable that so many motorists found it acceptable to put the public at risk by driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs on the roads of Greater Manchester.
“But by conducting proactive policing operations and targeting high-risk drivers by acting upon information from the public we have removed 507 from the roads in just one month.
“Our enforcement tactics and zero-tolerance approach run 365 days a year and not just over Christmas, so if you know of a drink driver that is a loved one, please encourage them to not get in their vehicle whilst under the influence as it can have fatal consequences.
“Failing that you can always report them anonymously via Crimestoppers and we will take robust action to ensure their actions are punished.”
A dad of two who turned his life around is providing a lifeline to those facing similar mental health struggles in Manchester.
Six years ago Manuel Benages (pictured) set up Athletic Minds Foundation with no funding, premises or team behind him on a mission to provide crucial mental health support to people nationally.
On Blue Monday, he announces that his foundation is coming to Manchester as a positive response to the prevailing notion of it being the most depressing day of the year.
The charity’s origins are deeply intertwined with Manuel’s personal journey, marked by profound hardships and challenges.
Severe depression
Originally from Halifax, the 43 -year-old who is now based in Manchester, previously experienced severe depression due to many factors including the suicide of a close friend, abandonment and neglect, and being abused within foster and care homes.
Coping strategies such as alcohol and drugs only intensified his struggles, leading to a mental breakdown and his own attempted suicides as a means of escape before a transformative moment emerged from his darkest despair.
Manuel said: “I was in a very bad place. I lost a very close friend to suicide closely followed by the tragic death of my brother, which sent me into a downwards spiral. I then lost my mother due to an alcohol induced brain hemorrhage.
“It was a tough road, but somehow, I managed to find a way back. I made the decision to quit everything that was bad for me.
“I realised the first step was being honest with myself, which turned out to be the most challenging part because it forced me to make the necessary changes I simply had to make. My personal journey took me from darkness to light – and that’s where my inspiration for the charity originated – a simple desire to assist others.
“I didn’t have a lot of support in my darkest moments, so by packaging the lessons I’ve learned and what worked for me, I’ve been able to support so many others dealing with their own struggles.
“Our launch in Manchester is a monumental moment. As a major urban centre, Manchester faces massive mental health challenges through social and financial deprivation causing loneliness and helplessness. We aspire to reach as many individuals as possible so that nobody has to suffer in silence.”
Athletic Minds Foundation
The Athletic Minds Foundation, formerly known as GetFit4MentalWellness, originally started in Calderdale in 2018, before recently rebranding to mark a new chapter in its expansion. Manchester will be the charity’s second hub, the first being in Sowerby Bridge, with a third to be announced in the very near future.
The charity has supported nearly 100,000 individuals, empowering them to lead healthier, happier lives.
Among the programmes that will be offered at the Manchester hub will include a unique 8-week mental wellness course, physical fitness activities, holistic classes, mental health workshops, suicide prevention and intervention, coping with loss and grief, a community wellness hub, free counselling and online support.
Hope and assistance
Manuel added: “I can’t express how much I’m looking forward to seeing the Manchester hub come to life. This is not just a physical space; it’s a manifestation of our collective efforts to bring positive change to those who need it the most.
“We’ve planted a seed of hope and assistance. The hub is a testament to our dedication to help the diverse and vibrant community of Manchester thrive mentally and emotionally.
“While my goal is to help others, the journey of building this charity has also been instrumental in my own personal healing. It’s a reciprocal process where the more I give to the community, the more I find strength and purpose in my own battles.
“We plan to replicate our hubs all over the UK. This is just the beginning.”
Walmsley Wilkinson, a leader in management recruitment, is cautioning employers to be mindful during performance appraisals. This advice follows surveys revealing a staggering 85% of employees would contemplate leaving their job after receiving an appraisal they perceive as unjust.
With the new year often marking a period of setting fresh goals, it also signifies a time for many companies to review past performances through annual employee appraisals.
While for numerous employees this process is affirming and acknowledges their achievements, others face the disappointment of negative feedback and unforeseen revelations.
Taryn Wilkinson, co-founder of Walmsley Wilkinson Executive and Management Recruitment, emphasises: “Performance reviews are important for an individual’s training and development but to be successful they require the skills of a well prepared Manager who has already provided feedback and coaching, consistently throughout the year ie they are constructive about issues and generous with praise.
“Sadly, too many managers see the appraisal meeting as their opportunity to impart negative feedback that then comes as a surprise to the employee.”
Adobe’s study, ‘The Performance Reviews Get a Failing Grade‘, uncovered that 22% of employees have wept following a poor appraisal, while 20% found it necessary to leave a job after a stressful review.
Reflektive, an employee management firm, found that 85% of surveyed workers would consider leaving their employer post an unfair appraisal.
Further, the Adobe survey found that 58% of office workers deem performance reviews stressful, and 68% of Millennial managers doubt their effectiveness.
Employee resignations often spike in January, influenced by New Year resolutions and negative appraisal experiences. A significant factor in this turnover is inadequate management practices, encapsulated by the adage ‘people leave managers, not jobs.’
Taryn added: “These survey results demonstrate that appraisals can sometimes do more harm than good. Businesses need to ensure they have a robust, time effective process that their employees are engaged with, and their appraising managers are well trained at conducting. If an appraisal system is in place, it shouldn’t be an onerous chore for managers or employees.
“Thankfully we have the opportunity to work with many organisations that demonstrate best practice in employee engagement and development. Their managers know how to conduct effective appraisals. However, it’s disheartening when we hear first-hand tales of woe from other individuals.
“What should be a positive 360 degree feedback meeting with manager and employee in which achievements and improvements are discussed with action plans and coaching programmes agreed, can instead be a train crash of a situation which results in businesses losing talent. Annual appraisals should not be the catalyst for employee resignations”.
Walmsley Wilkinson, helmed by Linda Walmsley and Taryn Wilkinson, specialises in executive and management recruitment. They assist a diverse range of organisations, from large corporations to family-owned businesses and the third sector, in securing top leadership talent within the UK and globally.
Sterling Central, a digital brokerage platform, has recently garnered attention in the trading community. This Sterling-Central.com review aims to provide an insightful analysis of its services and offerings.
Catering primarily to traders who are keen to share their investment knowledge and strategies, Sterling Central offers a unique environment where users can not only trade but also inspire others by sharing their trading methods. This approach fosters a collaborative space where both novice and seasoned traders can benefit from shared experiences and strategies.
The platform is designed to facilitate millions of transactions, allowing users to execute trades efficiently and effectively. What sets Sterling Central apart is its focus on community-driven trading. Users can “copy” the strategies of successful traders, leveraging their expertise to guide their own investment decisions. This feature is particularly beneficial for those new to trading, providing them with a practical learning curve. Additionally, experienced traders gain the opportunity to influence and lead within the community, showcasing their skills and knowledge.
Sterling-Central.com Review: Navigating Markets with Sterling Central
Forex Trading Solutions
Sterling Central’s Forex trading solutions are a standout feature. The platform provides traders with cutting-edge tools to engage in the foreign exchange market. Users benefit from real-time analytics that deliver critical market insights, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions. Seamless execution capabilities ensure that trades are performed with precision, offering traders confidence and efficiency in navigating the complex world of currency pairs.
Cryptocurrency Trading Platforms
In the realm of digital assets, Sterling Central’s cryptocurrency trading platforms stand as a robust option. These specialized platforms are tailored to keep traders one step ahead in the rapidly evolving crypto market. With features that enable the swift execution of trades and the exploration of new opportunities, Sterling Central makes diving into the world of cryptocurrencies both accessible and exciting.
Global Commodities Portfolio
Sterling Central also offers a diverse commodities trading portfolio. Traders can broaden their investment horizon by accessing a range of commodities, including precious metals and agricultural products. The platform equips traders with essential tools and insights, enabling them to navigate the global commodities markets with confidence and strategy.
Share Trading Made Simple
For those interested in share trading, Sterling Central simplifies the process. The platforms are designed to be user-friendly, catering to both experienced investors and beginners. Sterling Central provides the necessary tools and resources, making the buying and selling of shares a straightforward and efficient experience.
Equity Trading Made Easy
Sterling Central also excels in equity trading, offering a wide array of stocks to its users. The platforms are intuitive, featuring real-time market data and research tools. This ensures that traders can engage in equity trading effortlessly, with lightning-fast execution, so they never miss a critical trading opportunity.
Index Investments for Diversification
Lastly, Sterling Central allows traders to harness the power of indices for portfolio diversification. The platform provides access to a broad spectrum of global indices, from major benchmarks to niche indicators. This feature enables traders to spread risk and effectively capture market trends, making it an invaluable tool for strategic portfolio management.
Sterling-Central.com Review: Unlocking Market Wisdom with Sterling Central
Sterling Central offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to empower traders with knowledge and insights. This section delves into the various aspects of the platform’s expert insights, highlighting how they contribute to a trader’s success.
Educational Resources for Every Trader
At the core of Sterling Central’s offerings are its extensive educational materials. These resources cater to traders of all levels, from beginners to seasoned investors. The educational content is meticulously curated to provide a solid foundation in trading fundamentals while also offering advanced strategies and tips. This approach ensures that every trader, regardless of their experience, can find valuable information to enhance their trading skills.
In-Depth Market Research
Understanding market dynamics is crucial for successful trading. Sterling Central provides its clients with valuable market research that covers a broad spectrum of financial markets and trading instruments. This research is conducted by experienced analysts and offers deep insights into market trends, potential opportunities, and risks. Such thorough research aids traders in making well-informed decisions.
Live Streaming Data and Analysis
Real-time information is vital in the fast-paced world of trading. Sterling Central offers live streaming data that keeps traders up-to-date with the latest market movements. This feature is complemented by in-depth analysis, providing a comprehensive view of market conditions. The live data and analysis enable traders to react promptly to market changes, capitalizing on opportunities as they arise.
Tools for Success
To further support its clients, Sterling Central equips traders with advanced tools for analysis and decision-making. These tools are integrated into the platform, offering convenience and efficiency. By utilizing these tools, traders can analyze market trends, assess risk, and develop strategies that align with their investment goals.
Sterling-Central.com Review: Tailored Accounts for Every Trader
Sterling Central offers a range of account types to cater to the diverse needs of traders at different levels of expertise and investment capacity. Each account type comes with its unique set of features and benefits designed to enhance the trading experience. Below is a detailed look at each account type offered by Sterling Central.
Basic – Entry-Level Trading ($250)
Access to All Markets: Traders can explore various markets.
Limited Asset Trading: Some restrictions on asset availability.
Copy Trading Access: Enables following and copying other traders’ strategies.
Standard Spreads and Swaps: Regular rates apply.
Senior Account Manager Intro: Initial guidance from an experienced manager.
Exclusive Access to Promos, Events, and Products: Premium access to events and unique products like a Visa card connected to a trading account.
Invitation to Annual Conferences Hosted by the Four Seasons: Exclusive invitations to high-profile conferences.
Sterling-Central.com Review: Conclusion
In this Sterling-Central.com review, we have comprehensively explored the various facets of the broker, revealing a platform rich in features and designed to cater to a wide spectrum of traders. From its diverse market access, encompassing everything from Forex to cryptocurrencies, to its range of account types, Sterling Central demonstrates a commitment to providing a versatile and inclusive trading environment.
The educational resources and expert insights offered by Sterling Central are particularly noteworthy. They equip traders with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of the financial markets. Whether it’s through live streaming data, in-depth analysis, or educational materials, the platform ensures that its users are well-informed and prepared for trading.
Moreover, the tiered account system is a standout feature, offering tailored solutions to meet the needs of traders at different stages of their investment journey. From the basic account, ideal for newcomers, to the exclusive Diamond account, suitable for high-net-worth individuals, each account type provides unique benefits and features, ensuring that every trader finds a suitable match for their trading style and financial goals.
As 2023 closed with a global furniture sector valuation of approximately $740 billion, major industry players are preparing to convene at the International Istanbul Furniture Fair, slated for 23rd to 28th January. This event, a hallmark and esteemed gathering within the sector, anticipates the participation of 200,000 professionals globally.
The world’s furniture industry is gearing up for the International Istanbul Furniture Fair (IIFF2024), scheduled from 23rd to 28th January. This event, a collaborative effort between TUYAP Fair Organisation Group and Mos Fair Organisation, and backed by the Furniture Associations Federation (MOSFED), is set to welcome 200,000 industry experts from 200 nations. Over a thousand companies, representing 3,000 brands, will be present at the TUYAP Fair and Congress Center and Istanbul Fair Center.
Renowned as a prestigious meeting in the furniture industry, the fair’s theme “Visit Istanbul, Experience Istanbul” promises to exhibit the most recent 2024 designs across various product categories to attendees.
“We continue to produce with over 45,000 manufacturers”
“In this annually expanding sector, our aim is always to provide the finest products. We’ve established ourselves as a leading furniture manufacturer globally. We continue our production across all product categories with more than 45,000 manufacturers. By crafting powerful, top-quality designs, we not only engage with our stakeholders through IIFF but also display our capabilities. We invite the entire industry to our fair, where we will showcase 2024’s furniture trends,” shared Ahmet Güleç, President of MOSFED, IIFF’s supporter and the leading organisation in the Turkish furniture industry.
“We organise one of the world’s largest furniture fairs”
İlhan Ersözlü, General Manager of Tuyap Fairs Organisation, highlighted the significant role of IIFF on the global stage, stating:
“Mounting a fair across multiple venues in our industry is an unparalleled global initiative. Yet, Tuyap has adeptly organised the third edition of IIFF concurrently at Tuyap Fair and Congress Center and Istanbul Fair Center, completing all essential preparations. We are hosting one of the planet’s largest furniture fairs. Our contribution to both national and industry exports is substantial. At IIFF2024, we will connect 200,000 business professionals from a multitude of countries with 3,000 brands via our international offices and network. We extend an invitation to all interested to attend Istanbul’s most significant industry event.”
A Dynamic Environment for New Collaborations
ResearchAndMarkets’ data indicates the global furniture sector, closing 2023 with $739.44 billion, is forecasted to reach $935.9 billion by 2027. Türkiye, boasting an annual production volume of $12 billion, will host its global counterparts. IIFF will feature a variety of furniture including modern modular, luxury, beds and bases, baby and children’s, youth room, garden, office-school, and accessories.
IIFF2024, spanning six days, will design exhibition halls at the Istanbul Fair Center and Tuyap Fair and Congress Center, categorised by product groups. This arrangement will enable visitors to thoroughly explore a diverse product range. Additionally, the fair aims to create a dynamic atmosphere to foster new collaborations.
Former Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick never witnessed any disciplinary issues when coaching Jadon Sancho and feels the winger’s Borussia Dortmund return makes “perfect sense”.
Sancho returned to former club Dortmund on loan this week, having starred throughout a four-year spell in the Bundesliga before making a £73million (€85m) move to Old Trafford in 2021.
The 23-year-old has been made to train away from United’s first team and has not featured in a Red Devils squad since being involved in a public spat with boss Erik ten Hag in September.
Having seen his training performances questioned by Ten Hag in the aftermath of a Premier League defeat to Arsenal, Sancho described himself as a “scapegoat” on social media.
While Ten Hag had no intention of reintegrating Sancho after that incident, his predecessor Rangnick – who spent six months as United’s interim manager between 2021 and 2022 – enjoyed working with the wideman.
“In the six months I had him, there wasn’t a single discipline problem. On the contrary. He is a calm and pleasant guy,” Rangnick told Sky Sports in Germany.
“He had his best time in Dortmund and, when he was healthy, he always played for me.
“He wasn’t as carefree as in Dortmund, but that was also due to the overall situation. When he was fit, he was set and he did well under me.
“He no longer had a chance in Manchester. He now has to get back into a rhythm and get back into shape with Dortmund. From his point of view, the change makes perfect sense.”
Cameron Norrie has admitted to being concerned about a wrist injury ahead of the Australian Open, though he still believes he will be able to compete to his best level at the year’s first grand slam.
Norrie, who is seeded 19th for the Melbourne Park event, withdrew from the Auckland Classic on Thursday ahead of a scheduled quarter-final against Alejandro Tabilo.
That sparked concerns over his fitness ahead of the hard-court major, where he has never been beyond the third round, losing to Jiri Lehecka at that stage of the 2023 tournament.
Norrie’s Auckland withdrawal came after he felt pain in his left wrist following a third-round win over Luca van Assche on Wednesday, but the British number one hopes a late start at the Australian Open will ensure he is in peak condition.
“There was not a particular moment where I felt something happen or anything,” Norrie, who is scheduled to face Peru’s Juan Pablo Varillas in the first round on Tuesday, said of his injury.
“I was a bit sore so I obviously wasn’t able to play. I did a scan. It didn’t show anything too much. I’m here and it’s feeling a bit better.
“I couldn’t play Auckland so obviously I’m concerned, but we’re managing it with my team. It was better today, which is positive.
“It’s feeling better. I think I’m going to be good. Luckily I’m scheduled to play on Tuesday, so I have a few more days and I’m looking forward to practice tomorrow.”
The main draw of the Australian Open begins on a Sunday for the first time this year, following complaints about regular late finishes at the 2023 edition.
The defending champions in both the men’s and women’s singles events, Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka, headline the event’s first night session, with Jannik Sinner another big name in action on day one.
Erling Haaland is expected to recover from his foot injury by the end of January, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has revealed.
Haaland, who scored 52 goals in his first season in English football as City won the treble in 2022-23, last appeared in the champions’ Premier League defeat to Aston Villa on December 6.
The striker was initially expected to return over the festive period but has now missed eight matches across all competitions, and Guardiola ruled him out of Saturday’s trip to Newcastle United at his pre-match press conference on Friday.
City will head to Abu Dhabi for a warm-weather training camp after their trip to Tyneside, and Guardiola hopes Haaland will be able to return to training in the Gulf.
“It’s a little bit of a disturbing problem in his feet,” Guardiola said of Haaland’s injury. “It’s fine but the doctors decided to stop for one week and maybe restart in Abu Dhabi.
“Hopefully at the end of this month he’ll be ready. It was a little bit more than we expected in the beginning.
“It’s the bone. It needs time. With every injury you can do whatever you want but it’s a question of time.”
Following their winter break, City will play just two further fixtures in January, visiting Tottenham in the FA Cup on January 26 before hosting Burnley in the Premier League five days later.
