Business Manchester

Niagara Falls USA teams up with Mason Williams PR

Helen Greaney

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10/01/2025

Niagara Falls USA teams up with Mason Williams PR

Mason Williams says plans are underway to ensure the spotlight is firmly on Niagara Falls for 2025 – covering creative campaigns, press and influencer trips, press office management and strategic partnerships.

Niagara Falls USA has selected Mason Williams to handle all public relations from January 2025, driving awareness of both the beauty of Niagara Falls USA, and the hidden gems beyond the Falls that only locals know- such as scenic walking trails, observation areas, or viewing from the misty decks of boat tours that take visitors up close to the infamous waters.

“As one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Niagara Falls continues to captivate millions of visitors each year,” said Sara Harvey, director of Communications for Destination Niagara USA.

“We selected Mason Williams given their wealth of travel industry experience, their love of the Falls and the creative ideas their team put across during the pitch – their enthusiasm was infectious and we’re confident they’ll deliver some incredible results.”

Heading up the account is experienced senior account director, Sarah Grindley, supported by senior executive Charlotte Norton and managing director Rita Rowe.

Sarah’s PR career spans 12 years and three continents across London, New York and Sydney. With consumer, fashion and hotel and hospitality experience. She heads up a number of hotel and hospitality brands including Radio at ME London, the Adagio portfolio, Savage Garden rooftop at Doubletree Hilton Tower Bridge, as well as the Asmodee Games account, leading brand campaigns for the phenomenon that is Elf on the Shelf and recently appointed Stagecoach Performing Arts.

Rita Rowe, Mason Williams MD, said: “This is the best Christmas present that any agency could have; a fabulous client who wants to make some noise about a year-round destination with something special for every season – there is nothing quite like it. We can’t wait to get started and could not be more excited.

“We are planning out the campaign for 2025 covering press office, creative campaigns, partnerships and influencer and press trips which is being finalised now – time is of the essence and the team are raring to go.”

Niagara Falls USA’s team said: “As one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Niagara Falls continues to captivate millions of visitors each year. Located on the U.S. side of the Falls, Niagara Falls State Park offers an unparalleled experience with breathtaking views, educational opportunities, and unforgettable activities for all ages.”

£1 million cannabis farm discovered in Oldham

Crime

Helen Greaney

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10/01/2025

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£1 million cannabis farm discovered in Oldham

A cannabis farm worth £1 million has been discovered in Oldham.

Following information from members of the public, police forced entry to a property at Higginshaw Lane in Royton on Wednesday.

A detailed inspection, which was part of Operation AVRO, found the electricity supply had been bypassed too as part of a sophisticated setup.

Officers arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of cultivation of cannabis.

An investigation has been launched, whilst the haul will be dismantled, seized and destroyed.

Inspector Stuart Berry of GMP’s Oldham District, said: “This is a great example of our neighbourhood officers acting on information from the public to keep our communities safe.

“We know drugs supply has widespread consequences across Greater Manchester, and in Oldham we are determined to continue our approach of taking the fight back to the criminals on issues that matter the most to our local residents.

“We will continue to listen to concerns and take them on board when prioritising where in your community we need to have visible presence and what we need focus on to make people feel safer.

“You can report any concerns to us by calling 101 or through our Live Chat function at gmp.police.uk, or alternatively speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their website.”

North West businesses accounted for 14% of UK administrations in 2024

Employment

Helen Greaney

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10/01/2025

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North West businesses accounted for 14% of UK administrations in 2024

North West businesses accounted for 14% of administrations in 2024 – the second highest region in the UK – according to analysis by law firm Shakespeare Martineau.

More than 1,700 UK businesses, 248 of which came from the North West, filed for administration last year – marking a 28% and 5% increase compared to 2022 and 2023 respectively.

Retail, construction, hospitality, manufacturing and real estate were the worst-hit sectors for the second year in a row, collectively accounting for 55% of the 1,718 administrations.

Regionally, Greater London led the way with 23% of the filings, followed by the North West (14%) and the South East (11%), data from The Gazette Official Public Record has revealed.

With administrations approaching pre-Covid levels (1,794), an insolvency and restructuring expert has warned that ongoing tough trading conditions, rising geopolitical tensions and new tax burdens could tip even more businesses into financial distress.

Andy Taylor (pictured), partner and head of restructuring at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “In 2025, businesses across the UK will face an increasingly challenging environment, with a perfect storm of factors threatening to push more companies toward financial difficulty.

“Prolonged periods of difficult trading, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and the impact of new tax burdens introduced in the latest budget, will intensify the pressures many businesses are already grappling with.

“The increase in national insurance contributions, coupled with the lower threshold for payments, will stretch cash flows for companies that are already operating on razor-thin margins.

“Labour-intensive sectors, such as retail, hospitality and construction are particularly vulnerable as they often struggle to absorb rising overheads and additional costs.

“In addition to these financial pressures, many businesses are still dealing with the aftermath of the pandemic, inflationary costs and supply chain disruptions, which have left them more fragile and less able to weather the storm.

“As we saw in 2024, sectors like retail, hospitality and manufacturing were hit hardest, and there is a real risk that without targeted support, more businesses will be forced to make difficult decisions, including cost-cutting measures, layoffs or even closure.

“These pressures are only compounded by the uncertainty in the global economy, which has already led to weakened consumer confidence and subdued spending. While many experts predict a potential easing of inflation in 2025, the overall landscape remains unpredictable.

“It is crucial businesses do not bury their heads in the sand and ignore the signs of distress. Proactively assessing financial health, engaging with advisors early and taking steps to mitigate risks will be vital in navigating these turbulent times.

“Our advice remains consistent: seeking professional advice as soon as financial challenges become apparent opens up more options and can dramatically increase the chances of survival in what will likely be another tough year ahead.”

Your Trust celebrates accreditations for three Greater Manchester leisure venues

Lifestyle and Wellbeing

Helen Greaney

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10/01/2025

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Your Trust celebrates accreditations for three Greater Manchester leisure venues

Three leisure venues operated by the charity Your Trust have achieved a national accreditation in recognition of providing best-in-class quality and excellence.

Heywood Sports Village, Middleton Arena (pictured), and Rochdale Leisure Centre have all earned “Very Good” status from Quest, which is the UK’s leading quality scheme for leisure facilities, setting the benchmark for effective service management, customer engagement, and community impact.

Your Trust is the charity that operates leisure and culture venues across Rochdale Borough, and the achievement highlights Your Trust’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible, and community-focused leisure services across the borough to support active, creative, and healthy lifestyles for all residents.

The accreditation celebrates each centre’s commitment to high standards across key areas such as customer experience, safety, community engagement, and staff development.

Assessments involve a comprehensive evaluation of each centre’s day-to-day operations and community outreach, ensuring that these facilities not only meet but exceed national standards. It measures each facility’s success in providing welcoming, well-maintained, and inclusive environments for people of all ages and abilities.

Paul Hesketh, head of Leisure and Wellbeing at Your Trust, said: “Receiving ‘Very Good’ accreditation for three of our centres reflects the hard work and dedication of our teams at Heywood Sports Village, Middleton Arena and Rochdale Leisure Centre.

“This achievement not only celebrates the quality of services we deliver but also the trust and support we’ve earned from our community. Our goal is to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where residents of all ages and abilities can engage in healthy activities, connect with others and enjoy a vibrant community environment.

“This recognition confirms our commitment to these values and motivates us to keep raising the bar.”

David Gelsthorpe, chair of the Your Trust Board of Trustees, said: “We’re delighted to receive ‘Very Good’ accreditation at three Your Trust leisure centres and are extremely proud of the work that the Your Trust team does to support the local community.

“The Quest accreditation emphasises excellence in areas that align with Your Trust’s goals: supporting individuals to live more active, creative, and fulfilling lives. Each centre is dedicated to providing services that go beyond exercise to enrich mental health and well-being, creating a positive impact that resonates throughout the community.”

Your Trust leisure centres offer a range of activities with a focus on promoting health, wellness, and social connection among Rochdale’s diverse communities.

The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting: What You Need To Know

Gambling

News Desk

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10/01/2025

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Sports betting has evolved significantly over the past few decades, transforming from a niche activity into a mainstream pastime enjoyed by millions worldwide. This growth has been fueled by technological advancements, changing attitudes towards gambling, and the increasing commercialisation of sports.

However, the legal landscape of sports betting varies greatly across different regions, influenced by cultural, economic, and regulatory factors. This article provides an overview of the current legal frameworks governing sports betting and highlights the role of betting apps in this dynamic industry.

Global Perspectives on Sports Betting Regulation

North America: The Legalization Wave

In North America, the legal landscape of sports betting has undergone a seismic shift in recent years. The landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2018 (Murphy v. NCAA) struck down the federal ban on sports betting, allowing individual states to legalize and regulate the activity. Since then, numerous states have embraced sports betting, creating a patchwork of regulations. States like New Jersey and Pennsylvania have become leaders in the industry, offering both retail and online betting options. The legalization wave has not only boosted state revenues but also provided a regulated environment for consumers.

Europe: The United Kingdom’s Regulatory Model

The United Kingdom has long been at the forefront of sports betting regulation. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), established in 2005, oversees all forms of gambling, including sports betting. The UKGC’s regulatory framework emphasizes transparency, responsible gambling, and consumer protection. Betting operators must obtain licenses and adhere to strict guidelines to ensure fair play and integrity. Despite facing challenges related to problem gambling and advertising, the UK’s model is often cited as a benchmark for other countries.

Canada: Recent Developments

Canada’s approach to sports betting has also seen significant changes. Historically, sports betting was limited to parlay bets offered by provincial lottery corporations. However, the introduction of Bill C-218 in 2021, known as the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, allowed for single-event sports betting. This legislative change has enabled provinces to expand their betting offerings, providing more options for consumers and generating additional revenue.

The Role of Betting Apps

Betting apps have revolutionized the sports betting industry, offering convenience and accessibility to bettors. These apps allow users to place bets, track odds, and manage their accounts from their smartphones or tablets. The best betting apps provide a seamless user experience, with features such as live betting, cash-out options, and personalized notifications.

In the UK, for example, betting apps are regulated by the UKGC, ensuring they meet high standards of security and fairness. Popular apps like Bet365, William Hill, and Betfair offer a wide range of sports and markets, catering to both casual and serious bettors. These apps often include features like in-play betting, where users can place bets on events as they happen, and live streaming of sports events.

In the US, the legalization of sports betting has led to a surge in the development of betting apps. States with legal sports betting markets have seen the launch of numerous apps, each competing to offer the best odds, bonuses, and user experience. Apps like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM have become household names, providing bettors with a variety of options and promotions.

Challenges and Future Trends

While the expansion of sports betting presents numerous opportunities, it also brings challenges. Regulatory bodies must continuously adapt to address issues such as problem gambling, match-fixing, and money laundering. Ensuring that betting operators adhere to responsible gambling practices is crucial to protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of sports.

Looking ahead, the sports betting industry is likely to see further growth and innovation. The integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, could enhance the betting experience and improve regulatory oversight. Additionally, the continued expansion of legal sports betting markets worldwide will provide more opportunities for bettors and operators alike.

Conclusion

The legal landscape of sports betting is complex and ever-evolving, shaped by a myriad of factors across different regions. Understanding the regulatory frameworks and the role of betting apps is essential for anyone interested in this dynamic industry. As sports betting continues to grow, staying informed about legal developments and responsible gambling practices will be key to enjoying this popular pastime safely and responsibly.

GWSL welcomes Simon Williams as new managing director

Business

News Desk

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10/01/2025

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GWSL welcomes Simon Williams as new managing director

Simon Williams moves from Operations Director to Managing Director, poised to lead GWSL’s future growth and transformation.

Leading Immingham-based warehousing and storage provider, GWSL, has named Simon Williams as its new Managing Director. Simon transitions to the role following three successful years as Operations Director, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the position.

GWSL are a leading warehousing and storage solution that has over 50 years of experience in product handling. Simon, who previously built a 23-year career in the plastics packaging industry, shared his thoughts on the transition: “Starting again in a new sector was nerve-racking but it was also exciting to have the opportunity to transfer my skillset to a new team. Having grown my career over a long time, I was ready for a new challenge and I’m proud to have developed the business at GWSL with the support and trust of a great team.”

Over the past three years, Simon has overseen significant advancements at GWSL, including a £2 million investment in infrastructure. This investment brought two new warehouse buildings and an innovative fire detection system to the site, alongside a complete company rebrand. Simon’s efforts have laid the groundwork for a secure and prosperous future for the firm.

While Simon steps into his new role, business owner David Jobes will continue to be actively involved in the company. Simon remarked: “David and I are a team, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside him as I lead the company with strategies that will shape the future of GWSL.”

He added: “We are midway through a 4-year plan of investment during which we have increased capacity and implemented new systems. We’ll continue to focus on staff development and customer engagement, and make sure that Alan, our office Chihuahua gets his daily treats.”

Reflecting on his new role at the 23-acre site, Simon expressed appreciation for his colleagues: “I can’t thank the team at GWSL enough for all their support. They even trust me on a forklift truck, and that says a lot from the A-Team of warehousing and storage!”

The SaaSy People Expands into Reading to Bolster UK Presence

Business

News Desk

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10/01/2025

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The SaaSy People Expands into Reading to Bolster UK Presence

The SaaSy People, a leading provider of outsourced customer support and SaaS consultancy, has opened a new office in Reading, a thriving hub for technology and innovation. This strategic initiative demonstrates the company’s focus on delivering superior customer service, fostering innovation, and prioritising employee development. The new office is located at 2 Blagrave Street and will support the growth of the Reading-based team.

“2025 is set to be another record growth year for SaaSy, and we’re excited to be expanding our presence in Reading and our team in and around the city as part of that growth,” said Reece Couchman, CEO of The SaaSy People. “The new office will also provide us with the space we need to host events similar to those we hosted in Birmingham throughout 2024.”

Just steps away from Reading station and a short journey from London, the new space includes:

Capacity for Growth: Facilities to support team expansion and collaborative efforts.
Community Outreach: Areas for hosting events and engaging with clients and local businesses.
Employee-Centred Design: An inspiring environment that enhances productivity and well-being.

This development represents a pivotal moment for The SaaSy People as the company continues to establish itself as an industry leader.

Five arrested in Farnworth vehicle thefts clampdown

Crime

Helen Greaney

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09/01/2025

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Five arrested in Farnworth vehicle thefts clampdown

Bolton police carried out five warrants in Farnworth as part of an investigation into stolen work vans.

The investigation was aided by information provided by the public and proactive policing.

Five men between the ages of 20 and 45 were all arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles.

Officers also seized a quantity of drugs containing all classes of illicit substances and items they believed were used to steal vehicles.

Detective sergeant Matt Quayle said: “This morning’s warrants are the culmination of a thorough investigation by our Neighbourhood Crime Team.

“Most of us know someone who has been a victim of vehicle crime of some sort, and we understand how disruptive this type of crime can be, not just financially but also emotionally, and we are focussing our efforts to tackle those who blight communities.

“I’d like to thank the community for their support in reporting information to us means we can play a part in making local neighbourhoods safer and I urge the public to continue keeping this open line of communication with police about criminal activities or expressing their concerns through contacting us directly via live-chat, speaking to your local neighbourhood officer or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

“Every bit of information, no matter how small, contributes to our investigations across Greater Manchester and could support us in tackling vehicle crime at its root.”

More support mobilised for residents affected by New Year’s Day flooding

Community

Helen Greaney

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09/01/2025

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More support mobilised for residents affected by New Year’s Day flooding

Manchester City Council is mobilising additional support for local communities who were affected by flooding on New Year’s Day.

More than 1,000 people were forced to evacuate in the Didsbury and Harpurhey areas of Manchester due to exceptionally heavy rain causing the River Mersey to reach a 66-year high; as well as in the city centre itself where canals spilled over.

Although the flooding was not as severe as feared, there was disruption caused and people have still been unable to return to their homes and businesses.

From the outset of the flooding the council has worked with partners in the Environment Agency and the emergency services to coordinate recovery efforts and help get residents and businesses back to normality.

Council officers are this week visiting affected residents to share advice, information and guidance on steps to take after flooding. This includes information on proper disposal of contaminated household items, food and water safety and where to get second-hand furniture should they need it.

Residents are also being advised on how to contact their insurance company to start a claim soon as possible and allow the insurer to advise on next steps.

Council staff are also helping local businesses who have been affected – in particular in the Didsbury and Northenden areas – providing guidance to food and hospitality businesses on how to effectively clean their premises, proper clean up, and getting electricity restored after being cut during the flood. Work is also under way to clean up our parks and other public spaces which have been affected.

A key task has also been getting the highway network back up and running as there was a significant impact to it, in particular along Palatine Road. Debris has been cleared and work is ongoing to clean gullies of waste that was washed into the drain network. Staff will also prioritise repairs according to safety risk and will be deployed in those areas where the problems are worst.

The Environment Agency is working to implement repair plans and to assess damage to the riverbank, as there have been a number of breaches to the flood basin defence wall. As the water level continues to fall assessments will be made on how and when repairs can be made to our river defences.

Whilst most of the issues experienced were due to the intensity of the rainfall, investigations will take place where appropriate to understand how plans can be made for future severe weather events.

Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council said: “I would like to pass on my deep thanks to everyone who has helped in the response to the floods. We have seen incredible community spirit and a real coming together in flood affected areas.

“For those affected, this was not the start to 2025 they wanted, and I want to pay tribute to the resilience and bravery of the people who had to be evacuated. The stress and upset caused by such an event should never be underestimated, and we know it continues to be a distressing time for those affected. I want to reassure people that the Council is on hand to provide support and guidance to anyone who needs it.

“It is now our priority to get people back in their homes and business back on their feet as quickly as possible and we are working to make sure all affected residents can access the advice and support they need.

“The clean-up and recovery of our neighbourhoods is underway, and once that has been achieved, we will be convening the relevant agencies to see what more can be done in the future to try to prevent this scale of flooding and damage.”

Business leader’s 110-marathon challenge inspires climate action

Sustainability

Helen Greaney

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09/01/2025

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Business leader’s 110-marathon challenge inspires climate action

A Manchester business leader and founder of the Better Business Summit is set to embark on an extraordinary personal mission to tackle the climate crisis.

In autumn 2025, Hannah Cox (pictured) will run 110 marathons in 110 days along India’s historic 4,030km Inland Customs Line – a bold initiative aimed at raising £1 million for 1% for the Planet to support communities most affected by climate change.

Project Salt Run is deeply personal for Hannah, tracing her family heritage while shining a spotlight on individual responsibility in the fight against climate change.

“For me, this run is about stepping out of my comfort zone to create change. We can’t just rely on big businesses; every individual has a role to play in safeguarding our planet,” said Hannah.

“This run holds great personal meaning for me. Along the way, I’ll pass Fort William in Bengal, where my great-grandfather was married, and I’ll finish at my father’s childhood home in Calcutta. It’s a journey that connects my family’s history with my mission to create a better future for our planet.”

Hannah’s mission is part of the wider Better Business Summit, a flagship event championing action against climate change.

From January 15 – 17, Manchester will host thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers at the Summit, showcasing its commitment to sustainable events and positioning itself as a hub for global collaboration on climate issues.

This year’s theme, Future Proof, will explore how businesses and individuals can thrive while addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, with a particular focus on food, fashion and the future of business.

Confirmed speakers include senior management from companies including TOMS, Allplants, Swizzels, Co op Live and Patagonia.

Hannah said: “The Summit and the run share a common goal of empowering people to make a difference. Both demonstrate that by taking ownership of our impact, we can inspire collective action and create a sustainable future.

“We all have a role to play in combating climate change. We have a moral responsibility to future generations to act, using what we have, when we can. Whether it’s businesses embracing sustainable practices or individuals pushing themselves to take bold action, the path to a better future starts with personal responsibility.

“Manchester is the perfect home for the Better Business Summit, as it’s a city with a rich history of innovation, activism, and industry. Manchester’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to sustainability align perfectly with our mission to empower businesses to drive meaningful change.”

Manchester’s selection as the host city highlights its growing reputation as a hub for sustainable innovation and action. By gathering global brands, national businesses, and local leaders, the Summit reinforces Manchester’s position as a driving force in the movement toward systemic change.

The event will be held at Manchester Metropolitan University. Professor Hannah Holmes, Dean of the Business School and deputy pro-vice Chancellor, Faculty of Business and Law, said: “We’re delighted to be hosting the Better Business Summit. It’s a really inspiring, uplifting event and it’s fantastic to see so many entrepreneurs and innovative businesses coming together to explore ways to tackle climate change.

“Our students and research teams are committed to working across projects that seek to solve the environmental and societal challenges our world is facing, and collaboration is key to this journey.

“By sharing ideas, research expertise, and our technical facilities with the local community and businesses, we can address some of the urgent climate change issues collectively.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for founders and their teams to look at the ways sustainability can drive business growth. Whether it’s through green energy or carbon reduction, protecting biodiversity or creating a circular business model, there are many ways each business owner can make a positive impact on the planet – we’re looking forward to hearing the ideas that come out of this year’s conference and exploring how our students and researchers can help to make these happen.”

The Better Business Summit will take place 15-17^th in January 2025 in Manchester Metropolitan Business School, hosted by The Better

Business Network, an inclusive network for purpose-led business owners and leaders advocating for systematic change.