Oldham woman hailed at Creme de la Creme Business Awards
Five talking points as the Premier League returns this weekend
The Premier League returns this weekend following the final international break of 2023. There are some mouthwatering games – most notably Manchester City v Liverpool and Everton v Manchester United – to look forward to.
Away from the matches that see Manchester and Merseyside go head to head, there are some other compelling storylines to ponder ahead of matchday 13 in the Premier League.
Here are five…
Goal-shy Burnley need someone to shine
Burnley blazed a trail through the Championship last season, scoring 87 goals on their way to winning the title with 101 points.
It’s been a very different tale this season, however, with Vincent Kompany’s expansive football providing more chances for the opposition than his own team.
The Clarets have managed just nine goals so far and sit rooted to the foot of the Premier League table with four points and seemingly destined for a swift return to the second tier.
Everton’s 10-point penalty has seen the Merseysiders dragged into the mire, but Burnley cannot rely on others if they wish to get out of trouble.
Their cause is not helped by leading scorer Lyle Foster taking an indefinite break from the game to receive treatment for mental health issues. The South African has three league goals this season but, without him, Burnley need someone else to step up, starting this weekend against West Ham.
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Wolves wary of not-so-deadly duo
Burnley’s attacking woes have been replicated by Fulham. Marco Silva’s men have managed just 10 league goals this season, a record that means they are struggling to repeat last term’s enterprising football.
Two of their under-performers will need no introduction to the Wolves followers at Craven Cottage. Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore both starred for the Black Country club before making the move to the banks of the Thames. Jimenez was never prolific at Molineux although a record of 40 goals in 135 games in all competitions is not too shabby. He would certainly relish that sort of return at the minute given he has just one goal to his name this season.
If Jimenez is struggling, Traore is faring even worse. The one-time Barcelona winger has accumulated just 40 minutes of league action in four appearances off the bench.
Wolves under Gary O’Neill have shown plenty of resilience this season and their former duo ought not to cause any sleepless nights but reunions can throw up some unpleasant surprises…
3️⃣1️⃣ – No one has completed more dribbles in the @PREMIERLEAGUE this season than Matheus Cunha.
🇧🇷💨 PIC.TWITTER.COM/FNM3I9WIB1
— Wolves (@Wolves) NOVEMBER 22, 2023
Chance for Spurs to show top-four credentials
The post-Harry Kane era started off with a bang at Tottenham with some fans even talking of a title tilt under the impressive Ange Postecoglou.
A 10-game unbeaten start came crashing down against Chelsea but the chaotic nature of that 4-1 home defeat – the two red cards, the numerous VAR reviews and Chelsea’s late goal burst – meant Spurs were cut some slack. The careless 2-1 defeat at Wolves, with the home side scoring twice in injury time, felt altogether a lot more ‘Spursey’.
Postecoglou would not have picked an upwardly mobile Aston Villa as their next opponents but it gives them the perfect chance to get back on track and, while Tottenham are not (and never were) title contenders, a Champions League finish is a realistic target. Beating Villa will show they mean business.
Ramsdale to return – for now
Much has been said and written about Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s decision to drop Aaron Ramsdale for David Raya. And just when you think it’s calmed down, Ramsdale’s dad goes on a podcast and it all starts again!
Ramsdale will be in goal – his first Premier League start since September 3 – when Arsenal visit Brentford on Saturday with Raya prevented from playing against his parent club. The former Bournemouth and Sheffield United man will get the chance he craves to impress and give Arteta a selection headache.
Providing he plays well, all eyes will be on the Gunners boss when Lens visit the Emirates in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Brighton hoping to emerge from the forest in Nottingham
Rewind two months and Brighton had just beaten Bournemouth 3-1 to register third Premier League win on the trot following impressive victories against Newcastle and Manchester United, Roberto De Zerbi was being talked about as the next Real Madrid boss and everything in the Seagulls’ garden was rosy.
Since that point, De Zerbi’s men have continued to excel in Europe with back-to-back Europa League wins over Ajax, but their league form has nosedived.
A 6-1 pasting at Aston Villa started the trend and was followed by home draws against Liverpool, Fulham and Sheffield United, a defeat at Manchester City and another draw at Everton.
It’s most certainly not a crisis but Brighton will look at Saturday’s trip to Nottingham Forest as a chance to get back on track.
Hamilton ‘reached out’ to Red Bull about joining forces with Verstappen, claims Horner
Lewis Hamilton’s representatives “reached out” to Red Bull to explore a shock move to the team before he extended his contract with Mercedes earlier this year, Christian Horner has claimed.
Hamilton’s future with Mercedes – and in Formula One in general – was seen as being in doubt before he signed a two-year contract extension in August.
The seven-time world champion has endured a difficult two years since losing his title to Max Verstappen in controversial circumstances at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, while Red Bull have gone from strength to strength.
Red Bull have won 20 of 21 races this year, with only Carlos Sainz’s triumph at the Singapore Grand Prix denying them a shot at a perfect season. Hamilton, meanwhile, has repeatedly expressed his frustrations with Mercedes’ last two cars and has only managed six podium finishes in 2023.
Red Bull team principal Horner has now revealed the team held tentative talks with Hamilton earlier this year, but claimed they were reluctant to pair him with his long-time rival Verstappen.
“We have had several conversations over the years about Lewis joining,” Horner said in an interview with the Daily Mail.
“They have reached out a few times. Most recently, earlier in the year, there was an enquiry about whether there would be any interest.
“But I can’t see Max and Lewis working out together. The dynamic wouldn’t be right. We are 100 per cent happy with what we have.”
End of season mode 🎉 PIC.TWITTER.COM/RROXMJJRJ3
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) NOVEMBER 22, 2023
Red Bull were not the only team presented with the opportunity to sign Hamilton, according to Horner, with more serious talks taking place between the 38-year-old and Ferrari.
“He met [Ferrari chairman] John Elkann, too. I think there were serious talks,” he added.
“It was around Monaco. There were definitely conversations, perhaps with [Ferrari team principal Frederic] Vasseur, too, but certainly with Elkann.”
Hamilton has one last chance to avoid back-to-back winless seasons when the 2023 campaign wraps up in Abu Dhabi this weekend, having already secured third place in the drivers’ championship.
Check out our other sport news stories here.
Rave Coffee’s Black Friday Extravaganza: Unbeatable Deals for Coffee Enthusiasts
Rave Coffee, the UK’s award-winning coffee roaster, is celebrating Black Friday with incredible deals on a selection of their most cherished coffee blends and single origins, perfect for the holiday season.
Starting November 24th, Rave Coffee, celebrated for its ethical bean sourcing and small-batch roasting, is offering discounted prices on a range of coffee selections, tailor-made for true coffee lovers.
Located in Cirencester, Rave Coffee is committed to ethically sourcing the highest quality coffee from around the globe. Their expert team meticulously selects beans to ensure a rich and robust flavour profile for each batch.
Moreover, Rave Coffee proudly supports environmental initiatives through their partnership with One Tree Planted, contributing 1% of all sales as part of the 1% for the Planet initiative, supporting global reforestation efforts.
This Black Friday, customers can indulge in Rave Coffee’s offerings knowing they are supporting both outstanding coffee production and environmental efforts. Featured in Rave’s Black Friday sale are:
- Rave’s Signature Blend No. 1, a medium-dark roast blend with notes of chocolate, caramel, and almond, perfect for black coffee or with milk.
- The Best Selling Coffee Bundle, featuring the top three Rave blends: Signature Blend No. 1, Colombia El Carmen, and the robust Italian Job espresso blend, catering to all coffee preferences.
- Rave’s Fudge Blend No. 5, offering a delicious fudge flavour, especially in a flat white or cappuccino.
- Rave’s Colombia El Carmen, a best-selling single origin, known for its chocolate, caramel, and red fruit tones.
- The Italian Job blend, a rich, dark roast ideal for a bold espresso. Rave Coffee’s beans are superbly complemented by quality brewing equipment, also available this Black Friday. The WACACO portable espresso maker is perfect for making espresso with Rave’s dark roasts, and the AeroPress coffee maker is excellent for creating smooth, full-bodied coffee with Rave’s lighter roasts.
“Black Friday presents the perfect opportunity to offer our loyal customers special savings on our expertly sourced and roasted coffee blends and single origins,” shares Vikki Hodge, co-founder of Rave Coffee.
Explore the Black Friday discounts on Rave’s award-winning coffee range at ravecoffee.co.uk, with offerings including gift sets, subscriptions, brewing accessories, and more starting November 24th, plus free UK shipping on eligible orders.
2023 Automotive Industry Awards: Honouring Leaders of Innovation and Excellence
Business Awards UK proudly announces the recipients of the 2023 Automotive Industry Awards, celebrating exceptional companies driving progress in the automotive sector with their dedication, pioneering innovations, and outstanding services.
2023 Automotive Industry Awards Winners
● G.S Car Valeting & Detailing Services – Best Mobile Valeting Service
● Auto Reflect Detailing – Best Car Detailing Service
● DriveDen – Leading Automotive E-commerce Platform
● Akeno Ltd – Best New Automotive Technology Implementation
● JT LEDs – Exceptional Automotive Interior Restoration
2023 Automotive Industry Awards Finalists
● G.S Car Valeting & Detailing Services – Premier Car Valeting Service, Exceptional Automotive Interior Restoration
● Sparkle and Shine Valeting and Detailing Ltd – Best Car Detailing Service, Premier Car Valeting Service
● Auto Reflect Detailing – Best Mobile Valeting Service
The 2023 Automotive Industry Awards have celebrated a cadre of winners who have set remarkable standards of quality and innovation in the car industry. G.S Car Valeting & Detailing Services has distinguished itself with its unmatched mobile valeting service, while Auto Reflect Detailing has been lauded for its exceptional car detailing expertise. DriveDen’s position as a leading automotive e-commerce platform and Akeno Ltd’s innovative approach to new automotive technology implementation have significantly contributed to the sector’s advancement. The achievements of the finalists reflect their vital role in propelling the automotive industry to new heights of excellence and creativity.
First UK Licensed Bodies for Cyber Security Chartership Announced by The Cyber Scheme and CIISec
The Cyber Scheme, together with The Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec), is excited to reveal their new status as the inaugural Licensed Bodies for Cyber Security Chartership in the UK.
This follows the UK Cyber Security Council’s acquisition of a Royal Charter in 2022, granting them the authority to issue such licenses, aimed at professionalising the cybersecurity field.
The Cyber Scheme is now empowered to evaluate and recommend individuals for Chartership in the Security Testing domain. Additionally, they are in the process of developing the Incident Response specialism for Chartered and Principal levels.
CIISec is now capable of assessing and endorsing individuals for Chartership at Chartered, Principal, and Associate levels in three areas: Secure System Architecture and Design, Cyber Security Governance and Risk Management, and Cyber Security Audit and Assurance.
These roles were secured after conducting successful pilot programmes, in collaboration with The Council and industry stakeholders. These pilots tested various aspects, including the application and assessment of individuals at different Chartership levels, encompassing examination, moderation, and appeals.
The Cyber Scheme’s CEO Charles White says: “We’re pleased to announce that we have become a Licenced Body for the UK Cyber Security Council. The professionalisation of the industry is well overdue, especially as we look to counter the growing threat of cybercrime. A chartered organisation which reflects an individual’s experience, skills, and knowledge is critical for UK Plc growth and crucial for those employing such skills.”
“I’m also delighted to be able to announce our appointment alongside CIISec who have also become a Licenced Body, a close working partner of The Cyber Scheme and a voice for the industry as a whole.”
CIISec CEO Amanda Finch remarks: “The Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec) is so pleased to be one of the first Licensed Bodies for the UK Cyber Security Council alongside The Cyber Scheme. We have already welcomed through many newly-chartered individuals to the industry, and look forward to chartering many more to come.”
Annmarie Dann, the UK Cyber Security Council’s Director of Professional Standards, says: “’We are delighted to be working in partnership with CIISec and The Cyber Scheme as we officially open for applications. This comes after our much-anticipated awards ceremony to celebrate the first 100 individuals who have obtained a Professional Registration Title through the Council. We are excited to see many more practitioners complete the process and flourish within the sector. By working closely with the Council and our Licensed Bodies you can be a part of cyber security’s future”.
Application submissions for Chartership are now being accepted by both The Cyber Scheme and CIISec. The organisations will soon publish application forms and supporting guidance for experienced cyber security industry members to start their Chartered journey. For additional information, please email [email protected] or [email protected].
The evolution of programmatic advertising in the digital age
Have you ever wondered how those online ads seem to know exactly what you’ve been thinking about buying? Welcome to the world of programmatic advertising, a digital marvel that’s reshaping how ads reach us.
At its core, programmatic advertising is the automated buying and selling of online ad space, using sophisticated algorithms and data analytics to target specific audiences with incredible precision.
The birth and rise of programmatic advertising
It all started in the early 2000s, a time when the internet was just stretching its wings. Advertisers were looking for a smarter, more efficient way to utilise the burgeoning digital space.
Key components of programmatic advertising
Programmatic advertising is built on several foundational elements that work in tandem to optimise the advertising process. These include:
- Automated Bidding: The use of algorithms to automate the buying of ad space, ensuring efficiency and speed.
- Real-Time Data: Leveraging up-to-the-minute data for making informed decisions about ad placements.
- Audience Targeting: Utilising data analytics to identify and target specific audience segments with tailored ads.
The early days of programmatic advertising
The initial concept and implementation
In the early days, programmatic advertising was a rough diamond. The idea was there, but the technology needed to catch up. Advertisers and tech companies alike were on a learning curve, experimenting and innovating to see what worked.
Challenges and limitations in the early stages
Like any new technology, programmatic advertising had its teething problems. Issues with transparency, ad fraud, and limited targeting capabilities were just some of the hurdles that needed to be overcome.
Key players and pioneering technologies
Despite these challenges, pioneers in the field pushed forward. Companies like Google and Facebook began to develop platforms that would set the standard for programmatic advertising.
The technological revolution and its impact
The role of big data and AI
The evolution of technology has been a catalyst for transformation in programmatic advertising, particularly with the advent of big data and artificial intelligence (AI). This integration marked a significant shift in how advertising operates.
Big data allows for the aggregation and analysis of vast datasets, enabling advertisers to understand consumer behaviour patterns at an unprecedented scale. AI, on the other hand, leverages this data to make intelligent decisions about which ads to show to which users. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies that utilise AI in advertising can see up to a 15% increase in revenue.
Predictive analytics and targeting
Predictive analytics in programmatic advertising harnesses the power of AI to forecast consumer behaviour based on historical data. This approach enables advertisers to anticipate needs and preferences, often before consumers themselves are aware of them.
For instance, a study published in the Journal of Marketing Research demonstrated how predictive analytics could increase click-through rates by analysing past consumer behaviour to anticipate future interests.
- Real-Time Bidding (RTB) and Automation
Real-Time Bidding (RTB) revolutionised by introducing a system where ad inventory is bought and sold on a per-impression basis, using automated auctions. This process, often completed within milliseconds, allows for dynamic pricing and more efficient ad placement. A report by eMarketer highlighted that RTB accounts for a significant portion of digital ad spending, indicating its critical role in the advertising ecosystem.
- Mobile Advertising and Social Media Integration
The proliferation of smartphones and the ubiquity of social media have opened new avenues for programmatic advertising. Mobile advertising, in particular, has seen exponential growth. According to Statista, global mobile ad spending is projected to surpass $240 billion by 2022. This growth is fuelled by the ability to leverage location data for more contextually relevant advertising, as well as the integration of social media platforms which offer a wealth of user data for targeted advertising.
Privacy concerns and data protection regulations
The advancements in programmatic advertising also brought to the forefront the issue of user privacy and data protection. The implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU is a prime example of a regulatory response to these concerns. GDPR imposes strict guidelines on how personal data is collected, stored, and used, ensuring user privacy is respected.
Compliance with such regulations is not just a legal obligation but also a trust-building measure with consumers, as noted in a report by the International Association of Privacy Professionals.
Current trends and innovations in programmatic advertising
Multi-channel strategies
Programmatic advertising is evolving beyond the digital space, embracing a multi-channel approach. This strategy integrates online and offline advertising, ensuring a consistent brand experience across various platforms. It reflects the diverse media consumption habits of today’s consumers and allows for more comprehensive data analysis and targeted messaging.
Voice and visual search advertising
Voice and visual search technologies are revolutionising advertising. Voice search, through smart speakers and assistants, offers personalised ad experiences based on verbal queries. Visual search allows consumers to find products and receive ads using images, making the shopping experience more intuitive and visually driven.
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in advertising
AR and VR are transcending their gaming roots to become vital tools in advertising. AR enhances the shopping experience by letting consumers visualise products in their own space, while VR creates immersive brand experiences. Both technologies are effective in creating engaging, memorable interactions that strengthen the consumer-brand connection
The future of programmatic advertising
Predictions and emerging technologies
So, what’s next for programmatic advertising? We’re looking at even more personalized, immersive experiences, perhaps even ads that can adapt in real time to our reactions.
The role of 5G and the internet of things (IoT)
With the advent of 5G and the expansion of IoT, the possibilities for programmatic advertising are boundless. Faster internet speeds and interconnected devices could take targeting and personalization to levels we’ve never seen before.
Ethical considerations and consumer expectations
As we move forward, the balance between effective advertising and ethical considerations will be crucial. Advertisers will need to navigate consumer expectations around privacy and personalisation with care.
Conclusion
Programmatic advertising has undergone significant evolution and continues to do so. This dynamic field is consistently adapting to emerging technologies and shifts in consumer behaviour.
For professionals in this arena, being well-informed and flexible is crucial. The digital advertising landscape is evolving at a rapid pace, making it essential to stay ahead of current trends to remain relevant.
Looking ahead, it’s evident that this form of advertising will maintain its prominence in the digital realm. Its capacity for innovation and adaptation positions it as a fascinating area for growth and development. Stay alert – the next major breakthrough in this sector could be just around the bend!
‘We can’t fix your leaky defence’ – Manchester United trolled by Checkatrade
Checkatrade have trolled Manchester United with a cheeky advertising billboard near Old Trafford.
The advert claims Checkatrade, who specialise in finding reliable tradespeople, can fix a leaky roof at United’s home ground but not their leaky defence, adding “there are some things that even Checkatrade can’t fix”.
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The state of Old Trafford has hit the headlines in recent weeks with the likes of Gary Neville using it as a metaphor to demonstrate how the Glazers have treated the club since taking over in 2005.
United under Erik ten Hag may have their issues but a poor defensive record is not one. They have conceded 16 goals in 12 games, the joint-sixth best in the Premier League.
Checkatrade has placed this Advertisement Board right next to Old Trafford…
😭😭😭 PIC.TWITTER.COM/J6LDLOBR6N
— george (@StokeyyG2) NOVEMBER 22, 2023
How effective construction site delivery management benefits the local area
To keep busy construction sites moving at a reasonable pace, deliveries need to be arranged and dropped off to ensure the project has the tools and materials it needs to meet set deadlines and come in under budget.
However, with so many deliveries seemingly happening constantly, these vehicles can become an annoyance to people in the local area. This is especially true if the nearby area is highly populated – like a city centre or bustling town.
But with the right delivery management tools, sites can enjoy seamless deliveries that arrive regularly and on time, while causing as little disruption to those nearby as possible.
With this in mind, here are just a few benefits that adopting proper site delivery management will bring to the local area.
The relationship between the nearby area and proper delivery management
No bottlenecks at the entrance of the site
Depending on the positioning or size of a site, there may only be one or two entrances where delivery vehicles can drop off goods.
If these entrances are found close to main roads, or roads that experience a lot of rush hour traffic, school traffic, or walking pedestrians, they can become annoying for local people and motorists. Additionally, they also present a serious safety hazard if more than one delivery vehicle arrives at once, creating a bottleneck that spills out into passing traffic or people.
Staggering deliveries is a good way to solve this problem, allowing companies to time deliveries as accurately as possible – taking into account things like unloading time and stock checks – before the next delivery is due to arrive. With effective delivery management software, each delivery can be allocated an individual time slot, preventing backlogs at the entrance and potentially dangerous situations
Less noise
Construction sites are naturally noisy as it is, with powerful tools being operated at all hours of the day. This noise always proves to be a grievance to some in the local area, but there isn’t much that can be done about it if the job is to be completed quickly and safely.
Another noise-causing element of a construction job is the large wagons or vans making deliveries. Because of their sheer size, and the size and weight of their cargo, these vehicles often need to be much larger than average and thus create more noise as they enter and exit.
However, with delivery management software, companies can accurately keep track of the materials they need and potentially consolidate them into fewer deliveries, resulting in less noise caused by the vehicles.
Greater peace of mind for parents if schools are nearby
Nobody gets to pick and choose where construction sites crop up – they go where the work needs to be done. If that work falls close to a primary school, secondary school or nursery, this could present serious safety worries on the part of concerned parents.
Not only because construction sites use dangerous tools and materials daily – and some children may feel inclined to sneak onto the premises as a joke or a dare – but also because of the number of vehicles arriving and leaving every day. Not just because of the delays in traffic – but the risk of a child being struck by a vehicle, seemingly out of nowhere.
Thankfully, construction companies can significantly limit the chances of these delivery vehicles being involved in a collision with a child by timing deliveries to only take place while the children are in school – usually between the hours of 9 am and 3 pm.
This doesn’t just lower the risk of an accident involving a local school child, but would also alleviate potential traffic during some of the busiest hours on the roads.
Jobs completed faster
Deliveries that turn up late – or don’t turn up at all – can have dire consequences on the productivity of any business. But for the construction industry, even one missed order could end up costing thousands in lost work.
Delivery management software helps avoid instances like these by offering both the user and those making the delivery set times for when the delivery should be made. So instead of a delivery arriving late in the day, limiting the hours the site has to complete important work, the delivery could be timed to arrive earlier in the day, so site staff can fully utilise the materials and make the most of the hours they have during that day.
By taking active notes of stock and timing deliveries precisely when materials will be needed, jobs can enjoy greater productivity and be completed on time and, sometimes, under budget. The quicker jobs are completed, the less of an inconvenience they will be to those in the local area.
Delivery management tools can be a difference maker to the local community
By taking advantage of modern, digital delivery management tools, construction companies can help keep the relationship with people in the local community as steady and positive as possible. While the presence of a construction site may be of annoyance, by taking their situation and expectations into account, companies can use digital delivery management to help make the process a more relaxed and safer one for all.