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Chef’s academy celebrates inaugural student successes

Eight budding chefs have secured full-time positions on their dream career path thanks to a collaboration between Trafford College and the Manchester Hoteliers Association (MHA).

In direct response to challenges faced by the post-covid hospitality industry, the Chef’s Academy was launched.

The initiative aims to inspire emerging talent and revitalise the hospitality industry by linking young people with career opportunities.

The Chef Apprenticeship is a paid full-time job which equips the student with the necessary culinary knowledge and skills. The qualification is designed to completely immerse the student into the industry, encompassing practical experience, college education and industry exposure and is financially supported by the hotel itself.

The academy’s next intake will be December 2023 and, until then, various events will be held across the remainder of the year, including guest chef evenings, enrichment days and charity dinners at Greater Manchester colleges.

Motivating young learners

Lola Docherty, head of studies – Hospitality, Hair and Beauty at Trafford College, said: “We are looking to motivate young learners to see the potential of working in the hospitality sector. We are here to work with them to get the best results and be the chefs of tomorrow.”

Adrian Ellis, general manager of The Lowry and chair of the Manchester Hoteliers Association, added: “We have seen excellent progress in the Chef’s Academy initiative and it’s been fantastic to receive such positive feedback from the apprentices involved.

“Our aim, with the help of the city’s key hotel operators, is to see the hospitality industry thrive. We want to integrate younger talent into this sector and inspire them to start their career in hospitality.”

The Manchester Hoteliers’ Association (MHA) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and developing the city’s hospitality and tourism industry. Pictured are apprentices from it.

LawtechUK to host learning and networking event in Manchester

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LawtechUK will be hosting a free session for anyone interested in lawtech including start-up founders, legal professionals, investors, government representatives, students, or academics.

The event takes place at the Greater Manchester Digital Security Hub on November 1.

LawtechUK is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at spearheading the digital transformation of the legal sector in the United Kingdom, backed by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).  

Those attending the event will:

  • Gain valuable insights, including the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities within the Manchester lawtech ecosystem
  • Hear about the government’s efforts to support and nurture lawtech in the northwest
  • Learn about the visionary plan of LawtechUK and our work in legal technology
  • Network with other startups, industry leaders, and investors in the lawtech community

Fran Eccles-Bech, chief executive of Manchester Law Society said: “The Manchester lawtech landscape is thriving and even booming. With a rich legal heritage boasting 200 law firms and 10,000 legal professionals, alongside the bustling digital ecosystem of 7,000 businesses and 80,000 workers, Manchester has become the hotspot of lawtech innovation.

“We can see that Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing are all starting to converge, to shape a future where legal processes are automated, transactions are secure, and justice is accessible to everyone.”

Speakers will include Katie Atkinson who sits on the 12-strong LawtechUK Panel which was established in 2018 by the Secretary of State for Justice alongside Alex Herrity (Adidas), Eimear McCann (TrialView), Gerard P. Hodgkinson (The University of Manchester), Rachel Kenyon (The University of Manchester), Kerry Westland (Addleshaw Goddard) and Jonathan Patterson (DWF).

Katie Atkinson, LawtechUK Advisory Panel member, said: “This event will serve as an excellent opportunity for those in the north west to learn more about the thriving lawtech industry and network with like-minded people. I’m delighted to be sharing my perspective at the event and look forward to meeting attendees.”

For more information and to register, visit: https://lawtechuk.io/events/lawtechuk-in-manchester/

Morph Joins Gamma’s Crusade to Raise Awareness About the PSTN Switch-off in the UK

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In an exciting collaboration aimed at spreading the message of the imminent PSTN switch-off, the beloved Aardman character, Morph, is partnering with Gamma to ensure that businesses across the UK receive this crucial message loud and clear.

Gamma, having recently sponsored a Shakespearean-themed Morph statue titled “The Bard” in Morph’s Epic Art Adventure in London to support the Whizz Kidz charity, is extending its collaboration with the animated character into the realm of communications. You can Check out our landing page that hosts the film created in collaboration with Aardman here.

Thousands of businesses remain unaware and need your help!

A recent study commissioned by Gamma and conducted by CEBR has revealed a concerning statistic: 29% of UK businesses are still unaware of Openreach’s decision to discontinue traditional PSTN lines by December 2025. This lack of awareness poses a significant threat to business continuity, which is precisely why Gamma’s partnership with Morph is so crucial. It’s not just about informing; it’s about safeguarding the future of these businesses. Amplifying Morph’s message is essential to ensure that companies are well-prepared for this transition. The message is clear – businesses have options, but action is needed.

Moreover, the technology required to navigate this transition is readily available today. While addressing the switch may seem daunting to some businesses, embracing the change can offer immediate advantages. Adopting this new technology not only ensures readiness but also introduces features that can significantly enhance the experiences of both customers and employees.

Why Morph?

Morph, created over four decades ago by Peter Lord and David Sproxton, is one of Aardman’s most beloved and enduring characters. This clay character, known for his slapstick comedy and unique language, uses alternative methods to convey messages, perfectly reflecting the essence of the Big Switch-off campaign.

The Magic of Morph: Simplifying Complexity

Morph’s specialty lies in his ability to convey messages in an uncomplicated, relatable manner. His history, spanning over 40 years and including appearances in TV programs like “The Epic Adventures of Morph” available on Sky Kids, ensures that he resonates with multiple generations, especially business owners and decision-makers.

The collaboration received unanimous support from Aardman, with co-creator Peter Lord deeply involved in the creative process to ensure that the final product would be quintessentially Morph.

Will Studd, Director at Aardman, commented: “Gamma approached us with an exciting brief – To use Morph and Chas to help explain the big switch over of landline phones to new more versatile digital systems. Working together with Peter Lord, co-creator of Morph, and Chris Parker, author, and screenwriter, we created a fun, playful narrative that explains the concepts, and benefits of the switch, in a way that harks back to the golden age of kids TV.  Voiced by Derek Griffiths, staple of 1970’s and 80’s Children’s BBC, we created a memorable, authentic film that plays on Morph and Chas’ classic antagonistic relationship, to show how beneficial and easy the transition to digital is. Just like the show, Morph ends up on top, enjoying the full benefits of his digital communication. The film was a joy to create.”

Helen Owen, Head of Product Marketing and a fan of Morph, added: “Morph is the ideal, if not obvious, ambassador for the Big Switch-off. His appeal bridges multiple generations and his ability to simplify and bring humour to the everyday ensures that he cuts through the noise and capture audience’s attention.  We believe that raising awareness of this significant change within UK businesses is essential and are hoping that the partnership of Gamma and Morph will draw attention to a Big Switch-off which to date has gone largely unheralded.”

Behind the Scenes

Bringing Morph to life for this campaign was a meticulous process. The advert was divided into individual shots, sequenced for minimal disruptions and to maintain continuity. In a nostalgic touch, Peter Lord ensured the incorporation of some of Morph’s original set dressings, including specially crafted paint cans with their ‘Lord & Sprox’ brand.

A Smile for a Serious Cause

While the topic of the Big Switch-off might seem technical and mundane to many, Morph’s unique charm and antics are set to sprinkle it with humour and simplicity. This collaborative effort aims to break the noise barrier and address the knowledge gap surrounding this subject in the UK.

Gamma encourages audiences to take the time to view and share the campaign video, bringing attention to the vital message of the PSTN switch-off and its broader implications.

Maxwell and Zampa star as Australia thrash the Netherlands

Glenn Maxwell took centre stage as Australia enjoyed a record-breaking day against the Netherlands.

The man dubbed ‘The Big Show’ lived up to his billing by smashing a 40-ball century – the fastest in World Cup history – as Australia maintained their improvement following a slow start in India.

David Warner added 104 – his second ton in succession – as Pat Cummins’ men made 399 for eight from their 50 overs. Having taken a pasting in the field, the Netherlands suffered a similar fate with the bat as Adam Zampa’s four for eight helped bundle them out for just 90.

The 309-run margin of victory was the biggest at a World Cup and the second largest in ODI history.

Warner’s brilliant knock and useful contributions from Steve Smith (71) and Marnus Labuschagne (62) paved the way for Maxwell’s late onslaught. The all-rounder didn’t walk to the crease until the 40th over but by the time he left, with three balls of the innings remaining, he’d secured a place in the record books.

“It wasn’t something I set out to do,” he said, after hitting nine fours and eight sixes. “It was just the situation of the game and it was nice to get into some rhythm.”

Maxwell admitted the innings had given him some confidence after an indifferent spell.

“It’s a huge confidence booster knowing I’ve got that in my locker,” he added. “Doubts can creep in when you’re not scoring consistently but it was good to get this.”

Maxwell’s joy was in stark contrast to Netherlands bowler Bas de Leede, who conceded 115 runs in his 10 overs, the most in a men’s ODI.

The Netherlands’ reply never really got going with Vikramjit Singh top-scoring with just 25.

Mitch Marsh claimed two for 19 but the star was again spinner Zampa, who polished off the tail in spectacular fashion and is now the leading wicket-taker in the World Cup with 13.

“It was just about the complete game,” said Cummins, “I couldn’t be happier.

“We are starting to play to our potential and play in the style we talk about.”

Check out our other sports stories here:
https://www.businessmanchester.co.uk/category/sport/

Australia’s Glenn Maxwell hits fastest ever World Cup hundred

Glenn Maxwell smashed the fastest World Cup century in history against the Netherlands today, despite feeling “pretty cooked”.

He took just 40 balls to reach three figures and beat the record set by Aiden Markram earlier in the tournament.

Maxwell said: “It feels pretty good. I have been pretty cooked today, so I wasn’t expecting much, but it probably cleared my head a little bit to be able to go out there and play.

“I was just trying to get a read on the bowler because I felt like I had enough time to change and adapt. 

With the fastest World Cup century record being broken twice in one month, who is on the list of the top 10 players to hit the fastest World Cup century?

  1. Glenn Maxwell (AUS) – 106 runs – 40 balls – 25th October 2023
  2. Aiden Markram (SA) – 106 runs – 49 balls – 7th October 2023
  3. Kevin O’Brien (IRE) – 113 runs – 50 balls – 2nd March 2011
  4. Glenn Maxwell (AUS) – 102 runs – 51 balls – 8th March 2015
  5. AB de Villiers (SA) – 162 runs – 52 balls – 27th February 2015
  6. Eoin Morgan (ENG) – 101 runs – 57 balls – 18th June 2019
  7. Heinrich Klaasen (SA) – 109 runs – 61 balls – 21st October 2023
  8. Rohit Sharma (IND) – 131 runs – 63 balls – 11th October 2023
  9. Kusal Mendis (SL) – 122 runs – 65 balls – 10th October 2023
  10. Matthew Hayden (AUS) – 111 runs – 66 balls – 24th March 2007

Check out our other sports stories here:

https://www.businessmanchester.co.uk/category/sport/

Brooke tips Savea to star in All Blacks win

Former New Zealand number eight Zinzan Brooke has backed the All Blacks to win the Rugby World Cup on Saturday – and picked Ardie Savea as the key man to down South Africa.

New Zealand came into the tournament with some question marks surrounding key players but have got gradually better and their quarter-final performance in beating world number one team Ireland was one for the ages.

Ian Foster’s men were too strong for Argentina in the last four whereas the Springboks – having beaten tournament hosts France in the quarters – were a touch fortunate to come through a bruising clash with England.

Brooke told RugbyPass: ”South Africa have come the hard way [into the final] and will have to buck up their ideas and actually deliver or else the All Blacks will open them up and expose the Springboks’ deficiencies we saw in the semi-final against England.

“That win over Ireland – I don’t think I have ever seen an All Blacks side play that well. The clinical precision [to go 13-0 up] gave me the confidence they would do the job and the whole 23 needed a pat on the back for that performance.

“My gut is telling me the All Blacks will have confidence going into the final. Coming into the tournament, I had doubts because I didn’t see the consistency from the All Blacks but if I had seen them deliver the kind of rugby we saw in the Ireland quarter-final I would have said ‘these All Blacks mean business.’ They will keep it simple against the Springboks, be accurate and play at pace and with passion.”

Brooke has been hugely impressed with Savea and thinks he may make the difference at the Stade de France.

He added: “What Ardie possesses is power and an explosive ability to make ground with little runs which are vitally important. The three or four metres he makes puts the team on the front foot and he has a wonderful offloading ability. Ardie achieves that more than most and his mobility is fantastic.

“With his beautiful hands it means he can offload to a support runner even if he is under intense pressure.”

Strategic Acquisition: Fulmar Consulting Ltd Adds Tyler and Co to Its Portfolio

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Tyler and Co, a renowned name in the field of art claims consulting, has been acquired by Fulmar Consulting Ltd, a leading claims consulting firm. This strategic move aims to transform Tyler and Co into a modern, forward-looking specialist in the art, antiquities, and specie markets, under the leadership of Sandy Taylor, CEO of Fulmar Consulting Ltd.

Key Highlights:

  • Expanding Beyond Tradition: The acquisition paves the way for Tyler and Co to expand its services beyond traditional art claims work, broadening its expertise in the art, antiquities, and specie sectors.
  • Immediate Relaunch: Tyler and Co will undergo a relaunch with immediate effect, with the strong support and backing of Fulmar Consulting Ltd.
  • Leveraging 40 Years of Claims Experience: With over four decades of claims experience, Tyler and Co is set to utilize its extensive knowledge and expertise to establish itself as a prominent player in the sector.
  • Aiming for Sector Leadership: The objective of this acquisition is to position Tyler and Co firmly at the pinnacle of the art, antiquities, and specie markets.

Acquisition Details:

On October 24, 2023, Fulmar Consulting Ltd acquired Tyler and Co, marking a significant development in the claims industry. Established in 1897, Tyler and Co have earned a reputation for their excellence in art claims consulting, consistently delivering top-tier services with a strong focus on client satisfaction. This strategic partnership will enable Tyler and Co to tap into Fulmar Consulting’s extensive global network, enhancing the quality of services they offer to their clients.

Sandy Taylor, CEO of Fulmar Consulting, expressed enthusiasm about this acquisition, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Tyler and Co into the Fulmar Consulting family. This move signifies a major milestone for our company, allowing us to diversify our service portfolio and provide our clients with a broader and more specialized range of services. Tyler and Co’s esteemed reputation and long-standing heritage speak for themselves, and we look forward to this new chapter in Fulmar’s growth.”

Mark Dalrymple, the former owner of Tyler and Co, shared his excitement about the acquisition, saying, “I am delighted for Fulmar to take the reins of Tyler and Co and am excited to continue working with them to push the brand forward. Our shared values and commitment to unparalleled service make this partnership a great fit for both us and our clients.”

Tyler and Co will continue to operate under its existing brand name, with Mark Dalrymple serving as a consultant in an ongoing relationship with the company.

For further information about Tyler and Co and Fulmar Consulting, please visit their respective websites at www.tylerand.co and www.fulmar.net.

The Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 EV Chargers

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Navigating the world of electric vehicle (EV) charging can be intricate, especially with various charger types available. This article aims to delineate the distinctions between the Type 1 and Type 2 EV chargers, providing clarity for both current and prospective EV owners.

What is the role of EV chargers?

In the burgeoning world of electric vehicles (EVs), the charger acts as the crucial bridge between the electrical grid and the vehicle’s battery. Its primary function is to safely convert electrical energy from the grid to a form that the vehicle’s battery can store and utilize. Without a reliable and efficient charger, the transition to EVs would stall. Furthermore, the charger manages the power flow, ensuring the battery receives the right amount of energy at the right pace. This not only safeguards the battery’s health but also optimizes the charging time. In essence, the EV charger is to electric vehicles what the fuel pump is to gasoline-powered cars—vital for operation.

What is the Type 1 charger used for?

Type 1 chargers, predominantly found in North America and some parts of Asia, are designed for single-phase AC charging. This type of charger is will soon be associated with earlier models of electric vehicles as more and more brands adopt the NACS (North American Charging Standard)- the one which Tesla vehicles have been using since the beginning. As a general rule of thumb, when someone refers to a Type 1 EV charger, they are most likely discussing the connector type that fits into the car rather than the charging station’s hardware. The power of the station is usually measured in levels or kilowats. These chargers are predominantly utilized for home and public charging stations and support slower charging speeds compared to some of their counterparts.

Characteristics of Type 1 chargers

  • Connector design: Type 1 connectors have a round shape with a single gun-type configuration. They come with five pins: one for grounding, one for the pilot, and three for power.
  • Single-phase charging: Type 1 is strictly a single-phase connector, which means it draws power from a single electrical phase. This limits the charger’s speed, with most Type 1 chargers offering up to 7.4 kW of power (32 amps). Some more powerful Level 2 stations offer up to 11.5 kW (48 amps). 
  • Locking mechanism: To ensure safety and prevent disconnections during the charging process, Type 1 connectors are equipped with a locking mechanism. This mechanism secures the connector to the car until the charging session is completed or manually stopped.
  • Versatility: While not as universal as the Type 2 connector in terms of global usage, the Type 1 connector is compatible with a wide range of electric vehicles, especially in regions where it is standard.

What is the Type 2 charger used for?

The Type 2 charger, predominantly found in Europe and increasingly adopted across various parts of the globe, has become the de facto standard for electric vehicle charging in many regions. Unlike the Type 1 charger, which is limited to single-phase charging, the Type 2 charger supports both single-phase and three-phase charging (up to 22 kW). This flexibility allows it to offer faster charging speeds and makes it suitable for both home charging and public charging stations (hotels, parking lots, shopping centers and others).

Characteristics of Type 2 chargers

  • Connector design: The Type 2 (CCS2) connector boasts a flat pin design with two additional pins for DC charging, bringing the total to seven pins. This configuration gives it the flexibility to support both AC and DC fast charging (up to 350 kW).
  • Three-phase charging capability: With its three-phase charging support, Type 2 connectors can deliver power levels up to 22 kW, making it generally faster than typical Type 1 chargers.
  • Safety features: Type 2 chargers come with a built-in locking mechanism similar to Type 1 but also include added safety features like shutters to prevent direct touch access to live parts.
  • Compatibility: Type 2 connectors have a broader acceptance, especially in Europe, and are now being increasingly used in newer models of electric vehicles across different continents. Its universal appeal makes it a desirable choice for many public charging infrastructures.

Key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 chargers

  • Geographical dominance: While Type 1 is prevalent in North America and parts of Asia, Type 2 is dominant in Europe and is expanding its reach globally.
  • Charging capability: Type 1 chargers are designed for single-phase AC charging, typically offering up to 7.4 kW of power. In contrast, Type 2 chargers can support both single-phase and three-phase AC charging, with power levels reaching up to 22 kW.
  • Connector design: The Type 1 connector has a round, gun-type configuration with five pins, while the Type 2 connector is more rectangular with seven pins. Both connectors allow for fast DC charging, as they share the CCS protocol.
  • Compatibility and standardization: With European regulations leaning towards a unified charging solution, Type 2 has gained a more extensive acceptance as a universal charging standard, especially in public charging infrastructures.

Understanding these key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 can guide potential EV owners in making informed decisions regarding their charging infrastructure and ensuring that they have the right solutions in place for their specific needs.

Stanislav Kondrashov Unveils the Hidden Marvels of America’s Finest Parks

In his latest online publication titled “The Gems of America’s National Parks By Stanislav Kondrashov,” the author delves into the captivating realm of American national parks, perennial magnets for millions of global visitors. These parks have earned their reputation for their extraordinary natural beauty, captivating the senses of all who set eyes upon them.

Kondrashov likens these natural parks to intricate tapestries, each boasting an unparalleled degree of beauty. His focus, however, is on the pristine paradises concealed within these expansive parks, often overlooked in favor of more popular or well-trodden routes. According to the author, beyond the customary postcard-perfect vistas, lie hidden treasures eagerly waiting to be discovered and explored.

Kondrashov’s narrative commences with Yosemite National Park, nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. While many flock to the famous El Capitan, the author highlights the existence of another facet of the park—a realm of tranquil beauty exemplified by the serene Mirror Lake, which mirrors the majestic granite boulders that envelop it.

The spotlight then shifts to Bryce Canyon National Park, renowned for its mesmerising hues of orange, pink, and vermilion, continually captivating throngs of visitors. Within the Fairyland Loop, Kondrashov unveils the breathtaking natural sculptures that grace the landscape.

Further exploration leads to Utah’s Arches National Park, a desert expanse home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, including the renowned Delicate Arch and Double O Arch. These geological wonders emerge in their full splendor amidst the rugged terrain.

Kondrashov’s publication also celebrates Acadia National Park, hailed as a marvel of the northeast. Among its treasures is Jordan Pond, offering a serene respite beside crystal-clear waters, flanked by the imposing Bubbles Mountains.

For a comprehensive understanding of Kondrashov’s revelations, we invite readers to peruse the full publication and watch the video on his website.

Harry Maguire and Andre Onana secure Champions League victory for Manchester United

Manchester United snatched a 1-0 victory over FC Copenhagen thanks to a goal from Harry Maguire and a late penalty save from Andre Onana in what manager Erik ten Hag labelled “showing personality”.

Onana has had a rough start to his United career since signing in the summer from Inter, with his manager standing by him to improve. In what was an already emotional night at Old Trafford as those who attended paid tribute to the late Sir Bobby Charlton, Ten Hag praised his goalkeeper for the performance he knew he had in him all along.

He said: “He showed personality.

“He knows the levels and what his skills are, and he hadn’t matched his skills and could do better.

“It was a very good performance on Saturday and tonight. He is a very good penalty saver.”

Also contributing to the victory was Maguire; after being subject to much criticism in recent times and struggling to maintain his place in the team, the defender started his third successive game for the first time since Ten Hag came in. 

Scoring what was to be the only and winning goal of the tie, Maguire’s header in the 72nd minute hit the back of the net, much to the joy of the fans. With a solid performance at the back too, his manager was happy with the performance he saw.

“He is playing much more proactively in possession, stepping in, passing vertical and defending on the front foot, very confident in the duels. 

“I think he is dominating his opponents. It was a very good goal from him, a great pass from Christian, but a very good finish.”