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RE:SCULPT founder shares top tips for growth with females in business

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RE:SCULPT fitness studio is going from strength to strength – and its founder is sharing top tips to help other female entrepreneurs achieve the same.

Five months on from launching the high-intensity reformer pilates-inspired venture on Chapel Street, founder Becky Barrett has created more new jobs.

The former ballerina and fitness instructor moved to Manchester from London after the pandemic and had a vision to set up RE:SCULPT from anticipating a post-pandemic fitness trend.

She expected to see people living and working around the central Manchester area looking for an exciting and invigorating way to set new fitness goals – and the uptake at her studio was unreal.

Prepare for every eventuality

Becky said: “One piece of advice I’d give to other women thinking of starting a business – you won’t be able to prepare for every eventuality – but do as much homework as you can for every area of your business so that when the proverbial ‘hits the fan’, as it will at times, you will be as ready as possible to deal with it, both in real terms and emotionally.

The 44-year-old founder went on to give some helpful tips for those hoping to give a new business a go.

“Know your market and trust your instincts. When things are tough or not going well, which will happen, don’t take the easy route and start to divert markets, because it won’t be the easy route in the long run. Instead, revisit how you’re going to target your current market.

“It’s really important to say ‘no’ and put ideas in the ‘no’ bucket. Everyone else always thinks they’re an expert on your business!

“And listen to all the podcasts, read all the books, take advice but you don’t have to use it all. A lot will inspire you, but much will be completely irrelevant….people do love to embellish their journey on a podcast interview!”

New recruits for RE:SCULPT reformer pilates studio

Eight bed boutique studio RE:SCULPT opened in April 2023 and has since recruited eight instructors with a further four in training.

Now Becky is looking to fill three additional front-of-house jobs as demand for the classes has been much higher than expected.

Becky added: “Extra classes have been added to the schedule as well as more staff to take those classes with more than 80% capacity since launch. We are the only reformer pilates studio in the North West that offers the ‘reformer+ beds’ that are the ‘largest in both length and heaviest in weight with the greatest resistance range so lots of people are coming to us.

“Workouts can be designed to be a much higher intensity to build fitness and strength through continuous muscle movements, while remaining low impact and controlled, targeting all the deep muscle fibres.”

Using reformer-inspired fitness to support an active lifestyle

“Since we’ve opened we’ve been able to support athletes from experienced runners to professional rugby players from the region who have recognised how resistance training and fitness combine in a controlled environment,” Becky said.

“Equally, if you do a lot of heavy weight training but don’t often combine it with resistance-based strength training, you will benefit from our high-intensity workouts to build fitness and flexibility in a controlled way.”

Hold true to the vision

“I’ve held true to the vision, determined to bring something intense, impactful and fun to everyone, at all levels of fitness,” added Becky.

“The beauty of what we offer is that workouts are fully immersive and of a higher intensity, making us the most advanced reformer pilates fitness class in Manchester.”

Opening offers for newcomers

A range of opening offers are available for ‘newbies’. Classes are suitable for all levels, with instructors offering variations within the exercises.

They’re not for the faint-hearted though, classes are challenging but extremely rewarding. For a full list of pricing and to book online, visit: www.resculptstudios.co.uk/#prices

Exploring the Rise of Real World Asset (RWA) Tokenization in the Crypto World: Is BNB.WIN the Future of Safe Investment?

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This year has seen a series of shifts in the global macroeconomic landscape coupled with evolving regulatory frameworks for virtual assets. Amidst this backdrop, the crypto world continues to evolve by offering new products that cater to the needs of users and the community. That’s where Real World Asset (RWA) tokenization came in as a new frontier and value capture channel within the crypto market.

As this wave gains momentum, native crypto DeFi protocols like MakerDAO and Aave are actively making moves to embrace RWA. The BNB.WIN ecosystem has recently introduced its first RWA product BNB.WIN.

After observing their performance over the past few weeks, the question on everyone’s mind is whether BNB.WIN and similar products are truly worthwhile?

Is BNB.WIN a safer choice?

According to bnb.win, BNB.WIN is the first rebasing RWA protocol on the BSC network. Users receive BNB as a receipt token upon staking BNB on the platform. It runs on the decentralized platform.

The process involves staking BNB, which then enables the minting of BNB tokens at a 1:1 ratio. Notably, these BNB tokens are pegged to real-world assets. Their associated smart contracts, known as BNB.WIN-RWA, distribute rewards to token holders via a rebase mechanism.

BNB.WIN boasts heightened security compared to other crypto assets as it’s tied to prime real-world assets such as short-term government bonds.

BNB backing is based on a reserve of real-world assets while BNB.WIN is tied directly to short-term government bond investments. If anything, BNB.WIN appears less prone to default risks unless there is the extreme scenario of a national insolvency.

What about the returns for BNB.WIN?

333% per year for BNB is the best rate for the entire crypto industry.

In terms of returns for BNB.WIN, BNB.WIN Founder Satoshi Aoki shared in a recent interview that BNB.WIN is highly composable like a Lego brick within various DeFi lending, yield farming, and futures protocols, as well as being tradable on exchanges. BNB.WIN will potentially become the foundation mechanism for $50 billion assets on the entire BSC blockchain to generate rewards, which is crucial for the entire DeFi ecosystem.

The yields users earn on subscribing to BNB.WIN products stem from investments in stable assets such as margins, loans, and bonds, as well as from staking rewards based on the Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanism and platform incentives. Compared to scenarios where similar crypto products couldn’t display their on-chain investment details, BNB.WIN significantly enhances fund transparency.

On August 28, 2023, BNB.WIN announced the latest Merkle tree asset proof data. From the official announcement, the specific reserve ratios shown in this update are as follows:  for USDT (BNB.WIN wallet balance: 122,404,586 USDT), for BNB (BNB.WIN wallet balance: 84,410 BNB).

BNB.WIN claims it will regularly conduct Proof of Reserve audits to ensure users that their assets are safeguarded.

In conclusion, RWA assets exemplified by BNB.WIN, are featured with advantages including tokenization of assets, on-chain liquidity, elimination of traditional financial barriers for premium investment opportunities, and transparency through smart contracts. In the future, they will become an integral part of the stablecoin asset-liability structure.

Stanislav Kondrashov’s Recent Publication Offers Insight into the Science and Significance of Dreams

Stanislav Kondrashov takes readers on a captivating journey into the enigmatic world of dreams in his recently published article titled “The Science Behind Dreams.” This enlightening piece delves into the scientific understanding of dreams and their profound impact on human cognition and emotional well-being.

According to Stanislav Kondrashov, the vibrant and often surreal dreams that many of us experience are most prominent during the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) phase of sleep. This phase, marked by heightened brain activity akin to wakefulness, serves multiple purposes, including memory consolidation and emotional processing.

The article elaborates on how dreams can be seen as a reflection of individuals’ inner worlds, revealing their anxieties, fears, and aspirations. They can act as therapeutic tools, enabling individuals to confront and navigate powerful emotions.

Emphasizing the vital role of dreams in memory formation, Stanislav Kondrashov explains how the dreaming brain facilitates the transition of memories from short-term to long-term storage. Furthermore, dreams are explored as a mechanism for generating innovative solutions by simulating diverse scenarios.

The article sheds light on recurring dreams, suggesting that such patterns, especially in adults, may signal unresolved issues that demand attention and resolution.

Lucid dreaming, where individuals are aware they are in a dream, is another intriguing topic discussed. According to Stanislav Kondrashov, this unique state of dreaming offers an opportunity for conscious exploration within the depths of the subconscious mind.

Kondrashov also underscores the potential risks associated with dream deprivation, highlighting that a consistent lack of REM sleep can have adverse effects on mental health, impacting cognitive functions and emotional responses.

The quest to unravel the mysteries of dreams has captivated generations, from Freud’s interpretations to modern neuroscientific approaches. While many aspects of dreams remain shrouded in mystery, Stanislav’s article underscores their invaluable insights into human cognition and emotional well-being.

This article serves as an informative and engaging guide for anyone curious about the wonders of dreams and their profound significance in our lives.

Readers can delve into the full article and explore accompanying videos through the following links:

The Science Behind Dreams By Stanislav Kondrashov VIDEO

The Science Behind Dreams By Stanislav Kondrashov ARTICLE

Future of Disposable Vapes Still Under Consultation, No Decisions Made Yet

Amid the media buzz regarding a potential ban on disposable vapes, it’s crucial to clarify that the current discussions revolve around a consultation process, and no definitive decisions have been reached concerning the future of disposable vapes.

John Dunne, Director General of the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA), emphasised:

“We welcome the idea of a consultation on disposables as it’s key that the industry gets the opportunity to highlight the benefits, and therefore continued need, for single-use vapes as a smoking cessation method.

“A ban is not the answer. Some 220 people die from smoking every day, 365 days a year. Disposables have proved to be highly effective in helping smokers quit their habits due to their ease of use, accessibility and low entry price points. They are one of the main reasons as to why the number of adult smokers in Great Britain have hit record lows for the last two years according to the Office for National Statistics.”

Phoenix 2 Retail has been working in close collaboration with brands and regulatory bodies, introducing Pre 2 Post Market Compliance testing and nationwide recycling solutions to safeguard the future of the vaping category within the FMCG sector.

Chris Kelly, CEO of Phoenix 2 Retail, stressed the inevitability of regulation in the industry and the importance of constructive engagement with government, regulators, and trade bodies to facilitate change without compromising the core mission of assisting adult smokers in transitioning away from combustible cigarettes.

Kelly added, “Advocating for licensing and stricter enforcement against illicit sellers and retailers serving minors is of paramount importance. As the founder of Phoenix 2 Retail and a member of the UKVIA team, we are committed to supporting our retailers, suppliers, and partners throughout this journey.”

Furthermore, Phoenix 2 Retail has entered a long-term partnership with Serve Legal, the leading provider of ID and compliance testing services in the UK and Ireland. This collaboration aims to prevent underage sales, enhance retailer education, and improve performance and compliance among retailers.

Source: https://www.ukvia.co.uk/statement-from-uk-vaping-industry-association-re-reported-government-consultation-on-disposable-vapes/

Leading Vape Wholesaler Spearheads Recycling Efforts for Single-Use Vapes in the UK

The improper disposal of disposable vapes has emerged as a pressing concern in the United Kingdom over the past year. Recent research conducted by the BBC reveals a shocking statistic: an alarming five million disposable vapes are discarded into the general waste every week, marking a significant fourfold increase compared to the previous year. Even more troubling, the study unveils that a mere 17% of vapers are correctly recycling their vape devices.

Recognising the gravity of the situation and the shared concerns of consumers and retailers alike, Phoenix 2 Retail, the UK’s fastest-growing vape supplier, is taking proactive measures to combat this issue.

Chris Kelly, CEO of Phoenix 2 Retail, emphasised, “We know everyone sees the colossal impact single-use vapes have on the environment, which is why we have been working on a 360-degree recycling solution for retailers for several months. Phoenix 2 Retail is set to roll out over 200 recycling units this month, followed by a further 5,000 units by the end of the year, subject to retailer agreements. We aim to reach all 15,000 retailers by the following year, ensuring at least one recycling unit per store. This step is part of our company’s ongoing efforts to tackle the issue of improper vape disposal”.

By providing easily accessible recycling units, Phoenix 2 Retail aims to encourage vapers to responsibly dispose of their single-use vapes. The company believes that by making recycling convenient, more vapers will be inclined to recycle their devices properly.

To ensure the proper disposal of collected vapes, Phoenix 2 Retail has partnered with a registered waste management company. The process is simple for retailers: once the recycling units are full, the waste management company collects them, replacing them with empty units. All vapes gathered through these units are recycled locally in the UK, ensuring eco-friendly disposal. This partnership with a registered waste management company underscores Phoenix 2 Retail’s commitment to responsible and sustainable vape disposal, reducing the environmental impact of non-biodegradable waste.

Phoenix 2 Retail’s initiative, in collaboration with a registered waste management company, exemplifies its dedication to its customers and the environment. It represents a significant stride towards raising awareness of the improper vape disposal issue and working towards a more sustainable future.

For further information about the Phoenix 2 Retail recycling rollout, please contact Jackie Reed, Head of Quality & Compliance, at [email protected].

UK Vehicle Owners’ Guide: Are GB/EU Number Plates Legal Post-Brexit?

During the summer season, VRM Swansea’s Plates4Less team noticed an increase in inquiries about the legality of the GB/EU flag on number plates of British registered vehicles traveling to the continent. The popular GB/EU Number Plate flag is no longer being sold in the UK, and people who still display these number plates do not automatically qualify to drive in Europe unless they include an additional identifier.

Antony Clark, a number plate expert at Plates4Less, explained, “With people going on holiday and realising that the old GB/EU plate no longer qualifies them to drive abroad, we’ve seen a rise in existing customers asking us if it’s still legal to use their number plates in the UK or worrying that they might fail their MoT.”

According to Antony Clark, it is not necessary to change your number plate; you just need to remove the GB/EU flag if your vehicle is staying in the UK. He clarified, “While we are no longer allowed to supply new number plates with the GB/EU flag, it is still perfectly legal to drive with these number plates in the UK.”

Strict rules and regulations govern UK number plates to ensure their road legality, including the font, spacing, and material. An illegal number plate can result in fines of up to £1000 and potential MoT failure.

In the UK, you can still order legal number plates with a flag decoration on the left-hand side. Flags that are currently allowed include the Union Jack, the Cross of Saint George, the Cross of Saint Andrew, and the Red Dragon of Wales.

“The UK number plate flag now works like the EU flag used to—it removes the need for an additional black and white UK sticker unless you are driving to Spain, Cyprus, or Malta. Despite this, people are much less interested in getting a UK flag,” Antony explained. “Before Brexit, 21% of our customers ordered an EU flag. However, in 2023, only 5% of customers ordered the UK flag. It seems that some people preferred the EU flag, not just because it made it easier to drive outside of the UK but because they liked the design of it.”

Antony also noted that owners of private number plates often opt for flags to show their political allegiances, even if they have no plans to drive abroad. “Some clients proudly and consciously opt for the newer UK flag, but others request the old EU plates to show their love for the EU,” Antony continued. “We’ve got to tell them that we can’t legally supply those any longer for use on the roads.”

To determine the requirements for driving abroad, motorists should always check the specific regulations of the country they are traveling to.

Profhilo Treatment: A Revolutionary Approach to Skin Rejuvenation – The Ultimate Guide to Ageless Beauty

Introduction

Welcome to the future of skincare—a future where the quest for ageless beauty is not just a pipe dream but a tangible reality. If you’ve been tirelessly searching for a treatment that offers more than just superficial results, you’ve come to the right place. The term “Profhilo treatment” may have crossed your radar, and if it hasn’t yet, prepare for a revelation that could change your skincare game forever. This groundbreaking treatment is taking the beauty and dermatology world by storm, and it’s high time you knew why.

In the labyrinth of skincare options, from Botox to fillers and from peels to laser treatments, Profhilo stands out like a beacon of innovation. It’s not just another quick fix that masks the signs of aging; it’s a scientifically-backed treatment that rejuvenates your skin from within. Imagine a treatment that hydrates your skin, boosts collagen and elastin production, and does all of this with minimal to no side effects. Sounds too good to be true? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a comprehensive journey exploring Profhilo treatment. We’ll delve into its origins, the science behind it, its myriad benefits, and much more. Whether you’re a skincare novice or a seasoned aficionado, this guide is designed to offer something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Profhilo and discover why it’s being hailed as the revolutionary approach to skin rejuvenation.

What is Profhilo Treatment?

Origin and Development: Profhilo is not just another name in the long list of skin treatments; it’s a game-changer. Originating in Italy, this treatment has quickly spread across the globe, thanks to its innovative approach to skin rejuvenation. Unlike traditional treatments that focus on the surface, Profhilo goes deeper—literally.

 

How It Differs from Other Treatments: You might be wondering, “How does Profhilo stand out from the sea of other treatments?” The answer lies in its unique formulation and method of action. Unlike Botox or fillers, Profhilo stimulates the skin to renew itself. It’s not about masking the problem; it’s about solving it from within.

The Science Behind Profhilo

Hyaluronic Acid: The Magic Ingredient: What’s the secret sauce in Profhilo? It’s hyaluronic acid, but not just any hyaluronic acid. This is ultra-pure, stabilized hyaluronic acid that works wonders on your skin.

 

Bioremodeling: What It Means: Bioremodeling is the buzzword associated with Profhilo, but what does it mean? In layman’s terms, it’s the process of restructuring the skin’s architecture from within. It’s like giving your skin a new foundation to build upon.

Benefits of Profhilo Treatment

Skin Hydration: One of the most immediate benefits you’ll notice is the intense hydration. Your skin will feel plumper, softer, and more radiant than ever.

 

Collagen and Elastin Production: Profhilo doesn’t just stop at hydration; it also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, the building blocks of youthful skin.

 

Minimal Side Effects: Worried about side effects? With Profhilo, they’re minimal to nonexistent. Most people experience slight redness or swelling, which subsides quickly.

The Profhilo Procedure

Pre-treatment Consultation: Before diving into the treatment, a thorough consultation is essential. Your skincare specialist will evaluate your skin’s needs and tailor the treatment accordingly.

 

During the Treatment: What can you expect during the treatment? It’s a relatively quick and painless procedure, usually completed within 30 minutes.

 

Post-treatment Care: Aftercare is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Profhilo. Your specialist will provide a detailed regimen to ensure optimal results.

Who Should Consider Profhilo?

Ideal Candidates: Profhilo is suitable for almost anyone looking to improve their skin’s texture and appearance. However, it’s particularly effective for those in their late 30s and above.

 

Who Should Avoid It: While Profhilo is generally safe, certain individuals, such as those with skin infections or allergies to hyaluronic acid, should avoid it.

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Cost and Availability

Price Range: The cost of Profhilo treatment varies depending on location and provider, but it’s generally considered a premium service.

 

Where to Get It: Profhilo is available at select dermatology clinics and skincare centers. Always opt for a reputable provider to ensure the best results.

 

Real-life Testimonials: Don’t just take our word for it; hear what real people have to say about their Profhilo experience. From dramatic transformations to subtle improvements, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

Conclusion

As we reach the end of this comprehensive guide, it’s clear that Profhilo treatment is not just another fleeting trend in the ever-evolving landscape of skincare. It’s a revolutionary milestone, a paradigm shift that is redefining our approach to skin rejuvenation and anti-aging. The treatment transcends the limitations of traditional skincare solutions, offering a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of skin aging rather than merely masking its symptoms. With its unique formulation of ultra-pure hyaluronic acid and its innovative bioremodeling technique, Profhilo is setting new standards in skincare science.

 

But beyond the science and the glowing testimonials, what truly sets Profhilo apart is its commitment to enhancing natural beauty. It doesn’t aim to change the way you look; it aims to make you the best version of yourself. It’s about feeling confident in your own skin, at any age. It’s about embracing the beauty of aging while having the tools to do it gracefully. And most importantly, it’s about empowering you to make informed choices about your skincare.

 

So, if you’re tired of temporary fixes and are looking for a long-lasting solution, Profhilo treatment could very well be the answer you’ve been searching for. Whether you’re just starting to notice the first signs of aging or are looking for a treatment that can offer more than just superficial results, Profhilo provides a versatile, effective, and safe option. Ageless beauty is no longer a lofty aspiration; with Profhilo, it’s a reality that’s well within your reach. Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey, and here’s to your journey towards ageless beauty with Profhilo treatment.

Major Expansion for AFA Insolvency

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Manchester-based firm AFA Insolvency is celebrating its exponential growth after securing a place in the top 5 insolvency practitioners in the UK.

At only 3 years old, the business, which is part of the larger AFA Group is located in contemporary offices in Universal Square, Manchester, has amassed over 3500 clients and following AFA Insolvency securing its best ever month, with almost 400 cases proceeding.

The company’s meteoric rise can be attributed to a number of factors. These include its very timely offering of debt solutions to individuals, at a time of economic hardship for many, its staunch commitment to customer service, shown by its industry leading 4.9 Trust Pilot Rating, and its substantial investment from AFA Group Founder & CEO Fiaz Ashraf, who has injected £2.5 million into AFA Insolvency in the past 3 years. These factors combined have allowed the business to scale up significantly and take market share in a mature market with many well-established practitioners.

AFA Insolvency specialises in helping people clear their unaffordable debt by repaying only what they can afford to their creditors over a fixed period of time.

Fiaz Ashraf explains: “We entered a very crowded and established industry, however we have invested heavily in our brand, and in recruiting the highest calibre employees, many of which are highly experienced insolvency professionals, and this investment is now being realised, as can be seen by our national positioning with the market.”

Daniel Hunt, MD of AFA Insolvency joined the business in its infancy 2.5 years ago, bringing with him considerable senior level experience in debt management. Daniel adds: “We have seen a major shift over the past few years, from people struggling to pay off their credit cards to individuals who are now not able to meet their gas and electric payments. Our specialist team has been the lifeline for the vast majority of our clients, reviewing their current debt situation and tailoring a practical, affordable and achievable debt solution to suit them and provide expert advice, enabling them to still enjoy life.”

For more information visit https://afainsolvency.co.uk/

MEDIA CONTACT:

Please contact Anthea Fosti or Melissa Chawner at Zeus PR

Tel: 01260 275372

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

Manchester tech firm reports 27% revenue boost and further investment

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Manchester-based tech firm Lavatech has reported a strong year-end financial performance, achieving revenue of £2.6m and a 27% boost in turnover on the back of its inCase app.

Lavatech launched the inCase app in 2013, securing a minority private equity investment of £1.5m in June 2020.

It is now targeting revenue of £3.25m for the 2023/24 financial year; growth of 25%.

Ambitious strategy

Its ambitious strategy includes further platform enhancements and new product launches, including a new payments tool allowing users to deposit funds on account for law firms. It is due to launch in Q3.

Its features allow law firms to improve speed of service, security and retention, demonstrated in the uptake of the app across the 2022/23 financial year. inCase secured 168,215 new users and recorded more than 5 million session logs across its platforms.

CEO and founder of Lavatech and the inCase platform, Sucheet Amin (pictured) is also senior partner and founder of award-winning PI firm Aequitas Legal and a former president of Manchester Law Society.

Strong financial performance

Sucheet said: “The last twelve months has been a very challenging period for business, so it’s fantastic to be able to report such a strong financial performance – we remain focused on innovation and product development, which underpins the continued take-up of the inCase app.

“We have an exciting growth strategy in place for the next year and look forward to announcing further product updates as we continue to expand the technology’s capabilities.”

Softwire to Develop Mobile Ticketing and Information App for Transport for Greater Manchester’s Bee Network

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Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has selected Softwire, a leading digital transformation consultancy, to develop the mobile ticketing and real-time journey information app for the Mayor’s Bee Network.

The Bee Network represents Greater Manchester’s vision for a high-volume, low-fare transport system, similar to London’s, aiming to revolutionize how people travel across the city region and support its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2038.

Softwire will be responsible for the design, development, and deployment of the app. The initial version of the app for the Bee Network is set to launch in time for the start of TfGM’s locally controlled bus services on September 24, 2023. This app will serve as the primary platform for passengers to purchase combined Bee AnyBus + Tram tickets, offering around 20 percent cost savings compared to separate standalone tickets.

Key features of the first Bee Network app version include:

  • Integration of Greater Manchester’s new bus and existing tram services in one platform.
  • Real-time departure information to assist passengers in planning their journeys.
  • Navigational aids indicating stops and stations on the Manchester transport network.
  • Capability to purchase retail tickets across the Manchester transport network.
  • In-app mobile tickets accessible directly from passengers’ mobile devices.

Following the app’s delivery, Softwire will collaborate with TfGM to provide knowledge transfer, enabling TfGM’s in-house teams to manage ongoing maintenance and future enhancements.

Helen Humble, Head of Ticketing at TfGM, stated, “Softwire has demonstrable expertise in this space, including around user-centric design, accessibility, and the ability to build apps that integrate seamlessly with a variety of services, all of which will be crucial here.”

Alex Wolff, Director of Public Sector & Transport at Softwire, expressed excitement about assisting TfGM in realizing its ambitious Bee Network vision. Wolff emphasized the importance of a seamless user experience in boosting public transport usage, underlining Softwire’s track record in developing travel industry apps that meet user expectations in terms of functionality, design, and performance.