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Meet the officers tackling retail crime at the Arndale Centre

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A new retail crime team has been set up in Manchester city centre.

Forty Greater Manchester Police student officers are based at the Arndale Shopping Centre.

As a dedicated team, they have provided visible reassurance to businesses and increased the response rate to retail crime incidents.

So far, the shopping centre has seen an increase in arrests and stop searches, and the officers have been able to assist with other operations.

Chief inspector Stephen Wiggins said: “Our retail crime team addresses the challenges of retail crime and economic growth in Manchester.

“The team specifically targets the Arndale Centre which is our key demand area but also provides invaluable hands-on experience for student officers. From the outset of their careers, these officers are engaged in quality investigations and the development of advanced problem-solving skills.

“The operation is a really good way for new officers to get some experience in taking a job from start to finish, increasing their confidence when it comes to file work and responding to incidents in a busy city centre environment.

“This practical experience is designed to enhance their capabilities and prepare them for their career in GMP. The responses from the public and staff have been very positive and the team are going from strength to strength.”

The student officers are working under the guidance of more experienced officers. They will learn, develop and become proficient in key skills including intelligence submission and development, interviewing people, file completion and effective problem-solving with key partners including Antisocial Behaviour Action Team, Cityco and out of court disposals.

The team has concentrated their efforts on the top 10 prolific offenders known to target the Arndale Centre.

Officers tend to deal with shoplifting offences, antisocial behaviour, stop searches and giving crime prevention advice.

The Arndale Centre has experienced a six per cent reduction in burglary compared with last year. Overall, officers have made 182 arrests in four months, have seen a reduction of 46% in ASB-reported incidents and 22% reduction in retail crime.

PC Siobhan Smith, one of the student officers based at the Arndale, said: “I would say that initially I was nervous to start my independent patrol, especially in a new unit that I did not know much about or how it would operate, however I am very happy with how my time in the Retail Crime Team has progressed so far.

“My confidence has improved massively since I first started my time on the team, and I have been able to better familiarise myself with case files, as well as taking more of a lead in investigations which I have enjoyed and learnt a lot from.”

David Allinson, centre director at the Arndale, said: “Manchester Arndale has always had a close working relationship with GMP; so we were very pleased to be asked to be involved in this important initiative.

“It is therefore particularly encouraging to see the positive effect that the deployment of these additional police officers has had in the city centre already.

“The safety and security of everyone who visits Manchester Arndale remains our top priority and we will continue to work with GMP to support similar initiatives.”

Seven Limes Pottery marks 25 years with big move

Seven Limes Pottery, Manchester’s oldest pottery teaching studio, is marking its 25th anniversary with a move to a new, larger location in Ardwick, close to Mayfield Park.
Founded in 1999 by experienced ceramicist Wendy Andrew, the studio began as a passion project in a tiny garage in West Didsbury.

Now, hundreds of students, all keen to discover the joys of working with clay, pass through the doors of Manchester’s original pottery studio each year, which has been located in Moss Side for the last 18 years.
The move to a new home in an Ardwick railway arch comes after years of growing demand for the studio’s courses, which range from a two-and-a-half hour session for total novices to full weekend intensives aimed at more experienced enthusiasts.
Such is the popularity of ceramics classes at Seven Limes, sessions are usually booked up months in advance, precipitating the need for more space. The new premises features a much larger kiln and many additional workspaces.
When founder Wendy Andrew (pictured), who trained at the famed Hornsey College of Arts under renowned ceramicists Emmanuel Cooper and Mo Jupp, first launched the studio in the late nineties, she did not anticipate the business would still be thriving a quarter of a century later. Originally named after a striking cluster of nearby trees, the studio initially housed one solitary potter’s wheel and a mini-kiln.
Seven Limes had outgrown its outbuilding origins by 2006, with a move to Windrush Millennium Centre in Moss Side. There it remained, teaching pottery throwing and handbuilding techniques to beginners and more experienced ceramicists alike, until its planned relocation to Ardwick later this month.
The move marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Wendy’s son Sam (pictured), who took over the reins of the family business in 2022. Sam, who grew up throwing pots under his mother’s guidance, spent many years studying and working overseas as a neuropsychologist before deciding that ceramics was in his blood.

“It’s an incredible privilege to carry on my mum’s legacy,” he said. “When she first set up Seven Limes, no one could have imagined that she was founding a two-generational family business!
“The move is a big deal as we’ve been based in Moss Side for almost two decades. But when the right new premises came up, in what is one of Manchester’s most vibrant and creative districts, I knew I had to go for it.
“The new studio will help us to continue to grow in the right way, staying true to our commitments to sustainability and community. More space means we can teach more people, which can only be a good thing, as Manchester’s love affair with ceramics is showing no sign of cooling.”
To celebrate the 25th anniversary and the new location, Seven Limes’ will host its winter open studio sale, Friday, December 6 (5.30-8pm) – Saturday, December 7 (11am-5pm).
The sale will feature samples, seconds and old stock at a reduced price alongside recently made pieces, with prices ranging from £10 to £250. Among the highlights will be hand-thrown plates, bowls, vases, and ornamental pieces.
Everything is handmade in Manchester, with works by students, teachers and studio members. Look out for pieces from studio owner Sam, whose classic Japanese nerikomi work, which involves stacking and slicing contrasting colours of clay, is strong on the use of recycled materials and sustainable methods, and has regular buyers in London and New York.
You might even snap up a second from a batch of bespoke tableware that the Pottery was commissioned to make for Stockport’s Green Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In restaurant.
There will also be the opportunity to find out about classes and courses at the Pottery, from beginners to advanced.

Finalists of Manchester Culture Awards announced

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The finalists in the running for the top spots at this week’s prestigious Manchester Culture Awards have been announced.
The ceremony at the Hilton Hotel – which celebrates the stand-out cultural and creative highlights of the last year – takes place on Saturday (23).

The awards were first launched six years ago in 2018 by Manchester City Council to recognise Manchester’s fast-growing reputation for culture and the arts, with the annual awards recognising the very best of culture, creativity and the arts in the city – from the grassroots up.

They recognise individuals, events and organisations big and small, that together help make Manchester the vibrant and exciting place for culture and the arts it is.

Nominations for awards across twelve different categories were invited from members of the public, arts professionals, the voluntary and community sector and anyone else with an interest in culture and the arts.

Nominations had to reflect activity between April 2023 and March this year with all nominees either based in Manchester or having a strong track record of delivering activity for the benefit of people who live in or visit the city, or that benefits the local economy.

Award categories include Best Event, Best Performance, Best Exhibition and Young Creative of the Year, as well as other awards that shine a spotlight on some of the important themes of our times such as health and well-being, the environment, and social justice.

Following a phenomenal response to the call for nominations, judges were given the unenviable task of sifting through more than 300 nominations to decide on the finalists and winner in each of the award categories.

This year has once again also seen nominations invited for the Manchester People’s Culture Award,, which will be presented to an individual or organisation whose dedication and contribution to culture in Manchester over a number of years stands above the rest and deserves to be recognised. The winner of the award is chosen by public vote and due to be announced at next week’s awards ceremony.

In addition to deciding the finalists and winners in each of the main award categories, judges also have discretion to present a Special Recognition Award to someone they consider has made a real difference to the cultural life of the city, with two such awards this year due to be made on the night.

Previous recipients of Special Recognition Awards include poet Lemn Sissay OBE (pictured), former Halle music director Sir Mark Elder, poet performance artist dramatist and writer SuAndi OBE, and former Director of HOME, Dave Moutrey OBE.

Garry Bridges, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: “It’s clearly been yet another outstanding year for culture in Manchester. Judges have once again been completely blown away both by the number of nominations made, as well as the extraordinary breadth of talent and innovation here in the city that they reveal.

“We’re a city that embraces culture and the arts as an important part of our identity that helps make Manchester the place it is and can’t wait to announce this year’s Manchester Culture Award winners.”

The finalists in each category are:

Best Business Partnership
Odd Arts and Shoosmiths
Cargill and Z-arts
The Science and Industry Museum and The Landmark Trust ‘Station Agent’s House’
Aviva, Manchester City Council, and Factory International

Promotion of Culture and Education
Powerhouse Portraits by Crossing Footprints and Segment Arts
Studio School at CONTACT
Lekhani Chirwa
Afro Tots Community Group

Best Performance
Census- Malandra Jacks
Labyrinth of Love – Sahba Academy
In the time of Dragons – The Edge Theatre
Free Your Mind – Factory International
My Heart is in the East – Manchester Jewish Museum

Promotion of Equality and Social Justice
ALL FM
Commonword
Music and Mountains – Olympias Music Foundation
Venture Arts

Young Creative of the Year
Eden-Haya Walters
Adele Tondu
Pelumi Fatayo
Sayyed Nazar

Promotion of Talent and Leadership
Brighter Sound
MyHub Manchester’s Music Education Hub 2012 – 2024
Hope Mill Theatre Community Engagement
HOME Young Film Collective

Promotion of Environmental Sustainability
Reform Radio Carbon Literacy Programme
SNUG Project – Longsight Community Art Space CIC
The Song of Ryebank Fields – Ali Davenport
Fly on the Wall Press

Promotion of Health and Wellbeing
SMASH – Sick! Productions
Harmonise – Music Action international
Z-arts in partnership with Manchester Healthy Schools and Health Development Coordinators
Hallé Relaxed Concerts

Made in Manchester
Library of Enchantment – Z-arts
MCR Classical
TiPP
The Schools Writing Trail -Manchester City of Literature

Independent Creative of the Year
Laura Nathan
Omid Asadi
Jenny Harris
DJ Paulette

Best Event
Festival of Libraries
Hope Mill Theatre – Gypsy the Musical
East Manchester Cultural Festival
Be You Not Them – Creative Together

Best Exhibition
Yayoi Kusama ‘You, Me and the Balloons’ – Factory International/ Manchester International Festival
Castlefield Gallery Omid Asadi (Oct 2023 – Jan 2024)
Next Message 2023 Degree Show Manchester School of Art at Manchester Metropolitan University
Fairy Tales – Z-arts
Halmang – esea contemporary
‘Infamous: Opium, Silk, Tea & the Mission’ Portico Library

The Manchester People’s Culture Award
Sahba Academy
53Two
Hope Mill Theatre
Peter Kalu

Human Appeal & Bag2Charity Launch Nationwide Clothing Drive

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Human Appeal has joined forces with Bag2Charity to launch a nationwide clothing donation campaign, running until July 2025. The initiative, part of Human Appeal’s ambitious £2.1 million Door2Door project, aims to provide much-needed clothing to vulnerable communities across the UK. The public is encouraged to donate all-season clothing they no longer need to support this vital cause.

According to a September 2024 report by Statista, 49% of UK households reported increased living costs compared to the previous month. Despite a slowing inflation rate, financial hardship continues to affect families, with many struggling to afford essentials like clothing. On average, UK households spend £920 annually on clothes—a cost that is now a luxury for many.

For the first time, Human Appeal is partnering with Bag2Charity, which collects and distributes clothing through its UK-wide network of shelters, charity shops, and community partners. This collaboration will ensure that donations reach those in need, relieving financial pressure on families across the country.

As part of the campaign, Bag2Charity is also organising school collections, donating a portion of proceeds raised to Human Appeal to support upcoming projects. Schools can book a collection at: https://bag2charity.co.uk/.

The following cities are participating in the campaign:

  • St Albans
  • Bradford
  • Cambridge
  • Derby
  • Durham
  • Doncaster
  • Huddersfield
  • Ripon
  • Lincoln
  • Leeds
  • Manchester
  • Salford
  • Milton Keynes
  • Newcastle
  • Nottingham
  • Oxford
  • Sheffield
  • Sunderland
  • Wakefield
  • York

To arrange a collection, visit: https://bag2charity.co.uk/.

Zaheer Khan, Director of Fundraising at Human Appeal, said: “Wrap Up is one of our biggest campaigns of the year, and in light of the rising rates of poverty in the UK, we have taken the decision to carry out a summer campaign to continue to support those in need for as long as possible. We’d like to extend our gratitude to our partner Bag2Charity for collecting, storing and distributing donations. Every year, we ask the public to donate their unwanted clothing to a worthy cause. We ask anyone with spare clothing to donate to someone in need.”

Jaye Onions, Integrated Communications Coordinator at Bag2Charity, commented: “Our goal is to work for a better world, which wouldn’t be possible without the support of our charity partners. By simplifying the process of donating to charities, it’s never been easier for the public to do good. This campaign with Human Appeal which will run until summer 2025 gives us all the opportunity to declutter and support those in need. We’re delighted to be working with a charity that shares our values and call on the public to get involved to support their local community.”

Game District Acquires Majority Stake in Gleam Games, Creator of EverBlast

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Game District, a global leader in mobile gaming with more than 2 billion game downloads, has purchased a majority stake in Türkiye’s Gleam Games. The acquisition highlights the rapid growth of the Turkish gaming sector and the expanding MENA gaming audience.

In a significant development for the international gaming industry, Game District, based in Southeast Asia, has acquired a controlling interest in Gleam Games, a prominent mobile gaming company known for its hit puzzle game, EverBlast. As part of the agreement, Eser Yoğurtcu, co-founder and CEO of Gleam Games, will take on the position of Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) at Game District.

As one of MENA’s leading mobile game developers, Game District’s decision reflects its commitment to expanding into key international markets and strengthening Türkiye’s position as a regional innovation hub.
Türkiye has emerged as a vibrant gaming landscape, capturing substantial investor interest and producing globally popular games. Following successful investment rounds—including Gleam Games’ US$2 million rounds in total led by Ludus VC and IstCapital between 2022 and 2023—the Turkish gaming sector has grown remarkably.
Excited to shape the future of mobile gaming
“This acquisition is a major step toward our mission of becoming a global mobile gaming powerhouse. By joining forces with Gleam Games, we aim to lead on both innovation and creativity in our industry, leveraging our collective expertise to set new standards in gaming,” said Saad Hameed, Game District’s CEO. “Gleam Games’ technological edge in AI and data-driven game development would enrich us to offer more dynamic, immersive experiences for players.”
Eser Yoğurtcu, a seasoned entrepreneur with extensive industry experience—including at Peak Games, a studio acquired by Zynga for US$ 1.8 billion—remarked, “As CSO of Game District, I am excited to shape the future of mobile gaming, building on the successes of both Game District and Gleam Games. We are ready to bring fresh, bold ideas to the market that will redefine mobile gaming.”
Founded by Eser Yoğurtcu, Berkay Bekil, and Furkan Bekil, Gleam Games has swiftly established itself in Türkiye’s mobile gaming industry, particularly in the casual gaming segment. The studio has gained recognition for EverBlast, a puzzle game that has attracted hundreds of thousands of players with its engaging design and gameplay. By integrating advanced game development tools and AI technology, Gleam Games has set itself apart as a tech-forward game studio focused on creating compelling user experiences.
Advancing Türkiye’s role in the gaming industry
Game District is known for its impressive portfolio, with over 2 billion downloads and 7 million daily active users. It holds a unique position in MENA where 65% of the population identifies as gamers. This high engagement can be attributed to the region’s youthful demographic and widespread smartphone use, which provide access to digital entertainment. With partnerships spanning major international brands like the NFL, Game District’s acquisition of Gleam Games promises to extend its reach even further and tap into Türkiye’s thriving game development ecosystem.
“This acquisition is not just an entry into Türkiye but also an endorsement of the country’s expanding role in the global gaming sector. With Türkiye’s talent pool and rapidly growing tech infrastructure, we aim to build stronger ties within the European gaming community, enhancing collaboration between developers and players,” said Hameed, “We believe in Türkiye’s potential as a dynamic gaming hub, and we are committed to supporting the region’s growth while developing world-class gaming experiences.”

AJet Secures First International Honour from APEX

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New Turkish Airline Named “Four-Star Low-Cost Airline” in Global Passenger Survey

AJet, Türkiye’s latest airline, has earned recognition from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), a renowned authority in the aviation sector, through the prestigious APEX Passenger Choice Awards. Based on feedback from over one million passengers across the globe, AJet was awarded the “Four-Star Low-Cost Airline” distinction, marking it as the sole Turkish carrier in this category to achieve such a feat.

AJets Service Quality Gains International Recognition

As one of the most respected global aviation organizations, APEX awards airlines across various categories based on passenger experiences. Competing against numerous international airlines, AJet stood out for prioritizing passenger satisfaction and offering affordable pricing. In a category evaluated by one million passengers, AJet earned the title of “Four-Star Low-Cost Airline,” cementing its commitment to accessible, quality travel.

Having launched its first flight on March 31 under the AJet name, the airline achieved its first international award in just seven months since its founding.

“Our Goal: To Be the First Choice in Accessible Travel”

The award was presented by APEX/IFSA CEO Dr. Joe Leader to AJet’s SVP Marketing’, Fatih Cığal, and Cabin Training Director, Türkan İşyapan Gürbüz, at the APEX/IFSA Global Expo in the United States.

Expressing pride in receiving such a prestigious award, Fatih Cığal, AJet’s SVP Marketing, commented, “We are honored to be recognized with one of the world’s most esteemed awards. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our team members for their dedication and hard work in achieving this success. Our mission is to become the go-to brand for safe, affordable travel and to remain the top choice for passengers seeking accessible journeys.”

For the latest news and more information about AJet, you can visit www.ajet.com or follow our social media accounts on FacebookXYouTubeLinkedIn and Instagram.

Employment law specialist Myerson provides news update for Autumn 2024

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Myerson Solicitors’ Autumn Employment Law Update 2024 webinar provided HR professionals and business leaders with a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in employment law.

Partner Joanne Henderson, senior associate Jack Latham (pictured main) and associate Vicki Fagan covered key topics including anticipated legislation around “day one” unfair dismissal rights, strengthening protections for new and expectant mothers, and updates to the National Minimum Wage and Statutory Sick Pay, all of which carry substantial implications for employers in the UK.

Led by Myerson’s Employment Solicitors, a highlight of the session was the exploration of the “right to disconnect,” which aims to address work-life balance concerns in a digitally connected world.

Additionally, Myerson’s experts offered valuable insights into managing and preventing workplace sexual harassment, with an emphasis on proactive measures that organisations can implement to safeguard their workforce.

The discussion also covered the evolving legal landscape around gender-critical beliefs, addressing both the rights of individuals to express these beliefs and the potential for workplace conflicts arising from them.

Through this webinar, Myerson’s experienced employment law team aimed to equip attendees with actionable knowledge to navigate complex legal requirements, prioritize employee well-being, and foster a compliant, supportive work environment.

By staying informed on these critical updates, employers can mitigate legal risks, promote inclusivity, and enhance overall employee satisfaction.

In September 2024, Myerson Solicitors became the first law firm in Manchester to convert from an LLP to a 100% employee-owned business.

Albright IP Wins Landmark High Court Case for Liking Ltd

In a significant Intellectual Property Enterprise Court ruling, Albright IP has achieved a major legal victory for its client, Liking Ltd, in a copyright dispute brought by WaterRower (UK) Ltd.

The judgment has established a crucial precedent for the copyright protection of functional 3D objects, clarifying the definition of “a work of artistic craftsmanship” under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (CDPA).

WaterRower argued that their water-resistance rowing machines were works of artistic craftsmanship, protected by copyright. They alleged that Liking Ltd’s Topiom rowing machines had infringed this copyright by replicating substantial elements of the design.

In response, Liking Ltd maintained that the WaterRower machines did not meet the criteria for works of artistic craftsmanship and, therefore, could not qualify for copyright protection.

Judge Campbell Forsyth, delivering his decision, ruled that WaterRower machines, including their prototype, fail to meet the legal requirements to be classified as works of artistic craftsmanship. As a result, the machines do not benefit from copyright protection under UK law.

This judgment highlights a notable divergence between UK and EU approaches to copyright law, bringing greater clarity to the standards required for 3D functional objects to gain copyright eligibility in the UK.

Commenting on the case, Cloe Loo, Patent Director at Albright IP, said: “This judgment provides much-needed clarity in UK copyright law on what qualifies as a work of artistic craftsmanship. For a number of years, conflicting UK and EU case law has created uncertainty around copyright protection for 3D objects that aren’t sculptures. This ruling establishes that such objects must meet the test of artistic craftsmanship to qualify for copyright. It’s an important milestone for the IP sector.”

Loo detailed the complexities of the case, which involved overcoming language barriers and time zone challenges to communicate effectively with her client.

“Working closely with Liking Ltd required not only a robust IP strategy but also a deep understanding of their language and business culture. Communicating the nuances of UK copyright law in Chinese, for instance, was essential to ensure our client was fully informed and comfortable with each stage of the case,” she explained.

Albright IP’s Managing Director, Robert Games, praised Loo’s efforts, stating: “We are immensely proud of Cloe. This was a challenging, multilingual case which was set to impact IP law. Cloe’s ability to build her team and manage these complexities in both English and Chinese is a testament to her commitment and expertise. This outcome is a notable achievement for Albright IP and highlights our team’s strength in high-stakes IP litigation.”

This decision has significant implications for the intellectual property sector, particularly in shaping copyright law for functional 3D objects. Whether an appeal will follow remains to be seen, but the judgment represents a key development in defining artistic craftsmanship in the context of UK copyright law.

Link to judgement in full: https://www.albright-ip.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WaterRower-v-Liking-2024-EWHC-2806-IPEC-Approved-Judgment-11-November-2024.pdf

Customisable Modular Solutions for UK Construction

Addressing the need for faster and greener construction methods, Module-T’s modular solutions allow entire buildings to be constructed off-site and assembled quickly on-site. Applications include offices, schools, and sanitary units, with the company aiming to lead the UK market by delivering bespoke, high-quality modular systems.

With over 15 years of international expertise, Module-T Prefabrik is expanding into the UK. Its range of modular options includes office containers, sanitary units, locker rooms, dormitories, and modular office spaces. Labour accommodation is a primary focus, ensuring that industries can meet their operational needs efficiently and promptly.

Speed and efficiency for commercial projects and public sector needs
Module-T’s expansion into the UK market introduces modular construction technology that prioritises speed, flexibility, and sustainability. “Our modular solutions are specifically engineered to minimise on-site disruption and accelerate construction timelines,” said Yigit Ozdemir, Regional Sales Director at Module-T. “Entire modules are built off-site in factories and assembled on-site, allowing for rapid deployment. This method not only reduces noise and pollution but also significantly lessens the environmental impact.”
2022 study by academics from the University of Cambridge and Edinburgh Napier University found that modular construction can reduce embodied carbon by up to 45%. Embodied carbon refers to emissions generated during the construction process, including the production and transportation of materials, highlighting the sustainability benefits of off-site modular construction.
 Multipurpose solutions for a range of applications that minimise environmental impact
Module-T provides solutions tailored for various applications, including permanent or temporary office spaces for companies across sectors. The company also offers WC cabins, canteens, classrooms, and other facilities for municipalities and local institutions, meeting the diverse requirements of public sector projects. “Our modular facilities are designed to provide flexible, high-quality solutions that cater to the specific needs of the UK’s construction industry,” added Özdemir.
By manufacturing buildings entirely off-site and assembling them on-site, Module-T reduces construction time and minimises disruption in local communities. This approach not only enhances efficiency but aligns with industry trends favouring sustainable construction methods. “Our off-site approach offers a practical solution to the demands of commercial and public sector projects while reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional construction,” noted Özdemir. “We aim to lead the UK market in providing efficient and sustainable modular construction solutions.”
Strategic growth and commitment to quality
With the UK’s modular construction market expected to grow at an annual rate of 6.3%, reaching a projected value of £12 billion by 2025, Module-T is well-positioned to establish a strong presence. By combining innovative design with extensive international experience, the company aims to deliver adaptable solutions that meet the evolving needs of both commercial and public sector clients in the UK. Whether for office spaces, educational facilities, or sanitary units, Module-T’s  temporary site accommodationare built to be efficient, durable, and comfortable.
“At Module-T, we are committed to offering efficient and quality solutions that meet the diverse needs of our clients across the UK,” said Özdemir. “Our expertise in modular construction will contribute significantly to the industry’s growth and support the delivery of essential projects.”

‘The Donald Dash’: Millions of Americans Consider Emigration

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  • The Immigration Advice Service has experienced a 500% increase in traffic from the U.S.
  • Preferred destinations for American emigrants include Canada and the U.K.
  • 40% of U.S. citizens aged 16-24 are considering emigration.

After Donald Trump’s historic return to the presidency in 2024, millions of Americans are considering their “great escape,” new research reveals.

According to the Immigration Advice Service, 25% of Americans are now contemplating relocation. The service has seen a 500% rise in website traffic from the U.S., while Google searches for “moving abroad” and “how to emigrate” are at record highs.

Coastal cities show the greatest interest, with 47% of Los Angeles residents and 35% of New Yorkers considering emigration. Younger individuals are far more likely to seek a move abroad, with 40% of those aged 16-24 exploring the option, compared to just 14% of those aged 55 and above.

The most popular destinations are Canada (29%) and the UK (19%), while Ireland (7.5%) and Australia (8%) see lower levels of interest.

In Britain, attitudes towards moving to the U.S. have also shifted. A survey indicates that 40% of Brits are now less likely to consider America as a destination, with women showing stronger reluctance (50%). Australia (15%) and Canada (14%) are becoming more popular choices.

Ono Okeregha, Director at the Immigration Advice Service, remarked: “There’s a complex mix of factors that affect a person’s choice to emigrate and their preferred destination. However perceived stability both financial and political is extremely important. The recent US election has sent shockwaves through America and beyond. There is a real sense of uncertainty and we’re seeing this impact both Americans and Brits’ decisions about where they want to live and build their future.”

Visit the blog for further insights.