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Overdue invoices in the North West top 6.8 million in 2024, new research shows

Helen Greaney
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Overdue invoices in the North West top 6.8 million in 2024, new research shows
North West businesses had over 6.8 million overdue invoices on their books in 2024, according to new research from R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body.
R3’s analysis of data provided by Creditsafe shows that businesses in the North West recorded a total of 6,879,584 overdue invoices last year. This was the third highest yearly total, falling only behind Greater London (10.5 million overdue invoices) and the West Midlands (8.4 million overdue invoices).
The total number of overdue invoices in 2024 rose by 4.2% when compared to 2023’s total of 6,601,976 overdue invoices. October saw the highest volume of overdue invoices, with a total of 609,193 recorded during the month.
Fran Henshaw, chair of R3 in the North West, said: “2024 was an incredibly challenging year for North West businesses. While a decline in inflation levels provided some relief by slowing the pace of rising costs, this was overshadowed by a host of other challenges.
“Ongoing supply chain disruptions made it harder for businesses to operate smoothly, high energy costs continued to squeeze profit margins, and political uncertainty surrounding the election left many unsure about the future. These difficulties were further compounded by new pressures introduced in the October budget, making it even harder for businesses to regain their footing.
“The combination of these ongoing pressures has left many businesses in the North West unable to meet payment deadlines and struggling to stay afloat.”
The number of North West companies with overdue invoices on their books reached 670,016 in 2024. This is a 3.4% increase from 2023, when 647,884 firms recorded overdue invoices on their books.
In 2024, the North West saw the fourth highest number of firms with overdue invoices on their books of all the UK’s nations and regions, surpassed only by Greater London (1,193,220 firms), East Anglia (758,866), and the South East (701,987).
Fran, who is head of corporate recovery and insolvency at Beever and Struthers, said: “Over the past couple of years, many businesses struggled to pay their bills on time, and as conditions have not improved enough, these debts have snowballed. This has placed immense pressure on North West businesses, with more and more now unable to meet their payment deadlines amidst ongoing financial challenges.
“If conditions don’t improve early this year, we could see more companies facing even greater pressures, with some turning to insolvency processes to address their financial issues.
“I would urge businesses in the North West to seek advice at the first signs of financial distress. Conversation around money can be extremely difficult, but by facing your problems early, you’ll have more time to think about your next steps and more potential options available to you for resolving your concerns.”

Qarddin Token to Revolutionize DeFi with Amazon Partnership Announcement

News Desk
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Qarddin Token to Revolutionize DeFi with Amazon Partnership Announcement

Qarddin Token, a trailblazer in decentralized finance (DeFi), has unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with Amazon, marking a significant milestone in the digital asset space. This partnership is expected to expand Qarddin Token’s utility and visibility, bridging the gap between blockchain technology and mainstream adoption.

A Transformative Alliance with Amazon

The collaboration between Qarddin Token and Amazon underscores the token’s growing influence in the world of digital finance. Amazon, a global leader in e-commerce and technology, is known for its rigorous standards and forward-thinking approach to innovation. By partnering with Amazon, Qarddin Token gains access to one of the most trusted and widely recognized platforms, providing unparalleled exposure and credibility.

This partnership is set to unlock new use cases for the token within Amazon’s vast ecosystem, benefiting both existing holders and newcomers. It signifies a monumental step in integrating blockchain technology with everyday commerce.

Qarddin Token: The Future of Financial Empowerment

Qarddin Token’s mission is to democratize access to financial services through blockchain-powered solutions. By offering a holistic ecosystem encompassing lending, borrowing, staking, and decentralized trading, Qarddin Token provides users with secure, efficient, and intermediary-free tools for managing their assets.

The collaboration with Amazon amplifies this mission, opening up innovative opportunities to make DeFi solutions accessible to millions of Amazon users worldwide. This partnership positions Qarddin Token as a pioneer in merging traditional commerce with cutting-edge decentralized finance.

Key Features of the Qarddin-Amazon Collaboration

  1. Token Integration for Payments:
    The partnership aims to explore the integration of Qarddin Token as a payment option within Amazon’s platform, enabling users to seamlessly purchase products and services with their holdings.
  2. Enhanced Global Reach:
    With Amazon’s presence in over 190 countries, Qarddin Token will gain unprecedented exposure, expanding its user base and accelerating adoption on a global scale.
  3. Utility Expansion:
    Beyond payments, Qarddin Token could be utilized in Amazon’s ecosystem for loyalty rewards, promotional campaigns, and exclusive membership benefits, creating new avenues for value.
  4. Increased Credibility:
    Partnering with Amazon lends significant credibility to Qarddin Token, reassuring investors and users of the project’s vision and technological reliability.
  5. Mainstream DeFi Adoption:
    This collaboration is a step toward mainstream acceptance of decentralized finance, bridging the gap between blockchain innovations and real-world applications.

What’s Next for Qarddin Token?

As Qarddin Token continues to evolve, this partnership with Amazon serves as a catalyst for further growth and innovation. The team is actively working on expanding the token’s ecosystem, including potential integrations with other e-commerce platforms and global service providers. Security and transparency remain at the forefront of Qarddin Token’s priorities, ensuring users can trust the platform as it scales.

About Qarddin Token

Qarddin Token is a leading digital asset designed to empower users worldwide through decentralized financial services. Its blockchain-based ecosystem offers solutions for lending, borrowing, staking, and trading, with a commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

Through its collaboration with Amazon, Qarddin Token is poised to redefine how digital assets interact with traditional commerce, paving the way for a future where blockchain technology seamlessly integrates into everyday life.

James Anderson signs Lancashire deal… and England legend could play first T20 cricket since 2014

Ben Miller
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James Anderson signs Lancashire deal… and England legend could play first T20 cricket since 2014

Former England bowler James Anderson wants to “hit the ground running” after signing a one-year deal with Lancashire, where he made his debut 24 years ago.

Anderson, who will be 43 in July, has not played since announcing his retirement from international cricket after making his final Test appearance six months ago, signing off with 704 wickets.

“This club has played a huge part in my life since I was a teenager, so to have the opportunity to wear the Red Rose again and help the side in both red and white ball cricket is one that I am really looking forward to,” said Anderson, having hinted at a return following his appointment as an England bowling consultant.

“I have been working hard on keeping my fitness levels high and continuing to bowl regularly during my time as a coach with England throughout the winter, with the aim of being able to hit the ground running when the county season starts in April.”

James Anderson: Cricket comeback ‘special’

A part in Lancashire’s Blast campaign, which begins on May 29, would represent Anderson’s first T20 action since 2014.

Lancashire’s Division Two season starts at Lord’s against Middlesex on April 4, when their ranks could include the veteran with 1,126 wickets in 298 first-class matches to his name.

The 2010 T20 World Cup winner has said he will put club cricket first but remain part of England’s staff for the Champions Trophy in February and March, calling the prospect of playing at Old Trafford again will be “really special”.

Anderson Lancashire deal ‘fantastic’

Director of cricket performance Mark Chilton said Lancashire had been in “open dialogue” with Anderson since his international retirement and made their stance “clear from the start”.

“From speaking to Jimmy recently, it became clear that his desire to resume playing professional cricket was strengthening every day and he was just desperate to get back out on the park,” added Chilton, calling Anderson’s return “fantastic”.

“As it stands, he is fully committed to the county season across both the County Championship and Vitality Blast this summer, and while we all recognise he will have other opportunities, he has made it clear playing is his first priority.

“To be able to share a dressing room with England’s all-time leading wicket taker, and one of cricket’s greatest players, is incredible for our squad and I’ve no doubt that [fans globally] will be equally as thrilled to watch Jimmy in action for Lancashire again next summer.”

Anderson entered the Indian Premier League auction in November but remained unsold.

Consultation opens for Northern Quarter housing development

Helen Greaney
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Consultation opens for Northern Quarter housing development

A consultation opens today gathering feedback from residents and businesses around proposals to deliver new housing in the city centre through Manchester Council’s housing company, This City.

The Postal Street site in Manchester’s Northern Quarter is the fourth This City site to be brought forward for consultation following engagement opportunities for sites in Monsall and Longsight – and follows the first This City development in Ancoats (No1 Ancoats Green), which will complete later this year.

The Postal Street development will repurpose brownfield land and proposes 126 new low carbon homes for rent – 70 one-bed and 56 two-bed homes – and at least 20% will be made available at the Manchester Living Rent (a level of rent that is covered by housing benefit).

The development will also provide ground floor commercial space that will further enhance the offer in the local area.

The consultation is open until February 2.

Feedback about the proposals can be given either online, via email ( [email protected]) or at an in-person event from 4pm-7pm on Thursday, January 23 at The Studio 51 Lever Street, M1 1FN.

Councillor Gavin White said: “This City is an innovative way of increasing the number of homes built on Council land – building the homes we know our residents want, including affordable homes, on our own terms.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to find out more and take part in the consultation. Gathering feedback from people who live and work in the area is a vital part of the process and will help guide the final proposals ahead of a planning application.”

Capital&Centric completes Manchester mill workspace restoration

Helen Greaney
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Capital&Centric completes Manchester mill workspace restoration

Restoration of one of Manchester’s historic mills is complete, with the team behind it revealing a first look at some of the new creative workspaces inside.

Social impact developer Capital&Centric took on the Grade II listed Neptune Mill in Manchester’s Piccadilly East neighbourhood last year. They’ve now completed the stunning restoration and repurposing of the 19th century building, turning it into some of the city’s coolest workspaces for creative businesses.

New images show how loads of the building’s original features have been retained and celebrated as part of the overhaul, with bold new fixtures and fittings fit for the 21st century.

The top floor has seen the biggest transformation, with reclaimed timbers taken from the entire building used to reboard the ceilings, revealing more of the building’s innate charm. Roof lights have also been fitted to reveal the stunning features, a perfect space for one of Manchester’s bustling creative businesses to locate to.

A lush new courtyard and coffee shop has also been finished. Capital&Centric recently signed up Ancoats favourite Cotton to move in, offering a new spot for people working there, living nearby and the general public to hang out. Expect to see their sought-after sarnies, coffee, cakes and juices as well a new spot for after works beverages.

Neptune Mill (pictured) – named after a long gone road in the area – has been built to the highest energy efficiency standards, achieving an EPC A rating, whilst also saving loads of embodied carbon that would’ve been lost if the mill was demolished. Manchester-based Capital&Centric, headed up by Tim Heatley and Adam Higgins, has also made one of the Neptune Mill floors its new HQ.

It’s also set to feature a massive new addition to Manchester’s street art scene, with the team in discussion with muralists about a permanent new installation.

Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “This is a major step forward in our plans for Piccadilly East. We’ve already delivered new homes, hotels and cultural spaces and Neptune Mill adds something different to the mix … really desirable workspaces with standout original features and a new neighbourhood coffee shop. It’s brilliant the team behind Cotton are on board to make the space their own and we’ve no doubt Neptune will be perfect for businesses that want anything but a bland corporate space.

“As well as bringing something new to the Manchester market, it’s also a fresh chapter for the Capital&Centric team as we make it our new base.”

Any potential occupiers can register interest here: www.capitalandcentric.com/neptune-mill

dbfb appoints rugby league icon to expand UK reach

Helen Greaney
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dbfb appoints rugby league icon to expand UK reach

Rugby league legend Paul Sculthorpe MBE has joined industry-leading telecoms and IT managed service provider dbfb as a director of the company.

To drive business growth, dbfb announced that the former Warrington, St Helens, and Great Britain captain will spearhead the company’s ambitious commercial expansion plans, including the launch of a new business base in Greater Manchester.

He hopes to utilise his extensive network of contacts throughout the rugby league and business world to expand dbfb’s presence further across the UK. With 26 years of service, dbfb is renowned for its innovative telecoms and managed IT services and is well-positioned to serve businesses across the region.

Joining Sculthorpe is Paige-Elise Harrison (pictured centre), an experienced business development professional, who has been newly appointed as dbfb’s head of sales for the Northern region.

Simon Pickering (pictured left), managing director of dbfb, highlighted how Sculthorpe’s winning mentality makes him ideal to lead dbfb’s Northern team as the company continues to grow.

He said: “I am delighted to welcome Paul and Paige-Elise to team dbfb. They understand that our tailored approach, exceptional customer service, and bespoke solutions for businesses are at the heart of what we do. Together, they will be instrumental in driving the next phase of our growth, including our new Manchester office.

“The city is home to a thriving £5 billion digital ecosystem with more than 10,000 digital and tech businesses, making it the ideal location for us to expand our presence. With their combined expertise and network of connections, Paul and Paige-Elise will showcase our transformative solutions, and service, to businesses across the area.”

Paul Sculthorpe MBE (pictured right) said: “I’ve been good friends with Simon for a long while, and I love his passion for the industry. I know what it’s like to be part of a winning team, so the opportunity to join dbfb and help expand the business, particularly in a region close to my heart, was too good to pass up. I look forward to introducing dbfb to the business community in Greater Manchester and across the region.”

The company’s expansion will allow dbfb to deliver bespoke, future-proof managed services, combining telecom and IT solutions that help businesses stay connected and competitive.

Man arrested following attack on nurse at Royal Oldham Hospital

Helen Greaney
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Man arrested following attack on nurse at Royal Oldham Hospital

A 37-year old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, after a nurse was attacked at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

At 11.30pm on Sunday, Greater Manchester Police were called to the A&E department, following reports that a member of the public had attacked a woman in her 50s, with a sharp instrument, which was not a knife.

The victim suffered critical, life-changing injuries and remains in hospital for treatment.

Officers say they are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with this incident, and they do not believe there is a wider threat to the public.

Detective sergeant Craig Roters said: “This is a serious incident which has left a woman in a critical condition. 

“Our thoughts are with her family and colleagues, and we will continue to support them throughout this investigation.

“The local community can expect to see an increase in police presence whilst we carry out enquiries, but they are also there to offer reassurance and answer any questions you may have. We know that news of this nature will come as a shock, and if you have any concerns or anything you would like to share, please speak to them.”

Chief nursing officer at Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust Heather Caudle said: “We are incredibly shocked and saddened by last night’s incident and our focus is on supporting the colleague involved and their family.

“Our thoughts are also with colleagues and patients who were there at the time of the incident and for whom this has been distressing and frightening. We will continue to support Greater Manchester Police with their inquiries. All services at The Royal Oldham Hospital remain open.”

Health secretary Wes Streeting wrote on X: “My thoughts are with the nurse and her loved ones following this horrific attack at The Royal Oldham Hospital.

“Nurses are the backbone of our NHS and should be able to care for patients without fear of violence.

“We’re in touch with the Trust and will update further as we can.”

Repair fund launched as Didsbury Sports Ground devastated by floods

Helen Greaney
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Repair fund launched as Didsbury Sports Ground devastated by floods

An emergency repair fund has been set up for century-old Didsbury Sports Ground (DSG) after it was left devasted by floods.

Water poured throughout the clubhouse, destroying playing fields and causing catastrophic damage at the ground, which is home to Didsbury TocH Rugby Club, Didsbury football Club, Park Run and many other community sports and events.

The club has launched its Repair & Rescue fund to help rebuild the foundations of this Didsbury landmark, which is expected to cost tens of thousands of pounds in remedial works, after the worst possible start to 2025.

Since New Year’s Day, the ground has taken an unprecedented hit. The River Mersey burst its banks, sending floodwaters into the surrounding areas, with the Didsbury flood basin filling to unprecedented levels overnight – over a meter higher than previous years (the last being in 2022).

Significant structural damage to the Sports Club’s changing room block, storage areas and the clubhouse was caused and the impact on the playing fields, grounds and car park has been devastating.

Now volunteers of DSG and associated sports clubs have been left to deal with the fallout, which has been left in jeopardy after the rapid rise of the river levels.

The direct impact of flooding is an uninsurable risk and it falls on the generosity of the clubs membership and charity arm (DPFA) to raise funds to secure the future of the sports ground.

Ian Bailey, director of DSG said: “The devastation caused by the flooding is nothing short of heart-wrenching. The ground has been a landmark and local hub within the village for over a century. The damage is catastrophic and the impact to the community is immense.

“Our ground is far more than just a sports facility, it is a place where people connect, grow, and thrive, and embrace the community spirit. To lose such an iconic and central community resource would be unthinkable and such a travesty, which is why we’re calling on local and central government support.”

Every week, DSG brings together over 800 people from the local area for sports, fitness, social activities, recreation and community events, creating a place for well-being, a fantastic social circle and helping to build an all-round happier and healthier community.

DSG now face the daunting challenge of cleaning up and repairing the damage. The aim is to raise £50,000, which will go towards the clean-up operation. Every contribution, no matter how large or small, will make a real difference in getting the sports ground back to a usable state.

Ian added: “We are so grateful for the immediate help of our volunteers and the fantastic people at this club. Once the water recedes, we will however need more than time, we will require the funds to bring the ground and clubhouse back into full use and to safeguard from future flooding. Every contribution will make a huge difference.”

Telcom and Luminet Rebrand as Elevate® Following a Year of Integration and Growth

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Telcom and Luminet Rebrand as Elevate® Following a Year of Integration and Growth

Telcom Group has rebranded as Elevate®, completing a strategic 12-month process to unify its operations, including Telcom Networks, the wholesale initiative GigaBritain, and London-based ISP Luminet, acquired in October last year. This integration positions Elevate as a comprehensive provider of end-to-end network solutions, spanning connectivity, cyber security, and managed network services.

Under the new Elevate brand, the company aims to deliver a seamless and unified customer experience as a “Ground to Cloud” technology partner. To support this vision, Elevate has invested heavily in its internal systems and integrated customer portals, ensuring enhanced service delivery and management. The wholesale division, which serves over 300 partners, will now operate under the name Elevate Wholesale.

Elliott Mueller, Group CEO, expressed his pride in the rebrand: “We have spent the last year listening to our customers, partners & teams. As our business continues to scale at pace underpinned by our total commitment to provide our customers with the best possible service, I am immensely proud of the team that has worked to deliver the Elevate experience which we believe will be the benchmark for direct and channel partners expectations in delivery and after sale service.”

Mueller also emphasised the crucial role of channel partners in the company’s strategy: “Our channel partners are a key component in our growth strategy where the requirements to successfully deliver and support connectivity and aligned components in partner-led, mission-critical solutions. These partnerships are essential in building long-term relationships. Elevate is now fully equipped to deliver our channel proposition under the Elevate Wholesale banner and looks forward to an exciting 2025 for the group.”

The Elevate rebrand signifies a major milestone for the company, aligning its offerings and solidifying its position as a trusted partner for businesses and channel partners in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

Eco-Luxury Shivo Towers Construction Begins in Zanzibar

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Eco-Luxury Shivo Towers Construction Begins in Zanzibar

The groundbreaking for Shivo Towers, a luxury apartment project in Paje, Zanzibar, has commenced. Covering 9,740 sqm, the development features two towers with 162 apartments and four penthouses, offering high-end amenities like a pool, spa, gym, restaurant/bar, and tropical gardens.

Shivo partnered with Muchmore Architectural Design and architect Christian Bonu to create a model of sustainable development for Zanzibar. The apartments, including studio suites and penthouses with private infinity pools, are priced between $116,000 and $1.4 million. Construction is set for completion in 2027.

The project’s early milestones include completed ground investigations and environmental studies. Shivo Towers has also been recognised by the Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority (ZIPA) with an investment certificate, underscoring its significance for the local economy.

Richard Ashby, the project’s founder, stated, “Zanzibar is really elevating itself as a luxury travel destination, and we have received plenty of interest in these apartments from people living overseas such as the US and Dubai.”

Ashby added, “Zanzibar has become a true gem for international investors. The improved infrastructure and growing flight connections have made it incredibly accessible, but it’s the unique blend of natural beauty and rich culture that really seals the deal. We’re seeing buyers from all over the world who recognise this isn’t just another beach destination – it’s a rare investment opportunity in a truly special place and emerging market.”

Real estate demand in Zanzibar is surging due to its flourishing tourism sector. Ashby remarked, “If you consider the cost of building and purchasing a similar type of property in resorts like Barbados or the Maldives, Zanzibar is a very attractive proposition for investors.”

He added, “There has been a lot of investment in air and road infrastructure on the island, and it is a rapidly surging market in terms of luxury tourism, so the demand is there for these properties making them an ideal investment. Returns on investments from rentals and reselling through value appreciation on property are massively expanding on the island, meaning there has never been a better time to consider investing in property here.”

For more information, visit Shivo’s website at www.byshivo.com and follow their journey on Instagram @shivo_tanzania.

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