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New-look food and drink festival returns this Easter after 25-year legacy

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New-look food and drink festival returns this Easter after 25-year legacy

A popular regional food and drink festival is returning this Easter with a new name and a reimagined structure.

After 25 years of success as the Taste Cheshire (Chester) Food & Drink Festival, the event is now reintroducing itself as the Cheshire and North Wales Food and Drink Festival, signalling a fresh chapter in its long history.

The event is now being delivered by Steven Hesketh, a local hotelier and co-owner of Devafest, together with Katie Isaacson of CoolBreeze Events. The pair became involved after learning the festival was in danger of coming to an end and are committed to preserving the much-loved event.

The 2026 festival promises several exciting changes:

  • Expanded Entertainment: A full Fun Fair, a dedicated Kid’s Zone, and a live music stage will offer something for all ages.
  • New Dates: For the first time, the festival will run over Easter weekend, Good Friday (3rd April), Easter Saturday (4th April), and Easter Sunday (5th April).
  • Return of Camping: On-site camping will be available, creating a full weekend experience for visitors.
  • Improved Layout: A redesigned site plan will enhance footfall and trading areas, ensuring visitors and traders enjoy a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Steven and Katie bring extensive experience in delivering professional, community-focused events.

Commenting, Steven, who also runs the Chester Townhouse and Hotel Wrexham, said: “After 25 years, The Chester Food and Drink Festival was about to end. And the minute we heard that, it just felt wrong. Chester at Easter without the food and drink festival isn’t Chester. It’s one of those traditions that quietly becomes part of the city’s identity. You don’t realise how much it matters until someone tries to switch it off. So I’ve decided to step in, take it on, and we’re keeping the Chester Food and Drink weekend alive — with a few new twists.”

Katie added: “It’s a real privilege to pick up the baton of this iconic festival alongside Steven Hesketh FIH. Chester Food and Drink Festival has meant so much to this city for 25 years, and as we step into this new chapter as the Cheshire & North Wales Food & Drink Festival, we’re really looking forward to bringing our own personality to it, while keeping the heart of it exactly where it belongs: supporting local producers, celebrating brilliant hospitality, and delivering a weekend that still feels like a proper Easter tradition for everyone.”

Part of the outgoing management team will remain in a consultancy role throughout 2026 to ensure a smooth transition and preserve the festival’s long-standing reputation.

Taste Cheshire’s Tori Hayes said: “It has been an absolute privilege to be the caretakers of this event for the last 25 years. We are delighted to hand the reins to Steven and Katie. They are a fantastic, professional team we’ve worked with for years, and we know they will do an amazing job introducing much-needed changes while maintaining the heart of the festival.”

Trader opportunities are now open, with consumer ticket sales launching on 1st February. The new management team is prioritising applications from existing and local traders, reflecting a commitment to community and continuity. Due to high demand, interested parties are encouraged to act quickly to secure a pitch.

To express interest in a trade stand, please complete the application form here: www.cnwfoodanddrinkfestival.com/tradersform

Legal warning issued as EMI scheme mistakes continue to undermine startup tax relief

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Legal warning issued as EMI scheme mistakes continue to undermine startup tax relief
  • JPP Law cautions that common EMI errors can result in startups losing tax advantages on a permanent basis
  • Problems around share class eligibility, regulatory compliance and leaver terms are regularly identified during due diligence reviews
  • Changes to EMI thresholds mean founders should review existing schemes before making new grants

According to JPP Law, a commercial law firm working with startups and scale-ups across England and Wales, many founders are still underestimating the legal complexity of Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) schemes, leading to avoidable mistakes with serious tax consequences.

While EMI options continue to be one of the most effective tools for aligning and incentivising employees without draining cash reserves, the rules governing their operation are highly technical and frequently misunderstood.

“We regularly see EMI schemes unravel not because founders are careless, but because they underestimate how technical the rules really are,” said JP Irvine, a commercial lawyer and option scheme expert for JPP Law. “By the time a problem comes to light, the tax benefits are often already lost.”

Through its work assessing and repairing EMI schemes, JP Irvine highlights several recurring areas of risk that founders should address before issuing options or relying on existing arrangements.

1. Using “full-strength” ordinary shares instead of a tailored employee share class

“A lot of founders reach for ordinary shares for their employees because it feels safe, familiar and consistent. But this is not the smartest move in the Founders’ Playbook. The problem is that ordinary shares usually hold full voting rights, dividends and wide information rights. That means they tend to have a higher market value, which drives up the option exercise price – and ends up costing your employee more in the pocket!

“A more practical route is to create a lighter share class specifically for employees. Removing rights that staff don’t need at an early stage often results in a much better option-valuation, which makes the exercise price more appealing and keeps the structure cleaner (votes to those who need them, no votes to those who don’t).

“Before you create a new share class, please take legal advice from a qualified corporate lawyer, rather than an automated bot, AI, a platform, or non-lawyer.

 “When this is planned properly from the start, it normally leads to a far better long-term structure, happy staff and an option scheme that actually works and pays out properly for the employee shares upon exit.”

2. Treating EMI as a “one and done” project – WRONG!

“It is very common for companies to draft the documents, sign the option agreements and send them to employees, thinking it is done and dusted. No – every employee must sign and return within the allotted deadline, annual reporting must take place by 6 July every year, and individual option grants must be reported too OR ELSE EMI status will be lost, and all your hard work wasted.

“You need a clear system for tracking options granted, making HMRC filings, paying exercise prices, issuing employee shares, updating Companies House and meeting deadlines. Set timers, diary notifications or whatever it takes to keep those dates in sight, because once an EMI falls out of compliance it is very hard to repair the damage.”

3. A common mix-up – vesting vs exercise

“Vesting and exercising are often spoken about as if they are the same thing, and they’re not. Vesting is quite akin to the concept of earning. The vesting date is the date when the employee has earned the right to exercise the option, subject to all other terms and conditions of the option agreement being satisfied. Even after vesting, the option holder is still an option holder – they do not own shares at that stage.

“Exercise is a separate step. It is the moment the employee actually acquires shares and becomes a shareholder – often by paying the exercise price (or by using whatever payment mechanism is allowed). Only after exercise do those shares form part of your company’s official share capital.

“We still see companies describing employees as shareholders when their options have only vested.That kind of confusion can cause real problems later on.”

4. In sync – keeping your option scheme, Articles and Investor Agreements aligned

“Like a Jigsaw, your EMI scheme “pieces” should fit within your existing company framework seamlessly.  Problems appear when companies grant options that clash with their Articles of Association or their shareholder agreements, or if employee option contracts or if equity promises made to employees are broken through miscommunication or mistake.

“We have seen broken share capital tables and incorrect share option documents wreck the prospect of a company sale and wreck the goodwill between owners and employees. A share option scheme is meant to enhance goodwill, not destroy it.”

5. When it’s time to say goodbye – leaver terms and exits

“Leaver terms are another area where startups often fall short. These provisions govern what happens to options when an employee leaves, whether through resignation, dismissal, illness or death.

“Without clear rules on vesting cut-off points, exercise windows and exit treatment, disputes can quickly crop up. Matters become even more complex if an employee has exercised options and holds shares at the time of a sale.

“If an employee holds even one single share at the time when the Company sells, his or her rights must fit with drag-along, tag-along and warranty arrangements.

“Remember, they will also be a shareholder selling part of the company and will logically see and sign the share purchase agreement you are negotiating.”

6. EMI thresholds are changing, and founders must take note

“Recent Budget changes have expanded EMI thresholds from April 2026, increasing limits on employee numbers, gross assets and the total value of options that can be granted.

“While these changes give growing companies more flexibility, JPP Law warns that founders close to existing thresholds should review their position carefully before launching or expanding an EMI scheme.

“The threshold changes are helpful, but if a company is close to the limits, decisions around hiring, fundraising and option grants can affect EMI eligibility faster than founders expect.”

Wigwam Self Storage launches fully automated, keyless facility in Tewkesbury

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Wigwam Self Storage launches fully automated, keyless facility in Tewkesbury

Wigwam Self Storage has expanded its Gloucestershire footprint with the opening of a new automated, keyless storage facility in Tewkesbury. Situated on Alexandra Way, just off the A46 and close to Junction 9 of the M5, the site offers a modern, secure storage option designed for today’s households and businesses.

The new location is easily accessible for customers travelling from Cheltenham, across Gloucestershire, and into Worcestershire. With generous on-site parking and wide loading bays suitable for cars and vans, the facility caters for everything from personal storage to larger relocations and commercial needs.

The introduction of keyless, app-based access reflects increasing demand for storage solutions that offer flexibility beyond traditional opening hours. By eliminating padlocks and physical keys, customers can access their units securely and conveniently, while the site maintains robust security standards.

Nick Grant, Co-founder and Director of Wigwam Self Storage, commented: “People want storage that fits into their lives, not something that adds friction or hassle. The Tewkesbury site does exactly that. It is secure, simple to use, and accessible, especially for customers who value reliability and peace of mind.”

The facility is equipped with Bluetooth-enabled entry, electronic locks, motion sensors, alarmed units and full CCTV coverage. Customers can book online, manage access digitally and move items in and out without needing to collect keys or purchase padlocks. Flexible rental options are available, with short minimum terms to suit both temporary and long-term storage requirements.

Alongside its advanced technology, Wigwam continues to prioritise customer service. Real-time support is available from the company’s team, ensuring customers can speak directly to an adviser whenever assistance is needed.

The launch of the Tewkesbury site forms part of Wigwam Self Storage’s broader programme to modernise its facilities, aligning secure storage solutions with changing customer expectations while maintaining a strong local focus.

Enhancing safety in commercial properties through asbestos awareness

Helen Greaney
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Enhancing safety in commercial properties through asbestos awareness

Understanding asbestos risks is crucial for maintaining safety in commercial properties. Historically used in construction, asbestos poses significant health threats if not managed properly. Raising awareness and ensuring compliance with regulations can prevent costly repercussions.

Asbestos has long been a component of many building materials due to its durability and resistance to heat. The health risks associated with asbestos have led to stricter regulations and a need for heightened awareness among property managers.

The issue is especially relevant in older buildings where asbestos might still be present. Manchester asbestos removal services are often essential for ensuring these spaces remain safe for occupancy. By understanding where asbestos is likely found and the obligations involved in managing it, property managers can create safer environments for tenants and workers alike.

The hidden dangers of asbestos in commercial buildings

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre once celebrated for its fire-resistant properties and used extensively in construction materials. Exposure to asbestos fibres poses serious health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. These conditions often arise years after exposure, making asbestos a silent but deadly threat within commercial properties. Ensuring tenant safety requires recognising these risks and taking appropriate action to mitigate them.

Commonly, asbestos lurks within insulation materials, roofing shingles, and even textured paints found in older buildings. Identifying its presence requires diligence from property managers who must regularly inspect their properties for potential hazards. Without proper management, these materials can degrade over time, releasing harmful fibres into the air. This highlights the necessity of understanding where asbestos is likely to be found and the importance of conducting thorough inspections to protect the health of all building occupants.

The microscopic nature of asbestos fibres makes them particularly insidious, as they can remain airborne for extended periods and penetrate deep into lung tissue when inhaled. What makes asbestos especially dangerous in commercial settings is the potential for widespread exposure affecting multiple occupants simultaneously.

Renovation or demolition activities can disturb previously stable asbestos materials, exponentially increasing the risk of fibre release. Property managers must be particularly vigilant during any construction work, ensuring that proper testing is conducted before any invasive procedures begin. The latency period between exposure and disease manifestation can span decades, meaning that negligence today could result in serious health consequences for tenants years down the line.

Legal responsibilities of property managers regarding asbestos

Property managers bear significant legal responsibilities when it comes to managing asbestos within commercial spaces. The law mandates that they must assess and manage any asbestos-related risks effectively to ensure safety for all building users.

Failing to comply with these regulations not only endangers lives but also exposes property managers to severe legal penalties. Compliance involves maintaining an up-to-date register of any identified or presumed asbestos-containing materials within the premises.

Health and safety regulations require that property managers conduct regular assessments and take necessary actions if asbestos is discovered. This includes sealing off affected areas or employing professional removal services if needed.

Adhering strictly to these regulations is crucial to avoid costly fines and legal action while ensuring the continued safety of tenants and visitors. Understanding these obligations helps you maintain a safe environment that complies with current standards.

Proactive management strategies to improve tenant safety

Proactively managing asbestos can significantly enhance tenant safety by preventing exposure before it becomes a hazard. Regular inspections and risk assessments are essential strategies in this proactive approach. By identifying potential issues early, you can take corrective measures swiftly, reducing the risk of exposure. This not only protects tenants’ health but also enhances your reputation as a responsible property manager.

Implementing a comprehensive management plan that includes ongoing monitoring and clear communication with tenants about potential risks further strengthens safety measures.

Effective communication ensures that tenants are informed about any existing risks and the steps being taken to manage them. This transparency fosters trust and cooperation between you and your tenants, creating a safer living or working environment for everyone involved.

Innovative techniques transforming asbestos management practices

The field of asbestos management has seen significant advancements in recent years, driven by technology’s role in enhancing safety and efficiency.

Innovations such as advanced detection equipment allow for more precise identification of asbestos-containing materials, reducing guesswork and improving accuracy during inspections. These tools enable quicker responses to potential hazards, thereby minimising risk.

Moreover, modern removal techniques have evolved to become less invasive while effectively mitigating exposure risks during abatement processes. Techniques such as encapsulation or controlled removal under strict safety protocols minimise disturbance to building occupants while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Staying informed about these innovations allows you to implement the most effective strategies in your management practices, ensuring that your commercial properties remain safe for all who use them.

The enduring importance of ongoing education in asbestos awareness

Ongoing education about asbestos remains vital for anyone involved in property management. As regulations evolve and new technologies emerge, staying updated ensures compliance with current standards while enhancing safety protocols within your properties. Regular training sessions or workshops can equip you with the knowledge needed to identify potential hazards promptly.

Encouraging continuous learning among staff members also fosters an environment where safety is prioritised at every level of operation. Asbestos awareness is not just about compliance; it reflects a commitment to providing safe environments for all building users now and into the future. By investing time into education, you contribute positively towards maintaining healthy spaces free from hidden dangers.

Serving up opportunities for young padel players: Consultiv Utilities partners with Jason Manford’s JM Padel Academy

Helen Greaney
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Serving up opportunities for young padel players: Consultiv Utilities partners with Jason Manford’s JM Padel Academy

North East utilities specialist, Consultiv Utilities has announced a new sponsorship partnership with JM Padel Academy for 2026, supporting the academy’s mission to make padel more accessible to children from all backgrounds in the UK.

Founded by comedian Jason Manford, the JM Padel Academy is a non-profit organisation running events, workshops and tournaments designed to introduce underprivileged young people to the sport of padel. In this way, the Academy is helping to widen the reach of one of the country’s fastest growing sports and unearth the next generation of talented players.

Consultiv Utilities’ sponsorship of the JM Padel Academy has been delivered in partnership with The Padel Directory – the UK’s largest online padel platform and community. As official utilities partner the The Padel Directory, Consultiv Utilities is able to help clubs and members save money across their energy, water, waste and connectivity contracts.

Through this initial six-month sponsorship agreement, commencing in January 2026, Consultiv Utilities will help the Academy to fund organised activities with schools and local communities – contributing to the cost of equipment, court hire and training with top coaches.

Speaking on the new sponsorship agreement, Academy founder, Jason Manford, said: “Our goal over the coming years is to get one million kids playing padel from all backgrounds and communities. To do this requires the support of like-minded organisations like Consultiv Utilities who see the value in what we are trying to achieve and are prepared to help us put the resources in place to grow the sport beyond those who can typically afford to play.”

Consultiv Utilities partner channel manager, Liam Barrett, added: “The JM Padel Academy is a fantastic initiative and one that we’re incredibly proud to be a part of at Consultiv Utilities. Thanks to our close work with The Padel Directory and a number of clubs around the UK, we’ve already seen first-hand what an inclusive and engaging sport Padel can be.

“Over the coming months we’re looking forward to playing our role in helping the Academy provide equipment and opportunities that will develop talent and, just as importantly, get young people enjoying the mental and physical benefits of the sport.”

For more information visit: https://consultivutilities.com/jm-padel-academy/

TGG bolsters team with new hires amid strong growth

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TGG bolsters team with new hires amid strong growth
A marketing agency based in Altrincham has announced the appointment of several new hires as it continues a period of sustained growth and expansion.
The hires come at a pivotal time for The Genius Group (TGG), after its move to state-of-the-art headquarters at Foundation on George Street, designed to support the company’s growing team.
Gemma Barlow joined the company in late November as head of people from LADbible Group, where she spent five years in total.
She said: “I’m so happy to be part of the team and can’t wait for what’s ahead, including continuing to build and champion a people-first culture, supporting development, wellbeing and growth and creating and driving meaningful HR initiatives.”
There’s also new faces this January in creative and development, as Ben Herbert joins the company as senior video producer, while Ben Taylor has been hired as a Shopify and e-commerce developer. Georgina Goldman has also joined the Valid8 team as sales administration assistant.
TGG also made other hires in their office support team, development/UX and marketing.
Director Chris Niebel said: “This is an exciting chapter for The Genius Group. Each of our new team members brings a valuable set of skills that will strengthen the business as we continue to deliver high-quality, results-driven lead generation campaigns.
“The move to our new HQ marks a significant investment in our future and these hires are an integral part of that journey.”
Founded by Mr Niebel and his business partner Mark Shephard in 2017, they started with a staff of six but now boast a headcount of more than 40.
This year they are planning to build a team of more than 100.
Their expertise in digital marketing and technology has positioned the company as a leader in the industry and they have driven more than £2.3billion in sales for clients over the past three years.
The team are also proud to support a number of philanthropic endeavours, with charity donations recently hitting the £100,000 mark.
This includes working closely with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the charity SameYou and they celebrated the grand opening of their new offices with a £42,000 donation to Manchester-based Prevent Breast Cancer.

5 Ways clean energy loans support net-zero goals and ESG commitments

Helen Greaney
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5 Ways clean energy loans support net-zero goals and ESG commitments

Now that the world has shifted to a more carbon-conscious future, industries are pressured to reduce their environmental impact and align with global climate targets.

Many organisations have relied on traditional business models that have prioritised efficiency and output over sustainably, and their environmental consequences have become increasingly difficult to ignore.

However, a lot of businesses are struggling to integrate more sustainable solutions into their operations. Their decades-long reliance on conventional approaches has inevitably created barriers that slow the adoption of greener practices.

Fortunately, many financial institutions are providing innovative funding mechanisms to support this transition. Clean energy loans, for instance, bridge the gap between sustainability and economic practicality.

Such financing solutions offer organisations the means to invest in greener technologies
without disrupting their financial structures.

But in what ways can these loans drive tangible progress? How are they different from ordinary business loans?

Here are some insights about the important role of clean energy loans in advancing long-term sustainability, as well as how they strengthen accountability across industries:

1) Clean Energy Loans Help Fund Renewable Energy Projects

Organisations often face significant financial hurdles when considering large-scale renewable energy initiatives. Projects such as solar arrays, wind turbines, or geothermal installations demand substantial upfront investment, which can deter many businesses despite long-term benefits.

Clean energy loans provide access to capital that removes this barrier. With enough funds to cover installation, maintenance, and related infrastructure costs, organisations can commit to renewable solutions without destabilising existing budgets.

Beyond immediate energy generation, these investments also foster long-term resilience. Renewable energy projects reduce exposure to fluctuating fossil fuel prices, support regulatory compliance, and generate measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Moreover, such projects can become revenue streams through mechanisms, like feed-in tariffs or renewable energy certificates, over time—thus further aligning an organisation’s financial and environmental goals.

2) Clean Energy Loans Facilitate Clean Transportation Transition

The transport sector is a major contributor to global emissions, and many companies rely on fleets that consume fossil fuels. One way to reduce their carbon footprint and meet sustainability targets is to switch to electric or hybrid vehicles, but the process is often costly and logistically complex.

Clean energy financing provides the resources needed to purchase low-emission vehicles. It also gives organisations the flexibility to install charging infrastructure and plan their fleet electrification strategically.

In addition to reducing carbon footprints, this approach can help enhance operational efficiency through lower maintenance and fuel costs. Through this method, businesses can scale their efforts without disrupting operations or straining cash flow.

3) Clean Energy Loans Support Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Operational energy consumption is one of the largest sources of emissions for many businesses. It accounts for a significant share of overall energy use, as many organisations operate energy-intensive machinery and equipment.

Upgrading lighting, HVAC systems, or manufacturing equipment to more energy-efficient alternatives can reduce costs and emissions simultaneously. With a clean energy loan,
businesses can make the updates financially feasible, since the upfront expenditure is covered without straining existing budgets.

Apart from providing the funds to implement these upgrades, clean energy loans also allow
organisations to spread the cost over time. Loans typically come with repayment terms that are often structured to correspond with projected energy savings, which means the financial burden is balanced by reduced operational costs. This approach also ensures that efficiency improvements aren’t only environmentally responsible but also economically sustainable, allowing businesses to invest in long- term sustainability solutions with confidence.

4) Clean Energy Loans Allow for Energy Storage and Grid Resilience

One of the challenges many businesses face in adopting renewable energy is finding a reliable energy supply. They’re concerned that issues, such as the intermittency of renewable energy sources and fluctuating grid demand, can cause potential disruptions to their operations.

Investment in energy storage solutions can be the answer to these challenges. Rechargeable flow batteries, solid-state batteries, and mechanical energy storage allow organisations to store surplus power and maintain consistent operations even when generation is low.

In addition to improving operational reliability, these systems can position organisations to participate in emerging energy markets, such as demand response programmes or peak energy trading. Clean energy loans can facilitate this transition by providing businesses with the capital they need to overcome the high initial cost of storage technologies.

5) Clean Energy Loans Enhance ESG Performance and Sustainable Investment

Investor and regulatory expectations increasingly demand that companies demonstrate measurable ESG outcomes, and with clean energy loans, organisations can implement projects that improve their sustainability performance.

Since these financing methods enable organisations to fund initiatives that
deliver clear environmental benefits, they can meet compliance requirements more effectively and strengthen their ESG reporting.

These types of loans also open pathways to additional sustainable finance options. Companies that show tangible progress on ESG metrics can access green bonds, sustainability-linked loans, or other climate-aligned investment instruments, often on more favourable terms. With more reliable access to sustainable capital, organisations can expand their green initiatives and integrate responsible practices across operations.

All in all, clean energy loans provide businesses with the resources to invest in sustainable solutions without compromising operational stability. They also support measurable progress toward environmental goals while reinforcing accountability to stakeholders.

Beyond financing individual projects, these loans help organisations align long-term strategy with responsible practices and emerging market expectations. Thoughtful use of such financial tools enables businesses to accelerate the transition to a more resilient and future-ready business model.

Research warns workload pressures rising as only 64% of staff feel able to cope

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Research warns workload pressures rising as only 64% of staff feel able to cope

New research into employee experience has found that workload continues to be a major concern, with just 64% of employees saying they can comfortably manage their responsibilities.

The findings highlight growing imbalances between workload, wellbeing and work-life balance, and the impact this is having on engagement, performance and staff retention. This is happening despite rapid AI adoption across workplaces, raising questions about whether technology is easing pressure or simply enabling more work to be done.

The insight comes from People Insight’s newly published Employee Experience Trends 2026 report, an annual study exploring the current state of employee experience and the trends shaping the year ahead.

The report draws on global benchmark data from millions of employee survey responses, supported by wider workplace research and expert consultancy analysis. This provides a detailed and practical view of how employees experience work today and what organisations need to focus on next.

The 2026 report identifies four major trends expected to shape employee experience in the year ahead:

  • Trust, transparency and fair decision-making
  • Workplace connection and loneliness
  • Workload, role design and skills development
  • The growing influence of AI on capacity and daily working life

Alongside the workload findings, the report highlights a series of additional warning signs.

Key insights include:

  • Only 64% of employees feel able to cope comfortably with their workload
  • Engagement sits at 79%, unchanged year on year, masking rising pressure
  • Open communication has dropped from 60% to 53% in one year
  • Only 63% feel senior leaders offer a clear sense of direction
  • Just 61% feel leaders genuinely listen
  • 63% believe they have opportunities to learn and grow

Tom Debenham, Founder of People Insight, said: “When people consistently feel overloaded, it affects everything, from wellbeing and engagement through to trust in leadership and long-term commitment. What this data shows is that organisations cannot afford to treat workload as a side issue. It sits right at the heart of the employee experience.”

The Employee Experience Trends 2026 report offers practical guidance to help organisations respond to these challenges and take confident action.

The report is recommended reading for HR professionals, leaders and anyone responsible for employee experience or organisational culture.

Download the report at peopleinsight.co.uk/trends-report-2026.

Vision One Research reaffirmed as industry leader with ISO 20252 re-accreditation

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Vision One Research reaffirmed as industry leader with ISO 20252 re-accreditation

Vision One, a leading market research agency in the North West, has once again achieved re-accreditation to the ISO 20252 international standard for market, opinion and social research. The achievement highlights the company’s ongoing focus on quality, strong governance and ethical research practices.

ISO 20252 is recognised globally as the benchmark for research quality. It requires independent assessment of how organisations design studies, manage projects, control quality, handle data and report findings. Vision One’s successful re-accreditation confirms its consistent application of these rigorous standards across all research operations.

Robert Crosby, spokesperson at Citation ISO Certification, commented: “Vision One Research has once again demonstrated a strong and consistent application of ISO 20252 requirements across its research operations. The audit highlighted robust quality management processes, well-embedded ethical standards and a clear commitment to continuous improvement. This successful re-accreditation reflects Vision One Research’s professionalism and dedication to delivering high-quality research outcomes for its clients.”

The agency also holds accreditation from the Good Business Charter, demonstrating its commitment to ethical, responsible and sustainable business conduct. Together, these credentials reflect Vision One’s belief that trusted insight must be underpinned by strong values and accountability.

Alex Brown [pictured], Director of Insights at Vision One, said: “Maintaining ISO 20252 accreditation is a key priority for us. It provides our clients with confidence in the robustness, consistency and integrity of the insights we deliver. Alongside our Good Business Charter accreditation, it reflects the values that guide how we work and how we support our clients.”

This latest re-accreditation further strengthens Vision One’s standing as a trusted partner for organisations seeking high-quality, ethical and internationally validated research.

New driving lesson marketplace launches amid driving instructor shortage

Helen Greaney
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New driving lesson marketplace launches amid driving instructor shortage

Drawing on nearly a decade of experience in driving tuition through PassMeFast, CAPSIL has launched Instruct Me, a new marketplace designed to help ease the ongoing DVSA backlogs and modernise how people learn to drive.

Now live in Manchester, Instruct Me will expand across the UK later this year.

The launch comes at a crucial time for the industry. During the COVID-19 pandemic,
driving tests were suspended across the UK, leading to severe delays. This created
unprecedented demand for driving instructors, with a national survey last year finding
that:
* 56.4% of instructors have a wait list
* 63.4% of instructors have no availability for lessons
* More than 70% of instructors in Scotland, the North East and North West have no
availability for lessons
* 15% of all instructors with wait lists said they won’t be available for over a
year.

With more learner drivers waiting than ever, the DVSA are actively recruiting driving
instructors. However, limited availability for driving instructor tests has resulted in just
a 3.46 % increase of ADIs since in the last year.

Instruct Me connects learner drivers with Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) in their
area, offering tools to compare and choose the right fit. Each instructor profile is verified by Instruct Me, and only DVSA-approved ADIs can list on the platform.

Each profile includes verified learner reviews, a photo, biography and a transparent hourly
rate. This helps learners to make an informed choice based on what matters to them.
This could be price, reputation, vehicle or teaching style.

A centralised marketplace displaying available driving instructors is a key part of reducing the bottleneck. The DVSA’s public driving instructor register is optional to join and only displays the instructor’s name, contact details and ADI grade.

For learners, making an informed decision is critical, yet comparing driving instructors is
challenging when the most important information isn’t available.

One of Instruct Me’s first learner drivers, Moreen Horsfield, said: “Due to long wait times for tests near Liphook where I’m from, I booked my practical test in Leeds. I didn’t know anyone there, so Instruct Me was the perfect platform to find a credible instructor for lessons before my test. My instructor explained things clearly, helped me feel confident—and I’m pleased to say I passed!”

The platform also brings a digital edge to a traditionally offline industry. According to the DVSA’s 2024 survey of driving instructors, 68.2% of instructors still take cash payments, 4% accept cheques, and only 8.8% use payment apps.

Instruct Me offers digital payments, in-app messaging and online scheduling that today’s learner drivers expect, whilst easing the administrative burden on driving instructors.

By bridging this gap, Instruct Me is helping modernise the experience for both learners
and instructors, making driving lessons simpler, smarter and more connected.

Nicholas Dear, CEO of CAPSIL, said: “Learner drivers have waited years for a more modern and transparent way to book driving lessons. The shortage of instructors with lack of availability often means learners choose the first person they find and overlook the importance of choosing the right instructor – a decision that can cost them time, confidence, and even test success.

“Instruct Me is designed to ease pressure on the system by helping learners make informed choices from the start, with tools to compare instructors and find the best fit first time. This launch is part of CAPSIL’s ongoing commitment to modernise the driving tuition industry and creating smarter, more connected solutions for learners and instructors.”

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