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Franchising in the UK Boosted by Poundland Founder

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Franchising in the UK Boosted by Poundland Founder

Steven Smith, the founder of Poundland, is backing an ambitious initiative to promote the growth of franchising across the UK. The initiative, known as Franchise Angels, was established by Joel Bissitt, a prominent entrepreneur and the founder of Infinity Business Growth Network, Franchise UK & the Quality Franchise Association.

Joining the effort are Ian Townsend, COO of the Quality Franchise Association and a specialist in franchising law, along with Steven Smith. Franchise Angels will focus on investing in businesses that have established successful operations and possess strong branding. Selected business owners will receive comprehensive franchising support, help with day-to-day operations, and guidance on exit strategies. Entrepreneurs will be invited to pitch their ideas to the Franchise Angels at a “Dragons’ Den” inspired event after successfully applying.

Speaking about the initiative, Joel Bissitt said: “We have a great combination of skills & experience in our team including investing, legal & franchising. I am delighted that someone of Steven’s stature is supporting this initiative, supporting the growth of small businesses & flying the flag for UK entrepreneurship.”

Steven Smith commented: “Success is not just about what you accomplish in your life, it’s about what you inspire others to do. I am therefore delighted to support this project & look forward to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs.”

Fire festival returns to Rochdale this weekend for Christmas lights switch-on

Helen Greaney
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Fire festival returns to Rochdale this weekend for Christmas lights switch-on

Hot news around Rochdale this week is that final preparations are under way for Ignite Fire Festival taking place in Rochdale town centre from November 22 – November 24, leading up to the Christmas lights switch-on at the town hall.

Ignite will be transforming the gardens opposite Rochdale Town Hall with three free night-time spectacular shows delivering a magical trail of fire, lights for all the family along with plenty of live entertainment from 5pm to 8pm.

The event, sponsored by car supermarket The Trade Centre UK, will feature fiery displays, blazing sculptures and illuminated installations created by artists and pyro technicians from multi-award winning outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank will be open to walk through each evening.

Father Christmas and his special guests, including the Mayor of Rochdale, Shakil Ahmed, and Middleton Arena pantomime stars Castle Clown and Princess Beauty will switch-on the lights from 5.30pm on Sunday in front of the town hall after the traditional countdown, before the Fire Festival continues until 8pm.

In addition to an assortment of amazing blazing displays each evening, a fire drawing designed and made by local residents will be ignited alongside flaming hot performances from some of the UK’s top talent including Flame Oz – a thrilling fire dancing and juggling show. Liverpool’s Bring the Fire Project will also be performing.

Street theatre and interactive arts group Travelling Light Circus who got a fantastic reception from the crowds last year will be returning too. Look out for Astro Aliens – a quirky trio of cosmic beings that children will love to watch and ‘Drum Machine’ – a 20-strong drumming collective, who’ll be bringing their techno infused beats to the event.

And if that’s not enough, The Fire Man Dave is performing his live fire show, featuring fire eating, juggling and much amazement. Awe-inspiring performers from local favourites Skylight Circus Arts will be adding fuel to the fire. Their first act each evening features ‘Fireflies,’ their new community fire spinning group, made up of 12 adult beginners trained by Travelling Light Circus. Their second performance will showcase some of their Teen Youth Circus, performing their newly acquired fire spinning circus skills.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “Our Ignite Fire Festival and Christmas Lights Switch-On will be lighting up Rochdale once again, transforming the gardens and Esplanade next to the town hall into an exciting wonderland, bringing light to those dark November evenings and communities together in what we hope will be our most dynamic show yet.”

Ignite is organised by Rochdale Borough Council in partnership with Walk the Plank and Culture Co-op, a ‘Creative People and Places’ programme, funded by Arts Council England.

Unlock the potential of your property with property refurbishment finance

Helen Greaney
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Unlock the potential of your property with property refurbishment finance

Owning a property is an exciting achievement, but sometimes, the real work begins after the sale is complete.

Whether you’ve purchased a fixer-upper, inherited an outdated family home, or want to revamp your current residence, tackling a property refurbishment project can be both rewarding and challenging. Most importantly, you’d need finance to do this. 

A financial boost is possible

One of the biggest hurdles homeowners and investors face is securing the necessary financing to fund their renovation plans. Traditional mortgage options may not provide flexibility or the speed required to complete these projects. This is where specialised property refurbishment solutions can make all the difference.

Understanding property refurbishment loans

Property refurbishment loans are also known as renovation or rehab loans. These are short-term financing designed to help homeowners and investors unlock the property’s full potential. These loans provide access to capital that can be used to cover the costs of renovations, repairs, conversions, and other improvement projects.

“Refurbishment finance borrowers can transform a property and ultimately increase its value,” explains Gary Hemming, a seasoned Finance Expert at ABC Finance. 

Whether you’re looking to modernise an outdated home, convert a commercial space, or breathe new life into an investment property, these flexible financing solutions can help make it happen.

How it differs from a traditional loan

Unlike standard mortgages, property refurbishment loans are assessed primarily on the post-renovation value of the property. This is convenient for borrowers as there’s no need for perfect credit or a substantial deposit to qualify. Lenders are more focused on the viability and profitability of the project itself and the value afterwards.

Advantages of refurbishment financing

A key benefit of property refurbishment finance is speed. The application and approval process is typically much faster than traditional routes, allowing borrowers to act quickly on opportunities. This is particularly important for investors working to tight deadlines, such as buying at auction or completing a time-sensitive development.

Time is often of the essence when it comes to property refurbishment, says Hemming, “Refurbishment loans give borrowers the ability to secure funds and get to work immediately, rather than waiting weeks or months for a standard mortgage application process.”

Easier, flexible terms

Refurbishment lenders are usually willing to structure the financing to suit the borrower’s specific needs, whether that’s interest-only payments, deferred repayment schedules, or other customised terms. This can help optimise cash flow and ensure the project remains financially viable.

More providers available

Additionally, property refurbishment finance is often accessible to a wider range of borrowers compared to conventional mortgages. Lenders may be more willing to overlook less-than-perfect credit histories or limited access to large deposits, as long as the property’s post-renovation value provides sufficient security.

Costs and considerations

Running the numbers and weighing the costs is a crucial part of the planning process. Even though these types of loans can be huge game changers, for the right project, the higher interest rates and fees need to be factored into the overall budget. 

Consider the laws and regulations that revolve around property renovations before starting a project. 

Some disadvantages 

Greater risk of default

The higher costs and shorter timelines increase the risk of the borrower defaulting on repayments, which could result in the lender taking possession of the property.

Less flexibility on repayments 

Unlike a standard mortgage, refurbishment loans often have less flexibility on things like overpayments and repayment schedules. Missing a payment could trigger penalties or even foreclosure.

Limited to property-backed loans

Refurbishment finance is only available for projects secured against a physical property. The loan can’t be used for renovations or improvements outside the property appointed or tied to real estate.

Convenience at a price 

Property refurbishment funds with ABC Finance provide a valuable tool for homeowners, investors and developers looking to unlock and improve their properties. With a refurbishment loan, an old, outdated property can transform into a world-class abode or office space and make three or four times as much when resold. 

Teenager arrested following robbery offences in Oldham

Helen Greaney
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Teenager arrested following robbery offences in Oldham

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of robbery, as officers continue to investigate a series of nine reported knife point robberies targeting those on e-bikes and delivery drivers in Oldham.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place between October 7 and October 13 in the Ripponden Road and Waterhead areas.

Officers were quick to respond and immediately launched an investigation, supporting each of the victims. One victim received minor physical injuries.

Four cars and one motorbike have also been returned to their rightful owners.

The boy remains in custody for questioning.

This arrest comes during a national intensification week tackling knife crime and knife-enabled robbery.

Three other youths, two boys and girl aged 14-16, have been charged in relation to these incidents and are on court bail whilst they await their next court appearance.

Detective inspector Mike Ogiliev, who is leading the investigation, said: “This concerning set of reports very quickly was identified by us as being a linked series.

“We have had increased visible patrols since the first incidents to provide reassurance to the local community, and the victims have been supported throughout.

“Tackling robbery, particularly those that come with violence or threats of violence, is very important to us.

“If anyone has any information about these or similar incidents which you think could help our investigations, please contact Oldham Neighbourhood Crime team on 0161 856 8911, quoting Op Northeast. We are taking these incidents seriously and will act on any viable information.”

Across Greater Manchester, knife-enabled robbery offences have seen reductions from approximately 100 incidents per month to 97 in the last 12 months.

Marketing agency launches Christmas campaign to tackle decline in young readers 

Helen Greaney
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Marketing agency launches Christmas campaign to tackle decline in young readers 

Agent has donated over £50,000 worth of children’s books since launching All You Read is Love in 2020 and is hoping 2024 will be the campaign’s biggest year yet.

The North West marketing agency is spreading the gift of reading this Christmas following a concerning report from the National Literacy Trust.

Agent, which has studios in Liverpool and Manchester, launched its All You Read is Love campaign in 2020 and has donated over £50,000 of brand-new books to underprivileged children across the region over the last four years, including works from well-known authors, emerging talent and voices from BAME and LGBTQ+ communities.

Last month, the National Literacy Trust (NLT) published research claiming just one-in-five children read in their free time, and only one-in-three children enjoy reading for pleasure. This data is the lowest on record for the NLT.

“The declining levels of reading enjoyment and reading frequency are, frankly, shocking and dispiriting,” NLT chief executive Jonathan Douglas said.

In collaboration with clients and partners, All You Read is Love is a cherished tradition for Agent. The business has expanded its partnerships with charities, community organisations and schools to ensure donated books reach the young minds who need them most.

For the second year, Agent will continue to receive support and donations from Publiship, a leading logistics provider to the printing and publishing industry with access to more than 2,500 agents worldwide.

As ever, Agent is dedicated to supporting independent booksellers as well as new authors and writers from underrepresented groups, hand-delivering books in time for Christmas!

Paul Corcoran, Agent CEO and founder, said: “All You Read is Love is our favourite part of year at Agent. The campaign embodies the spirit of giving that defines Agent all year round.

“After the concerning research published by the National Literacy Trust, All You Read is Love is more important than ever. There is a real need to put the magic of books into the hands of young people.

“For 2024, we want to share the joy of reading with communities that need it most and make it a Christmas to remember for the children in our regions. And to reach more young people, we are asking north west businesses to get involved too”

If you or your business would like to donate to the campaign, Agent is accepting new books at their Liverpool and Manchester studios. Books need to be sent or delivered no later than December 9, 2024.

Plast Eurasia 2024 Showcases Sustainability and Bioplastic Innovation

News Desk
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Plast Eurasia 2024 Showcases Sustainability and Bioplastic Innovation

Plast Eurasia Istanbul 2024 will return to the Tüyap Fair and Congress Centre from 4th to 7th December 2024, bringing the global plastics industry together to explore the latest innovations. With over 1,500 exhibitors and 70,000 visitors expected, the 33rd edition of this fair promises to set new standards in the industry.

Organised by Tüyap Fair Group in partnership with PAGEV (Turkish Plastic Industry Research, Development and Education Foundation), the event will emphasise sustainability, featuring bioplastics as a key focus. Among the highlights will be bioplastic cups made from recycled coffee grounds, showcasing practical solutions for a greener future.

Visitors will also have access to Hall 12A, a newly introduced space dedicated to bioplastic technologies, providing insights into the future of sustainable materials in the plastics industry.

Diverse range of products
“Plast Eurasia Istanbul is not only a commercial event but also a platform for exploring the sustainable innovations that will shape the future of our industry. We are proud to highlight bioplastics this year as part of our commitment to fostering environmentally friendly solutions,” said a Tüyap spokesperson.
The event will present a diverse range of products, including plastic machinery, machine equipment, molds, recycling technologies, raw materials, and chemicals, allowing visitors to experience advancements across all facets of the industry. International participation remains robust, with delegates from Europe and MENA, especially from countries such as Germany, Denmark, Iran, Russia, and China, underscoring Plast Eurasia Istanbul’s role as a global industry hub.
Interactive spaces and quiz points 
Newly added Hall 12A will provide a unique, interactive experience for visitors. In a special area dedicated to bioplastics, attendees can discover how coffee pulp is recycled into reusable products, gaining insight into the environmental benefits of bioplastics. Visitors can also participate in a quiz at the fair’s foyer, where correct answers earn vouchers for coffee, inviting them to sample sustainable coffee cups in action.
Plast Eurasia Istanbul, the largest plastics fair in Eurasia, is a key event, offering significant commercial and technological opportunities for exhibitors and visitors alike across Europe and MENA. The fair aims to drive the industry forward, opening pathways for new partnerships and promoting innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.

Luke Littler storms to Grand Slam of Darts victory

Mitch Fretton
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Luke Littler storms to Grand Slam of Darts victory

Luke Littler delivered a stunning performance to secure the 2024 Grand Slam of Darts title, defeating Martin Lukeman 16-3.

Although Lukeman started strong, claiming the first two legs, Littler quickly responded.

With two breaks of throw, a brilliant 124 checkout, and an 11-dart leg, the 17-year-old seized control, racing to a 3-2 lead with an average exceeding 110.

From there, Littler displayed unrelenting dominance, reeling off eight consecutive legs to establish an 8-2 advantage, leaving Lukeman struggling to find answers.

As chants of “There is only one Luke Littler” echoed throughout Wolverhampton, the teenager continued to dazzle the crowd.

Key finishes, including a 100 checkout on double 10 and a pin-perfect double 12, extended his lead to 10-2. Littler was just five legs away from securing the title in record time.

Littler’s momentum seemed unstoppable, as he clinched an extraordinary 13 legs in a row, putting him on the brink of victory within just 35 minutes.

Lukeman managed to halt the streak momentarily, capitalizing on Littler’s missed 170 checkout to bring the score to 15-3, celebrating the solitary leg with humour and drawing cheers from the audience.

However, Littler wasted no time in sealing the victory, nailing double six to complete a remarkable campaign and claim the Eric Bristow Trophy.

The triumph marks Littler’s first-ever major TV ranking final, an extraordinary achievement in his debut year as a professional.

Across the tournament, Littler hit a record-breaking 60 180s, underlining his exceptional talent and making the victory even more memorable.

Have your say on how nature recovery is prioritised in Greater Manchester

Helen Greaney
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Have your say on how nature recovery is prioritised in Greater Manchester

Those in Greater Manchester are invited to have their say on ambitious proposals to protect green spaces and support the natural environment for generations to come.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is asking people to give their views on the city-region’s first Local Nature Recovery Strategy, which has been developed to address the loss of nature and biodiversity across Greater Manchester in recent decades.

Nature in Greater Manchester comes in all shapes and sizes – from urban parks and gardens to rivers and canals, nature reserves and wilder upland areas.

A healthy natural environment is fundamental to Greater Manchester’s sustained economic growth, as well as the health and wellbeing of everyone living and working in the city-region.

Everyone benefits from nature – and when all this is added together, Greater Manchester gets £1 billion of benefits from the natural environment each year.

But nature is being lost around the globe and locally in every area of Greater Manchester. The severity of the situation was recognised by the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, and the GMCA declared a biodiversity emergency in 2022.

Despite these challenges, nature can recover – particularly when it’s given a helping hand. Working with local partners from across the city-region, the GMCA has developed the first Greater Manchester Plan for Nature.

The plan will be the foundation for nature’s recovery in Greater Manchester, outlining how to make space for nature where it’s needed most. It sets out a vision to deliver a resilient network for nature across the city-region, connecting and enhancing wild spaces so that people and nature can thrive.

Councillor Tom Ross, Greater Manchester Lead for Green City-region, said: “Nature is fundamental to the success of Greater Manchester, but it is abundantly clear that it needs our help. We can all do more to improve the state of nature across the city-region and protect green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

“A range of projects are already beginning to put nature at their heart, from the restoration of wilder areas in our uplands and lowlands to nature-conscious design in new housing and commercial developments, in our civic squares and parks, and along our streets. All of these demonstrate the positive impact we can have when different organisations, community groups and individuals come together to help nature recover.

“But we need to do more, which is why we declared a biodiversity emergency. Our new plan for nature will sit at the heart of our drive for nature recovery, providing a roadmap for how we can all work together to help nature recover and where we need to focus our efforts to have the biggest impact. I would urge all residents to have their say here so we can help our nature recover together.”

Drop-in sessions will be held at the following venues:

  • Town Hall Atrium, Wigan: Nov 18, 1pm-4pm
  • Number One Riverside, Rochdale: Nov 19, 12pm-4pm
  • Central Library, Manchester: Nov 20, 11am-3pm
  • Stockport Town Hall: Nov 22, 9.30am-1.30pm
  • Spindles Shopping Centre, Oldham: Nov 26, 1pm-4pm
  • Salford Suite, Civic Centre, Swinton: Nov 29, 1pm-5pm
  • Library Community Room, Tameside One: Dec 4, 11am-3pm
  • Sale Library, Trafford: Jan 6, 11am-2pm
  • Moss Bank Café, Bolton: Jan 7, 10am-1pm
  • Mill Gate Shopping Centre, Bury: Jan 8, 1pm-4pm

Mark King banned from snooker until 2028

Tom Rostance
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Mark King banned from snooker until 2028

Mark King has been banned from snooker for five years after being found guilty of match fixing.

An independent disciplinary committee found the 50-year-old former world number 11 guilty of one count of match fixing and one count of providing inside information on a match.

The former Northern Ireland Open champion was suspended by the sport’s world governing body, the WPBSA, in March 2023 after suspicious betting was reported on his match with Joe Perry in the previous month’s Welsh Open.

King, who denied the charges, has also been ordered to pay £68,299.50 in costs. He has until November 28 to appeal against the decision.

Two other charges relating to King’s match with John Higgins on December 13, 2022 were dismissed.

WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson said: “The global expansion of this sport brings with it great responsibility, both for our players and for the WPBSA as the sport’s world governing body.

“I have known Mark King since he was very young, he is a very experienced player who has enjoyed great success, and I am deeply saddened to read the finding in this case.

“However, the integrity of this sport will always be our number one priority.

“This case is testament to the fact that no stone will ever be left unturned in ensuring that the hundreds of millions of snooker fans worldwide, and our many global partners, can have full confidence in this incredible sport.”

King’s ban runs from March 18, 2023 to March 17, 2028.

EU Highlights European Food and Drink Excellence in UK

News Desk
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EU Highlights European Food and Drink Excellence in UK

The European Union has launched a communication campaign to highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of European food and drink products to UK food industry professionals. The initiative focuses on promoting the EU’s strengths in safety, sustainability, authenticity, and quality.

Named More Than Only Food and Drink, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the standout characteristics of EU food and beverages, distinguishing them from global competitors.

The campaign highlights six primary product categories: processed meats like charcuterie, salami, and sausages; fresh meats including poultry, beef, and lamb; dairy and cheese; fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables; bakery and confectionery; and wine, spirits, and beers.

A panel of UK-based category advisors has been appointed to communicate the EU’s commitment to food safety, high standards, and environmental care. They will also raise awareness of EU quality assurance labels, including Protected Denomination of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and EU Organic.

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The campaign offers UK professionals a variety of opportunities to engage with EU food and drink products, including trade exhibitions, seminars on sustainability, industry-focused roundtables, and innovation showcases. Study trips to EU countries will provide hands-on exposure to production processes.

A robust earned and paid media campaign will amplify the initiative’s messaging, ensuring it reaches a wide audience across the UK.

Patrick McGuigan, cheese writer and campaign advisor, explained: “This campaign aims to highlight the remarkable quality and diversity of food and drink made in the 27 Member States of the EU. From sustainable farming and traditional production practices to the EU Quality Labels scheme and strong food safety and traceability standards, the EU produces food and drink that is not only delicious, but is also rooted in cultural heritage, time-honoured traditions and innovation. As the campaign strapline says, it’s ‘More Than Only Food and Drink.’”

“The ultimate aim is to encourage the imports, use and sales of authentic EU agricultural food and beverage products in the UK.”
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