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Manchester Pride launches pioneering Coming Out at Work policy

It’s National Coming Out Day today – and Manchester Pride is proud to announce the launch of a pioneering Coming Out at Work policy, aimed at creating more inclusive workplaces.

With LGBTQ+ employees facing alarming levels of discrimination – 63% have experienced workplace discrimination, and 44% have left jobs due to a lack of acceptance – this policy addresses a critical need for more inclusive and supportive workplaces.

Unlike existing equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) frameworks, Manchester Pride’s Coming Out at Work policy provides specific guidance for employers to proactively support LGBTQ+ staff in the workplace. Recent statistics underline the urgency:

  • 1 in 3 LGBTQ+ employees have been harassed or bullied at work.

  • 45% of LGBTQ+ individuals have been overlooked for promotions.

  • 70% feel lonely, misunderstood, or excluded at work.

  • The LGBTQ+ pay gap sits at 16%.

Mark Fletcher, CEO of Manchester Pride, said: “This new policy is a much-needed resource, that not only raises awareness but also actively contributes to the creation of safer, more inclusive environments where employees can bring their authentic selves to work.

“We believe that everyone should feel safe and supported in the workplace. Our Coming Out at Work policy is a crucial step in ensuring that LGBTQ+ employees not only have the confidence to come out but can thrive in their work environment without fear of discrimination.”

To promote the new policy, Manchester Pride has developed a Supporting LGBTQ+ Staff with Coming Out in the Workplace guide, available as a free downloadable resource. The guide offers actionable steps for employers, including:

  • Proactive measures to create an inclusive environment.

  • Legal guidance on the importance of safeguarding LGBTQ+ identities, especially regarding the dangers and illegality of ‘outing’ without consent.

  • Case studies of those who share how being out at work has transformed professional lives.

For LGBTQ+ employees, coming out is more than just a personal decision – it can be a key factor in their job satisfaction and career development. Research shows that employees who are ‘out’ at work are more likely to:

  • Trust their employer (47% vs. 21% of closeted employees).

  • Have an entrepreneurial spirit (35% vs. 23% of closeted employees).

  • Feel satisfied with promotion opportunities (64% vs. 48% of closeted employees).

Moreover, ‘out’ employers are more loyal to their employer, with 70% stating loyalty compared to 60% of closeted peers.

The Coming Out at Work policy forms part of Manchester Pride’s wider All Equals Charter, which supports businesses in developing long-term, sustainable LGBTQ+ inclusion strategies.

Image credit: Bardhok Ndoji 

Millers Roofing Services Limited Launches New Website with Improved Features for Enhanced Customer Experience

Millers Roofing Services Limited, a leading roofing contractor serving Cumbria and the Lake District, is excited to announce the launch of its newly revamped website, www.millersroofing.co.uk. With a focus on creating a more user-friendly experience, the site now features a blog, AI-powered live chat, and a seasonal newsletter to improve customer engagement and provide useful information for homeowners.

In keeping with the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, the new website has been designed with easy navigation and mobile responsiveness in mind. Homeowners can now effortlessly browse roofing services, request quotes, and access expert roofing advice from both desktop and mobile devices.

Joanne Miller, CAO of Millers Roofing Services Limited, expressed her excitement for the enhanced website:

“We’re thrilled to offer a fresh, updated website that makes it easier for our customers to connect with us and learn more about our services. The new blog will allow us to share valuable home maintenance and roofing advice, while the AI-powered live chat feature ensures that our team is just a click away when customers need answers or assistance.”

Key Features of the New Website:

  • AI-Powered Live Chat: Customers can now interact with an AI assistant to get instant responses to their enquiries, book callbacks, and access service information in real-time.
  • Informative Blog: The website’s blog will provide regular updates, offering expert advice on roof maintenance, preparing homes for different seasons, and choosing the best roofing options for specific needs.
  • Expanded Services Overview: The website now includes a detailed breakdown of Millers Roofing’s services, from slate and tile roofing to flat roofs and UPVC installations, as well as specialised services such as loft conversions and Velux window installations.
  • Mobile-Friendly Design: The redesigned website is optimised for mobile devices, allowing users to browse services and reach out to Millers Roofing via their smartphones or tablets with ease.
  • Seasonal Newsletter: Starting with the Autumn Is Finally Here! edition, the new quarterly newsletter offers tailored home maintenance tips to help homeowners stay on top of their roofing care all year round.

The relaunch of the website reflects Millers Roofing’s dedication to improving customer care and accessibility. With features like a blog and AI-powered live chat, Millers Roofing is taking proactive steps to engage with homeowners and address their queries quickly and professionally.

Blog Topics Include:

  • What to Do If Your Roof Starts Leaking: Emergency Tips for Homeowners in Cumbria
  • How to Prepare Your Home for Winter in Cumbria
  • How to Spot Roof Problems Before They Become Major Issues

Additionally, visitors can explore Millers Roofing’s YouTube channel, which features content such as:

  • “How to Spot Roof Damage”
  • Before and After Videos like “Transform Your Conservatory into a Warm Roof”, showcasing the results of Millers Roofing’s projects

These resources aim to educate homeowners and provide practical advice on maintaining their properties.

For more information or to explore the newly redesigned website, please visit www.millersroofing.co.uk.

ScoreApp Acquires Bucket.io to Strengthen Interactive Marketing Tools

ScoreApp®, a renowned platform for interactive quizzes and surveys, is pleased to announce its acquisition of Bucket.io®, a US-based company that specialises in marketing funnel software and lead generation tools. This move signals a key milestone in ScoreApp’s plan to broaden its range of marketing solutions and provide businesses with a more powerful toolset for enhancing customer engagement.

The integration of Bucket.io’s marketing funnel capabilities with ScoreApp’s interactive platform will allow businesses to deliver more personalised and engaging customer journeys. Together, the two companies will provide a comprehensive solution for lead capture, nurturing, and conversion, giving businesses a significant edge in their marketing efforts.

Daniel Priestley and Steven Oddy, Co-Founders of ScoreApp, expressed their excitement in a joint statement: “We are thrilled to welcome Bucket.io into the ScoreApp family. Their expertise in building high-converting marketing funnels perfectly complements our mission to help businesses connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. Together, we will set new standards for customer engagement and lead generation.”

As part of the acquisition, Ryan Levesque, co-founder of Bucket.io, will join ScoreApp as a Strategic Advisor, Brand Ambassador, and shareholder. His vast experience will help drive ScoreApp’s continued growth and innovation. By incorporating Bucket.io’s features, ScoreApp users will be able to create sophisticated marketing funnels alongside their quizzes and surveys, helping businesses improve conversion rates and gain valuable insights into customer behaviour.

Bucket.io, co-founded by Ryan Levesque and Richard Cussons, is a leader in the marketing technology space, known for its cutting-edge lead generation solutions. The company has earned a place on the Inc. 5000 list three times, recognising its contributions to the industry.

Ryan Levesque commented: “Joining forces with ScoreApp is a fantastic opportunity to bring even more value to our customers. Our shared vision of helping businesses thrive through interactive marketing will drive innovation and deliver unparalleled results for our users.”

Both companies are dedicated to providing a seamless transition for their existing customers, with ongoing support and updates throughout the integration process to ensure users can maximise the benefits of the combined platform.

Sekura.id Joins Forces with Netnumber to Revolutionise Mobile Identity Solutions

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Sekura.id, a global pioneer in mobile identity services, has partnered with Netnumber to expand their capabilities in digital identity and authentication. This collaboration integrates Sekura.id’s SAFr Auth, SIM Swap protection, and KYC Match services with Netnumber’s state-of-the-art Number Intelligence as a Service (NIaaS), offering exceptional value to clients and partners worldwide.

The partnership unites Sekura.id’s expertise in mobile identity verification and fraud prevention with Netnumber’s number intelligence services, creating a robust solution for businesses aiming to secure their digital ecosystems and enhance customer experience. Together, they offer enhanced security and streamlined processes, enabling organisations to confidently verify users at all stages.

What the Partnership Offers:

  • Mobile-to-Person Match (MPM): By combining Sekura.id’s KYC Match with Netnumber’s number intelligence, the partnership provides a more complete and precise identity verification service, reducing friction during onboarding and building trust.
  • SIM Swap Protection: Sekura.id’s SIM Swap detection, enhanced with Netnumber’s Number Intelligence, offers real-time fraud detection, enabling enterprises to take action when identity theft or account takeover risks are identified.
  • Number Verification: With the integration of Sekura.id’s SAFr Auth and NIaaS, businesses benefit from faster and more efficient number verification, reducing costs and enhancing security outcomes.

Mark Harvey, CEO of Sekura.id, stated: “Today marks a transformative step in mobile identity. By formalising our partnership with Netnumber and integrating our services, we are combining the strengths of both companies to deliver unparalleled confidence in user verification processes. Together, we are setting new standards for real-time, mobile-led identity solutions.”

Steve Legge, CEO and President of Netnumber, added: “Managing expanding digital identity footprints securely is complex. Our extensive global phone number data services provide critical, real-time information, helping create comprehensive digital identity solutions. This collaboration will enhance customer experiences and drive operational efficiency.”

Together, Sekura.id and Netnumber offer solutions that exceed the capabilities of their individual services. By integrating SAFr Auth, SIM Swap protection, and NIaaS, they create a stronger defence against fraud and simplify the user verification process for enterprises.

This partnership not only strengthens security but also redefines how digital identity is managed, delivering a forward-thinking solution that is prepared for future threats.

For further details, visit www.sekura.id and www.netnumber.com.

Record-breaking England complete remarkable win in Pakistan

England completed a breathtaking victory in the first Test against Pakistan, Jack Leach putting the finishing touches to an innings and 47 runs win before lunch on day five in Multan.

The left-arm spinner snapped up the last three wickets on the final day to cap an incredible win after Pakistan ended with 556 runs on day two. No team in history has ever scored as many and gone on to lose without making their opponents bat twice, with England’s massive score of 823 doing the damage.

England captain Ollie Pope said: “Credit to the bowlers for the way they went about their stuff, and the fitness they showed. We knew the way to win this game was with a mammoth score on the board so credit to Harry Brook and Joe Root for their skills and determination.

“When you make 550 you think you are in the driving seat but we felt we had lots of wicket-taking opportunities. We would have backed ourselves to chase 140 or so if we needed to.”

Pakistan resumed the final day on a precarious 152-6 and Salman Agha was the first to depart in the morning after a defiant 63, with the introduction of Leach helping England snap his 109-run partnership with Aamer Jamal.

England’s pace bowlers peppered the two overnight batsmen with bouncers earlier and Jamal recovered after being hit on the side of the head by a fiery ball from Brydon Carse to bring up his own half-century.

He was then granted a lifeline when stand-in captain Pope put down a difficult chance at square-leg – England’s fifth dropped catch of the innings – and remained not out on 55.

Leach pulled off a stunning catch off his own bowling to remove Shaheen Afridi before having Naseem Shah stumped to seal the victory.

England had declared after making their highest total in 86 years, a colossal 823-7 in 150 overs after Harry Brook’s 317 and Joe Root’s 262, and extracted the most out of a lifeless pitch.

The hosts had flexed their muscles in the early part of the test with 556 in the first innings but found themselves under the gun trailing England by 115 runs at the end of the fourth day and they folded under pressure.

Brook said: “I enjoyed it a lot, it was tough out there with the heat but the plan was to bat as long as possible. You have to try and enjoy batting, keep rotating the strike and put the bad balls away. It was a good surface to cash in on. Hopefully there are many more to come.”

The sides meet again at the same venue in the second Test on Tuesday.

How to choose between a second hand and a refurbished Apple Mac

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When shopping for an Apple Mac, you may come across two budget-friendly options: buying second-hand or going with a refurbished model. Both routes can save you money compared to buying new, but they come with distinct differences in quality, reliability, and long-term value.

Whether you’re in the market for a MacBook, iMac, or Mac Mini, understanding the pros and cons of second-hand and refurbished Macs is essential to making a smart buying decision.

What is a second-hand Apple Mac?

A second-hand Mac is a device that has been previously owned and is being resold, often directly by the original owner or through online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. These devices come in varying conditions, depending on how they were used and maintained by the previous owner.

One of the major advantages of buying second-hand is the potential for significant cost savings. Second-hand Macs are generally priced much lower than new or refurbished models, especially if the device is a few years old. However, with these savings come certain risks. Since second-hand devices are typically sold “as-is,” there may be hidden problems, such as hardware damage, battery issues, or software glitches, which the seller may not disclose.

Additionally, second-hand Macs usually don’t come with a warranty or any assurance of functionality, leaving you vulnerable to expensive repairs if something goes wrong after your purchase. When buying second-hand, it’s important to thoroughly inspect the device (if possible), check for any visible damage, and ask the seller about its history of repairs or upgrades.

What is a refurbished Apple Mac?

A refurbished Apple Mac, on the other hand, is a device that has been returned to the manufacturer or a certified refurbisher due to a defect, trade-in, or simply because the original buyer no longer wanted it. These devices are then tested, repaired, and restored to factory standards. In many cases, refurbished Macs undergo a thorough inspection and any faulty components are replaced, making them as good as new.

Refurbished Apple Macs are typically sold through official channels like Apple’s Refurbished Store or authorised third-party resellers. The key benefit of buying a refurbished Mac is the peace of mind it offers. Unlike second-hand devices, refurbished Macs often come with a warranty—typically a year—covering potential hardware issues that may arise after purchase. Additionally, refurbished models are guaranteed to be in good working condition, having passed rigorous quality checks.

If you’re in the market for a high-performance machine but want to save money, a refurbished iMac could be an excellent option. It offers the reliability and quality you’d expect from a new Apple product but at a reduced price.

Key factors to consider

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the most important factors to consider when choosing between a second-hand and a refurbished Mac

Price

Second-hand Macs are generally cheaper than refurbished models. If budget is your top priority, you might find an irresistible deal on a second-hand Mac. However, while the upfront cost may be lower, keep in mind the potential hidden expenses associated with repairs or hardware replacements that could arise down the line.

Refurbished Macs, while slightly more expensive than second-hand models, still offer significant savings over brand-new Macs. Plus, the added value of warranties and certified repairs often makes the higher price worth it for many buyers.

Which option is right for you?

Choosing between a second-hand and a refurbished Apple Mac ultimately depends on your priorities. If your main concern is price and you’re willing to take the risk of buying “as-is,” a second-hand Mac could be the right choice for you. Just be sure to inspect the device carefully and understand the potential risks involved.

However, if you’re looking for a more reliable option that balances cost savings with quality assurance, a refurbished Mac is likely the better choice. With a warranty, verified condition, and guaranteed performance, refurbished Macs offer peace of mind that second-hand options simply can’t match.

In the end, both options can help you save money, but the refurbished route provides a safer investment, especially for those who want the best balance of affordability, quality, and long-term usability.

Image credit: Dontree_m

Yorkshire batters Joe Root and Harry Brook star as England records fall against Pakistan

Joe Root was happy to look past another record-breaking day in his brilliant career and focus on helping England win the first Test against Pakistan in Multan.

Root, who became England’s highest run-scorer in Test cricket yesterday, today compiled his biggest total in the longest format with a superb 262 as part of an incredible team effort that saw the tourists reach 823 for seven before stand-in skipper Ollie Pope declared.

Root and fellow Yorkshireman Harry Brook led the way with a fourth-wicket partnership of 454, the highest by an England pairing. Brook made 317 to become just the sixth Englishman to make a score of 300 or more.

It all amounted to England holding a first innings lead of 267 and they maintained their stranglehold on the game by reducing Pakistan to 152 for six by the close, seamers Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse taking two wickets each.

England should wrap up victory early on day five to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series.

On a day full of statistics, Root was quick to point out that records don’t mean that much unless the team wins. He told BBC Test Match Special: “They are pretty cool things. It would mean a lot more if we can win this Test match. You look at the situation where they had 556 on the scoreboard and to be this far ahead in the game is the best thing.

“It’s been a phenomenal couple of days from the team. That last session was a huge feat.

“To take six wickets on a pitch like that and then put ourselves in a position where we have a real chance to win the game tomorrow now is a testament to the work ethic of the group and our ability to exploit the conditions.”

On Brook, he added: “Brook was outstanding.

“Everyone who has spent time at the wicket has looked good and made the most of a good batting wicket. It was nice for us to get together and keep the partnership going.

“I think we keep each other going. We have a good laugh out there in the middle. We have played a lot of cricket together whether it be for Yorkshire or for England. He’s fun to play with.”

The heat and humidity in Multan meant individual milestones were greeted with muted celebrations due to the players trying to conserve energy.

“There was a lack of emotion, partly down to the heat,” Root explained. “Just the amount of energy that is taken out of you playing in these conditions is huge. It’s been quite pleasing to acclimatise and just drawing on that mental resilience.

“I make sure I do the work and put myself in some really tough situations in training so that I am really ready for these conditions. I know I can bat for long periods of time and when it gets tough, I can get through it.”

Clarke Controls helps Wickes cut energy use in big strides towards sustainability goals

Clarke Controls, a leading manufacturer and installer of commercial Energy Management Systems (EMS) based in Oldham, is helping Wickes achieve its sustainability goals and cut energy bills, by providing cutting-edge heating controls at over 200 sites across the country.

Clarke Controls anticipates the state-of-the-art zoned control system will reduce Wickes’ energy use for heating by around 25% across all 200 sites including Oldham, Bolton and Stockport, while keeping the Wickes team warm and comfortable.

Cutting energy use will have a big impact on Wickes’ carbon footprint, as the company works towards its ambitious sustainability goals.

Clarke Controls’ innovative solutions not only enhance sustainability but also deliver substantial cost savings for Wickes. By prioritising efficiency and environmental responsibility, Wickes looks set to achieve significant savings on energy spend for heating annually, reinforcing the notion that sustainability and economic viability go hand in hand.

Ceri Davies, head of procurement at Wickes (pictured right) said: “Decarbonising our sites is an essential part of our Built to Last responsible business strategy – and this means taking steps to reduce our energy use and cut waste wherever we can.

“Clarke Controls has transformed the way we control our heating at sites around the UK – making the systems more efficient and targeted to keep wasted energy to a minimum. The initial results are very promising, and we’re on track to deliver significant energy, carbon and cost savings, year after year.”

The partnership involved 100 new installations and the upgrade of 100 existing controls, revolutionising Wickes’ approach to energy management and sustainability at sites across the country.

Clive Bodenham, managing director at Clarke Controls, (pictured left) said: “The role of our heating controls is simple – to help customers save energy, cut costs and reduce carbon, while keeping their workforce warm and comfortable.

“The Wickes project is the perfect example of what we do for business customers. In buildings with large open areas, heating and lighting can make up 75% or more of the total energy consumption. Our system has a proven history of reducing this energy use by 25% or more in hundreds of sites across the country – so it should be a real priority for any company looking to tackle emissions and cut costs.

“By leveraging our advanced control systems, Wickes has not only reduced its environmental impact but also unlocked significant savings. We are pleased to be a partner in their journey towards a greener future.”

Clarke Controls is a leading manufacturer and installer of commercial Energy Management Systems (EMS) with over two decades of experience and nationwide clients, including Wickes and Marshalls.

Clarke Controls Energy Management Systems use advanced techniques to regulate energy use without compromising comfort or productivity.

Its proprietary heating and lighting systems are ideal for a diverse range of workplaces, including industrial areas, workshops, factories, garages, and commercial environments, saving up to 25% or more on heating and energy cost.

 

A manual for picking the right ‘gathering room gear’ for your business

In the present speedy business climate, the gathering room has turned into a fundamental space for cooperation, navigation, and correspondence. Whether it’s a meeting to generate new ideas with your group or an urgent show to clients, the nature of your gathering room gear can have a significant effect.

Having the right sound clear line of sight (AV) devices set up guarantees that gatherings run as expected, correspondence is consistent, and introductions leave an enduring effect. One organisation that stands apart for its skill in this space is Biamp, which offers an extensive scope of answers for organisations hoping to redesign their gathering meeting room equipment.

Why meeting room gear matters

For some associations, gatherings are at the core of their activities. From arranging meetings to talks with accomplices, the capacity to convey plainly and effectively is basic to progress. This is where having great gathering room hardware becomes fundamental. The right gear can assist you with staying away from specialised issues that frequently upset gatherings, similar to unfortunate sound quality, slacking video, or inconsistent gadgets.

Moreover, all around planned gathering room innovation upgrades cooperation by making it simpler to share thoughts, impart across remote groups, and draw in with members progressively. Whether you’re facilitating face to face gatherings or mixture ones with members dialling in from various areas, dependable AV hardware is vital to keeping everybody in total agreement.

Fundamental parts of meeting room gear

While setting up or redesigning your gathering room, there are a few vital bits of gear that each business ought to consider:

  • Great sound frameworks

Clear sound is central to any compelling gathering. Without it, members might battle to grasp each other, prompting miscommunication and disappointment. Biamp’s sound frameworks, including its Tesira and Devio lines, are intended to convey completely clear sound in any climate, guaranteeing that each member’s voice is definitely heard.

  • Visual showcase innovation

Whether you’re sharing a show or video content, a great presentation is fundamental for keeping your crowd locked in. Pick huge, superior quality screens that are noticeable to everybody in the room, with consistent mix to share content from workstations or cell phones. Biamp’s answers coordinate effectively with different showcase advances, guaranteeing that your introductions come through plainly and like clockwork.

  • Video conferencing arrangements

In the period of cross breed work, video conferencing apparatuses are a higher priority than at any other time. Biamp offers a scope of conferencing frameworks that give superior quality video and dependable network for distant gatherings. With Biamp’s Parlé amplifiers and conferencing stages, members can see and hear each other obviously, making a vivid gathering experience for both face to face and distant participants.

  • Cooperation instruments

Gone are the days when a whiteboard and a marker were sufficient to encourage cooperation. The present organisations require computerised cooperation apparatuses that empower remote and in-person members to share and alter reports, conceptualise thoughts, and track progress continuously. Biamp’s gathering room arrangements support consistent substance sharing and constant coordinated effort, making it simple for groups to cooperate regardless of where they are.

Tweaking your gathering space for your business

The best gathering room hardware arrangements are custom fitted to the particular requirements of your business. For private companies, a straightforward arrangement with a showcase screen and a solid sound framework might get the job done. Notwithstanding, bigger associations or those with additional intricate necessities might require further developed AV arrangements that can scale across numerous rooms or even various office areas.

Biamp’s answers are intended to be versatile and adjustable, guaranteeing that organisations, everything being equal, can profit from state of the art AV innovation. Whether you want hardware for a little group room or a huge meeting space, Biamp furnishes adaptable choices that can develop with your business.

Also, meeting room equipment ought to be not difficult to utilise. Convoluted frameworks can create setbacks, disappointment, and botched open doors. With Biamp’s easy to understand interfaces and solid execution, your representatives can zero in on the substance of the gathering as opposed to battling with innovation.

Future-sealing your gathering room

As innovation keeps on advancing, organisations need to guarantee their gathering room gear is future-verification. Picking versatile and upgradable arrangements, similar to those presented by Biamp, permits organisations to remain on the ball and adjust to new innovative headways. This implies your AV arrangement can keep on addressing your requirements without requiring a total update like clockwork.

For instance, Biamp’s Tesira stage offers an adaptable, organized sound and video framework that can be handily extended as your business develops. This sort of ground breaking approach guarantees that your interest in gathering room gear is solid.

The job of biamp in gathering room innovation

Biamp is a perceived forerunner in the AV business, offering arrangements that meet the developing necessities of organisations around the world. With a pledge to development, dependability, and supportability, Biamp’s items are trusted by associations, everything being equal. Whether you’re hoping to update a solitary gathering room or carry out a full-scale AV redesign across various areas, Biamp’s mastery and broad item range settle on it a top decision for entrepreneurs.

For organisations in Manchester and then some, putting resources into great gathering room hardware is an interest in smoother, more useful gatherings that drive improved results. With Biamp’s cutting edge arrangements, your association can establish a gathering climate that cultivates joint effort, upgrades correspondence, and conveys exceptional outcomes like clockwork.

The Evolution of Retail Business Models: Insights from Inc & Co on Modern Strategies

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As retail business models continue to shift, Inc & Co stands out with innovative strategies that redefine how businesses engage with consumers. Inc & Co leverages digitalisation and e-commerce to create dynamic retail environments that cater to modern consumer demands. This approach not only enhances customer experiences but also keeps businesses adaptable in a fast-paced market.

The transformation in retail is driven by the convergence of various business models, where traditional boundaries between online and in-store experiences blur. This evolution highlights the need for businesses to integrate advanced technologies into their operations. Inc & Co’s focus on business model innovation allows them to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that they meet customer expectations while fostering sustainable growth.

As the retail landscape evolves, companies that embrace change and leverage digital tools will thrive. Inc & Co serves as a prime example of this evolution, demonstrating how reinvention and adaptation can lead to success in a competitive industry. Through strategic digitalisation, they maintain relevance and offer valuable insights into the future of retail business models.

Transforming Retail through Technology and Innovation

Retail businesses have been changing rapidly due to technology and innovation. Omnichannel and multichannel marketing ensure seamless customer experiences across various platforms, while artificial intelligence (AI) personalises interactions. Digitalisation has also driven a significant shift towards e-commerce, reshaping how consumers shop.

The Rise of Omnichannel and Multichannel Marketing

In the modern retail environment, omnichannel and multichannel strategies have become essential. They allow businesses to provide a unified experience across physical stores, online platforms, and mobile apps. This approach helps retailers engage with customers seamlessly, irrespective of the channel they choose.

Retailers can use customer data from various touchpoints to enhance their marketing strategies. For example, data collected through apps can inform in-store promotions, ensuring a consistent customer journey. This is not just about presence on multiple platforms but about integration that offers a coherent, engaging experience.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Customer Experience

Artificial intelligence is significantly transforming the retail sector, particularly in enhancing the customer experience. AI tools can analyse vast amounts of customer data to deliver hyperpersonalised recommendations, tailor marketing messages, and streamline customer support.

AI technologies, such as chatbots, offer instant assistance to shoppers, providing a level of convenience that was previously unavailable. By anticipating consumer needs and preferences, retailers can create more personalised shopping experiences, fostering customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Digitalisation and the Shift Towards E-commerce

The digitalisation of retail has accelerated the industry’s shift towards e-commerce. This shift has been fuelled by technological advancements and a growing preference among consumers for online shopping. Retailers have had to innovate their business models to stay competitive in this digital landscape.

E-commerce platforms allow businesses to reach a wider audience without the constraints of physical locations. They also enable more precise innovation management by providing insights into consumer behaviour. This data supports strategic decisions on inventory, marketing, and customer service, ensuring a dynamic and adaptable retail operation.

Sustainable Growth and Value Creation in Retail

Retailers today must adopt business models that enhance both value creation and sustainability to thrive in competitive markets. This includes leveraging data for personalisation and exploring novel revenue streams through servitization.

Evolving Business Models for Sustainable Competitive Advantage

In the race for competitive advantage, retailers innovate by evolving their business models. This means integrating sustainability practices across their operations, from sourcing to packaging. Brands that prioritise eco-friendly practices gain public trust and loyalty, leading to customer retention.

Additionally, adopting flexible pricing and personalisation strategies motivates repeat purchases. These strategies, coupled with efficient logistics and technological advancements, enable retailers to stay ahead. By refining these organisational capabilities, businesses can develop a long-term sustainable competitive edge.

Utilising Customer Data and Analytics for Personalisation

Data monetisation is transforming how retailers engage with customers. Understanding consumer behaviour through advanced analytics allows for personalised shopping experiences. Retailers use both online and offline data to tailor promotions, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Customer Segmentation:

  • Demographics
  • Purchase History
  • Browsing Behaviour

By leveraging these insights, retailers not only increase sales but also improve customer experience. This approach fosters a deeper connection with customers, making them feel valued and understood.

Servitization and New Revenue Streams

Servitization offers retailers new avenues for revenue. By providing services alongside products, they can differentiate themselves in the market. For instance, offering maintenance or subscription services creates ongoing relationships with customers.

This shift not only diversifies sources of revenue but also enhances customer experience, creating added value. As more retailers embrace servitisation, they position themselves as holistic providers rather than mere sellers, ensuring growth in a competitive landscape.

Stay connected with Inc & Co on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn for the latest updates and insights.