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CRB Cunninghams and Impact Food Group Unveil Grab-and-Go Recipe Guide for Schools

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CRB Cunninghams, a specialist in cashless catering solutions for UK schools, has teamed up with Impact Food Group (IFG) to launch a Grab-and-Go Recipe Guide. This resource aims to help school caterers meet the increasing demand for quick and convenient meal options, offering tried-and-tested recipes from IFG’s extensive collection.

The rise of grab-and-go meal options has become a key part of secondary school lunch services, with students facing shorter lunch breaks and shifting eating preferences. UCL data shows that most secondary schools now offer lunch breaks of under 55 minutes, with a quarter of them lasting less than 35 minutes, making it essential to serve meals quickly. This reflects the broader cultural shift towards on-the-go food, with the number of fast-food outlets increasing across the UK.

To support this shift, CRB Cunninghams collaborated with IFG to produce a free guide offering practical advice for schools on how to create a nutritious grab-and-go meal service. The guide also details how technology plays a critical role in adapting to the modern eating habits of pupils.

The guide includes:

  • Insights into changing trends in school food access
  • Tried-and-tested recipes that students enjoy
  • The role of technology in delivering school meals
  • Strategies to future-proof your school’s meal service
  • Q&A with experts from Impact Food Group

As schools continue to prioritise nutritious meal offerings, this guide provides essential information on how to implement an effective grab-and-go meal service, with popular recipes from IFG that meet the needs of today’s students.

Impact Food Group stated, “As caterers, we need to offer students fresh, exciting food experiences to compete with what they can get outside the school gates. New food trends, dining styles and digital solutions all have a role to play.”

Download the free Grab-and-Go Recipe Guide.

Are UK Private Rental Prices Too High to Afford?

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Recent research from 2024, compiled by LandlordBuyers.com, reveals that private rental prices have risen across the board in England (8.5%), Wales (8.5%), Scotland (7.6%) and Northern Ireland (9.9%) over the past year.

Experts suggest that no more than 30% of a person’s monthly salary should go towards rent. However, in the following regions, tenants are spending well beyond this recommendation:

  • London = 53.4% of salary on rent
  • South East = 37.5% of salary on rent
  • South West = 36.5% of salary on rent
  • East England = 35.9% of salary on rent
  • Scotland = 32% of salary on rent
  • West Midlands = 31.9% of salary on rent

By contrast, other regions in the UK see renters spending less than 30% of their income on rent:

  • North East = 24.7% of salary on rent
  • Wales = 24.8% of salary on rent
  • East Midlands = 27.3% of salary on rent
  • Yorkshire = 27.8% of salary on rent
  • North West = 29% of salary on rent

Discussing the UK’s current rental market, Jason Harris-Cohen, Managing Director at LandlordBuyers.com, said: “A North-South divide definitely still exists but the divide is tapering. Only in mid-September did estate agent Hamptons release data that showed the gap between rental values in the North and rental values in the South of England has narrowed to its lowest point in over a decade,” explains Jason. “In fact, while it was still more expensive to rent in the South, Southern rents were only 37% more expensive than those in the North – down from 43% more in August 2023 and a peak of 55% more in November 2021.”

Jason points out that the future of the rental price divide will depend on various factors. “One will be landlords themselves: which ones decide to exit the market and where their rentals are geographically located. Buy-to-let professionals are holding their breath ahead of autumn’s Budget. If pockets of landlords, perhaps mainly in the South, decide to sell, we could see supply restricted, values rise and the gap widen again.”

“Conversely,” he continues, “if Labour gets to grips with levelling up, we may see the appeal of Northern towns surge, wages catch up with Southern counterparts and demand for property – both to buy and rent – increase.”

Jason also discusses the role of house prices: “House prices will play their part too. Stagnating property and rental values in the South have been blamed for the rental value slowdown, whereas house price growth in the North has been broadly strong. If this trend continues, we could see Northern values increase further and approach something more like rental equilibrium across the country.”

“In terms of average salaries versus average rental prices, there is still a disparity. While the Office for National Statistics reported wage growth of 5.1% over the three months to July 2024 – outpacing inflation at 2.2% – Goodlord found that the average cost of a new rental home in England was 7% higher in August 2024 compared to the same time in 2023.”

England Rugby: El-Abd becomes defence coach alongside Oyonnax role

England have named Joe El-Abd as their new defence coach in a role the former flanker will combine with his duties as director of rugby at French side Oyonnax until the end of the season.

El-Abd will join Steve Borthwick’s coaching team for the Autumn Nations Series and Six Nations before leaving the Pro D2 club at the end of 2024-25.

“I can’t wait to get started,” said El-Abd, adding that he felt “incredibly honoured” to join England.

“I am excited by the direction in which this England team is headed and where they want to go under Steve’s leadership. His enthusiasm is infectious and his vision for this team is clear.

“Defence is a huge part of the game and it’s something I’m extremely passionate about. I am excited by the opportunity to keep developing a defence that will help drive England’s success.”

 

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Joe El-Abd joins England

The 44-year-old thanked Oyonnax president Dougal Bendjaballah for understanding his “deep desire” to coach England, who host New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Japan at Twickenham in November.

Former Bath, Bristol and Toulon player El-Abd joined Oyonnax in 2012 as a player-coach, taking responsibility for the forwards and defence once his playing career ended.

Oyonnax lifted the Pro D2 title in the 2012-13 season and reached the Champions Cup for the first time in the club’s history in 2014-15.

A four-year spell at Castres Olympique followed, including a Top 14 title in 2018 before El-Abd returned to Oyonnax as director of rugby for the 2019-20 season. The club returned to the Top 14 as Pro D2 champions in 2023.

Borthwick: El-Abd ‘key’

“His knowledge, passion for the game and proven experience in developing high-performing teams will be key to the squad’s development,” said Borthwick.

“Joe embodies the qualities we value in the England Rugby team and am I sure he will add to our environment and quickly deliver continued improvements to our game.”

El-Abd’s younger brother, Adam, played for Egypt during a football career spanning more than 500 appearances in the EFL and non-league, including 300 for Brighton & Hove Albion as a defender.

His youngest brother, Sami, overcame a serious knee injury to make 67 appearances as a centre-back in the highest tiers of non-league football.

Investing in the Food & Beverage Industry: Inc & Co’s Strategic Insights

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Investing in the food and beverage industry offers exciting opportunities, blending tradition with change. This sector stands as a pillar of the global economy, constantly evolving to meet new consumer demands and technological advancements. Inc & Co focuses on innovation and sustainability to drive success and ensure long-term growth.

Private equity plays a significant role in reshaping the industry landscape. Firms like Inc & Co see potential not just in established brands but also in startups and emerging trends. Their strategy involves integrating cutting-edge technology with consumer-focused developments, which positions them to lead in transforming industry dynamics.

The rise in agricultural prices and shifts in consumer preferences highlight the importance of strategic investment choices. By addressing these challenges, Inc & Co leverages its expertise to identify promising opportunities, turning market disruptions into avenues for growth. This approach promises to capture the attention of investors and industry leaders alike.

Exploring the Food & Beverage Market Landscape

The food and beverage market is dynamic, with major companies influencing trends and consumer preferences. Key players like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo focus on expanding their market share through innovation and sustainability. Understanding market dynamics and the evolving needs of consumers is crucial for investing in this sector.

Key Players and Market Dynamics

In the food and beverage industry, Coca-Cola and PepsiCo emerge as dominant forces. These companies, known as total beverage companies, strive for innovation and adaptation in response to shifting consumer preferences. Market dynamics are heavily influenced by strategies focusing on emerging markets and sustainable practices.

While snacks and food products offer diverse growth opportunities, sustainability continues to drive change. Many companies in the sector are adopting eco-friendly processes and products to meet increasing consumer demand for green options. By prioritising sustainability, these organisations aim to secure long-term profitability and brand loyalty.

Trends in Consumer Demand and Product Innovation

Consumer demand is evolving, prioritising health-conscious choices and unique flavours. With a growing focus on wellness, innovative new products, including plant-based options and healthier snacks, are entering the market. This trend propels the need for manufacturers to innovate and diversify their offerings continuously.

Moreover, the emergence of emerging markets presents a significant growth potential for these products. Companies are increasingly investing in technology to enhance product development and meet rising expectations for quality and variety. By leveraging trends like these, businesses can respond effectively to the shifting landscape.

Inc & Co’s Investment Methodology

Inc & Co employs a strategic and focused approach to investing in the food and beverage sector. Emphasising financial performance, sustainability, and diversification, the methodology ensures robust and responsible investment choices.

Analysing Company Performance and Revenue Growth

Inc & Co conducts thorough analysis of target companies’ financials, focusing heavily on revenue growth and profitability. This involves evaluating past performance, market position, and the potential for future growth. The firm looks at data such as profit margins, cash flow, and balance sheet strength. These financial metrics are crucial in determining if a company can provide favourable returns. Major players like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are often benchmarks due to their consistent performance and innovative revenue management strategies.

Sustainable Investment and Industry Compliance

Sustainability is at the forefront of Inc & Co’s investment strategy. They prioritise companies that align with environmental goals and adhere to industry compliance standards. This includes looking at companies’ practices in reducing environmental impact and their commitment to ethical governance. Compliance with regulations, such as marketing restrictions and advertising policies, is essential, particularly in categories like soft drinks and snacks. Commitment to sustainable practices is not only good for the environment but also mitigates long-term risks for investors.

Diversification of Investment Portfolios

Diversification is a key element in mitigating risk and ensuring stable returns. Inc & Co’s portfolio covers a wide array of securities and options, from stocks to more specialised investment vehicles. This mix aims to balance high-growth opportunities with stable, income-generating assets. The firm explores investments across various sectors within the industry, including emerging markets in distribution networks and innovative soft drink lines. By maintaining a diverse portfolio, Inc & Co can hedge against market volatility and capitalise on multiple market trends.

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

Honour for former BAE boss who spent years choosing winners for the Oldham Business Awards

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The man entrusted with choosing the worthy winners of the Oldham Business Awards since it began, has now found himself in the limelight.

Since 2009, Steve Kilroy (pictured below, left) has been the spearhead of the OBA steering group whittling down finalists and crowning 11 annual winners at the glitzy gala evening at Queen Elizabeth Hall.

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But having retired as steering group chair last year, Steve found himself on the receiving end when the night culminated in the prestigious Special Recognition Award, specially selected by the group and given to someone considered to have gone above and beyond for the borough.

The keen golfer was the former head of business integration at BAE Systems until the Chadderton site closed and was awarded life membership of the Avro 504 Club. 

Steve, from Chadderton, said: “This isn’t about me, it’s about Oldham and 15 years ago it was about let’s have a party and celebrate everything that’s good about Oldham. 

“We’ve done that for 15 years and I’ve been the chairman, so I’ll take a little bit of credit, but I couldn’t do it without the steering group members and the 30 to 50 business that turn up (each year) to celebrate their businesses, and the 150 that put themselves forward.”

Managing director of Cornerstone Design and Marketing in Lees, David Wadsworth (pictured above, right) in his first year leading the steering group after taking over from Steve, said: “Congratulations to Steve – he left some big shoes to fill given his huge contribution to Oldham’s vibrant business community, which makes him a very worthy winner of our Special Recognition Award.

“Well done to all the winners too, but really every finalist is a winner on our eyes, having worked so hard to put Oldham on the business map. 

“The evening showcased the brilliant display of business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit that we have in the town. It’s incredibly difficult to select finalists and winners with such a grand array of talent to choose from.

“Our thanks go to everyone who has nominated an individual or a business this year and of course, to all the sponsors who make the night possible and so special.”

It was also a good night for Diodes Incorporated, which won two awards – supporting young people and the workforce health and wellbeing categories.

Katie Wainwright, Diodes Incorporated HR and business partner, said: “Winning two awards is absolutely amazing, obviously who we were up against are all fantastic businesses and we’re all trying to achieve the same things for the Oldham community and our employees. We have a plan, and this shows it is working – it’s just fantastic!”

Hosted by OBA stalwart Caroline Whitmore of ITV Granada Reports and featuring an hilarious stand up set from comedian, actor, director and writer Johnny Vegas, the 16th annual awards event recognised business excellence, acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit among Oldham’s business community.

Live music was provided by The Not Quite Big Band during the gala dinner and continued into the night for the post-awards party. There were also plenty of chances to win some fabulous raffle prizes with all proceeds going to Mahdlo Youth Zone and Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

Here is a rundown of all the winners:

  • Business of the Year £5m+ – Dronsfields Ltd
  • Business of the Year £1m-£5m – Pegasus Warehousing & Fulfilment Ltd
  • Business of the Year up to £1m – Grains Bar Hotel Ltd
  • Businessperson of the Year – Shereen Howarth of Cornerstone Estates and Lettings Ltd
  • Micro Business of the Year – CW Dentures 
  • Start-Up – Saddleworth Language School
  • Young Entrepreneur – Callum Siddall of Chances Mentoring Limited
  • Young business – Hale Training Club
  • Community Engagement – Lees Village Service Station
  • Supporting Young People – Diodes Incorporated
  • Workforce Health and Wellbeing – Diodes Incorporated

Image credit: New Image

Trial leisure scheme breaks down barriers for deaf people

Three local leisure operators have teamed up with Bolton Deaf Society to make accessibility to fitness and exercise less daunting for the profoundly deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

A month-long trial is running at Bolton Arena Sports Village, Farnworth Leisure Centre and Leverhulme Park Community Leisure Centre, where front-line staff including receptionists and gym instructors have had basic British Sign Language (BSL) training so they can communicate more effectively with deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors.

Fourteen deaf community members have enlisted for the trial aimed at removing the need for sign language interpreters, making them self-sufficient when they visit a leisure centre, gym or swimming pool.

Zienna Hall, project lead at Bolton Deaf Society, said: “For someone who is profoundly deaf and uses British Sign Language – a visual not written language – as their first language, coming into a leisure centre can be very daunting with all the way-finding signs, registration and assessment forms, and instructions on safe equipment use in English – particularly when the staff in-situ can’t communicate with them.

“What we want to do is take away communication barriers and, ultimately, the need for interpreters, growing enthusiasm among the deaf community towards physical activity and regular participation.

“We did a trial last year and with interpreters in all the sessions, so all the deaf people used the interpreter and so did the staff. By the time the interpreter was taken away, staff had forgotten much of their deaf awareness/BSL training, and no one knew what to do.

“The venues weren’t able to commit to covering costs associated with an interpreter and/or communications support and positive momentum fell away. We learned a great deal.

“This time the staff have had deaf awareness and BSL training again, but we’re only having the interpreter present for the first session to go through the registration and well-being forms and to show them the gym equipment and so on.

“Then we are removing the interpreter for the next three to four sessions, so we can get feedback from the cohort that has put themselves forward about how leisure centre professionals are applying learning from their training.”

Lee Wood, head of commercial at Bolton Arena Sports Village, said: “We’ve all worked together to come up with a consistent approach when someone who is deaf or hard-of-hearing walks through the door. We don’t want to alienate them, we want them to enjoy the experience, so the journey is no different to anyone else. Ultimately, it’s the centre that has to adapt not the person.”

The trial has evolved from a post Covid survey called What Deaf People Want prepared for Bolton Deaf Society, Manchester Deaf Centre and Walthew House in Stockport, which found Bolton had approximately 600 BSL users and an estimated 55,000 people with hearing loss of some kind.

Zienna Hall: “It isn’t just about being profoundly deaf any more. Outside of that, there are people with cochlear implants, suffering from tinnitus, or hard of hearing through work, serving in the forces or old age. There are all kinds of reasons for hearing loss.

“Bolton Deaf Society was formed 155 years ago to serve British Sign Language users, but we’ve broadened our horizons in recent years for obvious reasons as we want to support as many people as we can.”

Giant baby starts big climate conversation in Rochdale

Rochdale welcomed a remarkable guest this week: an 8.5-metre-tall baby named Lilly, who made a surprise appearance at the town hall.

Lilly invited hundreds of local schoolchildren to share their thoughts on the future of our environment, discussing their hopes for protecting animals and nature, and envisioning the world they want to live in alongside her.

This eye-catching visit was part of the upcoming Wild Wanders illuminated nature trail event, set to take place next month at Hollingworth Lake Country Park. The initiative aims to amplify children’s voices in the crucial conversation about climate change.

While Lilly’s arrival surprised many residents, schools had received letters earlier this month inviting pupils to meet her outside Rochdale Town Hall. They were encouraged to express their ideas through poems, artwork, performances and songs, all of which is being recorded and showcased during the Wild Wanders event.

Outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank have collaborated with over 240 local schoolchildren, community groups, and artists to foster a connection with nature and enhance engagement on climate issues. Participants have created striking flags, lanterns, and puppets that will illuminate the trail.

From October 24-27, visitors will embark on an enchanting walk featuring local wildlife, enhanced by soundscapes, light displays, projections, and captivating fire installations. The soundtrack will incorporate the voices of local children expressing their hopes for the natural world.

Rochdale Borough Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 and is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2038.

Councillor Sue Smith said: “The response from the children to Lilly has been incredible, and their excitement was wonderful to witness. Interest in Wild Wanders has been overwhelming, with thousands of tickets selling out in just a few hours. It’s vital to spark conversations about climate change and empower Rochdale’s children to envision a better world. I eagerly await Lilly’s return next month; it promises to be a magical experience.”

Liz Pugh, executive producer at Walk the Plank, added: “The children were thrilled to meet Lilly and offered thoughtful responses about their vision for the future. We recorded their desires for more green spaces, less pollution, and fewer single-use plastics. It’s inspiring to see how seriously they take their role as guardians of the planet, and they’ve provided us with wonderful artwork and letters.”

Wild Wanders is a collaborative effort between Rochdale Borough Council, the internationally acclaimed outdoor arts company Walk the Plank, and partners including the Local Cultural Education Partnership (LCEP), Culture Co-Op, Rochdale Development Agency, Your Trust, and Hopwood Hall College and University Centre. The event is funded by Arts Council England and the Garfield Weston Foundation.

This initiative is part of a broader cultural education program in Rochdale, aimed at engaging young people and giving voice to their concerns about the climate emergency.

Airfresh Mould Removal Expands to Birmingham, Continuing Nationwide Growth

Airfresh Mould Removal, a leading expert in mould remediation, is pleased to announce its expansion into Birmingham. Having established a strong presence in London, Kent, and the South East, the company is now bringing its professional services to the West Midlands, with further plans to extend its operations to Manchester, Liverpool, and other major cities across the UK.

Founded in April 2022 by Jo Powell as a sole trader, Airfresh Mould Removal has seen rapid growth in the past year. In September 2023, co-founder Tom Colgan joined the company, restructuring it into a limited business. This partnership has fuelled steady monthly growth, with the team expanding to meet rising demand for their services.

Airfresh Mould Removal stands out for its commitment to transparency, integrity, and putting the customer first. The company specialises in mould remediation and hoarder cleaning, gaining a reputation for delivering professional, ethical, and meticulous services. Beyond hands-on work, Jo and Tom are passionate about educating others in the field, offering mould remediation courses nationwide through the UK Association of Mould Experts.

“We’re thrilled to bring our expertise to Birmingham and look forward to serving homeowners and businesses across the city,” said Jo Powell, Co-Founder of Airfresh Mould Removal. “We believe in doing things the right way, offering honest advice, and providing top-quality mould removal services that people can trust. Our mission is to continue growing our reach while maintaining the strong values that got us here.”

With plans to expand further into Manchester, Liverpool, and beyond, Airfresh Mould Removal is set to become a key player in the UK’s mould remediation sector.

For more details on Airfresh Mould Removal’s services, visit mouldremovalbirmingham.co.uk or contact 01212 221198.

ZTL Contracting Broadens Midlands Reach with New Alfreton Branch

ZTL Contracting, a prominent UK contractor specialising in earthworks and ground improvement, has announced the opening of its latest office in South Normanton, Alfreton. This move marks a significant step in the company’s ambitious expansion plans. With this new office, ZTL Contracting is better positioned to support its increasing number of projects throughout the Midlands, reinforcing its reputation as a growing force within the construction industry. The decision to establish an office in Alfreton reflects ZTL’s commitment to broadening its presence and taking advantage of new opportunities in one of the UK’s most active construction hubs. This expansion comes shortly after the company won the VelociTees 2024 small business ‘Job Creation’ award, which highlights ZTL’s dedication to stimulating economic growth and job creation in the Teesside area.

With considerable expertise in delivering earthworks and ground remediation services, ZTL Contracting has earned a solid reputation for quality and innovation. Their consistent delivery of large-scale projects across the UK has secured their status as a trusted partner within the construction sector. In 2023, ZTL achieved an impressive turnover of £28 million, demonstrating the company’s resilience and ability to thrive in a competitive market.

The newly opened Alfreton office is centrally located in the Midlands and represents ZTL’s continued focus on increasing its operational capacity. This move will enhance the company’s ability to meet the needs of both new and existing clients within the region. As part of its growth strategy, ZTL Contracting aims to capitalise on opportunities in the logistics and infrastructure industries. The expansion will not only bolster ZTL’s regional footprint but will also bring economic benefits to the local area, including the creation of 35 new jobs, further illustrating the company’s impact on the local economy and construction sector.

Wayne Morris, Managing Director of ZTL Contracting, shared his excitement about the company’s next steps, saying, “The Midlands region represents a vibrant landscape of new opportunities and growth for our industry. By establishing our new office in Alfreton, we’re not just expanding our geographical footprint; we’re aligning with the heart of where development is most dynamic. This is an exciting time for ZTL as we delve into projects that not only challenge us but also enable us to contribute significantly to the region’s economic and infrastructural development. We’re here to build a better tomorrow, and the Midlands is a key part of that vision.”

Looking ahead, ZTL Contracting remains committed to expanding its project portfolio. With a strong focus on sustainability, quality, and innovation, the company is set to play a major role in shaping the construction industry while driving the growth of the regions in which it operates.

Door4 marketing advice events are transforming business success

Lancashire performance marketing agency Door4, which specialises in the home and garden sector, has announced the next in its series of free-to-attend events that are helping businesses transform their marketing and drive successful growth.

Following the resounding success of its events that have explored efficiency and effectiveness in home & garden marketing and campaign planning – from insight to impact, on October 3, the experts at Door4 will be discussing how growth brands identify and track ‘the metrics that matter’.

Tailored to the needs of companies operating in the sector, the interactive workshop is a MUST for any business leaders or marketers looking to gain an advantage through more effective analysis and measurement and to gain crucial insights to improve the ROI on their marketing campaigns.

Hosted by experts from award-winning Burnley agency Door4, the speakers will outline practical strategies that you can implement immediately – to improve conversion rates, lower CPAs, and work smarter, not harder, with ads.

The event will underscore the importance of shifting marketing measurement towards metrics that directly correlate with business success, such as ROI, lead quality, and customer engagement over time.

Leon Calverley, director and founder of Door4, said: “It’s shocking how many companies, including those operating in the home and garden sector, measure the wrong marketing success indicators. We found that a staggering six out of 10 marketing leaders struggle to demonstrate the impact of their marketing because they’re measuring the wrong metrics; this is set against a backdrop of decreased sales in the sector and forecasts warning that reduced consumer spending on products for the home is set to continue for some time.

“Our research has shown that many businesses track what is easy rather than what is meaningful, often due to the lack of clear business objectives or poor alignment between marketing and sales teams; metrics such as likes, shares, and impressions often provide a false sense of success without linking to revenue, conversion, or customer acquisition costs; and there is a prevalent focus on immediate results rather than long-term metrics like brand equity, customer retention, or lifetime value.

“Our free upcoming in-person event, ‘The Metrics That Matter for Home & Garden Marketing’, aims to show marketers and senior business leaders how to overcome analysis paralysis and make data-driven decisions with confidence. By simplifying the overwhelming data landscape, you’ll be able to clearly understand cause-and-effect relationships and optimise your strategies.

“We’re offering hands-on learning with interactive and practical activities and expert insights from the Door4 team, who have helped countless brands navigate the complex world of digital marketing and analytics.”

The Metrics That Matter for Home & Garden Marketing’ event takes place on Thursday, October 3, from 9am – noon, at Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston. Breakfast is provided. For more information about this and other events taking place around the UK in 2025, or to register to attend visit: https://door4.com/nextevent