Author: Dave Antrobus

The Royal Agricultural University has introduced an agritech competition with a substantial prize of £50,000.This challenge is set to encourage innovative companies to address the pressing issues facing the agricultural sector through technological advancements.The Farm491 Challenge Prize, with a central theme of ‘mixed land use’, invites businesses to propose inventive solutions for contemporary agricultural challenges. Shortlisted entries will pitch their concepts to a distinguished panel at the university’s Cirencester campus later this year. This prestigious award includes a winning prize of £50,000 and a runner-up prize of £25,000.This includes initiatives in agroforestry, regenerative housing, intercropping, and co-producing food with renewable…

Iceland is reshaping its identity with its Brands on Ice programme.Over 100 brands applied, showcasing various grocery categories.The initiative aims to launch exclusive, affordable products.Collaboration with brands emphasises innovation and market differentiation.Reviving beloved products is also part of Iceland’s strategy.Earlier this year, Iceland introduced the Brands on Ice programme, a strategic initiative aimed at repositioning the supermarket’s identity by leveraging innovation. With a £100,000 investment fund, the programme invited both emerging and established brands to pitch innovative product ideas. Iceland seeks to evolve beyond its roots as a frozen food specialist, aspiring to become a comprehensive supermarket that generates excitement…

Windward has reported a significant improvement in its financial performance for the first half of the year. Increased demand for its services has played a key role in reducing losses.The company’s revenue growth and confidence in reaching an EBITDA break-even in 2024 underline its strategic success amidst a recovering global trade landscape.Financial Performance HighlightsMaritime intelligence company, Windward, has announced a remarkable reduction in its financial losses for the first half of the fiscal year. The company’s EBITDA losses have decreased significantly, from $3.8 million (£2.9 million) last year to $1.3 million (£1 million) this year. This improvement in financial performance…

BT’s shares saw a notable drop of over five percent following a new broadband agreement between Sky and Cityfibre.This strategic partnership marks a shift in the landscape, creating challenges and opportunities for existing providers.Impact of Sky’s Broadband Agreement with CityfibreBT has experienced a significant decline in its shares, dropping five percent following the announcement of Sky’s broadband agreement with Cityfibre. Sky is poised to launch its broadband services on Cityfibre’s network starting in 2025. This development poses questions on BT’s future strategy as Sky was previously dependent on BT’s Openreach network for its broadband services.According to reports, Sky currently hosts…

The Gleneagles Hotel has shown strong financial recovery in the latest reports.Recent accounts filed with Companies House indicate a reduction in pre-tax losses and increased turnover.The Gleneagles Hotel, renowned for hosting the prestigious Ryder Cup in 2014, has demonstrated a significant financial rebound. According to recently filed accounts, the hotel’s pre-tax loss has been reduced from £10.1 million in the previous year to £3.7 million for the 12-month period ending March 31, 2024. This improvement in financial performance is mirrored by a turnover increase from £105.5 million to £121.9 million.The management team at Gleneagles reported that the hotel outperformed expectations…

Deloitte has strategically relocated to the eco-friendly Halo building, Bristol.This move unites Deloitte’s Bristol workforce, enhancing collaboration.Deloitte’s Strategic MoveDeloitte has taken a bold step by relocating its regional headquarters to the Halo building in Finzels Reach, Bristol. This transition reflects its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The Halo building is renowned for its eco-friendly design, setting a benchmark in modern architecture. Occupying 29,500 square feet, this move consolidates Deloitte’s presence in the city, unifying employees under one roof.The design of this new office is noteworthy. Deloitte’s in-house team crafted spaces that encourage collaboration and employee wellness. Features such as shared…

This week witnessed several significant business deals in the North East, showcasing the region’s dynamic economic landscape.From pioneering biotech partnerships to strategic property acquisitions, the North East continues to attract diverse investments that promise growth and innovation.A notable development has come from a Newcastle-based biotech firm, Kerato Ltd. This company has entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Montreal, aiming to advance the development of bio-engineered corneas. This collaboration seeks to meet the industrial and clinical demand for what is claimed to be the most advanced artificial cornea. The global market for corneal transplants is in excess of…

The Manchester basketball franchise has been revitalised with its acquisition by the US-based Sherwood Family Investment Office.Under new management, the team looks to compete fiercely in the newly formed Super League Basketball, marking a promising era for the sport in the city.The Manchester basketball franchise has been acquired by the US-based Sherwood Family Investment Office. Spearheaded by private equity experts Ned Sherwood and Ben Pierson, the group is set to manage both men’s and women’s teams in the upcoming Super League Basketball. This acquisition marks a significant turning point for the franchise, which will redesign itself as it moves away…

THG’s latest expansion sees the opening of a new office in London’s iconic Square Mile, a move that underscores its ambition and growth.Situated at 107 Cheapside, the new office brings together THG’s varied brands, marking a significant step in its strategic consolidation.THG Expands in the Financial Heart of LondonTHG, renowned for its e-commerce and direct-to-consumer strengths, is making a significant stride by opening a new office in London’s iconic Square Mile. This establishment at 107 Cheapside marks a pivotal moment, as it centralises THG’s operations in one of the world’s foremost financial districts. Such a move not only highlights THG’s…

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued a public censure against MHA, an auditing firm affiliated with Baker Tilly International. This action stems from MHA’s failure to meet the required standards in preparing client asset reports, highlighting critical regulatory expectations.From 2015 to 2019, MHA’s audits revealed significant deficiencies, prompting the FCA to take action. The firm’s inability to report multiple rule breaches further exemplified the need for an accurate auditing process to protect client interests.FCA’s Public Censure of MHAThe Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has formally censured the auditor known as MHA, which serves as the UK and Ireland affiliate of…