Author: Scott Dylan

A kitchen fittings company, founded by former Team GB swimmer Dan Briggs, has received a significant boost from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.Fittingsco, established in 2017, aims to expand its team and stock levels, leveraging the new investment to drive growth.Dan Briggs, a former Team GB swimmer, founded Fittingsco in 2017 while balancing his swimming training. The company, based in Chadderton, specialises in providing a wide range of furniture fittings, including hinges, drawers, and LED under-counter lighting.Fittingsco recently secured funding from the debt capital portion of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II), managed by FW Capital. The…

Ebay has made a significant change by cancelling selling fees for private sellers in the UK, excluding the motors category.This strategic move follows similar decisions made earlier this year, including in the fashion sector.Similar platforms like Depop and Vinted have also adopted policies to attract private sellers with no selling fees.Ebay expects this change to increase both listings and gross merchandise value, as seen in previous market adjustments.New initiatives, including AI-generated pricing guidance and the Ebay Local programme, aim to streamline and enhance the selling experience.Ebay has announced a pivotal shift, removing selling fees for private sellers across all UK…

A significant acquisition has occurred in the UK healthcare market. Countrywide Healthcare Supplies, based in Barnsley, has been purchased by phs Group. This transaction was completed for an undisclosed amount.Countrywide Healthcare Supplies, a renowned care home supplier, has been operational for 28 years. They provide a wide range of healthcare products, interior design, and fit-out services, employing over 130 staff.The acquisition sees Countrywide Healthcare Supplies joining forces with phs Group, a company known for its expertise in washroom, waste management, and various other services. The move marks an exit for key figures such as founder and former chairman Alastair Kitching,…

A significant financial boost has been unveiled for start-ups and scale-ups in Sunderland with the introduction of a new £15 million fund. This initiative is poised to invigorate the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.Spearheaded by Northstar Ventures, the Venture Sunderland Fund aims to fortify sectors where Sunderland shows emerging strengths, including advanced manufacturing, digital and creative industries, health and ageing, and low carbon.Investment Aims and Sector FocusThe £15 million Venture Sunderland Fund is designed to fuel the growth of high-potential companies in Sunderland. The fund specifically targets advanced manufacturing, digital and creative industries, health and ageing, and low carbon sectors.This initiative aims…

The extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene in Georgia and North Carolina has not only brought devastation but has also ignited a fierce political debate.Both the current administration and political opponents are using the disaster to bolster their standing as the elections approach.The Political Ramifications of Hurricane HeleneThe extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene across Georgia and North Carolina has rapidly turned into a heated political debate. The hurricane’s occurrence in crucial battleground states has intensified the political stakes as the upcoming elections approach.Both the Biden-Harris administration and former President Donald Trump have sought to leverage the disaster for political…

Innocent Drinks has undertaken a substantial redesign of its packaging across its entire product collection.The intiative aims to enhance brand identity and clearly differentiate between various product lines.The redesign has been implemented in 18 markets, showcasing a focus on simplicity and brand recognition.A key feature of the new packaging is the repositioned and redesigned Innocent’s ‘Dude’ logo for better visibility.This strategic move addresses the needs of consumers seeking clear and engaging product information.Innocent Drinks has initiated a comprehensive redesign of its packaging to strengthen its brand identity and make its bottles more consumer-friendly. This effort spans the entire product range,…

Gousto has appointed Murray Lambell as its new chief customer officer, aiming to enhance customer experience.Lambell’s prior role included leading eBay UK and a significant category in global business.The strategic move aligns with Gousto’s return to profitability with £26m EBITDA in 2023.Lambell will manage teams focusing on brand, acquisition, retention, and more.Sally Matthews and Shaun Pearce will undertake new strategic roles within Gousto.Gousto has announced the appointment of Murray Lambell as its new chief customer officer, a strategic move designed to bolster the company’s customer experience. This appointment comes as Gousto aims to secure a larger share of the mainstream…

Newly unearthed reports contradict Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s previous claims about his travel to China during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.These reports, which surfaced just before a critical vice presidential debate, have raised questions about the accuracy of Walz’s statements.Discrepancies in Walz’s China Travel ClaimsNewly unearthed reports have cast doubt on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s claims about his presence in China during the Tiananmen Square protests. The reports emerged just before the vice presidential debate, suggesting that Walz’s historical assertions may not be entirely accurate.Walz previously stated that he visited Hong Kong in May 1989 and recalled detailed memories of…

In the wake of a significant dockworkers’ strike, the Biden administration finds itself navigating complex political terrain. The timing of the strike, just before a crucial election, adds layers of difficulty and urgency.Cabinet-level officials have been closely monitoring discussions between the International Longshoremen’s Association and a consortium of port management companies. These negotiations are seen as critical due to their potential impact on the supply chain and economy.White House authorities recently met with representatives from the US Maritime Corporation to urge continued negotiations. However, significant challenges remain in reaching a consensus.The administration has limited options: leveraging the bully pulpit or…

The leading law firm in Newcastle has achieved new milestones, recording its highest turnover and profit for the third consecutive year.Significant growth in various departmental services and strategic initiatives has propelled the firm to maintain its leading position in the region.Publishing its financial accounts for 2023, the law firm reported a 4.5% increase in turnover, rising from £16.3 million to £17.03 million.Similarly, operating profit experienced a 6% growth, increasing from £3.8 million to £4.05 million.The firm expanded its team significantly, increasing staff numbers from 147 to 160.This included the addition of eight new fee earners and five support staff, reinforcing…