Author: Scott Dylan

Shares, an investing app supported by notable investors like Serena Williams and Peter Thiel, has ceased its UK operations amidst increasing financial losses.Launched in May 2022, Shares concluded a $40 million funding round to further its expansion in the UK and EU markets.In 2023, the company reported a substantial loss of £16.1 million, marking a 23% rise compared to the previous year.Due to strategic refocus, Shares has decided to concentrate on the French and EU markets, terminating its UK business as of August 30th, 2024.Despite the shutdown, the company assures stakeholders of a solvent winding up of its UK operations.Shares,…

NunaBio, a pioneering life sciences spin-out from Newcastle, has recently secured £810,000 in investment. This latest funding round was led by Northstar Ventures with substantial contributions from existing investors.NunaBio is poised to make significant strides in the life sciences sector with its cutting-edge DNA synthesis technologies. The company, founded by Dr Andrew Pike and Dr Eimer Tuite, has developed unique methods that allow for rapid, scalable, and cost-effective DNA production. This technological advancement addresses the burgeoning demand in the fields of gene therapy, diagnostics, and biomarker development.The investment marks the first instance of cooperation between the Northstar EIS Growth Fund…

The transformation of the former Allders department store in Croydon has been approved.Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield will convert the vacant building into seven new shops.The renovation includes five retail and two food and beverage outlets.This marks the first phase in rejuvenating the historic site.Local leaders see it as a key part of Croydon’s regeneration efforts.Property developer Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield has received planning permission from Croydon Council to transform the former Allders department store into seven new shops. The approval marks a significant step in revitalising a key area in Croydon, an initiative strongly supported by local authorities.The redevelopment plan outlines the creation of five retail…

Law firm Knights has expanded its footprint in the West Midlands by acquiring Thursfields. This strategic move enhances Knights’ legal capabilities across key sectors and locations.By acquiring Thursfields for £12.5 million, Knights incorporates approximately 100 professionals into its team. This acquisition is part of Knights’ growth strategy to strengthen its private wealth services.Strategic Expansion by KnightsLaw firm Knights has taken a significant step to bolster its presence in the West Midlands through the acquisition of Thursfields for £12.5 million. This strategic move, initially announced in July, integrates around 100 accomplished professionals into Knights’ umbrella, stretching across several key locations including…

Henry Boot, a leading UK land and property development company, has finalised a significant land sale with Barratt Developments, involving almost 500 housing plots in Coventry.This transaction is part of the larger Pickford Gate development, which aims to deliver a substantial mix of residential units and community infrastructure.Henry Boot’s Strategic Land SaleHenry Boot, a prominent land and development company, has successfully finalised the sale of approximately 500 residential plots to David Wilson Homes, which is part of Barratt Developments. This transaction is a key step in Henry Boot’s strategy to reach its target of selling 3,000 plots annually. Although the…

Renowned shipyard Harland & Wolff has announced its insolvency, a situation that raises significant concerns across the UK.With a workforce of 1,500 employed at its facilities in Belfast, Devon, and Scotland, the implications of this development are widespread and troubling.Immediate Impact on WorkforceHarland & Wolff has confirmed its entry into administration, an alarming move that threatens job security for its numerous employees. Immediate steps are being taken to reduce staff in ‘non-core’ operations and certain ‘central support areas.’This has understandably created anxiety among the workforce. The future of the company’s staff remains uncertain, particularly for those not involved in core…

Søstrene Grene celebrates its most successful financial year ever, driven by strategic growth and investment.The Danish retailer achieved a 15% increase in pre-tax profits, amounting to £24 million, by April.Sales surged by 22% despite facing broader economic challenges, reaching £247 million.CEO Mikkel Grene attributes success to strategic decisions and innovation within the company.Despite rising freight costs, Søstrene Grene is committed to maintaining affordable prices.Søstrene Grene has marked its most successful financial year to date, a milestone largely attributed to its ongoing expansion in the United Kingdom. This Danish retailer, currently operating over 25 stores in the UK, has announced ambitious…

Hotel Chocolat has ushered in a new era with the appointment of Lysa Hardy as its new CEO. This move follows the brand’s significant acquisition by Mars, marking a new chapter of leadership and strategic direction.The appointment reflects a broader shift within the company as it seeks to enhance its market position post-acquisition. Lysa Hardy’s leadership is expected to drive new growth strategies while navigating industry challenges. This change signals a focus on expansion and adaptation in a competitive landscape.Strategic Leadership ShiftHotel Chocolat, renowned for its luxury chocolates, has strategically appointed Lysa Hardy as the new Chief Executive Officer. This…

TechWM, a key player in the regional technology industry, has announced significant additions to its leadership team. The new appointments come as the organisation experiences substantial growth and prepares for future opportunities.Introducing a new chairman and several board members, TechWM aims to enhance its strategic direction and continue its pivotal role in the technology sector.Leadership ChangesTechWM, a prominent organisation serving the regional technology industry, has recently unveiled significant changes within its leadership team. This announcement includes the appointment of a new chairman and additional board members, signifying a strategic drive towards further growth and innovation.Jason Sahota will now serve as…

The plant-based food brand Deliciously Ella has been acquired by Hero Group, a Swiss consumer food manufacturer.This acquisition aims to facilitate Deliciously Ella’s global market expansion.Hero Group intends to leverage its presence in the UK with this strategic purchase.Deliciously Ella has achieved remarkable growth with over 100 million products sold since 2016.The acquisition excludes the Plants brand, which remains under original ownership.The well-known plant-based food brand, Deliciously Ella, has recently been acquired by Hero Group, a Swiss consumer food manufacturer, as part of Hero’s strategy to expand its product reach globally. This acquisition positions Hero to enter the UK snacking…