Author: Scott Dylan

In a move to prevent consumer confusion, UK telecom regulators have restricted the use of the term ‘fibre’ in broadband advertising.From now on, providers must specify if their offerings are ‘full-fibre’, ‘part-fibre’, ‘copper’, or ‘cable’ networks.The decision aims to enhance transparency and ensure accurate representation of network capabilities to consumers.This regulation reflects the growing availability of full-fibre networks in the UK, now accessible to over half of UK homes.Industry leaders, such as G.Network, welcome these measures, supporting a fair and informed consumer market.The UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, has instituted a new regulation prohibiting the use of the word ‘fibre’ by…

The ambitious £100 million tram project aims to link Cardiff city centre with Cardiff Bay. This marks the first phase of Cardiff Council’s long-term Crossrail vision.The project includes incorporating a new dedicated two-platform tram station into Cardiff Central along with significant infrastructure enhancements. The tram line is expected to revolutionise public transport in the area.Project OverviewThe new tram line aims to connect Cardiff Central railway station to Cardiff Bay, significantly enhancing public transport options. The initial budget for this first phase is capped at £100 million.Artist impressions released by Cardiff-based firm The Urbanists illustrate the planned route. The tram line…

The shipbuilding industry is watching closely as a major player faces a financial reckoning. The troubled firm will meet with shareholders, sparking concerns over potential administration.The company has faced weeks of financial instability, leading to a crucial shareholder meeting. With no vote scheduled, investors are left anxious about their future.The shipbuilder, revered for its historical contributions, now stands on the brink of administration. Interim Chairman Russell Downs is set to disclose the company’s precarious financial condition in an upcoming meeting. Investors are particularly wary of the threat of a pre-pack administration, which could salvage operations but erode their investments.Despite numerous…

Primark is extending its click-and-collect service to 54 more stores across Great Britain, just in time for the Christmas shopping rush.The service will now include menswear and homewares, expanding beyond its current offering of women’s and kidswear.This initiative is a step towards Primark’s goal of having the service available in all stores by the end of 2025.Primark’s click-and-collect service aims to offer customers the convenience of accessing wider ranges typically available only in larger stores.The initiative is part of Primark’s strategy to boost high street engagement and drive in-store visits.Primark is set to extend its click-and-collect service to an additional…

Cardiff’s office space market experienced a significant uptick in the first half of the year. Demand has surged, according to Knight Frank’s latest research.Total office space uptake increased by 27% compared to the same period last year, reflecting a dynamic shift in the market.Significant Increase in Office Space UptakeThe demand for office space in Cardiff saw a substantial increase in the first half of the year, according to recent data from global property consultancy, Knight Frank. Total office space uptake from January to June amounted to 188,112 sq ft, representing a 27% increase compared to the same period in 2023…

Waitrose has expanded its No.1 range with seven new premium Indian ready meals, responding to increased demand for Indian cuisine.The range includes dishes like Ruby Chicken Masala, Slow Cooked Beef Madras, and Chicken Tikka Samosa with a tamarind and date dip.Searches for Indian cuisine have surged on Waitrose.com, with terms like ‘Indian meal for two’ up by 315%.Social media trends also highlight a 60% increase in ‘Indian curry’ searches on TikTok, indicating a growing interest in Indian flavours.The expansion is part of a broader strategy to cater to the rising demand for gourmet ready meals, focusing on quality and authenticity.Waitrose…

The UK government has now designated data centres as critical infrastructure, a move deemed crucial amid balanced scrutiny over construction and investments.The new designation reflects the essential role data centres play in addressing cybersecurity, which significantly influences economic and lifestyle aspects.A new £3.75 billion data centre being constructed in Hertfordshire signals a commitment to expanding this industry within the UK.Despite growth, the sector faces a notable skills gap, highlighting an urgent need for a skilled workforce.Government support aims to reduce the risks of cyber-attacks, fostering a more secure digital environment.The UK government’s decision to classify data centres as critical infrastructure…

The Bank of England is facing mounting pressure to cut interest rates in response to a slowdown in job vacancies and a decline in factory output. This situation signals potential economic challenges ahead.As the economic landscape shifts, with job vacancies decreasing by 3.2% and factory output contracting for the first time in four years, policymakers are grappling with crucial decisions on interest rate adjustments.According to the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), job vacancies fell by 3.2% in August. This decline reflects a sluggish job market, with nearly 720,000 new adverts posted. The reduction in job vacancies is a significant indicator…

In a strategic shift, Phoenix Group has decided to halt the sale of its Sunlife unit. This move comes as the company reports a noteworthy rise in profits during the first half of the year.The decision to retain Sunlife is attributed to the ongoing uncertainties in the protection market. Phoenix Group aims to focus on enhancing its value generation within the group.Strategic Decision Amid Market UncertaintyPhoenix Group, a prominent entity in the FTSE 100, has ceased the sale of its Sunlife unit in response to current market challenges. The company highlighted ‘current uncertainty in the protection market’ as a key…

Lord Rose calls for government reform of the benefits system amidst increasing worklessness in the UK.The number of individuals unable to work due to long-term sickness has risen significantly.Rose emphasises the need to boost productivity and review the benefits system.He argues against reliance on benefits, highlighting personal experience and work ethic.Education and skill development are critical for future workforce sustainability, according to Rose.The UK’s worklessness issue has prompted Lord Rose, chair of Asda, to call for reform in the benefits system, citing a marked increase in individuals unable to work due to long-term sickness. The latest data from the Office…