Author: Scott Dylan

Armah Switchgear in Washington has embarked on a strategic expansion. The move to a new facility at Hillthorn Business Park follows construction delays.This expansion aims to enhance production capacity and project a modern image, with plans for team growth and technological investments.Armah Switchgear, a notable power systems equipment manufacturer in Washington, has expanded its operations into a new 41,000 sq ft facility at Hillthorn Business Park. Construction delays had initially postponed the move. The expansion is designed to support exponential growth, as articulated by the company’s directors, who aim to increase the current workforce from 60, leveraging their expertise in…

Zerolight has enacted a series of strategic transformations aimed at improving its financial outcomes. The Newcastle-based tech firm specialises in 3D visualisation for automotive and other industries.In the past year, Zerolight has narrowed financial losses significantly while revamping its operational model. These efforts reflect a commitment to innovation and market diversification, enabling the company to secure new clients and sectors.The strategic shifts Zerolight has implemented set a positive tone for future growth and profitability. The measures taken have streamlined operations and enhanced the company’s market position, instilling confidence among stakeholders.Zerolight’s management remains optimistic about tapping into the digital transformation of…

Hobbycraft, a leading UK arts and crafts retailer, has embarked on a new chapter with its acquisition by Modella Capital. This significant transition comes amidst an economically challenging backdrop.Modella Capital, a specialist retail investor with a track record of supporting high-profile retail brands, has acquired Hobbycraft from Bridgepoint, the previous majority stakeholder. While the exact financial terms remain undisclosed, this strategic move marks Modella’s continued investment in the retail sector, following its involvement with chains like Paperchase and Tie Rack.This financial strain highlights the complexities faced by retailers in the current economic environment, where rising costs have impacted profitability despite…

Boyes has acquired the former Pindar site in Scarborough to enhance its distribution network. The historic retailer is investing in a 5.58-acre plot to support growth and operational efficiency.The acquisition aligns with Boyes’ expansion strategy, promoting improved logistics and storage capabilities for its 73 branches. This move reflects Boyes’ ongoing success and plans for future development.Acquisition of the Former Pindar SiteValue retailer Boyes has successfully acquired the former Pindar printing site in Scarborough. This acquisition marks a significant step for the company as it expands its operations. The 132,163 square foot facility, located at Eastfield Industrial Estate, becomes the latest…

A landmark tribunal decision ruled in favour of 3,540 Next employees in their equal pay claim.The tribunal found that store staff, predominantly women, were paid less than their male warehouse counterparts.Compensation will be provided to eligible employees, covering back-pay for up to six years.Next intends to appeal, arguing significant legal points remain unresolved.The initial ruling rejected most claims of direct discrimination and bonus pay disparities.A significant tribunal decision has been made concerning 3,540 current and former employees of Next Retail Limited and Next Distribution Limited, marking the conclusion of a six-year legal challenge for equal pay. The tribunal ruled that…

HMRC is scrutinising 791 of the UK’s largest companies across key sectors. These include banking, telecoms, and retail, amid suspicions of substantial tax underpayments.The banking sector faces particularly intense scrutiny, with suspicions of £7.9 billion underpaid. This development highlights the increasing focus on corporate tax compliance.According to a study by Thomson Reuters, HMRC’s investigations span critical sectors such as banking, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, retail, and oil and gas. This reflects HMRC’s increasing focus on ensuring tax compliance among major corporations.The sector’s tax liabilities have risen sharply, with the total value of tax under investigation climbing from £6.1 billion in 2018/19 to…

New research indicates a substantial shift in professional landscapes. According to a recent study, 71% of professionals are hesitant to change jobs due to job security concerns.This phenomenon, termed as ‘The Big Stay,’ suggests a significant focus on stability over career advancement, potentially impacting both individual career progression and broader economic growth.Prioritising Stability Over AdvancementThe study reveals that 75% of respondents consider job security a crucial factor when evaluating new opportunities. Interestingly, 16% of professionals admitted that insecurity in a new role has completely deterred them from applying.Chris Eldridge, the CEO of a leading recruitment firm, contrasts this trend with…

A radical land tax proposal in the UK is gathering unprecedented support from both sides of the political divide. Advocates suggest this groundbreaking reform could unlock economic growth while addressing widespread inequalities in the property tax system. With notable figures championing the cause, the momentum behind this idea is becoming increasingly hard to ignore.The proposed land tax echoes an early 20th-century idea endorsed by Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George. This scheme would replace council tax, stamp duty, and business rates with a flat annual tax on land value. The concept has found unexpected allies, including John McDonnell, former Labour…

River Island is reportedly taking action due to quality concerns with some suppliers.The company is demanding retrospective discounts on products it believes do not meet its standards, as reported by The Times.River Island has warned suppliers that shipments may be returned if discount requests are not honoured.A particular issue identified was with tops that were slightly shorter than expected.This dispute follows similar actions by Boohoo Group against some of its manufacturers.River Island has initiated demands for retrospective discounts from several suppliers over concerns regarding the quality and sizing of goods provided. This action has been reported by The Times, highlighting…

The latest survey from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) highlights a concerning downturn in small business confidence across the UK.Rising wage costs have emerged as the key factor behind this decline, posing significant challenges for small business owners.The FSB’s Small Business Index reported a sharp decline in confidence during the second quarter of the year. The index, which surveys over 1,000 small businesses, recorded a confidence score of -10.8, a significant drop of 16.3 points from the previous quarter.Small business owners are grappling with unprecedented employment costs. According to the survey, soaring wages were cited as the primary driver…