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Simpsons Malt Limited has published its financial results for 2024, posting a profit before tax of £9.5million (2023: £15.2million) from a turnover of £264.1million (2023: £301.3million). For the fifth-generation, family-owned business and Certified B Corporation – which includes agricultural merchanting division McCreath Simpson & Prentice – profitability was lower than in 2023 due to several factors, including lower malt sales values, a small decrease in speciality malt volumes, increased costs and the quality of the 2023 malting barley harvest. The wider drinks market also presented challenges for base malt sales volumes, particularly to distilling customers. Whisky exports by value decreased by 9.5% in 2023 and a further 3.7% in 2024, with global trade disruption, weaker consumer spending and higher domestic taxation all impacting spirit production and therefore malt demand. The merchanting division, meanwhile, delivered another profitable year despite difficult trading conditions in UK agriculture. Grain and feed trading outperformed 2023 despite softer raw material costs and lower whisky production, while fertiliser returned to profitability after significant market disruption in the previous year. Over the past two years, the group has invested £31.7million in infrastructure projects to support malt customers, including £11.5million in 2024. At the company’s Tweed Valley Maltings, investment in base malt and peated malt capacity was completed during 2024, while malt storage projects were also either completed – or neared completion – at both the Tivetshall and Tweed Valley malting sites. The commissioning of the renewable Energy Centre neighbouring the company’s Tweed Valley Maltings also started at the end of 2024 and has reduced the carbon footprint of malt produced at the site by around 76%, while lowering the group’s carbon emissions by around 55%. Speaking about the financial results for 2024, Simpsons Malt Ltd Managing Director, Tim McCreath, said: “While profitability was lower in 2024 than in 2023, we have continued to deliver strong results in a challenging environment." “We have continued to invest in our infrastructure with numerous projects completed in 2024, while our long-term commitment to utilise renewable energy through the Energy Centre neighbouring our Tweed Valley Maltings highlights the positive environmental changes we are making. The drastic reductions in malt production emissions not only provides direct benefits to us as a business but also ensures significant carbon footprint reductions for malting customers we supply out of our Tweed Valley Maltings.” Photo: Founded in 1862, Simpsons Malt Limited is an independent, fifth-generation, family-owned business and Certified B Corporation comprising a malting division. (Simpsons Malt and an agricultural merchanting division McCreath Simpson & Prentice).

Vistage, the leading business performance and leadership organisation for small and medium-sized businesses across the UK and Ireland, has released results from its quarterly CEO Confidence Index for 2025. The quarterly confidence index, which is based on responses from business leaders, has declined to 88, down from 89.5 in Q2 2025 and 107.1 in Q2 2024. The results also indicate that SMEs are in an era of cautious optimism amidst economic uncertainties. While more than half of all those surveyed anticipate increased revenue (57%), 22% foresee a decline in profitability in the next 12 months. Only 10% expect to see any improvement within the economy over the next 12 months, highlighting a prevailing sense of caution and concern about the future economic conditions. Businesses Brace Themselves For Budget According to the report, the vast majority of business leaders (76%) are either not very confident or not confident at all that the upcoming Autumn Budget will deliver policies that support business growth. When asked which measures would most improve SME confidence in the economy, more than half of respondents (58%) highlighted cuts to business taxes, such as Corporation Tax or Employer National Insurance, as their top priority. Additional measures identified included: • Investment in infrastructure (20%) • Reducing regulatory burden (10%) • Targeted investment incentives (9%) • Support in the labour market (4%) Firms Grapple With High Pricing As Sales Weaken As economic pressures mount, 42% of SMEs expect to raise prices in the coming months, while 19% have already increased prices by 7-10% since the start of the year. These price increases come at a challenging time as customer demand softens, with one in four small business leaders reporting a noticeable drop. The combination of rising costs and weakening demand underscores the difficult balancing act SMEs face: maintaining profit while keeping customers engaged. Investing In People To Propel Forward More than a third (37%) of small business leaders plan to expand their workforce over the next 12 months, demonstrating a clear intent to invest in growth even as economic challenges persist. Most SMEs are embracing flexible working arrangements, with nearly two-thirds operating a hybrid model that blends remote and onsite work, while just under a third remain fully onsite. Employee engagement remains a top priority. Leaders are actively tracking the team’s well-being through regular one-on-one meetings and engagement surveys, while focusing on building a positive workplace culture, recognising achievements, and providing career development opportunities. This emphasis on people suggests that SME are not only preparing for growth, but are also investing in the resilience and satisfaction of the teams. Rebecca Drew, Managing Director, Vistage UK and Ireland said: "Our latest index reflects a complex picture facing SMEs in the UK and Ireland. While leaders are grappling with rising costs, weaker customer demand, and uncertainty around government policy, many are still focused on growth - planning to expand their team and invest in employee engagement. The results show that SMEs are navigating a challenging economic environment and making decisions to safeguard both their people and their bottom line." "As such, the leaders most adept at navigating uncertainty are actively turning to their peers for perspective and guidance, helping them make informed decisions and position their businesses for long-term success.” As part of Vistage’s ongoing support for business leaders, the quarterly CEO Confidence Index offers a clear view of economic sentiment, enabling leaders to make smarter decisions in today’s complex environment. To learn more about how Vistage supports high-performing leaders through insight, mentorship and community, visit here.

Across the UK, families who rely on vital in-home care services are at risk of losing the support they depend on, as smaller live-in and domiciliary care providers are being forced to close their doors under rising costs, warns Noble Live-In Care, part of City & County Healthcare Group (CCH), the UK’s largest provider of community-based care. While much public attention has focused on care home closures, the impact of some care providers closing doors is being felt even more acutely in family homes. These providers allow people to remain living safely and independently at home - but rising operational costs are pushing many to breaking point. Kirsty Prendiville, Head of Operations at Noble Live-In Care, said: “Recent budget decisions are putting immense pressure on smaller live-incare providers, ones that have spent years building their community and carer to patient relationships. " "This year, the Department of Health and Social Care outlined plans for the hand back of care contracts from struggling care providers which really hit home - the industry is in crisis and it’s the families that are impacted first and foremost.” She adds: "Families tell us every day how much they want their loved ones to stay in the comfort of their own home, supported by carers who know them well. But many smaller providers simply cannot keep going under the weight of rising wage bills, National Insurance contributions and fuel and transport costs. Even as a larger provider, we feel the brunt of these increases, so it’s no surprise that smaller companies struggle. Families are, in some cases, left scrambling for care – sometimes with less than a week's notice." Noble Live-In Care highlights in detail the mounting pressures for some care providers: Employer National Insurance contributions have risen to 15%, up from 13.8%, adding a significant additional cost for every member of staff. For smaller care providers operating on tight margins, this increase alone can represent tens of thousands of pounds annually. The threshold for employer NI contributions has fallen, meaning providers now pay National Insurance on a broader portion of their staff wages. This change hits smaller agencies hardest, as they typically have a lean workforce and limited ability to absorb extra costs without passing them onto families. The National Living Wage has increased by 6.7%, further raising payroll expenses. For small providers, this affects existing staff costs and can force difficult decisions about recruitment and retention, risking service disruption. Public transport costs for care workers rose by 4.6% in March 2025, impacting carers who travel between clients’ homes daily. Many smaller providers cannot subsidise these rising costs, creating both financial strain and logistical challenges in maintaining consistent care schedules. Fuel costs have increased by 6.4%, hitting both providers and care workers who rely on cars for home visits. For live-in care providers, whose staff may need to travel significant distances to reach clients, these increases translate into higher service costs and reduced flexibility, ultimately affecting families who depend on reliable, home-based care. Combined, these factors are creating a perfect storm for smaller live-in and domiciliary care providers: tight cash flows, rising staff costs and limited room to increase fees for families who are already facing high care expenses. For many providers, continuing operations without support or financial relief is becoming increasingly hard. “At Noble Live-In Care, our scale and backing from City & County Healthcare Group allow us to absorb costs that would cripple smaller entities. It also enables us to take a leadership role in the sector, advocating for change and supporting families when others cannot.” Prendiville added: “This isn’t just about providers – it’s about families who are suddenly left without the care they rely on. We need urgent collaboration between government, regulators and providers to safeguard community care. Without action, more families will face the distress of seeing loved ones left without support.” Noble Live-In Care remains committed to keeping care affordable for families while ensuring fair pay and recognition for its carers. For more information visit here.

Following recent media speculation, J Sainsbury plc (“Sainsbury’s”) confirms that it is in discussions regarding a potential sale of Argos Retail Group Limited (“Argos”) to JD.com, Inc. (“JD.com”). Argos is the UK’s second largest general merchandise retailer, with the third most visited retail website in the UK and over 1,100 collection points. Sainsbury’s is committed to delivering the strongest and most successful future for Argos customers and colleagues and the Group’s ‘More Argos, more often’ transformation strategy is delivering solid progress. A transaction with JD.com would accelerate Argos’ transformation. JD.com would bring world-class retail, technology and logistics expertise and invest to drive Argos’ growth and further transform the customer experience. The terms of any possible transaction would include commitments from JD.com in relation to Argos for the benefit of customers, colleagues and partners. No agreement has been reached and there is no certainty at this stage that any transaction will proceed. A further announcement will be made if and when appropriate.

Amputees across Glasgow will have more opportunities to socialise, exercise and rebuild confidence thanks to a new programme of wellbeing activities run by Finding Your Feet. Finding Your Feet (FYF) is the only charity in Scotland dedicated to supporting people who have experienced amputation or were born with limb absence. Founded in Glasgow, in 2014, by quadruple amputee Cor Hutton, the charity now supports over 1,400 individuals - 472 of whom live in the Glasgow area - with emotional, social and physical programmes designed to reduce isolation and promote independence. The charity’s work includes counselling, peer support, hospital visits and regular fitness sessions for FYF members, known as Troopers. They also work closely with the University of Strathclyde and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to ensure services are informed by research and clinical practice. The activities are designed to help Troopers regain confidence, improve physical health and gain a sense of community. Many participants continue their fitness journeys independently, opening up space for others to take part. Steven, a Trooper and FYF Peer Support Volunteer, described the charity’s support as lifesaving. “I am under no illusions that FYF, through their Counsellor, has helped to save my life,” he said, “It has improved my wellbeing in every aspect.” As a charity, Finding Your Feet relies on donations to continue supporting people like Steven. A £1,500 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will help cover the cost of some of these activities, including counselling, volunteer coordination, and travel expenses for amputees who would otherwise struggle to attend. Cor Hutton, founder of Finding Your Feet, thanked the Trust for the donation, saying: “We are hugely grateful to Allied Vehicles Group and the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust for this generous award of £1,500. These funds will go directly towards supporting amputees in Glasgow through adapted fitness sessions, counselling, hospital visits and ongoing wellbeing support. Their backing helps us reach more people when they need it most and makes sure no one faces limb loss alone.” David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, said: “A great deal of our customers are amputees, and it’s likely many have been Troopers supported by Finding Your Feet. That shared connection makes this donation especially meaningful. We’re proud to help fund activities that build confidence, foster friendships and support people as they move forward with their lives.”

Passengers flying from London Gatwick are now the first in the world to enjoy GAIL’s before boarding, as the much-loved London brand opens its debut airport bakery in the South Terminal. Known for its handcrafted baked goods, seasonal sandwiches and expertly brewed specialty coffee, GAIL’s brings craft baking and carefully sourced food and drinks to Gatwick’s departure lounge. The new bakery offers a wide selection of breakfast items, pastries, sandwiches, salads, sweet treats, and hot and cold made-to-order drinks – all made with the quality and care GAIL’s is known for. The new opening features a spacious seating area, ideal for those looking to relax before their flight, as well as an exclusive travel-focused range designed specifically for airport passengers, including grab-and-go options and new gifting items – perfect for last-minute presents or a taste of London to take abroad. The opening of GAIL’s will also bring significant benefits to London Gatwick’s local community, with more than 70 new jobs created, including a number of roles through the Rise with GAIL’s programme, which supports career development in hospitality and incorporates 45 different training programmes across the business. Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said: “We are delighted to be the home of the first ever GAIL’s airport bakery. GAIL’s is a firm favourite across London and beyond, and its arrival at London Gatwick reflects our commitment to offering passengers a wide range of high-quality, locally-inspired food options to get their journeys off to the best possible start.” Nick Ayerst, Managing Director, GAIL’s said: “We are thrilled to be opening our first airport location in London Gatwick’s South Terminal, building on the established success driven by new locations in London transport hubs. We’ve developed an extensive range to meet the specific needs of airport passengers and we look forward to sharing freshly baked, high-quality food and specialty coffee to those travelling through London Gatwick and beyond.”

Arbikie Highland Estate Distillery is proud to announce its official certification as a B Corporation™ (B Corp™), joining a global movement of businesses that meet the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Founded on the principle of field-to-bottle distilling, Arbikie has continually challenged industry norms. From cultivating its own crops, to distilling and bottling on-site, Arbikie’s approach has been rooted in sustainability and innovation from the outset. This vision has led to landmark achievements: Carbon-Negative Spirits  – Arbikie is home to the world’s first climate-positive spirits, Nàdar Gin & Vodka, made from peas. These spirits not only avoid emissions, but actively reduce carbon in the atmosphere. Green Hydrogen Power  – Arbikie is on track to become the first distillery continuously powered by green hydrogen, dramatically reducing reliance on fossil fuels and setting a new global benchmark for low-carbon distilling. B Corp™ Certification  – This recognition affirms Arbikie’s commitment to balancing profit with purpose, protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and operating with transparency. "Sustainability has never been a marketing slogan for Arbikie—it’s at the very heart of who we are," said iain Stirling, Arbikie Director. "Becoming a B Corp, producing the world’s first carbon-negative gin and vodka, and transitioning to green hydrogen energy are not separate projects, but part of a single vision: to prove that world-class spirits and environmental responsibility go hand in hand." "As a family business of over 400 years, it’s very important to my brothers and I that we build on what we inherited from our parents passing on a lasting, positive legacy from our generation to the next. " Arbikie’s Master Distiller, Dr Kirsty Black added “At Arbikie, sustainability has always been at the heart of everything we do - from field to bottle. Becoming B Corp certified is a proud moment for our team and reflects our deep commitment to sustainability, community, and crafting spirits with purpose. It’s an honour to stand alongside other businesses driving positive change across Scotland and beyond." Arbikie is now part of a growing community of over 10,000 businesses globally that have certified as B Corps. The B Corp community in the UK is the largest and fastest growing in the world, with over 2,500 companies spanning a range of different industries and sizes. Arbikie’s B Corp certification adds to Scotland’s growing reputation as a hub of sustainable innovation in food and drink, while reinforcing the distillery’s ambition to inspire positive change across the global spirits industry. As the world prepares to mark World Sustainability Day in October, Arbikie raises a glass to a future where craftsmanship, community, and care for the planet are inseparable.

Arkell’s Brewery is delighted to celebrate a remarkable milestone with long-standing licensees Jo and Keith Walkley-Pratt, who this year mark 30 years of running pubs with Arkell’s. Their story began in 1995 at their village pub, The Royal Oak in Bishopstone. A local newspaper even covered the moment, capturing Jo, Keith, and their baby daughter Ellie behind the bar as they began their first tenancy; a family story from day one. Five years later, they outgrew their village pub and took on the newly refurbished GW Bar in Swindon, which they ran for nearly a decade as a thriving corporate bar, restaurant, and hotel. Before relocating to The Bear in Wantage, they also managed The Rose & Crown in Ashbury with Jo’s parents. Over the past three decades, Jo and Keith have dedicated their lives to hospitality, building a reputation for warmth, professionalism, and community spirit. They have been at The Bear for 16 years, a 34 en-suite room hotel, restaurant, and pub. The en-suite bathrooms are currently undergoing a phased refurbishment, ensuring the hotel continues to offer modern comfort while retaining its historic charm. Today, their daughters Ellie, Sous Chef, and Georgia, Front of House Manager, lead the way at The Bear, but Jo and Keith remain closely involved, supporting them and keeping the pub a true family business at the very heart of Wantage. Jo Walkley-Pratt said: “From our very first meeting with James Arkell 30 years ago, we’ve always felt encouraged and supported. Arkell’s have stood with us through every scheme, refurbishment, and challenge as well as through the banking crisis, recessions, and pandemic. We’ve had an amazing time at each Arkell’s pub and can’t imagine doing anything else. With the garden parties, race days and Christmas parties, Arkell’s has always made us feel part of the family.” To mark the occasion, members of the Arkell family and brewery directors visited The Bear to personally congratulate Jo and Keith on their 30 years. James Arkell, Chairman of Arkell’s Brewery, reflected: “We were all thrilled to celebrate 30 years of Jo, Keith, and family with Arkell’s Brewery." "They are a highly professional, successful family, and we have enjoyed knowing them and working with them for all these years. It has been a pleasure. It’s fantastic that they have achieved such a length of service, and wonderful that it’s a real family affair.” For more information on Arkell’s Brewery visit here .

National security concerns are rapidly becoming a defining influence on corporate innovation strategies worldwide, according to the seventh annual International Innovation Barometer published today. The latest report by innovation funding consultancy Ayming  finds that national security concerns, from geopolitical instability to supply chain vulnerabilities, have become a top priority. Over two-thirds (67%) of small, and 85% of large, businesses are now integrating national security risks into strategic planning, with almost a quarter (23%) of companies reporting that these considerations have a significant influence on strategy. However, far from stifling creativity, these pressures are actively fuelling innovation. 81% of firms have effectively innovated in direct response to national security threats in the last five years, peaking at 91% in the Finance sector. The research points to a lasting trend, with nearly four-in-five (79%) businesses expecting to increase their investment in security-related innovation over the next two years. Innovation: Risk And Reward Cybersecurity tops the list of national security issues, which 54% of businesses cite as their biggest concern. However, it is also seen as the largest innovation opportunity (51%), reflecting a closer alignment between defensive priorities and commercial ambitions. The rise of dual-use innovation further underscores this shift, with over a quarter (26%) of companies developing innovations that serve both civilian and defence purposes. Nearly half (48%) of the Defence sector cites pressure for immediate results as the biggest barrier (48%) to innovation, suggesting that civilian industries will continue to drive strategic defence value. Njy Rios, Partner at Ayming UK, comments: “National security risks have shifted from a specialist concern to a core driver of innovation. The urgent need to protect infrastructure, supply chains, and digital systems is encouraging businesses to align R&D priorities with security goals, shaping a new era where innovation is measured not only by commercial impact but also by its contribution to stability and resilience." “As this trend accelerates, we expect to see unconventional partnerships emerge, with industries that once had little to do with defence now playing a direct role in it – in turn boosting their own performance.” Innovation: Enduring And Evolving Despite the volatile macroeconomic landscape, innovation remains a strategic imperative. The International Innovation Barometer finds that: ‘Enhancing operational efficiency’ is the top priority for businesses, followed by ‘driving innovation’ and ‘cost reduction’. 96% of businesses now have a dedicated innovation team, up from 78% last year. AI has become the top innovation priority, overtaking last year’s ‘new tools and technology,’ indicating its divergence from general technology. Talent shortages have emerged as the number one barrier to innovation, with the Energy sector hardest hit. Rios continues: “Even amid ongoing funding challenges and near-static budgets, the meteoric rise in dedicated innovation teams shows that businesses are prioritising innovation like never before." "At the forefront of this shift is AI – no longer just a subset of ‘technology improvements,’ but a distinct and dominant focus in its own right, driving speed, efficiency and strategic advantage.”

Companies up and down the UK are opening up their facilities to their local communities as part of National Manufacturing Day today. (Thursday 25th September) Schools, colleges and people looking for a career change will have the chance to see first-hand the potential roles on offer in this exciting and diverse sector. National Manufacturing Day really does have something for all age groups, from younger students making subject choices to school leavers and more experienced workers looking at the possibilities of reskilling for a career in manufacturing. The national day of celebration will give visitors the chance to take part in a variety of hands-on practical sessions, speak to apprentices, current employees and managers while gaining an understanding of advanced manufacturing at its cutting-edge. Roles range from marketing, logistics, research and development, design and production. Manufacturing covers a wide range of sectors including aerospace, engineering, chemical and pharmaceutical, food and drink, defence, automotive and renewable technologies. And delivers some of the highest paid employment opportunities available, with training available at every level of the career path. Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO of Make UK, the manufacturers organisation said: “National Manufacturing Day is growing every year and is where the diverse sector comes together to celebrate British innovation and showcase the careers on offer to people of all ages across the whole of the country." “Our companies are at the forefront of technology development and global design, and we hope this fourth National Manufacturing Day will encourage people who have never thought of manufacturing as their future to come along to see what it is really like. This is a highly paid sector with good jobs which offer something for everyone. I started my career as an apprentice engineer, and it is a decision I have not regretted for a single day.” Chris McDonald MP, Minister for Industry said: “As a former steelworker, I share the pride in making things that defines our manufacturing communities. Manufacturing offers high skilled jobs, pays higher wages, accounts for the majority of innovation spend and punches above its weight in exports." “This government believes in British manufacturing and our Plan for Change includes our Modern Industrial Strategy, with manufacturing at its heart. I’d like to thank our manufacturing industry and workers for their contribution to the UK economy as we mark National Manufacturing Day.”

The Original Baker, an artisan producer of handcrafted sweet and savoury pastry products, has completed a major expansion project following substantial investment from the Olidor Group. The funding has doubled production capacity, enabled the launch of innovative new product lines, and created a wave of skilled and entry-level job opportunities, delivering fresh economic benefits to the local community. The investment has included the construction of an additional 22,000 square feet of production capacity at The Original Baker’s North Malton site, plus investment into new equipment and enhanced logistics capabilities to support expansion into e-commerce providing products to smaller independent cafes, retailers and delis who want to offer exception sweet and savoury bakery products to their customers. Recruitment is underway, with roles ranging from bakery operatives and quality controllers to supervisory positions and specialist food technologists. Mike Walker, Managing Director: “This is a landmark moment for The Original Baker. The investment from the Olidor Group has enabled us to grow sustainably while staying true to our artisan roots. This expansion has strengthened our position as the leading producer of artisan premium pastry and created rewarding careers for talented people in our community.” The Original Baker became part of the Olidor Group in 2023. Olidor Group is an investment business with a proven track record of nurturing ambitious brands in the food industry. It’s portfolio includes; Brusco Food Group, Karimix, Four Anjels, The Artful Baker, Porter Foods and The Original Baker. Andrew Ashby, CEO at Olidor Group, commented: “We invest in businesses with strong values, exceptional products, and clear growth potential. The Original Baker ticks every box. Together, we’re building on their artisan heritage while creating a strong future for the brand and the people behind it. The support and backing of a larger group have enabled The Original Baker to make long term investments that will cement their position as the UK’s leading producer of handcrafted sweet and savoury bakery products.” The expansion is expected to create 30 new jobs over the next 12 months, boosting the local economy and supporting the food manufacturing sector in North Yorkshire. The Original Baker will continue to work closely with local suppliers and farmers, ensuring that the business growth also benefits the wider rural economy. Founded in 2016, The Original Baker is known for its award-winning range of handmade pies, pasties, and sausage rolls, made using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients. The company’s “Bake It Right” ethos has earned it a loyal customer base and a growing reputation for exceptional quality. About The Original Baker The Original Baker is an artisan bakery based in North Malton, North Yorkshire, producing premium handmade pies, sausage rolls, and pastries for retail and hospitality clients across the UK. With a commitment to quality, craft, and community, The Original Baker continues to champion traditional baking methods while embracing innovation to meet growing demand.

Deloitte in Scotland has welcomed 75 people to its graduate, BrightStart apprenticeship and industrial placement programmes this month. It comes as the firm’s award-winning graduate programme ranked fourth in the Times Top 100 Graduate Employer list for the fifth year running. The new joiners will take part in a firm-wide virtual induction into the world of professional services, in which they will be introduced to Deloitte’s innovative GenAI platform, PairD, and participate in networking events with colleagues. They will then participate in an in-person, technical induction tailored to their specific business areas. These include audit and assurance; tax and legal; and the firm’s consultative businesses – strategy, risk & transactions advisory; and technology & transformation. Kevin Johnson, Early Careers Partner at Deloitte, said: “At Deloitte, we are proud to invest in Scotland’s future by providing a world-class early careers experience that supports, challenges and develops the next generation of professionals. Welcoming so many talented graduates and apprentices each year is a genuine privilege, and it is inspiring to see them grow and flourish as they embark on their careers." “Having started my own career in Deloitte’s Edinburgh office as a graduate, I have firsthand experience of the wealth of opportunities, mentorship, and learning available to our new starts. It makes me especially proud that we continue to nurture future leaders right here in Scotland, helping them to build rewarding careers that contribute to our communities and economy.” Finlay Warnock, who has recently completed his first year as a BrightStart apprentice in Deloitte’s audit team in Edinburgh, described his experience with the firm so far as “transformative”. He said: “When leaving school, I realised that university wasn’t the only way forward. Choosing a professional apprenticeship with Deloitte in Edinburgh has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. From the very beginning I was earning, learning and putting my skills into practice, with so much support through mentoring and structured training. In less than a year I’ve grown in confidence and developed skills I thought would take me years to achieve.” Deloitte’s early careers programmes offer technical training opportunities and professional qualifications. To find out more, follow this link.