The United Kingdom has long been associated with traditional beverages like tea, but there's a new player emerging on the scene – British wine. Over the past few decades, the UK wine industry has been quietly gaining prominence and respect on both the domestic and international fronts. So what is behind the growth and increasing significance of the UK wine industry? A Changing Climate Historically, the UK climate was considered unsuitable for grape cultivation due to its unpredictable weather and low average temperatures. However, climate change has brought about a warming trend, turning previously inhospitable areas into prime grape-growing regions. Southern England, in particular, now experiences milder winters and warmer summers, mirroring the conditions of renowned wine regions in France. Sparkling Success One of the most significant contributors to the UK wine industry's growth has been the production of sparkling wine. Sparkling wine production, especially English sparkling wine, has garnered international acclaim, with wines rivalling Champagne in quality. The chalky soils of southern England have been compared to the terroir of the Champagne region, making it an ideal location for sparkling wine production and as a result has seen the steady growth of vineyards across this part of the UK. Award-Winning Wines UK wines have not only received critical acclaim but have also consistently won prestigious awards in global wine competitions. Vineyards in regions like Sussex, Kent, and Cornwall have produced award-winning still and sparkling wines. These accolades have boosted the industry's reputation and consumer trust, both domestically and abroad. Sustainability and Innovation The UK wine industry has been at the forefront of sustainable viticulture practices. Many vineyards have embraced organic and biodynamic farming methods, prioritising the environment and reducing their carbon footprint. Additionally, innovative techniques such as using natural yeasts and experimenting with different grape varieties have led to unique and exciting wine offerings. Economic Impact The growth of the UK wine industry has had a significant economic impact. It has created jobs in vineyards, wineries, and the hospitality sector. The wine tourism industry has also flourished, with visitors flocking to picturesque vineyards for tours, tastings, and events. In fact, WineGB ’s data shows that sales of English and Welsh wine continue to grow sustainably and manageably as new plantings come into production. Sales rose 10% last year to reach 8.8m bottles. Over a five-year time horizon since 2018, sales have consistently risen. Sales of sparkling wine have risen 187% since 2018, from 2.2m bottles to 6.2m in 2023. Sales of still wine have increased by 117% over the same period, from 1.2m to 2.6m bottles. This growth is even more impressive as it is against the wider trend of falling UK and global wine consumption. Export Opportunities British wine is no longer a well-kept secret. It is gaining traction in international markets, with exports to countries such as the United States, Canada, and Japan on the rise. The reputation for quality and the allure of English sparkling wine have contributed to the industry's success in exporting. Tourism and Education Wine tourism in the UK has experienced substantial growth, attracting both domestic and international visitors. Tourists can explore vineyards, attend tastings, and learn about the winemaking process. Educational initiatives, including courses and workshops, have also sprouted up to train a new generation of British winemakers. The UK wine industry has evolved from a niche pursuit to a vibrant and globally recognized player in the world of wine. With favourable climatic shifts, a commitment to sustainability, and a penchant for innovation, the industry is poised for continued growth. British wines have not only captured the hearts of locals but have also earned their place on the international stage, making the UK a rising star in the wine world. As climate change continues to reshape the landscape, it's exciting to anticipate what the future holds for the UK wine industry, a testament to human adaptability and the power of passion. Nicola Bates, CEO of Wines of Great Britain, the trade body for the English and Welsh wine industry, said: “We are growing sustainably with our production, and securing a 10% rise in sales, which is all the more remarkable with the wider decline in UK wine consumption. As consumers start to feel more confident with the economy, they will likely have more disposable income to discover our wines in pubs, bars, and restaurants. We expect a wider re-boot that will support our future wines reaching new markets and new drinkers." “GB wine is a success story that has shown extraordinary growth and development in the last decade as a result of significant investment. Vineyard and winery growth is projected to continue at pace.”

In the UK, all four nations (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) have their devolved parliaments, each with authority over its specific waste policy and regulations. These are often referred to as 'Devolved Waste Regulations'. This operates alongside UK-wide legislation (such as the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Environment Act 2021) to ensure a certain level of standardisation across the UK. However, it also allows each nation to tailor its own waste regulations to suit its specific needs and circumstances. In recent years, the government has reported recycling rates in England have increased to 42-44%, a 33% rise since 2000-2001. To further boost these figures and streamline the process, the government aims to simplify recycling for households and businesses. Instead of checking with local councils about recyclable materials, the goal is to establish a standardised approach where everyone recycles the same items. This move is expected to maximise the efficiency of recycling streams, increase overall recycling rates, and reduce waste. Scott Hawthorne, founder of 240 litre bins company, Skips and Bins , has delved into upcoming waste management regulations and laws that will impact businesses from 2025 onward. His research highlights the need for English businesses to reassess their waste disposal practices and prioritise recycling to comply with these new standards. Wales Inspires England's Waste Policy Starting March 31, 2025, businesses in England will be required to separate their waste into two distinct streams: dry recyclables and commercial food waste. A new commercial waste regulation, which came into effect in Wales on April 6, 2024, will be implemented in England starting March 31, 2025. This regulation aligns with Wales' ambitious goal of achieving zero waste by 2050, aiming to recycle, compost, and reuse 100% of waste. Since Wales implemented its new regulations, its recycling rate has stabilised at around 65%. This success has inspired England to set similar goals and adopt stricter regulations to boost its own recycling rates. A Guide to Dry Recyclable Materials According to the new regulations, businesses across England must combine and organise the collection of their dry recyclable waste. This waste stream typically includes glass bottles, metals (steel, aluminium, tin cans, trays, tubes, aerosols, and lids), plastics (bottles, pots, tubs), paper, and cards. Understanding Commercial Food Waste The new legislation mandates that all businesses across England must implement separate collections for food waste and adhere to specific waste presentation guidelines. While weekly collections aren't strictly required, businesses must ensure proper disposal of food waste. The government intends to process commercial food waste through anaerobic digestion (AD). This method is considered the most environmentally friendly way to handle unavoidable food waste, as it generates biofuel and digestate. The resulting digestate can be applied to land, recycling nutrients and promoting a more circular economy. Waste Regulations for Small Businesses Smaller businesses with 10 or fewer employees will experience more flexibility in separating dry recyclables and food waste. They will also have until March 31, 2027, to arrange for the collection of these waste streams. This extension will give small businesses time to prepare by utilising business support tools currently being developed by WRAP. These tools are designed to help businesses transition to the new requirements cost-effectively. Other Upcoming Waste Management Changes: The Impact of the Deposit Return Scheme Each year, UK consumers purchase an estimated 31 billion single-use drinks containers, including 12 billion plastic bottles, 14 billion drinks cans, and 5 billion glass bottles. Despite this, current collection rates range from 70% to 75%, with a substantial portion of these containers ending up as litter or in landfills. The UK, Northern Ireland, Scottish, and Welsh governments share a common goal: to increase the recycling rate of single-use drinks containers to at least 90%. This initiative aims to significantly reduce littering and expand opportunities to collect and reprocess high-quality materials. To achieve this goal, the government plans to implement a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in October 2027. This scheme will provide a financial incentive for UK consumers to return drinks containers, aiming to boost recycling rates to over 90% within a year of its launch. The government expects businesses to play a crucial role in identifying opportunities to invest and innovate within a thriving circular economy, thereby contributing to increased prosperity across the UK. Given that waste and recycling are devolved in the UK, four distinct but interoperable DRS schemes will be implemented: one each in Scotland, Northern Ireland, England, and Wales. This approach aims to simplify the process for businesses and consumers while enabling the UK to achieve the scheme's economic and environmental objectives. Starting in April 2027, all packaging, except for plastic films and flexible packaging, will need to carry clear labels indicating recyclability and the Recycle Now logo. This change, driven by Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (Packaging EPR), shifts greater responsibility onto producers to improve packaging waste management. In conclusion, the more proactive businesses are in updating their commercial waste disposal processes to align with these changes, the smoother their transition to the new regulations will be in March 2025.

ITV and BBC Sport have agreed a deal for live coverage of the FIFA World Cup 26 and FIFA World Cup 2030 across TV, audio and digital platforms. ITV will deliver free-to-air coverage of live fixtures across ITV1, ITV4, ITVX, STV and STV Player, plus highlights and exclusive content on ITV Sport social accounts. Alongside live TV coverage and highlights across the BBC TV Channels and iPlayer, live audio commentary will be broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra. Fans will be able to listen to 5 Live coverage on BBC Sounds and follow all the action on the BBC Sport website and app.  The two broadcasters will share the rights equally, splitting matches between them, including a shared final, ensuring continued free-to-air coverage of the FIFA World Cup. The draw for the FIFA World Cup 26 European qualifying competition took place at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich on Friday (13 December). The FIFA World Cup 26, hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, will see 48 teams playing 104 matches over 39 action-packed days. Meanwhile, the 2030 tournament promises a historical first by being held across three continents and six countries. Spain, Portugal, and Morocco are co-hosting, with three centenary celebration matches to be held in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, which will kick-off the tournament. Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, says: “We are looking forward to bringing these two tournaments free-to-air across ITV and ITVX. The World Cup always delivers some of the most memorable, historic and exciting moments in the sporting calendar and we are pleased to display the finest footballing action to the widest possible audience.” Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC Director of Sport, says: “Securing these iconic tournaments means BBC Sport is once again bringing people together for the biggest sporting moments." "The World Cup is magical, something the whole planet stops to experience, and we can’t wait to show it to audiences across all platforms." Mattias Grafstrom, FIFA Secretary General says: “The expanded FIFA World Cup is set to be an unforgettable event for football fans everywhere in 2026 and 2030. We are delighted to be able to extend our partnership with the BBC and ITV for the next two editions of the tournament, as they will provide strong platforms in the UK to reach the widest audience possible and optimise the viewing experience.” ITV Sports rights portfolio includes the Women’s Euros 2025, The FA Cup, Men’s Euro 2028, Six Nations, ITV Horse Racing, the Super Bowl and the Carabao Cup among many other sporting highlights. BBC Sport’s rights portfolio also includes the Olympic Games, The FA Cup, Men’s Euro 2028, Women’s Euros 2025, Women’s Super League, Wimbledon Championships, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and Match of The Day (Premier League and Champions League highlights).

As the global talent pool narrows, organisations must set aside preconceived notions about young professionals entering the workforce and listen to their insights, according to the latest report from CEMS – The Global Alliance in Management Education. Within The Future-Forward Workforce report, contributors offer ten tips for companies to help them harness and retain young talent. Featuring contributions from some of the world’s top companies and business schools, the report advises businesses to embrace the fresh ideas and unique perspectives of the next generation to unlock innovation. It highlights the importance of moving beyond traditional hiring metrics, urging employers to prioritise qualities like adaptability, eagerness to learn, and potential for growth over standard measures such as academic grades. Importantly it also discusses the importance of fostering collaboration between different age groups, creating opportunities for mutual learning. Ten Tips to Help Companies Harness Young Talent Below are ten tips given by contributors to the report, including senior representatives from Beiersdorf AG, Amplifon, and Santander: Listen without prejudice : Take the time to truly understand the perspectives of young professionals without preconceived notions. Understand what motivates your young talent and what they value and be flexible. Embrace their ideas and insights, recognising the potential for innovation and fresh thinking they bring. Form intergenerational working groups : Foster collaboration between different age groups within your organisation, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and mutual learning. Each generation can offer unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the collective wisdom of the team. Frame decisions with purpose : Consider the impact of every decision on people, planet, and profit. Ensure that organisational actions align with values of sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical conduct. Communicate and clarify : Transparent communication is essential. Clearly explain the rationale behind organisational decisions, highlighting areas where young professionals can contribute and make a difference. Be open to new methods of communication – the best ideas don’t have to come from face-to-face meetings. Invest in skills development : Prioritise continuous learning and skill-building initiatives to empower young professionals to thrive in diverse contexts. Encourage agility and adaptability, maximising the learning potential of every experience. Cultivate an inclusive culture : Create a workplace environment where young professionals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute. Embrace diversity and inclusivity as drivers of innovation and organisational success. Stay attuned to evolving needs : Recognise that the preferences and priorities of young professionals are constantly evolving. Stay informed about the motivations and aspirations of the current generation to effectively recruit and retain top talent. Look beyond grades : When evaluating candidates, prioritise qualities such as adaptability, willingness to learn, and potential for growth over traditional metrics like academic grades. Recognise that aptitude and attitude are valuable indicators of future success. Encourage experimentation : Foster a culture of experimentation and risk-taking where young professionals feel comfortable exploring new ideas and initiatives and where failure is seen as a valuable learning opportunity. Provide opportunities for growth : Offer young professionals controlled environments where they can stretch their abilities and take on new challenge. Nicole de Fontaines, Executive Director of CEMS, said: “Our latest report highlights the powerful, positive impact young professionals can bring to today’s workplace and offer advice to help companies make the most of this. Our graduates are leading the way in reshaping career paths and redefining what work can mean. Their goals go beyond traditional boundaries, driven by a deep desire for purpose, growth, and fulfilment. As they embark on their careers, they remind us that embracing change is key to progress." “For companies, there is real value in listening to and engaging with this new generation’s insights. At the same time, it’s crucial that recent graduates benefit from the experience of seasoned colleagues." "Successful organisations recognise that a dynamic, reciprocal learning environment—where new hires innovate alongside more experienced team members—enhances growth and keeps the workplace vibrant.” The report can be accessed here: The future forward workforce by CEMS

Two chefs at a North Lancashire hotel are celebrating the completion of qualifications to equip them with new leadership skills in the hospitality sector. The dynamic culinary duo of Joey Longmire-Dodd and Sam Pierce from Lancaster House Hotel have both been studying two year courses as part of their continuing professional development. 28-year-old Joey from Lancaster re-joined the hotel’s culinary team in 2018 and has worked his way up to being a sous chef. He has successfully completed his NVQ Hospitality Manager Level 4 qualification. Meanwhile, Sam, 38, also from Lancaster, is Babcock International’s first learner to achieve a distinction in his Level 3 Senior Sous Chef apprenticeship. The chefs’ training has been delivered with support from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues working in partnership with Inspiro Learning and Babcock International. It has allowed them to hone their skills whilst continuing to forge their careers and earn a living. Both chefs have been able to step up and take on greater responsibilities as a result of their studies, supporting head chef at Lancaster House Hotel Damien Ng in overseeing kitchen team members, managing shifts and helping to plan and deliver menus. Sam explains: “Joey and I both feel that our training has had a really positive impact on how we visualise the business. It’s certainly sharpened our awareness of managing the kitchen so that it runs as smoothly as possible." “We’ve both really enjoyed our studies and can clearly see how our development over the last two years is helping the food and beverage teams move forward. Our aim is to pass on as much knowledge as possible to the rest of the culinary team.” Damien Ng adds: “We’re thrilled with Sam and Joey’s progress and the completion of these highly valuable, practical qualifications. The training has had a big impact on the pair. They now have the ability to see the bigger picture when challenges arise and the management skills to think creatively to deal with them.”

Visit Leicester has launched a new guide to the city’s Cultural Quarter to showcase the area as a place to visit, be entertained, or in which to live or work. Established as a Cultural Quarter in 1989, Leicester’s former textile and shoe manufacturing hub has been transformed into a thriving area for artists, designers, craftspeople, creative businesses, visitors, food and drink lovers, fans of the arts and culture, and more. Located around the St George’s area of the city centre, the Cultural Quarter is now home to world class theatre at Curve, independent cinema at Phoenix, top live music venues, street art, exhibitions, great restaurants, trendy cocktail bars and real ale haunts, plus the LCB Depot, the hub of the city’s creative community. The guide highlights six key themes and provides ideas and inspirations for visiting the area: Entertainment Food & Drink Living & Staying Cultural Quarter Community Creative Businesses Arts in the Cultural Quarter You can pick up a copy of the printed guide from the Visit Leicester information centre and businesses around the Cultural Quarter, or download a copy from the Visit Leicester website. Councillor Vi Dempster, Assistant City Mayor - Culture, Libraries and Community Centres said: “Over the last two decades, the Cultural Quarter has been transformed from a former industrial area into a vibrant cultural hub." "This new guide will showcase the Cultural Quarter to visitors and residents alike, highlighting world-class theatre at Curve, independent cinema and digital art at Phoenix, great places to eat and drink, and a thriving community of creative businesses.”

Sainsbury’s has announced that it will increase pay for its 118,000 hourly-paid colleagues by a total of five per cent this year, taking the total salary for a full time colleague outside London from £22,882 to £24,026 by August 2025. Colleagues across both Sainsbury’s and Argos will move from £12 to £12.45 per hour in March, and £13.15 to £13.70 for those based in London, with a further increase to £12.60 per hour in August and £13.85 for those based in London. By August, pay for hourly-paid colleagues will have increased by 58 per cent since 2018. The increase is being split this year to allow Sainsbury’s to navigate a challenging cost environment, while ensuring it continues to lead the sector in how it rewards its brilliant colleagues. Simon Roberts, Chief Executive of Sainsbury’s, said: “Our people are fundamental to achieving our Next Level Sainsbury’s plan and we are pleased to announce that we will raise pay for our hourly-paid colleagues by five per cent in the year ahead, split into two separate increases to help manage a particularly tough cost inflation environment. "We believe in rewarding our colleagues well for delivering leading service and productivity and we will be the best paying UK grocer from March.” Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, said: “Usdaw has a longstanding and valued relationship with Sainsbury's and we welcome the staff pay increase in line with new real living wage rates. Our members are key workers in the business and it is only right they are fairly rewarded with a living wage.” Bally Auluk, Usdaw National Officer, said: “The working relationship between Usdaw and Sainsbury’s continues to strengthen, and we are pleased that the company has again worked closely with our Union’s representatives, during the recent pay consideration meeting. The business has decided to make a pay award totalling 5 per cent, despite lower inflation rates than last year and following on from previous significant pay increases." "The cost of living continues to be a key concern for our members, so the business’ decision to respond in such a positive manner, by matching the Real Living Wage once more, is a welcome one for our members.”

The carnation, with its ruffled petals and timeless charm, holds the honour of being January’s flower of the month. Renowned for its beauty, versatility, and rich symbolism, the carnation has captivated admirers for centuries. As the first flower of the year, it represents new beginnings, love, and distinction—qualities perfectly aligned with the spirit of January. Belonging to the genus Dianthus, which translates to 'flower of the gods,' the carnation boasts a rich heritage. Native to the Mediterranean region, carnations have been cultivated for over 2,000 years, admired by ancient Greeks and Romans for their fragrance and beauty. Their long history has made them a symbol of enduring admiration and devotion, themes that resonate deeply with the promise of a new year. One of the carnation's most enchanting traits is its wide array of colours, each carrying its own meaning. Red carnations symbolise deep love and admiration, while pink carnations are associated with gratitude and affection. White carnations signify purity and luck, making them particularly fitting for January, a month of fresh starts and resolutions. Yellow carnations, with their complex message of disappointment or cheer depending on the context, and purple carnations, often representing capriciousness, add to the flower’s layered meanings. This diversity of symbolism allows carnations to convey a range of emotions and intentions, making them a favourite in both celebrations and commemorations. The carnation's resilience is another quality that makes it an apt flower for January. Blooming in winter’s chill, carnations thrive in colder climates, their robust stems and vibrant blossoms defying the harshness of the season. This hardiness mirrors the human spirit at the start of the year, when people strive to embrace new challenges and forge ahead despite lingering winter darkness. Beyond their beauty and symbolism, carnations have practical appeal. They are among the longest-lasting cut flowers, making them a staple in floral arrangements. Their delicate, spicy scent adds a sensory richness to any bouquet, while their vibrant colours brighten spaces during the coldest months. Whether displayed alone or paired with other flowers, carnations bring elegance and warmth to their surroundings. In addition to their decorative appeal, carnations hold cultural and historical significance around the world. In Christian lore, they are said to have first bloomed at the crucifixion of Jesus, representing the tears of the Virgin Mary. This association has made them symbols of motherly love and devotion. In modern times, carnations have become emblematic of various causes, such as the red carnation’s role as a symbol of socialism and labour movements, and the white carnation’s association with purity and remembrance on Mother’s Day. January is a month of reflection and renewal, and the carnation, with its enduring beauty and profound meanings, embodies these themes with grace. Its bold yet delicate petals remind us of the strength and beauty that can emerge even in life’s most challenging seasons. As the flower of January, the carnation inspires hope, love, and determination—qualities that set the tone for the year ahead. Whether given as a token of affection or displayed as a cheerful reminder of resilience, the carnation is a fitting emblem for the start of a new year. Its timeless appeal ensures its place as not only a flower of the month but also a symbol of humanity’s enduring ability to find beauty, even in the depths of winter.

Great Central Railway (GCR) is delighted to announce the appointment of Ian Walters to its Board of Directors, bringing experience from his three-decade-long career in the railway to the popular heritage railway. A qualified accountant, Ian began his career in the retail and defence sectors before joining the rail industry in 1991. His tenure at Chiltern Railways saw him rise to the position of Finance Director in 2001. In 2009, Ian founded SLC, where he serves as Managing Director. Under his leadership, SLC has successfully opened 12 new railway stations, with an additional 11 set to open soon, and numerous projects in development. Ian also serves as a Director of E-Rail, a pioneering company that utilises land value capture to fund rail schemes, which has successfully funded part of the Northumberland Line. Additionally, he holds directorships at WSMR – an open-access rail proposal – and SLC Property and SLC Investments, further cementing his influence in shaping the future of rail. Richard Patching, Chairman of the Board at Great Central Railway, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ian Walters to the Board of Great Central Railway. Ian’s extensive experience in rail development, his innovative approach to funding and infrastructure, and his proven leadership in delivering successful projects make him a tremendous asset to Great Central Railway. His passion for rail aligns perfectly with our mission to preserve and enhance this historic railway, and we are confident that his expertise will help us achieve our ambitious goals.” Ian adds: "The Great Central Railway has a rich history and an important role in preserving the legacy of railways in the UK. I look forward to supporting the board to help it continue to inspire and delight future generations, while contributing to the broader community." Ian Walters’ appointment marks an exciting chapter for Great Central Railway, as it continues to provide unforgettable experiences for visitors and steam enthusiasts while securing its place in the future of heritage rail.

Blue Monday, also known as the ‘most depressing day of the year’ occurs on the third Monday of January every year. Returning to work after Christmas, the dark cold mornings, and nights and still a week away from payday all contribute to many people’s low mood. Mental health can be worse for many people during the winter months due to the short dark days and a lack of sunshine. In fact, 1 in 3 people in the UK suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, which often leads to low mood and lack of productivity. Those alarming statistics show just how important it is for individuals to prioritise their mental health. Blue Monday falls onto Monday 20th January this year. To avoid the blues on this year’s Blue Monday, leading camera equipment insurer photoGuard has spoken out on the mental health benefits of photography. Simon Bennett, Managing Director of photoGuard: “When we struggle with our mental well-being, the creative arts can help to calm our busy minds, give us an outlet for our emotions, and provide us with a sensation of being able to do something for ourselves.” Therapeutic photography allows people to use their photos for well-being or personal healing purposes. Photography has several therapeutic benefits linked to mental health, as it helps to showcase individual creativity, allows photographers to detach from their responsibilities and improves their mood. Photography can relieve anxiety The word "mindfulness" has been mentioned frequently over the past few years. The practice of consciously partaking in an activity can have similar benefits to meditation, which is what mindfulness is all about. Photography can be an act of mindfulness, when behind the camera, photographers can redirect their energy away from external concerns and solely focus on the moment and task at hand. After a photography session, individuals are likely to feel calmer and more present than prior to the session, which can be helpful when navigating through difficult situations. Photography can boost confidence When suffering from depression, anxiety, or any other mental health challenges, often it can have a negative effect on self-esteem. It can be difficult to find pride in activities that individuals enjoy, as sometimes even daily tasks like getting out of bed can seem impossible. In these moments, grabbing a camera and engaging in a photography session can be extremely valuable, as it can help address the feeling of being unable to accomplish anything. Seeing the results of the photographs can provide a boost in self-esteem and confidence. “Make sure to review back your photos and feel proud of your accomplishments” adds Bennett.

January has long been associated with resolutions and renewal, but for gin enthusiasts, it also marks the arrival of Ginuary—a month dedicated to exploring, celebrating, and indulging in the diverse world of gin. Born as a playful response to the traditional 'Dry January' movement, Ginuary is about balance: embracing the lighter side of life while savouring one of the world’s most versatile spirits. A History Steeped in Juniper Gin’s roots run deep, tracing back to the Middle Ages when it was originally developed as a medicinal tonic. Derived from the Dutch spirit genever, gin gained popularity in England during the 18th century’s 'Gin Craze.' Over the centuries, it evolved from a crude concoction into the refined and aromatic spirit we know today, characterised by its use of juniper berries and a variety of botanicals. Ginuary celebrates this rich history while highlighting the innovative strides the industry has made. From traditional London Dry gins to modern craft varieties infused with exotic flavours, gin today is a playground for creativity. Why Celebrate Ginuary? Ginuary offers an antidote to the often joyless resolutions of January. Instead of deprivation, it encourages discovery and mindful enjoyment. For those who love gin, it’s a chance to try new brands, experiment with cocktails, and deepen their appreciation of the spirit. For newcomers, it’s an invitation to explore gin’s incredible diversity and versatility. This month-long celebration has also coincided with the rise of the craft gin movement. Distilleries worldwide are creating gins with unique botanicals and flavours, from citrus-forward profiles to floral and spiced infusions. Ginuary is the perfect excuse to sample these creations, whether at home, in bars, or through gin-tasting events. Ways to Celebrate Ginuary There are countless ways to embrace Ginuary, whether you’re a casual gin drinker or a connoisseur. One of the most popular approaches is experimenting with cocktails. Classics like the gin and tonic or the martini remain timeless favourites, but Ginuary encourages creativity. Why not try a Negroni, a Southside, or a modern twist on a classic recipe using flavoured gins or unusual mixers? Another way to mark the occasion is by exploring local distilleries. Many craft gin producers host tours and tastings, offering insights into their production processes and the unique botanicals that define their products. These experiences provide a deeper connection to the spirit and a chance to support local businesses. For those opting for a low-alcohol approach to the new year, Ginuary doesn’t have to mean overindulgence. The rise of non-alcoholic gins and low-ABV cocktails offers a way to enjoy the ritual of a well-made drink without compromising on wellness goals. These options have expanded dramatically in recent years, with sophisticated, botanically rich alternatives that can rival traditional gin in complexity and flavour. A Spirit of Togetherness At its heart, Ginuary is more than just a celebration of gin—it’s about embracing the joys of connection and discovery. Whether sharing a carefully crafted gin cocktail with friends or learning the stories behind your favourite brands, the month embodies a spirit of conviviality. It’s also a reminder that moderation and enjoyment can coexist. Ginuary doesn’t advocate excess but instead invites us to slow down, appreciate quality, and find joy in the simple pleasures of life. In a month often associated with restriction and dreariness, it’s a welcome opportunity to infuse a little warmth and creativity into the season. As the gin renaissance continues, Ginuary has become a global celebration, bringing together enthusiasts and novices alike. It’s a time to honour gin’s heritage, explore its present, and toast to its future. So, whether you’re sipping a classic G&T, mixing up a vibrant cocktail, or savouring a non-alcoholic alternative, take a moment to raise a glass this January. Here’s to gin, discovery, and the bright possibilities of a new year.

Asda customers shopping in its Pilsworth store may notice some changes following work starting on site over the weekend. The renewal is focused on creating a more exciting shopping experience for customers in and around Bury, as well as improvements for colleagues working at the store. The upgrades include: Easier shopping: Simpler navigation and an updated store layout, making it more intuitive for customer to find what they need. Showcasing value and quality: Stronger consolidation of the food hall and investment into quality enhancing kit such as new low-level fridges within Produce, and a new Wines & Spirits zone. As well as an enhanced proposition across George and General Merchandise departments. Upgraded atmosphere: Fresh, modern look across the store including feature lighting and new overhead signage. Investment into digital will see more interactive aisle ends and a new Rewards vending unit for a connected and convenient shopping experience. The works will be carried over seven weeks and sections of the store will temporarily close at different times while they are being upgraded. The full project is expected to launch in March. Dedicated colleagues will however be on hand to assist customers and answer any questions they may have. Clear signage will also direct them to sections of the store that may have been moved in the upgrade and will let customers know what is closed and when. A spokesperson for Asda, said: “This £2 million investment in upgrading our Pilsworth store is focused on improving the shopping experience for hard-working families in the local community and our colleagues. We want shopping Asda Price to be as convenient and enjoyable as possible for all customers.” Asda is starting the year as it means to go on, with a focus on providing great value for hard-working families. It recently announced that it will be cutting the price of thousands of products that customers buy week in, week out in store and online by an average of 26% as part of its Big Jan Price Drop.