International façade specialist, Permasteelisa Group, has set its sights on global growth in the luxury retail market. With 511 projects successfully delivered since 2019 and 101 projects currently live, the company is renowned for being a market leader in the delivery of bespoke retail façades and fit outs for global luxury brands, mainly in Asia. As part of its ambitious plan in this market, the company has appointed a new General Manager, Antoine Cazalis de Fondouce, to lead the growth in existing and new markets, including APAC, North America, and the Middle East. It will operate as a global business unit under the brand name ‘Permasteelisa Gartner Retail’. Antoine comments: “We have a strong and growing team of over 160 specialists, who have delivered a demonstrable track record in executing bespoke projects that translate our luxury clients’ brand image into reality. We enjoy a very high level of repeat business from some of the world’s best-known luxury brands, thanks to our knowledge, experience, and investment in innovation." “I am thrilled to join such a talented and dedicated team, and I look forward to the exciting plans we have in place to drive the continued success and growth of this business.” Liam Cummins, Permasteelisa Group’s CEO, comments: "This investment is backed by a project portfolio that demonstrates incredibly strong credentials in this field." “I am confident that under the leadership of Antoine, our Permasteelisa Gartner Retail brand will exceed its strategic ambitions as part of our vision to remain the leading international façade specialist.”

Property consultancy Vail Williams has bolstered its London operation with two new young hires as business demand continues to grow. The firm, an active property adviser in the capital for more than two decades, has a team of 20-plus experts working from its base just off Soho Square. Freddie Worth, who has rejoined Vail Williams as a valuation surveyor following a pre-arranged career break, specialises in commercial property valuation, secured lending valuations, due diligence, building surveying, inspection and measurement He began his property career on work experience with the firm in 2022, to support his real estate degree and spent a further six weeks on rotation across agency, planning, valuation, building consultancy, and investment teams in London, Crawley and the Solent. Having subsequently been appointed on a temporary contract to assist the London planning team, Freddie took a break to go travelling before returning to Vail Williams full-time. He is now working on his Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) studies to become a chartered surveyor by 2027 and has ambitions to become a registered valuer. Sophia Piatto, who has joined Vail Williams as a planner, has key skills in planning applications, pre-applications, planning appraisals and planning policy advice. She was previously studying for her BSc in real estate at the University of Reading and spent a year at Vail Williams working full-time as part of her studies in 2022. In 2023, she returned to her studies, also working part-time at Vail Williams to broaden her practical property experience. Sophia supports the planning team with the formulation of planning applications and preparation of relevant planning documents and reports. She is currently enrolled at the University of Westminster studying for an MA in urban and regional planning through the Royal Town Planning Institute professional apprenticeship scheme. James Lacey, Vail Williams London regional managing partner, said: “We are committed to continued growth of our London operations and the expansion of our offering. These new appointments also reflect our strategy of growing our own talent. Both Freddie and Sophia have been known to us for some while and it is heartening to witness them beginning to bloom.” “Freddie is currently on rotation in the valuation team, supporting clients with the full range of commercial property valuation needs – and he is a fast learner, already dealing with a host of services as he grows his experience." “Although in the early stages of her career, Sophia has gained a great deal of work experience with various property consultancies and developers. Being able to see things from both a developer and consultant perspective provides her with a unique approach to planning consultancy.” Vail Williams’ property experts provide a range of advisory services for occupiers, landlords, investors, developers and lenders across the city. Services provided cover everything from investment expertise and business rates support, to lease advice and property valuation. Above Photo: New Faces - Vail Williams’ two new London hires Freddie Worth, second left, and Sophia Piatto, centre, are flanked by James Lacey, London regional managing partner, left, and partners Varun Dev Gudka and Sarah Isherwood

Williams Racing Academy Driver Luke Browning will make his full-time debut in FIA Formula 2 with Hitech GP for the 2025 season. After an impressive 2024 campaign in Formula 3, the British driver stepped up to Formula 2 for the final three rounds of this season with ART Grand Prix. He scored points on his debut in Baku, with a seventh-place finish in the Feature Race, and followed that up with more points for sixth place in the Sprint Race at Abu Dhabi’s season finale. Luke will be making his return to Hitech after competing in the 2022 GB3 Championship and the 2023 and 2024 Formula 3 seasons with the team. He also put on a dominant display at the historic Macau Grand Prix with Hitech in 2023, qualifying in pole position and securing both the win and the fastest lap in the race. The progression to a full-time Formula 2 drive marks the latest step on Luke’s Williams Racing Driver Academy journey, which began when he joined in 2023. As reward for a promising Academy career so far, Luke had the opportunity to drive the FW46 during Free Practice 1 in Abu Dhabi and will be driving Alex Albon’s car in this week’s end-of-season Young Driver Test at the Yas Marina Circuit. The Williams Racing Driver Academy has a proud tradition of supporting young talent, which has most recently seen Academy product Franco Colapinto graduate to an F1 race seat. The Driver Academy supports drivers on every rung of the motorsport ladder, working with them on and off the track to develop the skills necessary to race at the top level. Luke Browning: “I’m so happy that I’ll be racing in F2 with Hitech next season. I’ve been through every category of single-seater racing with this team and to be able to complete the ladder with them is incredibly important and special for me. There is nothing I want more than to win the F2 Championship with this group of people around me, and that is our goal for 2025.” Sven Smeets, Sporting Director, Williams Racing: “I’m looking forward to seeing Luke begin his first full season in Formula 2 after earning a well-deserved seat with Hitech GP for 2025. Luke’s performance in Formula 3 and his initial three weekends in Formula 2 have demonstrated his capabilities against his peers, proving he is well-prepared for the season ahead. We will continue to support Luke’s development as part of the Williams Racing Driver Academy and closely follow his progress in 2025.”

Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd has helped to kick-start the festive season by volunteering at the Candlelighters Christmas Party. Candlelighters provides support to families dealing with children's cancer. Earlier this year, it was named the children’s charity of the year at the Yorkshire Children of Courage Awards, which recognises the bravest and most courageous children and young adults, as well as the charities that support them in the region. Each year, the charity hosts its Christmas Party, helping to bring some festive joy to families affected by childhood cancer and make precious happy memories. Once again, Konica Minolta joined other organisations, including its partner Intuitive BI, and other volunteers, to kickstart the festive season for around 60 families. Held in Bradford, the party was packed with games, activities, stalls and entertainment that included Champ the elephant (the Candlelighters official mascot), Super Mario, Mickey Mouse, Anna and Elsa from Frozen, characters from Star Wars and of course a visit to Santa’s grotto. Marie Woodhead, Partner Marketing Manager at Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd, has been volunteering and fundraising for Candlelighters throughout the year, participating in its Ready Steady Cook challenge and coordinating Konica Minolta’s chocolate egg and toy donations. Marie comments: “This was my first time attending the Candlelighters Christmas Party and the team and I found it an afternoon of pure joy. Seeing the children light up meeting Santa, dancing with their favourite characters, and even booing the Grinch was truly heartwarming. It was an honour and a privilege to be part of this beautiful event” Environment, Social & Governance Partner at Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd, Gillian Anderson, says, “We are very proud of how the team has seized the opportunity to dedicate their volunteering time, to support our chosen charities throughout the year. Everyone involved has helped to have a positive impact for the people in their communities who need it most.” About Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd Konica Minolta is a market-leading Hardware Manufacturer, Smart Data and Digital IT Services company that builds and transforms digital business operations, workplaces, and IT infrastructures to meet the changing needs of customers of all sizes, across departments and industry sectors - both private and public sectors. A broad portfolio of hardware and solutions and services include IT Infrastructures, Managed IT Services & Support, Process Digitisation and Automation, Digital Print, and Intelligent Video Solutions, as well Outsourced helpdesks and service desks for both front & back-office tasks. Konica Minolta combines world-class technology partnerships with end-to-end expert operations and processes - from design to support, to transition 10,000 UK customers and partners to the future of work and our vision of an “Intelligent Connected Workplace”. The company has won awards for its social contribution and is committed to workplace wellbeing, achieving its Sustainable Development Goals throughout the business and wider supply chain. Konica Minolta is listed among the ‘2022 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World’ and has received the highest level in EcoVadis Sustainability Ratings. Part of the global Konica Minolta Group, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd is headquartered in Basildon, Essex with 10 regional offices across the UK, employing over 750 people.

After a year of pay exceeding inflation, the tables seem to be turning on worker pay expectations as employers take stock of regulation and tax hikes. That’s according to the latest data from international recruitment expert, Robert Half. Key Findings: - 63% of workers are confident in their job prospects for the next six months - But 70% are finding it more challenging to negotiate a pay rise - 44% of businesses funnelling budgets into technology to enhance productivity instead Data from the firm’s latest Jobs Confidence Index (JCI) – an economic confidence tracker produced in partnership with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) - revealed that 63% of workers are confident in their job security for the next six months. However, a slowdown in real wage growth and an eight-point drop in the pay confidence pillar of the Index indicates that the tide is turning for workers – with the power shifting back to employers. Additional statistics from Robert Half further indicate a reversal in remuneration growth potential. According to its 2025 Salary Guide, 70% of workers are finding it more challenging to negotiate a pay rise compared to last year. Employees do, however, feel they deserve an increase, whether that’s due to the growing costs of living (39%), because they expect it every year (29%) or due to exceeding performance goals (25%) Employers are seemingly less willing to further add to employment costs, focusing instead on improving productivity. Data from the firm’s 2025 Salary Guide revealed that 44% of businesses are planning to implement automation and digital transformation to enhance productivity, while 40% are optimising workflow management. According to Robert Half, with increases to National Insurance Contributions (NICs) also adding to financial pressures, it is less likely workers will get the pay rise they want in the New Year. Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland, at Robert Half commented: “Workers have seen high wage growth in response to the cost-of-living crisis, which has led to a level of expectation among employees of continued pay rises. The reality, though, is that many firms simply can’t sustain this, particularly with NICs set to increase. " “Given that the UK’s productivity levels have remained stubbornly low, we are seeing a growing number of companies looking at ways to streamline current operations and better utilise resources. This is likely to continue until the economic climate settles from the recent upheaval we’ve experienced. However, that’s not to say that workers will lose out overall. The proposals in the Employment Rights Bill and a general recognition within the business community that advanced perks and benefits are a must in the modern world, mean that employees will reap the rewards beyond their pay packets.”

The latest Lloyds Business Barometer found that confidence fell in November, with the index dipping three points to 41%. Considerably above the long-term average of 29%, the change followed a period of sustained positivity from businesses, as confidence reached the highest level reported since 2015 during May, July and August this year. The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running for more than 20 years since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide. Businesses were asked about their optimism in the wider economy as well as their own trading prospects, with results indicating relatively positive sentiment. Despite indications of uncertainty in the wider environment, trading prospects continued to be resilient. Trading Prospects & the Economy Although more than half of all respondents (52%) were more optimistic about the economy than three months ago, 26% felt less positive – up from 20% in October. Consequently, the overall result for economic optimism fell 9 points to 26%. Businesses did, however, demonstrate more positivity in their own trading prospects. Only 8% of firms said they expected less activity in the coming year, while 63% predicted more. As a result, the overall score for trading prospects in November rose to 55%. Employment Insights Although hiring intentions reduced for the third time in four months, over half of all business-owners expected to increase the number of employees on their books. 52% of respondents had plans to increase the size of their workforce, three times the number of businesses expecting to downsize (17%). Despite a moderate reduction, expectations around pay are still elevated in comparison to the last four years. Nevertheless, the number of businesses that expected wage growth of 3% or more fell for the third month in a row (30%). Similarly, the proportion of businesses expecting at least 4% pay growth dipped to 16% - a four-month low. Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist, Lloyds Commercial Banking, said: “In November, the overall confidence metric fell by 3 points for the third month running. This is the lowest level since June, but still above the survey’s long-term average, which is ultimately positive from a longer-term perspective." “These results suggest that while firms have mixed views about the economy, they see their businesses in a good place to cope with any challenges they might face. Hiring intentions, although moderating this month, haven’t fallen by much which is also positive news. “Overall, these results show that businesses are still positive and feeling resilient, albeit with tempered views on the economic outlook.” Pricing Insights Slightly fewer businesses plan to increase prices in the coming months. 63% of respondents said they expected the costs of their goods and services to increase (down from 64%), while a further 3% expected to lower them. These results still indicate that the breadth of businesses expecting to raise their prices remains above pre-pandemic levels. Sector Insights Firms in the manufacturing sector reported the first rise in trading prospects in four months, with the net balance up 3 points to 49%. Companies in construction and services also indicated stronger business growth outlooks with net balances of 56% (up 6 points) and 61% (up 4 points), respectively. Retail firms, however, signalled softer prospects for a second month running, with the trading prospects net balance down 6 points at 45%. Paul Kempster, Managing Director for Relationship Management, Lloyds Business & Commercial said: “It’s clear that businesses are feeling confident in themselves, evidenced by their buoyant trading prospects, which is great news for the UK." “There has been an improvement in manufacturing – for the first time in four months – as well as construction and services which is welcome news, considering our sectors can play a huge role in boosting economic growth." “Despite a fall in some of the regions, it is encouraging to see resilience elsewhere. But no matter where businesses are based, we are here to support and continue helping them – and Britain – prosper.” Regional Insights Confidence fell in nine of the 12 UK regions and nations this month. The biggest drops were in Yorkshire & the Humber, and Northern Ireland. There were also sizeable pullbacks in the North East, Scotland and the East Midlands. The North East still remained in the top three in terms of the level of confidence, owing to previously strong results. Bucking the trend with stronger confidence are the West Midlands, the East of England and London. The West Midlands’ sharp rise propelled the region into second place behind the Capital which registered a marginal improvement. The North West is in joint third place with the North East.

Nine-year-old Felicity Chan from Loughborough switched on the Christmas lights. Photo shows - from left: Lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres Councillor Jennifer Tillotson, Mayoress Julie Ellerbeck, Felicity Chan and the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Dr Julie Bradshaw MBE. Thousands of people visited Loughborough on Friday, 29 November to see the Christmas lights being switched on. The event, organised by Charnwood Borough Council, kickstarted a weekend of festive fun with stage entertainment, festive food and drink, and fairground rides for the little ones. The Christmas lights were switched-on by Light up Loughborough competition winner Felicity Chan, accompanied by the Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr Dr Julie Bradshaw MBE. The event was made extra special for Felicity as the Council has installed new lights this year. Nine-year-old Felicity, from Loughborough. said: “It was so exciting to switch-on the Christmas lights in front of so many people and I hope that everyone had a lot of fun.” The youngster was chosen to switch-on the lights after judges heard her story about the selfless way that she has helped her parents through their health struggles, whilst raising over £1,000 for charity The Little Princess Trust. Councillor Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: “The Christmas spirit has well and truly arrived in Loughborough with such a fantastic turnout at the lights switch-on on Friday. The new lights in Market Place went down well and it was great to see so many people enjoying the entertainment on the stage from local performers." “I was especially pleased to give young Felicity the opportunity to switch-on the Christmas lights. She did a brilliant job, and her family were so proud of her. She was a deserved winner, and I’m sure she had a memorable day. Thank you to everyone who attended all of the weekend’s festivities and I would like to wish you all a happy Christmas!” The Mayor said: “I couldn’t think of a more wonderful way to kickstart the festive season than to switch-on the Christmas lights in front of so many happy and excited visitors." “To do so alongside such a deserving youngster as Felicity has been one of the highlights of my year as Mayor of Charnwood. She really is a shining example of what this time of year is all about: caring for others." “I am also glad that we have been able to hold an entire weekend of festivities for residents from Charnwood and visitors from outside of the borough. I hope you all had an amazing time, and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” Local radio station, Fosse 107 hosted the stage at this year’s Christmas lights switch-on with thanks to headline sponsor, Loughborough Kia. The entertainment began at 4pm with Loughborough Student Union (LSU) Classical Concert Band and later included performances from St Botolph’s School, Loughborough Schools Foundation (LSF) Concert Band, Ilea Cavner, Jonezy and Jake Thompson. The new lights were a big hit with visitors, with the ground-level features – including a giant present, teddy bear and a fox – particularly popular with families and visitors, who posed for hundreds of photos with them. The festivities continued over the weekend with a host of family friendly activities taking place in Market Place on Saturday, 30 November, including market stalls, Christmas characters meeting and greeting visitors and a special performance from carol singers around the Christmas tree from Charnwood Voices and Carey Hall Baptist Church Choir. Love Loughborough were kept busy with their popular gift-wrapping service. The next day saw the return of the Loughborough Santa Run on Sunday, 1 December after last year’s run was cancelled. Organised by Rainbows Hospice, Market Place was filled with hundreds of happy runners who donated to Rainbows by taking part in the run. The Mayor joined Love Loughborough Chair Lez Cope-Newman and the Dame from Loughborough Town Hall's Snow White pantomime on stage to count down and get the run started. In the afternoon, a big screen in the Market Place showed two festive classics, Elf and Muppets Christmas Carol to an appreciative audience. The films were chosen based on the results of a poll conducted on the Council’s Facebook page. There were stalls serving food and hot drinks for cinemagoers feeling the cold. You can find photos from the Loughborough Christmas lights switch-on and the weekends festive events by visiting the photo album. The Christmas Lights Switch-On and Christmas Cinema events were two of several events which form part of the Living Loughborough project which is being supported by Loughborough Town Deal. The Town Deal secured £16.9 million from the Government’s Towns Fund to support 11 projects and in total, they are worth more than £40 million of investment.

Leeds-based golf mental performance coaching company, Underpin Sports has appointed Chris Hargreaves as its business development manager to drive business growth across the North of England. Chris’ focus is on expanding Underpin’s 72 Club – a corporate network which brings together companies in sectors ranging from accounting to construction – to help fund and support the mental development of elite amateur and professional golfers. Each 72 Club corporate member benefits from strategic partnership opportunities, an annual programme of high-profile golf and networking events and the ability to help fund the mental performance coaching of players who are at the development stages of their golfing career and often under financial pressure. As well as established tour professionals, Underpin currently supports a range of up-and-coming golfers across Yorkshire, the UK and Europe, such as George Bloor who plays on the Challenge Tour, Tom Thurloway who plays on the Clutch Pro Tour, and Lorna McClymont who is about to turn pro and compete in the Ladies European Tour Q School in Morocco next month. Chris has played golf to a high standard for over 30 years and brings extensive commercial experience from various sectors, including finance, private healthcare, insurance and hospitality. Commenting on his appointment, Chris Hargreaves said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Underpin and be in a role which combines my lifelong passion for golf with the opportunity to be part of an exciting and fast-growing business." “Looking ahead, I’m focused on raising Underpin’s profile across the north of England and helping to grow our network of members. It’s an exciting time for the business, and I’m confident that together we can achieve great things, both for our corporate clients and for the talented players we support on their journey to competing at the highest level.” Greg Robertson, founder and director of coaching at Underpin added: “Chris’ passion for golf, combined with his experience in business development makes him the perfect fit for this role. He brings a fresh perspective and a strong drive to grow our 72 Club.” “We’ve worked to build a company that captures the widespread enthusiasm for the sport and the opportunity to invest in the future development of elite amateur and professional golfers in the north, while offering a compelling networking proposition to businesses. Our 72 Club has made significant strides over the last 12 months, and includes companies such as Mackinnon Bruce, Blacks Solicitors and The Q Hotels Collection, and bringing Chris into the team will only strengthen this further.”

Women currently make up 43% of directors on FTSE 100 boards and 42% on FTSE 250 boards – meeting the Women Leaders Review targets However, the number of women holding executive positions across the FTSE 250 fell from 47 in 2022 to 42 in 2024 – a decline of 11% An ‘executive gender paradox’ across FTSE 250 boards has emerged, as the gap between the number of women in NED roles and executive roles grows The number of women holding executive directorships on FTSE 250 boards has fallen 11% in the last two years, from 47 in 2022 to 42 in 2024, according to Cranfield University’s latest Female FTSE Board Report, supported by EY. The decline comes despite overall female representation on FTSE 250 boards continuing to rise, and means women now represent just 12% of executives across these companies. Now in its 25th year, the Female FTSE Board Report research found that 42% of overall directorships on FTSE 250 boards are currently held by women – an increase of 3% from 2022. 174 FTSE 250 companies have at least 40% females on their board, meaning 70% have now met the Women Leaders Review  target. Of the 793 women holding directorships on FTSE 250 boards in 2024, just ten are Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) (a 17% decline from 2022), 23 are Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) (12% decline from 2022), 35 are Chairs (unchanged from 2022), and 125 are Senior Independent Directors (50% increase from 2022). This means the increase in female representation in directorships on FTSE 250 boards was solely driven by women in NED roles. Sue Vinnicombe, Professor of Women and Leadership at Cranfield School of Management, who has overseen the Female FTSE Board Report since 1999, commented: “With the percentage of women in director roles meeting the Women Leaders Review targets, the headlines look great – but the persistent reality remains, that the glass ceiling for women in executive level positions is still stubbornly in place. An ‘executive gender paradox’ across FTSE 250 boards has emerged, as the gap between the number of women in NED roles and executive roles grows." “Through their own tenacity, drive and experiences some women do make it to the top positions, but once they get to the c-suite they often find themselves unsupported and in a male dominated environment. To say that’s disappointing in 2024, 25 years on from when I started this report, is a huge understatement. It’s clear that many issues must still be addressed before we can really expect to see significant and meaningful change in the number of women executive directors.” Female executive directors on FTSE 100 boards rises, but remains concerningly low Across the FTSE 100, 74 companies have met the target of having 40% women on their boards. 43% (450) of FTSE 100 directorships are held by women, however, just ten are CEOs, 24 are CFOs, 165 are Chairs, and 409 are non-executive directors. Just 36 companies in the FTSE 100 have women in executive director roles. Anna Anthony, EY UK&I Regional Managing Partner-elect and UK Financial Services Managing Partner, comments: “In all its guises, diversity is a key driver of business performance, and so increasing female representation on boards is not just a ‘nice-to-have’, it’s a ‘must-have’. Boardroom diversity targets are playing an important role in driving progress but can’t alone drive the scale of change needed." “Female representation in the most influential roles is a key pillar of true gender parity, and we need to see growth across both non-executive and executive directorships. Companies must do more to grow the pipeline, better support women to senior management and executive positions, and aim to go above and beyond minimum requirements.” Opportunity missed to build female CFO numbers As part of the 2024 report, Cranfield analysed the gender balance and experience of female CFOs across the FTSE 350 and identified ‘missed opportunities’ to increase the number of women in CFO positions over the last two years. There were 28 outgoing CFOs across the FTSE 250 over the past year, but just three women were appointed to these roles during the same period, taking the total number of female FTSE 250 CFOs to 23 (making up just 13% of all FTSE 250 CFOs). Similarly, there were 29 outgoing CFOs across the FTSE 100 since 2022, with just eight women appointed over the same period, taking the total number of female FTSE 100 CFOs to 24 (making up 24% of all FTSE 100 CFOs). Dr Michelle Tessaro, Visiting Professor at Cranfield School of Management who led the CFO research project, comments: “There is a major issue at play here, and we risk having too much optimism when we just look at the numbers. The most vulnerable part of the talent pipeline is the mid-career point, where some women drop off their planned career trajectories as policies are stacked against them and assumptions are made about their attitudes to work. This leaky pipeline needs fixing, and women need supporting, otherwise the executive gender paradox is unlikely to change.”

Pret A Manger is sharing joy across the UK with a celebration of the moments and people that defined 2024. Pret’s first ever Christmas window displays will bring stories of national joy to life at Carnaby Street (London), New Street (Birmingham) and Oxford Street (Manchester). Inspired by consumer research into 2024’s most joyful moments as voted by the British public, Pret’s windows pay tribute to three of the nation’s most unforgettable highlights this year. Research reveals that almost half (45%) believe they’ll look back on this year fondly as a time which brought them happiness - with 22% describing 2024 as their most joyful one to date. From the England Football Team’s victory in the Euro 2024 semifinals to Sir David Attenborough’s 70 years of dedication to wildlife on TV, and Keely Hodgkinson’s inspiring Gold in Paris, these joyous scenes have been transformed with a festive twist. Crafted from Pret’s signature seasonal menu by renowned Prop Maker and Sculpture Artist, Andy Billett, each display is a playful, heart-warming celebration of 2024’s highlights – from Mince Pies to Melvin the Snowman Gingerbread, these beloved menu items have become art as a quarter (25%) of people say they associate joy with their favourite foods. This has been a key year for joyful moments, as, on average, those polled have experienced 44 moments of joy so far this year – around four a month – and 30% expect to see an increase next year. But Pret isn’t just celebrating national moments of joy – it’s also highlighting local heroes who have shared joy in their local communities, too. At Pret shops on North Bridge, Edinburgh, and Paradise Street, Liverpool, festive window displays honour two inspiring individuals who have made a meaningful impact on their communities through charities supported by The Pret Foundation. In Liverpool, Elizabeth Fearon from Toxteth Women’s Centre has been bringing comfort and support to families in need for over seven years, delivering Pret’s food donations and helping families through challenging times. With her caring and selfless nature, Elizabeth embodies the spirit of giving, whether that be by teaching English, assisting with rehoming, or being a friend to all. Meanwhile, Shikha Ahuja from the Milan Senior Welfare Organisation brings joy to the elderly South Asian community in Edinburgh. With her Bollywood-inspired events, cooking clubs and digital literacy sessions, Shikha’s dedication lights up lives and strengthens connections, helping to combat loneliness and ensure older individuals within the community feel included. But Pret’s festive celebrations aren’t just about decoration – they’re part of a much larger mission to give back to communities. At all five of Pret’s Christmas window displays, passersby and customers can scan QR codes in the windows to learn more about the charitable work of The Pret Foundation. They can also donate to The Pret Foundation, which exists to make a difference to those affected by hunger, poverty, and homelessness. Additionally, for every Pret’s Christmas Lunch Sandwich and Very Merry Sandwich sold, 50p will be donated to The Pret Foundation. Last year, The Pret Foundation donated over 5 million food items to those in need and will continue to support communities across the UK, providing training and employment through its Rising Stars programme. Katherine Bagshawe, UK Food & Coffee Director, said: “At Pret, we believe that Christmas is about bringing people together, celebrating, and sharing joy. That’s why we’re thrilled to share some of the most incredible moments that helped define 2024, alongside stories of remarkable individuals who make a real difference in both their communities and the nation.” “We may be the home of the Christmas sandwich, but we want to do more than serve great food and coffee – we’re here to share joy and help those who need it most, which is fitting as 25% of the nation associate joy with their favourite foods." "Thanks to The Pret Foundation, we’re able to provide food, resources, and support to those affected by hunger, poverty and homelessness, not just at Christmas but year-round.” Pret invites everyone to visit its Carnaby Street (London), New Street (Birmingham), Oxford Street (Manchester), North Bridge (Edinburgh), and Paradise Street (Liverpool) shops to see these joyous displays and join in the spirit of giving. TOP 10 – 2024 MOMENTS OF JOY England men’s football team reaching the final of Euro 2024 David Attenborough celebrates 70 years of service as a conservationist and broadcaster Jude Bellingham’s overhead goal for England against Slovakia at Euro 2024 The announcement of the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special Keely Hodgkinson’s 800 meters gold at the Olympics for Team GB 16-year-old Luke Littler reaching the final of the 2024 PDC World Darts Championship Andy Murray's emotional retirement match at Wimbledon Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour Announcement of Oasis reforming The Coronation Street 65th anniversary special

The call came at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce annual dinner where First Minister John Swinney, Labour Leader Anas Sarwar MSP and Scottish Conservatives Leader Russell Findlay MSP were told businesses needed government to act urgently. Dr Liz Cameron CBE, SCC Chief Executive, said: “We stand at a pivotal moment for our economy. The economic headwinds and political turmoil are immensely challenging. and some sectors are at breaking point." “The message tonight is clear: collaboration and understanding between business and government are not just desirable—they are essential.” Stephen Leckie, SCC President, said: “Government policies are critical to creating the conditions for growth. Increasing energy costs, higher tax burdens and new government regulations is a lot for any business to manage and absorb." “We need a renewed focus on tax reform to incentivise innovation, a planning system that enables swift development, and support for key sectors like renewable energy, tourism, and manufacturing. Businesses need certainty, clarity, and collaboration.” First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney MSP, said: “A strong, successful, innovative and dynamic economy is vital to my Government’s aspirations. In preparation for the Budget, I have carefully listened to the business community across Scotland and heard their concerns, in particular around the UK Government’s decision to increase employers national insurance contributions." "Our focus on prioritising investment, removing obstacles to growth, and providing certainty and stability to business will help us build a more resilient Scottish economy and unlock our nation’s full economic potential.” Dr Cameron added: “In a highly competitive world we need a lower cost base, less bureaucracy and more government support from both Holyrood and Westminster." “Business needs targeted measures to ease the burden on businesses struggling with rising costs – including reform of the business rates system, targeted rates relief, and a serious rethink to the rise in employer national insurance contributions. “We don’t need one-off changes or quick fixes. We need a long-term plan that extends beyond election cycles to encourage investment and foster confidence. Governments must place consistent, coherent, and business-friendly policies at the heart of their agendas.” Stephen Leckie, SCC President, committed SCC’s continued support for Scotland’s overseas trade: “As we look ahead to the global environment now, we will double down on our efforts to ensure our prized exports including whisky are marketed globally and that tariffs do not threaten our most valued companies.”

One-in-four (24%) UK employees have taken time off work in the past 12 months due to stress, new research from Avilio has found. The productivity and performance coaching provider commissioned an independent, nationally representative survey of 1284 UK workers, 739 of whom are in management positions. It found that over a third (34%) of workers have experienced burnout in the past 12 months. Of those who are managers, 38% say they are stressed on a day-to-day basis in their professional lives. When managers were questioned about their employers’ response to employee wellbeing, 58% say their organisation has initiatives in place to monitor and improve employees’ wellbeing. A similar number (61%) believe that their organisation cares about their stress and emotional wellbeing.   This comes as nearly three-in-ten (28%) employees say they are likely to change jobs between now and the end of 2025.   Philippe Masson, CEO of Avilio, said: “Clearly, there’s a disconnect between the wellbeing initiatives in place and the actual needs of employees. Even though many feel their organisation cares about their stress and emotional wellbeing, rampantly high levels of stress and burnout suggest that current efforts are just not enough – it's time for employers to change that."  “True support should go beyond awareness and tick-box policies. It requires consistent, proactive, evidence-based solutions that effectively reduce stress and foster a healthier workplace. Such a significant proportion of workers taking time off consistently has clear financial implications for businesses and without robust solutions in place, they will continue paying the price. In addition, they risk losing out on top talent – and with so many looking to leave their jobs, it's clear that retention should be a top priority." “Greater levels of support to reduce stress and burnout would strengthen both employee wellbeing and staff retention rates. After all, a healthy and well-functioning workforce cannot be built on good intentions alone, but instead forged through meaningful policies that truly meet employees’ needs.”