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Manufacturers are set to see a surge in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning as they push for greater automation and improvements in productivity, efficiency and quality according to a new survey published today by Make UK and Infor. The survey, published ahead of the Summit on AI at Bletchley Park shows that companies are increasing their investment in automation across a broad range of technologies and functions from manufacturing processes to product design and development. These investments are set to accelerate in the next two years with greater automation leading to an increase in higher levels of skills and more than a quarter of companies (28%) saying they will have less need for lower skilled roles. Key Findings: More than half of companies investing in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Augmented Reality. Almost two in five companies planning to adopt generative AI. More than three quarters of companies have invested, or planning to invest, in automation. But majority of companies believe UK failing to match competitors. Barriers to automation remain including technical skills, cost and workplace culture. However, despite this positive picture the majority of manufacturers believe the UK is failing to keep up with competitors, while significant barriers to further automation remain in the shape of a lack of technical skills, data integration and workplace culture. In response, Make UK is urging the Government to roll out the successful Made Smarter scheme nationwide to help SMEs adopt digital technologies, as well as work with companies to address the continued shortfall of technical skills in the workforce and reform of the Apprentice Levy. Commenting, Verity Davidge, Director of Policy at Make UK, said: “The adoption of AI, automation and other game changing technologies by manufacturers is rapidly accelerating and will provide vital pieces in solving the productivity puzzle." "But, there is still more to be done to match our competitors, especially among SMEs who face far greater hurdles in adopting digital technology." "As well as tackling the digital skills barrier which remains the biggest hurdle, Government should roll out the Made Smarter scheme across the UK. This has a proven success in delivering step change for SMEs on their automation journey.” Andrew Kinder, SVP, Industry Strategy, Infor added: “We are seeing a substantial shift in the adoption of digital automation as manufacturers seek to improve efficiency, instil agility and drive greater productivity." While generative AI is still in its relative infancy, intent to capitalise on it is incredibly encouraging with many companies saying they are ‘aware of and planning to use’ the technology." “Actions, however, speak louder than words. While the government clearly has a role to play in supporting AI adoption, manufacturers have an opportunity to take control in bridging the gap between intent and value in creating first-mover advantage. The technologies are now widely available, affordable and come with a typically fast return on investment, which all help manufacturers compete in increasingly challenging conditions.” According to the survey, more than half of companies (55%) have already implemented or, are planning to implement, AI and Machine Learning to automate decision making processes and improve operational efficiency. In addition, four fifths of companies have already introduced or, are planning to introduce, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality techniques in areas such as design and prototyping. This is part of a wider push by companies to investment in automation with more than three quarters of companies (76%) having already done so while almost six in ten companies (59%) plan to increase their expenditure compared to the previous twelve months. Furthermore, one in five companies plan to automate between a quarter and half of their processes in the next two years while a quarter plan to automate between 10% and a quarter of their processes. These investments are largely in improving manufacturing processes (65% of companies) and product design & development (49% of companies). And companies are seeing significant benefits as a result in improving productivity (60%) improved labour efficiency (49%) and a similar number seeing improved quality. However, despite this positive picture and increased investment plans significant barriers to the adoption of automation remain in the form of a lack of technical skills by almost half of companies (46%) integration and data challenges (41%). More than a third of companies are also citing high costs and workplace culture (38% and 36% respectively) as barriers. In addition, the survey shows a clear mismatch between policy incentives designed to boost investment and the expected return on investment (ROI) for companies. More than eight in ten companies expect up to five years for a positive impact of investment. In contrast, more than half of companies (56.4%) believe Government investment policy is not sensitive to the time to see a ROI. To help address these barriers and boost further automation Make UK has made the following recommendations: Roll out the successful Made Smarter scheme nationwide. This is a proven scheme to help with the adoption of new technology in manufacturing businesses. It should also extend the remit of Made Smarter to include industrial decarbonisation to aid energy efficiency and transition to net zero. Make full expensing capital allowances permanent to enable businesses to plan investment over long leads. Expand the R&D tax credit to include capital expenditure to spur further digitalised R&D. Government should work with business organisations and sector specific bodies to help SME engagement with the successful Catapult Centres. This is especially important given the geographic distribution of the centres and would help more SMEs take advantage of their world leading facilities. The survey of 135 companies was conducted between 21 June and 12 July, 2023.

Fifth-generation family-owned Yorkshire bedmaker, Harrison Spinks , has joined the Wild Ingleborough programme to help restore and maintain nature across the region. As part of the long-term commitment, the Leeds-based luxury bedmaker, will focus its substantial five-figure investment on high-quality climate work, which includes natural regeneration and restoration of land around the Yorkshire landscape, the recovery of rare and endangered plant species, increasing employment in wildlife conservation, and supporting local farmers to promote environmentally positive production. The collaboration comes off the back of a recent shift in Harrison Spinks’ commitment to carbon restoration, from previously paying to offset carbon use overseas, to now redirecting its contribution into premium climate initiatives to ensure substantial, long-term changes are taking place across the region. Wild Ingleborough is a multi-partner, landscape-scale conservation project working with the local community to bring about nature’s recovery in parts of North Yorkshire and within the Yorkshire Dales. The partnership is a long-term commitment to address climate change between Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, WWF, Natural England, University of Leeds, United Bank of Carbon, and The Woodland Trust, which will help to address the ecological and climate crisis. Dr Louise Ellis-Jones, Sustainability Non-Executive Director at Harrison Spinks, said: “Developing this working relationship has and will be extremely rewarding for everyone involved; creating innovative, high-quality solutions with real impact is at the heart of the work, and is what attracted us to the exceptional work being planned by the team." “Wild Ingleborough is a fantastic initiative which aligns to our ethos and values as a family business rooted in Yorkshire that has always strived to play an active role within the wider community and our natural environment. We are very excited to be part of such a progressive and groundbreaking project which will drive forward our understanding and response to both nature restoration and climate impact." “What we are focused on is shifting the agenda forward to put emphasis on measurable action and finding long-term alternatives to more ‘traditional’ carbon offsetting to create a positive outcome here in this country.” The Wild Ingleborough programme engages the local community and work closely with regional businesses to grow their offering of sustainable wildlife tourism opportunities within the area, as well as support local producers to promote their products with environmental benefits. Dr Tim Thom, Wild Ingleborough Manager at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust added; “Our Wild Ingleborough programme is restoring and rejuvenating the stunning landscape around one of Yorkshire’s famous three peaks and surrounding Dales. We are absolutely delighted that Harrison Spinks, a respected and established Yorkshire business, has recognised our shared values and given their support and invested generously in our work.” Photo Credit: Liz Shaw

Farming in the United Kingdom has come a long way from its traditional roots and continues to evolve. Today, UK farmers are pioneering in their approach to farming practices, recognising that they are operating in a changing world and that they need to adapt the way that they do what they do. Farmers across the UK are embracing sustainable practices and leveraging cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of this rapidly changing world. This feature explores the state of farming in the UK in the present day, highlighting the key trends and innovations that define the industry. One of the most significant shifts in UK farming is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Farmers are increasingly adopting practices that reduce their environmental impact, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and agroforestry. The use of pesticides and synthetic fertilisers is decreasing in favour of more environmentally friendly alternatives and where possible care is being taken to look after the natural habitat to help conserve nature too. The adoption of precision agriculture technologies is also revolutionising the way UK farmers manage their land. GPS-guided tractors and drones are helping optimise planting, irrigation, and harvesting, increasing efficiency and reducing resource waste. These advancements allow farmers to make data-driven decisions about their operations and highlight the way that farming and the farmers in charge are having to continue to develop and learn new skills too. Many UK farmers are diversifying their operations to secure additional sources of income. This includes agritourism, farm shops, and renewable energy projects like wind turbines and solar panels. These ventures not only boost revenue but also create opportunities for rural communities. Members of the farming community throughout the UK are also adopting proactive measures to adapt to the changing climate. They are investing in infrastructure improvements and drought-resistant crop varieties to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, ensuring a more reliable food supply for the nation. Farmers are also adapting to the changing desires of the end consumer and in recent years we have seen consumers increasingly seeking locally sourced and sustainably produced food. UK farmers are responding by marketing their products directly to consumers through farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programmes, and online platforms. This strengthens the connection between producers and consumers while reducing food miles too. We have also seen a growth in the farm-to-table movement which is continuing to gain momentum in the UK. More restaurants and food establishments are sourcing their ingredients directly from local farms, promoting transparency in the food supply chain and supporting local agriculture. When it comes to the future and the next generation of farmers there appears to be a growing interest among young people in pursuing careers in agriculture. Many organizations and educational institutions are offering training and support to the next generation of farmers, ensuring the continuity of the UK's agricultural heritage, but there is also recognition that the farmers of tomorrow will require a much more diverse set of skills that their predecessors as technological developments change the very way that farmers of the future will do what they do too. Government schemes and initiatives are encouraging farmers to participate in environmental stewardship programmes. These programs provide financial incentives for practices that promote biodiversity, habitat conservation, and soil health, placing additional responsibilities on the shoulders of farmers who are already working hard to feed the nation. Farming in the UK is evolving to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Sustainability, technology, and diversification are key drivers of change in the industry, while a growing focus on local, sustainable, and transparent food production is reshaping the way the nation sources its food. As UK farmers continue to adapt and innovate, they are poised to play a crucial role in addressing global challenges, from food security to climate change and the sector continues to change, pioneering technological approaches to food production and land management which is providing plenty of new roles within the sector and driving more change too.

Whilst for some, working from home may not be quite to their liking, for others working from home offers a number of benefits such as an improved work-life balance, to saving cash on the daily commute and other associated workplace costs. Experts at instantprint asked AI art tool, Midjourney to visualise the nation’s dream office space based on the survey choices of 2,000 UK workers. The survey revealed that: Topping the list of dream office design features for the nation’s workforce were sofas or a comfortable seating area (35%). Additionally, better food and drink facilities could be the way to get people back into the office, according to the findings. Dog-friendly offices trump child-friendly options when it comes to UK employees dream office space. Almost all UK workers (98%) said they’d not want to work in an office with a lack of windows or natural light. Industrial (3%) and ‘dark academic’ interior styles (3%) were also unpopular. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, many people have chosen not to return to the office, but could a more appealing workspace tempt people back in? Well, according to a recent study , more than half of UK workers (55%) said they’d be more inclined to head into the office if the design and workplace facilities were more to their taste. Just fifteen percent said that the décor and general facilities on offer would not be enough to entice them to go into the office more, whilst a third would still prefer a flexible or hybrid approach to working life. After polling 2,000 UK based hybrid workers, online printing specialists, instantprint have discovered the facilities and design aspects that are the most desired in a workplace, as well as those that Brits would be happy to do without. Taking their findings, instantprint then used AI image tool, Midjourney, to visualise how the nation’s dream office space would look aesthetically. In contrast, instantprint also asked the AI tool to create visuals of how the UK’s least favourite office space might look. Topping the list of design features for the nation’s workforce were: Sofa or comfy seating area (35%) Plants (27%) Dog friendly elements (21%) An indoor pond or water feature (19%) Quiet reading area (18%) Beer or Prosecco taps (18%) Lots of artwork on the walls (17%) Comfy area for napping (16%) Access to rooftop - seats & tables (16%) Floor to ceiling windows (16%) The least favoured design aspects for the nation's workforce were: No windows - artificial light (2%) Metallic / industrial decor (3%) Dark / moody decor (3%) Mini basketball courts (5%) Ball pool (6%) Ring lights (6%) Brightly coloured decor (6%) Hammocks (7%) Artificial grass (7%) Faux-flower walls (7%) When it came to workplace facilities, more than a third (34%) voted free fruit as this their most desired choice at work. In fact, seven of the top ten most desirable facilities in a working office related to food and drink, with coffee machines (33%), free biscuits or snacks (31%), a fridge (31%), a kettle (29%), a water cooler (28%), and a microwave (26%) all high on the list of dream workplace facilities. Facilities related to exercise were much lower on the list of desirables though, with exercise bike desks (17%), under desk treadmills (15%) and an onsite gym (13%) all securing less than a fifth of the votes, respectively. With more than 10.2 million dog owners (34% of UK households own a dog) in the UK in 2022, according to research, it goes without saying that Brits are a nation of dog lovers. Perhaps it’s also no surprise then that one in five (21%) said a dog friendly office was high on their list of priorities. In comparison, the opportunity to have onsite child-minding services was not found to be an appealing benefit of working in an office, according to 95% of those surveyed. This was the case for more than double the number of women (7%) than it was for men (3%) and was found to be most important for those aged between 25 – 34 (14%). Despite an ever-growing focus on being kinder to the environment, a paperless office (i.e., an office with no printer) was not deemed a desirable office feature with 96% of Brits not selecting this as a top feature. That said, recycling features were important for one in six (15%) employees. Laura Mucklow, Head of instantprint, commented on the findings adding that "We found it fascinating to see the difference in opinions when it comes to the nation’s dream workplace. Equally, it’s really interesting to learn that décor and facilities can be such a big draw for so many UK employees in heading back to the office – especially when it comes to food and drink!" “With an abundance of natural light, plenty of plants, woody aesthetics, and not forgetting the addition of a cute dog, the AI visuals of the nation’s dream office space is certainly somewhere we’d be happy to work from." “That said, whilst the aesthetic of the least favourite office set up is much moodier with less natural features, we think the office space still has a certain appeal.”

In a world where every meal can be a work of art, food photography has emerged as an innovative form of visual storytelling. It is more than just snapping pictures of beautifully arranged dishes – it’s an art form that celebrates the aesthetics of gastronomy. Food photography turns a plate of food into a vibrant canvas of colours, textures, and flavours. World Food Day falls on Monday 16th of October this year and is a perfect time to celebrate the connection between food and photography. To honour the occasion, leading camera equipment insurer photoGuard shares few tips on how to succeed in the food photography industry. “Food photography is an art of making the viewer not just see the food but taste it, smell it, and feel its essence through the power of a single image” says James Whitten, the Marketing Manager at photoGuard. How to get started with food photography One of the best ways to learn more about food photography is to follow some of the most influential online photographers on social media. Discover hundreds of hints and tips on the sort of images that create the most interest and ways to appropriately tag pictures. 3 essential tips for food photographs: Getting The Right Lighting The most important factor to bear in mind when setting up any photo shoot is the light intensity and the way it impacts on the displayed food. Ideally, photographers should aim to take photos using natural light, and should only use flash or any overhead lighting when necessary. Choosing The Right Angles The optimal approach to choosing the right light source involves examining the food from various perspectives. If the most suitable light source happens to be in the bedroom or living area, the scene can be set up there accordingly. Capturing multiple images from different angles is essential, to grasp all the tricks of food display and identify what appeals most to viewers. For instance, taking shots from above and at 45-degree angles provides diverse perspectives. It is important to review all the photos at the end of the shoot and choose the most suitable ones. Minimalistic Approach When staging an image, it’s vital to minimise background clutter. Keeping in mind that the focus should always be on the food, as any additional elements are likely to cause distractions. “Whether you are thinking of making a career out of food photography or just like to capture shots of food as a hobby, it is important to insure your camera and equipment too,” concludes Whitten.

Millions of Brits wrongly believe that all cows live free range - when 20 per cent actually spend their entire lives in sheds. A poll of 2,000 adults found only three in 10 are aware of the zero-grazing practice - where the dairy cow is never allowed to roam free, being kept in a shed for its entire life. But campaigners claim this affects up to a fifth of UK dairy cows. After being made aware of the farming technique, 69 per cent of consumers opposed it on ethical grounds. And 49 per cent said they would be unlikely to buy any dairy products that were a result of this indoor process. While 56 per cent went as far as to say it should be banned completely – as 87 per cent believe cows deserve a nice life. The research was commissioned by Viva! , whose spokesperson said: “Ignorance about the UK dairy industry is widespread and profound. It’s not accidental that consumers are ignorant of zero grazing and other cruelties in the dairy industry. It is purposely camouflaged by constant images of a non-existent rural idyll." “Zero grazing is sweeping across the world and already one-in-five UK dairy cows are victims, despite overwhelming scientific and public opposition.” Busting Milk Myths The research also found just 41 per cent of adults were aware cows have to be made pregnant and give birth to a calf before they can give milk. And only 27 per cent knew all calves are grabbed from their mothers at birth and either killed or locked away in isolation. Once aware of the facts, 24 per cent claimed they were prepared to change their habits to become more vegan – with 25-34-year-olds most likely to do so (45 per cent). The thought of animals being poorly treated (58 per cent) and the environmental impacts of the meat and dairy industry (56 per cent) were the main drivers of this change. Of those willing to change their habits, 53 per cent would try plant milks instead of dairy milk, and 48 per cent would attempt to reduce their consumption of cheese. Although both of these top the list of things considered hardest to cut out of their diet, alongside chicken and butter, according to the research carried out via OnePoll. In fact, almost one in 10 (nine per cent) consider themselves a ‘flexidairian’ – a term coined by Viva! to describe someone that wants to cut out dairy but finds it hard to. The spokesperson added: “There is a clear lack of knowledge when it comes to how cows are treated, as it is often glossed over. But it’s encouraging to see people are willing to change their diets and cut back on dairy foods as a result of the inhumane processes used in farming.”

The travel industry is one of the largest contributors to waste globally, with the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) estimating that around 1.3 billion tonnes of waste is produced by tourists alone. With the global industry forecast to hit a staggering estimate of around £770 billion in revenue, an emphasis needs to be placed on businesses to reduce the amount of waste produced to prevent long-lasting damage to the environment. Scott Hawthorne, Founding Director at Skips & Bins , a leading supplier of 240L wheelie bins, has provided some advice on how best to reduce the waste your company may generate. Even the smallest changes could contribute to improving waste production within the industry. Investing in recyclable materials and packaging There is a direct correlation between the amount of plastic packaging used in the tourism industry and environmental damage. This can be seen through statistics from the UN finding that with 80% of tourists visiting coastal locations, eight million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year. Every business involved in the travel industry has a responsibility to reduce the packaging waste that is produced, as it extends from airlines and hotels to restaurants and tour operators. It’s not just packaging either, but things like plastic cutlery and single-use water bottles are also a massive concern for sustainability, with the UK government including it in its one-use plastic ban. Reusable options for things like utensils and packaging have taken considerable steps in recent years with a focus on being more eco-conscious. These are made using easily recyclable or biodegradable materials like wood, making a huge difference when disposed of. Travel agents and advisors could also encourage tourists to bring reusable water bottles on their trip to curb the need for single-use plastics. Minimising Food Waste Food waste is a huge focus across various sectors, as it’s estimated that one-third of all food produced globally ends up being thrown away. Travel and tourism contributes significantly to the food waste produced, with around 40% of wasted food coming from the industry alone. One way that business owners can minimise the amount of food that goes to waste is by taking stock of how much waste is generated on average and building out a strategy to better manage food production for efficiency. This could be done by analysing your portion sizes, storing your food to prevent expiration, and planning your menu to optimise the available ingredients. Another option is to work with local communities and charities to put any extra food that may be going to waste to good use. Giving back to those in need doesn’t just help your business’ image; you could help feed those in need of a good meal and do your part to help the neighbourhood. Energy And Water – Two Major Sustainability Concerns The cost of utilities is a major global concern, with prices rising around the world both from a domestic and commercial perspective. Energy and water are two utilities that the travel industry sees large amounts of waste produced, and with costs being at an all-time high, it’s important to save as much as possible. Reducing energy consumption is something that many businesses can aim to accomplish through simple replacements and changes to existing practices. Many appliances can be easily swapped with energy-saving versions that require less power input to run, LED lighting rather than standard bulbs, and smart HVAC systems. There are more long-term and expensive solutions, such as installing solar panels that can be as efficient as traditional grid energy. Hotels, resorts, and other accommodations can take on water-saving measures. Low-flow showerheads and toilets can be installed in rooms and at other washroom facilities around your location, and they can reduce water consumption by up to 50%. You can also include promotional information encouraging water-saving measures so visitors can carry these practices into their everyday lives.

ICAEW has today announced that Alan Vallance has been appointed as its new Chief Executive. Alan is expected to take up the role in Spring 2024. He will succeed Michael Izza, who has been Chief Executive of the Institute since 2006. Michael announced in March his intention to retire from ICAEW by the end of this year, but he has agreed to stay in post until Alan joins the Institute, to ensure a smooth transition. Alan, an ICAEW Chartered Accountant, is currently Chief Executive of the Chartered Insurance Institute. His previous roles have included Chief Executive of the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Group Chief Operating Officer at the Law Society. Mark Rhys, ICAEW President and chair of the recruitment panel, said: “I’m delighted to announce Alan’s appointment as ICAEW Chief Executive after an open and extensive recruitment process. It attracted a strong field of candidates and Alan was the outstanding choice to take up the role as Chief Executive." “He has a track record of leading successful membership organisations and working alongside different stakeholders. We were impressed with his vision for the Institute and for the evolution of the profession, his focus on values and the role ICAEW can continue to play as it looks to its 150th anniversary in 2030." “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Michael for his leadership of the Institute and tremendous contribution to the wider profession. The changes he has led to ICAEW’s strategy and structure since he became Chief Executive in 2006 leave us well placed for future success. I am grateful for his commitment to the organisation and wish him well for the future.” Peter Wyman, Chair of the ICAEW Board, added: “I am greatly looking forward to working with Alan in the coming years as we address together the challenges and opportunities facing our Institute in a fast-changing world.” “I would also like to pay my own tribute to Michael for the quite extraordinary contribution he has made to ICAEW and the accountancy profession during his long and distinguished tenure as Chief Executive." Alan Vallance said: “I am delighted to be joining ICAEW. As a chartered accountant it is a genuine honour to have been asked to lead the organisation of which I am a member and to succeed Michael Izza as Chief Executive. I thank Michael for his leadership and the amazing contribution he has made to the Institute, and I look forward to working with the ICAEW Council, Board and staff team as we build on the very solid foundations Michael has laid down over the last 17 years." “The accountancy profession today plays a vitally important leadership role on the key issues facing society. I am determined to make sure that ICAEW leads from the front and that this role continues, indeed evolves in the future, with an unwavering focus on the public interest so that our members play their rightful part in building a world of sustainable economies.” Michael Izza, ICAEW Chief Executive, said: “It has been a huge privilege to lead ICAEW through the last 17 years of accelerating change in business, the economy and society, and to see the Institute grow and strengthen. Our touchstone has always been the public interest, and I passionately believe in the accountancy profession as a force for good in national life and the wider world. I am therefore delighted that Alan has been appointed as my successor and I know that the vision and the energy he brings to this role will ensure that ICAEW does not rest on its laurels.”

The number of employees voicing wellbeing concerns is on the rise, but a significant number of organisations and managers are ill-prepared to address them, according to new research from Mintago . Key Findings: 87% of managers have been approached by an employee in the past 12 months to discuss concerns relating to their wellbeing Mental health (48%), job satisfaction (43%) and financial wellbeing (40%) the most common issues raised Just 33% say their organisation has a clear process in place for handling concerns 47% of managers uncomfortable discussing financial wellbeing issues The fintech startup surveyed 503 senior managers within UK-based organisations (public and private sector). This revealed that an overwhelming majority (87%) have been approached by an employee in the past 12 months to discuss concerns relating to their wellbeing. Following mental health (48%) and job satisfaction (43%), financial wellbeing (40%) emerged as the third most prevalent concern that employees spoke to their managers about. Of those who had discussed financial wellbeing issues with employees, 68% of managers cited the cost-of-living crisis (68%) as the predominant source of concern. This was followed by requests for a pay rise (50%), keeping up with rental or mortgage payments (46%) and worries about debt (43%). Despite financial wellbeing issues being so common, Mintago’s research found that a third (33%) of organisations do not have a clear process in place for handling employees’ wellbeing concerns. Furthermore, almost half (47%) of managers say that, on a personal level, they are uncomfortable handling their colleague's financial wellbeing concerns. Chieu Cao, CEO of Mintago, said: “We should not be surprised to see financial wellbeing concerns on the rise – the cost-of-living crisis has been an assault on people’s finances, and money worries are naturally very common. Yet these findings act as a stark wake-up call regarding the dearth of support structures within many workplaces, and it's crucial that organisations of all sizes and sectors take note." “Almost nine in ten managers across the UK have had an employee come to them with wellbeing issues, with financial wellbeing one of the most common. However, a lack of support structures and meaningful solutions are harming both managers and their staff, and this must be addressed." “Ignoring or downplaying these concerns – no matter how uncomfortable they may be to talk about – risks not only the health and happiness of employees, but also the overall productivity and success of an organisation in the long run. It’s time for leaders to build a culture that allows their workforce to raise concerns with confidence, and then back this up with robust tools that deliver support in the areas employees most need it.”

Frozen food distributor Central Foods is helping to ensure that theatre-goers in Northampton have a comfortable experience by supporting Derngate’s 40th Anniversary seat refurbishment campaign. Central Foods sponsored the local theatre and entertainment venue earlier this year as part of its support for the community. Now the company is investing a further £500 by funding the refurbishment of five seats in the main auditorium of the Derngate theatre at the multi-award winning arts and entertainment venue. Managing director of Central Foods, Gordon Lauder, said: “We were delighted to become a Business Club member at Royal & Derngate earlier this year. It’s a very important arts and entertainment facility for Northampton and the surrounding area." “Now the team at Central Foods is very pleased to further support Royal & Derngate by helping with its seat refurbishment programme which is improving the customer experience at the venue.” Chris Smith, Development Manager at Royal & Derngate, added: “As a funded Arts organisation, we are very reliant on the generosity of our local business partnerships. As one of the region’s leading entertainment centres we are keen to ensure we continue to inspire theatre goers for the next 40 years and we are grateful to the team at Central Foods who also share our ambition.” Central Foods, based at Collingtree near Northampton, is one of the UK’s leading frozen food distributors. The company was founded more than 25 years ago and is a catering partner across the whole food service sector, supplying to hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres, leisure outlets and more. It currently sells to over 180 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers. Royal & Derngate is an independent registered charity, based in Guildhall Road, Northampton. It features the Grade II listed Royal Theatre which opened in 1884, plus The Derngate, which is an adaptable multi-purpose entertainment space founded 100 years later in the 1980s. For more information about Central Foods visit www.centralfoods.co.uk

The very first awnings to exist were traditionally used on elaborate glass shop frontages in the 1800s as a way to passively cool the interior of buildings, whilst also protecting goods from the damaging effects of the sun. Today, awnings are growing in popularity because not only do they offer additional privacy – particularly in built-up areas – but they can transform any garden into a comfortable, stylish and functional outdoor living space. We spoke to Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds (UK) Ltd to gain an understanding of five ways that patio awnings can enhance outdoor living. Creating Outdoor Comfort Regardless of the time of year, the sun constantly emits a source of energy known as ultraviolet (UV) radiation that is damaging to our skin. Although you can’t physically see or feel UV rays, the temperature outside isn’t always a true reflection of whether you are at risk of burning – you can still burn on cool or cloudy days. Inadequate sun protection can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer; however, the installation of an awning provides essential shade from sunlight (heat and glare/bright light) and can keep your skin protected from sun exposure (typically 97.5% minimum UV block) when the sun’s UV’s rays are the strongest, allowing you to use your outdoor space sensibly, even during the hottest months. Expanding Entertainment Areas A well-positioned patio awning can act as an extension of the roof of your property, creating an additional shaded entertainment area that’s ideal for hosting family BBQs and gatherings. When choosing the size of your awning, you will need to consider a number of factors. If the space will be used primarily for outdoor dining, a projection of 2.5m is adequate for a small dining table, however, for a larger family or for those who like to entertain, a minimum projection of 3m is required. Year-Round Enjoyment Essentially a fabric canopy that attaches to the side of a building and extends and retracts using spring tensioned folding arms which keep the fabric taut at every position, retractable awnings are considered to be more versatile than other shading systems including gazebos and parasols. In addition to the adequate shelter, privacy and instant style they add to any property, awnings also provide a much-needed cooling effect to the indoor room adjacent to where they are positioned, ensuring a comfortable living space (both inside and out) during the summer and winter months, whilst filtering UV rays to stop furniture from fading. Stylish Outdoor Living Awnings are continuing to rise in popularity as more homeowners are seeking quality products that allow them to utilise their garden by helping to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Suited to both classic and contemporary properties, awnings add a striking new dimension to any façade and can be customised using a number of different materials and colours to match any style. Finishing touches such as LED lighting and infra-red heating can contribute towards the aesthetic appeal of any outdoor space whilst helping to create a warm and pleasant environment, all year round. Smart Integration Premium and modern awnings are motorised (using a remote control) – or even app controlled on your smartphone. A motorised awning that can be adjusted at just the touch of a button is the ideal solution for those who love to ‘live life outdoors’, with optional weather (wind/sun) sensors allowing for automatic hands free positioning and operation. A professional and expert installation is just as important as the quality of the awning itself. Bespoke awnings are made to measure to suit the property in which they are being installed and the installation process can take anything from a few hours to a full day. As Stuart explains: “Not only do awnings offer an abundance of benefits when socialising, entertaining and relaxing outdoors, but they are a quick, easy and affordable way to help create a comfortable, sustainable home with lower running and maintenance costs." "If it’s sunny, a retractable awning will work perfectly as a barrier against harmful UV rays, and if it’s raining, it will provide adequate shelter – at the touch of a button – making any outdoor space comfortable, all year round." "Our luxury awnings are both practical and stylish and can be designed and built to each client’s exact requirements. Essential for a healthy living environment, this particular shading solution has the ability to enhance the overall outdoor living experience for any homeowner.” Find out more by visiting their website here

Smart Pension, one of the UK’s leading workplace pension providers, and Mercer, the global consulting and investments leader and a business of Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC), today launch a new pension solution to meet the accelerating demand for modern retirement technology amongst the UK’s 5.5 million small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs). The new offering, Mercer Smart Pension, brings the Smart Pension Master Trust, underpinned by Smart Pension’s award-winning digital-first technology platform Keystone, together with Mercer’s market-leading investment capabilities, governance support and retirement services. For many UK businesses and their employees, size, affordability and access to technology are significant barriers when it comes to pension provision and related employee benefits. Mercer Smart Pension can assist employers who seek to enhance the financial security, long-term planning and personal wellbeing for a wide range of UK workers. It levels the playing field, offering the same benefits that employees in larger companies enjoy, as well as the first-class technology they would expect from an ecommerce app or digital bank. “Speaking to small and mid-sized businesses and their employees, we heard frustration from many clients who were not positioned to benefit from the tools, support and investment research larger employers can access,” said Phil Parkinson, Head of Wealth and Investments at Mercer. “Knowing Smart Pension’s digital and fintech credentials, we recognised an opportunity to bridge this crucial gap. Mercer has combined the strength of its global investment research, experience in delivering global DC products and consulting, with a fintech solution from Smart Pension to provide a low-cost, feature-rich pension and benefits platform for a largely overlooked section of the UK economy.” Jamie Fiveash, CEO of Smart UK, said, “This is a game-changer for pension provision in the UK. Combining Mercer’s unrivalled reputation for client focus and solutions with Smart’s industry-leading technology and customer experience will deliver a very exciting prospect for SMEs." “Our aim is to reshape how employers and employees think about retirement planning. By combining our expertise with Mercer, we are democratising financial wellbeing and setting a new standard for the industry.” Smart Pension and Mercer are closely aligned in their aim to open up the full potential of digital retirement technology, and both are signatories to the Mansion House Compact announced in July 2023 by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt. The two companies aim to ensure that the accelerating demand for modern retirement technology amongst employers is met.