Duckhams, the original British motor oil since 1899, is pleased to welcome Mike Bewsey as its new CEO. With many years of experience managing multi-national lubricant brands, Mike has been appointed to lead the company through its next stage of global operations. As Duckhams enters its 125th year, Mike will direct the iconic engine oil brand during a pivotal period in its development. "Duckhams is a great brand with a rich heritage, well-loved by mechanics and motorists," Mike said. "Since its successful relaunch in 2018, Duckhams has received strong support from distributors and partners across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The brand is now available in twenty-seven countries, having doubled its global network over the past twelve months. The 125th anniversary is an incredible milestone, giving us a fantastic platform to celebrate everything Duckhams has achieved in 125 years of winning with drivers, workshops and distributors. It is an exciting time to be joining the Duckhams family." Mike began his automotive career at Unipart before becoming Sales & Marketing Director at Comma Oil and Business Unit Director at Moove Europe. Keen to support the broader lubricants industry, Mike served as Chairman of the UK lubricants organisation, the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS), from 2021 to 2023. He is currently President of the United Kingdom Lubricants Association (UKLA), leading their work to represent the lubricants industry in the UK and abroad, actively engaging with other trade associations and the UK and European Governments on matters impacting the lubricants industry. Duckhams has a long history dating back to 1899 when Alexander Duckham first established his own oil company. His entrepreneurial, pioneering spirit has been at the company's heart since then. Duckhams was responsible for the development of revolutionary new process oils that controlled the build-up of carbon deposits in the 1920s and launched the first synchromesh gear oil in the 1930s. In 1951, Duckhams introduced Europe's first multigrade oil, an innovation which transformed lubrication technology forever. Mike's appointment comes after Rajat Moitra joined the business as Global Chief Marketing Officer, and Chris Clarkson became Global Technical and Procurement Officer at the end of 2023. These senior-level engagements have created a new leadership team with decades of experience leading multi-national lubricants brands. With a motorsports legacy spanning over fifty years, Duckhams has sponsored winners in motorcycle racing, Formula 1, Formula 3, Formula Ford and the Porsche Carrera Cup. Duckhams-sponsored Jackie Ickx won the F1 Race of Champions at Brands Hatch in 1974, and in 1975, James Hunt won the Dutch Grand Prix in a Surtees. In 1981, Ari Vatanen became the World Rally Champion. Duckhams' involvement with the Porsche Carrera GB Cup began in 2021 with a first victory by Duckhams driver Dan Cammish, followed by Adam Smalley's victory in 2023. Duckhams are also OR BRIC Superbike 2023 champions in Thailand, solidifying their motorsports legacy. Duckhams delivers high-performance engine oils formulated to keep engines of all ages moving. Their passenger and commercial vehicle lubricants are available in twenty-seven countries across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, has announced the successful completion of its strategic acquisition of Circle Health Group, the UK’s largest independent operators of hospitals, marking a significant milestone in the company's global expansion strategy. The completion of this deal, which has achieved regulatory approvals in record time, signifies PureHealth’s exceptional operational capabilities and commitment to international growth. The completion of this transaction further strengthens PureHealth’s commitment to becoming a leading global player in healthcare. With a vision aligned with the UAE leadership to promote wellbeing and enhance healthcare services, PureHealth is dedicated to continuously improving patient experience and adopting the most advanced clinical practices. The company’s expansion into the UK healthcare market reflects its focus on advancing the science of longevity and unlocking time for humanity. Hamad Al Hammadi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of PureHealth, said: “We are pleased to complete the acquisition of Circle in record time. This remarkable achievement epitomises PureHealth's operational excellence and strategic adaptability in broadening its international impact. After investing in Ardent Health USA, this is PureHealth’s second international acquisition and we look forward to building our portfolio internationally.” Farhan Malik, Managing Director of PureHealth, commented: “Completing the acquisition of Circle is a strategic leap forward for PureHealth. This acquisition is more than an expansion; it's a significant stride towards establishing PureHealth as a global healthcare platform. We are not just investing in the future of healthcare; we are shaping it to be more connected, innovative, and accessible on a global scale. This move aligns with our vision of pioneering a healthier future for all and underscores our commitment to elevating the global position of Abu Dhabi in the healthcare sector and revolutionising healthcare services globally. We look forward to fostering long term partnerships within the UK’s healthcare ecosystem.” Valued at c.USD 1.2 billion before debt, this acquisition marks a significant investment in the future of healthcare, positioning PureHealth at the forefront of international healthcare innovation and service provision. Building upon this significant momentum, PureHealth is advancing its expansion strategy in 2024. This strategic vision includes not only acquisitions in locally, but also international markets building a global healthcare platform. As PureHealth moves forward with its strategic global expansion, it remains committed to its mission of delivering unrivalled healthcare experiences through innovation, technology-driven solutions, and collaboration. This transaction not only enhances PureHealth's services and presence in the international healthcare landscape but also solidifies the company’s position as a leader in the healthcare industry, dedicated to improving lives and fostering healthier communities worldwide, and taking PureHealth from Abu Dhabi to the World.

The University of Glasgow has planted 20,000 trees across 11 hectares at Cochno Farm and Research Centre, in the north-west of the city, as part of its ongoing efforts to be a leading institution in sustainability. The new forest will enhance biodiversity at the farm and surrounding area. The planting of the forest is a step towards the University’s ongoing mission to be a world-leading institution on sustainability. Among the 20,000 trees planted are various natives species, including Scotch Pine, Silver Birch, Downy Birch, Rowan, English Oak, Sessile Oak, Hawthorn, Black Alder, and Goat Willow. Dr David Duncan, University Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, said: “Cochno Farm is the University’s centre for veterinary teaching and research and is increasingly vital for our work on environmental sustainability." “Projects such as this tree planting not only contribute to sustainability through carbon sequestration, but provide a living laboratory for any future research related to sustainability.” Dr Roddy Yarr, Director of Sustainability, said: “The planting of 20,000 trees at Cochno Farm is an important step towards the University’s long-term sustainability strategy. Efforts such as these are important for increasing biodiversity and creating habitats that enhance the Farm as a leading centre for teaching and research." “The University also seeks to provide tangible evidence to our staff and students as well as the local community who use this area regularly that we are really engaged and acting towards the climate emergency on a local level”. Professor Jaime Toney, Director of the Centre for Sustainable Solutions at the University of Glasgow, said: “These initiatives are important because they demonstrate the University of Glasgow recognises its role as a world changing university, and projects focused on sustainability are vital to our efforts to tackle the worldwide challenge of the climate emergency.” Cochno Farm and Research Centre delivers core teaching and research activities for the School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine of the College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences. It consists of approximately 850 acres of farmland entirely owned by the University, located north of Clydebank. The University of Glasgow ranked 20th out of 1,403 institutions in the recent QS World University Sustainability Rankings 2024. The first Scottish University to formally declare a Climate Emergency, the University of Glasgow is implementing an ambitious sustainability strategy to achieve net-zero by 2030, titled ‘Glasgow Green’.

Hamworthy United FC are storing up some good cheer for the rest of the season with a new sponsor – Store & Secure. The new ‘Store & Secure’ stand behind one of the goals is now resplendent in the local company’s bright branding. The football facility, which is also home to the Dorset FA, has a newly re-laid 4G pitch and the club is preparing to rocket up the leagues. Forced to pull out of the Southern League Division 1 South in October due to ground-grading issues, the Hammers have now satisfied the sport’s authorities and have their sights set on a return to the higher echelons of local football. Store & Secure is run by ‘storage sisters’ Lucy and Sophie Maidman who were brought up nearby, and provides all types or storage as well as serviced offices. Lucy commented: "Our huge storage facility is just up the road from Hamworthy United and we wanted to support local charities and sports. The club wanted a sponsor for the stand behind the goal and we thought it was a perfect fit." “I know the club is used every day of the week which means lots of people seeing our name. We were brought up close to the ground and the family has always been involved with the club.” Hammers’ President Bruce Scammell said: “The stand was built about 20 years ago in memory of Irvin Brown, and we have added a plaque to note the fact." “But we wanted a sponsor for it and Store & Secure were kind enough to offer. The income will help us achieve our aim of rising through the leagues now that we have added a brand new stand to ensure the ground satisfies the league requirements.”

Community projects across the borough have been supported through Charnwood Community Grants. Over £40,000 has been allocated to 16 projects by Charnwood Borough Council in its latest round of community grants. These grants offer vital funding for projects which range from wellbeing events to lipreading classes and flower planting. The Council awards Charnwood Community Grants worth tens of thousands of pounds per year to help support community groups and projects across the borough. Councillor Liz Blackshaw, the Council’s lead member for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “It is fantastic to see so many community projects supported through our latest round of grants." “These projects offer great services to our residents and they play a massive role within our community." “I would encourage any community projects within Charnwood to have a look and apply for any funding which they are eligible for.” Charnwood Men & Women in Sheds have been awarded £2,000 towards their running costs. The group offers the chance for people to socialise and share skills in producing pottery, woodcraft, ironmongery and gardening. A further £2,888 has been granted to B-Buddies to purchase bike ramps for the popular cycling classes they put on for people across the borough. £1,128 has been awarded to Communities Food and Wellbeing Hub for the health and wellbeing events that they provide for residents. The Leslie Edwards Trust has been awarded £1,425 for lipreading & communication skills classes in Loughborough & Birstall. Three Charnwood Community Facility grants have also been awarded and they include £9,291 to Nanpantan Scout Group towards their new build scout and community centre and £8,250 to Shepshed Cricket Club to improve toilet facilities and accessibility. The 13 Charnwood Community Grants which have been awarded are: £2,000 to Age UK – Charnwood Men & Women in Sheds towards general running costs. £2,888 to B-Buddies to purchase outdoor ramps for cycling activities. £1,128 to Communities Food and Wellbeing Hub towards providing Health & Wellbeing Events. £3,750 to Falcon Support Services towards the Charnwood Drop-In Service. £970 to Friends of Mountsorrel Castle Gardens towards improvements to Castle Park. £1,750 to Golf in Society towards purchase a golf buggy to enable wider access to the golfing facilities. £1,000 to Grow Give Live towards street side planters for edible and flowering plants providing free of charge access to fresh produce to people in Syston. £1,425 to Leslie Edwards Trust towards lipreading & communication skills classes in Loughborough & Birstall. £2,044 to Menphys towards the start-up of Saturday Clubs in Charnwood. £1,022 awarded through Community Grants and £1,022 from Loughborough Grant. £1,500 to Modern Painters New Decorators towards work with disadvantaged communities in Charnwood through art, £500 awarded through Community Grants and £1,000 from Loughborough Grant. £1,545 to Sileby Tennis and Pickleball Club towards the repurpose of a tennis court to create three dedicated Pickleball and kids mini tennis courts. £1,500 to Without Walls towards to general running costs of Singing Cafes in Shepshed and Loughborough. £9,291 to 1st Nanpantan Scout Group towards completion of internal and external new build works £3,600 to Bishop Beveridge Club towards installation of solar panels £8,250 to Shepshed Cricket Club towards improving the toilet facilities and disability access.

Bread has been a dietary cornerstone for centuries, serving as a versatile and satisfying staple in various cultures worldwide. Rich in carbohydrates, it provides a quick source of energy, making it an essential component of many diets. From the artisanal loaves crafted by skilled bakers to the convenient sliced bread found in households globally, this simple yet versatile foodstuff plays a crucial role in our daily nutrition. Beyond its nutritional value, bread serves as a canvas for a myriad of flavours and textures. Whether paired with spreads, used as a vessel for sandwiches, or as a complement to hearty soups, its adaptability enhances the overall dining experience. Moreover, the process of bread-making has become a cherished tradition for many, fostering a sense of community and creativity. While the nutritional content varies across different types of bread, whole grain options offer additional benefits. Packed with fibre, vitamins, and minerals, whole grain bread contributes to digestive health and provides a more sustained release of energy. As dietary preferences evolve, the market has responded with an array of options, including gluten-free, sourdough, and ancient grain varieties, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Despite its enduring popularity, misconceptions about bread's impact on health persist. Understanding the role of portion control and choosing whole, minimally processed options can help integrate bread into a balanced diet. As with any food, moderation and mindful choices are key to reaping the nutritional benefits while maintaining overall well-being. In conclusion, bread's role in our diet extends beyond mere sustenance—it embodies culture, tradition, and culinary creativity. By embracing a variety of options and incorporating bread mindfully into our meals, we can continue to enjoy this timeless and comforting food as an integral part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Engineers from UK universities have developed a new method of measuring temperature through the interaction of a soft and flexible ‘smart skin’ sensor with electromagnetic waves. The sensor developed by the team is made from a composite of carbon fibres and silicon rubber, and works without battery power or onboard processing. The flexible sensor’s ability to absorb and reflect radio-frequency (RF) signals varies with atmospheric heat or cold, enabling the sensing of temperature across a much greater range than other comparable devices. It can also withstand thousands of cycles of bending and stretching without losing its sensitivity to temperature. Temperature sensors are found in almost all electronic devices, and the global market for the technology is currently valued between $5-8bn. Typical temperature sensors, known as thermistors, work by changing resistance in response to changes in temperature. However, they are usually only capable of measuring over narrow ranges of temperature variation, meaning temperature sensors often rely on an array of different thermistors to cover a wide sensing range. The new soft, flexible temperature sensor, developed by a team led by researchers from the University of Glasgow, is capable of reading temperatures across a record-breaking range from 30°C to more than 200°C. This could make help make future wireless sensors cheaper and more sustainable, as fewer devices will now be required to cover the same temperature sensing range. In a paper published in the journal Nature Communications, the researchers show how used a 3D printer to mould the flexible material and integrated it into components like antennas, RFID labels, and resonators. Then they tested its ability to absorb radio-frequency (RF) radiation at different temperatures ranging up to 300°C. Dr Mahmoud Wagih, UK IC Research Fellow and Lecturer at the University of Glasgow, led the study. He said: “Sensors are the main interface between the analogue world and smart devices. To communicate real-world changes in measurements like temperature or humidity to wireless smart devices, those measurements first need to be digitised." “We designed a simple soft composite using common silicone and carbon fibres, which can be easily moulded into any shape. These skin-like substrates could be used to design antennas over large areas, which can then radiate signals that are highly sensitive to temperature changes." “Many researchers have used RF and microwave devices to measure liquid formulations, temperature, humidity, and other physical and chemical parameters. However, this level of sensitivity has not been demonstrated before.” Researchers from the University of Southampton supported the development of the flexible, stretchable sensor material, which could be easily integrated into bendable electronics and smart fabrics. The paper shows how the material could be bent and stretched for thousands of cycles, without significant changes in its response. Collaborators from Loughborough University worked to characterise the new material’s electrical properties, demonstrating how it functioned up to a frequency of 26 GHz, into the spectrum of 5G communications technologies. The team suggest that with “anisotropic” properties that change how the material interacts with electric fields in different directions, the composite could be further tailored to enhance or reduce sensitivity to specific wireless signals. The technology could underpin a wide range of additional future applications including vital sign monitoring, radar sensing, satellite communications, and 6G wireless networks. Dr Wagih is now leading a new research project, funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), which will build on the research to find new applications in sustainable and biodegradable wireless electronics. Dr Wagih commented: “We are delighted to start further research on functional and natively stretchable materials for body-centric wireless sensing, building on our track record in cutting-edge RF sensing." “The UK is already a leader in applied microwave engineering and advanced materials, and we hope that collaborative research like this will help lead to results which can find commercial applications." The team’s paper on, titled ‘Wide-range soft anisotropic thermistor with a direct wireless radio frequency interface’, is published in Nature Communications. Researchers from the Universities of Glasgow, Southampton and Loughborough contributed to the paper, along with colleagues from PragmatIC Semiconductor Ltd in Cambridge. The research was supported by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the Royal Society, and the Royal Academy of Engineering and Office of the Chief Science Adviser for National Security.

Sheffield Hallam University – the home of the National Centre for Excellence in Degree Apprenticeships – has been awarded £459,917 in the first wave of the Office for Students’ (OfS) Degree Apprenticeship Funding Competition. The competition has been launched to boost the capacity and equality of opportunity within degree apprenticeship provision in higher education. It will see the OfS distribute a total of £40 million to universities in the next 18 months. Sheffield Hallam will use the grant to provide additional capacity to support four existing apprenticeship courses, aiming to boost recruitment by enhancing engagement with local and national employers. It will also support one new discipline – an accounting finance management apprenticeship – specifically selected to respond to regional economic demands. The investment will also be used to support local SME employers to improve equality and inclusion, and to recruit a diverse group of degree apprentices which is representative of South Yorkshire communities. More than 80.9% of Sheffield Hallam degree apprentices are from one or underrepresented student groups, something which it will help employers across the region to reflect. Sam Moorwood, Head of Work Based Learning at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “Sheffield Hallam is proudly a standard-bearer for degree apprenticeships in the UK, and this funding will help us to improve and expand our award-winning provision." “This award will help us to increase recruitment, offer a new apprenticeship standard in accounting finance – a key sector for the regional economy – and to support local businesses to take on more people from a range of backgrounds. Degree apprentices provide a vibrant and skilled workforce for South Yorkshire – something that will be crucial to the region’s future and its growth.” Robert Halfon MP, Minister of State for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education, said: “Degree apprenticeships are a crucial rung on the ladder of opportunity and an important instrument of social justice. By offering people from all backgrounds the chance to gain valuable workplace experience while studying for a degree, they open doors that might otherwise have been closed." “Whether it is providing more nurses for our NHS or helping get more women in engineering and construction, I look forward to seeing how these projects help more people climb the ladder of opportunity, address skills gaps and help grow our economy.” Degree apprentices are employed and learn on the job, completing study blocks at university alongside their work. Apprentices receive a degree and usually a guaranteed job. Sheffield Hallam University is already the largest provider of degree apprenticeships (DAs) in the UK, and a leading voice in the policy landscape around applied and practical learning. As the home of NCEDA, it offers more programmes than any other UK provider, and has recruited close to 3,000 degree apprentices since the qualification was launched in 2016. In 2023, Hallam degree apprentices won awards at National Apprenticeship Awards, as well as the North East National Apprenticeship Awards, Food and Drink Federation Awards, and UK Packaging Awards.

VIVO Defence Services and its tier one supply chain partner Henry Brothers Construction have broken ground on a £6m scheme to house an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Troop at Gamecock Barracks near Nuneaton. The troop is relocating from Chetwynd Barracks, Nottingham, to Gamecock Barracks, in Warwickshire, under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme. Henry Brothers has been selected by client VIVO Defence Services to deliver the new building for the troop. It will feature space for offices, garages and stores, and will be built at the Southern edge of the base. Joined by representatives from the DEO Army Programme, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Gamecock Barracks and construction partners William Gough, VIVO and Midlands-based Henry Brothers Construction have now broken ground on the scheme. Warren Webster, Programme Director for DIO Major Projects (Army) said: “This is another demonstration of our commitment to increase the pace, quality and volume of Defence infrastructure delivery, by doing things differently." “We are working closely with our colleagues in DIO Regional Delivery and their long-term partner VIVO and its suppliers, to build this important capability. Collaboration remains at the heart of our delivery intent, and when completed, Gamecock Barracks will provide first class Explosive Ordnance Disposal facilities for the central region.” Managing director of Henry Brothers Construction, Ian Taylor, said: “Henry Brothers is very pleased to be continuing the successful relationship with VIVO Defence, which follows delivery of a new dye pod facility recently at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire." “This development at Gamecock Barracks will rehome an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Troop – giving them modern, purpose-built, secure facilities as part of the MOD’s investment into the armed forces." “Henry Brothers has significant experience of working within MOD sites across the UK, helping to improve and upgrade key military resources, and we are delighted to have now broken ground and started work on this latest development.” Jerry Moloney, Managing Director of VIVO Defence Services, added: “It is great news that work is now underway to build this important new facility at Gamecock Barracks." “We look forward to delivering it with our supply chain partners to the troop and are proud to work so closely with the UK military on developing new important infrastructure for them.” Belinda Lunn, Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme Director said: “I am delighted to see this significant project get off the ground, expanding our ongoing programme of investment and construction across the UK, to benefit Army personnel and support military capability." “I look forward to working with all partners involved in this project and to seeing the new infrastructure at Gamecock Barracks take shape over coming months.” The scheme for EOD Troop at Gamecock Barracks is due to be completed by the end of the year.

EHL Hospitality Business School announces the release of an insightful study conducted jointly by Dr Jean-Philippe Weisskopf and Dr Philippe Masset, revealing the transformative trends shaping the hospitality industry in 2024. Normalizing WhatsApp for client communications, integrating AI into operations, diving into the hype world of mocktails, or changing strategies to properly manage property price fluctuations, 2024 will be awash with novel experiences and ways to face the shifting macroeconomic landscape. "This study reflects the hospitality sector's dynamic evolution and its role in our increasingly digital society” says Dr. Weisskopf. "It's about balancing tech innovation with the undiminished human need for meaningful connection and authentic experiences, and how this will translate in this year’s top developments." The research identified 10 pivotal vectors of change, out of which leading trends will emerge: Workforce empowerment: Transforming challenges into opportunities; AI and technology: Choosing the best tech to revolutionize hospitality; Culinary experiences: Putting experiences, authenticity and the senses first; Bars and drinks redefined: Adding creativity and design to the drinks’ menu; Fine dining: In need of reinvention but full of potential; Fine wine prices: Navigating the fluctuating vineyard market; Rising interest rates: The impact on hotel property values and transactions; Green hospitality: Beyond sustainability to net positivity; Data-driven decision-making: Data analytics for optimum personalization; The power of social media: Crafting authentic narratives. "In today’s global hospitality landscape, it is difficult to confine ourselves to an annual update. Certainly, several general trends have been in place for years and continue to evolve, but by and large, this once cosy industry is constantly innovating and reinventing itself,” adds Dr. Masset. As a healthy expansion of the hospitality sector can be witnessed post-COVID, these trends can inform industry stakeholders of its significant transformation.

Sainsbury’s has announced it will be investing £200 million to offer a leading rate of colleague pay, increasing to £12 per hour and recognising the hard work of colleagues across Sainsbury’s and Argos. Effective from March, this is Sainsbury’s single biggest ever investment into colleague pay and 120,000 hourly paid colleagues will benefit. Sainsbury’s has increased pay by 50% since 2018 and by 9% in the last year, in line with the Real Living Wage. Sainsbury’s has an excellent track record in being a leading employer, with consistent improvement in colleague retention and lower absence. The pay increase to £12 per hour, £13.15 for colleagues in London, makes it the largest supermarket to pay colleagues the new Real Living Wage nationally and the London Living Wage. This will give colleagues an extra £1,910 a year nationally and £2,290 a year in London. The investment of £200 million, brings the three year total investment in colleague pay to over £500 million. In addition to the pay increases during recent years, Sainsbury’s has provided colleagues with free food during shifts and increased colleague discount of 15% at Sainsbury’s every Friday and Saturday and 15% at Argos every payday. This Christmas, all colleagues received a voucher to earn 4x Nectar points on their big Christmas shop, as well as a 20% discount at Sainsbury’s during Christmas week. Sainsbury’s believes that engaged colleagues deliver the best service and overall customer satisfaction scores are consistently ahead of full-choice competitors. Supporting colleagues with pay and benefits is a key part of Sainsbury’s Save to Invest programme, which focusses on making the business simpler and more efficient, allowing it to invest in areas that will make the biggest difference to customers. Simon Roberts, Chief Executive of Sainsbury’s said: “Our colleagues do a brilliant job delivering for our customers every day and at the same time they are continuing to face the rising costs of living. So, in addition to investing to keep our prices low for customers, I’m delighted to confirm an industry leading pay increase again this year for all our hourly paid colleagues." "At Sainsbury’s we will be increasing pay by 9.1% to £12 per hour, taking our investment into colleague pay to more than £500 million over three years. For a full time colleague, this is an extra £1,910 a year and this increase is well ahead of inflation and the government’s 2024 national living wage of £11.44. “We continue to lead our industry in the level of reward and benefits we provide for our people and this remains a clear priority for us at Sainsbury’s. We believe well rewarded, engaged colleagues deliver the best service and attracting and retaining the best talent will be crucial to our success in delivering the next phase of our business strategy.” Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer said: “We will always make sure that work pays and are proving it by cutting taxes for 29 million people this week and increasing the National Living Wage by a record amount in April." “It’s great to see Sainsbury’s rewarding hard work with this pay rise for 120,000 employees around the country.” Bally Auluk, USDAW National Officer said: "The continuing strong working relationship between USDAW & Sainsbury's has resulted in an inflation busting pay award of over 9% despite inflation falling and following on from the significant pay increases over the previous couple of years. The current cost of living is still on the rise which is why USDAW are very pleased the business has taken this on board during our consultations and responded in such a positive manner, which includes continuing to offer free food and additional discount."

Aldi, the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket, has introduced contactless payment at its checkout-free store in London to make it even quicker and easier for customers. The change means customers will no longer have to register via the Shop&Go app on their phones and can instead simply tap their contactless payment card, or mobile phone, to enter the store. The Aldi Shop&Go concept store in Greenwich opened in January 2022 and allows customers to complete their shop without scanning a single product or having to go through a checkout. The system uses specially-positioned cameras to detect which products have been picked up. Once customers have finished shopping, they are charged automatically via their contactless payment card or Aldi Shop&Go account and can receive their receipt via the app or website. Ben Shotter, Regional Managing Director at Aldi UK, said: “It has been great to see how positively customers have responded to our Shop&Go trial, and this latest change will help to make it even quicker and easier for people to use the store." “We’re always looking for ways to improve our customers’ shopping experience, which is what our Shop&Go store is all about.”