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.

Contractor Clegg Construction has been appointed to deliver a multi-million-pound refurbishment at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Leeds. Work has just started on site at the prominent hotel on the corner of Lower Briggate and Swinegate, which will be operated by Belfont Hotels. The design and build project will modernise the building and includes the refurbishment of existing bedrooms, as well as creating new bedrooms, to take the total number of guest rooms to 108. It also involves modernising ground floor function rooms, the restaurant and bar, as well as the installation of new windows and renovations to the roof and elevations. Clegg Construction pre-construction director, Ross Crowcroft, said: “We are very pleased to have started on site to refurbish and modernise one of the most iconic hotels in Leeds city centre." “This refurbishment of the Cosmopolitan Hotel for Belfont Hotels will upgrade a landmark building in the heart of Leeds and turn it into a leading hospitality venue which will be perfect for both leisure and corporate demand." “Clegg Construction is extremely familiar with the area around The Cosmopolitan Hotel, as we are currently on site at Spinners Yard in Regent Street delivering a 185-apartment private rented scheme for Rise Homes, plus we are working on an 11-storey student accommodation development in Leylands Road.” Other members of the development team include project manager Edmond Shipway, architect Franklin Ellis and engineer Rodgers Leask. Work is expected to be completed in the spring of 2025. The scheme is the latest in a long line of hotel projects undertaken by Clegg Construction, including the Travelodge London Stockley Park Hayes hotel, which was completed in 2021, and a new Premier Inn in York which is currently being built. In Leeds, Clegg Construction delivered the external recladding of the Premier Inn Leeds City Centre Arena hotel in 2021 and the creation of the Premier Inn Leeds Headingly Hotel (constructed on top of the Arndale shopping centre) in 2017. Keval Thakerar and Akshay Dhamecha, directors at Belfont Hotels, commented: “We are excited to be working with Clegg Construction on this refurbishment that will see the Cosmopolitan Hotel repositioned as one of Leeds City Centre’s leading hotels, benefitting the local economy and community.” Clegg Construction is a Midlands, East Anglia, and Yorkshire-based construction firm specialising in the delivery of public and private sector projects. The company works with organisations of all sizes and specialities across a range of different sectors. For more information visit www.cleggconstruction.co.uk Photo Credit: Franklin Ellis Architects

Small business confidence regained some ground between the second and the third quarters of the year, but is still in negative territory for the sixth quarter in a row, according to FSB’s latest Small Business Index for Q3, in partnership with Google. The headline confidence reading was -8.0 points in Q3, up from -14.2 points in Q2, but some way below Q1’s measure of -2.8 points. The last time the measure was in positive territory was in Q1 of last year, before rising inflation and the energy crisis took hold. Among the major sectors, hospitality businesses had the lowest level of confidence, at -31.1 points for accommodation and food service activities. Retail and wholesale businesses were the next gloomiest, at -22.8 points, followed by construction at -7.7 points, manufacturing at -6.7 points, and information and communication at -3.5 points. The professional, scientific and technical sector was the only major segment to register a positive confidence reading, at 6.9 points. The far lower confidence readings for small firms in hospitality and retail underscore the need for more support for these sectors, with the forthcoming Autumn Statement a chance for the Government to announce measures to help, such as an extension to the SME-focused 75 per cent business rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure firms. Small firms encountered mixed economic conditions in the third quarter, with a base rate hike in August followed by a decision to stick at 5.25% in September, and a welcome easing of inflation across the quarter, although rising fuel prices made an impact. Two in five small firms whose costs had changed compared with the same period last year said that fuel prices were a factor (40.4%), an uptick from the 37.3% who said the same thing in Q2. Revenues over the previous quarter were marginally better than those reported in Q2, in keeping with the small recovery in confidence levels. A third (33.5%) of small firms reported that revenues increased over Q3, essentially unchanged from the previous quarter (Q2: 32.7%). Meanwhile, the proportion of small businesses reporting a drop in revenues over Q3, at 39.4%, was slightly lower than the 41.3% saying the same thing in Q2. Likewise, there has been a small but welcome improvement in small firms’ revenue expectations over the coming quarter, with over a third reporting that they expect higher sales volumes (35.4%, compared with 32.4% in Q2), and three in ten (30.8%) saying they expect a decrease, down from 35.4% in the previous quarter. Over the next year, half (49.6%) of small businesses aspire to grow in size, slightly down from the 51.3% who said the same thing in Q2, although the proportion expecting to contract also fell, from one in seven in the second quarter to one in eight in the most recent survey (Q2: 14.2%; Q3: 12.7%). The finding underlines the need for the Chancellor to look at how to boost small firms’ investment in growth in next month’s Autumn Statement. Changes in employee numbers among small firms were finely balanced in the third quarter, as almost the same percentage said they expanded their payroll over the previous three months as said their workforce decreased in size (13.1% and 13.3% respectively). Looking ahead, hiring intentions have moderated somewhat compared to the previous quarter, with 11.7% of small firms saying they expect to employ more people, down from 15.5% in Q2 who said the same, with 9.1% reporting that they expect their staff numbers to decrease, very similar to the 9.4% finding from Q2. The general trend towards stabilisation rather than growth or contraction was also seen among small exporters, with almost half (48.7%) saying their export volumes had stayed roughly the same in Q3 as in the previous quarter, up from just three in ten (30.3%) who said the same in Q2. However, this did mean that the proportion of exporters whose volumes rose fell from a third in Q2 (33.4%) to a quarter in Q3 (24.4%), with those reporting a decrease in exports also falling from 36.3% in Q2 to 26.9% in Q3. Among businesses aspiring to grow over the next year, the domestic economy was once more the most commonly-cited potential barrier, chosen by 63.5%, up from 61.5% in Q2. Fuel cost concerns doubled in volume, from 7.9% in Q2 to 16.2% in Q3, while the cost of finance hit its highest level as a concern since Q1 2015, mentioned by 9.2% of small firms. Rising costs ticked up slightly between Q2 and Q3, with 86% of small firms saying the cost of running their business was higher in Q3 than in the same period last year (Q2: 84.9%). Utilities (57.3%), inputs (43.1%), labour costs (42.8%), and fuel (40.3%) were the most commonly-cited causes of changes in business cost. The findings on late payment underscore the need for the Government to take more action on the issue, with three in five small firms (60.8%) reporting that they have late payments, and with 27.9% saying they got worse over the quarter. Martin McTague, FSB’s National Chair, said: “After the economic turmoil wrought by the cost of doing business crisis over the past year and a half, our latest Small Business Index shows signs of stabilisation in small firms’ performance." “The improvement in the overall confidence measure since Q2 is a good start, but we really want to see it firmly back in positive territory, rather than eight points below zero, as it is currently. " “We also need to beware that stabilisation does not turn into stagnation, and that intentions to invest and grow are not thwarted by economic circumstances, holding back the performance of the UK as a whole. The sun was frustratingly absent for much of this summer, and this will have weighed down on sectors linked to tourism and leisure." “With retail and hospitality still trailing the confidence levels recorded in other major sectors by some distance, the Government must think carefully about how to support firms in those sectors, who do so much to enliven high streets, towns, cities, and communities in every part of the country." “Small businesses were relieved to see a pause in the successive base rate hikes in Q3, but we must keep emphasising that the Bank of England should exercise caution and be alive to the risk of keeping the rate too high for too long. With the lending environment so tough for small businesses, the Bank should avoid worsening the situation by removing the valuable SME supporting factor." “The SBI results show the pressing need for the Government to tackle the risk of stagnation among small businesses at the forthcoming Autumn Statement." “The Chancellor must take a stand on late payment, building on recent Government work, as eliminating this scourge would add £2.5 billion to the economy, and save 50,000 firms every year." “The 75 per cent business rates discount for small retail, hospitality and leisure firms is due to run out at the end of March next year – it must be renewed past that date, to give relief to small businesses in consumer-facing sectors. It’s well past time too for the archaic business rates system to be overhauled." “We must also take action to tackle those problems holding the future of the economy back – one of the most stark is that, at present, the self-employed are not allowed to claim training in new skills as a business expense. These kind of clear flaws in the tax system must be solved if we’re to meet the productivity challenge." “Small firms are paying close attention to the stalls being set out by political parties as the next general election gradually comes into view. Improving their operating environment will benefit the economy as a whole, as well as delivering political dividends.”

Business confidence in the UK halved in the third quarter as worries over higher interest rates and weakening sales growth bite, a major survey of business leaders has found. Sentiment tracked by ICAEW’s Business Confidence Monitor (BCM) – one of the largest and most comprehensive quarterly surveys of UK business activity – put confidence at 2.9 on the index for Q3 2023, down from 6.1 in Q2 and below the pre-pandemic average. Domestic sales growth slowed to its lowest level since Q3 2021, reflecting weakening confidence, the survey found. This was partly driven by slowing customer demand with 37% of businesses citing this as a growing challenge, the highest since Q1 2021. Concerns over bank charges may have also dragged down overall confidence with the proportion of firms reporting this as an increasing problem at a record high as tighter financial conditions weigh on the economy. Confidence was weakest in the construction sector, plummeting sharply into negative territory (-30.5). This likely reflected the sector’s exposure to rising interest rates, high input costs and weak customer demand. Heavy rainfall caused delays to planned project work in the sector, which may have dampened sentiment further, the report found. By contrast, confidence was highest among transport and storage companies due to a strong holiday season boosting demand for leisure travel, ICAEW said. The government must use next month’s Autumn Statement to set out a clear plan for a resilient UK economy that provides stability for businesses, to enable confidence to grow, the Institute said. Suren Thiru, ICAEW Economics Director, said: “The economy showed increasing signs of distress in the third quarter as the squeeze from deteriorating customer demand and higher interest rates more than offset a boost from easing inflation." “The construction sector endured a particularly atrocious quarter as a perfect storm of rising cost pressures, a slowing housing market and unseasonably poor weather obliterated sentiment and output." “The forward-looking measures are disappointingly downbeat with weakening indicators of domestic activity, employment and investment intentions suggesting a difficult end of the year for the UK economy.” Michael Izza, ICAEW Chief Executive, added: “Business confidence unsurprisingly remains low given companies’ struggles with a myriad of financial challenges and weakening customer demand." “A clear strategy is needed to increase the resilience of the UK economy, and we’d like to see this included in the Autumn Statement. Our members operating across every region and every sector want an economy underpinned by certainty, clarity, stability and the right long-term incentives to influence investment, employment and growth.” Inflationary Pressures Ease Further Selling price inflation eased in the quarter, following record growth in Q2, and businesses expect it to drop to its lowest level since Q1 2022 over the next 12 months, as input cost inflation eases. Energy, water and mining are expected to cut their selling prices in the next year, while manufacturing and engineering are set to see big slowdowns in selling price inflation. While still high by historic standards, salary growth did slow for the first time since Q4 2020 as hiring activity declined, and was weakest in the property sector as confidence slowed amid a deteriorating housing market. By contrast, salary growth was strongest among manufacturing and engineering and energy, water and mining firms, and is expected to slow over the coming year across all sectors. Firms Moderate Investment Plans Capital investment growth continued to slow in Q3, reflecting the overall weakness in business sentiment and numerous financial challenges including the tax burden, bank charges, late payments and access to finance. Companies also continue to restrain their research and development spending. Companies plan to further moderate increases in capital investment over the next year, with financial challenges expected to continue contributing to this squeeze.

ICAEW Chartered Accountants are among the most trusted professionals in England and helped a majority of businesses navigate uncertainty during the cost-of-living crisis, research published today has found. The latest Edelman Trust Barometer, published to coincide with Global Ethics Day, found that of a range of professions, 89% of respondents in England said they trusted Chartered Accountants; only nurses ranked slightly higher, at 91%. Trust in ICAEW has reached its highest rate, up 10 points to 79% since the research was most recently carried out in England in 2021. During economic uncertainty and the cost-of-living crisis, Chartered Accountants have also been important to most English businesses, the research found. Seven in 10 organisations said they had used Chartered Accountants to help them navigate uncertainty in this period, highlighting that the profession’s position as trusted businesses leaders has been consolidated in the past two years. Researchers found significant increases across almost all drivers of trust in England, across characteristics relating to integrity, purpose, ability and dependability. Meanwhile, trust in chartered accountants and accountants more generally has also increased among respondents in England. Globally, the research found that trust in Chartered Accountants has reached 85% and is the only profession – aside from nursing – to see an uplift in trust. Trust in Chartered Accountants is now at its highest level since the survey began. The research, commissioned by ICAEW in conjunction with Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW) and other professional bodies, found that 78% of businesses view Chartered Accountants as crucial in addressing economic challenges. They are seen as data guardians by 81%, and responsible for data integrity and helping businesses combat misinformation by 77%. Three-quarters of respondents suggested that Chartered Accountants are vital to businesses given the growth of misinformation, and 81% said members of the profession should be tech savvy. Michael Izza, Chief Executive of ICAEW and Chairman of CAW, said: “It is clear that the role of the Chartered Accountant has evolved far beyond the traditional numbers; they are trusted business leaders and advisors." “Their expanding roles encompass resilience, data integrity, technology, and net zero transition, reflecting the evolving needs of businesses in today’s dynamic environment. Professional bodies play a crucial role in equipping their members to excel in these expanded capacities, thereby cementing their position as indispensable pillars of trust in the business world." “As companies in England continue to grapple with inflation and high interest rates, it’s evident from this research that ICAEW members have played important roles to help navigate businesses navigate uncertainty, and I am pleased to see the trust that is placed in our members.” Business leaders are now urging accountants to extend their role beyond finance by guiding on resilience, ethics, data integrity, and navigating AI, technology, and ESG matters, CAW said, with trust in accountants increasingly tied to the profession’s advocacy on social and environmental issues. Professional bodies can play a pivotal role in supporting their members as vocal advocates for ESG, providing resources, and fostering partnerships to ensure ethical considerations drive decision-making, it added. To meet these growing expectations, Chartered Accountants need to engage in broader discussions about resilience and digital transformation.

In recent years, there's been a growing buzz around a unique and eco-friendly addition to gardens worldwide - bug hotels. These miniature structures are not only charming garden decorations but also serve as crucial havens for a variety of beneficial insects and other small creatures. So what are bug hotels and how they are making a positive impact on our environment? Bug hotels, sometimes referred to as insect hotels or bug houses, are man-made structures designed to mimic the natural shelters and nesting spots that insects and other small wildlife seek in their habitats. These mini sanctuaries are typically constructed using a mix of organic and recycled materials, making them both sustainable and attractive garden features. Bug hotels are like boutique accommodations for a range of fascinating and essential garden inhabitants. They provide shelter and nesting sites for a variety of creatures, including: Bees : Solitary bees, which are important pollinators, find refuge in bug hotels. They lay their eggs in tiny holes or chambers within the structure. Ladybirds : These beloved garden predators overwinter in bug hotels, helping to keep harmful pests in check. Butterflies and Moths : Many species of these delicate insects use bug hotels as a safe spot to pupate and seek shelter. Spiders : While not everyone's favourite, spiders play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. Bug hotels offer them a cosy hideout. Beetles, Lacewings, and Hoverflies : These insects are all-natural pest controllers and are often drawn to the welcoming environment of bug hotels. Bug hotels bring a host of advantages to the garden ecosystem: Biodiversity : By attracting and providing a home for various insects, bug hotels increase the biodiversity in your garden. This, in turn, creates a healthier and more balanced ecosystem. Pollination : Solitary bees, in particular, are excellent pollinators. Providing them with a habitat ensures better fruit and vegetable yields in your garden. Pest Control : Many bug hotel residents are natural predators of garden pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Education : Bug hotels are fantastic tools for educating both children and adults about the importance of insects and their role in the environment. Aesthetics : Bug hotels can be beautifully designed, adding a unique and charming element to your garden. Creating a bug hotel is a creative and eco-conscious endeavour. You can use a variety of materials such as logs, bamboo canes, twigs, pinecones, straw, and recycled items like old pallets. The key is to provide a range of habitats, including different-sized holes and crevices to accommodate various insects. Bug hotels are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require periodic upkeep. Cleaning out the chambers and replacing old materials is essential to keep the environment healthy for your tiny residents. Bug hotels offer a win-win situation for both your garden and the environment. They support biodiversity, promote pollination, and contribute to a more balanced and ecologically friendly landscape. So, if you're looking for a way to enhance your garden's appeal while giving back to nature, consider welcoming these charming bug hotels into your outdoor space.

Cost is an increasingly large barrier to a more sustainable lifestyle in 2023, with the majority of consumers saying they haven’t adopted sustainable behaviours in the last 12 months because it is too expensive, according to the fourth edition of Deloitte’s Sustainable Consumer 2023 report. The survey of 2,000 people in the UK showed that, of the consumers who did not adopt a more sustainable lifestyle, 62% blamed cost, up 10% on 2022. Key Findings: Cost is a barrier to adopting a more sustainable lifestyle, with the majority of those not doing so saying it is too expensive (62%); One in three (30%) stopped purchasing certain brands and products because of sustainability-related concerns; However, one in four (26%) are still prepared to pay more for sustainable products; Consumers concentrate on ‘at home’ sustainable behaviours such as recycling and those that save money; Cutting energy consumption prioritised over longer-term energy efficiency solutions. However, many consumers are making more conscious sustainable purchasing decisions, with close to one in three (30%) saying they have stopped purchasing certain brands or products because of ethical or sustainability-related concerns. For most consumers, sustainability starts at home, with the majority adopting activities such as recycling (76%), reducing food waste (68%) and limiting single use plastic (64%). Adopting Circularity There has been an increase in consumers adopting circularity (the practice of renewing, reusing or recycling something) in the past year. The research shows that over half (55%) repaired an item instead of replacing it (53% in 2022) and 46% bought second hand or refurbished items (40% in 2022). In addition, 76% say they would consider using a repair service (73% in 2022). Emily Cromwell, ESG lead for the consumer industry at Deloitte, commented: “For most, adopting a more sustainable lifestyle starts with recycling or reducing waste at home. However, many consumers are beginning to actively consider sustainability when buying products and services, as well as considering their overall lifecycle." “The cost-of-living crisis is also having an impact, with sustainable behaviours that help people to spend less seeing the largest year-on-year uplift, and given inflationary pressures, the increasing adoption of circular practices could be more about saving money than saving the planet. Whatever the reason, the growth of conscious buying habits is welcome. The question is, how much of this behavioural change will become permanent?” Consumers Cut Back On Energy Consumption Almost a quarter of consumers (23%) have switched to what they believe is a renewable energy supplier in the past 12 months. While most consumers have tried to lower their energy consumption by cutting things like heating (81%) and washing clothes at a lower temperature (74%), a third or less have invested in longer term energy-saving solutions such as home insulation (25%), solar panels, energy-efficient appliances (36%) or double glazing (31%). Looking ahead to the next 12 months, the majority intend to continue to reduce their energy consumption wherever possible, but just over one in ten plan to install solar panels or replace their boiler with a heat pump. Taking Stock To Gain Trust A third (34%) of consumers stated that their trust in brands would be improved if they were recognised as an ethical/sustainable provider by an independent third party. A similar proportion (32%) claimed that their trust in brands would be improved if they had a transparent, accountable, and socially and environmentally responsible supply chain. Consumers also value net-zero goals, with 27% saying they would trust brands more if they target net-zero by reducing carbon emissions, rather than relying on carbon offsetting./p> Emily Cromwell added: “Consumers want businesses and institutions to take the lead in supporting them in their adoption of more environmentally sustainable habits and are prepared to be loyal to those who do." "It is key that businesses work together with policymakers not only to make sustainable choices more affordable, but also to share better information around the impact of buying choices on the environment. This will be key to support a long-term change in consumer behaviour.”

National Parks UK and Santander UK recently announced a growth in their partnership to support the restoration of nature across some of the country’s most-loved landscapes. Santander UK will support the development of an innovative nature financing platform in the Lake District National Park designed through Revere, a collaboration between the National Parks Partnerships and global impact firm Palladium. The platform, developed together with local landowners and the National Park Authority, will secure investment to fund the creation of nature-based solutions that are designed to improve water quality in lakes and rivers, enhance biodiversity and build natural climate resistance. The solutions will include wetland creation to slow water flows and woodland planting in high impact locations such as along riverbanks. The first phase of Revere’s work in the Lake District was funded by Estée Lauder Companies UK & Ireland and resulted in the identification of over 400 hectares of riparian woodland and wetland creation opportunities across the Lake Windermere catchment that would reduce the amount phosphorus pollution entering the lake. The funding also led to the creation of a financial model to assess options for funding the wetland and woodland sites. Santander UK is picking up the baton to enable phase two of the nature financing platform design work. Richard Leafe, Chief Executive of the Lake District National Park Authority, welcomed the new partnership: “The landscapes of the Lake District provide enjoyment to millions of people every year, but they also provide opportunities by enhancing water quality, improving biodiversity and adapting to the impacts of climate change by reducing flood risk. In Windermere we’re continuing to work with experts and the community through the Love Windermere partnership, taking an evidence-based approach to address the current water quality issues." “With Santander UK’s support, we will be able to explore new nature-based solutions by unlocking much needed investment. This is an exciting and innovative project that will continue our work towards a healthier lake and surrounding area for everyone to enjoy.” This support builds upon Santander’s 2021 commitment as a founding partner of the National Parks ‘Net Zero With Nature’ initiative which places UK landscapes at the heart of the fight against climate change and the biodiversity crisis. As part of their commitment, Santander supported the restoration of 200 hectares of damaged peatland in the Cairngorms National Park. Since then, Santander UK staff have enjoyed a variety of volunteering sessions in the National Parks including peatland restoration in the Cairngorms and scrub clearance and litter picking in the South Downs National Park. James Dunne, UK Head of Wealth Management and Insurance at Santander UK said: “It’s fantastic to share the exciting news about the second nature restoration project that Santander is supporting through its partnership with National Parks UK. I had the good fortune to be involved in the first project that delivered peat restoration in the stunning Cairngorms National Park. The second sees us supporting this innovative collaboration to deliver landscape restoration at scale in the inspiring Lake District." "We know our customers care about protecting the environment and have an expectation that businesses are responsible in the ways they do business. The important partnership with National Parks UK allows us to demonstrate we do take it seriously, not just by supporting nature restoration but also by encouraging our colleagues to get involved and volunteer.” Andrew Wilson, Director of Communications and Responsible Banking at Santander UK said: “I’m delighted that Santander UK is continuing the valuable partnership with National Parks UK, which started in 2021 with support for peatland restoration in the Cairngorms. The new collaboration to help deliver landscape restoration at scale in the beautiful Lake District is an innovative way to drive the pace and scale of local nature-based solutions. The project to improve biodiversity and water quality in the area, and to build climate resistance, is incredibly important and it is exciting that Santander can continue to be involved in facilitating nature restoration of this kind.”

Francis House Children’s Hospice is bringing the magic of Christmas to a pop-up shop in Quayside MediaCityUK by filling it with 40 unique Christmas trees. The Festival of Christmas trees opened on Saturday October 28, and aims to encourage members of the public to place bids the unique trees, each packed with vouchers, signed football shirts, hampers, vouchers and handmade gifts. The annual project involves businesses, community groups and individuals coming together in the decoration of a one-off Christmas tree which will be auctioned off to raise funds for the Greater Manchester hospice. Based in Didsbury, Francis House provides respite care, homecare, end of life care and a range of other services to the families of children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. Participants this year include JP Goldman, Cardinal Global Logistics, Beaverbrooks the Jewellers, Morrisons, Uplift Knitters, LIFT-Financial, Amaranth, DLA Piper and Lowbury Construction. The event this year is sponsored by Towers Business Park and Quayside MediaCityUK. Julie Williams, fundraising officer at Francis House said: "Anyone visiting the display is in for a real treat. With the help of our tree sponsors there is something to tempt everyone to place a bid and be in with the chance of taking a truly unique tree home for Christmas." “We provide the tree and lights, and the rest is left up to the imagination of our fantastic sponsors. Cardinal Global Logistics have created a bright and beautiful Barbie tree and the Thomason family have put together two trees bursting with football, gaming and food and drink goodies.” Bids can be placed on each tree for five weeks in the run up to Christmas, either in store or online at www.festivaloftrees.co.uk A range of Christmas decorations, gifts and cards are also on sale in the shop along with the opportunity to win a raffle prize and take part in a lucky dip. With some trees fetching hundreds of pounds each it is hoped the event this year will exceed the £25,000 in profit raised in 2022. The shop can be found on the first floor of Quayside MediaCityUK, formerly the Lowry Outlet and runs from October 28 until December 3. To view a gallery of the trees and to discover more visit www.festivaloftrees.co.uk

In the world of investments, art is often considered an unconventional and intriguing option, partly as a result of personal tastes and preferences. After all we are not all going to like the same thing and may even have a different perspective of what is actually art in the first place. While stocks, real estate, and bonds are the staples of most investment portfolios, art can offer a unique blend of aesthetic pleasure and financial gain. In this feature, we'll explore the intricacies of investing in art, its potential as an alternative asset, and the factors that make it an attractive option for investors. The art market has witnessed substantial growth over the years, making it a significant player in the alternative asset investment space. Traditionally considered the domain of art collectors and enthusiasts, art is now drawing the attention of savvy investors who see potential beyond the brushstrokes. The global art market is known for its resilience, and investments in art can yield considerable returns. Investing in art offers diversification for portfolios, which is essential for managing risk. Art has a low correlation with traditional assets like stocks and bonds, making it an appealing choice for those looking to spread risk and add stability to their investments. Even during economic downturns, the art market can remain relatively buoyant. One of the primary attractions of art investment is its potential for long-term appreciation. Unlike stocks or bonds, art doesn't rely on quarterly reports or economic indicators. Masterpieces from renowned artists have consistently appreciated in value over time, often outpacing the performance of more traditional assets. Owning art is a tangible and pleasurable experience. You can enjoy your investments as they adorn your walls or provide inspiration. This dual role of art as an investment and a source of aesthetic pleasure makes it stand out among alternative assets. Investing in art is not without its challenges. Unlike stocks, art doesn't come with a prospectus or financial statements. It requires a certain level of expertise to identify promising artists, assess the authenticity of works, and understand market trends. Many investors engage art advisors or rely on auction houses to navigate the complexities of the art world. Art investments come with risks, including the volatility of art markets, liquidity challenges, and the potential for forgery. It's crucial to thoroughly research and consider these risks before delving into art investment. Diversification and a long-term perspective are key to mitigating these risks. Investing in art is a unique and captivating option that can bring financial returns and aesthetic enjoyment. While it may not be suitable for every investor, those who appreciate the intersection of culture and finance may find art an appealing addition to their investment portfolio. As with any investment, it's essential to approach art investment with a well-thought-out strategy and, when necessary, seek professional advice to make the most of this alternative asset class.