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Robert Half warns cash-strapped workers likely to move roles for better pay as skills shortages continue to drive jobs confidence according to their latest insights. Key Findings: Almost two-thirds of workers (62%) feel confident about their job prospects for the next six months Pay confidence takes a hit as the cost-of-living crisis prevails ‘Unique’ economic climate creating a tight labour market where ‘cash-strapped’ employees are in the driving seat, creating concerns of another mass exodus of staff Job confidence across the UK workforce has grown, with 62% of employees stating that they are confident about their job security for the next six months. That’s according to the latest Robert Half Jobs Confidence Index (JCI) – an economic confidence tracker produced by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and specialist recruitment firm, Robert Half. This latest figure – reported in the June edition of the report – represents a quarterly uptick on the 53% of the workforce who were confident about their job security in the previous JCI. This is largely influenced by improvements in macroeconomic confidence, which rose 23.1 points quarter-on-quarter at the beginning of 2023, though it still remains in negative territory. With the JCI predicting that the economy will grow by around 0.2% year-on-year in 2023 at a time when skills shortages remain prevalent, this jobs confidence is likely to continue on an upward trajectory. However, the data also revealed a level of dissatisfaction with remuneration, with the pay confidence pillar of the JCI not only remaining in negative territory, but also falling a further 29.1 points quarter-on-quarter. The Index shows that significant contractions in real employee earnings continued to weigh on the pay confidence indicator so far this year. Average total pay, while up by 5.8% annually in nominal terms, was down by 3.0% after adjusting for inflation in Q1 2023. Poor figures for labour productivity growth and pay variance across comparable occupations also held back an improvement in the pay confidence pillar. These indicators continue to stand in a weaker position than their long-term average. Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland, at Robert Half , commented: “The latest Jobs Confidence Index reveals a complex labour market – one where dissatisfaction with real earnings is leading employees to feel increasingly confident in the value they bring against a skills shortage backdrop, all in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. With wage rises on the scale that some are demanding, potentially unrealistic for a number of firms, the concern is that another en masse talent exodus is on the horizon." “The risk of employees seeking better opportunities and remuneration elsewhere would not only pose challenges for businesses that need to deal with such talent losses, but could also fuel a wage spiral should pay continue to be leveraged to attract the best talent to replace those lost. In this environment, retention strategies that look at the entire remit of employment benefits will be key.”

New research by Aston University's Centre for Business Prosperity has shed light on the realities faced by the Midlands region concerning international trade. The report, Midlands International Trade: State and Challenges, looked at the region's trade performance from Q3 2019 to Q2 2022 and offers recommendations for recovery and growth. It highlighted several factors disrupting exports across the UK, including Brexit uncertainty, the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, the UK's EU exit, reduced demand and higher costs. In 2019, the Midlands accounted for £56 billion in exported UK goods, representing 16% of the UK's total goods exports. However, the value of goods exports experienced a significant decline in 2020, dropping by over 10% to £45.6 billion - five times higher than the national average decline of around 2%. Additionally, the Midlands' services exports were severely disrupted, with a near 25% reduction in export value, making it the worst-hit region. Between 2021 and 2022, the Midlands' rate of recovery lagged behind the UK average, resulting in a two-percentage-point reduction in the region's share of UK exports. Machinery and transport account for over 60% of the region's exports, but the decline and slow recovery in this sector, particularly in the West Midlands, have negatively impacted the region. Jun Du, a professor of economics at Aston Business School who worked on the report, said: “We found the Midlands' exports rely equally on EU and non-EU markets, but the decline in exports since 2020 has been more pronounced in non-EU markets." “The East Midlands and West Midlands exhibited varying rates of recovery, with the East Midlands showing signs of bouncing back in 2022 while the West Midlands' recovery has been weaker." “To revive and develop exporting in the Midlands, we recommend developing Midlands export markets and trading relationships by promoting regional firm strengths, exploring growth markets, and influencing UK trade policy." “We encourage policymakers to help SMEs explore overseas markets, develop export strategies and enhance overseas marketing capabilities by providing training, education and inspiration to Midlands entrepreneurs and business leaders regarding exports." “There is also a need to pursue a regional industrial strategy that leverages the region's strengths and competitiveness in emerging global markets, emphasising sustained exporting and firm productivity.” Professor Delma Dwight, director of Midlands Engine Observatory, said: “It’s clear that there is no one single issue that’s causing trade challenges in the Midlands, and it follows therefore that there is no one single solution. Neither is the exporting journey a linear one, whether that’s for large companies or SMEs." “Supporting businesses of all sizes, wherever they are in terms of export growth, will help them predict and adapt to changing conditions. If we can bolster confidence across the board, over time that becomes the bedrock of a more stable recovery.” For more information and access to the full report, click here .

Almost 3.4 million pension savers could retire with more than £225k in the 2050s according to the latest research from Aviva who are calling on the government for a ‘blueprint’ of pension savings support. Key Figures: Almost 3.4 million 32-40 year olds saving into their defined contribution pension could accumulate £225,000 or more in pension savings by the time they retire in 2050 Although significant, this wealth is unlikely to provide a moderate retirement income according to Retirement Living Standards (PLSA) Majority (64%) of those on middle incomes due to retire in the 2050s say that they do not know how much they need to save to achieve their desired retirement income level. More than half (52%) say they “wouldn’t know where to start” when it comes to planning for their retirement The majority (72%) want unbiased advice; but just one in ten (10%) of those on middle incomes retiring in the 2050s have taken advice. Paying an extra 2% into a pension each year, could increase total pension pot by £56,000 Aviva, as one of the UK’s leading pension providers, has called on government, regulators, and the wider industry today to work together to develop a blueprint of the support those retiring in the 2050s need, to overcome the challenges they face, before it is too late. Working with UK economics consultancy, WPI Economics, Aviva has today published a new report: ‘Preparing for and retiring in the 2050s’. This report analyses the challenges facing those who are set to retire in the 2050s – aged 32 to 40 today – and explores the support and policies they need to manage their wealth in later life. Drawing on new evidence and analysis to understand what retirement will look like for future retirees, the report examines pension savers’ knowledge and understanding of how much they need to save to retire comfortably, how to invest their money, and where to go for help and guidance so that their pension wealth lasts throughout retirement. The study reveals that a typical middle-income earner, contributing 8% of earnings into a defined contribution pension throughout their working life, could retire with a pension pot of £225,000 or more in the 2050s. Although significant, this level of wealth is unlikely to provide someone with a ‘moderate income’ in retirement, according to the Retirement Living Standards (PLSA). Just under one in five (19%) say they feel completely or somewhat prepared in terms of how they will fund their retirement. Most (64%) say they do not know how much they need to save into a pension to realise their desired retirement income level, and over half (52%) would not know where to start when it comes to planning for their retirement. Few know that paying an extra 2% into their pension each year, could increase their total pension pot by £56,000 by the time they retire. The report highlights the support this new mass market of savers with defined contribution pensions will need to navigate incredibly complex decisions about how to convert their pension wealth into a decent income stream throughout retirement. Key to this is transforming professional support, from introducing simplified and hybrid advice for defined contribution pensions, to delivering more effective, personalised communications and guidance, and developing a new approach to whole-of-retirement planning. Doug Brown, CEO of UK & Ireland Life at Aviva says, “The pension landscape has changed significantly over the past decade, but the introduction of important initiatives like automatic enrolment in 2012 and pension freedoms in 2015 have not yet been matched by the wider support needed to help people make the most of the opportunities available to them. This needs to change and change quickly if we are to help future retirees." “Almost 3.4 million people are expected to retire in the 2050s with accumulated pension pots of more than £225,000. The vast majority of these will need financial advice, and everyone will need robust, well-designed professional support in their decision-making and planning, but the majority say they have no idea where to begin. Despite this, there is no clear vision of the support people need, and consequently policy is piecemeal and insufficient – leaving savers at risk from poor decisions. Government, regulators, and industry need to work together to develop a blueprint of the support that pension savers need and take steps to put that support in place, so future retirees are able to make better decisions and achieve more positive retirement outcomes.” Key actions Aviva has set out a list of key actions for government, regulators, and the wider industry, to help support pension savers today and future retirees, which include: 1 - Transform professional support to make it work for this new mass-market for wealth management: Set a policy ambition that defined contribution pension savers (particularly those retiring on more than £200,000 pension pot) take up some form of professional advice. Focus the current review of the advice framework (3) on what support is needed to properly serve this new mass market, for example simplified advice for pensions. Remove regulatory barriers to allow providers and other regulated entities to deliver more effective support, such as personalised guidance. Promote the delivery of pension advice and guidance through workplaces. 2 - Set a clear roadmap for expanding auto-enrolment over the next decade: Deliver the 2017 auto-enrolment review which recommended lowering the age threshold for auto-enrolment from 22 years to 18 and removing the lower limit of the 'qualifying earnings band,' so that contributions are paid from the first pound earned. Sustainably increase minimum pension contributions above 8%. Aviva believes, if it is affordable, employees should aim to save at least 12.5% of their salary towards their pension every month. They do not have to do this on their own because employers make contributions on their behalf, and they get tax relief on the money they put in. 3 - Deliver Pensions Dashboards Programme (PDP): The PDP is a significant opportunity to help people make sense of their retirement savings and take action – such as the consolidation of small pots - to optimise their chances of good retirement outcomes. 4 - Develop a new approach to whole-of-retirement planning and support: Develop guidelines for the effective management of defined contribution wealth throughout the whole of retirement. Encourage providers to work with their customers to develop a whole-of-retirement plan. Develop and pilot Later-Life MOTs to engage retirees at critical decision points.

A strong line-up of riders will be heading to Hickstead in West Sussex this week for the 61st Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting (22-25 June). Some of showjumping’s biggest names, including reigning Al Shira’aa Derby champion Shane Breen, his brother Trevor, four-time winner William Funnell, and British team regulars Guy Williams, Tim Gredley, Holly Smith and Amy Inglis are among those competing in the international classes at this four-star show. Three members of the famous Whitaker family are in action, including 2016 Hickstead Derby winner William, his brother James, and his cousin Robert. Ireland’s Michael Pender shot into the limelight when becoming the youngest ever Al Shira’aa Derby winner in 2019. He was just 19 when he lifted the Boomerang Trophy, in what was his first ever attempt at the class. Since then, he’s gone racing up the Longines International Rankings, and he makes his return to Hickstead with the plan of jumping in the Agria Derby Trial with a view to another tilt at the Derby itself. Other notable Irish riders to look for include Dermott Lennon, who was crowned World Champion in 2002. He has had a number of runner-up places in the Derby, and it’s surely only a matter of time before he takes the top spot. David Simpson, a two-time Queen Elizabeth II Cup winner, is another to watch out for this week. Several Olympic eventers are also on the start list for the show, including local rider Gemma Stevens (nee Tattersall). Gemma has been combining top level showjumping with eventing for the past few years, and she is due to make her Al Shira’aa Derby debut with the stallion Envoy Merelsnest Z. Top German riders Kai Ruder and Sandra Auffarth both had great runs in last month’s Hamburg Jumping Derby, and they both head to Hickstead for the first time. Harriet Biddick’s phenomenal Derby campaigner A Touch Imperious – who has been runner-up five times – is going to miss this year’s event due to a minor setback, but she does bring her prolific Speed Derby winner Silver Lift II. If Harriet can add another title to her collection, she will equal Guy Williams record of four wins, while Silver Lift II will become the first horse to have won the class four times. The international action gets underway on Thursday 22 June, which offers free general admission to everyone (a £12 car parking charge applies). The highlights of this day include the Stoner Jewellers Vase speed class, and the ClipMyHorse.TV Derby Tankard. On Friday the main class is the Agria Derby Trial, which acts as a qualifier for the Derby itself, and is a superb indicator of which horses and riders are on form. The British Speed Derby takes on Saturday 24th, plus there's a second chance for Derby horses to qualify in the Agria Hickstead Master's Trophy. Sunday is Al Shira'aa Derby day, with the free Public Course Walk taking place from 10.15am and the pre-class parade of riders at 2.15pm. The show also includes many showing classes, including the prestigious Tattersalls RoR Ridden Show Series Championships for retrained racehorses. The Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry is another highlight, while on the River Lawn you can see some of the tiniest riders and their ponies take part in the Total Waste Management Ltd Mini Challenge. With a shopping village, a family funfair, a host of bars and eateries, plus plenty of space to enjoy a picnic, the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting is one of the must-visit events of the summer. Tickets are on sale now from www.hickstead.co.uk . Photo credit: Elli Birch/Boots and Hooves Photography

A soaring National Insurance bill is adding to the challenges businesses face in attracting and retaining top talent, says independent consultancy Broadstone. Analysis of government data by Broadstone, a leading employee benefits consultancy, reveals that the National Insurance Contributions (“NIC”) made by employers increased by 42% over the five-year period to March 2023. The total cost of NIC to UK employers was £103bn in 2022/23 according to the latest HMRC tax receipts data, up from £72bn in 2017/18. This comes at a time when increasing inflation has also seen wage bills increase. Sharp increases in NIC receipts in the past two years, 11% and 15% respectively, have coincided with wage increases of 7% per year. Paul McGuckin, Head of EB Distribution at Broadstone, which has more than 500 specialist consultants and administrators in its ranks advising employers in the UK on the best way to attract and retain talent, says employers are looking to improve their broader benefits package to offset the salary and associated NIC increases. Paul said: “Employers are facing a difficult environment, inflation is pushing up operating costs and salaries, at the same time as the tax burden is increasing. NIC costs a particularly punishing for businesses that are having margins squeezed as they are a tax on employment, not profit.” “As a result, we are seeing lots of interest in salary exchange programmes that can help employers offer valued benefits, like healthcare or wellbeing initiatives, while reducing the cost of NICs for both them and their workforce. Engagement is key when it comes to uptake, so employers are often using technology like flexible benefits portals to manage the employee communications.”

The LTA and Lexus have announced a major new partnership which sees the prestige car brand becoming the Official Performance Partner and Official Automotive Partner of the LTA. The multiyear deal provides Lexus with naming rights across key LTA performance areas, at all levels of the professional player pathway, from junior domestic competitions to LTA major events, and the elite national teams. Lexus will also have naming rights for the LTA’s performance competitions: the 2023 calendar features 45 weeks of international and domestic competitions hosted in Britain, providing British tennis players with crucial opportunities to gain competition experience, ranking points and prize money on home soil. The national teams competing in the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup and World Team Cup will be known as the Lexus Great Britain teams. The largest public tennis centre in Britain, and host to the Rothesay Open and British Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships, will be named the Lexus Nottingham Tennis Centre. The LTA’s Pro Scholarship Programme (PSP), the highest level of support offered to players aged 16-24 with the best chance of reaching the heights of the game, and the final stage of the LTA Player Pathway, will become the PSP, presented by Lexus. Full list of rights included in the partnership: • National teams: Lexus Great Britain Davis Cup Team, Lexus Great Britain Billie Jean King Cup Team, Lexus Great Britain Team (World Team Cup) • Lexus Trophy Series • Lexus Pro Series • Lexus British Tour • Lexus National Junior Tour and Lexus National Junior Championships 2 / 01/06/2023 • Lexus Junior Internationals • Lexus Wheelchair Tennis National Finals • Lexus Nottingham Tennis Centre • Pro Scholarship Programme, presented by Lexus As the official automotive partner of the LTA, Lexus will provide vehicles as part of the official transport at the LTA’s Rothesay Summer Series major events, Trophy Series and Pro Series events. Scott Lloyd, LTA Chief Executive said ‘As the governing body of tennis in Great Britain, the LTA’s mission is to open up tennis and grow the game at a grassroots level as well as to support the development of talented players to the top of the game. This is a significant partnership, that incorporates many areas of our performance development as well as engaging fans and participants. We’re delighted to have Lexus on board and look forward to kicking off the British grass-court season on Sunday at the Lexus Surbiton Trophy." Chris Hayes, Director of Lexus in the UK, commented: “We’re honoured to be partnering with such a prestigious organisation to help foster up-and-coming British tennis talent and provide a clear pathway to future competition success, while showcasing the excitement and energy of the sport." "The partnership was a natural step for the Lexus brand, and we look forward to showcasing our Lexus omotenashi hospitality and craftsmanship to British tennis fans throughout this season’s LTA events and towards the future.”

A family construction firm has won a top industry award after transforming a run-down property into a warm and secure home. Stirling-based Kevin Wilson Master Builders were named Heavenly Builder of the Year by the Federation of Master Builders’ (FMB) Scotland. The award followed the urgent restoration and renovation of a Victorian property in Stirlingshire which needed to be brought up to modern standards while retaining its character. The team, led by the firm’s co-founders Pam and Kevin Wilson, completed the work in just eight weeks and were praised by the satisfied clients for their excellent workmanship and compassionate approach to the project. The proud couple now go forward to the national final of the FMB Awards which take place in September. Mrs Wilson said: “We’re delighted to have won the award for this project – it was a really poignant job and meant a lot to us to see the property transformed." “Due to the sensitive nature of the job, we can’t go into too much detail but the works included the refurbishment of the whole house carried out to a tight schedule. It was an extremely rewarding project and made a real difference to the life of the home-owner." “It’s wonderful to see our hard work recognised and validated by our industry body through the Heavenly Builder of the Year Award.” The project included the refurbishment and double glazing of 48 panes of original sash windows throughout the property and a new kitchen and bathroom. The job also prompted Mrs Wilson to begin volunteering with Stirling Food Train – a charity which provides a grocery delivery service for elderly people with the aim of supporting them to live independently at home. She also organised a Ukraine donations drop off point at the firm’s workshop and collected two van loads of clothing, toiletries and other items which were delivered direct to Ukraine. She says: “I wanted to do more to help vulnerable people in our community, especially following the lockdowns, and it’s been so rewarding volunteering at Stirling Food Train and also organising the donations from local people who wanted to help Ukrainians.” The clients were delighted with the work conducted by Kevin Wilson Master Builders and provided a testimonial for the FMB judges. It noted: “Our project was urgent - requiring great compassion as well as requisite building expertise and project management capability. “KWB went over and above customer service expectations. They constructed an affordable project scope for early review and negotiation against a constrained budget requirement. “They supported us to contact the right local businesses to select requirements such as kitchen, bathroom and flooring and managed the project faultlessly maintaining an outstanding dialogue throughout around progress and issues. “The level of service was excellent and all responses to requests timely and full and delivered in a friendly manner. As a result, the owner returned to a warm home at the earliest opportunity.” The testimonial concluded: “The human dimension of this project was always firmly in the mind of the project team. KWB were highly empathetic and understanding of the need to improve the property whilst not altering it too much to change its character." “In summary, the project was delivered with excellence to high technical quality and to budget and the owner is thrilled with the transformation to the property.” The biennial FMB Awards celebrate the achievements of firms across the UK showcasing examples of high-quality craftsmanship, top customer service and building excellence. The prestigious honours aim to recognise the contribution small and medium-sized companies make to the UK construction industry. Any project entered by a builder is required to be backed up by the client involved, who must testify they delivered exceptional results, and is assessed by a team of judges. Gordon Nelson, Director of FMB Scotland, said: “Taking on the renovation and restoration of an aged property, Kevin Wilson Master Builders showed great compassion and professionalism throughout a project that ultimately saw them win this coveted Master Builder Award." “The independent judges hailed Pam and Kevin's focus on ensuring the safety, security, warmth and wellbeing of their client." “They also loved the commitment shown by them in supporting the surrounding elderly community by doing their weekly shop. For me, the project demonstrated the builders’ skills, experience and professionalism to deliver exactly what was needed, when it was needed and in the manner of an empathetic and socially responsible company. “My congratulations to Pam and Kevin who are worthy winners of the Heavenly Builder of the Year Award for Scotland.” The Wilsons now face competition from regional and devolved nation winners across the UK as they compete to be named the overall winner of the Heavenly Builder Award at the FMB’s national final in London on Friday September 22. Kevin Wilson Master Builders, based at Springkerse Industrial Estate, Stirling, was established in September 2007 and covers all types of building work from residential renovations and extensions to commercial projects.

Introduction/overview Flight Club and its cleaning and hygiene partner Sybron, celebrated their first year of partnership in March 2023. As Flight Club’s parent company, Red Engine, renews its contract with Sybron, significant benefits have been identified from their collaboration including 15% cost savings, zero stress, and 100% confidence! The first contract which was signed in March 2022 was fully mobilised in under four weeks. After the three month ‘honeymoon period’, there was no dip in the levels of service from Sybron, something which can be prevalent in many new supplier relationships. Indeed, both the purchasing manager and venue managers of Flight Club, are delighted that all it takes is just one call or email to Sybron and any issue is resolved swiftly and efficiently. The challenge Flight Club opened the oche at its first social darts venue in Shoreditch in 2015 with its focus on bringing joy, fun and quality time to its patrons. Today, Flight Club has grown to 13 venues across the UK, with two more planned by 2023 year-end. When David Piazzani joined Red Engine as Purchasing Manager in October 2021, it quickly became apparent that one of his first tasks was to review the supply of consumables for cleaning and hygiene at the Flight Club sites. “The then supplier of all the cleaning, hygiene and ancillary products caused me and our Flight Club managers a lot of stress and anxiety every day,” explains David. “With no after-sales service and a poor response to issues and problems, we started to look for a company we could develop a real partnership with. We knew that there must be a better supplier out there with more sustainable solutions, plus the attention to detail, pro-active approach and willingness to be a real business partner to us.” The solution When David met Sybron he knew immediately that they were the right partner and in March 2022 both companies began a relationship that still, one year on, astonishes the Flight Club team with its level of service and proactive approach to every day needs. Hygiene Service Partner, Sybron, provides products such as cleaning and disinfectants, hand towels and toilet paper, as well as janitorial supplies including sponges, mops and brooms to all the Flight Club venues. However, it is the Sybron ethos of differentiation through a seamless service that has delivered the bullseye for Flight Club. “Being a buyer can sometimes be very frustrating because everyone offers you the same thing over and over again,” explains David. “Sybron take a completely different approach.” The Sybron approach • Regular communication with an open and honest dialogue. • Sybron deals directly with venue managers, ‘I don’t have to be the middle-man’ says David. • Problems and issues are dealt with swiftly and efficiently. Cases in point! In 2022 the Bloomsbury Flight Club in central London had a random council and risk assessment. The manager immediately emailed Sybron, who replied within 30 minutes and provided all the additional information requested by the inspector. o In December 2022 the Bloomsbury Flight Club site had all its sanitary bins unexpectedly removed by the previous contractor, leaving no facilities for that day. Within a few hours of being alerted to the problem Sybron had delivered, set up and installed bins ready for use, so there was no disruption of service. • Sybron has a pro-active approach to managing our account. o The team is consistently taking initiative and provides alternatives if there is a spike in price or a supply issue. o Sybron finds the best product, explains why it is better and what the environmental benefit is – they don’t just provide a catalogue and ask you to choose. o The Sybron approach is to engage with staff to plan and avoid problems before they happen. o They do not wait for busy managers to call them with urgent supply issues. “Usually, Sybron has presented us with the solution before the problem arises,” explains David. “That’s because Sybron is totally aligned and integrated with our business. This gives me and the Flight Club team the confidence that someone is thinking on our behalf. “Having a partner that understands the nature of our business means that I don’t have to repeat or re-explain anything. We discuss it once and it is done.” The results As a result of its partnership with Sybron Flight Club bagged a cost saving of 15% across all its sites. But as David says: “We have saved a lot of money, but to me the cost is secondary to the service. A good price is pointless without the service. Sybron delivers zero stress and the fact that I have 100% confidence is equally valuable.” “When I find a partner like Sybron, it makes my life easy. Now they are completely symbiotic with us in terms of growth and are completely integrated into our operations for the opening of a new venue. I am not even a part of it anymore, it just happens automatically. I don’t have to be the middle-man as with many suppliers. It is a dream partnership.” Our customers are our partners “Of course, service is a big part of our business,” explains Brad, director of operations at Sybron. “We are completely focused on both solving any problems promptly, but also on working to make sure there are no glitches or setbacks in the first place. “That has always been our take on business. We see every contract as a joint partnership where we help both businesses move forward and grow. That does not happen by being reactive, so we differentiate ourselves by a wholly proactive and integrated approach.” “It is thanks to our team that we have created the synergy with Flight Club, particularly our colleagues in the office and our drivers. Our ethos resonates across the whole company – our customers are our partners, and they have a name rather than a number.” Sustainable growth Flight Club has doubled its estate for venues in over three years and by the end of 2023 will have 15 locations, including the first site to open in Scotland. “With such massive growth, some things can get a bit lost. The partnership with Sybron has enabled us to meet our environmental goals to switch to eco cleaning products,” explains David. “Moving such a big ship over to using solely sustainable products is not something that can happen overnight. However, thanks to its proactive attitude and breadth of product range, Sybron is working with us to reach our aim – to move to all eco-cleaning and hygiene solutions by the end of 2023.” Forward together “WE SEE THIS PARTNERSHIP AS A JOINT VENTURE. LONG TERM, WE WOULD LIKE TO CONSOLIDATE MORE AND CREATE MORE FLUIDITY WITH SYBRON THAT WILL ALLOW US TO GROW. THEIR SEAMLESS SERVICE GIVES US THE PLATFORM TO ACHIEVE THIS. ALL OUR TEAMS HAVE TOTAL CONFIDENCE IN SYBRON.” “For me, it is something I don’t even think about anymore,” concludes David. “As a Purchasing Manager, Sybron is at the back of my mind, which is the best place to be if you are a supplier.” “Looking ahead, maintaining a top-class service gets harder as you grow, so more efficiencies are required,” adds Brad. “Our business has a strict growth strategy to ensure we maintain continuity of supply. We continually aim not just to be a box-mover, but to maintain a seamless service and be a real partner to our customers.”

Life will prove stranger than fiction for a University of Dundee student when she collects a degree on her first ever visit to the city. Author Ify Tony-Monye will travel from her home in Nigeria to attend Tuesday’s Graduation ceremony at Caird Hall, having completed her Masters degree in Quality Improvement and Patient Safety as a distance learner. She has juggled her studies while working in her home country’s healthcare system and continuing her career as a successful writer, with her fiction being nominated for an international prize. “This will be my first time in Dundee and I’m incredibly excited about Graduation week,” said Ify. “It will be great to physically meet my wonderful dissertation supervisor as well as a few of my fellow distance learning course mates." “I continued to write throughout my studies. Writing is very relaxing for me and when I write, I’m in my element. I found that it was very easy to take a breather from studying or my coursework by putting pen to paper, though I had to be very deliberate about striking that balance so that neither coursework nor official duties suffered.” Ify began her course in January 2020, with Dundee one of only a handful of universities to offer Quality Improvement and Patient Safety at a Masters level. In Nigeria, she works as a Quality Improvement Advisor with more nine years spent working in US Government-funded HIV programs. She leads a quality improvement team of 16 members, managing care for almost 200,000 people living with HIV across three states, and wanted to develop her skills further with a Dundee education. Her career in the field of fiction is equally successful, with her second novel, To Dance With Shadows, being nominated for the 2021 Switzerland Literary Prize and she has continued to publish work during her time studying at Dundee. With her studies now complete, she is now able to devote more time to penning her third novel, which is already underway. “I had studied in the UK before and knew that I would receive a good quality of education at Dundee,” she added. “It was also highly advantageous that I could pursue my course as a distance learner as it enabled me to work full-time even as I studied. I’m excited to visit Dundee to receive my Masters degree and utilise my new skills in my job, as well having some more time for my writing.”

Expert reveals how to make your makeup last all day during a heatwave. As the hot summer days are upon us, the urge to spend all day outside in the sunshine is inevitable. But what is also inevitable is heat, humidity and sweat, so it is common to consider avoiding makeup at all costs due to the risk of oily foreheads, patchy foundation and smeared mascara. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Experts at beauty and wellness marketplace Fresha have put together top tips on how to get your makeup to last longer during hot and sunny days, leaving you feeling confident and comfortable. 1 - Swap Your Usual Skincare For An SPF If you haven't already introduced an SPF into your everyday skincare routine, take this as your sign. Sunscreen should be used all year round, not just during the summer months, but it is essential to remember to use a higher SPF during seasons of higher UV to protect your skin. When it’s hot out, your skin might be better off with fewer layers of product. And, less layers of product underneath your foundation will make for easier application and longer wear. If you’re worried about your skin’s hydration, most sunscreens are formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to keep you moisturised all day long. Still, you should reapply your sunscreen often: every four hours if you’re indoors and every two hours if you plan to be outside all day. This may sound like this could be tricky once you have already applied makeup, but there are plenty of spray-on sunscreens that make reapplication easier. Apply an even layer of a spray SPF on top of your makeup regularly throughout the day to keep your skin protected. 2 - Use A Good Primer The preparation of the skin before you apply your makeup is just as important, if not more important, than the makeup itself. If your skin isn't prepped before you apply makeup, it can look patchy and uneven and reduce the length of time it will last. If you are attending an event such as prom, graduation or a wedding this summer, this step is vital to ensuring your makeup lasts. When layering up on makeup for a special occasion, take time with your preparation as it plays a main part in longevity, so don’t skip this step and assume it is all about the makeup. 3 - Consider The Finish Of Your Makeup While a dewy, natural glow is more on-trend than a flatter, matte finish, warm weather always brings the risk of looking oily rather than fresh. As well, higher temperatures can cause makeup to crease and sit in your pores. Go with an oil-free matte formula if you prefer a softer finish. This type of formula will also keep your skin looking less oily, and minimise creasing. 4 - Wear Less Product It sounds obvious, and to some who like to layer up on makeup, it can be hard to part ways. But by wearing less on your skin, you will have fewer chances of ending the day with patchy makeup. Instead of foundation, try lighter coverage options such as tinted moisturiser, BB creams or CC creams. If you like to wear more but look like you are wearing less, try a powder foundation, which will be one less liquid product on your face but will still provide buildable coverage. 5 - Skip Highlighters And Added Shimmers When you sweat, your body will produce a natural glow. So by avoiding shimmers and glittery highlighters, you will prevent your skin from looking shiny as the day goes on. If you cannot live without a little sheen, just remember, you want to look dewy and not sweaty. Only apply highlighter in areas where you don't get oily and you will allow your body's natural shine to come through. You can always apply a light powder throughout the day or use an oil wipe to get off any sweat. 6 - Lip Stains Over Lipstick Lip stains are a must-have for summer makeup as they come in hundreds of shades, are long-lasting and, most importantly, don't budge! Most lip stains are comfortable and moisturising and they come in various levels of coverage, which is great if you like to apply it a few times a day or just once. Lip stains are a great option for attending proms or graduations as they are easy to apply and don’t take up much room in your bag. They also reduce the time you will spend applying product as opposed to opting for a liner and lipstick. 7 - Setting Spray A setting spray is essential for the longevity of your makeup, especially in the heat. A setting spray will seal and lock in your whole face and keep it looking flawless. You can apply setting spray after each step of your makeup if you are really wanting a budge-proof look, or you can use it just before or after you apply. Setting sprays are also great for dampening sponges or beauty blenders before blending liquid products and are cooling down your face throughout the day or night. Setting sprays are a must when it comes to doing your own makeup or getting your makeup done professionally for an event. Finishing up your face with a setting spray will melt all the makeup seamlessly into your skin while setting it in place so you can enjoy your event knowing you will still look flawless at the end of the night. Getting your makeup done professionally during hotter months and how to make it last: If you are getting your makeup done professionally for an occasion, you will need to make sure you know exactly what the artist is using so you can work out which products you might need to take for touch-ups. For example, if your artist is using a more oil-based foundation and you intend on dancing the night away, it would be advised to take a small compact powder which you can use to reset your Tt-zone if you get oily. You can also take your own preferred products to an artist and ask them to use those if you feel like you know exactly what you want and how each of those products work with your skin. Do your research and make sure you are happy and confident with whom you are choosing to put products on your skin. Many artists offer a trial makeup session, especially for proms, graduations and weddings, which is a great idea for getting a feel for what the makeup will look like on the day. Make sure you chat to your makeup artist about how long you want it to last, as they’ll likely have a few pro tricks up their sleeve. Extra tips that will ensure long-lasting makeup in the heat: Try waterproof products, especially if you will be in the pool or at the beach. Use a matte bronzer over shimmery bronzer. This will prevent looking oily as the day goes on. Use an oil-free moisturiser which will prevent greasiness throughout the day. Avoid using eye creams on your eyelids before makeup. Instead opt for an eye shadow primer. Carry mini-products with you for top-ups throughout the day. This means you can touch up at any point without taking up much room in your bag. After applying lip liner and lipstick, use a similar colour eyeshadow or translucent powder on the top to lock in colour and prevent lip liner bleeding.

England’s second Rugby World Cup preparation camp in Brighton sees Steve Borthwick name an increased 38-player training squad. The squad, which does not include players from Gallagher Premiership finalists Sale Sharks and Saracens, gathered on the South Coast on Monday 19 June as England continue their preparations for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France which starts in early-September. “After an excellent first week’s training, we are very much looking forward to being in Brighton,” said Borthwick. “We’re pleased to welcome players from Northampton Saints and Leicester Tigers who can now start to integrate themselves into the group, and we look forward to players from Sale Sharks and Saracens joining us in a fortnight." “The first phase of our preparation continues to focus on ensuring the players are physically equipped for what we need to do in a World Cup campaign. That means the training will be tough and purposeful. The players are rising to the challenge." “We’ll work hard again this week, and we’ll enjoy some time together off the field too – which is also an important part of our preparation.” Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby) and Jack Walker (Harlequins) re-join the squad for treatment having picked up knee and calf injuries respectively whilst training at the Honda England Rugby Performance Centre last week. 38-player training squad: Forwards (20) Jamie Blamire (Newcastle Falcons) Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers) Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins) Tom Dunn (Bath Rugby) Charlie Ewels (Bath Rugby) Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears) Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers) Ted Hill (Bath Rugby) Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints) Lewis Ludlam (Northampton Saints) Joe Marler (Harlequins) George Martin (Leicester Tigers) Zach Mercer (Montpellier Hérault Rugby) Beno Obano (Bath Rugby) Tom Pearson (London Irish) Val Rapava-Ruskin (Gloucester Rugby) David Ribbans (Northampton Saints) Kyle Sinckler (Bristol Bears) Will Stuart (Bath Rugby) Sam Underhill (Bath Rugby) Backs (18) Henry Arundell (London Irish) Danny Care (Harlequins) Joe Cokanasiga (Bath Rugby) Fraser Dingwall (Northampton Saints) Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints) Will Joseph (London Irish) Joe Marchant (Harlequins) Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby) Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints) Cadan Murley (Harlequins) Guy Porter (Leicester Tigers) Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs) Fin Smith (Northampton Saints) Marcus Smith (Harlequins) Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers) Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester Tigers) Anthony Watson (Leicester Tigers) Ben Youngs (Leicester Tigers) Billy Vunipola (Saracens), Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers) and Luke Cowan-Dickie (Exeter Chiefs) remain in camp to continue their rehabilitation from injury. England’s Summer Series matches begin against Wales at the Principality Stadium on Saturday 5 August (kick off 5.30pm), with a return fixture at Twickenham Stadium scheduled a week later on Saturday 12 August (kick off 5.30pm). England then travel to Dublin to face Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday 19 August (kick off 5.30pm), before returning to Twickenham Stadium to play Fiji on Saturday 26 August (kick off 3.15pm). Tickets are available by visiting Englandrugby.com with prices for the England v Wales fixture starting from £40 adult, and from £35 adult for England v Fiji. All of England’s matches will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video. Steve Borthwick announces his 33-player Rugby World Cup squad on Monday 7 August. Tim Percival Men's England Team Communications Lead Rugby Football Union +44 (0)7810510060 timpercival@rfu.com @EnglandRugby To unsubscribe from RFU communications, please click here.

Sarah Wiseman Gallery is delighted to welcome back Sarah Spackman for her solo exhibition Objective Beauty this Autumn. Sarah Spackman explains: ‘Using colour to define the structure, I am looking for both clarity and richness. As Cezanne said, “Art is a harmony parallel to nature." Sarah Spackman is one of Sarah Wiseman Gallery’s most sought-after artists. In this highly anticipated exhibition, she will continue to explore shape and tone in a collection of smaller-scale still life painting. Best known for her still life, Sarah Spackman continues to work in a quiet, considered way, inspired by small, cleanly shaped objects, such as eggs, jugs, or simple gatherings of flowers. Sarah Spackman's strength of drawing and the delicate and subtle use of colour are two of the main qualities recognised in her work. She applies the guiding principle that good drawing is the basis of good painting, and that colour should be used to enhance the organisation and definition of observed space and form. Sarah Spackman has been awarded this year’s Frinton’s Frames Prize at the Bicentennial exhibition at the RBA (Royal Society of British Artists) Sarah has also been Elected as an associate member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. In 2020 she was elected as a member of the Small Paintings Group and is an elected as a member of Royal Society of British Artists. In 2019, she was the recipient of the Gordon Hulson Memorial Award at the RBA Exhibition. ‘Objective Beauty’ by Sarah Spackman will open Thursday 7th September at Sarah Wiseman Gallery. Sarah Wiseman Gallery is preparing a fully illustrated e-catalogue with all available works and additional texts about the artist. Please email them directly to request a link to the ecatalogue on info@wisegal.com