Search Results

In the run-up to the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards on Monday, 17th November, a new survey of 534 established business owners by Allica Bank reveals that while many businesses continue to navigate tough conditions, investment plans remain strong.   The findings highlight a cohort that, despite rising costs and economic uncertainty, remains firmly focused on the future. While 62% of respondents say running a business has become harder over the past year, more than 60% are planning to raise external funding in the next 12 months, up from 40% last year.   Overall, 90% of established businesses plan to grow their operations in this timeframe, with more than half (56.5%) already actively planning investment and a further 33% intending to start soon.   Rising costs continue to challenge businesses   The survey also found that when it came to the biggest pressures these businesses face, 66% were affected by rising operational costs, 62% cited the UK’s economic slowdown, and 52% have been affected by inflation. 32% of respondents also reported being heavily affected by interest rates and Employer National Insurance increases, while 31% cited limited access to business lending, and 37% said the pace of technological innovation has had a significant impact on their operations.   And while established businesses tackle these issues, 62% of them report feeling that banks do not understand the needs of smaller businesses, with over 30% citing a lack of understanding and guidance as a barrier to accessing finance.   Businesses double down on growth   Looking ahead to 2026, the survey reveals that business owners are focused on innovation, with many rethinking operations and improving efficiency.   When asked about priorities for next year, 64% said they are planning to hire more staff, 60% are focused on developing new products or services, and 40% plan to invest in new technology or software, while 29% will spend on marketing and advertising. Businesses also plan to channel resources into staff training, expanding premises, and purchasing new equipment or vehicles.   The data is released as 1,300 established businesses and entrepreneurs from all over the United Kingdom prepare to gather in London for next week’s Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards. The awards celebrate the very best of British innovation and the hard-working, established businesses that form the backbone of the UK economy, supporting growth, jobs, and communities across the country.   Conrad Ford, Chief Product & Strategy Officer at Allica Bank, said:   “What really stands out from this year’s findings is the determination and resilience of established businesses. Even with the challenges they face, they’re continuing to invest, innovate and create opportunity."   “These businesses are the ones driving jobs, ideas and growth in every community across the country. Their ability to adapt and push forward when things are uncertain is something we should all be proud of, and at Allica, we’re here to make sure they have the banking and support they need to do just that."  “As we come together to celebrate the finalists at the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, it’s clear that the UK’s entrepreneurial spirit remains strong and that established business owners will continue to play a defining role in shaping our economic future. As a former entrepreneur myself, I know how much dedication it takes to build and sustain a business, and I wish all the outstanding finalists the very best of luck next week.”

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of Ed Chamberlain on a season-long loan deal from Hull FC. The 29-year-old can feature in a number of positions including centre and back row, adding versatility and experience to Kurt Haggerty’s side in 2026. Chamberlain made his professional debut for Whitehaven in 2015, before going on to feature for Widnes Vikings and Workington Town, either side of a seven-game loan spell at the Bulls in 2017. Spells at Salford Red Devils and London Broncos followed before a successful stint at Leigh Leopards. The Ireland international scored 17 tries in 30 appearances as Adrian Lam’s side won the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup alongside promotion to Super League in 2022. Chamberlain was a part of the Leopards’ side that secured Challenge Cup glory at Wembley in 2023, before a move to Hull FC midway through the 2024 season. Having reflected on his first couple of days at the club, Chamberlain is targeting consistency in 2026. Ed Chamberlain said: “It’s been good, everyone has been really welcoming I know a lot of the lads from previous clubs. A new challenge gives you a chance to prove yourself and show what you want to be as a player, I don’t know what it will be for me but whatever position I end up playing in I’ll do my best each and every week." “It’s a big moment for the club, there is a massive buzz around the place and there’s big excitement around Super League having Bradford back in the competition but everyone is raring to go and everyone is ripping in." “The speed of the game in Super League is a lot quicker, you have to be fitter and you have to be able to think on your feet when you’re fatigued you have to keep pushing through, you have to make sure you can catch and pass. You can’t switch off mentally but I’d say a lot of the lads are already in good shape for the start of pre-season and should cope pretty well with Super League." “On a personal level, I just want to make sure I am playing consistently in whatever position I get put in I’ll do my best. Hopefully I’m in the squad for the full year and whatever goals we set as a club that’s what we’ll stick to, I just want to be consistent week on week.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “He’s versatile, he can play centre, back row and I’m also comfortable putting him in the middle of the field because he’s tough. He’s competent and he has got high skill levels, so he will certainly add value and versatility to the team." “We did a lot of homework on Ed and a lot of the people we spoke to said he’s a first class human being and a fantastic professional, so all those traits will help our young lads develop in and around the environment.”

The UK manufacturing sector endured another challenging period in the quarter to October, with output and orders falling sharply, sentiment deteriorating and investment plans cut back sharply, according to the latest quarterly CBI Industrial Trends Survey. Manufacturing output fell in the three months to October. The downturn was broad-based across sub-sectors, but driven by metal products, metal manufacture and electronic engineering. Firms expect output to fall again over the quarter to January. Demand conditions weakened notably. The volume of total new orders fell sharply through the quarter. Both domestic and export orders fell at their fastest rates since the early stages of the Covid pandemic (July 2020). Levels of total and export order books remain well below their long-run averages, and manufacturers anticipate another drop in new orders over the next three months. Cost pressures remain elevated, although growth in domestic selling prices has slowed and export prices have fallen, suggesting a squeeze on margins. Manufacturing competitiveness fell in all major markets. Manufacturers’ investment appetite has deteriorated markedly. Spending plans for the year ahead fell across every category, held back by weak demand, inadequate net returns and shortages of internal finance. Investment in plant & machinery and buildings looks set to fall particularly sharply. The share of firms investing to expand capacity fell to a level last seen in the recessions of 2009 and the early 1980s. Meanwhile, employment fell at the fastest pace for five years. Ben Jones, Lead Economist, CBI, said: “Manufacturers are finding the going tough. Order books are weakening, cost pressures remain stubbornly high, and uncertainty is rising ahead of the Budget. This is making businesses increasingly reluctant to commit to new hiring and investment." “To get manufacturing moving again, firms need to see the government accelerate energy cost support. That will help address a significant factor crippling the sector’s competitiveness. The Chancellor must also commit to no further business tax rises at the Budget and to boosting resources for exporters that will help firms maximise trading opportunities while raising productivity and growth.” The survey, based on the responses of 218 manufacturing firms, found: Business sentiment deteriorated in October, with manufacturers’ optimism about both the business situation (weighted balance of -31%) and export prospects (-43%) declining further. Output volumes fell in the quarter to October, at a similar pace to the quarter to September (-16%, from -13% in the three months to September). Firms expect volumes to fall again in the three months to January (-19%). The decline in output volumes was broad-based (14 out of 17 sub-sectors) and was driven by declines in the metal products, metal manufacture, and electronic engineering sub-sectors. The share of firms citing orders or sales as a factor likely to limit output in the next three months rose from July and stands above the long-run average (73%, from 62% in July). Total new orders fell through the quarter (-20%, from -17% in July), reflecting the fastest pace of decline since July 2020 for both domestic orders (-26%) and export orders (-26%). Manufacturers expect the total volume of new orders to decline again in the three months to January (-23%). Investment intentions for the year ahead have deteriorated. Manufacturers expect to reduce investment in plant & machinery (-46%, the lowest since April 2020, from -15% in July), in buildings (-42%, from -28%), in product & process innovation (-20%, from -6%), and in training & retraining (-19%, from -13%). The share of firms citing capacity expansion as a reason for capital expenditure over the next 12 months fell to its lowest since April 2009 (13%, from 28% in July). 47% of respondents cited increased efficiency as a reason for capex, and 46% cited replacement. The main constraint on investment was uncertainty about demand (cited by 65% of manufacturers, the greatest proportion since January 2021), followed by inadequate net return (35%), and a shortage of internal finance (20%). Average costs rose in the quarter to October at an elevated pace (+52%, from +63% in July; long-run average of +19%). Costs growth is expected to remain elevated in the quarter to January (+52%). Average domestic prices rose, but at a slower pace relative to July (+12%, from +33% in July), whereas export prices fell (-8%). Both domestic and export prices are anticipated to rise in the next three months (+16% and +8%, respectively). Stocks of work in progress fell in the three months to October (-10%), accompanied by a fall in stocks of finished goods (-8%, the fastest pace of decline in five years). Stocks of raw materials were broadly flat (-1%). Manufacturers expect stocks of finished goods (-23%, the weakest expectations since January 2021), of raw materials (-19%) and of work in progress (-14%) to all fall in the three months to January. Numbers employed fell in the quarter to October (-18%, from -11% in July) at the fastest pace in five years. Manufacturers expect another fall in employment in the quarter to January (-16%). Manufacturing competitiveness deteriorated across all major markets in the three months to October. Competitiveness in non-EU markets worsened at a slightly slower pace (-19%, from -23% in July), whereas competitiveness in EU (-18%, from -13%) and UK (-15%, from -4%) markets weakened further. Competitiveness is expected to decline again in the three months to January, particularly in UK markets (-23%, the weakest expectations since April 2020), followed by EU (-18%) and non-EU (-18%, a record low) markets.

Ahead of the Autumn Budget, with small business owners already worried about the prospect of tax hikes, 53% of UK small business owners say they need to secure funding or finance in order to invest in growth plans for 2026. The need for finance is most acutely felt in London (65%) - the engine-room of the nation – followed by enterprises in the North East (62%), Yorkshire / Humberside (58%) and Wales (54%).    Significantly, the new data from Novuna Business Finance reveals that the need for finance correlates most strongly with businesses that are planning rapid expansion, rather than it being a desperate measure for businesses in trouble. The poll of a representative sample of 1,244 small business owners revealed that those enterprises forecasting significant expansion were more likely to need funding to power growth (71%), compared to 49% of those that were dealing with moderate contraction or decline.    The findings suggest UK small businesses are heading into the Christmas trading period facing a challenging financial double whammy – at a time when the percentage of small business owners predicting growth has fallen to a new five-year low (25%). The widespread need for finance to power future growth into 2026 coincides with 86% of small businesses simultaneously fearing the possibility of Autumn Budget announcements that would adversely derail their plans for growth. Nationally, Budget rises to National Insurance (59%), VAT (50%), income tax (50%) fuel duty (37%) and further taxes on diesel or petrol vehicles (37%) would all negatively impact growth plans, according to business owners.    The Novuna research also explored the consequences of small business owners not securing funding in the months ahead – and the growth initiatives for 2026 that would be put on indefinite hold as a result. Plans to create jobs and increase headcount would be dropped by 33% of small businesses, whilst 28% said they would mothball plans to launch new products. In addition, 25% of small businesses would scrap plans to modernise their IT capability and 24% would postpone investment in new production lines and machinery. The Novuna Business Finance research also reveals a direct impact on supply chain, with 20% of respondents saying they would not be able to pay their suppliers on time.    Jo Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance comments: “There is so much talk about economic growth, but at times, there seems to be a lack of understanding on what is needed to create it. Our decade-long Business Barometer study shows clearly that the growth forecasts of UK small businesses have fallen to a five-year low for the final months of 2025." "The vast majority are extremely concerned about any Autumn Budget tax hikes that few enterprises feel they can absorb – and at the very time when they are looking for funding to support growth plans; whether this be investing in new equipment, hiring people, or modernising IT capabilities." "At Novuna Business Finance, we are working hard to support the small business community at a critical time - offering businesses in need of capital the ability to finance assets, an alternative that could potentially benefit their overall cash flow and ease pressure on other areas of their budget. Doing this with a flexible approach means that small businesses have the opportunity to better plan their growth. Now is a time to focus on supporting small businesses and to avoid adding any burdens that will damage their growth ambitions for 2026.”

Firms across the private sector expect activity to fall in the next three months (weighted balance of -20%), extending a run of negative predictions that began in late 2024, according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator. The downturn is expected to be broad-based, with business volumes in the services sector set to decline (-15%), driven by weak expectations in both business & professional services (-12%) and consumer services (-28%). Distribution sales are expected to fall sharply (-34%), alongside a contraction in manufacturing output (-19%). The disappointing outlook comes as private sector activity fell in the three months to October (-32%), the same pace as in the three months to September. All sub-sectors reported falling activity. Alpesh Paleja, Deputy Chief Economist, CBI, said: “Firms are facing a difficult winter, with private sector momentum weak and confidence fragile. Uncertainty around the upcoming Budget is weighing heavily on sentiment, with many firms keeping key decisions on hold until more clarity is forthcoming. Cost pressures from a variety of sources remain strong, with last year’s tax rises adding to the drag." “As a result, tough decisions to deliver policy stability and address fiscal pressures will be needed at the Budget. Our surveys clearly show that the private sector cannot bear the brunt of these decisions once again. The business tax burden is already at a 25-year high and – rather than tinkering around the edges – the Chancellor must strategically address the tax system’s complexities that are undermining growth and deliver a Budget and tax system that helps businesses invest, hire, and scale.” Key findings from our monthly Services Sector Survey showed: Business volumes in the services sector fell in the three months to October (-35%), at the same pace as in the three months to September. Both business & professional services (-34%) and consumer services (-40%) volumes fell heavily through the quarter. Hiring intentions within the services sector remain weak. Business & professional services expect headcount to fall modestly over the next three months (-11%), while consumer services companies expect a sharp fall in numbers employed (-33%) Selling price expectations in the services sector eased to their long-run average in October (+7%, from +14% in September). Inflation expectations have moderated for both business & professional services firms (+5%) and consumer services (+18%) A balance is the weighted percentage of companies reporting an increase minus those reporting a decrease.

The University of Dundee has bolstered its position as a global leader in stroke treatment and training by taking part in the world’s first robotic transatlantic thrombectomy. The event came hours after Dundee’s Professor Iris Grunwald, Director of the Image Guided Therapy Research Facility (IGTRF), performed the first-ever remote thrombectomy on a human cadaver. Using a cutting-edge robot developed by Lithuanian MedTech company Sentante, Professor Grunwald proved that a blood clot could be removed from the brain without a specialist being physically present when she performed the procedure from a remote site within the School of Medicine at Ninewells Hospital. That was followed by the groundbreaking moment when Ricardo Hanel MD, PhD – in conjunction with Professor Grunwald – used Sentante’s device to perform the first transatlantic thrombectomy on a human cadaveric model located at the IGTRF from Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. The Sentante platform uses standard guidewires and catheters connected to a device equipped with a high-resolution sensory system that captures the specialist's hand movements. These manipulations are replicated in real time by a robot at the patient's bedside. Unlike joystick-controlled surgical robots, Sentante delivers authentic force feedback directly to the surgeon's fingertips – recreating the tactile experience of manual surgery. The procedure only necessitates a medical professional trained to gain arterial access before a specialist such as Professor Grunwald or Dr Hanel performs the thrombectomy remotely. Professor Grunwald said,: “As a neurointerventionist, it is remarkable to feel the same fine control and resistance through a robotic interface as during a live procedure. Sentante’s technology truly bridges the gap between operator and patient, no matter the distance. Sentante’s robotic platform redefines what is possible in endovascular treatment today. It is precision, safety and access to treatment - all in one innovation.” Each year, there are about 15 million strokes worldwide. For the UK, the aggregate societal cost is estimated at £26 billion per year, including £8.6 billion for NHS and social care. Thrombectomy is considered the most effective way to treat patients with stroke caused by a large, blocked brain vessel but, in many parts of the world, less than 1% of patients receive this life- and brain-saving treatment. In 2024 only 212 patients received a Thrombectomy across Scotland. This represents 2.2% of patients who had an ischemic stroke. One of the major constraints to expanding thrombectomy services is the number of interventional neuroradiologists required to carry out the work. “By the time patients reach a specialist centre, there’s often no brain left to save. Every six minutes delay in receiving treatment equates to a 1% lesser chance of a good outcome,” continued Professor Grunwald. “For example, here in Dundee we're covering the north of Scotland – so a patient coming from Inverness or one of the islands would have a long distance to travel. The answer lies in expanding expertise locally through cross-specialty training, or by using robotic technology, such as Sentante, that lets experts operate remotely.” Dr Hanel added, “Tele neurointervention will allow us to decrease the gap and further our reach to provide one of the most impactful procedures in humankind – the thrombectomy – to more people. To operate from the US to Scotland with a 120 millisecond (blink of an eye) lag is truly remarkable.” The IGTRF is the official global training centre for the World Federation for Interventional Stroke Treatment, training doctors and teams from across the world. The facility offers a unique medical imaging environment that works in close collaboration with Dundee’s Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID) to provide interventional training, medical device testing and research opportunities. One of the University’s key strengths is the development of a perfused whole body human stroke model, which most closely approximates to ‘life-like’ patient simulation. Edvardas Satkauskas, co-founder and CEO of Sentante, said: “The human cadaveric models at Dundee are fantastic. This is the reason we have worked with them – this is probably the only site in the world that can do this type of research." “For an ischaemic stroke, the difference between walking out of hospital and a lifetime of disability can be just two to three hours. Today, patients are often transported long distances to reach one of a limited number of thrombectomy centres. With Sentante, the specialist comes to the patient over a secure network and performs the entire procedure remotely – with the same tactile feel and control they have at the bedside.” Sentante’s robotic platform is advancing through regulatory pathways for peripheral vascular interventions, with the FDA granting Breakthrough Device Designation for its stroke system. The Dundee collaboration marks the next milestone, showing how robotics can remove distance as a barrier to life-saving care.

Confidence among North West mid-sized companies remains resolute, according to new research from accounting and business advisory firm BDO. In its bi-monthly survey of over 500 mid-sized business leaders, more than two-fifths (41%) of regional businesses are confident about their growth prospects over the next 12 months, the same number as reported by BDO in June. While conditions remain difficult, the findings suggest many mid-market companies in the region are seeing out the year on a firm footing after a prolonged period of pressure and uncertainty, positioning 2026 as the year when AI investment comes to the fore. 2025 has been a year of transition, according to the Economic Engine survey, with more than two-fifths (44%) of companies now actively investing in AI and a further 53% exploring how it could support operations. The focus has shifted, from whether to adopt new tools, to how to embed them effectively across the business. For example, more than a third (38%) now use AI daily in their tax processes. Many have adjusted hiring as they rebalance operations around AI and new technologies: 68% of companies hired fewer people overall, while a smaller group (29%) maintained headcount but for different roles. Looking ahead, 2026 is expected to mark a new phase as AI reshapes workforces more visibly. Three in five (62%) businesses plan to keep overall headcount steady but change the mix of roles. A further 12% expect to increase hiring, while just over a quarter (26%) expect to hire fewer people. The figures suggest that rather than triggering job losses, AI is prompting a gradual shift in skills and responsibilities as companies integrate it more deeply into their operations. As the North West mid-market looks to consolidate in this area, attention is turning to the Autumn Budget. Regional mid-market leaders are calling for stability and a policy framework that supports investment and cost control, rather than sweeping reforms. When asked which measures would most support growth, companies prioritised practical cost relief: targeted incentives to cut energy and input costs topped the list at 26%, followed by business rates reform (24%), improved capital allowances (21%) and clearer R&D reliefs (21%). Nearly a quarter (24%) of North West mid-sized companies want a three-year moratorium on business tax changes, a signal of how highly companies value predictability. Angela Cross, regional managing partner at BDO in the North West, said: “The North West’s mid-market has absorbed several years of economic uncertainty and is now showing real resilience. Confidence is standing firm, investment in technology is becoming routine and companies are rebalancing rather than retreating." “For regional companies investing in technology and reshaping operations, the ability to plan with confidence is now critical. There is a strong desire among businesses for no further changes to taxation at the Autumn Budget to encourage investment. What the mid-market in our region needs is consistency from government: a stable policy environment that turns momentum into lasting growth.”

Europa, one of the UK’s leading distributors of electrical components and smart solutions, has been praised for its innovation, sustainability and contribution to local employment. The company welcomed Rachel Hopkins, MP for Luton South and South Bedfordshire, to its Luton head office where she met with its senior leadership team, toured the company’s Research & Development facilities, and learned more about its ambitious plans. The company has embraced innovation through custom-built product solutions, enhanced technical support for customers, and significant investment in IT infrastructure, manufacturing and testing facilities at its headquarters. Its portfolio includes smart technologies, renewable solutions, and bespoke design-and-build services, with multiple new products and range additions launching this year. Over the past decade, Europa’s workforce has also doubled to more than 80 employees, and the business has been embarking on a recruitment drive as it gears up for the next phase of strategic growth. Ms Hopkins said: “It was a pleasure to visit Europa PLC and find out more about the extensive range of services the business provides. We had great discussions around their innovative use of new technology to improve energy efficiency and safety, and the growth of the renewables industry." “They are a key local employer in our town, and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.” Sonia Freed, Managing Director at Europa, said: “Having our head office in Luton and being a major employer in the area is something we’re extremely proud of, and it was a privilege to welcome Rachel to our site." “Her visit was a great opportunity to highlight the importance of safety and innovation in the renewables sector, and we introduced Rachel to our growing number of innovative products, including our Solar Guardian and Fanton Connectors. We also discussed the importance of ensuring that, as the renewables industry grows, it does so safely." “As Europa looks ahead, the business remains focused on its long-standing commitment to quality, sustainability and service – while continuing to invest in smart and renewable technologies that will help shape the next chapter of the industry.”

Law firm DMH Stallard has announced that the firm has selected Harvey, the generative AI platform for lawyers and legal professionals following a successful pilot across multiple practice areas. DMH Stallard is an early adopter of Harvey among mid-market firms in the UK. The pilot focused on evaluating Harvey’s capabilities in streamlining legal research, document drafting, contract and data analysis. The results showed substantial efficiency gains and improvements in client service, prompting the firm to proceed with full adoption across all departments. Richard Pollins (image attached), Managing Partner, said: “We have invested heavily in technology in recent years, and the implementation of Harvey AI is a natural continuation of that." “By combining cutting edge AI technology with human expertise, over time we are confident that our clients will benefit from improvements in client service and value for money without losing the value of personal interaction and judgement." “Our incredible team at DMH Stallard are excited about using cutting edge AI technology to deliver exceptional service to clients.” Harvey is a leading legal AI platform designed to increase efficiency for professionals in the legal sector. Harvey AI’s platform will be deployed across DMH Stallard in phases to support a wide range of legal tasks and workflows. The decision aligns with the firm’s broader digital strategy to embrace emerging technologies that enhance client outcomes and empower legal teams. John Haddock, Chief Business Officer at Harvey said: "We are thrilled to see DMH Stallard come on board as customers after a rigorous evaluation process. It’s great to see mid-market firms leading the way on AI adoption and innovating on behalf of their clients to provide exceptional service.” Photo: Richard Pollins, Managing Partner,

Tax experts from a leading chartered accountancy and business advice firm are set to unpack the key announcements and implications of the forthcoming Budget at a free-of-charge breakfast event. HWB Chartered Accountants is inviting individuals, business leaders, charity representatives and other decision makers to its Budget Breakfast at the Axis Conference Centre on the University of Southampton Science Park. Taking place on Friday 28 November 2025, just two days after the Chancellor’s Budget speech to Parliament, it is an opportunity to understand and discuss the business-related aspects of the government’s major financial statement of the year. HWB’s Tax Director Gemma Hedges, who advises on a range of issues including Inheritance Tax and Trusts & Estates, said: “We hope this will be an insightful event that will explore how the latest measures from the Chancellor could affect companies and organisations, personal finances and the wider economy." “We will digest and discuss any changes that Rachel Reeves makes to tax, investment incentives, business reliefs and so on in layman’s terms so you can understand how the measures will impact you.” Gemma will be joined by HWB colleagues including Senior Tax Managers Alan Rolfe and Steven Martin and Tax Manager Joe Wilson. As well as a summary of the headline announcements in Budget and their practical implications, the breakfast will feature a question-and-answer session with the tax specialists and offer an opportunity to network with fellow attendees. For more information and to register, visit here. HWB Chartered Accountants, founded in 1985 and based at Chandler’s Ford, near Southampton, provides business and tax advice.

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the signing of prolific try-scorer Connor Wynne on a one-year deal! The 24-year-old arrives at Bartercard Odsal Stadium for a second spell in the red, amber and black – having previously spent time at the club during the 2023 season. Wynne made seven appearances during that stint, which was sandwiched with spells at Hull FC and Featherstone Rovers – with the outside back scoring 35 tries in 47 appearances for the Flat Cappers. Now with eyes on a second opportunity in Super League, Wynne has spoken of his hunger to make his mark in Bradford colours. Connor Wynne said: “It feels really good to be back, it's been a goal of mine to get back to the top and to especially do it with a team that I've already been at, where I loved my time. The club was great with me, everyone around the club, I respected them, they respected me and I just couldn't speak ill of them so to get the chance to come back, it was a no-brainer." “2023 was the year that made me love the game. I was close to quitting that year because I suffered with injuries and things like that. I'm just really keen to build myself again back in Super League and this club made me definitely want to play rugby again back then." “I'm keen to learn off Kurt [Haggerty]. He's been at the top coaching for a reason because he knows his stuff and we've all just got to buy into it. The chats I have had with him have been good but I've just got to work hard and get myself in that team. You don't want to just go into a team knowing you're going to get a spot and we've got some great players who they're going to push me on and I'm going to push them on. It's always good to have competition, but I'm sure the best man will win." “I think I'm a lot more professional now. I probably took it for granted back when I was at Hull FC and I didn't realise how good I had it, but now it's a chance to prove myself again. I've got a lot to prove so I'm really keen to work on myself a lot more, making sure I'm the most professional player I can be. I've grown up a lot since then so I just want to make sure I'm a true professional and constantly working hard." “A few years ago I didn't really think I'd get the chance to come back and now I have. I'm going to take the chance with two hands and not let go of it. I'm going to put my best foot forward and show everyone what I'm about. I'm not the finished article, there's still a lot more improvement in me and I'm ready to show people what I'm about." “I want to create some history with this club. There’s already a great history but we want to build on that history, it'll be special and to play alongside some players that we've got." Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “The most important thing with Connor was how desperate he was to get back to the Bulls and the more I have watched his game and studied him, I’ve seen there’s a really good player in there. He’s powerful with how he carries the ball, he’s aggressive in his contact and he’s hard to handle for a man who isn’t overly big." “He’s extremely powerful, explosive and he really wanted to come to the Bulls which was an opportunity I was willing to give him and I’m really looking forward to working with Connor.”

Family-owned glass packaging specialist, Croxsons, will make its first appearance at the Vineyard & Winery Show on Stand J21, showcasing its impressive range of wine bottles and closures. The event takes place on 19 November 2025 at the Kent County Showground. With over 150 years of experience in supplying glass packaging to some of the world’s leading brands, Croxsons understands the vital role that a well-chosen bottle and closure play in defining a wine’s identity. The company offers complete packaging solutions, from concept and design through to decoration and delivery, helping producers create standout products that capture the essence of their brand and vineyard. Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to meet representatives and explore Croxsons’ collection of premium wine bottles and carefully matched closures, designed to suit every style and scale of production. The team will also be on hand to discuss bespoke options, sustainable packaging choices and the benefits of partnering with a single, trusted supplier. Croxsons’ CEO, Tim Croxson said: “Croxsons was founded working closely with winemakers and we’re excited to continue that relationship through The Vineyard & Winery Show, helping them tell their brand stories through packaging."