eCapital UK, one of the UK's leading independent providers of invoice finance and asset-based lending solutions for growing SMEs, has appointed Camilla Woodrow as its new Head of HR, strengthening its focus on people and talent as the business grows. In her new role, Camilla will lead the HR function across the UK, partnering with the Senior Leadership Team to align the company’s people strategy and plans with its commercial objectives. She will have responsibility for the full employee lifecycle, with a focus on supporting business growth, and creating an exceptional colleague experience. Camilla brings 25 years of experience in Human Resources, including two decades in senior HR leadership roles where she has developed and delivered people strategies to support organisational success. Having worked with organisations including Glide UK and The HR Dept, she has extensive experience shaping and delivering people strategies that support business growth and performance. She has led cultural change, developed talent, and built high-performing teams. The appointment follows a period of sustained growth and success for eCapital UK. Over the past three years, the business has increased funds advanced to clients by 46%, grown its client base by more than 32%, and expanded into larger, more sophisticated funding facilities of up to £6 million, helping more small and mid-sized businesses access the flexible working capital they need to invest, expand and build resilience. As the business has grown, so has the importance of attracting, developing and retaining the talent needed to support its ambitions. Commenting on her appointment, Camilla Woodrow, Head of HR at eCapital UK, said: “eCapital UK is an ambitious and growing business with a strong focus on its people and its future. I’m delighted to be joining the team at such an exciting time and look forward to working with colleagues across the business to build on the great foundations already in place. My focus will be on ensuring our people strategy continues to support our commercial ambitions, while creating an environment where colleagues can thrive and deliver their best work.” Lisa Cleaver, Chief Operating Officer at eCapital Commercial Finance UK, said: “We are delighted to welcome Camilla to eCapital UK at a pivotal stage in our growth journey. Her breadth of HR leadership experience and proven ability to develop effective people strategies will be invaluable as we continue to scale our business." "Camilla’s appointment reinforces our commitment to investing in our people and ensuring we have the right culture, capabilities and support in place to achieve our ambitions.”

“Community Routes is removing barriers and opening doors, and I’m proud to support that mission.” – Nikki Tapper MBE Helping emerging artists get a foothold in the creative industries is something former award-winning BBC radio presenter Nikki Tapper MBE is passionate about. Tapper has been announced as one of the mentors for Birmingham’s Community Routes programme, commencing next week. Now a successful presenter, events host and podcaster, she will be bringing a lifetime of experience in broadcasting and education, to inspire young creatives, many from diverse backgrounds as part of the multi-platform residency. Community Routes is also designed to remove barriers that stop young people entering creative careers - particularly those who are developing their craft outside mainstream pathways. Organised by Punch Records, the intensive week-long programme offers a new FREE programme packed with workshops, mentorship and a residency dedicated to equip the next generation of young creative professionals in the West Midlands with the skills and support that they need to thrive in the Creative Industries. It is particularly supporting the next wave of DJs, vocalists, broadcasters, photographers and digital artists. A familiar voice on local radio for more than two decades, Nikki has fronted a host of regional shows, including Gospel Lounge, Chat Back and, more recently, Sunday Night With Nikki Tapper. She is now continuing to make a name for herself as an established events and awards host, trainer and facilitator through her company Nikki Tapper Ltd. Last year she received an MBE for Services to Broadcasting and the Community of the West Midlands, recognising more than a quarter of a century working in both the broadcasting and teaching fields. Nikki said: “I'm really excited to be a mentor and part of CR 2026. Young people are being given the opportunity to develop their creative skills while exploring entrepreneurship, enterprise, and the professional etiquette that helps them thrive — all alongside vital support around wellbeing and resilience." “As someone who has worked for many years as a radio presenter, broadcaster and interviewer, I know how powerful it is when young people from diverse, global majority backgrounds are given space to grow. Too often, they don’t get the same access to opportunities within the creative industries - opportunities to build their own businesses, understand the professional landscape and develop at the same level, or even higher, than their peers." “If I can come alongside a young person who can benefit from my experience and help them step confidently into their future, then I’m truly blessed to play a part. Community Routes is removing barriers and opening doors, and I’m proud to support that mission.” Nikki will be delivering three one-to-one, teaching presenting, interviewing, and storytelling techniques while getting them hands-on with studio equipment. The sessions will provide guidance on soft skills essential for gaining a foothold in the radio broadcast industry and help them to build their professional, networking techniques, taking first steps towards building a strong professional network. She will also support the development of young artists' resilience, self-reliance, and industry understanding. The programme, which is supported by The National Lottery Fund, culminates, in Northampton on August 29th, with The Shambala Festival. Bradley Morrison, Head of Marketing and Communications at Punch Records, said: “Community Routes is a huge opportunity for aspiring creatives in Birmingham. The residency - if you’re one of the chosen ones on this year’s programme - is a chance to fast track your skills, learn from the best and hottest creatives in the industry and get noticed within your chosen industry. It is a major springboard for your career.” For 2026, Community Routes participants will have the opportunity to take their work onto a major independent festival platform, with a paid performance opportunity at Shambala Festival 2026. Find out more about Community Routes visit here.

From smartphone navigation to climate research, the demand for fast, high-quality satellite data continues to grow. A new facility for this future technology is now being developed in Berlin: German-American space company Planet Labs is building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for satellite components and telescopes in Berlin-Charlottenburg. Drees & Sommer, a global consulting company specializing in real estate, infrastructure, and industry, is providing project management services for the ambitious project. The new site will comprise approximately 5,000 square meters of laboratory, cleanroom and office space for the assembly, integration and testing of next-generation satellites. At the heart of the facility are highly specialized ISO Class 6 and Class 7 cleanrooms. Here, Planet Labs will manufacture and test high-tech components for its new Pelican satellites. The technology delivers high-resolution imagery at short intervals, providing users with near real-time access to critical data. This makes changes on Earth visible much faster – whether in the case of natural disasters, environmental developments or infrastructure projects. The level of detail enables users to detect damage to bridges, dams and energy infrastructure, for example. The data also helps document marine pollution and assess the impacts of climate change, wildfires and flooding. Martin Polak, Managing Director of Planet Labs Germany commented: “The expansion of our European headquarters through the creation of our new European Space Hub in Berlin marks an important milestone in Planet’s European growth strategy. Our European Space Hub brings together satellite manufacturing, engineering, mission operations and business operations under one roof. This will help us turn innovation into operational capabilities more quickly while strengthening Europe’s long-term technological and industrial capabilities in space.” Teamwork across continents The project is highly complex. To create the new manufacturing and laboratory environment, international project teams in Germany and the United States are working closely together across multiple time zones. Drees & Sommer is responsible for overall project management, including cost, schedule and quality management throughout all project phases. Its services also include technical consulting, coordination of all planning and construction stakeholders, and interface management to ensure optimal alignment of the laboratory, cleanroom and production requirements. Rojda Emre, Team Lead at Drees & Sommer said: “With highly specialized facilities and ambitious timelines, success depends on the precise coordination of all parties involved. Our experience with laboratory, cleanroom and high-tech manufacturing projects ensures that ambitious quality targets, project schedules and technical requirements are brought together successfully.” A good example is the cleanroom environment: Drees & Sommer coordinates all trades to ensure that factors such as humidity, temperature and particle concentration consistently meet the stringent requirements of satellite manufacturing. This enables Planet Labs to assemble and test components such as sensors, electronics and optical systems, including telescopes and cameras, under tightly controlled conditions before they begin their journey into space. Berlin as a hub for the European space industry Founded in 2010 in San Francisco by three former NASA scientists, Planet Labs is now listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The company has maintained its European headquarters on Berlin’s Kurfürstendamm for more than a decade. It is now expanding its workforce in the German capital from around 150 employees by adding up to 70 new positions. In 2025, Planet Labs signed a €240 million satellite intelligence contract with the German federal government. Planet Labs operates the world’s largest Earth observation satellite fleet. Applications range from monitoring supply chains and agricultural land to analyzing refugee movements during humanitarian crises. The satellite data can also support civil security and defense applications, including the identification of military installations. One notable example dates back to August 2022, when Planet Labs’ satellite data helped identify the causes of the massive fish die-off in the Oder River. Using the data, experts discovered elevated chlorophyll concentrations near the Polish city of Opole as early as the previous month. “The earlier environmental changes are detected, the sooner appropriate countermeasures can be taken,” emphasizes Martin Polak. “Our satellites provide the critical information needed to make that possible.” New markets: The race for space Planet Labs’ project in Berlin reflects a broader global trend. As demand grows for satellites, launch systems and robotics for space missions, the New Space economy is emerging as a major growth market. According to a recent Roland Berger study, the global space market is expected to quadruple by 2040, growing from around €500 billion today to €2 trillion. The study identifies investments in highly specialized facilities such as the one in Berlin as a prerequisite for Europe to secure its long-term position in the market. It argues that Germany will need a new mindset and greater enthusiasm for the opportunities offered by New Space if it is to compete successfully with the United States and China. “The New Space industry requires highly specialized facilities, including cleanrooms and laboratories that meet the industry's most demanding standards,” says Rojda Emre. “With our expertise, we are committed to helping shape these future-ready environments – from site analysis and concept development through to implementation and commissioning.” Photo: From wildfires to marine pollution: Planet Labs will manufacture satellites in Berlin-Charlottenburg that make global changes visible in near real time. © Planet Labs Germany GmbH

Lidl GB has announced a £500 million sourcing investment in the British berry industry, pledging to increase the volume of UK-grown berries amid rising demand for healthy, home-grown produce. The investment reflects the value of sourcing contracts with British-based berry suppliers over the next five years, with the discounter signing new five-year agreements to give its suppliers greater certainty to invest and expand at a time of rising costs and unpredictable weather. With Lidl GB now the UK’s fifth largest supermarket, announcement underscores its continued focus on building long-term partnerships with British suppliers to offer its customers the quality locally sourced products they demand. It also reflects the discounter's significant over index in the category after reporting the largest year-on-year increase in berry sales last year and being recognised at the British Berry Retailer of the Year. According to the supermarket, there is a growing demand for fresh, healthy foods among shoppers. Blueberries in particular are becoming one of Britain’s fastest-growing fruit categories, with Lidl seeing sales of British blueberries surge by more than 200% over the last three years. Blackberries are also seeing strong growth, increasing by almost 93% over the same period, while Lidl GB’s Deluxe Blush Strawberries saw a 50% volume increase last year. Richard Bourns, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl GB, said: "We are backing British farming with a £500million vote of confidence in our British berry growers. By extending our long-term agreements, we’re providing the security suppliers need to build a resilient future." “It is our clear ambition to be the first-choice partner for British growers. By building a framework providing long-term security, we enable our growers to confidently invest, innovate and scale alongside us. And by investing in these partnerships we are making fresh, healthy produce more accessible to our customers - offering the best British berries at unbeatable prices.” Commenting on the announcement, Tom Busby, Director from Dearnsdale Farm said: “We have been farming Dearnsdale Farm in Staffordshire for 100 years, producing quality British produce to feed the nation. Dearnsdale Fruit is proud to have a strong, open, collaborative relationship with Lidl GB with a focus to provide Lidl’s customers the best quality, affordable, sustainable berries in the market today." "Now we have a long-term agreement with Lidl GB, this will give us as a British grower the opportunity and confidence to continue to invest and adapt in the everchanging world of berries into the next century.” British Berry Growers Chair, Nick Marston, said: “Over the last three years, we have been impressed by the increase in Lidl’s British berry volumes, from around 11,500 tonnes in 2023 to more than 15,700 tonnes in 2025 – an increase of more than 36% in just two seasons. Across strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, Lidl now accounts for around 12.6% of all British berry tonnage sold through British Berry Growers members." “This kind of retailer investment and commitment to British berries is exactly what our growers need and, as we head into another British berry season, that continued support for homegrown produce is more important than ever.” This long-term sourcing builds on Lidl GB's landmark £30 billion sourcing commitment to the British food and farming industry by 2030, to back a resilient, ethical, sustainable British supply chain.

eCapital UK, one of the UK's leading independent providers of invoice finance and asset-based lending solutions for growing SMEs, has appointed John Nelson as Managing Director, UK, as it continues to expand the business. The appointment follows a period of sustained growth and success for eCapital UK. Over the past three years, the business has increased funds advanced to clients by 46%, grown its client base by more than 32%, and expanded into larger, more sophisticated funding facilities of up to £6 million, helping more businesses access the flexible working capital they need to invest, expand and build resilience. John joins eCapital with almost four decades’ experience in financial services, having held senior leadership roles across Lloyds Banking Group, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Investec. This includes almost two decades specialising in receivables finance and asset-based lending. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership positions spanning corporate banking, risk, portfolio management and commercial leadership, building a strong reputation for delivering sustainable growth and leading high-performing teams. John will assume the role of Managing Director, UK, working alongside David Tilling, who will transition from CEO to become Executive Chair over the coming months. The planned transition will ensure continuity of leadership, with David focusing on the long-term strategic direction of the business, its culture and its partnership with eCapital’s US parent company. John will lead the day-to-day operations of the UK business, working with the executive team to deliver the company's growth ambitions, enhance client experience and drive continued growth across its specialist funding solutions. As part of the leadership transition, John will also join the UK Board. The appointment comes at a time when many SMEs face a widening funding gap, with traditional lenders retrenching from parts of the market and businesses increasingly seeking more flexible sources of working capital. David Tilling, Executive Chair at eCapital UK, commented: "John is an exceptional leader with extensive experience across financial services and a deep understanding of the receivables finance and asset-based lending market. His strategic insight, commercial expertise and collaborative leadership style make him the ideal person to lead the UK business through its next chapter. His appointment reflects continuity rather than change. Our strategy, commitment to the market and focus on delivering exceptional outcomes for clients and introducers remain firmly in place." “We’ve built tremendous momentum in recent years by supporting more businesses and expanding the scale and sophistication of the funding solutions we provide. As I transition into the role of Executive Chair, I do so with complete confidence that John and the leadership team will build on this success and deliver the next stage of our growth strategy." John Nelson, Managing Director at eCapital UK added: "I am delighted to be joining eCapital UK at such an exciting point in its journey. The business has established an excellent reputation in the market, underpinned by a talented team, strong client relationships and the backing of a strong parent." "There is a significant opportunity to continue growing our presence in the UK by helping more businesses access the flexible funding they need to thrive. Developing relationships with valued introducers will also remain a key focus as the business continues to expand. I look forward to working with colleagues across the business to build on the company's success and deliver the next phase of growth."

Working collaboratively with their very own design team, Vogue Williams has launched her own 6-rug collection with one of the UK and Ireland’s leading online homeware brands, Kukoon. After viewing hundreds of rugs, Vogue personally narrowed down her collection to just six, choosing a combination of both classic and trending styles with an aim to suit every type of home. Four of the rugs are even washable, making them perfect for pets, kids and busy lifestyles. The Kukoon x Vogue Williams collection launches at 9am on Friday 14th August, with prices starting from as little as just £30. Speaking on her own home style and the collection, Vogue says: “I keep coming back to one thing that just ties a room together... A rug. Genuinely. Get the rug right and the whole room just lands.” “I’ve created a collection of 6 rugs with Kukoon that will transform your space. Honestly? I am so proud of them. Every single one brings something different to your home.” Kukoon is a family-run brand led by co-founder Clare Vallely, who, alongside her brother Paul, transformed their father’s rug market business into one of the UK and Ireland’s leading online homeware brands. Speaking on the collaboration, Vallely shares: “I have always admired Vogue’s interior design taste. After organically coming across images of Vogue’s gorgeous revamped Irish home I knew I had to reach out and see if there was a chance to collaborate." "Vogue has an incredibly keen eye for home interiors and that really shone through in her choices for this collection. We’re so proud of this Kukoon X Vogue Williams launch and can’t wait to share it with our customers.”

Ballroom dance fans living at a Dorset care home are set to enjoy an exclusive view of rehearsals for a glittering community dance competition. As headline partner for Forest Holme Hospice’s award-winning Strictly Extravaganza, Colten Care will host selected practice sessions in the run-up to the final in January 2027. They will take place at the provider’s art deco-themed Poole care home Bourne View in the autumn and winter giving residents there a close-up opportunity to see routines under development being performed live in their lounge. Residents at fellow Colten Care homes in and around the BCP conurbation will be offered the chance to come along too. Strictly Extravaganza is Forest Holme’s biggest annual fundraising event, designed to support the charity’s specialist palliative and end-of-life care services across Dorset. Last year’s contest raised £80,000. There is added interest for Colten Care this year with Senior Marketing & Events Manager Laura Davis stepping up as one of ten amateur contestants who will each partner with a professional dancer. Laura said: “Strictly Extravaganza is all about saying yes to something that feels a little daunting, knowing it’s all for an amazing cause. There’ll definitely be plenty of laughs and a few aching muscles along the way but if it helps raise money for Forest Holme it’ll be worth every step.” Among the Bourne View residents set to enjoy the practice sessions is Irene Whyment, who said: “It will be lovely to welcome these talented dancers to come in and perform just for us. We’re really looking forward to it.” Bourne View was also the venue for the launch of this year’s contest, an evening that brought together contestants, sponsors, Forest Holme team members and supporters from Colten Care. The training programme for contestants is being led by Championship dancer Oliver Beardmore. In the coming months he will provide expert guidance as the ‘Strictly stars’ progress their intensive rehearsals in styles such as waltz, tango, foxtrot, quickstep and jive. Claire Cooper, Events and Challenges Manager at Forest Holme Hospice Charity, said: “Over the next six months the amateur contestants, all drawn from the local community, will work incredibly hard with their professional partners, learning routines that are completely outside most of their comfort zones while raising vital funds to support our work. We can’t wait to watch their journeys unfold.” Strictly Extravaganza made its debut in 2023 and was this year crowned Special Event of the Year at the national charity sector Emma Awards. The finals night for this year’s contest takes place at Lighthouse Poole on Saturday 23 January 2027. After a drinks reception and three-course gala dinner, the evening will see the ten couples compete for the coveted glitterball trophy before a 350-strong audience and a panel of judges from the dance world.

Just four years after launching the Tees Better Future Fund, Tees is proud to celebrate a major milestone. In 2026, the fund has now awarded more than £100,000 in grants to local community initiatives, helping charities and community organisations create lasting change across Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire. Launched in 2022, the Tees Better Future Fund was created to build on the firm's long-standing commitment to supporting the communities where its people live and work. Working in partnership with Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, the fund provides grants of up to £5,000 to projects that promote learning and education and improve health and wellbeing. Reaching £100,000 in grants awarded in just four years is an important achievement, but it is only part of the story. Every grant represents a project that has opened doors, improved lives and strengthened local communities. From helping young people develop new skills and confidence, to supporting physical and mental wellbeing, the fund continues to back organisations making a real difference where it matters most. Janine Collier, Co-Head of ESG at Tees, said: "For us, reaching £100,000 is about much more than the number. It represents hundreds of people whose lives have been positively impacted through the incredible work of local charities and community organisations. We are immensely proud of what the Better Future Fund has achieved since its launch in 2022, but there is no stopping us yet. We know there are many more inspiring organisations doing vital work across our communities, and we look forward to continuing to support them for many years to come." The Better Future Fund reflects Tees' wider commitment to being a responsible business. Alongside volunteering, fundraising and pro bono work, the fund helps deliver meaningful, long-term investment into the communities the firm has served for generations. Since the first grants were awarded, the fund has supported a growing range of projects that improve opportunities for children, young people and families, encourage learning, tackle isolation and promote healthier lives. The partnership with Cambridgeshire Community Foundation has helped ensure funding reaches organisations where it can have the greatest impact. Viv Atkinson, Deputy CEO at Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, said: "Having worked alongside Tees on the Better Future Fund since its inception, it has been inspiring to see the firm's genuine, deep-rooted commitment to supporting local communities. Reaching £100,000 in grants is a fantastic milestone, but what also stands out is the way Tees has engaged employees at every level in shaping that impact - from fundraising to deciding where those funds go, helping direct support to the communities where Tees' people live and work across Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire." "Tees understands that meaningful, long-term community impact starts with funding, whilst also being committed to offering additional support such as volunteering and pro bono work. For Tees, the relationship doesn't end when a grant is awarded - it is often just the beginning, with employees continuing to champion and support organisations long after funding has been provided." "We are incredibly proud of what this partnership has achieved and excited about the difference it will continue to make in the years ahead." As the fund enters its fifth year, Tees remains committed to growing its impact and supporting even more organisations that share its vision of creating better futures for local people. The £100,000 milestone is a moment to celebrate, but it is also a reminder that there is much more to do. Together with its partners, charities and community organisations, Tees will continue investing in projects that help people thrive and strengthen the communities it is proud to be part of.

British engineering giant JCB has set a new world land speed record of 406.320 mph with its hydrogen-powered JCB Hydromax. The car recorded the average speed 400.623 mph in its first run this morning across the Bonneville Salt Flats, and 412.135 mph on its second run, giving the average of 406.320 mph - the fastest a hydrogen internal combustion car has ever travelled. Driven by Wing Commander Andy Green OBE, the twin engine, 32-foot car completed the two runs required under FIA rules - one in each direction within an hour - comfortably beating the previous FIA-officiated hydrogen internal combustion benchmark of 185.5 mph set by the BMW H2R in 2004. The record is subject to official ratification by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport. In doing so, JCB Hydromax surpassed the 350.092 mph world diesel land speed record set by JCB Dieselmax — also driven by Green, on the same salt, in August 2006. Twenty years on, JCB has beaten its own benchmark with an engine that produces no CO₂ at the tailpipe. The speed also exceeds the 303 mph hydrogen fuel cell mark — making JCB Hydromax the fastest hydrogen-powered vehicle of any kind in history. The record - set in the Category A, Group XIV - Class 7 FIA World Flying Record Start Land Speed Record - was set using two of JCB’s own production-based hydrogen digger engines, producing a combined 1,600 bhp and manufactured at the company’s engine factory in Foston, Derbyshire, UK. They are the same engines now powering JCB machines and equipment rolling off production lines in the UK as part of the company’s £100 million hydrogen programme. JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford has led JCB’s hydrogen engine project and came up with the idea of a hydrogen world land speed record bid early last year. Lord Bamford said: “Twenty years ago we came to Bonneville with JCB Dieselmax and showed what British engineering could do with diesel power. Today we have done it again — this time with engines powered by hydrogen. This record was set by production-based engines, the same engines powering JCB diggers right now. That is the point of JCB Hydromax: it shows hydrogen works, and it works today at the highest level with zero emissions.” Andy Green said: “Bonneville is the spiritual home of the world land speed record, and JCB Hydromax has just written itself into that history. The car was terrific — stable, strong and fast." "Setting a world land speed record with hydrogen power, twenty years after Dieselmax, is a huge privilege. This record is a huge achievement by a world class team and superb technology.” JCB Engineering Director Ryan Ballard, who is leading the project, said: “This record belongs to the engineering team which took a hydrogen digger engine and made it the fastest of its kind on earth. This has been an amazing challenge from the outset of the it being set in February last year. We came here fully prepared, and the car delivered.” President of the FIA, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, said: “This is a truly historic milestone for motorsport showcasing how innovation, performance, speed, and sustainability can go hand in hand." “Motorsport has always been a catalyst for technological progress pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This new land speed record continues this tradition, showcasing the potential of hydrogen combustion for the future of sustainable mobility." “For over 100 years, the FIA has proudly played a central role officiating land speed record attempts. I would like to thank our Member Club, the Automobile Competition Committee for the United States, for their support during this record attempt and offer my congratulations to Lord Bamford, Andy Green OBE, and to everyone involved in this remarkable achievement.” Wing Commander Andy Green is the fastest man on earth at 763.035 mph, the only person to break the sound barrier on land, and was the driver of JCB Dieselmax when it set the FIA world diesel land speed record of 350.092 mph at Bonneville in August 2006. That record still stands. Last week the JCB Hydromax broke through the 368.347 mph barrier at the world's leading land speed racing event. The run was completed as part of the Southern California Timing Association's (SCTA) renowned Bonneville Speed Week, setting a new SCTA record in the Blown Gas Streamliner class (AA/BGS, 500+ cubic inches) of 368.347 mph, a major milestone in the car’s development programme. The record comes ahead of the opening of JCB’s new $500 million factory in San Antonio, Texas, which will employ 1,500 people manufacturing machines for the US market. JCB has long pushed the limits of speed and in addition to the JCB Dieselmax success, the JCB Fastrac became the world’s fastest tractor at 135.191 mph in 2019, and in 2014 the JCB GT set the backhoe loader record at 72.58 mph.

The ongoing war in Iran which is pushing up the cost of borrowing for UK SMEs (small and medium enterprises) may be the final nail in the coffin for some businesses, says a sector specialist. Mark Barrie, Head of Debt Advisory at UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets, believes the war – which began in February and continues sporadically – is likely to prompt unexpected interest rates rises which will also curb investment. He said: “It is a tough time for SME businesses what with this and the knock-on effects of all the other pressures they are currently facing adding up to a big squeeze on margins and it could well lead to casualties.. I speak to business owners every day of the week – with sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, haulage, hospitality and construction particularly affected – and there is a general feeling of uncertainty.” Azets is the UK’s specialist business advisor to SMEs which make up 99% of the UK’s 5.7m businesses and employ more than half the workforce. Mark said prior to the war it was believed Bank of England (BoE) base rate reductions would have been scheduled for 2026 with the rate likely to have been around 3% by the end of the year or the start of 2027. “Not only has that been put on hold, but most economists and commentators are suggesting that there may be one or two hikes the other way from the current rate which has been held at 3.75% since January." “Therefore, many people either planning or considering whether to take finance would have believed the cost of borrowing to be coming down. It is not surprising that there is a reduced appetite for debt which matches the fewer lending options being available." “The worst case scenario now is that we are going to see some casualties, some businesses which will be seen in the insolvency and administration numbers." “Some just think that loading additional debt – to take on new projects or new staff or for marketing or whatever else – is the answer out of this, but some of them just can’t afford the debt they are acquiring and this will be the final nail in the coffin." “Others will argue that if they do not do it the business is finished anyway so it’s one last throw of the dice, but some shouldn’t be rolling the dice – they should be calling it a day or streamlining the business.” Mark has advised SMEs on matters such as new strategic initiatives, growth and expansion, as well as raising new and additional funding for more than 25 years and also has a wealth of experience helping those businesses in distress and those experiencing trading difficulties. He said one positive aspect was that many of the post-Covid loans SMEs took out – generally on six-year terms – would be running off now, which was good news is that there would be reduced loan repayments to find. “However, if they are looking to now secure new finance it will be more expensive that previously because base rate was 0.1% or 0.5% and it’s now 3.75%. This will make SMEs think deeper and longer before they make the leap with investment – some will put it off, some will do less, some will not do it at all." “For the majority of commercial businesses they will be on a variable base rate or a tracked product linked with the base rate. Not many take fixed rates, so that is going to affect them and be front of mind when they consider whether to go ahead with certain projects.” Mark added that increased funding costs would be added to the myriad other pressures currently being faced by SMEs – including rapid rises in fuel costs, increased employer National Insurance contributions, new business rates, pension contributions, minimum wage increases, higher energy costs, supply chain issues and continuing cautious consumer spending. “Anyone in textiles or manufacturing or whose goods go through the Strait of Hormuz are also being hit by delays and container prices have gone up – which is what we saw post-Covid – and the cost of air freight has increased as well." “Also, the high cost of fuel in the UK is affecting, particularly, logistics and haulage companies and also anyone who relies on those sectors to get their supplies or their product moving.” The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) increased 6% to US$2,712 per 40ft container in late May, mainly due to higher freight rates on the Asia to Europe trade route. This was the highest figure since July 2025, although still less than the 12-month high of $3,543 in June 2025. A survey from the British Chambers of Commerce has revealed that 80% of firms report an existing or expected impact from the Iran conflict, including energy price increases, shipping disruption and rises in raw material costs. The manufacturing sector was seeing the biggest impact, with 68% of firms already affected by the unrest and 23% expecting an impact. Three-quarters of businesses expected their energy bills to increase over the next 12 months, with most expecting the rise to be by more than 20%, and over a third (36%) of firms said they were expecting difficulties paying their energy bills over the next 12 months. Mark added: “As a debt advisor we are saying to businesses to lift up the bonnet and look underneath at the engine of the business and see what the forecasts and cashflows look like." “That is never going to change as sensible advice for SMEs to really do some financial due diligence behind things and analysis of where their business is and what it can afford. If they can look at that, by the time they approach a lender or an adviser they have got that information to hand and will have a good indication of how the future lies." “Of course, businesses should remain vigilant and any with financial worries or who are actually in distress should seek professional advice as quickly as possible to give them the best chance of survival and recovery.”

A Nottinghamshire motor dealership has gone viral after stepping up its social media content and clocking up millions of views for its light-hearted videos. From showroom sprints to musical-theatre flair and impressive acrobatics, NK Motors has proven that car sales social media content does not have to stay in the slow lane. The business, which operates across Chilwell, Long Eaton, and Derby Pride Park, says its online audience has grown rapidly since it brought marketing in-house and gave its team the creative freedom to produce what it openly admits is ‘wacky, weird and wonderful’ content that steers away from traditional motor trade promotion. Sanj Kumar, managing director of NK Motors, said: “We wanted our social media to reflect the energy, enthusiasm and personality of our teams across the business. What is being achieved resonates with our existing customers, who already praise us for our friendly, forward-thinking attitude." “Team members are being recognised locally for their part in the posts and the content is drawing in new customers with some even asking if they will feature in content during their visit to the showroom.” The team manages the full digital ecosystem, including content for all social platforms and the company website. Sanj said: “Our marketing team are fully immersed in the business, with a deep understanding of the stock, people, and customer experience. This intellectual investment means they can create more relevant content, and build a stronger, more recognisable brand identity across all channels.” After moving away from traditional car sales posts, NK Motors says across all platforms, its social media content has generated about 4.6 million views this year, with thousands of new followers, around 100,000 profile visits and hundreds of enquiries linked directly to social media. Engagement has increased dramatically, with over 1,000 comments and strong interaction across posts and reels. The content is now consistently reaching new audiences, with leads increasingly generating themselves through organic visibility, and playing a direct role in bringing people into the dealership. The business has ambitious plans to continue scaling its digital presence over the coming months, with a target of reaching 10 million views this year. At the heart of the approach are digital marketer Alfie Adamson and brand ambassador Ruby Harwood. The duo’s viral handover videos have created distinctive voice, while behind-the-scenes clips and playful showroom run-arounds, have brought the show to the showroom. Alfie, who joined NK Motors shortly after Covid, has a strong understanding of the brand. He said: “We have shifted our focus toward ‘people content’, storytelling through humour, personality, and sharing the human side of dealership life with behind-the-scenes moments." "This approach has revolutionised what main dealer social media marketing looks like, with collaboration between marketing and sales helping bring campaigns and ideas to life. It has led to multiple viral moments across platforms.” One of the standout campaigns was the grand showroom opening of NK Derby, which marked a major milestone for the business and performed strongly across social platforms. Content such as the ‘silence of an EV reversing,’ used car handover videos and more recently, ‘how trustworthy are your salesmen?” are also entertaining viewers. The star of many of the videos is 24-year-old Ruby Harwood, a professionally trained musical theatre performer who joined NK Motors in March as a brand ambassador. She has combined her performance background with hospitality and social media experience to bring out-of-the-box ideas to the dealership’s channels. Ruby commented: “My personal favourite content to film is our ‘run around’ videos, where Alfie and I will think of a relevant question and literally run around to all departments for the answer. We don't take no for an answer, and my girly giggles make the grown men scared. I think that's what people find engaging." “As expected, the comment section has been a real mix. There have been so many kind and supportive messages recognising the work and effort I've put into learning about an industry that was completely new to me, and I'm incredibly grateful for that. Of course, there have also been some comments that focus on things other than the work itself, but my experience in the showroom couldn't be more different. I've been welcomed, supported, respected, and encouraged to learn by the people around me, which has been invaluable." “If anything, I hope this inspires more women to step outside their comfort zones and pursue opportunities in industries where they may feel outnumbered or inexperienced.” Ruby said: “What makes NK different is actually quite simple: young creative minds, creative freedom, a platform and a niche. Not everyone has an all-singing, dancing performer in their showroom, and I think that light, fun, happy energy might just be what the motor trade is missing.” “The future of NK is bright. That's for sure. My ambitions, as they always have been, are big and I would like to see NK Motors reach 10,000 Instagram followers by early 2027.” NK Motors says it will continue to grow its online presence with further campaigns, giveaways and event-led content over the coming months, Ruby added: “Watch this space for all things wacky, weird, and wonderful, with a chic twist, all whilst selling the product and creating a large, permanent audience." “I feel very proud of myself and the team for delivering the stats that we have so far. The growth is quick, at this point it's not about keeping up, it's about staying ahead. Whilst we have produced strong results, we know that social media is ever-changing, so getting comfortable isn't an option.” Follow NK Motors on Instagram @nk_motors

A property asset management (PAM) specialist with property consultancy Vail Williams has been promoted to associate. Emma Cooper, based in the firm’s Reading office in the Thames Valley region but with a wide-ranging role, was previously a senior surveyor. A dedicated property manager with a proven track record in property acquisition, stakeholder collaboration, budget and asset management, she is instructed by many clients across England. Her portfolio varies from industrial units, multi-let office, office parks to retail and properties where she is responsible for asset management, lease event. Prior to joining Vail Williams, she successfully managed a property portfolio for a major national charity retailer for over eight years, during which time she was involved in property and lease management – from acquisition to dilapidations and everything in-between. Emma commented: “I am pleased and humbled to have received this promotion, and I will go on giving my very best to maintain the second-to-none customer service the firm targets.” Carl Grint, who heads Vail Williams’ PAM operations nationally, said: “Emma is dedicated property manager with a proven track record in property acquisition, stakeholder collaboration, budget and asset management." “She certainly hit the ground running after joining us last year and I had no hesitation in recommending her for this promotion, which reflects the excellent and dedicated work she has completed within our PAM team." “I am now looking to her to provide ongoing leadership and share her considerable sector knowledge as the PAM team’s expansion continues at pace due to property owners seeking to gain the optimum value from their buildings and land.” Vail Williams’ Thames Valley regional managing partner David Barden said: “Emma is adept at managing diverse tasks and adapting workflows to meet organisational priorities." “She has fitted in seamlessly with the business and its growth ambition for the PAM team as well as being an absolute professional in her dealing with clients, suppliers and the commercial property sector in general – this promotion is richly deserved.” Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.