Insidethis edition
Isthe businessworld?sreputation for greed and victoryat all costsreallyfair?Dive into the reality of the driversbehind businesssuccess.
UKborrowing costs hit highest level since banking crisis Economist explains all Regional: Robots of London: Smarter communication is here
Robot s of London: Sm art er com m unicat ion is here
Gone are the days of static displays and passive advertising. Digital Signage Robot combines high-definition visual displays with interactive AI capabilities to captivate audiences in a dynamic, personalised way
Whether providing information, promoting services, or imply engaging passers-by, this robot is built to adapt to a variety of business needs
Key Features
and professional look
Built for Versatility
This Digital Signage Robot is designed to perform in various environments, from bustling retail centres and high-profile events to corporate offices and educational institutions. By combining advanced technology with intuitive usability, it enhances customer experiences while saving businesses time and resources
- Large, High-Definition Screen: Perfect for showcasing videos, images, and real-time updates with crystal-clear quality
- AI Chatbot Integration: Offers real-time interaction with customers, answering queries and guiding them to the information they need
- Autonomous Navigation: The robot moves seamlessly through spaces, making it ideal for retail, hospitality, and events.
- Customisable Appearance: Tailor the robot?s branding to suit your company?s image, ensuring a cohesive
The robot is more than just a display. It?s a conversation starter.
By leveraging AI-driven personalisation, businesses can build stronger connections with their customers and stand out in competitive markets. The innovative design and technology make it a cost-effective investment for any forward-thinking organisation
The Digital Signage Robot is now available for purchase or hire in the UK.
To learn more visit www robotsoflondon co uk or contact: sales@robotsoflondon co uk/ 0845 528
UK borrowing costs hit highest level since banking crisis Economist explains all
UK borrowing costs have risen rapidly to their highest level since the banking crisis of 2007-08, with implications for the government?s tax and spending plans Yields on gilts, as UK government bonds are called, have been rising ? and these yields are effectively the level of interest that the government pays on its borrowing.
The yield on ten-year debt hit 4 82%, the highest since 2008 And the yield on 30-year gilts rose to 5 383%on January 8, which is the highest for 27 years
Yields rise when the price of bonds fall, so an increase in yields is another way of saying that the price of bonds has fallen
But why has this happened?
It?s because of supply and demand In general, when supply increases, buyers normally face lower prices. So, higher government borrowing has increased the supply of government debt, which means that the price of bonds falls Since yields are inversely related to price, yields rise ? pushing up the cost that the government has to pay to borrow
The supply of government debt has been rising, particularly since the budget on October 30 That was when chancellor Rachel Reeves set out a significant amount of borrowing as well as tax increases in order to invest in stimulating growth and balance the books over the course of the parliament
Government borrowing will reach 4 5%of GDPin this fiscal year This is known as the budget deficit And that?s going to increase the overall amount of government debt, which is now lose to 100%of GDP
But it?s worth mentioning that the cost of borrowing has increased for other major economies too, since they face similar levels of public debt. Both the USand France are expected to run budget deficits bigger than the UK?s 4 5% For the US, analysts expect the deficit to be around 7%of GDP
The French government?s budget deficit is planned to be around 5% to 5 5%of GDP
As a result, the yield on ten-year USTreasuries has risen to 4 7%, which is just below the level for
the UK Bond investors are expecting more borrowing from the incoming Trump administration, which has pushed up borrowing costs from 3.6%in September before the presidential election
France has struggled to pass its budget measures and has seen its borrowing cost rise to the level of Greece (3 2%), a country that was rescued during the euro crisis.
Bond investors also look at interest rates and inflation to determine how much they charge to lend to the country For example, if inflation is expected to be high, then they would want a higher rate to lend in order to ensure they received their money back plus interest In other words, if inflation is 3%, then they would lend at above 3%in order to make a real return
UK inflation had slowed to its 2%target in May and June of last year, but it had risen to 2 6%in the latest figures released in December This was perhaps not surprising, but bond investors are looking ahead to what might cause higher inflation and therefore interest rates to remain higher for longer in 2025
The UK is an open economy
that imports energy, so it is subject to changes in global energy prices As such, bond investors are concerned about another commodity price spike as tensions in the Middle East continue
Also, the incoming Trump administration is expected to impose tariffs, extend tax cuts and increase government borrowing The UScould face higher inflation, which means that the Federal Reserve (the US central bank) may keep rates higher for longer
Since the USaffects global prices and sets global borrowing costs in numerous respects, bond markets are expecting that other central banks, including the Bank of England, may also slow their pace of rate cuts It means that borrowing costs would be higher for longer, which are reflected in higher bond yields
What does it mean for the UK budget?
If more money is spent on repaying debt, then the chancellor has less to spend on public services as set out in her October budget In 2023-24 more than 8%of government spending went on servicing its debt.
So if debt interest payments increase, Reeves may need to raise taxes further to balance the books in accordance with her fiscal rules ? which state that she won? t borrow to pay for day-to-day spending. Higher taxes might dampen economic growth, which also makes the UK less attractive to international investors
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is banking on economic growth, but higher borrowing costs could put her plans in jeopardy
The government already spends more than £100 billion a year on debt interest payments This is because about a quarter of UK gilts are linked to inflation, which means that interest
payments increase if inflation rises
Because inflation has been high for the past few years, the government has had to spend more on debt interest payments When the UK first issued index-linked gilts in 1981, this was the risk associated with guaranteeing that bond investors receive a real return With about one-quarter of gilts linked to inflation, the UK has the highest proportion of any large economy.
This is more than double the amount of Italy, which has 12% of its debt linked to inflation
The increase in borrowing costs is not specific to the UK. But there are reasons that bond investors are concerned about the UK and that?s why borrowing costs have risen recently All eyes will now be on Reeves to see whether spending cuts or tax rises are on her agenda as she tries to balance the books.
Linda Yueh Fellow in Economics/ Adjunct Professor of Economics, University of Oxford
Freddie Ljungberg joins NIBE UK as brand ambassador
NIBE, a global leader in manufacturing energy-efficient and sustainable climate solutions, is thrilled to announce former Arsenal and Swedish international football
star Freddie Ljungberg as its new UK brand ambassador. This partnership marks an exciting step forward in NIBE?s mission to inspire consumers to ?Take The Step?
towards energy-efficient, more sustainable homes with its market-leading heat pumps.
Freddie Ljungberg?s journey - from growing up in Vittsjo in the Skane region of Sweden, a few miles from Markaryd, the town where NIBEwas founded, to achieving global recognition as a football icon - makes this collaboration especially meaningful Beyond his sporting success, Freddie has a strong personal connection to NIBE?s history: his grandfather was an engineer with close ties to NIBEfrom its inception.
Freddie expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying: "I?m incredibly proud to join NIBEas their UK brand ambassador. This partnership feels incredibly meaningful to me, not just because of our shared Swedish roots, but also because of the personal connection I have to NIBE?s story Growing up near Markaryd, and with my grandfather being an engineer, I?ve always had a strong appreciation for innovation and technology Working with NIBEfeels like coming full circle, and I?m proud to support a brand that?s leading the way in sustainable solutions while staying true to its heritage and values"
The announcement builds on a successful 2024 for NIBE, which saw its S735 Exhaust Air Heat Pump awarded for not one, but two industry awards: ?Domestic Energy Saving Product of the Year?at the Energy Saving Awards, and ?Heat Pump of the Year?at the HVRAwards, as well as other accolades for its commitment to innovation. With the UK
market showing increased interest in sustainable heating, the partnership with Freddie Ljungberg aims to educate and inspire homeowners about the benefits of heat pumps, bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday comfort.
Paul Smith, Managing Director, NIBEUK, commented: "We are delighted to welcome Freddie to the NIBEfamily. His dedication, teamwork, and drive for excellence resonate deeply with our mission to create sustainable, energy-efficient climate solutions This partnership builds on the incredible growth and success we achieved in 2024 and takes us to the next stage of educating UKconsumers about the benefits of heat pumps Together, with Freddie?s unique voice and our innovative technology, we?re empowering more households to take the step towards a sustainable future."
NIBE?s heat pumps combine renewable energy with advanced smart technology, delivering energy-efficient solutions that reduce carbon footprints while maintaining comfort. The ?Take The Step?campaign, which launched in 2024, encourages homeowners to embrace these cutting-edge solutions and join the global movement toward more sustainable living.
Sophia The Robot
With Freddie Ljungberg?s authentic voice and strong connection to NIBE?s heritage and mission, this partnership promises to inspire UKhouseholds to explore how heat pumps can transform their homes..
Cr im e, c o m p et it io n
o r c o llab o rat io n :
W h at 's y o ur m o v e?
Isthe businessworld?sreputation for greed and victoryat all costs reallyfair?In
thisedition,
Craig Sergeant of Advance Copydivesinto
some of the more positive
driversbehind success.
It was set to be the perfect crime
In 2006, Joya Williams, a secretary at Coca Cola?s global HQin Atlanta, hatched a plan.
Stashed inside her brown Armani handbag were classified documents and a vial of a top secret new product ? one that nobody outside of the soft drinks giant?s five most senior directors even knew existed. Williams?scheme?
Sell the stolen trade secrets to Coca Cola?s sworn enemy and biggest competitor, Pepsi Her price?
Acool $1.5 million.
Now, you might think that Pepsi would have
been overjoyed at this valuable information landing in their lap for such a relatively paltry sum.
By having the inside scoop on their rival?s plans, think of the advantage they would get in the famed Cola Wars
But Williams had made a disastrous miscalculation.
On receiving an anonymised letter offering the secret goods, Pepsi immediately informed Coca Cola, who then got the FBI involved.
And when Williams finally handed her stolen vial to an FBI agent who was posing
"Competition can be fierce, but it must always be fair and legal"
DaveDeCecco,Pepsi
as a Pepsi rep, she was arrested and later sentenced to eight years behind bars
Asolicitor working on the case described Pepsi?s behaviour as, ?Good corporate citizenship leading to a successful prosecution"
Pepsi exec Dave DeCecco added, "Competition can be fierce, but it must always be fair and legal."
Surprise
It may come as a huge shock to discover that such long-standing adversaries could work so well together. But that?s the point:
Business isn? t just competition It?s cooperation and collaboration
Of course, most business collaboration doesn? t involve overcoming Hollywood-esque corporate spying, subterfuge and multimillion dollar ransoms (as exciting as that sounds). But collaboration is important to every business for one simple reason:
Growth
As the famous phrase goes, no man is an island, and the same applies in the business world So, from day one, it?s important to find the right collaborators
For example, would the high street look the same today if Michael Marks hadn? t met Thomas Spencer?Or what would multinationals be if William Procter didn? t
0 12 4 8 2 0 8 8 4 5
know James Gamble?And let?s not even get started with Saturday nights if Ant had never met Dec
But it?s more than finding the right people to work with in your business. It also means finding trusted external partners, such as logistics companies, software vendors, and so on
And those relationships often stem from one of the most crucial aspects of running a business: networking
Pipeline
Over the life cycle of any organisation, suppliers, staff and customers all come and go, so you always need to create a steady
stream of prospective collaborators by expanding your network
Most partnerships tend to be between organisations with shared or complementary goals and values. Teaming up often comes down to the basics of common decency, like honesty, transparency and reciprocation ? a far cry from the cutthroat reputation businesses have.
And sometimes, the most fruitful partnerships come from unexpected places Because who could have predicted that fast-fashion outlet Primark would have ever teamed up with lukewarm-pasty-pushers Greggs for a limited edition clothing range? Not only that, but it would also be a massive success, selling out in record time?
All types of collaborations are out there You just need to find each other
Networks
There are many ways a brilliant business relationship can blossom
It could be through a recommendation, word of mouth, advertising, positive online reviews and more
But nothing beats meeting people in person, making eye contact and connecting on a human level. So where can this happen?
One of the most cost-efficient, convenient and enjoyable ways is through business clubs and networking events
Business clubs do the hard work for you by bringing together like-minded people who can help your organisation grow The best ones, such as Regent Business Club, offer a wide range of services ? both online and in person ? and give you easy access to people in lots of different industries.
At their networking events, you get to hear insights, advice and the enthralling histories of some of the business world?s biggest successes, which you can learn from and put into practice at your own company
And not forgetting that the events are the perfect opportunity to meet people, share stories and build long-standing bonds that can help you grow your business.
Remember, networking, collaboration and focusing on business growth often means
playing the long game Yet business clubs, online platforms and networking events can help make the game move much quicker ? and for less.
Opportunity
Such long-term thinking is something that Pepsi and Coca Cola have always understood perfectly In their case, they collaborate indirectly Their joint dominance in the market edges out smaller challengers while they spur each other on to innovate.
It?s a complex relationship, but Pepsi and Coke need each other
And that?s something that the wannabe-master-criminal Joya Williams didn? t realise, which meant that despite her heist, she failed in finding her shortcut to quick riches
Instead, the business world was the winner Pepsi boosted its reputation by acting with integrity, and Coca Cola saved its trade secrets
Of course, that?s not to say that you now need to work closely with your biggest competitor and challenger.
But it does show us how great collaboration can happen in the most unusual ways
You just need to keep your eyes open for the right opportunity. The good news?
Regent Business Club helps bring them right to you
Document management company shar es cyber pr edi ct i ons f or 2025
By Paul Day, managing director of award-winning document management company Filestream, which supports organisations to keep their sensitive documents safe.
t will come as no surprise that the world of technology, AI and the internet will keep on evolving at pace.
In so many ways that is a fantastic aspect to our society offering us opportunities to connect and interact, do business, become even more efficient and share knowledge as never before We can make friends and contacts across borders and it?s hard to imagine a life without access to such technology
Yet as with all things there is a dark side and those risks are substantial There are always criminals behind the scenes ready to use these tools to steal and to harm and to feed those with bad intentions. Being forewarned can go some way to mitigate that ever-growing risk.
In business in particular, most IT Leaders are aware that managing cyber security, often with limited budgets, is a constant challenge The problem lies
not only in the rapid emergence of new threats, but in the continuous evolution of existing ones
Here are some things to be aware of in 2025.
Human error will remain the main cyber security risk
Those who wish to steal money, knowledge and data know all to well that human error is a key weakness and they will continue to aim their attacks accordingly. Many companies (especially SMEs) tend to treat security
compliance and cyber training as a tick box exercise, until they get caught out. Their attitude will then change It is vital to train staff and to understand what makes an employee more likely to click on a link or fall for a scam, so you can plan training accordingly
AI attacks will rise
AI is a double edge sword ? it helps and it hinders. AI plays a complex role in cyber security, on the one hand it plays a central role in detecting, analysing and responding to threats (think EDR? End Point Detection & Response) Yet a tool for good can also be a tool for the opposite. Cyber criminals are increasingly using generative AI to develop and enhance attacks For example, personalised phishing emails can be scaled on mass and platforms on the dark web can impersonate a sender?s tone, language and style
Deep fake audio and video content will continue to rise
This is one of the scariest aspects of AI and we have already seen examples of it and there
Bench joinery
General timber machinery
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Bespoke moulding
Manufacture of bespoke fire doors
Toilet cubicles
Reception counters
We can also take care of any manufacturing or joinery requirements for your shopfitting and building projects:
Bespoke Furniture
Counters
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Stock room shelving
Steel Fabrication
MCUK Fit out s LTD Unit s 10 & 11
may be examples we have not yet realised are deep fake This happens where hackers research an individual on social media, clone their voice and can use available video footage to trick someone who is trusted by the victim.
Social engineering tactics like this are now expanding in other channels such as calls, messaging apps, QR codes, social media and text messages
Quantum computing threat
Quantum computers are emerging and the benefits versus risks are still unknown What we do know is they are great at solving problems far too complex for traditional computers.
More worryingly, a future with quantum computers will require new encryption methods, or we risk leaving sensitive information vulnerable to hackers, even if encrypted This means bank accounts, online communications and other vital infrastructure will be at risk Encryption will have to evolve
Supply chain security
In recent years there has been an increase in cyber-attacks resulting from vulnerabilities in a supply chain. You are only as safe as your weakest link, yet evaluating supply chains is still not common practice for most businesses. An example of this is so-called ?water holing?This is where a website used by many people within a larger organisation (such as a local council or health care body which is the main target) visit a website routinely ie the waterhole. The site is compromised by criminals who install malware which is then inadvertently distributed by these users to the target organisation. It is happening more and more
Internet of Things security
The rapid expansion of devices (that connect to the internet and networks) such as smart watches, fitness trackers, smart home appliances and assistants such as Amazon Echo and Google Home present security challenges
Because these devices often have weak security features
and connect to each other, a vulnerability in one can result in access to another
For instance an electric vehicle could be put at risk from a Bluetooth vulnerability
You can help by using tactics such as segmenting your networks (ie setting up IOTdevices on a different network to your business data) and setting up MFAon devices when available.
Finally
When evaluating your cyber security, it is wise to adopt a holistic approach which considers education, human risk management, technological solutions and cyber insurance coverage
Filestream asa companyhas evolved significantlysince it wasestablished asone department of an office equipment companyin 2003 and nowsupportsmany larger international firms including worldwide cruise companies, Scania and logisticsgiant, Culina Group. Contact Name:Fiona Scott, MD, Fiona Scott Media Consultanccy, 07789270030 www.filestreamsystems.co.uk
Fut ur e- pr oof your sal es
st r at egy f or 2025
Picture this: it is a brand new year, and your sales strategy is not just keeping up with the competition ? it is setting the pace. Your team anticipates customer needs before they?re even voiced, adapts seamlessly to shifting consumer values, and leverages cutting-edge technology without losing the human touch. It is not science fiction; it is the new reality for businesses ready to embrace change and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world
In 2025, the stakes have never been higher. Consumer behaviors are shifting, technological advancements are accelerating, and the market landscape is more competitive than ever The question is: will your business adapt, innovate, and thrive ? or risk being left behind?
At Credico, we are here to help you prepare for what?s next by exploring the trends
reshaping the sales industry, the challenges on the horizon, and the strategies you need to future-proof your sales approach
Overview of the sales industry in 2025
In early 2025, the sales environment will be virtually unrecognisable from even five years prior Today?s customers demand more transparency, personalisation, and value alignment than ever before.
Research shows that many buying decisions are now influenced by a company?s sustainability and empathy As we negotiate these transformative years, businesses that fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete
Emerging business challenges
Evolving consumer values
In 2025, consumers will not only prioritise but also seek out brands that fit in with their personal values. Ethical consumerism,
once a niche, will dominate mainstream buying habits. Customers will seek transparency not only in product origins but also in sales practices. With this in mind, the question is how can your sales strategy communicate authenticity and trustworthiness?
Additionally, sustainability and diversity will no longer be optional but expected Businesses must embed these principles into their operations to resonate with a socially conscious audience
The tech overload
The rapid expansion of sales technologies is both an
opportunity and a challenge. With thousands of tools available, from CRMs to predictive analytics platforms, how do businesses avoid ?tech fatigue?" The key lies in striking a balance ? using automation to enhance efficiency while preserving the irreplaceable human touch that creates loyalty and connection
The rise of niche markets
Micro-segmentation and personalised marketing will rule the day. Niche markets offer unparalleled opportunities for targeted engagement, but tapping
into them requires adaptability and cultural intelligence. Is your team equipped to embrace hyper-personalisation?
Leverage predictive AI and machine learning
There is no doubt AI has proven to be a transformative tool
Predictive AI can analyse data trends to forecast customer needs and streamline decision-making
Sales teams equipped with these insights can create tailored pitches, enhancing both conversion rates and customer satisfaction
Build resilient partnerships
Collaboration will be critical Outsourcing certain sales functions to experts allows businesses to scale without overburdening internal teams. Strategic partnerships can also provide access to resources and insights that might otherwise remain untapped
A ?digital-first, human-centric?
approach
The sales process must integrate cutting-edge digital tools while maintaining meaningful personal interactions
Customers crave convenience but value the human connection ? finding
the sweet spot between the two will be essential for long-term success.
Looking beyond 2025
While future-proofing may sound like a lofty goal, it is not a one-time project Continuous evaluation and reinvention will be necessary as customer expectations and market dynamics evolve Staying adaptable ensures your sales strategy remains relevant no matter the challenge. In 2025, one thing is clear: the businesses that succeed will not just predict the future? they will shape it. Are you ready to lead the charge or risk getting left behind?The time to act is
now Contact Credico to discuss business support. About Credico:a sales outsourcing companythat hasbeen in operation since 1991.
It specialisesin providing salessolutionsfor Fortune 150, mid-market, and non-profit organisations.
Itsapproach combines face-to-face interactions with innovative technology applicationsto build strong customer relationshipsand maximise impact.
More information about Credico and itsservices, FAQs, and contact information isavailable on itswebsite.
therealityof compressedhours: aturningpoint for UKworkplaces?
David Banaghan, Interim CEOat recruitment software experts, Occupop, shares his thoughts on this growing flexible working trend
As businesses navigate evolving workplace dynamics, compressed working hours are emerging as a compelling alternative to traditional work patterns. Whilst Labour has ruled out mandating a four-day week, the party's support for flexible arrangements, including compressed hours, signals a significant shift in British workplace culture
More than just an extra day off
Astudy from Indeed UK(2023) reveals that 65% of British workers would accept a pay cut for a shorter working week and increased flexibility, highlighting a growing appetite for alternative working patterns For employees, compressed hours present a tempting proposition beyond the obvious attraction of extended weekends.
David Banaghan, Co-Founder and Interim CEO at recruitment software experts, Occupop, highlights:
"When it comes to making job changes, people are no longer just prioritising salary. Work-life balance has become a crucial factor in candidate decision-making"
The financial implications are significant According to recent research, UKparents spend an average of £7,000 annually on child care, per child Compressed hours could help reduce these costs, offering substantial savings for working families
Beyond the bottom line
For businesses, the advantages extend beyond employee satisfaction. The CIPD's business case surrounding flexible working
highlights that flexible working can contribute to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
Data from LinkedIn (2023) reveals that job posts offering flexible working arrangements, as well as culture and wellbeing, receive nearly three times (+175%) more views and more than twice (+139%) as many applications
"In today's competitive job market, flexible working is becoming a powerful differentiator," explains Banaghan
The challenges: not without hurdles
The transition to compressed hours isn't without its complexities Arecent LinkedIn poll by People Management revealed that 23%of organisations anticipate significant issues in implementing compressed hours
Key considerations centre around maintaining service consistency, managing client expectations and adapting operations
Implementation: a strategic approach
"When advising companies on their recruitment strategies, we emphasise the importance of clearly communicating compressed hours policies during the hiring process," Banaghan notes
Some considerations for businesses include: Workplace readiness
- Ensuring adequate rest areas for longer shifts
- Implementing robust health and safety protocols
- Upgrading technology for remote collaboration
Performance monitoring
- Establishing clear productivity metrics
- Regular wellbeing check-ins
- Quarterly review processes
So, as UKbusinesses navigate this transition,
the success of compressed hours will largely depend on thoughtful implementation and continuous adaptation.
With proper planning and open dialogue between employers and employees, compressed hours could represent not just a temporary trend, but a sustainable future for UKworkplaces
Sources
https:// uk newsyahoo com/ four-day-working-week-labour-what-we-know-134255740 html
https:// hrreview co uk/ hr-news/ future-of-work-hr-news/ two-thirds-of-brits-willing-to-take-a-pay-cut-for-more-flexibility-and-a-shorter-workweek/ 373115
https:// www local govuk/ parliament/ briefings-and-responses/debate-affordability-and-availability-childcare-house-commons-21
https:// www cipd org/ globalassets/ media/ knowledge/ knowledge-hub/ tools/ 2024-pdfs/ 8557-flexible-working-business-case-evidence-feb24 pdf
https:// www linkedin com/ business/ talent/ blog/ talent-acquisition/ job-posts-that-cite-well-being-flexibility-culture-get-more-applications
https:// www peoplemanagement co uk/article/1887009/ businesses-really-petrified-labours-alleged-compressed-week-proposals
Manufacturingfirm finedafter workers struck bystoneslabs
Amanufacturing firm in Ipswich has been fined after two workers were struck by slabs of stone, with one of the men sustaining multiple bone fractures as a result
Three slabs of quartz stone fell from a stillage onto Steven Constable and Struan Dunsmore while they worked at Bespoke Stone Ltd?s workshop on Dales Road
The pair, both from Ipswich, had been preparing to lift one of the slabs onto a saw bed when all three fell onto them on 17June 2022.
After sustaining multiple bone fractures and soft tissue damage, Mr Constable has required a number of operations and has been unable to work for over two years. The 54-year-old sustained fractures to his right femur, hip, left tibia and foot He has spent a total of 12 weeks in hospital
Mr Dunsmore, 31, sustained bruising to his body and required time off from work following the incident
AHealth and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found Bespoke Stone Ltd?s handling and storage of slabs was unsafe in that the material was not secure. The restraint system provided did not fit around larger sizes of material The company also failed to accurately report the injuries sustained by Mr Constable and the time taken off work by Mr Dunsmore under RIDDORregulations
HSEguidance states slabs should always remain restrained during loading/ unloading operations, whether from vehicles or from storage when any person could be in the hazard zone into which a slab might fall from its racked position or fail during lifting
"Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action"
Jessica Flint,HSEinspector
Further guidance can be found at: Handling and storage of large sheet stone slabs ? HSE Bespoke Stone Ltd, of Dales Road, Ipswich, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £6,600 and ordered to pay £4,87540 in costs at Peterborough Magistrates?Court on 17January 2025
HSEinspector Jessica Flint said: ?Bespoke Stone Ltd failed to grasp the importance of safe handling and storage of stone materials in stone masonry, with employees regularly working within the hazard zone of slabs during operations within its workshop.
?The CCTVfootage makes clear how serious this incident was, with one of the employees sustaining a number of horrific injuries which have affected his ability to return to work. Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards?
This prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Matthew Reynolds and supported by HSEparalegal officer
Melissa Wardle
Further information:
1 The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is Britain?s national regulator for workplace health and safety. It ise dedicated to protecting people and places, and helping everyone lead safer and healthier lives
2. More information about the legislation referred to in this case is available
3 Further details on the latest HSEnews releases is available
4. HSEdoes not pass sentences, set guidelines or collect any fines imposed Relevant sentencing guidelines must be followed unless the court is satisfied that it would be contrary to the interests of justice to do so The sentencing guidelines for health and safety offences in England and Wales can be found here and for those in Scotland here.
5. CCTVfootage can be found here: CCTV footage ? HSEv Bespoke Stone Ltd mp4 ? Google Drive
Communication expert launches survey to show how different generations w ill talk to each other
Asurvey of more than 4,000 people has been published showing how different generations are communicating as we enter an era: Generation Beta
Experienced communication specialist, speaker and author Alastair Greener has launched an extensive survey, conducted throughout 2024 to really drill down into the different ways generations communicate
?I took on this project because, increasingly, in my work with larger companies and corporates, I?m talking about the importance of effective and impactful communication and how vital it is that we respect the different generations within any workforce.
?By providing hard data, this helps give us all a better understanding of generational differences when it comes to communication preferences. This understanding can lead to more effective communication, leading to a more productive and generationally cohesive workplace?
Alastair, working with professional research company Dynata, interviewed more than 4,000 people asking numerous questions around communication preferences, but without revealing that there would be a focus on generational habits and behaviours.
The results confirmed some familiar patterns in the ways that the different generations communicate but also revealed some remarkable insights Here are some highlights from that research:
- 73 per cent of Gen Zuse emojis in every message
- While Gen Zleans on digital tools, a significant number still value
in-person networking and express concerns about the lack of personal connection in tech-driven communication
- 41per cent of Gen Zavoid phone calls, preferring digital messaging
- 97per cent of Gen Zuse smartphones
- Gen Zand Millennials spend more than four hours daily on social media That is twice that of Gen Xand Boomers
- 32 per cent of Millennials believe they read non-verbal cues 'very well', the highest among all generations
- WhatsApp dominates communication with 80 per cent of adults across all generations using it
- Older generations focus on maintaining relationships through social media, while younger generations use it for self-expression
- Younger generations (Gen Zand Alpha) favour texting, social media, and voice notes, while older generations (Baby Boomers, Silent Gen) prefer phone calls and face-to-face communication
- Half of those working from home feel more productive there, with younger adults more inclined to office work
- While older respondents (Baby Boomers and Silent Gen) still rely on phone calls and emails, their openness to modern tools (like WhatsApp and video conferencing) is higher than expected with 14 per cent of Baby Boomers seeing themselves as early adopters in communication tech
"It's likely that generational gaps will become shorter with the continuing growth of all forms of tech and AI"
AlistairGreener
- While younger groups lead in AI usage, older generations are engaging with it too, albeit at lower rates This indicates a broader adoption curve than commonly believed
- Anotable 73 per cent of older Gen Alpha (ages 8?12) had smartphones by age 10 or younger, with some apps like WhatsApp already part of their communication routine. This reflects rapid tech integration into childhood, even younger than widely presumed - AI and Gaming Communication: 41per cent of Gen Zand 33 per cent of Gen Yuse AI platforms for communication, while 64 per cent of Gen Zalso engage in social interactions via online games
The survey shows that there are many differences in how generations communicate but also some similarities The research also suggests that even older generations can be agile in adapting to change, particularly when it comes to advances in technology allowing different tools to be used for different communication tasks
Alastair said: ?We become more understanding of one another if we take a moment to understand the context of each other?s generation This understanding can help us to become more effective communicators. One universal truth seems to be that we all need to feel that we are being heard whether that?s at home among
friends or at work.
?2025 marks the birth of a new generation, known as Generation Beta and by 2035, this generation will make up an estimated 16 per cent of the global population Most of them will live well into the 22nd Century.
?It?s likely that generational gaps will become shorter with the continuing growth of all forms of tech and AI The world will continually appear differently to younger generations who are simply more connected with others than those of us who were born in the last century
?Organisations that proactively seek to
support a generationally diverse workforce to communicate effectively will be those that grow and thrive in a world where the differences between younger and older generations become be ever clearer,? Alastair said.
Alastair Greener isa leading UK-based speaker and expert around communication skills especiallyaround generationswithin workforcesand organisations. He isan experienced professional speaker and is currentlywriting hisfirst book around generational communication.
https://generationallyspeaking co uk/
