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MAY 2025 Price £2.30 (€2.60)

Making Belfast a sustainable city Deloitte on what needs to happen next to ensure we compete with other global cities in future IN FOCUS

FEATURE

Trade expert on why Trump tariffs won’t work

The rising cost of hospitality across Northern Ireland

Contents 08 News The latest news and exclusives from across the world of Northern Ireland business and beyond

33 Banking & business finance

57 Grocery & food

What could global uncertainty mean for rates?

Why food firms are being forced to reappraise their operations due to price increases

18 Cover story

40 Interview

77 Motoring

Deloitte on what needs to happen next to ensure Belfast can compete with other cities

John Mulgrew speaks to Lucinda Creighton about how firms could ‘flip’ to NI

Pat Burns looks at a longer-range Corsa electric and some powerful luxury SUVs from Lotus

22 In Focus

43 Commercial property & construction

92 Lifestyle

Mark O’Connell says US President Donald Trump will never admit he’s making a mistake

Is a lack of funding causing an exodus in NI?

John Mulgrew pays a visit to Lunn’s to discover some classic and vintage Rolex watches

30 Interview

51 Exports

96 Technology

John Mulgrew sits down the CBI’s policy chief John Foster about the wider UK economy

The days of a ‘special relationship’ with the US are now firmly over

Who gets access to your social media accounts when you die?

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MAY 2025

EDITOR’S COMMENTS

Trouble closer to home than the US

here’s sufficient coverage elsewhere in this edition of the magazine surrounding Donald Trump’s imperious tariff war with the rest of the planet, so there’s little else I can add to the conversation. I will say, that it’s just the latest in a long line of decision-making, point-scoring, pettiness and almost unimaginable levels of political ineptness from the administration, and it’s only been a handful of months. Closer to home, but deeply-rooted in the US, Spirit AeroSystems in Belfast, which was once Short Brothers, has posted sizeable losses once again. In the last four years, those losses have grown to more than a billion dollars, with the current year’s loss up 50% on the previous.

It’s an important time for the future of the organisation, which is one of our biggest employers. Parts of the business look set to be sold off, as part of Boeing’s overall takeover of the parent firm, with Airbus eyeing the manufacturing element which produces wing sets for its A220 commercial aircraft. Looking elsewhere, UK growth and interest rates are certainly going to be harder to predict in the months ahead as the threat of tariffs hang in the air and inflation looks set to outpace most advanced economies. Welcome to the May edition of Ulster Business. I must apologise for how often Donald Trump’s ochre face appears on our pages, but there’s a lot to talk about what’s been happening and what’s ahead.

This month we feature Deloitte as our cover story, looking at the future of Belfast and ensuring it becomes a sustainable city on the world stage. Pavel Barter digs into why we’re seeing rising costs in hospitality, as well as the construction firms from Northern Ireland making their name in GB and beyond. I speak to a few experts in this edition about the impact of tariffs here, and what that could ultimately mean for us in Northern Ireland. I hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine, and thanks again for all the support. ■ John Mulgrew

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Editor John Mulgrew, john.mulgrew@mediahuis.co.uk

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www.ulsterbusiness.com

Advertising Judith Martin, j.martin@mediahuis.co.uk

Cover photo Elaine Hill

@ulsterbusiness

Ulster Business Magazine

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MAY 2025

NEWS

A month in numbers

Belfast’s Spirit AeroSystems losses balloon to $1bn in four years John Mulgrew

$1bn

The accumulated losses of Spirit AeroSystems in Belfast over the last four years.

20%

Reports indicating the potential cut to the workforce of Intel’s operations across the globe.

£600m The combined European Commission fines of Apple and Meta for breaches of its competition rules.

£150m The package secured by Wrightbus to accelerate production to help decarbonise transport.

Spirit AeroSystems in Belfast

elfast aerospace giant Spirit AeroSystems has grown its four-year losses to more than $1bn. Losses have also increased by 50% in the last 12 months – growing to $339m (£255m). It’s also understood a deal to acquire the wider Spirit AeroSystems’ business to Boeing will soon complete, with Airbus eyeing the portion of the plant manufacturing its A220 aircraft wings. In the latest accounts it says Spirit AeroSystems is “permitted to sell” the Belfast business – which files accounts as Short Brothers plc – to one or more third parties. But it says if an alternative buyer has not been agreed by the time the merger completes – due to complete by mid-2025 – the ownership of Spirit AeroSystems’ Northern Ireland operations “will transfer to Boeing”. Spirit AeroSystems saw its losses grow to $339m (£255m), according to the latest published accounts ending December 2023. It says part of that loss was down to an “onerous contract” provision of $253m (£190m). It says after a review of its contracts to “reassess the unavoidable costs to fulfil performance obligations” it resulted in the huge charge “in respect of future obligations”. “There charges are predominantly driven by prolonged adverse global inflationary pressures,

affecting energy, freight, raw material and other costs in addition to increased interest and labour costs”. And Spirit is looking at cutting costs, it says. “… a key focus over the short to mediumterm continues to be the delivery on cost reduction initiatives for current programmes”. It say that includes a “longer-term strategic review of cost-optimal business production strategies and working closely with our key customers to reduce procurement costs and increase labour efficiencies”. Spirit AeroSystems, which now employs around 3,400 staff, says the recent losses have been driven predominantly by wider economic factors. Those include global inflationary pressures – impacting everything from energy costs to freight and raw materials. It says “certain parts of our supply chain have experienced various challenges” and that as a commercial aircraft producer “our business depends on our ability to maintain a healthy supply chain, achieve planned production rate targets, and meet or exceed stringent delivery, performance and reliability standards”. The workforce size grew during the last accounting period – up around 10% from 3,075 from a year earlier. The manufacturer increased aircraft deliveries during the year – rising to 523 from 424 in 2022.

NEWS

Firms ‘could flip north to south’ amid US tariff war John Mulgrew

ompanies could “flip” from south to north amid the ongoing tariff war with the US, according to one former Irish government minister. Lucinda Creighton, former Minister of State for European Affairs, says it’s that’s not a scenario she wants to see. But she also says if the US hits the EU with larger tariffs, she believes Northern Ireland could see new opportunities, given its “unique” position “I do think that there is a unique position there to be leveraged,” she told Ulster Business. She says that’s regardless of the emerging tariff situation, given Northern Ireland’s position on the world stage under the Windsor Framework. “[That’s] regardless of what the tariff situation looks like. Under the NI Protocol and Windsor Framework, that different countries would employ different tariffs to the EU… that is something which is going to be a factor in the future of Northern Ireland.” “So many Irish businesses [which have operations] north and south, you could see some of that flipping. It could happen – I’m not advocating for it, but you could see an easier solution for companies as opposed to absorbing those tariffs.”

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Lucinda Creighton speaking at the launch of Vulcan Consulting’s new Belfast office

US President Donald Trump announced a swathe of global tariffs, including an initial 20% on EU goods, and 10% for those coming from the UK. However, the majority of those are currently on hold. Read the full interview on page 40-41

NEWS

Harland & Wole new owner starts work to ‘revitalise’ firm Margaret Canning

The Harland & Wolff Shipyard in Belfast

he new owner of Harland & Wolff in Belfast has said work has now started on the site to ultimately revitalise Belfast’s naval shipbuilding tradition. Navantia UK, part of a Spanish state-owned shipbuilder, said it was spending additional funds beyond the £78m value to the company of a major contract to build fleet solid support (FSS) ships for the Ministry of Defence (MoD). The company said the work would transform Harland & Wolff in Belfast into one of the UK’s most advanced shipbuilding operations, with much improved capabilities and technology. It said it would “significantly enhance” the Belfast site’s ability to work on future programmes, as well as on the FSS vessels. It would initially support 600 existing jobs in Belfast but in the longer-term, would create the potential to add more high-skilled jobs. Those jobs would be in areas such as computer-aided design, advanced manufacturing and digital systems integration. “This investment marks a watershed moment for UK shipbuilding,” Juan de la Cueva, chief executive of Navantia UK, said. “By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage with Navantia’s global expertise and cutting-edge technology, we are creating a world-class facility capable of delivering the next generation of naval vessels.

Quotes of the month

“This modernisation programme represents our long-term commitment to UK sovereign capability, and to the revival of shipbuilding across the UK.” Phase one of the modernisation will improve its capacity for building hulls by improving delivery systems, stockyard management and cutting technologies. It will add new lifting cranes, robotic plasma cutting systems, and automated quality control processes. A fully mechanised panel line for flat panel

units will be installed, while the shipyard’s Samson and Goliath gantry cranes will continue to play a “vital” role, the company said. The company said the modernisation was the start of its investment to “revitalise Belfast’s naval shipbuilding tradition with world-class technology”. “This revival will be achieved through technical knowledge transfer from Navantia’s Spanish operations, combined with the group’s proven global shipbuilding expertise,” it said.

“It tells you a lot about the echo chamber that he has created for himself. There is no scope for dissent.”

“The commercial property market in Northern Ireland continued to face challenges with a variety of highs and lows.”

Mark O’Connell of OCO Global speaking about Donald Trump in this edition of the magazine.

Garrett O’Hare of RICS NI speaking about the wider commercial property sector here.

“This is much more wide ranging across the entire economy and global world order with trade.” Former Irish government minister Lucinda Creighton speaking about US trade tariff impact contrasted with the financial crash.

NEWS

Marie Doyle

Cost of living ‘still greatest concern’ for public in NI

ore than three quarters of people believe the cost of living crisis remains the biggest issue here, according to new research. For the third year running, the cost of living crisis was the Northern Ireland public’s biggest concern, mentioned by 77% of people, with the NHS a close second, as 76% of people said it should be a top government priority. That’s according to Deloitte’s State of the State report. The public in NI placed the ‘availability of affordable housing’ third (48%) and ‘jobs and economic growth’ was the fourth highest area of concern (47%). Marie Doyle, partner at Deloitte in Belfast, said: “Without exception, public sector leaders interviewed for this year’s State of the State report welcomed the return of the Northern Ireland Executive. Many lauded the demonstrably positive relationships between ministers, especially at the top of government. “Senior civil servants were the most pleased to see the return of political leaders, not least to mark the end of legal ambiguity and allow them to concentrate on their core jobs. However, many interviewees were impatient for ministers to make the bold decisions needed to reform public services and put the state on a more sustainable financial footing. “It was clear in our interviews that expectations of the Programme for Government were sky high across the public sector.”

Pioneering wastewater solutions: Burke Environmental Services leading the way

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MAY 2025

John and Barry Burke

clients comply with regulations but also contribute to the protection of local ecosystems. Ongoing maintenance is another cornerstone of the service. With regular assessments, servicing, and emergency repairs, Burke Environmental Services ensures systems remain effective and costefficient long term. As the demand for professional wastewater solutions grows, Burke Environmental Services stands ready to meet it combining technical expertise, environmental responsibility, and a reputation for excellence. www.burkeenvironmental.co.uk | 028 2582 0116

NEWS

Demand for ofce and industrial space up for first time in two years Garrett O’Hare

boost in the office and industrial sectors have helped the commercial property sector see demand increase for the first time in almost two years. That’s according to the latest Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Commercial Property Monitor for the first quarter of the year. A net of 6% of NI respondents reported a rise in overall occupier demand, with both office and industrial space seeing an increase. The last time this net balance was in positive territory was quarter two 2023. A net balance of 6% saw a rise in office space and a net balance of 25% in industrial. And respondents expect rents to increase in the short-term, according to the survey. “A net balance of 17% expect rents to rise at an all-sector level over the next three months, which is the highest this balance has been since 2018,” it said. “Rents in both the office and industrial sub-sectors are anticipated to rise through the

next quarter (net balances of 6% and 56% respectively).” Garrett O’Hare, RICS NI commercial property spokesperson and managing director of Bradley NI said: “The commercial property market in Northern Ireland continued to face challenges with a variety of highs and lows depending on the asset class and location. “The industrial sector continues to outperform the other subsectors, with demand continuing to outweigh supply, albeit demand has eased back somewhat since the influx of occupiers on the back of Brexit. It’s encouraging to see that retail is showing some signs of improvement with increased occupier demand in high footfall locations, but with rents remaining relatively low. The prime office market with larger floor areas remains under pressure, while small spaces and serviced offerings remain attractive due to their flexibility and cost effectiveness. “While it’s promising to see that surveyors are more optimistic on the overall outlook of the commercial property sectors, there are still

many obstacles in the way.” And looking at the picture across the UK, RICS chief economist, Simon Rubinsohn, said: “Despite the turbulence engulfing the geo-political environment following President Trump’s tariff announcement at the start of April, feedback to the latest RICS was steady with the headline investment enquiries metric returning to positive territory, albeit modestly, for the first time since the second quarter of 2022. “Longer term indicators, while generally constructive, continue to reflect the likely headwinds facing the real estate market over the next twelve months. Aside from the challenges linked to the global economy, concerns around domestic issues including the impact of the uplift in NI contributions are seen as likely weighing on occupier demand. “Meanwhile the bifurcation in the office sector remains very visible in the latest results with the outlook for prime space seemingly improving as sentiment around secondary offices remains deeply negative.”

Private medical insurance: the new essential employee benefit?

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MAY 2025

business. By selecting our tailored private medical insurance plans, you are investing in your employees’ health and fostering a supportive environment that enhances the overall wellbeing of your organisation. To explore your options or create a bespoke private medical insurance solution tailored to your business’s needs, our dedicated Private Medical Team is here to help. Get in touch today at 0800 066 55 44 or visit abbeyautoline.co.uk/private-medical-insurance

NEWS

Music venue founded by Snow Patrol star Lightbody ‘at risk of closure’ if hotel is approved The Oh Yeah Music Centre is opposing plans for a hotel nearby in Belfast city centre amid features it could impact its future and viability, writes John Mulgrew

top Belfast music venue cofounded by Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody has said plans for a new Cathedral Quarter hotel nearby could lead to its closure over potential noise issues. The Oh Yeah Music Centre, which has played host to some of Northern Ireland’s top acts, is concerned that if a new 40-bedroom boutique hotel is given the go-ahead at Gordon Street, the venue could be at risk from complaints, primarily around noise, from guests. The new development could see the building, which was home to the Labour Relations Agency on Gordon Street, transformed into the latest hotel in the area. In a letter opposing the new plans, the Oh Yeah Music Centre – which is run as a charity – says, having reviewed the documents, its main concern is around the “increased risk of the venue experiencing noise complaints and the subsequent threat to our viability to continue to trade in our current form in the venue and the subsequent impact this would have on the ability of the wider organisation to survive and deliver our charitable objectives”. The plans for the new hotel have been made by Havana Trading No.4 Ltd – a company which counts Peter, Thomas and James Jennings among its directors. The plans could see the office development converted into a boutique hotel, with ground

Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol

floor extension, restaurant, bar and outside courtyard. “The design provides an extension and redevelopment that respects the site’s immediate context and that of this wider cultural, social, hospitality, leisure and commercial area,” supporting plans say. “It will create an attractive and sustainable place to stay, socialise and spend leisure time. It will further enhance the 24-hour economy of the Cathedral Quarter and Belfast city centre. “Most of the neighbours immediately surrounding the site are in the hospitality/ tourism sector.” Speaking about its opposition to the hotel, in a letter signed by its chief executive Charlotte Dryden, the Oh Yeah Music Centre says: “We are a hub in the Cathedral Quarter for cultural activity and the grassroots music sector within which we operate. “To avoid the increased risk of closure that we feel we may be under, we object to the application in its current state and feel it should be refused to allow the concerns

outlined below to be addressed.” Its main concern is surrounding the noise impact statement, filed as part of the overall planning application. It says while the Oh Yeah Music Centre is mentioned in the main planning document, it is not referenced in the noise impact assessment. In its letter, the centre says the assessment “took place over a survey period” when it “didn’t have any live music or DJ events booked”. It adds there is “insufficient consideration of the risk of noise impact on hotel guests and the impact this could have on the venue”. As a result, it is concerned that it is placed at an “increased risk” of experiencing noise complaints. “We are a highly-regarded, commended and award-winning, on a national level,” it says. The centre believes the scheme should be refused as potential noise complaints could “affect the ability of the Oh Yeah Music Centre venue to continue trading”. n

RECRUITMENT

Is hybrid working still a hill firms are prepared to die on? Maybe… John Moore, managing director, Hays NI

recently heard about a professional who had turned down a higher paying role in favour of a lower salary because the higher paying company had insisted that the person would have to work from their office five days a week, compared with the other company’s policy of only asking for three office-based days. It was interesting to hear a local Northern Ireland example of such a decision being made as many of the headlines we normally read about the backlash against hybrid working are from the chief executives of big multi-nationals or global banks irked by having to pay for big offices in cities like London and New York that aren’t being used. Five years after the pandemic put flexible working at the top of the agenda, yet it’s still something employers in many sectors are wrestling with, and discussions around “returnto-office” mandates are now widespread. However, Hays’ research has revealed that most workers are not willing to forego the option of working from home any time soon, with almost half (48%) of professionals across the UK saying they would consider quitting their current role if their employer made it compulsory for them to return-to-office full time. Women (58%) were more likely to leave their position than men (42%) if they had to give up hybrid working. According to the research, based on a survey of over 8,000 responses from employers and professionals across the UK, employers say over three quarters (77%) of their workforce are currently working in a hybrid way. For the employers who continue to offer hybrid working, the most opted for agreement is three days a week spent in the office (25%) which hasn’t changed since the results of our research six months prior. In terms of how regularly employers would like to see their staff come into the office, 22% allow their team to choose how many days they work remotely and in the workplace, a slight dip compared to six months ago (26%). Despite these talks of a return-to-office,

MAY 2025

three quarters (75%) of employers say they haven’t made any changes to their hybrid working policies in the last six months, leaving two in ten (20%) who have asked their staff to be in the workplace more often. So what does the future hold? Well, just 8% of employers confess they have plans to mandate a return-to-office in the next six months and two thirds (66%) unsurprisingly have concerns that a push to return-to-office could result in backlash from their workforce. Professionals who were surveyed said the top factor that would impact their decision to return to the office on a more regular basis is the cost of commuting (73%). Our research revealed that working in the office all week would increase commuting costs for the vast majority (88%) of workers – whether that’s driving and parking, rail or bus tickets. Interestingly, the research demonstrates that the impact these costs would have on general finances would be more significant for women

(59%) than men (41%). Despite the noise about the need to get people back to the office, over half (52%) of employers believe productivity is the same between home workers and office workers, followed by 19% who view home workers as more productive than office workers. Only 13% say staff working from home are less productive overall than office-based workers. This debate over returning to the office full time or continuing to work in a hybrid way has recently taken over the world of work. Employers must acknowledge they are at risk of losing talent if they make a full-time return-to-office mandatory, as our research clearly shows how much professionals still desire the option to work from home. Employers must consider key factors such as the cost of commuting, work-life balance and productivity before making any significant changes to their current working model, in order to stay competitive in a difficult market. n

NEWS

Gym chain opposes Belfast hotel extension which could see it shut its doors John Mulgrew

gym chain is opposing a Belfast hotel’s expansion plans which could see it shutting its doors with the loss of jobs. Pure Gym says the Ramada by Wyndam’s plans to turn its gym site into a new restaurant as part of its extension “will result in the loss of the existing gym that makes an important contribution to the availability of health and fitness facilities within the city centre and the health and wellbeing of its residents, workers and visitors”. The hotel is based at the corner of Talbot Street in Belfast city centre, beside St Anne’s Square. Newly-drawn up plans show the gym area being turned into another restaurant, close to the Edward Street side of the St Anne’s Square building beside the main hotel. In a letter, Pure Gym says it has operated its gym since 2010, and there are “no alternative arrangements are in place to either relocate PureGym or to provide alternative health and fitness provision”. “[Pure Gym] provides accessible health and fitness facilities to city centre residents and workers, extending opportunities for physical exercise and social interaction that promote good health and wellbeing,” Jonathan Wadcock, a director of Urban Agile, on behalf of its client Pure Gym, said. “Its affordable and flexible memberships appeal to all sections of the community including those on lower incomes, thereby supporting efforts to reduce health inequalities.” “The loss of the existing gym as part of the current proposal will lead to a significant

Plans are underway to extend the Ramada by Wyndham

reduction in the availability of health and fitness facilities within the city centre and, in particular, larger, affordable gyms with general appeal to those who live, work and visit the city centre.” “The current application is not supported by a ‘health impact assessment despite the clear potential for significant effects on public health and wellbeing”, the letter says. An application has been submitted by Place Lab on behalf of the Ramada for a “change of use from gym to hotel and restaurant with external alterations”. Pure Gym did not wish to comment further and planning consultants for the hotel were contacted were for comment. The nearby MAC theatre has also opposed the hotel plans for expansion. In a letter, it says it believes issues around “traffic and access, noise and amenity, and

safeguarding local cultural infrastructure” would have a negative impact on its own operations. “While we welcome the proposed repurposing of the gym, the potential for conflict between the proposed hotel/restaurant and the MAC’s operational needs is a matter of serious concern, and we respectfully request that these issues are fully addressed during the planning decision process.” It says there must be a “robust noise mitigation measures to prevent operational restrictions on the MAC, particularly during anti-social hours, a co-designed operational strategy developed in consultation with the MAC, and addressing shared access and usage of Edward Street to ensure compatibility between the new development and existing uses”. n

COVER STORY

Seizing the opportunity to make Belfast a sustainable city Deloitte has long been a significant player in the NI economy and the firm’s move to new headquarters in The Ewart in Belfast has reinforced its commitment to the city. Ulster Business caught up with some of its local leaders to get their views on what needs to happen next to ensure Belfast can compete with other global cities in future

verlooking the city from Deloitte’s beautiful new offices in The Ewart, it is easy to see why the firm is optimistic about Northern Ireland’s future prospects. The new regional headquarters on Bedford Street in the heart of the bustling Linen Quarter covers four floors of The Ewart’s modern office tower and connects to the historic part of the development, the iconic Ewart Warehouse. Despite well documented current headwinds in international trade and government budget deficits, Deloitte believes there are many positive factors shaping the outlook and think the region is well primed to grab some significant opportunities. “Belfast and Northern Ireland have weathered the shocks of the previous three years or so quite well,” Stephen Prendiville,

Deloitte’s sustainable infrastructure leader, says. “Now with a functioning Executive in place, a prime position following the UK’s exit from the EU, with one foot in the UK and the other in Europe, as well as positive affordability and labour statistics – it is primed for growth like no other city in the UK or Ireland.” Stephen believes there are many positive factors shaping Belfast’s trajectory to becoming an energised, resilient and sustainable city, including affordability for those living in and around it, its educated workforce, the flourishing innovation ecosystem and a strong industrial history. Combined, these factors create the ingredients for NI to potentially see a renaissance in activity linked to the renewable energy transition, advances in tech and AI, and more.

The combination of economic growth, sustainable practices, and improving social cohesion positions Belfast as a vibrant and thriving city – outperforming peer cities in the UK and Ireland. “I look at what Belfast has in terms of existing workforce, industries, recent city developments such as Grand Central Station, as well as its affordability and economic position, and I see an opportunity to really bed down a strong and sustainable economic and social model that will last generations,” says Prendiville. “Belfast is resilient,” he adds. “While all cities have been impacted by COVID and other events in the last five years – Belfast has more of the stuff that will allow it to thrive in the new global world order than some of its peers”.

COVER STORY

Stephen Prendiville, Aisléan Nicholson, and Colin Mounstephen

Development Belfast’s development trajectory presents a promising future for the city. The Belfast Crane Survey, released by Deloitte at the start of the year, provides a detailed analysis of the construction activity in the city. Deloitte director Colin Mounstephen says the survey showed significant investments in infrastructure have been made – from enhanced green space at City Quays Gardens to the immense Grand Central Station which will underpin enhanced public transport in the city and beyond. “These enhancements are crucial for supporting the city’s growth and connectivity,” he says. “However, in the same vein, funding bottlenecks and planning delays, as well as necessary enabling infrastructure – particularly water infrastructure – were flagged as key risk

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areas to be addressed.” The survey shows a long-awaited pick up in residential construction, mostly attributable to the riverside Loft Lines development – which prioritises active and public transport over car parking spaces – and numerous projects in the pipeline aimed at addressing both existing housing demand and the City Council’s desire to see more people living in the city centre. While the boom in major office projects has slowed, hotel activity has started to pick up and construction of educational facilities, including universities and research centres, is on the rise. A key area that Belfast could seek to focus on is creating and maintaining diversity of footfall and how that can contribute to sustainability while also building the resilience of the city centre.

“The survey continues to point to growth in visitors and students. We know office workers are largely in Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. People are also in the city centre for retail and leisure with the survey finding increased leisure and cultural investments,” Colin says. “However, there is the ongoing effort to increase the permanent city centre population and unlocking that with a diverse range of footfall to really enhance value for all those in the city, individuals and businesses alike.” “There are challenges in bridging that gap sustainably – for example how can older office buildings be refurbished and retrofitted for other uses? In Belfast we have seen this most commonly for student accommodation and hotels, but we should be challenging each other – can we see more of that used >

COVER STORY

Colin Mounstephen, Aisléan Nicholson and Stephen Prendiville

for residential? How do we further enhance the uptake of public transport; we have a relatively flat and compact city, how do we make it more cycle friendly? We need to continue to look at what has worked in other cities from an economic, social and environmental perspective to ensure Belfast thrives sustainably.” Investment Deloitte’s State of the State report provides a comprehensive analysis of public sector performance and societal trends, offering insights into government priorities, public service challenges, and the expectations of citizens. The report is crucial for understanding the broader context within which Belfast’s development is taking place. Having sat for several years with no NI Executive, senior civil servants and public sector leaders interviewed for the report believe that the soon to be published Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland will give the returned Executive the ability to make decisions on major capital projects which have been awaiting approval. There is around £40bn of demand for major projects and a budget of £24bn, meaning government must prioritise the most pressing needs before moving on to other projects.

But the report highlights that the public understand this situation, giving leaders and political decision makers the opportunity to have a mature debate around priorities and potentially some difficult choices. “In this year’s report, Northern Ireland’s public sector leaders highlighted three key ambitions: bold reform, even if that means structural change; a sense of urgency in its delivery; and greater collaboration across services alongside greater engagement with the voluntary sector,” Aisléan Nicholson, partner at Deloitte, says. “There are big asks on spend for maintenance of the current estate, as well as net zero commitments in addition to new major projects, all of which puts pressure on budgets. “But there is now more appetite among public sector leaders to work together to kick start positive change, attract new talent to the sector and accelerate the digital transformation that would revolutionise service delivery.” In a recent global report on AI Powered Cities of the Future, Deloitte noted that artificial intelligence is revolutionising how cities analyse data, create content and perform tasks, allowing them to boost productivity, drive efficiencies, and better meet the needs of residents and citizens.

Based on analysis of 250 cities globally, the report surmised that, in the future, AI has the potential to transform urban services, from infrastructure and transportation to public safety, health, and the environment. AI is expected to become widely accessible to businesses and residents across cities. For Belfast, becoming a sustainable city is not just about environmental considerations. It is about government, safety and security, liveability and health considerations, mobility and transportation and urban infrastructure. AI could be an enabler for improving each of these areas, but it will also require close collaboration between stakeholders to make progress. Examples of collaboration around common purpose and values are already starting to emerge, including Deloitte’s own partnership with Catalyst to create a new innovation hub in the Ewart being a case in point. “Working with our clients across industries and of different sizes and scales – we see the positivity, the entrepreneurship, the drive, grit, resilience of the people that live and work here.” Aisléan Nicholson says. “When you see this day in day out with the clients we are supporting to realise value and have an impact that matters to their communities – it is hard not to be positive for what is to come.” ■

IN FOCUS

‘The patriotism won’t last long when Americans realise they are getting gouged on prices’ Donald Trump’s swathe of global trade tariffs, most of which are currently on hold, sent markets into freefall and left investors and nations re-examining their ‘special’ relationship with the biggest economy in the world. John Mulgrew speaks to Mark O’Connell of OCO Global about what impact it’s had and what the second-term US President could face in the months ahead

‘H

e’ll never admit defeat’, Mark O’Connell says of the US premier. “But he’s made so many exceptions and continues to do so… it’s like smashing up the bar, and then realised you like drinking.” The phrases “own goal” and “echo chamber“ are part of our conversation into what impact the announced tariff war from US President Donald Trump is having – or could have – on our wider global economy, and what it means for us at home. Mark heads up Belfast-based OCO Global – an advisory firm in the international trade, investment and economic development sector. “The initial trigger happy Trump with these swathing tariffs has been tempered by the markets, and the bond markets in particular,” he tells Ulster Business.

“When you see the row back on smartphones, and chips, you’d think with advisers and heft, that someone sensible in the room would say it’s an own goal. “It tells you a lot about the echo chamber that he has created for himself. There is no scope for dissent.” At the core of all of this is stability. It’s something Northern Ireland struggled with for decades amid the worst of the Troubles, and to a lesser extent, continued to do amid periods of political instability and flux in the years since. “The bottom line from a business point of view, is page one, paragraph one, of the playbook on investment – you need a stable and predictable regime to de-risk your investment,” Mark says. “The US used to be the safest haven, now it’s less so. Of course, I get it – he’s trying to

[discourage] exporting to the US, and incentive direct investment and become more selfsufficient. “But the way he is going about it is the wrong way. The US is already an attractive market, with competitive businesses there – they don’t need a stick to get them there. “The skills and attitudes towards manual work have changed, and they aren’t coming back. “More immediately for Northern Ireland firms, the message is, for the time being – the US market, for exporting, is still attractive. “It’s consumer-driven demand. When you try to restrict competition, you are limiting consumer choices – it’s been tried [in other countries unsuccessfully]. In the end, consumer demand forced them to open their markets. “The US is a very competitive market. If the

IN FOCUS

Mark O’Connell

only option is American then the patriotism won’t last long when they realise they are getting gouged on price or monopolised by one or two suppliers.” He said while some of the US’s big consumer retailers may source goods from dozens of countries, if restrictions and taxation comes in which forces them to buy from American suppliers, it may not have a happy ending. “It’s people power in the end that will disrupt his plan,” he says. “There is way too much focus on [physical] products. But the biggest part of economy is services and digital – no one is talking about that. “Trump has to have his victory, but at moment it looks like he’s scoring own goals. With the pandemic, we released how dependent we are on China.

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“Trump is doing the same with Europe as a wake up call. The dependence on foreign investment is a source of a lot of nervousness – rebooting, and seeing lots of [organisations] diversifying exports.” He says we have historically had an overdependence on trade and business with the US market. However, Mark says one of his clients, a manufacturer, has already set up a major base in the US – before the current Trump administration took over – and is seeing strong trade. He says the tariffs on nations such as China and Mexico have been something of a boon for firms operating in that space. “They have never been busier,” Mark says. “The US market is 10 times what Europe is.” Being so close to one of its major customer bases allows assembly and a degree of

customisation only possible, given the proximity. But looking ahead, prices are likely to rise – regardless of whether the Trump tariffs are introduced, and how severe they may be for certain sectors in particular. “A number of factors have forced price increases over last 12 months,” Mark says. “Inflation and interest rates, the price of money and labour – it’s already high. Clients are, to some degree, anticipating increases.” He said rising prices, for some, can be locked in, whereas others have less flexibility. “It’s fast-moving stuff – prices have to be imposed immediately,” he says. “For engineering firms, fabrication, advanced manufacturing, they can lock in prices, as they have bought raw materials – probably contracted some time ago.” ■

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

The AI Collaboration Centre: leading the way amid the emergence of world-changing tech As artificial intelligence continues to transform the way we work and do business, the AI Collaboration Centre (AICC) – a pioneering initiative from Ulster University in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast – is empowering Northern Ireland’s SMEs to harness its potential, build critical skills and shape future policy to secure the region’s place at the forefront of tech innovation

e’ve scratched the surface when it comes to the use of artificial intelligence across business and our wider society. And what’s happening at the AI Collaboration Centre (AICC) is only the beginning of what’s to come in the years ahead. The AICC is the first of its kind here – an ambitious venture helping to teach, inform and support companies and individuals, lead in engagement and future government policy, as well as develop a wider eco-system in Northern Ireland. It’s a £16.3m initiative led by Ulster University, in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast backed by Invest NI and the Department for the Economy. The focus is on bridging the gap between AI research and practical business needs, especially for SMEs who may lack in-house expertise, as well as teaching others, fixing skills shortages, and tackling areas such as a lack of trust, fear of complexity, and cost of entry. At the Centre’s helm is tech visionary David Crozier CBE – an Ulster University graduate with serious credentials. A former chief executive of Software NI, David subsequently spent more than a decade driving strategic partnerships at Queen’s University Belfast’s Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) and its Institute of Electronics, Communications and Information Technology (ECIT). “Our team is currently 16-strong, with

more roles in the pipeline, and is spread out across Ulster University’s Belfast and Derry~Londonderry campuses, as well as on the Malone Road at Queen’s University Belfast,” he says. One of the organisation’s core mandates is to drive AI adoption across Northern Ireland’s SMEs, spanning all sectors, to help them adopt AI into their businesses. “It’s about the democratisation of AI and getting access to AI tools and technologies for SMEs here,” David says. The first step for companies is to register an expression of interest, before being chosen by the AICC and onboarded. “We have a light touch engagement framework that covers a non-disclosure agreement, an IP clause and a statement of work,” David says. “From there, we work closely with each company to understand their pain points and explore how AI tools can be trialled to deliver targeted solutions,” he says. “Once the challenges are defined, the AICC builds out a tailored statement of work and enters a phase of active engagement, supporting the business as the AI technologies are tested and refined. “The team uses its new Core Assessment of Governance and Ethics (CAGE) framework to ensure AI is applied responsibly and in line with regulations such as GDPR – reinforcing trust, transparency, and fairness from the outset.”

The AICC is now actively working on almost 40 projects with firms from across the sectors, utilising a range of technologies from global software providers – such as Microsoft and AWS. “We are getting a whole variety of different use cases coming through the door, for example, a construction firm looking to use AI to be more efficient around its route planning for deliveries,” David says. The AICC provides 20 days of support for one-to-one consultations, potential development of proof of concepts and matchmaking with data scientists and applied researchers. And it’s also delivering almost 400 postgraduate scholarships, over the next five years. But aside from the direct company engagement and postgraduate education, it’s also offering professional short courses to over 3,000 individuals within industry, as well as hosting hands-on workshops across Northern Ireland. The use of AI is referenced to play a key part of our future as part of Stormont’s Programme for Government, especially looking towards strategic regional investment. And part of the AICC’s role will be to engage and inform our policymakers around the ever-evolving role of AI in our society, and how it can be a boon for many of us. And for David, a key to Northern Ireland’s

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

David Crozier

AI future is ensuring we have sufficient training and skills to deal with the emerging technologies around us. “The demand for skills is there and there are many examples of where AI can demonstrably improve productivity and efficiency,” he says. “So, it’s important that we share that knowledge and expertise.” David says, while image generators and similar popular AI models push the technology into the mainstream consciousness, the possibilities are considerably more complex and useful. “Simple content creation and image generation is really only scratching the surface,” he says. “It can be about embedding technologies into workflows, assisting in

MAY 2025

productivity, automation, and things like agentic AI, which could help an organisation augment its human resources.” By the end of the five-year programme, the AICC will have delivered around 250 proofof-concept projects with SMEs – each offering valuable insight into how AI can be practically applied across different sectors. While some solutions will address common challenges, many will be tailored to unique business needs, creating a rich bank of knowledge, case studies, and tested products that can be shared to accelerate wider adoption and build AI confidence across the SME community. Looking ahead, the AICC is aiming to become a catalyst for innovation in Northern

Ireland’s economy and position Northern Ireland as a global leader in responsible, human-centred AI. “We are clearly at the top of a hype cycle with AI and there is a lot of interest out there. “What we’re seeing through these early projects are practical and measurable applications of AI. “We’re already capturing clear evidence of improved productivity and operational efficiency – proof that AI, when applied with purpose, can deliver significant value for our SMEs.” ■ For insights into how AI can drive your business forward, follow the AICC on LinkedIn and learn more at aicc.co

INSURANCE

Strengthening the team: Davison & Associates bolster claims wisdom with key appointment

avison & Associates, the Belfast-based commercial claims management firm, has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of John McConnell as senior claims consultant. With over 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, John joins the firm at a time of strategic growth, bringing additional capacity and deep technical expertise to support clients facing high-value, complex losses. For over 14 years, Davison & Associates has worked with businesses across Northern Ireland to manage commercial insurance claims, offering guidance and hands-on support through what is often one of the most disruptive and stressful periods a business can face. A track record of trust The firm has managed major claims for some of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable organisations, from leading commercial enterprises to infrastructure operators and public sector bodies. From property damage and business interruption to product recall, the team has consistently delivered results by focusing on clarity, responsiveness and deep sector knowledge. Joining this experienced group, John McConnell brings with him a background that spans food manufacturing, agriculture, property, and faith-based organisations – sectors where claims can be particularly complex and time-sensitive. “Dealing with a major loss is never straightforward,” John says. “Aside from the immediate impact, there’s often a long list of people to deal with insurers, loss adjusters, surveyors, sometimes even legal or compliance specialists. My career has been spent helping to take that pressure off, to manage the process and keep things moving for business owners.” Familiar faces and shared experience John’s appointment also marks a reunion with

John McConnell and Ray Lyons

Ray Lyons, senior claims consultant at Davison & Associates. The two have worked closely in previous roles and now bring a combined 70 years of experience in claims management to the firm. “John brings real strength to the team,” Ray says. “He’s highly organised and client-focused, with a deep understanding of how insurers operate. That perspective is invaluable when you’re trying to move a claim forward and avoid delays.” When asked about the key challenges businesses face when dealing with major claims, both point to familiar issues – many of which, they say, can be mitigated with early advice and the right support. “One of the most common problems we see is underinsurance,” Ray says. “Businesses often don’t realise the implications until it’s too late. And even where appropriate cover is in place, the practicalities of managing a claim – gathering evidence, interpreting policy detail, keeping everything moving – can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to run a business at the same time.” A practical perspective Alongside technical expertise, John and Ray emphasise the importance of managing not

just the claim, but the broader impact it can have on a business. “A major loss isn’t just about damage to a building or equipment,” John says. “It affects operations, staff, supply chains, and customer relationships. The claims process has to move at the same pace as the recovery plan – and that takes coordination and experience.” Ray says that claims can often involve a wide cast of professionals – insurers, adjusters, accountants, surveyors – all with different priorities. “We’re there to bring structure to the process, keep communication clear, and make sure nothing is missed. A well-managed claim can be the difference between a business recovering and a business stalling.” For businesses that haven’t been through a major loss before, the advice is simple: don’t underestimate the complexity, and don’t leave yourself underprepared. “Support at the right time can make all the difference,” Ray says. “We’ve seen it firsthand, again and again. ■ Need to talk? Davison & Associates supports businesses through every stage of the claims process. Get in touch on 028 9070 6900 or email info@davisonandassociates.co.uk

NEWS

Meta says EU trying to ‘handicap’ US firms after new fines M

eta has lashed out at the EU’s latest round of big tech fines, accusing it of trying to “handicap” it and other US firms. The new fines – a m200m (£172m) penalty on Meta for its ‘pay or consent’ model, as well as a m500m fine on Apple for preventing app developers from steering users to cheaper options outside its App Store – are the first to be doled out under the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which aims to improve competition within the 27 EU countries. Meta’s heated response comes amid transatlantic tension in the Trump presidency over whether US firms get a fair deal in the EU. Big tech firms, including Apple and Meta, have been lobbying President Trump to take action against the EU on its tougher regulatory and financial rules which hit US tech companies harder because of their

MAY 2025

dominance in the market. “The European Commission is attempting to handicap successful American businesses while allowing Chinese and European companies to operate under different standards,” Joel Kaplan, Meta’s chief global affairs officer, said. “This isn’t just about a fine. The Commission forcing us to change our business model effectively imposes a multi-billion-dollar tariff on Meta while requiring us to offer an inferior service. And by unfairly restricting personalised advertising the European Commission is also hurting European businesses and economies.” Apple has yet to respond to the latest fine. The recent round of fines are significantly smaller than fines issued by the European Commission last year against Meta and Apple. Mark Zuckerberg’s firm was slapped with a m797m (£684m) penalty over disproportionately pushing its classified ads

Mark Zuckerberg, chief executive of Meta

service onto social media users while Apple was handed a m1.8bn (£1.54bn) fine for misusing its platform to distribute music streaming. Donald Trump has repeatedly warned that he will take action against the EU if American companies appear to be disadvantaged. The EU recently abandoned a key piece of regulatory enforcement legislation, the AI Liability Act, after transatlantic tensions began. “We have taken firm but balanced enforcement action against both companies, based on clear and predictable rules,” said Teresa Ribera, executive vice-president for a clean, just and competitive transition. ”All companies operating in the EU must follow our laws and respect European values. [These] decisions send a strong and clear message.” ■

ARCHITECTURE

RPP Architects expands team as it heads towards 50 years in business RPP Architects, which has worked on a host of major and regionally significant schemes, is growing its senior management team as it approaches its 50th year in business

PP Architects which is approaching its 50th year in business is expanding its senior management team, in tandem with the developing consultancy business in Ireland and the UK. The practice, led by directors, Harry McConnell, Peter McGirr and Simon Robinson, has appointed five new associate directors from its current team, to focus on key areas of business and to support our clients. The practice is very fortunate to have talented and enthusiastic professionals leading and rising through the business. Some of the practice’s recent projects include the new Student Centre for Queen’s University Belfast,

Belfast Film Studios, Grand Central Hotel and most recently the new Grand Central Station. The practice continues its current commitment to the social housing sector in Ireland and several student residential schemes including Ireland’s first Passivhaus student accommodation, which incorporates 459 bedrooms over 17 floors. In the UK, the practice’s focus is on the transport and hospitality markets, and they are actively delivering significant projects within these sectors. Paul Donnelly, associate director, housing Paul has over 25 years’ experience as an architect and specialises in private and Paul Donnelly, Paul Toner, Jonathan McDonald, Philip Murray and Andrew Hair

social residential development. Paul is highly experienced in the procurement, contract administration and project management. Andrew Hair, associate director, commercial Andrew provides and manages client interface and design delivery for the practice’s retail clients. He has developed expertise in energy efficient design and sustainability and holds the Passivhaus designer accreditation. Paul Toner, associate director, building information management Over the past 10 years Paul has been at the forefront of the practice’s development of building information management (BIM). As well as managing this in-house, he now provides the global BIM coordination role for major infrastructure projects. Jonathan McDonald, associate director, transport Jonathan is a very experienced architect acting as the integrated design team lead on several complex transport and infrastructure projects. Philip Murray, associate director, commercial Philip also has many years of experience as a design leader within the practice and has an in-depth technical expertise developed through design leadership in healthcare and technology focused projects. The practice is delighted to be able to have made these appointments, and believes the experience and professionalism of these individuals will be essential for the ongoing development of the business. n

INTERVIEW

‘There remains a confidence problem in our private sector’ John Foster, CBI chief policy and campaigns officer, speaks to John Mulgrew about where the UK private sector is heading, how firms are performing and the ongoing uncertainty around tariffs

ncertainty remains the global economic buzzword. We were burdened with it many times in recent years and decades – Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic the latest iterations playing havoc with business confidence, growth and the ability to plan. “[The recent] big focus was clearly on the downgrading of the Government’s growth forecast, which we would say was serious, but

John Foster speaking at the CBI Northern Ireland Annual Lunch

ultimately not a surprise,” John Foster, CBI chief policy and campaigns officer, told Ulster Business. “And it’s probably not a surprise for a couple of reasons. If you think about some of the kinds of cyclical, temporary factors that the economy is dealing with right now, interest rates being slightly higher than anticipated, increasing gas prices, that sort of global uncertainty that obviously played through.”

Asked, in general, whether the threat of tariffs from the US should mean firms from Northern Ireland, and across the UK, should begin to diversify or look elsewhere, Mr Foster said members are “not necessarily rushing to make big decisions”. “At the moment, what you have is a lot of uncertainty,” he said. Looking towards overall business growth and performance, Mr Foster said the CBI’s own indicator had witnessed a fall over a three month period. He said it’s clear that there is a “confidence problem” among firms in the private sector. “What firms are struggling with is to find the headroom to invest, and that’s before the changes that the government introduced come in… there are ways in which government can get extra growth momentum into the economy. “We’ve got the industrial strategy white paper coming up. “There’s a whole bunch of things that we think they can do to give firms a little bit of extra headroom. “But right now, if you are a business and you’re looking at your profit and loss spreadsheet, that line marked operating costs is going up, and it’s going up in no small part because of some government decisions that they have taken that’s incredibly challenging for them. “So that does mean that growth is going to be subdued. But of course, there are always ways in which we can get a bit more momentum and confidence back into the economy.” On the legacy of Brexit, asked about the

INTERVIEW

John Foster

remaining major key concerns which remain, John says the challenges in GB are “turbocharged” in Northern Ireland. “If you think about the challenge that we have around economic inactivity, we know that’s even more acute here,” he says. “If we think about some of the additional paperwork and customs declaration that is turbocharged in many ways in Northern Ireland, and again, that sort of exposure to tariffs can be even more intensified because of the kind of unique relationship.” Turning to areas of focus and improvement needed here to boost productivity and development, planning remains a key component of reform.

MAY 2025

John says it remains “one of the big issues”. “It’s about how long things take to progress”, he says. “I think it’s about looking at that and how we make changes to that. There is work going on, but we want to look at how we can have continuous improvement.” And looking ahead at the UK’s growth forecast and what can help drive the private sector, John says: “You can envisage growth coming from a number of different scenarios. “Firstly, I think what the UK has a more sure footed recognition of its place in the world. “Secondly would be the industrial strategy… I think this one has the genuine capacity to

be a bit of a game changer, because what it does is it sets out clear strategy, what are the areas of the economy where Great Britain and Northern Ireland can compete to win on the global stage. “And finally, if I think about the Government’s reform agenda (which includes planning) – it is one of the areas where the Government has made really good progress quickly, and that potential to be able to unlock delivery of big infrastructure projects, where we’ve been so uncompetitive for so many years. “It has the capacity to be able to really demonstrate some confidence, but also growth.” ■

NEWS

Manufacturing Month returns to showcase the strength of NI sector

Conor Quinn, AMIC, Maeve Monaghan, NOW Group, Alan Lavery, KPMG, Peter Creighton, Reliance, Rachel Doherty, Manufacturing NI, Gavin Campbell, Barclays, Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI, Natasha Sayee, Belfast Harbour, Chris Guy, Mills Selig, and High Sheriff Fiona McAteer, Belfast City Council

anufacturing Month is returning for the fifth year this month. Led by Manufacturing NI, the month-long initiative demonstrates the sector’s significant contribution to the economy and highlights the companies, workers, and leaders who make Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector a global success story. Sponsored by some of Northern Ireland’s leading companies and organisations including the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), Barclays, Go Succeed NI, KPMG, Mills Selig, and Reliance, the campaign aims to showcase the sector’s capabilities, from cutting-edge technology and sustainability initiatives to career pathways and skills development. Throughout the month, a series of events, factory tours, webinars, and networking opportunities will be delivered to celebrate achievements, discuss challenges, and explore future opportunities.

“We have extraordinary manufacturing businesses who collectively provide almost 100,000 direct and more than 150,000 fully sustained jobs in every community across Northern Ireland.” Stephen Kelly, chief executive of Manufacturing NI, said. “They dominate our R&D investment and external and export sales. “Manufacturing Month is a chance to celebrate the sector. It is a platform for manufacturers to not only share their achievements but also learn from each other and work together to capture the opportunities in an increasingly difficult economy. “Our ‘makers’ already provide good, regionally dispersed jobs and Manufacturing Month helps bring them together to collectively work to drive productivity, to decarbonise, and deal with the threats presented by a world embroiled in a trade war. “Manufacturing Month will include a

series of ‘Meet The Maker’ events, and the publication of a major piece of economic analysis, which unveils the impact the sector has on communities throughout Northern Ireland. Manufacturers, supply chains, supporting organisations, Councils, and others are encouraged to participate, with a media kit provided to help them get their good news out.” Manufacturing Month will be rounded off with the Anchor High Leadership Summit on May 29 at The Hilton Hotel, Belfast. Summit attendees, manufacturing leaders, and others will hear from a range of industry experts, guest speakers, and panellists who will share their experiences through a series of practical case studies. The summit will be followed in the evening by the prestigious Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame Awards, which recognises those who have shaped Northern Ireland’s industrial landscape. ■

BANKING & BUSINESS FINANCE

Where do interest rates go from here?

Sponsored by

BANKING & BUSINESS FINANCE

IMF chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas

With US trade tariffs hanging over the UK, the EU and wider economy’s head, what will that mean for interest rates here, inflation, and growth forecasts in the months and years to come. Ulster Business takes a closer look

‘W

ho would be a central banker?’ asks economist Andrew Webb. With inflation easing to its lowest level in months, a trajectory towards further lower interest rates seemed inevitable. However, it could be set to rise again – predicted to be the highest among the world’s advanced economies this year. So, what impact does that have on interest rates here? The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicated the Bank of England could cut interest rates three more times this year, despite its grappling with higher inflation. “With inflation easing to 2.6% in March, its lowest level since October 2024, it should be time for a sigh of relief and a clear path to lower interest rates,” Grant Thornton director, and chief economist, Andrew Webb, told Ulster Business. “Unfortunately, inflation is projected to rise again, potentially reaching nearly 4%

by summer, driven by higher energy bills, increased taxes, and rising wage costs. “Add to that a softer labour market across the UK due to Employer National Insurance increases and the fact that we are in the eye of a Trump-induced economic storm. “So, while it is safe to say that financial markets have priced in a 25 basis point rate cut in May, with expectations of two additional cuts later in the year, potentially bringing the Bank Rate down to 3.75% by the end of 2025, it really is anyone’s guess whether conditions permit it.” The IMF has predicted UK inflation would be the highest in the world’s advanced economies this year at 3.1% – due to higher bills, such as energy and water. And it’s warned US tariffs leading to global trade disruption and unprecedented uncertainty is set to significantly slow growth in economies around the world. The organisation said it is slashing its global

growth forecast by 0.5% this year, with nearly all countries seeing a downgrade. The latest World Economic Outlook report was produced under “exceptional circumstances”, with the IMF being forced to change its projections after US President Donald Trump unveiled a range of new and higher tariffs. The IMF’s top economist, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, said: “We are entering a new era

BANKING & BUSINESS FINANCE

The Bank of England

as the global system that has operated for the last 80 years is being reset. “While many of the scheduled tariff increases are on hold for now, the combination of measures and countermeasures has hiked US and global tariff rates to centennial highs. “For this reason, we expect that the sharp increase on April 2 in both tariffs and uncertainty will lead to a significant slowdown in global growth in the near term.”

MAY 2025

Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently pledged to “defend Britain’s interests” as she prepared to meet fellow finance ministers in Washington and push for a US trade deal. It comes amid worldwide economic uncertainty after the IMF said the impact of US President Donald Trump’s global tariffs will significantly slow growth in economies around the world, including the UK. The UK economy is predicted to grow

by 1.1% this year, 0.5% less than January’s forecast, partly reflecting tariffs, as well as weaker consumption amid higher inflation driven by bills and energy price hikes. While she champions Britain as a destination for investment, Ms Reeves will also hold her first face-to-face meeting with American counterpart Scott Bessant for talks on an economic deal between the US and UK. Securing such a deal with the US acquired >

BANKING & BUSINESS FINANCE

Andrew Webb

a new sense of urgency, when Mr Trump announced the sweeping tariffs on imports from the rest of the world. These included 10% levies on all UK goods – then the lowest level imposed on any country – along with 25% tariffs on steel and cars. While ministers have said talks on a deal remain ongoing, figures in the Trump administration have cast doubt on their prospect of success. Although Mr Trump rowed back from his initial announcement, instead instituting 10% tariffs on all countries except China, his senior economic adviser Kevin Hassett has suggested this is a “baseline” which would require an “extraordinary deal” for the president to go below.

Mr Trump himself has said he is in “no rush” to negotiate exceptions to the tariff regime due to the revenues he claimed the charges were generating. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank may need to lower interest rates further and shouldn’t exclude a larger reduction, Governing Council member Olli Rehn told Bloomberg News. “If in June inflation is projected to fall below our 2% inflation target over the medium term, then the right reaction is to cut rates further,” he said. Mr Rehn warned that financing conditions had tightened recently, and risks to economic growth had begun to be realised, the report said. He said that the ECB will make a

“comprehensive assessment and decide on rates” and that “there is so much pervasive uncertainty in the air that we have to move meeting by meeting”. Elsewhere, the European Central Bank has cut its key lending rates for the seventh time since last summer in a move that will benefit some mortgage holders but is likely to mean lower savings rates. The ECB decided to reduce its rates by 0.2% – its seventh rate reduction since it began cutting rates in June last year. This takes the rate which trackers are priced off down to 2.4%. It was 4.5% as recently as the end of 2023. Some 130,000 tracker holders are in line to directly benefit from the lower rate. ■

NEWS

Lakeland Dairies warns of ‘damage’ from reforms to UK inheritance tax

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn MP (centre) pictured at Lakeland Dairies last month alongside Peter McIlwaine and Teresa Lagan

major cross-border dairy co-op has warned that reforms to the UK’s inheritance tax (IHT) regime will “seriously damage” the business model of family farms. Lakeland Dairies, based in Monaghan and has major operations in Northern Ireland, raised its concerns during a visit by Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn to its food-service facility, which is based in Newtownards, Co Down. The facility manufactures products for 80 global markets. The co-op, which has milk suppliers on both sides of the Border, said it raised the importance of frictionless trade under the Windsor Framework, the need for a new UKEU Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement as well as concerns over the impact on family farms of inheritance tax reform at the

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meeting. Farms had been exempt from IHT but from April 2026, the levy will be payable on farms worth over £1m. Niall Matthews, chairperson of Lakeland Dairies, said the firm was “delighted” to welcome Mr Benn. “It was heartening to see the secretary of state so engaged and interested in the NI dairy industry,” he said. “As the largest dairy co-op in NI, and the second largest of the island, we know that the dairy sector is an economic powerhouse supporting thousands of family farms across the island. “Policies that protect our ability to trade seamlessly, support generational renewal, and futureproof our industry are vital. “There is a real opportunity for the UK and EU to work constructively on a new SPS

agreement, and we were encouraged to see that the Secretary of State is listening closely to the sector’s concerns. “These are not abstract issues, they go to the heart of our way of life, the sustainability of rural communities, and the future success of the dairy industry.” Keith Agnew, the co-op’s vice-chairperson, added: “Regarding the agricultural property relief (APR) inheritance tax issue, we made it very clear to the secretary of state that changes are necessary in order to not damage the very fabric of the sector. “A parent transfers the farm to their son or daughter to build upon their successes. The land inheritance tax, in its current form, has the potential to seriously damage the family farm model and the generational renewal we need to continue to move our world-class sector forward,” Mr Agnew said. n

BANKING & BUSINESS FINANCE

Helping small business navigate towards success

Robert Lynn, small business adviser at Danske Bank, with Judith Law, owner of Jude Law Boutique

Danske Bank’s team of dedicated business advisers continues to help companies across Northern Ireland to grow and navigate new challenges

s Danske Bank revealed it provided £750m in business lending to some of Northern Ireland’s best known firms last year, it’s telling that the bank highlighted the growth it has experienced in small business. The bank welcomed over 1,500 new small business customers during the year, with lending approvals for small businesses up 14% year-on-year. It’s well known that most businesses trading in Northern Ireland fall into the ‘small business’ category, over 80% of companies here have turnover of less than £1m, according to government figures.

That’s why Danske Bank has continued to prioritise support for small businesses in 2025 and has made it as easy as possible to sign up to become a customer. The bank can point to success stories across a range of industries when it comes to small business lending, supporting companies delivering valued and essential services in their communities. For example, as we come into the summer and visitors start to flock to the north coast, the ferry to Rathlin Island will become a focal point. Danske Bank supported Dunaverty Ltd when it bought the ferry in early 2023 and in the intervening two years as operator of the lifeline

service, it has increased its team to 18 staff and transported thousands of people to the island – enabling Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island to remain open for business for all who visit, live and work there. In Magherafelt, the bank’s small business team provided investment support to help fashion retailer Jude Law Boutique more than double the size of its store in the town, after a successful period of growth. To assist with the growth plans of owner Jude Law, the company also availed of financial support from Danske Bank to establish and develop its online store, alongside funding the move to the new premises, boosting the profile of and interest in the business. Danske Bank’s small business team has stories of many more businesses they have helped realise their growth ambitions. The team includes 18 business advisers based in local communities throughout Northern Ireland, alongside a small business Hub who together act as a first point of contact for business customers with borrowing requirements. All customers also have full access to Danske’s award-winning customer contact centre and the branch network for their day to day needs. Ryan Mawhinney, head of small business at Danske Bank, says small businesses will continue to be a major focus for the bank. “Our support for small business customers continues to grow and we are also actively looking to attract new customers. Helped by various switching offers we are proud to have added over 1,500 small business customers last year. “We have a strong proposition for small businesses locally, with both easy digital access to our solutions and local relationship managers on the ground to provide support. Customers continue to respond well to this model and we look forward to playing an active role in their success on an ongoing basis.” n

INTERVIEW

Lucinda Creighton speaking at the launch of Vulcan Consulting’s new Belfast office

Firms could ‘flip’ to NI amid ongoing tarih war with US Lucinda Creighton, a former Minister of State for European Affairs, says NI’s role as a place to business could only grow stronger if tougher tariffs are placed on the EU, along with its position under the Windsor Framework, but that US multi-nationals are likely pausing significant global investment amid ongoing uncertainty. She speaks to John Mulgrew 40

INTERVIEW

ig firms in the Republic could “flip” from south to north amid the ongoing tariff war with the US, according to one former Irish Government minister. While Lucinda Creighton, former Minister of State for European Affairs, says it’s not a scenario she wants to see, if the US hits the EU with larger tariffs, she believes Northern Ireland could see new opportunities, given its “unique” position And she says that’s regardless of the emerging tariff situation, given Northern Ireland’s position on the world stage under the Windsor Framework.

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“I do think that there is a unique position there to be leveraged,” she told Ulster Business. “[That’s] regardless of what the tariff situation looks like. Under the NI Protocol and Windsor Framework, that different countries would employ different tariffs to the EU… that is something which is going to be a factor in the future of Northern Ireland. “So many Irish businesses [which have operations] north and south, you could see some of that flipping. It could happen – I’m not advocating for it, but you could see an easier solution for companies as opposed to absorbing those tariffs.” US President Donald Trump announced a swathe of global tariffs, including an initial 20% on EU goods, and 10% for those coming from the UK. However, the majority of those are currently on hold. Ms Creighton was in Belfast to launch Vulcan Consulting’s new Belfast office, which will be headed by Conor Houston. She said Northern Ireland has an opportunity to grow its talent pool, with a focus now on skills rather than tax incentives for foreign direct investment. “We are busy and active with an office in Brussels, focused on the EU institutions,” she says. “With the UK gone from the EU, that direct link diminished for Northern Ireland, directly. We can play a role in building relationships with Northern Ireland companies, and with other organisations.” And with uncertainty in the air, globally – with potential tariffs on the way, but yet to be introduced – Ms Creighton says it’s likely that major investment decisions will be “on pause” for most US multi-national companies. “… it puts a freeze on things,” she says. “With turmoil comes opportunity. I was a minister during the financial crisis. If you look at how Ireland emerged, it was more competitive for FDI, and we made structural changes which benefited the economy and society – [we can] look at this as an opportunity.” Vulcan Consulting specialises in providing clients with strategic advice on navigating the political and regulatory landscapes in Ireland and across Europe. “[There is now] an opportunity for Europe to get its health in order,” she says. “[It’s] investing in defence… there is huge opportunity for the north, as it’s already [working] in security,

defence and cyber-security.” Asked if the potential impact on the economy could be more sizeable than the financial crisis in 2008, Ms Creighton said it could “potentially have a longer term impact”. “This is much more wide ranging across the entire economy and global world order with trade,” she says. “I’m still optimistic… there’s a long way to go and a painful few months. We have to hope that ultimately the US isn’t going to destroy the US economy, which they are on track to do at the moment.” On her own firm’s plans, Ms Creighton says it’s planning to extend its footprint and reach across the sectors. “[We are] working across the sectors – life sciences, medtech, digital, tech, semiconductors and veering into AI. “We are very much focused on the huge potential for an all-island approach to some of that, especially around energy, as a lot of it is connected – north to south, and east to west. “We have lots of UK clients and aspirations to grow in GB. Northern Ireland is a key focal point of that unique status under the Windsor Framework.” Speaking about the new Northern Ireland base, she says: “We have opened our Belfast office at a time of huge uncertainty for businesses in Northern Ireland, especially with the recent announcement of US tariffs and potential retaliation by the UK and the EU. “We have worked with many of Ireland’s leading companies including Amazon, Intel, Bank of America, Eli Lilly and Johnson & Johnson. We have experience in delivering influence and impact for these global companies at the most senior levels within the EU – and across the globe.” And Conor Houston, Vulcan Consulting’s Northern Ireland director, says we are “uniquely placed as a global gateway for trade”. “The Vulcan team can maximise the influence of Northern Ireland’s leading companies in Ireland, the EU, the US and beyond. There is huge opportunity to support companies seeking to develop an all-island presence. “With offices in Brussels, Dublin and now Belfast, I know that our team at Vulcan can bring the global insight, influence and perspective to navigate this fast-changing world and grow their businesses internationally.” ■

NEWS

Owner of NI logistics firm completes ‘seven-figure’ purchase of GB business

he Irish parent company of logistics firm in Northern Ireland has acquired Avon Freight as the company targets growth across the UK. While the value of the acquisition has not been disclosed, it’s understood the deal is worth a seven-figure sum. It is the first acquisition Primeline has completed in Great Britain, having acquired Global Cargo Solutions in Armagh last year. Avon Freight, based near Birmingham, recorded a pre-tax profit of over £2.8m in the year to June 2024, signalling the company would have attracted a strong valuation. Turnover at the business was also over £18m, with shareholders’ funds sitting at almost £5.5m. Tim Cummins, chief executive of Primeline Group, said the deal was an important part of its growth strategy. “The UK is a key market for many of our customers, so having a solid base there helps us serve them better and unlocks new opportunities,” he said. “We definitely see more growth potential in Great Britain,

particularly where it offers synergies to our business and customers.” Mr Cummins said Avon’s location near Birmingham was strategic for Primeline, making the companies a “great match”. He was confident the business would grow further off the back of the deal. Several challenges exist in the logistics market, with Mr Cummins highlighting increasing costs of labour, energy and insurance. Potential tariffs being introduced from the US have generated substantial uncertainty across all markets. Primeline is keeping a close eye on the tariff changes and the long-term implications for Ireland, the UK and EU. “The recent tariff activity hasn’t yet had a significant impact on our operations, however it’s something we’re monitoring closely,” Mr Cummins said. “We’re in constant contact with our customers and partners as we’re determined to prepare as much as possible for any potential disruptions. “We conduct a lot of scenario-planning

sessions and we’re focused on making sure our supply chain is flexible enough to handle adjustments. We’re confident that the nature of the integrated supply chain that we’ve developed across Ireland, the UK and the EU will also help us navigate any new requirements that arise. “Being proactive is key, and we’re confident that our scale and network put us in a good position to adapt.” Primeline Group, founded by Danny Geoghegan, employs a total of 1,200 people across its operations, with the company claiming it is Co Meath’s largest employer. The company’s fleet of vehicles make over 25,000 deliveries to more than 7,500 outlets around Ireland each week. Avon, founded in 1979, has grown to become a big player in providing warehousing and transport solutions in the UK, with daily freight services into Ireland. Its customer base includes clients in industrial, retail and fastmoving consumer goods. The English company employs more than 120 people and has three facilities in Birmingham. ■

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

London Calling Sponsored by

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

NI construction firms are doing top work in GB and NI. But is the lack of public funding at home causing their exodus? Pavel Barter takes a closer look

orthern Irish construction firms are competing with the best contractors in GB and the Republic of Ireland and winning prize projects. That’s the message from Jim Sammon, NI construction spokesman for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). “We should be very proud of those top three or four firms from Northern Ireland working in the UK. They are competing with the best and beating the best.” Top firms working outside the region include McAleer & Rushe, which has offices in Cookstown, Belfast and London, and has been working on purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) developments in

recent times, including: a 770-unit PBSA spanning 19-storeys in Wembley, London; a 669-bedroom building, across 12-storeys, in Holborn Viaduct; and a 267-bed PBSA in New Waverley North. McAleer & Rushe is also developing a 200-bedroom Maldron hotel next to Croke Park stadium in Central Dublin. A spokesperson for McAleer & Rushe told Ulster Business: “As a family-owned business renowned for having an exemplary skill set, delivering best in class schemes for a range of clients, McAleer & Rushe continues to perform well with controlled growth pushing turnover to £491m in 2024, with 2025 turnover projected at £530m.” Other leading firms include Gilbert-Ash,

whose portfolio includes the National Portrait Gallery in London, which was nominated for the 2024 Stirling Prize, and the £21m Ruby Zoe Hotel in Notting Hill, London. Graham, a Co Down headquartered construction company, has worked on landmark projects including Millers Quay, a £130m residential development at Wirral Waters in Birkenhead, and also an affordable housing scheme in Leeds. Dowds Group, based in Belfast and Ballymena, counts the Old Gramophone Works, London, and a Proton Beam Cancer Therapy Centre in Reading, among its recent projects. Oran Cleary, a member of the RICS NI board and associate director of Infrastructure at Turner & Townsend (a global professional

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

McAleer & Rushe is developing a student accommodation scheme in the City of London

Graham’s Miller Quay residential development at Wirral Waters

services company), says local contractors punch above their weight. “They’re all ambitious and trying to push the boundaries of where they work because of the lack of long-term security around work in Northern Ireland.” The RICS spokesmen contend the success of NI construction firms in GB and Ireland is partially the result of a lack of investment within NI. “Firms are going beyond Northern Ireland for work out of frustration as much as anything else,” Jim Sammon told Ulster Business. “Good, ambitious, well trained firms need outlets. They want to succeed. They want to grow. They can’t grow in Northern Ireland. So they’ve gone to Britain and Ireland and they’re growing there.” The foundations of

MAY 2025

Jim Sammon

Irish construction in the UK go back a century or more. “We have a huge tradition. So that’s why we’re so successful. We continue to be successful but sadly not on our own patch. Northern Ireland is losing out.” The most recent RICS Construction Monitor report from quarter four 2024 revealed that public housing, private housing and private industrials all fell flat. Surveyors reported that workloads in private commercial, infrastructure

and other public works declined (net balances of -3%, -8% and -15% respectively). A recent CEF Construction Survey paints the same picture. Of the NI-headquartered firms surveyed by the CEF, 40% of respondents said their profit margins were worse in 2024 than 2023. Respondents gave three reasons as to why the GB and Ireland markets were more attractive than the NI market: a more secure pipeline, stronger profit margins, and more company growth. “The government is throwing money at the health sector in GB,” Jim Sammon says. “Whatever is needed is being built. The Republic of Ireland has a better pipeline [than NI]. Construction firms from Northern Ireland can go there knowing there will be years of work because government priorities in Ireland revolve around upgrading its infrastructure and creating housing. Politically, people can see this demand is going to last in Ireland.” Insufficient public sector budgets are leading to a limited procurement pipeline in NI. “That means there’s less construction than there should be,” Jim says. Oran Cleary continues: “Public sector clients in Northern Ireland are very ambitious around what they want to deliver in upgrading and enhancing public services in Northern Ireland. The problem is >

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

One of Graham’s affordable housing schemes at Dyecoats in Leeds

they need their budgets increased. Translink, for example, haven’t got the budget they hoped they would get in 2025, so they’re now rebalancing their books to see what they can deliver.” The impact of underfunding to NI Water is holding back development in private homes. “Housing developers recently came out as a collective and stated that land is blocked because of a lack of water infrastructure,” Oran says. “NI Water is struggling from a budgetary perspective to deliver the infrastructure required to support additional housing. Developers are working towards meeting housing targets but are facing issues around getting the investment.” Projects are getting clogged up in the planning system. “We have too much bureaucracy in Northern Ireland,” Jim says. “The public sector is overweight and inefficient and that slows down investment.” NI firms are starting to look beyond GB and RoI. Some contractors are branching into Europe – Scandinavia, Germany, Spain – particularly mechanical and electrical

subcontractors within the data centre sector. Vertiv, a major employer in the northwest with factories in Co Donegal, is active in the US market. But fewer firms are likely to venture across the Atlantic due to uncertainty around tariffs. RICS has called on government to reconsider their delivery strategy in order to unlock potential within the NI region. Oran Cleary wonders: “Where is the money best spent? How can it be delivered as efficiently as possible? My recommendation would be focusing on where the money needs to be allocated to maximise benefits to the local economy. NI Water probably would be a great example of where to put [investment].” Both RICS and CEF have called for a multiyear budget. “The annual budget stifles longterm planning and limits the opportunity to be more efficient,” Oran says. “Other regions within the UK and Republic of Ireland have the benefit of multi-year budgets and ways of generating revenue to improve their economy. I think that’s something we’ve had an issue with here in Northern Ireland to be honest – it

hasn’t been tackled.” In the meantime, overseas clients continue to be impressed by the quality of work from NI firms. “A lot of the clients I deal with in the Republic are targeting resources in Northern Ireland purely because of their skill set,” Oran says. “We have a lot of quantity surveyors on our team who are trained in Belfast and supporting projects in the Republic of Ireland. In offices in London or abroad, you’ll find people who went to Ulster University, and did quantity surveying and travelled further afield and hold key roles on large projects.” However, with a steady stream of work in other regions there is an inevitable drain of talent required for local projects. “If there was the same pipeline of work in Northern Ireland, those people wouldn’t travel at all,” Oran says. “If we had the same level of investment in Northern Ireland, there would be no issues. “But until we have a consistency of approach from government, I think it’s going to stay that way.” ■

NEWS

PRM’s Philip Morrow and Lynne Morrow

Co Antrim logistics firm creating 40 jobs amid £15m expansion

Northern Ireland distribution company is creating 40 new jobs as part of a major £15m expansion. PRM Group, which transports chilled and frozen foods, will build a new facility at its Lisburn headquarters, for which it has received planning permission. The firm, which has been in business since 1988, delivers over 300,000 cases of food every week and has locations in Lisburn, Dublin, Derry and Dromore, Co Down. It delivers brands including Miller, Ferrero, Clandeboye Estate Yogurt and Cookstown to retailers such as Tesco, Dunnes and Marks & Spencer. “Our expansion is proof of the hard work and dedication of our team and the strong relationships we have built as a trusted partner with our suppliers and customers over our three and a half decades in business,” Philip Morrow, chief executive and founder, said. “We are not just a distribution company, we

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offer a complete suite of services under one roof, making it easier for brands to access the all-Ireland market. This type of holistic service has become highly sought after in the postBrexit and Windsor Framework environment, and our strategic location enables us to support our partners perfectly. These new and significant investment plans reflect not only the demand in what we offer but demonstrate our confidence in the future and our commitment to providing clarity and confidence in the complex, fast-moving world of food retail.” PRM says it has navigated the challenges posed by Brexit and the Windsor Framework, transforming potential obstacles into opportunities. The business set up a dedicated Brexit team to handle customs procedures and paperwork, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining efficient operations. “This proactive approach has enhanced PRM’s ability to offer a solution for trade

between Great Britain, Ireland and Europe,” the firm says. “As well as being a one stop shop for chilled and frozen brands investing in the local market, PRM is also focused on sustainability, taking significant steps to reduce its carbon footprint.” Lynne Morrow, director, says: “For over 35 years PRM Group has quietly built a strong client base, representing some of the biggest brands in the chilled and frozen foods market. “Last year alone, we delivered 16 million cases of products across the island of Ireland and made 25,000 customer deliveries. With significant investments in technology, vehicles, and our people, I believe it’s time to highlight who we are and what we do. More importantly, we want to showcase the exciting career opportunities we offer in the thriving world of the FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) industry. We have an exciting future ahead of us.” ■

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION

Savills Ireland strengthens investment in NI with the acquisition of Osborne King

Gavin Clarke, director, Osborne King, Peter Callender, finance and operations director, Savills Ireland, Ben Turtle, head of Savills NI, Mark Reynolds, managing director, Savills Ireland, Dave McClure, managing director, Osborne King, and Ruth Morrison, finance director, Osborne King

avills Ireland has announced a significant investment in the Northern Ireland property market through its acquisition of Osborne King, a respected and well-established commercial property agency with 36 employees. This acquisition enhances Savills presence in Northern Ireland and strengthens its position as the largest real estate adviser on the island of Ireland, with more than 450 employees. The acquisition of Osborne King aligns with Savills broader growth strategy across Ireland, where it already has offices in Belfast, Cork, and Dublin. Osborne King brings significant expertise in commercial leasing, sales, property management, and valuations, adding further depth to Savills service offering in Northern Ireland. As part of the acquisition, Osborne King’s staff will relocate to Savills Belfast office at Longbridge House, Waring Street, in the coming months. This move will coincide with the official rebranding of Osborne King as

Savills, ensuring a seamless transition for both clients and employees. “Osborne King’s deep local market expertise and strong reputation for excellence align seamlessly with Savills comprehensive service offerings,” Mark Reynolds, managing director, Savills Ireland, said. “This combination allows the firm to deliver more tailored and innovative property solutions to clients in Northern Ireland. Additionally, the acquisition will enhance Savills recurring revenue streams by expanding its property management and valuation service lines, ensuring that the firm can meet the diverse needs of clients across all sectors. “This acquisition also highlights Savills confidence in the Northern Ireland economy and reflects its commitment to further investing in the region’s commercial property sector, demonstrating its dedication to long-term growth and client success.” Ben Turtle, head of Savills Northern Ireland, said: “Osborne King has long been a respected

name in the Northern Ireland property market, and their expertise aligns perfectly with our ambitions to continue delivering best-inclass property services across the region. This acquisition enables us to enhance our offerings and support our clients with an even broader range of solutions in what is an increasingly dynamic and competitive market.” David McClure, managing director of Osborne King, said: “Joining forces with Savills marks a significant moment for Osborne King. Our combined resources and shared commitment to client-focused service will allow us to deliver even greater value to our clients while providing new growth opportunities for our staff.” Gavin Clarke, director at Osborne King, added: “This is an exciting new chapter for Osborne King. Becoming part of Savills not only enhances our capabilities and market reach but also opens up significant opportunities for our talented team. We look forward to combining our strengths to further elevate our client service in Northern Ireland.” ■

EXPORTS

US President Donald Trump unveils his tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House

Irish exporters losing orders and cutting stah hours amid Trump tarih chaos

rish firms that rely on the US market are already cutting orders to suppliers and working hours in response to Donald Trump’s tariffs, according to Ibec. The evidence of a hit to the ‘real economy’ follows days of convulsions on financial markets that saw trillions of euro wiped off the value of global stocks followed by a spike in borrowing costs on the bond markets, including for the US itself. Oil prices recently fell below $60 a barrel, a clear sign investors think demand for energy will fall to recessionary levels. Shares rose in the US after president Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on much of the new tariff regime. He cut the import tax to 10% for most countries in the meantime, though piled more tariffs on China. It came as businesses are already moving to reposition for the new regime. Irish employers group Ibec said the impact is being felt first by exporters. “While the current US tariff list affects about 1% of Irish exports, firms that are heavily

dependent on the US market are already feeling the impact through reduced and cancelled orders, which has led to shortened working hours in some cases,” a spokesman said. Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Government is already hearing from exporters who are seeing orders from the US “slowing, or even drying up entirely, putting valuable and skilled jobs at risk”. The share price of several pharma companies with operations in Ireland – including Ely Lilly, Pfizer and Merck – slumped in early trading on the US stock market on Wednesday before rebounding following the news of changes to the tariff rates. Mr Martin said he has spoken to leaders in the pharma sector and discussed how best to navigate the challenges. “I know how concerned they are – it is not a sector in which production can be turned on and off overnight,” he said. Irish Medtech, a representative group for the sector, has asked Government here for practical support. “With over 48,000 people directly

employed in medtech in Ireland, it’s essential the Government stands ready to step in with immediate emergency employee and business continuity supports to those companies particularly impacted by a sudden deterioration in their trading conditions or trading volumes with the US resulting from these tariffs,” said Eoghan Ó Faoláin, director of the group. Meanwhile, the EU hit back with a package of tariffs on m21bn worth of US goods. The EU did say the countermeasures can be “suspended at any time, should the US agree to a fair and balanced negotiated outcome”. The US and China are now in a full-scale trade war, with US tariffs on goods from China rising to 125%. Dan O’Brien, chief economist with the Institute of International and European Affairs, said an American U-turn always looked possible, given the scale of market reaction, so the EU’s best move may be to do nothing, for now, in terms of its own retaliatory measures. “If I were making this decision, I would say sit back and take weeks and possibly months on this,” he said. ■

EXPORTS

Trump foolhardiness makes Brexit pale into insignificance

MAY 2025

Has any special relationship with the US disappeared for good following his tariff war?

EXPORTS

Colin Lewis, former deputy Permanent Secretary for the Department for the Economy, says the days of a ‘special relationship’ with the US are now firmly over

nd there was me thinking that Brexit was the single best example of national self-harm. How wrong was I. It completely pales in comparison to the impact of what is currently happening in the US. It has been trumped by Trump. President Trump’s economic policy announcements over recent days, and now U-turns, all of which have major global trade and geopolitical implications, have seemingly done nothing to ‘Make America Great Again.’ Financial markets have plummeted, greatly diminishing the value of savings and pension plans of millions of people. Further, the US economy in particular, and global economies more widely, still face the real prospect of economic recession leading to the likelihood of higher prices, increasing inflation, a downturn in investment and widespread job losses. It is hard to know if the president’s ‘Liberation Day’ announcement was the product of economic stupidity or illiteracy. In my opinion, it is probably a bit of both, but aided further by the actions of a narcissistic, dangerous, reality TV personality hungry to wield power. The end result is that Trump’s ‘America First’ mantra is now likely to morph into ‘America Alone,’ and that the US will no longer be regarded as a trusted ally and partner across the globe. Even I know that a national trade deficit is more a reflection of a successful and thriving economy, and that the multinational integrated system of trade that has been a feature of our daily lives post-Second World War has been integral to sustained growth in prosperity across the globe. It has led to the US becoming

the world’s leading economic superpower with a GDP per capita far higher than any other major country in the world. Further, it is fanciful to think that onshoring thousands of manufacturing jobs will improve the economic wealth of the US. Does the US really want to make trainers, plastic toys, T-shirts etc? In any event, what company is going to invest millions in a new manufacturing facility with the intention of making a required financial return over 10 to 15 years if it doesn’t know if tariffs will be on or off from one day to the next. It is simply bonkers. But we are where we are, and countries now need to recalibrate to adapt and then to mitigate the economic shock. The UK has thus far reacted in a calm and considered fashion and is no doubt doubling down on efforts to agree a mutually beneficial trade deal with the US. One thing is for certain. Given the economic uncertainty created by Trump, national governments, including the UK, will undoubtedly now work to apply industrial policies aimed at promoting the development, growth and competitiveness of specific sectors or industries within their economies. Indeed, the UK Government has already signalled an intent to bring forward elements of its industrial strategy focused on fostering long-term economic growth by supporting high-growth sectors and creating a stable environment for businesses to invest. I would not be surprised if this were to result in some sort of economic package aimed at protecting international competitiveness. While our own Executive has limited

ability to pivot and react to the challenge, it nonetheless needs to begin to take clear steps to properly address and resource its Programme for Government commitment to ‘grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy.’ It cannot any longer postpone the development of a long-term industrial

EXPORTS

strategy, produced in collaboration between government, businesses and educational institutions to help boost productivity. NI badly needs more innovative companies that can produce goods and services more efficiently and at lower costs, particularly now in a new world trade order. The Executive must grasp the nettle and lead a concerted plan to invest

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in technology, workforce development and operational excellence in particular, if it is to assist NI businesses thrive on the global stage. The NI economy has benefited hugely from US investment and trade over many decades. As I have written before, aided by political influence from US administrations, its impact was pivotal in assisting NI’s transformation

towards modernity and restoring normality. But the days of a ‘special relationship’ are now firmly over. President Trump cares nothing for long-standing trading partners and allies. It is all about the ‘deal’ and making money. He appears to think trade is about ripping people off. We probably have seen the last of US Special Trade Envoys for Northern Ireland. n

EXPORTS

Response to deep and enduring change in global trade key to NI’s future success Paul Mac Flynn, economist and senior director at the Nevin Economic Research Institute (Neri), looks at the potential impact of US tariffs on the UK and EU

he announcement of a new pending US tariff schedule represents a seismic shift in the global economy. This is not an attempt to over-dramatise the events, but is an attempt to highlight the deeper, more enduring change that has occurred. We have gone from a world where global free trade was the dominant economic operating system to one where it is an outdated, almost quaint, pipe dream. At the time of writing the US has announced a 20% tariff on EU goods, on hold and revised down to 10%, and a 10% tariff on UK goods. The EU announced Response to deep and enduring change in global trade key to NI’s future success retaliatory but had suspended them at the time of writing.

It may very well be that by the time you read this article, that announcement may have changed, or been cancelled or announced again. This uncertainty is what has fundamentally changed. So much of our industry was predicated not just on a liberalised global trading system, but on the assumption that global free trade, however elusive, was the unquestioned, ultimate destination of the global economy. Both of these assumptions have been fundamentally undermined by the events. There are immediate impacts to be reckoned with and the question that naturally arises is what this might mean for economic growth and employment here. The effect of these tariffs could be significant for Northern Ireland, but the greater impact may actually come

The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said the EU would put the reciprocal tariffs on hold

indirectly from the turbulence that might hit the Irish economy. In 2022, Northern Ireland exported £1.5bn worth of goods to the US, which represented just over 1.9% of our total economic output. By contrast, in 2024, the Republic of Ireland exported just over m73bn worth of goods to the US, representing about 14% of their economic output. US-owned firms in Northern Ireland accounted for just under 32,000 employees in 2024 or about 3.6% of total employment. In the Republic of Ireland, US firms account for just under 220,000 employees, or just under 8.5% of overall employment. When assessing the effect of any economic disruption it is necessary not only to look at direct impacts, but also indirect impacts. The firms that will be affected initially by the imposition of these tariffs have interconnections with lots of other firms. Disruption tends to spread throughout the system and in this way, a larger disruption in the Republic of Ireland is likely to have an impact here. That being said, the effect of the imposition of these tariffs will not be an immediate implosion. Even if we end up in a worst case scenario, our firms that export to the US may be able to diversify into other markets and it may take many years for US firms to re-shore or alter their operations here in light of the tariffs. The memory of the 2007/08 financial crash is very raw and its perfectly understandable that people may wish to draw comparisons. We had far greater exposure both directly and indirectly to the financial crisis and its effects were sudden and substantial. This crisis is a very different animal and our response to it will be very different also. ■

NEWS

Inflation slows again to 2.6% after drop in fuel prices I nflation has slowed down for the second month in a row on the back of falling petrol prices, according to official figures. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) also said a drop in the price of computer games contributed to the lower inflation reading during March. It was a steeper fall than predicted by economists, who had expected a reading of 2.7% for March, and marks the lowest reading since December. The rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation eased to 2.6% for the month, from 2.8% in February, the statistics body said. The bigger-than-expected drop in inflation will be positively received by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, as it moves closer to the Bank of England’s 2% target rate.

The reading is also likely to increase calls for interest rates – which are typically kept high to help bring inflation down – to be reduced from their current rate of 4.5% at the Bank’s next rate-setting meeting in May. The bigger-than-expected drop in inflation will be positively received by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, as it moves closer to the Bank of England’s 2% target rate. The reading is also likely to increase calls for interest rates – which are typically kept high to help bring inflation down – to be reduced from their current rate of 4.5% at the Bank’s next rate-setting meeting in May. However, economists have predicted that inflation will shoot higher in April after a raft of consumer bill increases – such as energy and water prices – as well as the potential impact of higher taxes and labour costs for businesses,

which are likely to pass some costs on to customers. “Inflation eased again in March, driven by a variety of factors including falling fuel prices and unchanged food costs compared with the price rises we saw this time last year,” ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner, said. “The only significant offset came from the price of clothes, which rose strongly… following the unusual decrease in February.” Motor fuel prices were 5.3% lower for the month, marking the biggest decline for four months. It was partly driven by a fall in the average price of petrol by 1.6p per litre between February and March to stand at 137.5p per litre. It was down from 144.8p per litre in March 2024. The ONS also said prices in the recreation and culture sector rose at their slowest level for more than three years in March, with a 2.4% increase. This was partly driven by a fall in the cost of video games for the month. Meanwhile, clothing and footwear prices rose again for the month as many retailers reduced discounting, with a 1.1% increase after a surprise drop in February. “Inflation falling for two months in a row, wages growing faster than prices, and positive growth figures are encouraging signs that our Plan for Change is working, but there is more to be done,” Ms Reeves said. The ONS’s preferred measure of inflation, Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers’ housing (CPIH), eased back to 3.4% for March, from 3.7% the previous month. Meanwhile, the Retail Prices Index (RPI) rate of inflation declined to 3.2% from 3.4%. n

GROCERY & FOOD

The rising cost of hospitality

GROCERY & FOOD

Why food hospitality businesses in Northern Ireland are being forced to reappraise their operations due to supplier costs and other increases, writes Pavel Barter

he rising cost of doing business is reshaping Northern Ireland’s hospitality industry, according to restaurant, café and deli owners in Belfast. Increased costs are leading to closures,

reduced opening hours, limited investment, more expensive and reformulated menus, which will result in a transformed food market, they suggest. “Multi-nationals are going to cannibalise the business,” says Eamon McCusker, the owner of two Chubby Cherub restaurants and an AMPM in Belfast. “Hospitality has been one of the best things we’ve always had to offer. We have such a diverse range of product and people and independent venues. We are going to end up with a soulless hospitality offering within the city.” In April, employer National Insurance (NI) payments increased from 13.8% to 15%, with the lower threshold on salary payments

falling from £9,100 a year to £5,000. At the same time, the minimum wage for workers aged over 21 rose from £11.44 to £12.21. And 2025 was “always going to be a difficult year” for hospitality employers, Eamon says, but the incremental increase in the price of supplier products has created a “fear factor” within the industry. Beef price hikes are particularly noticeable, says Colin Neill of Hospitality Ulster. “More farmers seem to be getting out of beef production. Therefore, the price is going up.” Eamon McCusker says he would need to sell steak at his restaurants “at £46 or £48 to make the margin we made five years ago. “We’ve tried to keep our steak within a

Input costs are increasing right across the hospitality sector

GROCERY & FOOD

Daniel Duckett

reachable price range but it’s getting to the stage where we’re going to have to think, ‘Can we keep this on the menu?’” A few weeks ago, Lazy Claire Patisserie, a Frenchstyle bakery in Belfast posted a list of increases in its input costs. T45 (strong) flour, which was 86p per kilo in 2021, now costs £1.52 (a 77% increase). Dark chocolate has risen £7 to £10.22 across the same period. Caster sugar is up to £1.16 per kilo from 84p in 2021. Dairy has seen the biggest leap at all for the patisserie: from £3.88 per kilo in 2021 to £7.80 today: a 101% increase. “Across the board, everything has gone up,” says Daniel Duckett, chef and owner at Lazy Claire. “The only thing that I can think

MAY 2025

of that’s remained fairly stable is vanilla… but it was already quite expensive.” Jonny Taylor, of Shed Bistro on Belfast’s Ormeau Road and Saga on the Malone Road, spends much of his week juggling supplier costs: “You have to be playing suppliers off against each other constantly. They’re all increasing prices.” Supplier price increases combine with energy costs, business rates and labour cost increases, to create a perfect storm for food hospitality businesses. Hospitality differs from other industries and sectors in that it is labour intensive and can’t automate. Hospitality Ulster says that larger operators are freezing recruitment in order to be more efficient; others are cutting staff. Eamon McCusker, who employs 107 staff across his outlets, says he will have to find an extra £270,000 in 2025 to cover additional costs. “Ten years ago, staff costs were somewhere between 25% and 30%. That would have been a standard for the industry. Today standard costs are between 35% and 40%. Some people are operating staff costs around 50%.” One inevitable result has been a rise in prices that customers are experiencing at check-out.

“Most of my industry colleagues have put their prices up by 10% and 60% on beverage just to stay still. The kind of environment that we’re all working within at the moment is pretty scary to be honest,” says Eamon McCusker. Lazy Claire Patisserie has increased their coffee from £3.30 to £3.60. “We got notified by our coffee supplier that prices would be going up 19% at the start of April so all of our coffee prices have gone up,” says Daniel Duckett. “But we’ve traditionally been cheaper than the market for coffee.” Shed Bistro and Saga have also increased some of their prices, although Jonny Taylor is frustrated when people compare the price of their steaks to supermarkets. “You are paying for the person who cooks it, the person who takes the order; the person who cleans up after you...” Food hospitality businesses are conscious that Northern Ireland was one of the worst regions hit by the cost of living crisis. Consumers in the region have a low discretionary disposable income spend, so business owners tread carefully around price increases. Honesty and transparency appears >

GROCERY & FOOD

Colin Neill

to work at Lazy Claire Patisserie. Daniel Duckett received “supportive” comments from customers following his Instagram post about supplier price hikes. “When you break it down for them, they really appreciate that,” he says. “If we engage with the customer, let them know what’s going on and then they will understand.” Businesses are exploring other ways to cover costs. Last year, Jonny Taylor rebranded restaurant Blank, a casual fine-dining experience, to Saga: “It’s still a nice restaurant but it’s not anywhere near as fine dining as it was. [Blank] just wasn’t sustainable.” Jonny has introduced a burger night at Shed for a more affordable menu. Daniel Duckett reformulated his menu, taking out one specific pastry (a pecan tart) that was squeezing his margins. Eamon McCusker removed a number of products from the menu at his outlets. Another solution is to reduce working hours.

Lazy Claire Patisserie is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Colin Neill of Hospitality Ulster says some business operators have been forced to cut down to a four-day week. “If you’re in Belfast on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and there’s nobody open or limited choice it has an impact on the wider tourism product.” Some businesses are being forced to stop reinvestment which can be a death knell. If you’re not growing, you’re dying,” says Eamon McCusker. Hospitality Ulster is calling for parity of competition between Northern Ireland and other parts of the UK. In England, businesses have a 75% discount on business rates bills; in Wales this figure is 40%. The 13.5% hospitality VAT in the Republic of Ireland, soon to be reduced to 9%, is thought to put NI (where the rate is 20%) at a further disadvantage. Hospitality Ulster is lobbying Westminister

for a similar reduction: “We have called on our Finance Minister to join us in a joint campaign to meet with the Chancellor around reduced VAT. There’ is support in England, Scotland, Wales for Northern Ireland for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. So it could be done here in a closed test for a few years. There are ongoing plans for Northern Ireland to be a special economic zone - and a VAT test could be part of that.” The alternative, believe local hospitality business leaders, will be an underwhelming food and drink hospitality offering. “The only places that’ll be left will be the big soulless corporations with generic menus. No creativity. No invention. No nothing,” says Jonny Taylor. Eamon McCusker called for a working group “to make real, proper changes with the help of the Executive. We need momentum. There’s too much talk and too much time being wasted.” ■

GROCERY & FOOD

Lisburn firm Andrew Ingredients celebrates 80 years of baking history success

isburn based Andrew Ingredients, a leading supplier of baking ingredients in UK & Ireland, is celebrating its 80th year in business. Since it was founded by W.H (Bill) Andrew in 1945, the company has grown to become the cornerstone of the NI baking industry, providing top-quality products, exceptional service and expertise to the baking and food industry. From humble beginnings as a small familyrun business started at a site in Corporation Street Belfast, moving to Hillsborough and onto the current Lisburn location. Today, it employs 55 staff with a customer base that has grown to feature a diverse range of businesses. That includes small artisan producers, through to large-scale industrial manufacturers across the food industry in UK and Ireland ranging from bakeries, food processors, pie manufacturers, ice cream producers, pet treat manufacturers, the spirits and beverages sector, among others. Dedicated to supporting innovation and growth in the bakery and food industry, over the years Andrew Ingredients has collaborated with reputable European and local suppliers to curate a comprehensive range of exceptional quality ingredients to empower customers to craft outstanding products. This includes flour, bread, cake and confectionery mixes, chocolate, icings, fillings, dried fruit, gluten free products, vegan products and much more. Throughout its eight decades in operation, the company has consistently stayed at the forefront of the baking supplies sector, adapting to changing market needs and consumer demands. As a response to the everevolving world of baking and food production, the company recently developed the WorkWith innovation hub. The Test Bakery & Kitchen, named after Andrew Ingredients founder W.H Andrew (Bill’s Bakery), is designed to provide comprehensive, hands-on solutions and expert

Tim Andrew of Andrew Ingredients

advice to bakery and food businesses. Committed to staying ahead of the curve, as well as embracing opportunities and meeting challenges, the company will continue its focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Future plans include expansion of its range of sustainable and ethically sourced products, ensuring bakers can continue to create high-quality goods while minimising their environmental impact, and investing in digital solutions to improve the customer experience and enhance their supply chain operations. “When my father started Andrew Ingredients in 1945 his ethos was to create a business that was like a family to its employees and that ethos stands today,” Tim Andrew, chair of Andrew Ingredients, said. “We are incredibly proud of our talented staff who have helped shape Andrew

Ingredients into what it is today. Their passion for the industry, commitment to quality, and dedication to customer service are key factors to our success. We couldn’t have achieved this milestone without their hard work and loyalty.” And managing director of Andrew Ingredients, John Graham said: “We’re looking forward to the future. The next 80 years will be just as exciting as the first. We’re committed to being a reliable partner for our customers, supporting them with the best suppliers, products and services, and ensuring that we continue to contribute to the success of the baking and food industry for many years to come.” n For further information visit andrewingredients.com. Follow the 80th anniversary year on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn

GROCERY & FOOD

Caffe Nero eyeing two new Belfast coffee shops C offee chain Caffe Nero is expanding and planning two new cafes in Belfast, it can be revealed. The UK-owned business is currently seeking a store manager for its first café on the Belmont Road in east Belfast. And the firm has also recently advertised posts for shift leader at a new store location on the Cregagh Road. It already operates almost two dozen cafes in Belfast alone, with a further sizeable reach outside the city and across Northern Ireland. Caffe Nero has recently launch a new spot at Longwood Retail Park in Newtownabbey. It was also revealed the chain is now planning further sites across Northern Ireland, which could include “drive-to/drive-thru” pods with outdoor seating. It’s now seeking suitable sites across the region. Meanwhile, new coffee brands have expanded operations into Northern Ireland over the last few month, while others have

opened new spots. UK coffee brand Black Sheep recently opened its first café at Pearl Assurance Building close to Belfast City Hall. Black Sheep was launched in London in 2013, and has now grown to over 100 coffee shops in the UK, the US and the Middle East. Alongside its stores, the company also sells its own blends of coffee directly to consumers. It describes itself as having a “commitment to sustainability and ethically sourced beans.” The Belfast store will be operated by hospitality company Bannon and Bannon Property Holdings under Black Sheep CoffeeIreland. Bannon and Bannon says the Belfast launch of Black Sheep is the start of further openings across Ireland. Anthony Morrissey, media and marketing director at Bannon and Bannon, said: “We are delighted to be able to bring the unique Black Sheep Coffee experience to Belfast as part of a broader expansion strategy across Ireland over

the coming years. “We have watched the rapid development of Black Sheep Coffee throughout the UK in recent years and are proud to be leading its evolution in Ireland. “This is just the start of a planned expansion programme north and south and already we are in advanced discussions with another prime location in Belfast which we will hopefully be in position to open in summer 2025. And Belfast coffee shop Neighbourhood has now started trading from its new home in the city’s Cathedral Quarter. The business, led by Ryan Crown and Oisín McEvoy, is now open at 61 Donegall Street, which it described as its “forever home”. They claimed the venue brought “a warm Belfast welcome with thoughtful design and a delicious new menu packed with previous favourites and some new must-try dishes”. The menu includes Turkish eggs, chorizo hash, banana bread French toast, porridge, pastries and “expertly brewed” coffee. n

SPORT & TOURISM

The Rory ehect: drive on to attract US golf visitors after Major success Rory McIlroy’s legions of affluent American fans are a huge target market for NI tourism. James McNaney hears about plans to grow the sector further following star’s Masters triumph

t was the end of a 16 year wait for Rory McIlroy to finally put on the famous green jacket. During his rollercoaster final round at the famous course, the gallery was shouting for the Holywood man, with the genteel surroundings for the most middle-class of sports echoing with chants. And this was despite his playing partner being Bryson DeChambeau, an American. For a growing number of businesses, attracting American fans of the golfer to come here is an important part of the tourism industry. The Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2019 helped kick-start golf tourism here. Over 237,000 attended the tournament, and generated 128,000 commercial bed nights. Tourism NI estimates the tournament brought a combined economic and media benefit of over £100m. It also boosted international visitor numbers and spending. Tourism NI estimates that before 2019, around 18,000 people travelled here for golf, spending roughly £31m per year. By last year that number was up 61% to 29,000, with spending increased by 148% to £77m. According to John McGrillen, chief executive of Tourism NI, The Open also highlighted challenges in meeting the new

demand from tourists. “One thing that people identified was the fact that there was a dearth of quality accommodation that met the needs of those high net-worth individuals who were coming from the United States and further afield to play golf here. “So, essentially, what people saw was a gap in the market.” Recent years have seen a number of investments in hotels aimed at the market, often located near famous courses. The Slieve Donard was purchased by AJ Capital Partners from the Hastings family and received a £16m renovation. It is run under the Marine and Lawn brand of hotels, which focuses on golf tourists interested in playing Royal County Down. Andras House have opened their own luxury location in Portrush in recent months, with the Marcus ready to accept bookings for fans coming to watch The Open in July, or to play the course in the weeks afterwards. Even closer to Royal Portrush is the Dunluce, a new 35-room hotel which overlooks the fourth fairway of the course. Manager Stephen Meldrum says that Dunluce Lodge’s opening is a “legacy” The Open in 2019. He said: “Our owners fell in love with the amazing golf that we have to offer on these shores, and also with the local people that make up the community of Portrush.”

Mr Meldrum says the hotel is targeting the “US-based golfing market”, and the features it offers give an indication of what these “affluent” tourists are interested in. He said these type of guests are looking for an “authentic experience” on trips. “They want to really immerse themselves in the local culture and what the local area has to offer, so, it’s about really delivering a great, authentic level of service,” he said. “We’re making sure that the product and the offering that we’re delivering is obviously of a very high standard and comparable to other great areas around the world.” Tourist bodies north and south have worked hard to attract golf tourists to Ireland. Tourism NI’s two-person golf team work to bring lucrative US golf tour operators to the island, and try to promote offerings with “familiarisation” trips for journalists who cover the sport. They also attend the PGA show in Orlando, Florida, every year, making contacts within the international industry. Mr McGrillen sees golf tourism as providing a “multiplier effect” for businesses not connected to the sport. “The guys who come to play golf are big spenders. They will go on whiskey tours, they will eat at up-market restaurants,” he explained. “Tourism Ireland is starting to target that luxury end of the market, because it does deliver a greater economic footprint. “If you look at it from a sustainability point of view, the more spend per mile travelled, the more sustainable you become as a tourism destination. “Ireland is relatively expensive, we don’t expect to see the visitors who would be

SPORT & TOURISM

Rory McIlroy celebrates winning the 2025 Masters

typically going to Benidorm coming here – there is definitely a niche. “I think we’ve got something special to offer that market in terms of our food and our drink and our heritage, and increasingly in our hotel provision. “That is a market that both tourism Ireland and ourselves would see growth in in the future.” Growth may be expected, but events can get in the way. The world’s most famous golf fan is doing no favours to the international movement of goods and people. US President Donald Trump’s tariff policies and hard borders are already driving down tourist entries to the US. Mr McGrillen says there’s a sense of

MAY 2025

a “divide between Europe and and the US” currently, alongside some unhelpful macroeconomic changes. He added: “The fact that the dollar has devalued is probably a worrying factor. “We’ve seen huge growth come from the United States post-Covid as a result of the good exchange rate. “If people start to worry about their pensions if the stock market is oscillating, that helps create uncertainty as well. A little bit more certainty would be helpful. “I think tourism globally is going to continue to grow year on year. While there may be a blip, I think in the long-term we will continue to see growth. America always has been and will continue to be a really important market for us.

“In terms of overseas visitors, we’ve got more Americans coming here than we do Europeans.” Mr Meldrum is also confident that golf tourism will grow, as we have a very special offering. “We have two amazing championship golf courses in Northern Ireland in such a small area, with both Royal County Down and Royal Portrush, both within the top 10 golf courses in the world,” he said. “Its quite unique, and I think the future is very bright for golf tourism, not only from the hospitality sector, but from retail to transportation. “It’s very much a joined-up, collaborative way of working now and we’ve all realised that there’s huge potential in this market.” n

The price of kebabs and other takeaways is on the up. Stock image

FOOD & DRINK

With the rising cost of food and drink is there a ‘breaking point’ for consumers? John Mulgrew looks at the rising price of food and drink, driven in part by increased input costs, wages and other overheads

wenty quid for a kebab. It takes you back a little when, justifiably or not, that somewhat humble but entirely appetising hefty mixture of lamb, vegetables, mayonnaise-based acidic sauce and bread is often seen as something of a cheap eat. It’s just one price I spotted at a Belfast takeaway, whose kebabs, to be fair, are among

some of the best around. But still, are we seeing the price of the takeaway, and food in general, rising quickly, and substantially, above the wages we all earn? Take a dander into a Belfast fast food market for a bite with a friend last week. A kebab? £13 to £16. A pizza? Something similar – many of the stalls in the mid-teens. It’s

starting to all feel a little jarring. Part of this is that the cost of doing business is going up. The wider hospitality industry here has long been calling for VAT parity with the Republic on food and drink, while it, along with the retail sector, have bemoaned the current Labour government’s increase in employer National Insurance contributions. Some say it’s adding tens of thousands of pounds to their costs each year. Of course, takeaways and restaurants also have to bear the burden of the delivery firm’s fees, which can be sizeable. Some are a little over 10%, whereas others

FOOD & DRINK

Is there a breaking point for the price of a pint?

can be two or three times that amount. But many require such services in order to survive and be noticed. It’s not just the independents who are putting prices up. Looking at the Big Mac tracker, which charts the cost of the iconic McDonald’s hamburger, it’s risen steadily since 2010, and at a steeper rate in the last couple of years – rising from £2.29 at the end of 2011. It’s now listed as £5.29 on the McDonald’s website. According to new modelling by the British Retail Consortium, food prices are forecast to increase by 4.2% on average in the latter half of 2025. The challenge that many in the hospitality sector face is that, while many of these costs are being passed on to the customer, is there a breaking point? A point where people are unable to put their hands in their pockets and justify the spend on non-essentials. The cost of doing business extends to retail, too, which is facing similarly choppy waters.

MAY 2025

A survey this week from Retail NI says a “triple whammy” of National Insurance, business rates and Living Wage increases could cost the average independent retailer £90,000. Northern Ireland had the joint lowest increase in earnings across the 12 UK regions over the year and now ranks third lowest of the regions. Wages are rising, but not sizeably when taking inflation into account. In real terms, earnings in NI increased by 1.2% over the year to April 2024. But that followed two years of real term decreases. And real weekly earnings in the UK saw a larger increase over the year – 2.9%. More recent data from HMRC indicates that NI employees had a median monthly pay of £2,295 in February 2025, a decrease of 0.1% over the month and an increase of 6.3% over the year. But that’s not adjusted for inflation. Basically, our money isn’t going as far as it once did. Many of us will feel that pinch at the supermarket till. But you’re likely to feel

it more acutely when turning to discretionary spending – whether it’s on the high street or in the pub. We’re now well into the £7 pint territory among some Belfast spots, with many others hot on their tails in the high sixes. It’s outstripping the UK average, considerably. You’ll often find cheaper prices in popular spots in London – we’re talking central London, Soho and the like, and not at a JD Wetherspoon. The set price menus of old are largely gone at many of our restaurants, and prices are having to creep up in order for the sector to deal with the rising overheads. But is there a level, a point in time, in which people will unfortunately consider some of this all too much of a luxury? When pubs in the centre of Belfast’s tourism heartland crack that £7 mark for good, or perhaps it’ll take the £8 high-water mark, will people start turning elsewhere for cheaper entertainment and fulfilment? ■

Chloe Ferris

INTERVIEW

‘We want to grow beyond our race days at Down Royal’ Chloe Ferris, commercial director of Down Royal racecourse, speaks to Margaret Canning about future expansion and how she developed an interest in the sport

e all want the present stretch of sunny weather to continue, but it’s an even more fervent wish for Chloe Ferris and her colleagues at Down Royal racecourse. “We’re just hoping it holds up until next Sunday as we’re doing our Family Day on April 13,” she says. “It’s building up into one of the big days in our calendar. Last year was actually our first Family Day, so it’s a new fixture for us.” Chloe joined as commercial director last November, becoming part of a leadership team led by chief executive Emma Meehan. Emma previously increased the course’s fixture list from 12 to 14 – its maximum capacity. Building new events like Family Day, which is supported by broadband company Fibrus, has become important to the racecourse as it looks to draw new audiences, Chloe says. “It’s really important for us to look at what we’re doing at each of our race meetings. Brand is really important to me and it’s been what I’ve worked on, as seen throughout all my career. “When I came to look at our 14 fixtures, it was very apparent that we didn’t quite have a brand for each one. Racing enthusiasts are an audience who will filter through no matter what the event is. “But, for me, it was really important to target each race day as its own brand so that we had a specific demographic and a specific target audience to go after. Before, it was a bit

MAY 2025

of a ‘spray and pray’. “It’s really important to us to have a day where families can come. For Family Day, we’ve taken over our trackside marquee. “We’ve put bouncy castles, face painters and different things in there. “I’m a mum to two small kids. If I come to things like this, I want somewhere that, if it’s raining, I can go inside and still enjoy the activities with them. “Once families get here and pay in, all entertainment is free. That was important to us as well. We understand that sometimes people have a misconception of racing, that it costs a lot to come here and you have to have a lot of money to attend, but that’s not the case. “You don’t have to bet to come here and have a good time. It’s a social experience and we have lots of different options on ticketing to suit all budgets.” With plenty of people from Northern Ireland attending racing at Cheltenham and Aintree, including Saturday’s Grand National, she says Down Royal can more than hold its own. Chloe adds: “First and foremost, to be able to afford Cheltenham or Aintree, you’re going to be a huge racing enthusiast. The demographic who can afford to attend those is a different sort than ours. “We have a really good racing community here that does cross over into the local business community. Further afield than that, they come here, they spend money with us and we’re very well-supported. “We don’t race at the same times as the

others, so we don’t have any conflicts. Our Family Day isn’t until Sunday, April 13, when the Grand National and Aintree are over.” Northern Ireland medical testing company Randox is famously the sponsor of the Grand National, but Chloe says there are more than enough big names for its interests. “Randox has also been a long-time supporter of Downpatrick, so they were never a target for us, but BoyleSports is a sponsor for us. “We are governed by Horse Racing Ireland, so we are in with the southern Irish racing. It’s a different set of people and a different outlook on sponsorship. Our races are televised with Racing TV, and we’re the only racecourse in Northern Ireland with a grade one track. “And we’re the first on the calendar as well. We kick off the season – that’s really important to us.” As you’d expect from the commercial director of a racecourse, Chloe is passionate about the sport. However, her role is focused on matters like sponsorship and hospitality, particularly beyond race days. “It’s really crucial for us attracting highend sponsors and corporate clients. We are positioning ourselves as a premiere destination, not just for corporate hospitality on race days, but we’re also wanting to look at corporate events and enhancing what we’re doing here. “At the end of the day, we have 14 race days and we’ve a 100% strike rate on sponsorship here. Every race and every event is sponsored. >

INTERVIEW

Chloe Ferris

“But I’m looking at how we can expand beyond what we’re doing on race days. “On Tuesday, I have NI Chamber here hosting its regional networking event. “Corporates will be able to tour the building and the different event spaces as they’re very flexible spaces. We’re 35 minutes from Newry and 20 minutes from Belfast, and we want this to be considered as a corporate venue for non-race days. “We want to get those companies with us on a non-race level to build that relationship and then they will come to get involved with events. “For me, there is that growth opportunity in expanding our event offering and developing partnerships. We want to create synergies to drive traffic for us and increase our visibility in the business community, and getting them here for events is a great way to do that.” Chloe has built plenty of connections in her career, which has included stints at Digital DNA and Kainos plc, as well as NI Chamber. “It’s all about having those connections and that network – that has always been drilled into me from my days in the NI Chamber,” she says. “Technology is also playing a crucial role in building its information about customers,

targeting its marketing towards expanding its audience. “We want to grow beyond our race days, but keep race days as buoyant as possible. It’s about keeping all those plates spinning.” Her husband Johnny and his family have a keen interest in horse racing. “I’ve been coming with him a lot over the years. My husband and his side of the family were always interested in racing in points to points and have been in different syndicates.” They don’t have any racing businesses, but she jokes that it’s where the family has put their wages over the years. “We always took the races as a day out and really enjoyed the hospitality and atmosphere of race day. “So when I came here, I was able to look at it from the customers’ point of view.” Chloe isn’t a jockey but she is a horse lover, starting out with a little pony, Dylan, when she was a child, and later, a horse called Benjamin. The couple and their children, Ruby (4) and nine-year-old Frankie, live in Bangor, where Chloe and Johnny are from. She jokes that Frankie and Ruby are “good strong racing names” but denies that they were directly named after jockeys Frankie Dettori and Ruby Walsh. “I just always liked the name Frankie, and

Ruby just seemed to suit Ruby when she came along. We thought Ruby matched in very well with Frankie as well.” And, of course, they will be out in force on Family Day on Sunday. Chloe says: “I’ve chosen to have children and a career, which is very difficult and a juggling act 90% of the time. “But I like them to be able to come and see that this is what mum does for a living. I hope, as they get older, they’re proud of me trying to push myself on further in my career because, ultimately, it’s going to hopefully benefit them.” She says the racecourse’s owner, Irish company Merrion Property Group, is committed to the long-term future of the location. “They are very invested in the racecourse and want to see this place thrive. They’re investing in the racecourse, making it a better place to be for customers and us as staff.” She and Emma make for a strong female leadership team. “It’s not just us – our full office team is all female, and we have a woman, Nicole, on our grounds team, which is basically unheard of. “In a male-dominated environment, we are very much holding our own as females, which is lovely.” ■

Darren Bradley RST EPoS How did you get started in the industry? RST EPoS was established in 1977 and has always been a family-run business, so I grew up around it. That early exposure gave me a real understanding of the industry and the values that drive it. My own professional journey began in retail, where I gained first-hand experience of front-line operations and customer service in a fast-paced public-facing environment. I later went on to run my own restaurants, which deepened my appreciation of what it takes to keep a hospitality business going dayto-day. That background has shaped our approach at RST EPoS, and I’m currently sales director. Each of us has some retail or hospitality experience and therefore know what our customers are dealing with because we’ve been there ourselves. That lived experience is a big part of what drives us and informs the services we deliver so that we can identify and meet the needs of our customers. Typically, who are your clients or customers? We work with a wide variety of businesses, but our core client base is made up of small to medium-sized enterprises – many of them independent retailers like cafés, restaurants and hotels, who want to focus on keeping their costs at a minimum and therefore need solutions that are reliable, intuitive, and efficient. That said, we also support larger organisations such as schools, universities, and hospitals. It’s a diverse mix, but what unites them all is a shared need for dependable technology that simplifies and streamlines their operations and supports growth. Do you enjoy what you do, and what in particular? I do genuinely enjoy my work, particularly being at the forefront of technology and having the space to be creative. It’s not just

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Entrepreneur OF THE Month about coming up with concepts, it’s about turning them into something real that actually works. Seeing those ideas help our customers grow and thrive is what makes it all worth it. Most recently, we’ve introduced TapaPay, a new platform that helps clients reduce transaction fees and streamline their sales channels – from in-store purchases and table orders to online bookings and gift vouchers. It’s exactly the kind of innovation that responds to the pressures our customers are facing, and seeing the results in action is incredibly rewarding. What is the most difficult part of your job? If anything, it’s just making sure we stay ahead of the curve – continuously evolving, improving

and innovating without overcomplicating things. Our aim is always to make technology work for people, not the other way around. What are the challenges facing your sector and the economy in general? Right now, many businesses are under significant pressures as they grapple with rising overheads. Increased National Insurance contributions, escalating supplier costs and card transaction fees are putting a substantial squeeze on margins. At RST EPoS, our response has always been to focus on delivering technology that helps our clients operate more efficiently, reduce costs, and ultimately stay competitive in a tough economic climate. ■

FOOD & DRINK

Why the local family bakery remains a crucial part of our society John Mulgrew rediscovers the traditional family bakery and says it’s something we should all be supporting as part of our weekly food shop

paid seven quid for a doughnut a few weeks ago. I’m not proud of it. It’s evidence of the things you’ll do after a handful of ales in the big city, milling around a buzzing Soho, on a warm weekend evening. It was ridiculous-looking, with three

different structural elements to it, crafted using all manner of pastry techniques – but it was delicious nonetheless. But, this week, I picked up two sizeable homemade sausage rolls, and three gravy rings at a local bakery, for the same price. ‘Can I have three of the sugar doughnuts,

too, please?’. I knew as soon as the words had stumbled out of my mouth I’d selected the wrong vernacular. ‘Gravy rings?’ the server asks me. ‘Yes, gravy rings’. I was aware of what a gravy ring was long before the puffier, softer, USinterpretation was in my lexicon. But it’s been a while. And I should have been making the most of the traditional bakeries which, while still around in our towns and cities, are considerably less common as they once were when I was growing up. I’ve lived in my area of south Belfast for almost eight years, yet I only discovered a buzzing and varied little well-established spot – Ian’s Home Bakery – a modest walk away, or a quick jaunt by car. It started off with the search for a sausage roll. It’s either the filling station or the chunky ‘artisan’ variety. Good luck getting much if any change from a fiver in the latter instance.

FOOD & DRINK Gravy rings from Ian’s Home Bakery in Rosetta in south Belfast

But a visit to the local bakery is now firmly on my list of weekly visits, when in search of a loaf, something hearty for lunch, or the odd sugar-laden baked good for the weekend. The gravy rings came during the second visit. They are entirely more interesting than their doughnut brethren. There’s a time and a place for most things, but put them side-byside with a pricier Krispy Kreme, Tim Hortons, or even one of the craftier varieties, and they rise to the top. There’s that gentle crust and crunch – the textural contrast is key. Inside, it’s less airy but still reasonably light, with a little more depth, perhaps a little fattier, but entirely more interesting. It still slightly baffles me that throngs of people will queue for the opening of a Krispy Kreme store here. But it just shows the power of the brand. There’s nothing wrong with them, whatsoever. But just paying a visit to

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a bakery a stone’s throw away, forgoing the prime retail unit and marketing heft, and you’ll get something heartier, and causing less distress to your bank balance. I’m fully aware that part of this middle-aged retrospective discovery is dusted in a healthy helping of nostalgia. The Brown Jug was a traditional bakery and café which once sat on the Main Street in my hometown of Ballymoney. It wasn’t far from my granny’s house. Inside, the dark interior and banquettes, an array of baked goods to the right, and a chilled counter with all many of pasta and rice-based salads. These days, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to the variety of bread and other baked goods available, especially through some of our best independent producers. If you’ve paid a visit to anywhere like Ursa Minor in Ballycastle, or Bakari in Belfast city centre, you’ll know what I’m talking about. It is

a form of culinary artistic expression. But the issue with the prevalence of sour dough bread being produced by some of our best baker, is that it transcends the independent shop and filters its way – often poorly – into the big supermarket and mainstream. And I’d argue that much of the bread being produced in an old school bakery here is considerably better than the ‘posh’, sometimes pseudo, sour dough and the like you’ll find at the large retailers. So, there’s definitely room for both. The modern, ‘artisan’ bakery offers the innovation, punchy and tangy sourdough, and a plethora of savoury flavours more akin to a decent restaurant. But the local family, or traditional bakery, still has such an important place in our society. It should remain a key element in our food shopping experience, where possible. ■

Word Wise FROM THE

The column with an ear for experience... How did you start out in business? I began my career in the early 1970s as an investment banker in London. At the time, working in The City was traditionally a male pursuit and I was the first woman to join Morgan Grenfell & Co, as an executive, rather than a secretary. I was hired because I spoke Arabic, having just spent 18 months in Jordan. Morgan, Grenfell & Co was one of only two London merchant banks operating in the Middle East at the time, but they had no Arabic speakers when I joined. During my early days in The City, I specialised in project finance and later moved into privatisation and other corporate finance work. The most senior roles that I have held were as head of utilities corporate finance, first at Rothschild and then at ING Barings in the late 1990s. For the past 20 years, I have had a nonexecutive ‘portfolio’ career and am currently chair of Northern Ireland’s economic regulator for electricity, gas and water, the Utility Regulator. What have you found the most challenging during your years of business so far? In theory, it could have been challenging to be surrounded so exclusively by men, as colleagues and clients. In practice, this was never a problem, and I enjoyed my time in banking. How would you describe your management style? I believe in leading by example and in remaining visible and accountable. Although my role is high profile, I pride myself on a relaxed and friendly management style, and I greatly enjoy working with and developing the next generation of STEM leaders.

Rosamund Blomfield-Smith Utility Regulator What would you change if you could go back and do it all again? Not much. look back on my long working life with pleasure and am delighted that it has culminated in my current role as chair of the Utility Regulator. Have you done it all on your own? Certainly not. Over the years, I have benefitted from strong teamwork and support at home. I attach great importance to creating a well-balanced, supportive and cohesive team environment. How would you like your business/ organisation to be remembered? I would like the Utility Regulator to be remembered as a supremely well-run organisation that protects the interests of consumers of electricity, gas and water across Northern Ireland. We have just published our Forward Work

Programme 2025/2026, which details our business plan for the second year of our Corporate Strategy 2024-2029. I believe that the projects outlined within the programme will help to protect and empower Northern Ireland’s energy consumers. The Utility Regulator plays a key role in the economic success of Northern Ireland. I think that there is huge potential here for development and growth in this area but that this will only happen if the economy is underpinned by high quality utilities. It is my view that utility companies can only operate at their best effect with strong regulation. What piece of advice would you give to a 20-year-old you? If the going is tough, just keep on going and going. One thing I have learned is that the greatest determinant of success is the desire to succeed and the ability to keep one’s nose to the grindstone.

Motoring By Pat Burns

MOTORING

The long ranger electric Corsa unveiled

auxhall is continuing to make electric mobility more accessible by improving the range of the Corsa Electric. Thanks to improvements in battery technology and drivetrain efficiency, the Corsa Electric Long Range now offers a range of up to 266 miles. The Corsa Electric Long Range features a 51kWh battery and a 156PS motor, with an enhanced range of 266 miles (WLTP) achieved through advancements in nickel-manganesecobalt (NMC) battery technology and increased drivetrain efficiency. The Corsa Electric Long Range now consumes 4.3 mi/kWh. Throughout its life, the Corsa Electric has received regular improvements to its range. The original version was first unveiled in August 2019 with a maximum range of 205 miles. Now, the Corsa Electric offers a maximum range of 266 miles (WLTP). Vauxhall is also introducing vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality for the first time on the Corsa Electric Long Range. This innovative

feature allows drivers to power external devices up to 3.6kW and 16A, such as power tools or camping equipment. This technology uses energy stored in the vehicle’s traction battery, adding a new level of versatility and practicality to everyday electric driving. The bi-directional charging capability is enabled via the standard on-board charging cable and V2L gun, available as an accessory through Vauxhall retailers. This offers customers additional flexibility for their energy needs, whether at home or on the road. When it comes to recharging, the Corsa Electric Long Range can recharge to 80% in under 30 minutes at a 100kW DC rapid charger. Customers now benefit from a greater range for the same price. The Corsa Electric Long Range starts from £28,900 for the recently announced YES Edition, which combines practicality with a high level of specification at an affordable price. Customers can choose from five colours, including three new colours exclusive to the Yes Edition, complemented by

a colour-matched dashboard strip, door inserts and carpet floor mats. Premium features are included as standard, including heated front seats and a heated vegan leather steering wheel, rear LED tail lights, auto-dimming rearview mirror, tinted rear windows and 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. As part of Vauxhall’s efforts to simplify going electric, the Corsa Electric Long Range is also available with the brand’s Electric All In offer, which includes access to a variety of charging solutions to help make electric mobility even easier. Customers benefit from eight years of comprehensive roadside assistance, including emergency charging assistance. Electric All In also includes £500 credit which can be used towards either an Ohme home wall box installation or Tesco charging credit. Finally, there is a six-month subscription to Connect Plus, giving access to the full suite of connected services available through Vauxhall Connect. ■

MOTORING

Lotus blossoms with powerful luxury EVs

otus has revamped the line-up for its electric Eletre hyper-SUV and Emeya hyper-GT models. Thanks to a revised model range, Lotus now offers customers more convenience, clarity and options in configuring their Eletre or Emeya. The new ‘600’ and ‘900’ model names reflects the power output of the new models while at the same time, equipment level references like GT and GT SE from Lotus’ heritage return to the present. The Lotus Eletre is now available in six trim levels: Eletre 600, 600 GT, 600 GT SE and 600 Sport SE, as well as 900 Sport and the Eletre 900 Sport Carbon as the absolute flagship. The Emeya range follows the same nomenclature. Although much has changed and has been improved for the new model year, the unrivalled performance of the Lotus Eletre and Emeya has remained untouched, resulting in the two models still being the benchmark in their respective segments. As a ‘600’, both feature a 450 kW (612 hp) all-electric dual-motor powertrain and all-wheel drive as standard, a combination that guarantees

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stunning performance. With a 0-62 mph sprint in just 4.15 seconds for the Emeya 600 GT (Eletre 600: 4.5 sec) and a top speed of 155 mph (Eletre: 159 mph) these models showcase the benefits of electric power. Things can always go faster, and the new Eletre and Emeya ‘900’ provide unmistakable evidence, in terms of outstanding performance. Both rely on a 675 kW (918 hp) dual-motor powertrain, providing the Emeya 900 with an acceleration from a standstill to 62 mph in a stunning 2.78 seconds (Eletre 900: 2.95 sec) and a top speed of 155 mph (Eletre 900: 159 mph). No less impressive are their range and charging performances, which boost the Eletre and Emeya to the top performers in their respective segments. With a maximum range of 379 miles (WLTP; Eletre: 373 miles) they are also ideally suited for long electric road trips. And when it is time for a charging stop, the Emeya, for example, also proves itself as an absolute top performer in this area. Thanks to its 800V battery technology with Advanced Lotus Hyper Charging it can be charged from

10-80% in around 14 minutes (under perfect conditions) using a 400kW DC charger (Eletre: 20 minutes from 10-80% at a 350kW DC charger), giving it the status of one of the fastest-charging EVs in the world. Like every Lotus, the Eletre – a pure electric performance SUV – and Emeya – a pure electric hyper-GT – are first and foremost cars ‘For The Drivers’. The DNA is 100% Lotus, with exceptional, class-leading ride and handling, steering and aero performance, much of developed by Belfast ex-F1 driver Martin Donnelly. With their sleek design, powerful electric motors and luxurious interior, the Eletre and Emeya set new standards in the world of electric vehicles. The two share common characteristics like cutting-edge technology, a sophisticated design, exceptional performance and unparalleled driving experiences, whether you’re seeking exhilarating speed, supreme comfort or advanced safety features. High-quality interiors with luxury materials and tactile surfaces, a pristine fit and finish, customisable ambient lighting, an intelligent driver cockpit and intuitive infotainment systems create a premium and comfortable cabin environment, with features like ventilated seats with massage enhancing the overall immersive driving experience. Available to order now, the Lotus Eletre and Emeya 600 and 900 will arrive at Lotus retailers this summer with prices starting at £84,990 for the Eletre 600 and Emeya 600. ■

MOTORING

Go Bigster or go home

lready Europe’s leading B-segment brand, Dacia is entering the C-segment with the Bigster, offering its brand of value for money motoring to customers looking for an SUV. Prices for the Bigster start at £25,215. The Bigster has 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels as standard as well as roof bars, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, electric parking brake, rain sensors, Media Display with 10.1-inch central touchscreen, seven-inch digital instrument panel, rear parking sensors and multi-view camera, electric front and rear windows, power folding mirrors and a 40/20/40 rear modular bench seat. Depending on trim level, the Bigster is available with a high console with an armrest with a built-in cooler compartment, an induction charger and generous storage. Headroom is best-in-class at both the front and rear. Passengers at the rear gain best-inclass legroom. The Bigster is also best-in-class for boot capacity, with up to 677 litres under the parcel shelf. In particular, the length and height of the load space set new standards on the C-SUV market.

The Bigster also benefits from the dual-zone air conditioning with dedicated air vents for passengers in the rear, a panoramic opening sunroof, wireless smartphone charger and more. This equipment is available as an option or as standard, depending on the trim level. The Bigster Journey and Extreme models feature adaptive cruise control (ACC) as standard on the hybrid versions. This new Dacia is compliant with GSR2, the latest European safety standard, with a range of driving aids as standard on all trim levels. Systems include advanced emergency braking (urban/extra-urban with vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, and motorcycle detection), traffic sign recognition with speed alert, rear park assist, emergency stop signal, lane change alert, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, and the emergency call system, eCall. The Bigster is the first Renault Group model to feature the all-new hybrid 155 powertrain, combining a 109 bhp four-cylinder petrol engine, two electric motors (a 50 bhp motor and a high-voltage starter/generator), a 1.4 kWh battery (230V) and an automatic electric gearbox. It has four gears for the ICE engine

and two others for the electric motors. This combined technology is made possible by the absence of a clutch. Available for the first time in the Dacia range at this level of power, the Bigster mild hybrid 140 model powertrain is based on the TCe 130 available in the Duster. This first level of electrification combines a new-generation 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild hybrid system and a six-speed manual gearbox. The hybrid system supports the combustion engine during the start-up and acceleration phases, reducing average fuel consumption (51 mpg) and CO2 emissions (122 g/km) by around 10% compared with an ICE of equivalent power. Regenerative braking recharges the 0.8 kWh battery. The range topping Bigster130 4x4 is built to head off the beaten track with an all-wheel drive system mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, and a 48V mild hybrid system to maximise efficiency. This hybrid system supports the 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine during start-up and acceleration to boost the power output and fuel economy. ■

MOTORING

‘The DeLorean was built for the needs of the consumer… not the corporation’

Northern Irish owner of the famous DeLorean car has said the public’s love of the iconic vehicle still continues, despite new figures showing just over 300 remain on UK roads. The cars – immortalised by the Back To The Future film franchise four decades ago – are known for their gullwing doors and unpainted stainless steel bodywork and have become a collector’s item. Around 9,000 DeLorean DMC-12s rolled off the DeLorean Motor Company assembly line in Dunmurry, Northern Ireland, in 1981. The company collapsed into insolvency the following year. John DeLorean was then charged with drug trafficking in October 1982, but a jury found him not guilty in 1984, although his reputation suffered badly. Currently, some 303 DeLoreans are taxed for use on public roads in the UK, according to Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency figures obtained by online auction platform Collecting Cars. However, Robert Lamrock, 71, of the

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DeLorean Owners Association, maintains that the car is still popular with the public in Northern Ireland. “I take my car out and people are flashing their lights or tooting their horn at you,” he said. “I’ve been to car shows where there’s been Ferraris and Lamborghinis and the people all flock over to the DeLorean, because it’s unique.” He said he still senses a local “pride” in the DeLorean in Northern Ireland, and credits the controversial owner with having the vision build the car how and where he did. “John, despite all his errors, was a genius. The car was built around the needs and desires of the consumer, not the corporation. “They were slightly too ambitious, in terms of trying to produce 20,000 to 30,000 when they were starting up. “It was just unfortunate that there was a recession in 1981/82 and everything went pear-shaped.” Back To The Future – which opened in cinemas in the summer of 1985 – catapulted

DeLoreans into the public consciousness. In the film, eccentric scientist Dr Emmett “Doc” Brown creates a time machine from a modified DeLorean, using plutonium to power a fictional gadget called a flux capacitor which allows time travel once the car reaches 88mph. Mr Lamrock says that DeLorean owners have “not a thing” that unites them other than being “passionate about the car.” “There’s no common theme. There’s doctors, dentists, engineers. As time has gone on, the car has become much more expensive, so you don’t find too many young kids that can afford it.” Thinking about the appeal of the DeLorean, he also says: “If you’ve got the money, you can put a Flux Capacitor on it and pretend you’re Doc Brown and Marty McFly.” According to the figures released, a further 114 of the cars have a statutory off road notification, meaning they are likely to be gathering dust in garages. Collecting Cars estimates a fully restored version could fetch more than £80,000 at auction. ■

APPOINTMENTS

Philip Murray is associate director, commercial, at RPP Architects. Mr Murray has significant experience as a design leader within the practice and has an indepth technical expertise. The Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) has strengthened its team with a new key appointment, hiring Dr Anna Monaghan as business development executive. Paul Toner is associate director, building information management, at RPP Architects. Over the past 10 years Paul has been at the forefront of the practice’s development of building information management (BIM).

Used Cars NI has appointed Emma Marley as its new chief executive. She steps into the role after 17 years with the firm as well as the last three years as chief operating officer. Paul Donnelly is associate director, housing, at RPP Architects. He has over 25 years’ experience as an architect and specialises in private and social residential development. Woven has appointed Alan McKeown as its chief executive. Mr McKeown has more than 30 years’ experience and expertise in leadership in the housing sector.

Jonathan McDonald is associate director, transport, at RPP Architects. Mr McDonald is an experienced architect, acting as the integrated design team lead on several complex transport and infrastructure projects. Solarfix has appointed one of the region’s most experienced energy sector leaders, Robin McCormick, as its new non-executive chairman. Andrew Hair is associate director, commercial, at RPP Architects. Mr Hair provides manages client interface and design delivery for the practice’s retail clients, and holds the Passivhaus designer accreditation.

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1. Gavin Annon, Belfast Chamber, Dr Jayne Brady, head of NI Civil Service, Andy Haldane, chief executive of the Royal Society of Arts, and Clare Guinness, chief executive of Belfast Chamber, following a roundtable event in Belfast.

2. Some two thirds of people here believe integrated education should be the main model for our education system in Northern Ireland. That’s according to polling from LucidTalk, on behalf of the Integrated Education Fund (IEF).

3. Awards host Krishnan Guru-Murthy presenting Lucy McCammond from SPAR Abbots Cross with its award for Refit of the Year at the Convenience Store Awards.

4. Cool FM presenter Rebecca McKinney and Richard Spratt, chief executive at Cancer Focus NI, have officially opened the newest charity retail shop on Bangor’s High Street.

5. Aerospace firms Bradfor, IPC Mouldings, and The Exact Group have attended the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg. Pictured are Francis McCartan, Bradfor, Joanne Liddle, IPC Mouldings, and Stephen Cromie, The Exact Group.

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6. Pictured at the Belfast Flavours Future-Proofing Your Business: Practical Sustainability for Food and Drink event, are Andrew Dougan, and Wendi Kane of Belfast City Council, co-chairs of Belfast Flavours, Jac Callen of Visit Belfast, Tina O’Dwyer of The Tourism Space, and host Joris Minne.

7. Lidl NI has revealed the list of 28 post-primary schools to successfully secure a place on the retailer’s Sport for Good programme. Pictured are four-time Paralympic athletics champion Michael McKillop MBE and Olympic steeplechase runner Kerry O’Flaherty.

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8. A delegation from Invest Barbados has hosted its inaugural event in Northern Ireland. Pictured are Janet McKay, PR consultant, Suzanne Wylie, NI Chamber, His Excellency Mr Milton Inniss, KayeAnne Greenidge, Invest Barbados, and Gareth Robinson, Verbatim Communications.

9. McKeever Hotels has acquired Armagh City Hotel. Pictured are Armagh City Hotel’s former owners, Brian McCormack and Kieran McAnallan, with Eddie McKeever, McKeever Hotels managing director and Eugene McKeever, founder and group chairman.

10. Law firm Lewis Silkin has encouraged Northern Ireland employers to be aware of some significant fiscal changes to limits and awards for certain employment rights which are due to come into effect. Pictured is senior associate, Frederick Reilly.

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11. Construction firm Graham has announced the completion of Millers Quay, a £130m residential development at Wirral Waters.

12. Propertynews has announced a new charity partnership with Action Cancer with a view to supporting its charity work. Pictured are Carla Brogan, Mark Irwin-Watson, Emma McNally and Holly McGeeney Murray.

13. IT asset disposition and asset lifecycle management firm Vyta has extended its global presence with an £800,000 investment in a new facility in Frankfurt. Pictured is founder Philip McMichael.

14. Manufacturing Month, the flagship event in Northern Ireland’s business and economic calendar to showcase and celebrate the manufacturing and engineering sector, is set to return for the fifth year this May. Pictured are Stephen Kelly and Rachel Doherty, Manufacturing NI.

15. Female entrepreneurs have come together for an event celebrating 10 years of Accelerating the Creation of Rural Nascent Start-ups. Pictured are Noel Grealish TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and the Marine, and Susan Nelson.

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16. Italian chef Danilo Cortellini brought the spirit of Italy to Ulster University’s Academy Restaurant for a memorable evening celebrating the culinary legacy of Antonio Carluccio.

17. Belfast City Airport has been named as the UK’s Most Punctual Airport for the second year in a row. Pictured are Michael McDowell, airfield operations manager, and Judith Davis, airport operations manager.

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18. Gray’s Communications has announced a new scholarship to fully fund a medical degree at Ulster University’s Derry campus. Puctured are Malachy O’Neill, and Professor Louise Dubras, Ulster University with Chris Gray, chief executive, Gray’s Marketing and Comms Specialists.

19. SuperValu and Centra retailers have raised over £4m for Action Cancer. Pictured are Trevor Magill, Musgrave NI managing director, Action Cancer ambassador Nicola Somerville, SuperValu Fruitfield owner Philip Woods, and Action Cancer chief, Gareth Kirk.

20. Vanilla store manager, Donna Mullan and Leona Barr, centre manager at CastleCourt Shopping Centre, mark the opening of the brand’s first location in Ireland.

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21. Ballymena bus manufacturer Wrightbus has celebrated hitting 50 million zero-emission miles with a visit from Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP.

22. Belfast-based Cyberspark has announced the launch of the UK and Ireland’s first Cyber Battle competition. Pictured are George Bathurst and Richard Coates, Cyberspark, with Education Minister Paul Givan, and Denny Vitty, Cyberspark.

23. Ava Guilfoyle and Alex Smyth at the Sunflower Bar in Belfast to celebrate the Northern Ireland launch of Irish whiskey liqueur Shanky’s Whip.

24. Progressive Building Society has chosen Autism NI as its charity partner for this year’s annual general meeting. Autism NI is Northern Ireland’s longest-serving autism charity.

25. Luke McNeice of Hamilton Robson Ltd and Ekaterina Solomatina are pictured with Belfast High Sheriff Fiona McAteer ahead of Belfast City Council’s Augment the City event.

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26. Belfast Grand Central Station has been awarded the Infrastructure Project of the Year Award by the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) NI. Pictured are Duncan McAllister, Conor McLornan, Jackson Touhey, Louise Sterritt, and Philip Brown.

27. Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald is encouraging A-level and Level 3 Extended Diploma students to consider applying for the 2025 All Ireland Scholarship Scheme.

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28. Radio presenter Pete Snodden, Michelle Hatfield, chief people and marketing officer at Belfast City Airport and Nell Cullen, Ignite Youth Leadership Programme graduate, launch this year’s scheme.

29. IntrinsicAi has appointed Jordan McDonald (left) as chief executive, who is an awardwinning AI leader and former director of data science and AI strategy at Analytics Engines. He’s pictured with founder Jerry Staple.

30. Conor McMenamin of Crolly Distillery in Donegal says tariffs from the US will be disruptive, and particularly damaging and stressful for the bigger Irish whiskey firms.

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31. Dr Sinéad Mellett, recipient of the Best Business Opportunity Award for Natural Vet Co, receiving her award from Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Professor Maggie Cusack, President of Munster Technological University (MTU).

32. Savills Ireland has acquired Osborne King. Pictured are Gavin Clarke, Osborne King, Peter Callender, Savills Ireland, Ben Turtle, Savills NI, Mark Reynolds, Savills Ireland, Dave McClure, Osborne King, and Ruth Morrison, Osborne King.

33. Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has urged the public to become citizen scientists at local water sources in the ‘Great UK Water Blitz’.

34. Solarfix has appointed former chairman and managing director of SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland), Robin McCormick (right), as a nonexecutive chairman. He’s pictured with Solarfix managing director Michael O’Donnell.

35. Tom McEvoy (second left) has been announced as the new head of audit at KPMG in Northern Ireland. He’s pictured with partners Phillip Marshall, Claire Browne and Dominic Mudge.

36 PHOTOCALL

36. Bank of Ireland has hosted businesses for a Corporate Economic and Sustainability Outlook event at the Europa Hotel. Pictured are Louise Patterson, Peter Baillie and Mark Young, Energia Group, with Colm Moane, associate director corporate banking NI, Bank of Ireland.

37. Four Star Pizza chief Colin Hughes is calling on the Northern Ireland public to nominate members of the emergency services which they feel have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their job.

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38. Aine Kearney, director of events at Tourism NI, Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director, championships, The R&A and Dr Ian Kerr, chairman of the Championship Committee at Royal Portrush, mark 100 Days to go to The Open.

39. Titanic Belfast has announced that in collaboration with the V&A it is set to host a free exhibition of the work of Lucian Freud between May and September. Pictured are Titanic Belfast chief Judith Owens MBE along with conservator, Sean Madden.

40. Lord Mayor of Belfast Micky Murray and High Sheriff Fiona McAteer congratulate Jonathan McAlpin (centre) and the team at East Belfast Enterprise on becoming the first enterprise agency to be awarded Belfast Business Promise Member status.

LIFESTYLE

A vintage Rolex Submariner

From on-screen solid gold classics to vintage Submariners: pre-owned Rolex Lunn’s in Belfast now offers a wide range of watches under the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme, with watches being given the green light from the firm itself alongside an international warranty. John Mulgrew called in to see some of the models on sale

here was a time when a smaller solid gold Rolex was the epitome of success and big screen flair. While that hasn’t diminished – instead, perhaps a move towards larger, sportier watches – there remains something iconic about a classic 36mm Day-Date on wrist. It’s a model which stands out as a little bit

of on-screen history, with the heft of 18 carat yellow gold. While this model has small diamonds as hour-markers, the standard variant was rarely off the wrist of Tony Soprano across six seasons of the HBO series the Sopranos, and during the last few decades was often used as something of a visual cue and barometer of success for

screen stars. It’s a hefty piece, too, given the solid gold build. At 36mm, it was once the standard for a men’s wrist watch. The demand for larger watches has pushed the larger 40mm into the spotlight, but there’s now a fresh resurgence of small watches once again. While the case isn’t huge, it has sizeable

Rolex Day-Date 36mm in gold

LIFESTYLE

presence elsewhere on wrist, thanks to that golden glow of precious metal, the glint of the polished centre links, and that rich gold dial. It’s one of a wide range of watches now available at Lunn’s in Belfast as part of the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme, with watches being given the green light from the firm itself alongside a two-year international warranty. Rolex took the decision to meet that demand and market head on. It’s something which would previously been thought of as an unlikely move for the brand. The new Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme aims to provide customers with some added security and certification. It makes it possible to purchase pre-owned watches that Rolex itself has certified and guaranteed. Each model includes a Rolex Certified Pre-

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Owned box and pouch and will come with a two-year international warranty. And the classic Submariner also makes its presence firmly known with the current inventory on offer. While the classic diver has grown slightly in the last couple of years – up from its 40mm case to 41mm – some of the older variants offer up something a little more refined and classic in term of size and aesthetics. Take a 1980s Submariner. It’s a slightly more subtle piece on wrist, sporting a smaller crown guard than its modern brethren, along with an aluminium bezel insert, as opposed to the ceramic found on current models. But aside from the heritage, it’s the natural patina on the dial which helps differentiate this from something from 2025. It’s gentle and balanced, but shows this watch has been around for more than 40

years, and has another 40 – and plenty more – to go. If you’re after something which ticks pretty much all the wearability boxes, however, then a 39mm Explorer is hard to beat. This is one of Rolex’s mainstays, and a watch which has garnered considerable affection among horology aficionados. It wears extremely well on wrist, is perfectly balanced and sports that extremely clean, black dial, with numerical markers at the three, six and nine positions. And while that may be a more affordable option than the vintage Submariner, the smaller Datejust variants – especially the smaller cased option aimed at women – is even more so. A 1985 26mm option is a more paired-back watch, but something both with pedigree and that little bit of history behind it. ■

An aerial view of Chur old town

TRAVEL

Enjoy elevated design in Swiss mountain villages An urge to explore architect Peter Zumthor’s work brought a surprising series of Perfect Moments, writes Gemma Fullam

ack in my analogue teen years, books were a North Star for me and many of my friends. Preinternet, books unlocked a world outside of our dreary, parochial existence in 1980s Ireland. Books brought adventure, sex, sophistication, new horizons. Some inspired such devotion that we could quote entire passages from memory. Spalding Gray’s Swimming to Cambodia was one such book, and, for a brief obsessive moment in time, his lifelong quest to experience a Perfect Moment in every country he visited spoke to us like nothing else did. “You can never plan for one,” Gray wrote of Perfect Moments. “You never know when they’re coming. It’s sort of like falling in love... with yourself.” To a 1980s teenager, this was heady, radical stuff. I’d forgotten all about Perfect Moments and Spalding Gray. It’s a lifetime ago, and 20 years since news of his suicide made me cry. Then, last summer, on a sojourn to Switzerland, Perfect Moments kept stacking up, one after another, until those long-ago memories of Spalding and his lifelong quest resurfaced and I was 17 again, dreaming of a world beyond the parish. A past Perfect Moment had been the catalyst for my Swiss surprise. In 2013, I’d had a non-religious religious experience in a tiny field chapel 53km south-west of Cologne. In 1998, a farming couple asked Basel-born architect Peter Zumthor to design a field chapel

to honour Bruder Klaus, Switzerland’s patron saint, and the resulting rammed concrete structure, with its charred interior and Pantheon-like occulus, is a masterpiece. That tiny chapel blew my mind in a way I can’t fully explain. It also left me wanting more Zumthor. The itch never left, and last June, my husband John and I flew to Zurich, from where we made our way via the peerless Swiss transport system to the village of Vals in Graubunden. Several Zumthor-designed gems exist in this canton where he now lives and works, and Therme Vals – arguably the building that propelled him to international acclaim – is first on my list. Vals is a sleepy, unspoiled hamlet of 1,000 inhabitants and as gob-smackingly gorgeous as Swiss mountain villages tend to be. The Post bus dropped us at the hotel, and our fancy digs kicked off the immersion into Zumthor’s world. The interconnected complex comprises the swanky 7132 Hotel 5S (it has its own fleet of choppers, should you prefer one to the bus), the more affordable 7132 House of Architects, and the thermal spa, which predates the luxe hotels. Later, buzzed up on bubbles, we entered the spa via a subterranean glossy-black corridor, which led to a low-lit, dreamlike space of greeny-grey stone and steamy blue water. Think sexy cave. Silence is encouraged (and observed) and my

husband and I felt like we’d stumbled into a European art-house film. Various wildly atmospheric steam rooms with black walls and brass taps screamed sultry selfie, but phones are (sensibly) forbidden. Navigating the hushed interior’s walkways, we explored the spa’s six pools, each with its own vibe. If you want to inject romance into your relationship, I highly recommend starlight swimming in the Swiss alps. Next morning, after another swim, we hiked to nearby Leis to see the Oberhus, Unterhus and Turmlihus, innovative structures meshing traditional construction methods with huge windows. Zumthor – who is proud of the fact that he does not have an architecture degree – designed the Oberhus for his wife, Annalisa, who’d dreamed of living in a wooden house. All are now holiday lets.

TRAVEL

From Vals, we bussed and trained it to Trun, awed by the spectacular landscapes en route. We were overnighting in Trun due to its proximity to Sumvitg, a hamlet home to Zumthor’s St Benedict Chapel. Lodgings were Casa Todi, a 500-year-old family-run hotel. At dinner, Yulia served us the local speciality of beef and pork sausage with potato, the potato added, she told us, because her ancestors didn’t have enough meat. It was her grandmother’s recipe. Next morning, Evelyne Ziegler-Lombris, our interpreter, drove us to Sumvitg to meet the chapel’s custodian Vitus Bass, who grew up on the mountain. The ark-like structure was consecrated on September 25, 1988, the feast day of Saint Bruder Klaus. Like that saint’s eponymous German field chapel, it’s devoid of religious symbols (bar a small icon) – Zumthor wanted

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all visitors to feel comfortable – but pulsates with an otherworldly energy. The wooden shingle exterior belies the light, bright interior which feels as if it’s floating through the air. Bass has seen people enter and burst into tears. It made him realise that architecture can move people, he tells us. Chur, our last stop on my Zumthor pilgrimage, is the oldest city in Switzerland. It’s home to one of Zumthor’s earliest projects, the prosaically titled Protective Housing for Roman Archaeological Excavations, which he designed in 1986. Chur is the birthplace of HR Giger, designer of the terrifying titular creature in Ridley Scott’s Alien, while its Sennhof, formerly Switzerland’s most notorious prison, is our digs. Located off the main drag in the almost traffic-free old town, it’s now a hostel – the Bogentrakt – with refreshingly affordable accommodation.

Daniel Walser, our guide, leads us through Chur to Zumthor’s Protective Housing structure: three slatted timber buildings connected by a suspended steel walkway. The simplicity of the structure echoes the Roman ruins that once stood in this place but doesn’t overshadow what remains of them within. It’s a liminal space: the bustle of the now outside and the silent relics of antiquity inside, bathed in light that glows through the louvered timber. Back at the hostel, John has a snooze on the top bunk, while I stretch out on the bottom one, anticipating the cold glass of wine to come later. A warm summer breeze wafts through the open window and with it snatches of the band playing Bob Dylan in the courtyard. “Come in, she said, I’ll give you shelter from the storm...” A Perfect Moment. You just never know when they’re coming. ■

TECHNOLOGY

What happens to your social media accounts when you die? Is anyone in the family entitled to them, or any content in them? What if there are important details or documents about your life or wishes held in platforms such as Gmail, iCloud or Outlook? Adrian Weckler takes a closer look

ccording to the most recent data from the Central Statistics Office, 38% of those over 75, or around 150,000 people, have at least one social networking account. Facebook and Instagram are the big ones for elderly people, alongside the social messaging platform WhatsApp. With the average mortality rate here at 83, that means tens of thousands of Irish people are passing away every year with fully active social media accounts falling into disuse. But unless the deceased person leaves details such as passwords and pin numbers, it’s an uphill battle getting access to any of the social media accounts’ data. In general, social media and big tech firms don’t give bereaved family members, or executors, access to a deceased’s account without a special legal instruction such as a court order. They say that this is to protect the user’s expectation of privacy. The three big ones – Facebook, Instagram and TikTok – are strict on this. Unless you go to great legal lengths, the best you can do is have these accounts ‘memorialised’ (with just basic administrative

Who gets access to your social media accounts when you die? control and no ability to post or access messages) or deleted. For WhatsApp, the account is simply deleted after 120 “inactive” days and there’s no request process on behalf of bereaved families. In the case of X and Snapchat, it’s also just an option of account deletion. Where it gets more nuanced is in the case of online platforms such as iCloud (for Apple content such as Mail, Notes, Photos and iMessage), Google (Gmail, Drive and YouTube) and Microsoft (Outlook, Teams and OneDrive). Somewhere between these three platforms lie the majority of all the important documents or life details most of us have ever digitally stored. Apple says that it will provide a deceased

user’s iCloud content online with a court order in Ireland, but that it doesn’t technically have access to device passcodes. Microsoft requires something similar – a court order – for bereaved family members seeking content from Outlook, Live.com, Hotmail, MSN.com or documents from OneDrive. Google is stricter, saying that “in certain circumstances” it will give someone with the right authorisation specifically requested pieces of content, such as documents (Docs), photos (Google Photos) or videos (YouTube). But it says that it “cannot provide passwords or other login details”. While these are the conditions set out by the big social networks and online platforms, it’s

TECHNOLOGY

generally assumed that they can be overcome with specific court orders, if someone goes to the effort of requesting such an order. For bereaved family members who need access to online accounts of deceased loved ones, there are some obvious ways around these rules. The simplest method is through the deceased person’s phone. If the passcode to this device is known, there is generally a route into most online accounts, even those with ‘two-factor’ authentication as most twofactor checks are with the account-holder’s mobile number or email address, both of which you can likely now see if you are using the person’s phone. The same general path might also be used with access to the deceased person’s tablet or

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laptop, if login details either aren’t applied or are known. However, if the passcode to a phone, tablet or laptop isn’t known, there is no way to get it from the device manufacturer. Unlike social media networks, device manufacturers have no way to retrieve a passcode, which is encrypted, even if you obtain a court order. This can be a source of particular hurt for parents of young people who die unexpectedly. In a minority of cases, a deceased person may have nominated someone as a ‘legacy’ contact with a platform for when they were no longer around or incapacitated. A legacy contact is someone who would be allowed to administer basic elements of your account without having full access to all of its content.

Facebook, Instagram and Apple all have fairly quick ways of setting this up. But most people are unlikely to do this. It means that the easiest, most hassle-free way of allocating access to loved ones is simply to write down the login details somewhere safe and secure. This can also be done through a will, although it might need to be constantly updated if the user changes passwords as often as good practices says they should. The other big online account that most Irish people use, which could be part of a loved one’s enquiries, is Revolut. But as Revolut is a bank with a payments app, this is handled in a much more conventional way through a will, probate or intestacy, with money being disbursed in the normal way. ■

my day

UNCOVERING THE 9-5

social media videos and reels. Something I fallen victim to once… or twice.

Richard Spratt Chief executive, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland 6.30am The day starts with a bowl of porridge and a walk with Willow, the family golden retriever. I act as an alarm for my teenagers, willing them out of bed before I leave for the day. A quick check of my emails over breakfast to respond to anything urgent, and I am out the door. 7.30am Over the past year, I am more frequently splitting my time between Belfast and Enniskillen as we gear up for the opening of our very first Therapeutic Support Centre, which opens in May 2025. It means often I am facing a four-hour round commute, but for a very worthwhile reason. The centre will be the first of its kind in Northern Ireland. I meet a colleague in Lisburn to carpool, and we set off on our journey. 9.30am We arrive on site to meet with our architect and building contractors, it’s fantastic to see the progress every time we visit the centre. It’s true that a chief executive wears many hats, but one I didn’t intend on wearing was that of interior designer, but it has been a brilliant

challenge to pick out pieces that will really make it a ‘home from home’ sanctuary for cancer patients and their families. 11am I don’t have to walk too far to pop in and say hello to the staff and volunteers in our Enniskillen retail shop. 11.30am It’s time to meet with our Enniskillen services team to make plans for the centre opening and get updates on all the Cancer Focus NI programme activity in the greater Fermanagh and Tyrone area. The enthusiasm is infectious as the team are getting ready to operate from the new Centre. 1.30pm It’s lunch on the go as we make our way back to Belfast. 2.30pm This can be a dangerous time in the office when the Marketing Team are on the hunt for content and looking for willing (or unwilling!) colleagues to take part in the latest trends for

3pm Meeting with other senior colleagues and department leads (retail, services, fundraising, finance) or attending an event like the recent ribbon cutting at our new Bangor shop. 4.30pm I always try to finish the day with a bit of desk time, responding to any urgent matters and creating space for strategic thinking and planning. 6pm It’s time to head home to enjoy some time with the family, we always try to sit down together and catch up over some delicious dinner cooked by my wife, Katie. 7.30pm Willow is itching to get back out for another walk (anyone with a golden retriever will understand) and I get a chance to hit my daily step count. 8.30pm The laptop can often make an appearance in the evening, I like to be prepared for the next working day and plan my day and meetings. 9.30pm We always finish the day with our TV fix. My wife and I always have a series on the go, and we are currently loving Yellowstone.