The blog for smart businesspeople
Sunday, 21 December 2025
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Saturday, 20 December 2025
Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults and Children: A Business Responsibility, Not an Optional Extra
Businesses and organisations of all sizes and sectors have a legal, ethical, and reputational duty to ensure that the people they serve, employ, or come into contact with are protected from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
Whether you run a charity, a small business, a community organisation, a venue, or a large commercial enterprise, safeguarding must be embedded into your everyday operations—not treated as a tick-box exercise.
What Does Safeguarding Mean in a Business Context?
Safeguarding refers to the proactive measures taken to protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm. In a business environment, this may apply to:
Customers and service users
Employees and volunteers
Visitors, clients, or attendees
Members of the public interacting with your organisation
Vulnerable adults may include individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, learning difficulties, age-related vulnerabilities, or those experiencing social or economic hardship.
Why Safeguarding Matters to Businesses
Safeguarding is not just about compliance, it is about trust.
Failing to protect vulnerable people can result in:
Serious harm to individuals
Legal action and regulatory penalties
Reputational damage that can permanently affect your brand
Loss of funding, contracts, or partnerships
Conversely, strong safeguarding practices demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and social responsibility, qualities increasingly expected by customers, staff, and stakeholders.
Key Safeguarding Measures Every Business Should Have
1. A Clear Safeguarding Policy
Every organisation should have a written safeguarding policy that is:
Relevant to your sector and activities
Easy to understand
Accessible to staff, volunteers, and contractors
It should clearly outline:
What safeguarding means in your organisation
Expected standards of behaviour
How concerns should be raised
Who is responsible for safeguarding
Policies should be reviewed regularly and updated when legislation or organisational activities change.
2. Appoint a Safeguarding Lead
Even in small organisations, there should be a named safeguarding lead responsible for:
Receiving and responding to safeguarding concerns
Liaising with external agencies when necessary
Ensuring policies and training are up to date
This role provides clarity and reassurance, ensuring concerns are handled consistently and appropriately.
3. Safer Recruitment and Vetting
If your organisation works with children or vulnerable adults, safe recruitment practices are essential. These may include:
Enhanced background checks through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
Verifying references thoroughly
Clear role descriptions outlining safeguarding responsibilities
Recruitment should never prioritise speed over safety.
4. Training and Awareness for Staff and Volunteers
Safeguarding training should be proportionate to the role but should ensure everyone:
Recognises signs of abuse or neglect
Understands their responsibilities
Knows how to report concerns
Training should be refreshed regularly and built into induction processes, not delivered once and forgotten.
5. Clear Reporting and Whistleblowing Procedures
People must feel safe and supported when raising concerns. Your organisation should:
Provide clear reporting routes
Protect whistleblowers from retaliation
Treat all concerns seriously, even if they appear minor
Creating a culture where safeguarding concerns are welcomed, not discouraged, is critical.
6. Working With External Safeguarding Bodies
Businesses should know when and how to escalate concerns to appropriate authorities or specialist organisations such as:
Local authority safeguarding teams
Police or adult social care services
You do not need to investigate concerns yourself, your role is to report, record, and respond appropriately.
Safeguarding Is About Culture, Not Just Compliance
The most effective safeguarding systems are underpinned by a strong organisational culture. This includes:
Respectful behaviour at all levels
Zero tolerance of abuse, harassment, or exploitation
Leadership that models accountability and care
Safeguarding should be woven into everyday decision-making, from customer interactions to marketing campaigns and event planning.
A Final Thought for Business Leaders
Safeguarding vulnerable adults and children is not someone else’s job, it is everyone’s responsibility.
By taking safeguarding seriously, businesses and organisations not only protect individuals from harm but also protect themselves, their staff, and their long-term reputation.
More importantly, they play a vital role in building safer communities where trust, dignity, and wellbeing come first.
If your safeguarding policy is outdated, or doesn’t exist at all, now is the time to act.
Friday, 19 December 2025
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TikTok Shop and The King's Trust Help the Next Generation of UK Entrepreneurs Soar
SOAR brings together The King's Trust charity, which supports young people to build the confidence and skills to secure a job or setup a business, and leading discovery commerce platform TikTok Shop, who are launching their established global SOAR programme (Supporting Our Artisans and Retailers) in the UK for the first time.
Originally launched last year in the US, SOAR was created to empower small and medium businesses (SMBs), entrepreneurs and creators on TikTok Shop with tailored support and resources to help them rapidly advance their businesses.
SOAR will work with young people on The King’s Trust Enterprise programme, which offers support and funding to help young people aged 18-30 start their own business.
The UK arm of the initiative aims to equip young founders aged 18-35, particularly those who aren't in education, employment or training (NEET), with tools to build successful and sustainable businesses in today's fast moving digital economy.
The UK programme follows the success of its US counterpart, which last year saw 80 SMBs graduate from the initiative through accelerators for underrepresented groups, including women-owned businesses and veterans.
In the US, graduates of SOAR on average have grown their sales by 200%, doubling their follower base within just eight weeks. With over 2,500 applicants, the US programme demonstrated a strong appetite among entrepreneurs for this kind of support. It's expected to help over 1,000 entrepreneurs every year across markets.
Expanding the Impact of Our Partnership
This initiative builds on the partnership between TikTok and The King’s Trust, which launched in 2024.
Through its support for The King’s Trust Enterprise programme, TikTok is helping more young people from a wide range of backgrounds to turn their ideas into businesses.
Alongside the SOAR partnership, TikTok has also provided advertising credits to help The King’s Trust reach more young people on the platform and raise awareness of the opportunities available to them.
Together, we’re ensuring more young people can gain the confidence, skills and support they need to take control of their future.
Empowering Young Founders Through Discovery Commerce
Through this partnership, young founders in the UK will gain the tools to turn ideas into sustainable businesses, while developing the skills needed to succeed in the world of e-commerce.
The SOAR programme will guide participants through each stage of business development - from planning and launch to advanced growth. Training will cover digital marketing, logistics and operations, alongside building confidence, resilience and networks.
TikTok Shop Training and Tools
Entrepreneurs will also benefit from personalised onboarding to TikTok Shop, including:
Best practices for selling through live streaming
Guidance on working with creators
Using promotional tools effectively
The goal is to equip young entrepreneurs with the skills, mentorship and platform access they need to launch and grow successful businesses, while driving inclusive economic growth.
Three Key Areas of Focus for UK Entrepreneurs
The UK SOAR programme will focus on three priorities:
Digital Skills Development - Bridging the e-commerce skills gap identified in the UK and EU Digital Education Action Plan
Youth Economic Empowerment - Helping NEET individuals transition into sustainable self-employment
Entrepreneurial Growth – Supporting young innovators to scale their businesses both within the UK and internationally
Jan Wilk, Head of TikTok Shop UK told That's Business: “We believe e-commerce should be about more than transactions, it’s about connection, creativity and opportunity. That’s why we’re so excited to be launching SOAR in the UK for the very first time, building on the programme’s proven success globally.
"Through SOAR, we’re proud to work with The King’s Trust to give young entrepreneurs the skills, confidence and visibility they need to grow their businesses and make an impact. By empowering participants to create meaningful shopping experiences through storytelling and engagement, and by supporting underrepresented groups, we aim to spark inclusive economic growth while helping the next generation of entrepreneurs thrive."
Jo McKnight, Head of Enterprise at The King’s Trust added: “The King’s Trust Enterprise programme has supported tens of thousands of young people into self-employment, with TikTok’s support enabling us to reach even more young entrepreneurs access the confidence, skills and opportunities to make this happen.
“By combining our experience and knowledge with TikTok Shop’s platform, expertise and e-commerce tools, we can continue to help young entrepreneurs across the UK turn their ideas into thriving businesses and ultimately, to take control of their future.”
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Wednesday, 17 December 2025
Why Are So Many UK Pharmacies Filthy? A Business and Trust Crisis
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Pharmacies occupy a unique position on the British high street. They are not just retail outlets; they are healthcare environments.
People visit them when they are unwell, vulnerable, elderly, or managing long-term conditions.
Yet increasingly, customers report walking into pharmacies that are visibly dirty: dusty shelves, grimy floors, filthy skirting boards, cluttered counters, overflowing bins, and unhygienic consultation areas.
This raises an uncomfortable question for the sector: why are so many pharmacies failing basic cleanliness standards, and what does this say about how they are being run?
Cleanliness Is Not Cosmetic in Healthcare
In most retail environments, poor cleanliness is off-putting. In a pharmacy, it is potentially dangerous.
Pharmacies handle prescription medicines, controlled drugs, medical devices, and confidential patient consultations. They also provide vaccination services.
They are expected to operate to standards aligned with infection control, public health guidance, and Care Quality Commission (CQC) expectations. A visibly dirty pharmacy undermines confidence in everything else it does.
Customers reasonably ask: If the floor is filthy, how careful are they with my medication? And if the consultation room where I'll be vaccinated obviously hasn't been cleaned in a long time, could I get an infection?
Cost-Cutting and Chronic Understaffing
One major driver is relentless cost pressure.
Independent pharmacies and national chains alike have faced years of squeezed margins, rising rents, increased energy costs, and static NHS funding. Cleaning contracts are often one of the first corners cut. Daily professional cleaning is replaced with “when we can manage it”, usually by already overworked staff.
When pharmacists and dispensers are expected to clean toilets, vacuum floors, manage stock, serve customers, and dispense safely, something will give. Cleanliness usually loses.
Retail First, Healthcare Second
Many pharmacies now resemble convenience stores more than healthcare facilities. Shelves are crammed with promotional stock, seasonal displays, and impulse items. Back rooms are overflowing, deliveries are stacked in public areas, and clutter builds quickly.
This retail-heavy model prioritises sales per square foot over safe, calm, hygienic environments. Ironically, it often damages sales by driving customers away.
Poor Management and Weak Accountability
Cleanliness failures often point to deeper management problems.
Some pharmacy owners and head offices rely on inspection fear rather than day-to-day standards. Cleaning only improves when a CQC visit or head office audit is expected. In between, there is little accountability, no cleaning logs, and no ownership of the issue.
A well-run pharmacy treats cleanliness as a non-negotiable operational standard, not an optional extra.
Trust Is Easy to Lose and Hard to Regain
Pharmacies trade on trust. Patients trust pharmacists with their medication, medical advice, and private information. A dirty environment silently erodes that trust.
Once customers feel uncomfortable, they do not complain – they simply go elsewhere. In an increasingly competitive market, this is commercial self-harm.
Regulatory and Reputational Risk
Filthy pharmacies also expose businesses to serious risk:
CQC enforcement action
Negative local reviews
Staff dissatisfaction and turnover
Increased risk of contamination or error
None of these are abstract threats. They directly affect revenue, recruitment, and long-term viability.
Cleanliness Is a Leadership Issue
Ultimately, dirty pharmacies are not a cleaning problem. They are a leadership problem.
Clean, organised premises signal professionalism, competence, and care. They reassure customers before a single word is spoken.
For a sector that depends on public confidence, neglecting cleanliness is not just careless, it is commercially reckless.
If pharmacies want to be taken seriously as frontline healthcare providers rather than struggling retailers, they must start by getting the basics right.
And nothing is more basic, or more visible, than a clean floor, a tidy counter, and a space that feels safe to step into when you are already unwell.
British-Made uPVC Sash Windows Prove Resilience in Real-World Hurricane Conditions
The windows formed part of a bespoke window and door package supplied from the UK several years ago for a new residential build.
Following the storm, post-event the homeowner confirmed all uPVC sash windows remained fully intact, with no visible damage to frames or glazing.
In contrast, several accompanying uPVC French doors installed on the same property sustained storm damage as a result of extreme wind pressure and flying debris, highlighting the differing performance demands placed on window and door systems in severe weather environments.
“We’re proud that our sash windows stood firm in such challenging conditions,” Colin Greenslade, founder of Colin’s Sash Windows, told That's Business.
“They have been laboratory tested in up to 140mph winds but this provided a genuine real-world test of the Spectus system and demonstrated the strength of its design and fabrication.”
While the project was based overseas, the company says the results are equally relevant to UK homeowners, architects and specifiers, as resilience and durability become increasingly important considerations in window design amid changing global weather patterns.
Colin’s Sash Windows continues to supply and export bespoke window and door packages to international markets, applying lessons learned from real-world installations to improve long-term performance across its product range.
FACTFILE:
Founded in 2014, Colin’s Sash Windows supplies high-quality uPVC sash windows, casement windows, aluminium and steel heritage doors, and FD30 fire-rated internal steel doors. The company serves customers across the UK, Ireland and selected overseas markets, combining traditional British design with modern manufacturing standards.
For more information, visit https://www.colinssashwindows.co.uk
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Sunday, 14 December 2025
How to Start a Podcast: A Simple, Realistic Guide for Beginners
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Whether you want to podcast as a hobby, a creative outlet, or part of a wider brand, the good news is this: you do not need expensive equipment, a studio, or a huge following to start.
What you do need is clarity, consistency, and a willingness to begin before everything feels perfect.
This guide walks you through how to start a podcast step by step — without overwhelm.
1. Decide What Your Podcast Is About (and Who It’s For)
Before you buy equipment or record anything, get clear on your purpose.
Ask yourself:
What topics could I talk about repeatedly?
Who is this podcast for?
What will listeners gain from tuning in?
Your podcast does not need to be groundbreaking. It does need to be focused.
Strong podcast themes include:
Personal experiences and storytelling
Interviews with people in a specific field
Companion content to a blog, business, or community
A clear theme helps listeners understand instantly whether your podcast is for them.
2. Choose a Simple Podcast Format
Keeping your format simple makes podcasting far more sustainable.
Popular beginner-friendly formats include:
Solo podcasts (just you speaking)
Short-form episodes (10–20 minutes)
You do not need music, sound effects, or complicated editing to begin. Many successful podcasts started with nothing more than a voice and a clear idea.
3. Get Basic Podcast Equipment (Without Overspending)
You can start podcasting with minimal kit.
At a basic level, you need:
A decent microphone (USB microphones are ideal for beginners)
Headphones to prevent audio feedback
A quiet room with soft furnishings to reduce echo
You do not need:
A professional studio
Expensive mixers
High-end software
Good content matters far more than perfect sound — especially when you are starting out.
4. Record Your Podcast
Recording can feel intimidating at first, but it becomes easier quickly.
Helpful tips:
Record in a quiet space
Speak naturally — imagine one person listening
Pause if you need to; mistakes can be edited out
Don’t aim for perfection — aim for clarity
Free or low-cost recording tools are more than sufficient for beginners.
5. Edit (Lightly) and Keep It Natural
Editing does not need to be complex.
Focus on:
Cutting obvious mistakes
Adjusting volume if needed
Over-editing can make a podcast feel unnatural. Listeners prefer authenticity over polish.
As your confidence grows, you can refine your editing style, but it’s not essential at the start.
6. Choose a Podcast Hosting Platform
Podcast episodes are stored on a hosting platform, which then distributes them to apps like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Your host will:
Store your audio files
Generate your podcast feed
Submit your podcast to major directories
Provide basic listening statistics
Choose a platform that fits your budget and feels easy to use.
7. Create Simple Podcast Branding
Your podcast needs:
A clear name
A short description
Cover artwork that looks good at small sizes
Your artwork does not need to be elaborate. Clean text, strong contrast, and clarity matter more than complexity.
Your description should explain:
What the podcast is about
Who it’s for
How often you publish (if known)
8. Publish Your First Episode (Even If You’re Nervous)
This is the step many people delay, often indefinitely.
Your first episode does not need to be perfect. It can simply be:
An introduction to you
Why you started the podcast
What listeners can expect
Confidence comes from doing, not waiting.
Once you publish, you are officially a podcaster.
9. Promote Your Podcast Gently and Consistently
You do not need aggressive promotion.
Simple promotion ideas:
Share new episodes on social media
Mention your podcast on your blog or website
Encourage listeners to subscribe rather than “go viral”
Repurpose episodes into short clips or written posts
Podcast growth is usually slow and steady — and that’s normal.
10. Keep Going (Consistency Beats Perfection)
Most podcasts fail not because they are bad, but because they stop too soon.
Set a realistic schedule:
Weekly
Fortnightly
Monthly
Choose something you can maintain without burnout.
Even a small, loyal audience is a success.
Final Thoughts: You Learn by Podcasting
You do not become a confident podcaster before you start.
You become one by starting.
Podcasting is a skill that grows with practice, your voice, confidence, and style will evolve naturally over time.
If you have something to say, there is room for your podcast.
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Friday, 12 December 2025
Why an Outdated Press Office Costs Businesses and Charities Media Coverage
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| If you media information is outdated, nobody is happy |
For journalists, producers, bloggers, and editors, a well-maintained press and media section is a sign of a serious, credible organisation.
It shows that you understand how the media works, that you value coverage, and that you are prepared to engage professionally.
Unfortunately, far too many businesses, charities, and organisations undermine themselves at the final hurdle.
A journalist can be reading an interesting, relevant, well-written press release, only to click through to the “Press” or “Media” section of the organisation’s website and discover that the latest press release is two or even three years old.
UPDATE: I just found a "new" press release on a charity website that is five years old and mentioning the problems caused by COVID.
At that moment, enthusiasm drains away and frustration begins to take over.
Why Out-of-Date Press Pages Are a Red Flag
From a media professional’s perspective, an outdated press office raises immediate concerns:
Is this organisation still active?
Do they take media relations seriously?
Will anyone respond if I make contact?
Is the information accurate and current?
Journalists work under tight deadlines. They do not have the time to chase organisations that appear dormant, disorganised, or uninterested in engagement.
If your press page looks abandoned, your story is far less likely to be pursued, no matter how good it is.
First Impressions Matter More Than Ever
Your press and media page is often viewed before any contact is made.
It should immediately reassure journalists that:
The organisation is active
Information is current
Contact details are correct
Press material can be trusted
An outdated press section does the opposite. It creates doubt, friction, and hesitation, all of which make it easier for a journalist to move on to another story.
Many organisations fall into the same traps:
1. “We’ll update it later”
Press pages are often built during a website redesign and then quietly forgotten. Months pass. Then years.
2. Only updating when there’s ‘big news’
Smaller updates still matter. Partnerships, appointments, milestones, awards, and campaigns all demonstrate activity.
3. No named media contact
Generic inboxes with no named press contact feel impersonal and unreliable.
Nothing signals neglect faster than links that no longer work.
What Journalists Actually Want to See
Keeping your press office current does not require a full-time PR team. It requires consistency and awareness.
At minimum, journalists expect:
Press releases dated within the last 3–6 months
A clearly named press or media contact
A working email address and phone number
A brief “About Us” summary they can trust
Access to logos or images if available
Even modest updates reassure journalists that your organisation is alive, responsive, and professional.
The Cost of Neglecting Your Press Page
An outdated press office doesn’t just lose you coverage — it can actively damage your reputation.
It suggests:
Low priority given to transparency
Missed opportunities for visibility
For charities, this can affect funding and public trust.
For businesses, it can impact credibility with customers, partners, and investors.
For SMEs, it can mean missing the very exposure that could help them grow.
A Simple Maintenance Rule That Works
If you take nothing else from this article, follow this rule:
If your latest press release is over a year old, your press office is overdue for attention.
Set a reminder to review your press page every quarter. Even adding a short update or statement can make a meaningful difference.
Press Offices Are Not Just for Big Organisations
There is a common misconception that only large corporations need a press office.
In reality:
SMEs
…all benefit from appearing press-ready.
Local journalists, trade publications, bloggers, and niche media outlets regularly look for credible sources — but they will not chase organisations that appear disengaged.
Final Thought: Don’t Let Good Stories Die on Your Website
It is genuinely frustrating for journalists to find a promising press release, only to discover that the organisation behind it appears to have stopped communicating years ago.
Your press office should work for you, quietly opening doors, building trust, and making it easy for the media to say “yes”.
Keeping it up-to-date is not a luxury.
It is a basic, powerful business discipline.
And in a competitive media landscape, it can be the difference between being featured, or being forgotten.
One of the things you can do is to work with organisations like Pressat to help them send press releases out to relevant journalists, publications, broadcasters, etc:-
"Why Every Organisation, From SMEs to Large Corporations and Charities, Should Use Pressat to Reach the Media"
https://thats-business.blogspot.com/2025/12/why-every-organisation-from-smes-to.html
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Christmas Catering Warning: Why Food Safety Failures Can Destroy a Business
For many businesses, Christmas is the busiest and most profitable time of the year. Hospitality venues run at full capacity, offices host festive events, charities provide community meals, and temporary catering operations spring up everywhere.
It is also the time of year when food poisoning outbreaks spike, and when a single mistake can cause lasting reputational, legal and financial damage to a business.
Food safety at Christmas is not just a hygiene issue. It is a business risk.
Why Christmas Increases Food Safety Risk for Businesses
The festive period creates conditions that significantly raise the likelihood of foodborne illness:
High volumes of food prepared in short timeframes
Seasonal or temporary staff with limited training
Overcrowded cold storage and rushed prep areas
Extended opening hours and staff fatigue
Increased use of buffets, shared platters and pre-prepared food
Under pressure, even well-run kitchens can slip. Regulators, however, do not offer festive exemptions.
The Business Consequences of Food Poisoning Outbreaks
Environmental Health investigations
Temporary or permanent closure
Poor hygiene ratings published online
Legal claims and compensation payouts
Loss of customer trust and future bookings
Severe reputational damage on social media
In extreme cases, particularly where vulnerable people are affected, businesses may face criminal prosecution.
At Christmas, when incidents attract higher media attention, the fallout can be swift and unforgiving.
Key Food Safety Risks Businesses Must Control
1. Temperature Control Under Pressure
Overfilled fridges and hot holding units are common in December.
Cold storage must remain at 5°C or below
Hot food must be held at 63°C or above
Cooked food must be cooled quickly and stored safely
Reheating must be thorough and done only once
Temperature logs should never be guessed or backfilled.
2. Seasonal Staff Are a Known Weak Point
Temporary workers are essential during peak periods, but they increase risk.
Food hygiene training must be provided before handling food
Supervision is critical during busy services
Assumptions about prior experience are dangerous
Lack of training is one of the first issues identified during inspections.
3. Cross-Contamination Risks Increase at Christmas
Busy prep areas make separation harder but more important.
Raw and ready-to-eat foods must be kept strictly separate
Colour-coded boards and utensils must be enforced
Handwashing procedures must be followed consistently
Festive menus often involve poultry, gravies and large joints of meat, all high-risk if mishandled.
4. Buffets and Shared Service Need Extra Care
Self-service food significantly increases contamination risk.
Food must not be left out beyond safe time limits
Serving utensils must be replaced regularly
Clear allergen labelling is essential
High-risk foods may be inappropriate for certain settings
Buffets are convenient, but they require careful management.
Vulnerable Groups Increase Duty of Care
Businesses serving older people, children, pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals must apply stricter controls.
Care homes, hospitals, schools, charities and community events must avoid high-risk foods and ensure clear allergen management. Failure here can have serious legal and ethical consequences.
Compliance Is a Commercial Asset
Strong food safety practices are not a burden — they are a competitive advantage.
Better inspection outcomes
Higher hygiene ratings
Increased customer confidence
Reduced risk of disruption during peak trading
At a time when customers are choosing venues carefully, visible professionalism matters.
A Preventable Risk in a High-Value Season
Christmas food poisoning outbreaks are rarely the result of one dramatic error. They are usually caused by small shortcuts, rushed decisions, or systems failing under pressure.
For businesses, the cost of prevention is always lower than the cost of recovery.
Christmas should be remembered for record takings and satisfied customers, not for investigations, illness and reputational damage that lasts long into the new year.
Tuesday, 9 December 2025
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Why Every Organisation, From SMEs to Large Corporations and Charities, Should Use Pressat to Reach the Media
In a crowded marketplace, even the most innovative business or the most impactful charity can struggle to get its message heard.
Journalists’ inboxes are overflowing, social media algorithms change daily, and consumers are bombarded by more content than ever before.
This is where a trusted newswire service becomes essential, and why Pressat remains one of the UK’s most effective tools for distributing press releases with real impact.
Whether you run a small family business, a growing SME, a national brand or a charitable organisation, Pressat offers a fast, efficient and credible route to media exposure that you simply cannot achieve through organic reach alone.
A Direct Line to Journalists and Media Outlets
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| Busy journalists find Pressat very helpful |
Instead of hoping your email reaches the right person, Pressat ensures your announcement appears directly in the inboxes and news feeds of people who are actively looking for stories.
From my personal perspective this service works well as my inbox receives special emails concerning my specific requirements from Pressat.
For SMEs and charities in particular, this levels the playing field. You don’t need an in-house PR team to get national coverage, Pressat does the heavy lifting for you.
Immediate Visibility in Major Search Engines
Press releases published through Pressat are indexed quickly by Google, Bing and other major search engines. For organisations of all sizes, this delivers:
A boost in online visibility
Fresh, relevant content for search engines to recognise
Improved brand authority
Higher chances of appearing in news search results when people look up your industry or cause
For businesses working on SEO and brand recognition, this alone makes Pressat an invaluable tool.
Targeted Distribution for Better Engagement
Pressat allows users to tailor their distribution to specific sectors such as:
Environment and sustainability
This ensures your news reaches media professionals who actually cover your field, increasing the likelihood of engagement, follow-up queries and coverage.
Building Long-Term Brand Credibility
Press releases are more than just announcements they build a digital footprint. With consistent use, Pressat helps organisations establish:
Proven legitimacy
A history of growth and activity
A steady trail of authoritative media mentions
For charities, this reinforces trust with supporters. For SMEs and larger companies, it signals to customers, suppliers and investors that you are active, transparent and evolving.
Cost-Effective PR for Organisations Without Big Budgets
Hiring an agency or in-house PR team can be expensive. Many small businesses and charities simply can’t justify the cost. Pressat provides an affordable alternative:
No monthly retainers
No complex contracts
Simple, clear pricing per release
You stay in control of your budget while still accessing a professional media distribution service.
Support for Time-Pressed Organisations
Pressat offers additional features such as writing assistance, proofreading and editing. This is ideal for busy SMEs, stretched charity teams or corporate departments needing to get polished, accurate news out quickly.
The platform ensures your announcement is crafted in the right format, using journalist-friendly language and industry-standard layout, all essential for successful coverage.
An Essential Tool in Modern PR
In today’s media environment, relying on traditional outreach alone simply isn’t enough. A high-quality newswire service bridges the gap between organisations and the journalists who shape public conversation.
Pressat offers:
Speed
Reliability
Clear distribution channels
SEO advantages
Affordable access
Professional production standards
Whether you’re promoting a new product, announcing a charity campaign, highlighting achievements or sharing financial results, Pressat ensures your story is seen, heard and taken seriously.
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Old Skool Bus Events shortlisted in TWO categories of the Festival Supplier Awards 2026
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| Kate Packham with chefs Libby and Nik |
Taking place on Thursday 29th January at the De Vere Connaught Rooms in central London, the awards celebrate outdoor events and all the fantastic suppliers and production teams who deliver them.
The company is shortlisted in the Best New Product/Service of the year category, AND the Best Support Service – Crew Catering category for its work on Glastonbury Festival 2025.
Director, Kate Packham, has worked in event management for 25 years, everything from running a corporate event company, organising parties and weddings, to on site roles in festivals including Boomtown, Shambala, Glastonbury, The Great Escape, Pride, and Secret Garden Party.
However she only started the original business ‘The Old Skool Bus & Kitchen’ in lockdown 2020 with two friends, using the food truck for charity projects! Fast forward three years and separating from her original partners, she relaunched as ‘Old Skool Bus Events - Kitchen & Bar’.
The business operates in two main event sectors, event catering locally in Sussex with food trucks for private parties, weddings and corporate events, and also, the main one, in the UK festival industry.
Kate told That's Business: “We're absolutely blown away that in just 18 months of relaunching our ‘Old Skool Bus Events - Kitchen & Bar’ that we would be shortlisted in TWO award categories in the UK Festival Supplier Awards!”
She added: “We regularly trade with our food truck, named ‘Bella’, at festivals and outdoor events, however it's within the crew catering services that we have progressed the most. This year we were the first crew caterer to open on site at Glastonbury’s Worthy Farm, and we were the last to close eight weeks later. We served over 40,000 meals in those 56 consecutive days of dishing up breakfast, lunch and dinner to the incredible, hard working crew!”
Kate qualified in Nutrition & Health Coaching in February 2025, to put her in a much more knowledgeable position to develop sustainable and nourishing menus for crew and artists on site, who need to feel energised to work hard and perform well. Kate also claims that they have totally restructured the new business in terms of standards and policies, staff welfare, sustainability, inclusivity, and in Spring 2025 she recruited a whole new selection of awesome chefs and staff.
The Festival Supplier Awards are now in their eleventh year and are a firm favourite in the festival and outdoor event industry’s calendar, providing an opportunity for companies to showcase innovation, expertise and dedication within the sector.
Michelle Tayton, event director of the Festival Supplier Awards comments: “Once again, we’ve been amazed and pleased by both the volume and calibre of entries for the Festival Supplier Awards. Our finalists really highlight the creativity, capability and capacity that exists within the outdoor event industry. Making the shortlist is an achievement in itself and Old Skool Bus Events has been recognised for its hard work and ability to deliver.”
With a focus on delivery, customer service and sustainable initiatives, the awards are judged by an esteemed panel of high-profile industry experts.
These include Roger Hooker, Hooked on Events; Elle McMahon, The Ticket Crowd; Jake Vernum, Production Manager; Tess Wilson, IMG; Ben Hardy, REM Events; Jess Noakes, LS Events; Ben Craddock, London Marathon Events; Catherine Bishop, Stable Events; Mark Currie, Royal Highland Show; Kat Brown, Engine No.4; Neil Levene, CarFest; Kim Bickell, CSG Events; Paul Dunstan, Ryder Cup; Frankie Tee, EnTEEtainment; Harry Guthrie, HG Event Production; Joe Nichols, NW Live; Jess Shields, Far and Beyond; Kate Middleton, Bray Leino Events and Rik Weightman, Live Nation.
The award ceremony and dinner will be held at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, London on Thursday 29 January.
Thursday, 4 December 2025
Why Small Business Saturday Matters More Than Ever for UK Entrepreneurs
Small Business Saturday has become one of the most important dates in the UK retail and service calendar.
Falling on the first Saturday of December each year, it shines a spotlight on the independent shops, makers, cafés, tradespeople, and home-grown enterprises that keep our high streets vibrant and our local economies moving.
For small business owners, it’s far more than a feel-good celebration, it’s a genuine opportunity to attract new customers, boost December revenue, and build long-term loyalty.
A Day that Drives Real Results
Since its launch in 2013, Small Business Saturday UK has grown into a national movement supported by councils, local enterprise groups, and consumers who want to shop locally. Each year, thousands of businesses take part, and many report significantly higher footfall and online engagement.
Even better, the campaign now spans more than a single day. With social media hashtags, media coverage, and support from business networks, the momentum builds throughout November and December—giving small businesses a valuable promotional lift during the busiest retail season of the year.
Why Your Small Business Should Get Involved
If you’re running a small business, whether bricks-and-mortar or online, there are several reasons to weave Small Business Saturday into your December strategy.
1. Increased Visibility
With the national media spotlight firmly pointed at independent businesses, this is the perfect moment to showcase what makes your brand unique. A simple campaign, offer, or behind-the-scenes story can capture attention far beyond your usual reach.
2. A Boost to Community Loyalty
Customers love to support local. By participating, you reinforce the message that your business contributes to the community, something shoppers increasingly value as they try to keep money circulating within their towns and cities.
3. Opportunities for Collaboration
Small Business Saturday encourages partnerships. Joint promotions with neighbouring shops, special trails or maps, and shared social media campaigns all help drive footfall and foster a supportive business ecosystem.
4. A Smart Way to Increase Pre-Christmas Revenue
With Christmas shopping in full swing, offering themed bundles, gift cards, discounts or exclusive services can create a welcome spike in sales. It’s ideal timing to convert one-off visitors into long-term customers.
How to Make the Most of Small Business Saturday
Participation doesn’t need to be complicated or costly. Here are practical ideas your business can implement quickly:
Refresh your shopfront or website
A tidy window display, seasonal signage, or a homepage banner announcing your involvement signals professionalism and draws interest.
Create a one-day offer
Think “£10 specials,” discount codes, limited-edition products, free gift wrapping, or loyalty stamps exclusive to the day.
Tell your story
Shoppers increasingly want authenticity. Share how your business started, who’s behind it, or what your mission is. A heartfelt story can be more effective than any advert.
Encourage user-generated content
Ask customers to tag your business on social media using the #SmallBizSatUK hashtag. It boosts visibility and helps your brand travel further—especially if local media or councils pick it up.
Team up with nearby independents
Joint promotions can turn occasional shoppers into people who spend the entire afternoon exploring local businesses.
A Chance to Look Ahead
Small Business Saturday is also a brilliant moment to reflect on your business strategy for the year ahead. What do customers respond well to? Which products fly off the shelves? What collaborations work best? Insights gained during the event can guide your marketing and investment decisions for the new year.
Celebrate Your Success
Whether you run a family-owned shop, a creative studio, a consultancy, or a home-based microbusiness, Small Business Saturday is your day to shine. Even a modest campaign can lead to increased visibility, stronger customer relationships, and a welcome lift in festive season revenue.
Independent businesses form the backbone of the UK economy, and this nationwide celebration reminds customers just how vital they are.
Why Renaming Birmingham International Airport Ozzy Osbourne International Airport Could Be a Smart Business Move
Why Renaming Birmingham International Airport Could Be a Smart Business Move
Birmingham International Airport has gone by several names in its lifetime. It opened in 1939 as Elmdon Airport, later evolved into Birmingham International, and today operates as Birmingham Airport.
But as the travel industry becomes more competitive, and as regions work harder to differentiate themselves in a crowded global marketplace — the conversation about rebranding the airport has resurfaced.
This time, the suggestion is bolder, louder, and unmistakably Brummie:
Renaming it Ozzy Osbourne International Airport.
What started as a light-hearted idea has quickly gained traction. Yet when you look beyond the novelty, the business case is surprisingly strong.
A Branding Opportunity Worth Millions
Airports aren’t just transport hubs; they are gateways to regional identity. Cities around the world have embraced high-impact branding opportunities, from Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport. These names carry instant recognition, emotional resonance, and powerful marketing advantages.
Renaming Birmingham’s airport after one of the world’s most iconic musicians — and one of the West Midlands’ most famous sons — would create international buzz. In pure marketing terms, it’s hard to buy that level of global exposure.
A distinctive name can:
Boost the airport’s international profile
Strengthen Birmingham’s tourism identity
Give the region a memorable, marketable story
Generate free global press coverage whenever Ozzy Osbourne is mentioned
Encourage airlines to spotlight Birmingham as a vibrant, culturally rich destination
For a city that is increasingly pushing its position as a major UK hub for business, culture, and sport, a globally recognisable airport name would be a strategic asset.
Tourism and Passenger Growth
Tourism boards spend millions trying to drive footfall. But a single high-profile brand shift can do that job instantly. Fans of Ozzy Osbourne are spread across every continent, and the “Prince of Darkness” has an enduring cultural pull that spans generations.
Imagine the merchandising potential, pop-culture-themed airport experiences, branded shops, and tie-ins with music tourism. Cities such as Memphis, Nashville, and Liverpool have successfully leveraged their musical heritage to attract visitors — and there’s no reason Birmingham shouldn’t follow suit.
Even for travellers with no connection to heavy metal, the airport name would simply be fun, memorable, and conversation-worthy. And in an era where cities are constantly competing for attention, memorable matters.
A Boost for the Wider Birmingham Region
The business benefits wouldn’t stop at the terminal doors. A bold rebrand would ripple across the broader West Midlands:
● Hospitality
Hotels, restaurants, bars, venues, and entertainment districts would gain from increased visitor numbers and global curiosity.
● Local SMEs
From taxi firms to tour operators to independent shops, footfall drives spending — and spending supports local enterprise.
● Cultural Economy
Birmingham’s venues, festivals, and creative industries would have a powerful new anchor point for storytelling and international marketing campaigns.
● Regional Pride and Identity
A name that reflects Birmingham’s cultural output reinforces confidence at home while projecting character abroad. It signals a city comfortable in its own skin — and proud of its contributions to global culture.
A High-Value Talking Point for Decades to Come
Every airport rebrand attracts initial attention. Few become legendary. A renaming after Ozzy Osbourne would almost certainly create a destination that travellers talk about, remember, and share. Social media alone would explode with photos of boarding passes, signage, and merchandise — a wave of free publicity that would cost other regions a fortune.
And for Birmingham, a city continuing to reinvent itself, this kind of global storytelling is exactly what supports inward investment, international business development, and long-term growth.
A Serious Proposal with Serious Business Potential
It’s easy to dismiss the idea as a novelty, but the numbers, comparisons, and case studies suggest otherwise. Birmingham Airport’s next chapter should reflect:
its international ambition
its cultural heritage
its confidence in the global arena
Renaming it Ozzy Osbourne International Airport does all three.
This is more than a quirky proposal. It’s a bold, creative, and commercially sensible opportunity to position Birmingham as one of Europe’s most distinctive and dynamic travel gateways.
And if the city wants to send a message to the world that Birmingham is ready to stand out — there are few names louder, prouder, and more globally recognised than Ozzy Osbourne’s.
As an interesting aside my wife and I were in my home city of Birmingham, I showed her where I had been born and raised, we went shopping and before we caught the train back home we decided to pop into a Yates' Wine Lodge for a quiet drink.
It was empty save for one man with very long dark hair who was drinking orange juice from a pint glass. He asked is if we minded if he joined us?
We invited him to join us and we began talking. He told us he was drinking orange juice because of the medications for his neurological condition that had afflicted his grandfather before him.
He told us that he was in Birmingham to visit relatives who still lived in Aston, I was able to tell him that I'd been born in Ladywood which was not far across the Birmingham city centre from Aston.
When he left the table to visit the toilets my wife turned to me and said: "That's Ozzy Osborne, isn't it?"
I agreed that it was indeed Ozzy. When he came back we continued to chat, we never acknowledged that we knew who he was which made the evening even more magical.
Ozzy Osboune International Airport? I believe that would be a good idea.
If you would like to sign the petition you can follow this link:-
https://c.org/yHYyyGW8yV
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