How to Conduct a SWOT Analysis for Your Business

In the world of business, success is often the result of a well-thought-out strategy. A crucial step in developing such a strategy is conducting a SWOT analysis. 

SWOT, which stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, is a valuable tool for assessing your business's current position and making informed decisions about its future. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of conducting a SWOT analysis to help you better understand your business and plan for success.

1. Identifying Your Strengths

The first step in a SWOT analysis is to identify your business's strengths. These are internal factors that give your business a competitive advantage. To identify your strengths, consider the following questions:

What does your business do exceptionally well?

What unique resources or assets does your business possess?

Are there any key personnel or teams that contribute significantly to your success?

What are your top-selling products or services?

Strengths are often related to core competencies, brand reputation, customer loyalty, and any distinctive qualities that set your business apart from competitors. Make a comprehensive list of your business's strengths, as they form the foundation of your strategic planning.

2. Identifying Your Weaknesses

Next, it's essential to evaluate your business's weaknesses. Weaknesses are internal factors that hinder your success or pose challenges to your operations. To identify your weaknesses, consider the following questions:

What aspects of your business could use improvement?

Are there any resource constraints or limitations, such as financial or human resources?

Do you face any recurring problems or bottlenecks?

Are there areas where competitors outperform you?

Being honest and critical during this phase is crucial because acknowledging your weaknesses is the first step towards addressing and improving them. Remember, it's an opportunity for growth.

3. Identifying Opportunities

Now, let's shift our focus to external factors that can benefit your business – opportunities. Opportunities are favorable conditions in the external environment that you can exploit. To identify opportunities, consider the following:

What emerging trends or market changes could benefit your business?

Are there unmet needs or underserved customer segments in your industry?

Have there been recent regulatory changes or technological advancements that you can leverage?

Are there partnerships or collaborations that could enhance your business's growth?

By recognising opportunities, you can position your business to take advantage of market dynamics and stay ahead of the competition.

4. Identifying Threats

The final component of a SWOT analysis is identifying threats, which are external factors that could potentially harm your business. To identify threats, consider the following questions:

What are the biggest challenges your industry faces?

Are there economic, political, or environmental factors that may impact your business negatively?

Who are your main competitors, and what threats do they pose?

Are there any technological or market trends that could disrupt your business?

Understanding potential threats allows you to develop strategies to mitigate their impact and prepare for contingencies.

5. Analysing and Prioritising Your SWOT Factors

After identifying your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, it's time to analyse and prioritize them. Look for connections between these factors and consider how you can leverage your strengths to seize opportunities and address weaknesses to mitigate threats.

Some factors may have a higher impact on your business than others. Prioritise them based on their significance and the level of influence you can exert over them.

6. Developing an Action Plan

The final step in the SWOT analysis process is to develop an action plan based on your findings. Create strategies that capitalize on your strengths and opportunities while addressing your weaknesses and threats. Your plan should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) to ensure its effectiveness.

A SWOT analysis is a powerful tool that can guide your business's strategic planning and decision-making. By understanding your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, you can make informed choices to navigate the competitive landscape and position your business for success. Regularly revisiting and updating your SWOT analysis is essential, as the business environment is constantly evolving. So, start your SWOT analysis today and pave the way for a more prosperous future for your business.

Excel Grows its Category 6A Market Share

Excel Networking, the copper and optical fibre infrastructure provider, is delighted to announce that their share of the Category 6A market has increased to 22% putting them second in the UK, based on 2022 sales figures.

BSRIA, the UK-based testing, instrumentation, research and consultancy organisation, published their World Market for Structured Cabling report in April 2023, where the announcement was reported.

In the latest report BSRIA reported that Category 6 still accounts for most of the total market share but Category 6A solutions are expected to grow and be on par with Category 6 during 2023 and with more than half of the Category 6A connections being shielded.

Ross McLetchie UK Sales Director told That's Business: “We're really delighted to see the increase in the Category 6A market share, we're seeing far more tenders requesting Category 6A solutions and we took the decision some time ago to standardise our screened and unscreened Category 6a cable designs to offer B2ca Euroclass performance therefore giving our customers the highest classification of resistance to fire, as well as market leading performance levels.”

Ross continued “Our range of Category 6A components is extensive with a wide choice of unloaded keystone patch frames including 0.5U panels, angled keystone jack panels, angled and flat patch panels, many of which are suitable for high density applications. We’ve also recently launched a range of Category 6A Mini LSOH Blade Patch Leads with a unique plug that is short in length and much easier for engineers to handle. The range is constantly being enhanced and developed.”

Ross went on to say: “The Excel brand has been built on a foundation of being a quality, premium performance end-to-end infrastructure solution backed by a comprehensive 25-year warranty. Our unrivalled product range that is supported by independent third-party verification is fully CPR UKCA compliant.”

Ross concluded “Sustainability is a key focus are for the brand, we were the first vendor to remove [single-use plastichttps://excel-networking.com/plastic-free-packaging] from the majority of our product packaging, and we are continuing to reduce the amount of packaging where we can and supply products in FSC sourced cardboard and paper. We are now also providing Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) to provide quantifiable data to demonstrate the environmental impact of our products – these reports can be downloaded from our website and are particularly useful for tender responses.”

For more information about Excel and their product offering, visit their new website at www.excel-networking.com or for details about pricing, contact the Excel sales team: sales@excel-networking.com.

Visuado Joins Flux Innovation Lounge as a Key Innovation Partner

With the addition of Visuado and further cutting-edge technology partners, Flux remains at the forefront of business innovation.

Creative technology agency Engage Works is excited to announce Visuado as its latest innovation partner in its pioneering Flux Innovation Lounge.

Visuado, a prop-tech startup established in 2019 and based in Oslo, specialises in creating 3D virtual viewings for newbuild developments, offering a unique visualisation solution for property developers.

Visuado's mission is to empower property developers to sell apartments faster by providing virtual viewings of every room in every apartment of off-plan residential projects. Using a next-gen immersive 3D visualisation platform and client's BIM data, Visuado allows buyers to virtually explore apartments in their own context, enabling smarter and safer decisions.

The Oslo-based company, leverages a unique, proprietary technology and workflow, including gaming-based tech with AI integration. This technology facilitates virtual viewings of all apartments in a project, offering accurate views from all windows with and without furniture, photorealistic representations based on location map data, sun simulation for every apartment, and high-resolution images for marketing and sales purposes. Visuado’s technology for creating unique visualisations for multiple properties offers a more cost-effective solution than high-end CGIs for various apartment types.

Lars Gunnar Tronaas, CEO of Visuado, told That's Business: "We're looking forward to a strong partnership with Engage Works and are proud they chose Visuado's ground-breaking technology for virtual viewings to be an option in their wide portfolio of offerings towards real estate developers in the UK and the rest of the world."

Visuado virtual viewings are now fully integrated into Engage Works’s Foundation sales acceleration platform for real estate, via the browser so users can seamlessly navigate from standard marketing content within Foundation to a Visuado virtual viewing. Foundation enables immersive and feature-rich marketing presentations for property marketing suites.

"This partnership with Visuado adds a new dimension to the Flux Innovation Lounge, showcasing the practical applications of cutting-edge technology in the real estate industry. With Visuado's expertise in immersive 3D virtual tours, visitors to Flux can experience firsthand how technology is transforming the property development landscape." says Steve Blyth, Founder and Group CEO of Engage Works.

Visuado's innovative approach addresses the challenges potential property buyers face, who may feel insecure when presented with only a 2D floor plan—while making their life's largest investment. Virtual viewings have proven to keep customers on websites 10 times longer, and case studies show up to a 50% faster pace of sales when using Visuado's virtual viewing platform.

Flux Innovation Lounge, the brainchild of Engage Works, situated in London Design District, is a groundbreaking hybrid collaboration space, where the intersection of ideas and technology transforms the way people think, offering a unique blend of physical and virtual experiences, encouraging business innovation through curated technology, engaging events, and immersive experiences. With the addition of Visuado and further cutting-edge technology partners being announced over the next few months, Flux remains at the forefront of business innovation.

Flux Innovation Lounge is available for hire for in-person events, hybrid events, collaboration workshops, and client sessions utilising the latest technology. For booking information, contact Richard Ward at richard.ward@engageworks.com.

Engage Works, with a history of creating bespoke immersive experiences for global clients, invites interested parties to explore the possibilities at Flux Innovation Lounge and witness firsthand how technology can elevate communication, collaboration, and innovation.

For further information about Flux Innovation Lounge and Engage Works, visit www.engageworks.com/flux.

The Art of Crafting a Compelling Elevator Pitch

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, the ability to make a lasting impression in a short amount of time is a crucial skill. 

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur looking for investors, a job seeker trying to stand out in a crowded market, or simply someone who wants to share their passion and ideas effectively, the elevator pitch is a powerful tool in your communication arsenal. 

This concise and persuasive pitch is named after the time it takes to ride an elevator, usually about 30 seconds to two minutes. Mastering the art of crafting a compelling elevator pitch can open doors, create opportunities, and set you on a path to success.

What Is an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch is a brief, memorable, and persuasive speech that conveys who you are, what you do, and what you can offer in a short span of time. It's a high-impact communication tool which is designed to grab your audience's attention, make them curious, and leave them with a lasting, positive,  impression. Whether you're presenting yourself, your business, a product, or an idea, the elevator pitch is the key to getting your foot in the door.

Why Are Elevator Pitches Important?

First Impressions Matter: In most cases, you only have one chance to make a great first impression. An effective elevator pitch can set the tone for further communication and open doors to meaningful conversations and opportunities.

Efficient Communication: In a world filled with information overload, a well-crafted pitch allows you to quickly and concisely convey your message, saving both your time and your listener's time.

Networking: Whether you're at a conference, a job fair, or a social event, you're likely to meet people whose interest can be piqued by a compelling elevator pitch. It's your ticket to making new connections.

Sales and Funding: Entrepreneurs seeking investors and sales professionals aiming to win clients must be able to articulate the value of their product or service within seconds. An engaging pitch can make the difference between a potential sale or investment and a missed opportunity.

How to Craft a Compelling Elevator Pitch

Know Your Audience: Tailor your pitch to your audience. Consider what's most relevant and compelling to them. A pitch for a potential investor will differ from one for a potential employer.

Start with a Hook: Begin your pitch with a captivating statement or a question that grabs your audience's attention. Your hook should spark curiosity and make them want to learn more.

Keep It Concise: Your elevator pitch should be brief and to the point. Aim for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Avoid jargon and keep it simple and easy to understand.

Explain Who You Are: Introduce yourself, but focus on your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. Your goal is to establish credibility and trust.

Define the Problem: Explain the problem or challenge that your product or service addresses. Clearly articulate the pain point to create a sense of urgency.

Present the Solution: Highlight what you or your offering brings to the table. How does it solve the problem? What are the unique selling points?

Share Results or Benefits: Describe the benefits or results of your solution. Paint a picture of the positive outcomes or impact.

End with a Call to Action: Close your pitch with a clear call to action. What do you want your audience to do next? Whether it's scheduling a meeting, providing contact information, or asking for a business card, make your next steps explicit.

Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your elevator pitch until it becomes second nature. Practice in front of a mirror, with friends, or even record yourself. The more you practice, the more confident and natural you'll sound.

Be Genuine and Enthusiastic: Authenticity is key. Your passion and enthusiasm for what you're pitching will be contagious. Show your audience that you genuinely believe in what you're saying.

Adapt and Iterate: Your elevator pitch is not set in stone. Be open to feedback and adapt it as needed based on the responses you receive and your evolving goals.

Examples of Elevator Pitches:

Job Seeker: "Hi, I'm [Your Name]. I'm a digital marketing professional with five years of experience in increasing online engagement and driving sales. I'm passionate about creating data-driven strategies to help businesses grow. Can I tell you more about my recent project where I boosted a company's online revenue by 30% in just six months?"

Entrepreneur: "Hello, I'm [Your Name], and I've developed a ground-breaking AI-powered fitness app that personalizes workouts for users based on their goals and preferences. We've already attracted 10,000 users in just three months and have the potential to revolutionize the fitness industry. I'm looking for investors to join us on this exciting journey."

In conclusion, crafting a compelling elevator pitch is an essential skill for anyone looking to make a strong impression and create opportunities in a short amount of time. By following the steps outlined above and practicing consistently, you can develop a pitch that grabs attention, communicates your value, and leaves a memorable mark on your audience. Whether you're at a networking event, a job interview, or a pitch meeting, the elevator pitch is your key to success in the art of communication.

(Image courtesy of Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay)

The Pros and Cons of Franchising Your Business

Franchising has become a popular and effective way for businesses to expand and reach new markets. It offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to replicate their successful business model and brand while allowing franchisees to own and operate their own business with a proven concept.

But, like any business strategy, franchising has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of franchising your business to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Franchising Your Business

Rapid Expansion

One of the most significant advantages of franchising is the ability to grow your business quickly. When you franchise your business, you can leverage the financial resources and efforts of individual franchisees to open new locations. This rapid expansion can help you capture new markets and increase your brand's visibility.

Increased Revenue

Franchisees pay upfront fees, ongoing royalties, and sometimes marketing contributions to the franchisor. This revenue stream can be a significant source of income for your business, allowing you to diversify your revenue streams and improve your financial stability.

Local Expertise

Franchisees are often local entrepreneurs who have a deep understanding of their communities. They can adapt your business model to local tastes and preferences, helping you connect with customers on a more personal level.

Brand Loyalty

As your franchise network grows, so does your brand's presence. The more recognizable your brand becomes, the more loyal customers you are likely to attract. Customers tend to trust established and recognizable brands, which can result in increased sales and customer retention.

Shared Responsibility

Franchisees share in the responsibilities of operating their locations. This means they are responsible for day-to-day management, hiring, and training employees, and maintaining the business. This shared responsibility can reduce the burden on the franchisor and allow them to focus on strategic growth and development.

Cons of Franchising Your Business

Loss of Control

When you franchise your business, you must relinquish a certain degree of control over each franchise location. While you can set guidelines and standards, you may not have complete control over day-to-day operations. This can be challenging for business owners who are used to having full control.

Upfront Costs

Franchising your business comes with initial costs, including legal fees for creating franchise agreements, training programs, and support for franchisees, and marketing efforts to attract potential franchisees. These expenses can be significant and may take time to recoup.

Quality Control

Maintaining consistency in the quality of products and services across all franchise locations can be challenging. Ensuring that franchisees adhere to your standards and meet customer expectations is an ongoing task. Inconsistent quality can harm your brand's reputation.

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Franchising is subject to numerous legal regulations and requirements, both at the federal and state levels. Navigating these regulations and ensuring compliance can be time-consuming and complex.

Franchisee Relationship Management

Managing the relationship with your franchisees is critical for the success of your franchise network. Communication, support, and conflict resolution become essential, and maintaining positive relationships with franchisees can be demanding.

Franchising can be a powerful growth strategy for your business, offering the potential for rapid expansion and increased revenue. However, it also comes with challenges, such as relinquishing some control, upfront costs, and the need for robust quality control and legal compliance. 

Ultimately, the decision to franchise your business should be based on careful consideration of your business model, goals, and resources. If done correctly, franchising can be a mutually beneficial arrangement that can lead to long-term success and profitability for both franchisor and franchisees.

(Image courtesy of John Hain from Pixabay)

Navigating the Challenges of Remote Work

Remote work has become an increasingly prevalent trend in the modern workplace. Despite what some more traditional and hidebound managers might think.

Thanks to advancements in technology, it's now possible for people to work from anywhere in the world. 

While remote work offers numerous benefits, such as flexibility and reduced commuting stress, it also presents its fair share of challenges. In this blog post, we'll explore these challenges and offer practical solutions for navigating them effectively.

Isolation and Loneliness

One of the most common challenges faced by remote workers is the feeling of isolation and loneliness. When you work from home, you miss out on the social interactions that naturally occur in a traditional office setting. To combat this, consider:

Regular Video Calls: Schedule video meetings with colleagues and friends to maintain a sense of connection.

Join Online Communities: Participate in online forums, Slack channels, or social media groups related to your industry to engage with like-minded individuals.

Coworking Spaces: Consider using a coworking space, which can provide a sense of community and structure.

Work-Life Balance

Remote work often blurs the line between work and personal life. It can be challenging to switch off when your office is just a few steps away. To maintain a healthy work-life balance:

Set Boundaries: Establish clear working hours and stick to them as closely as possible. Avoid working beyond your designated hours whenever you can.

Create a Dedicated Workspace: Designate a specific area in your home for work, which can help mentally separate work from leisure.

Use Time Management Tools: Tools like time tracking apps and the Pomodoro technique can help you stay productive within set time frames.

Distractions at Home

Home environments are filled with distractions that can impede productivity. Here's how to minimize them:

Eliminate Distractions: Identify common distractions in your home and take steps to reduce or minimise them. This might mean putting your phone on silent, using website blockers, or creating a quiet work environment.

Prioritise Tasks: Start your day by identifying your most important tasks, and focus on completing those first. This can help you accomplish critical work before distractions creep in.

Communicate with Family and Housemates: If you share your home with others, communicate your work hours and ask for their support in minimising disruptions.

Communication Challenges

Effective communication is vital in remote work settings, and it can be challenging when you're not physically present with your team. To address this issue:

Use Collaboration Tools: Embrace a variety of collaboration tools like Slack, Trello, Microsoft Teams or Google Groups to facilitate seamless communication with your team.

Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings or status updates with your colleagues to stay in the loop and address any issues promptly.

Overcommunicate: When working remotely, it's better to overcommunicate than undercommunicate. Share progress, ask questions, and be proactive in your interactions.

Technology Issues

Technology hiccups can disrupt your workflow and be a major source of frustration. To mitigate this:

Invest in Reliable Equipment: Ensure you have a stable internet connection and invest in a reliable computer and other necessary tech.

Backup Plans: Always have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties. Know how to troubleshoot common issues or have an alternative means of completing tasks.

Tech Support: Familiarise yourself with your company's IT support system, and know who to contact in case of technical issues.

Remote work is here to stay, and while it offers numerous advantages, it comes with its set of challenges. By addressing issues like isolation, work-life balance, distractions, communication, and technology problems, you can navigate these challenges effectively and make remote work a productive and satisfying experience. Remember that everyone's situation is unique, so be flexible and adapt strategies to suit your individual needs and preferences.

Adapting to Industry Disruptions and Trends: Thriving in a Shifting Landscape

In today's ever-evolving business landscape, adapting to industry disruptions and trends has become a necessity for long-term success. Industries are constantly being reshaped by technological advancements, economic shifts, and changing consumer preferences. 

To remain competitive and resilient, businesses must not only embrace change but also proactively adapt to these disruptions and trends. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of adaptation and provide insights into how businesses can effectively navigate this dynamic terrain.

The Nature of Industry Disruptions and Trends

Industry disruptions and trends are often driven by a multitude of factors, including technological innovation, regulatory changes, and shifts in consumer behaviour. Here are a few key categories in which disruptions and trends can manifest:

Technological Advancements: The rapid pace of technological development is perhaps the most significant driver of industry disruption. Innovations such as artificial intelligence, automation, and blockchain have the potential to revolutionise traditional business models and practices. Who, for example, could have foreseen the marketing revolution brought about by influencers, for example?

Economic Shifts: Economic recessions, globalisation, and changes in market dynamics can dramatically affect industries. Businesses must be prepared to adapt to economic fluctuations and changing market conditions.

Consumer Preferences: As consumer preferences evolve, industries must respond by offering products and services that align with these new demands. Sustainability, ethical practices, and personalized experiences are just a few examples of shifting consumer priorities.

Regulatory Changes: Government policies and regulations can also disrupt industries. For instance, changes in environmental regulations can impact the energy sector, while new data privacy laws can affect the technology and marketing industries.

The Importance of Adaptation

Adaptation is not merely a survival strategy; it is essential for thriving in a dynamic business environment. Here's why it's absolutely crucial:

Staying Competitive: Businesses that fail to adapt to industry disruptions and trends risk falling behind their more agile competitors. Adapting allows you to maintain or gain a competitive edge.

Seizing Opportunities: Industry disruptions and trends often present new opportunities. By embracing change, you position your business to capitalise on these openings and potentially lead in emerging markets.

Enhancing Resilience: Adaptation makes your business more resilient to external shocks. When you are prepared for change, you are better equipped to weather economic downturns, unforeseen challenges, and global crises.

Strategies for Adapting to Industry Disruptions and Trends

Now that we understand the significance of adaptation, let's explore some strategies for effectively navigating industry disruptions and trends:

Continuous Learning: Encourage a culture of continuous learning within your organisation. Stay informed about emerging technologies, market shifts, and changing consumer behaviour. Invest in training and development to keep your workforce updated and adaptable.

Embrace Innovation: Be open to innovation and experimentation. Invest in research and development to create innovative products or services that cater to changing market needs. Partner with start-ups and leverage their disruptive potential.

Agile Business Models: Adopt agile business models that allow for quick pivots when necessary. Agile methodologies, like Scrum and Kanban, can help your organisation adapt to changing circumstances and remain responsive to customer demands.

Data-Driven Decision-Making: Utilise data analytics to make informed decisions. Collect and analyse data on consumer behaviour, market trends, and performance metrics to identify opportunities and areas for improvement.

Collaborate and Network: Engage with industry peers, experts, and organisations that can provide valuable insights and collaboration opportunities. Networking can help you stay attuned to industry trends and potential disruptions.

Scenario Planning: Develop contingency plans for different scenarios, including disruptive events. Being prepared for a range of possibilities can minimise the impact of unforeseen challenges.

Adapting to industry disruptions and trends is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that is critical for business sustainability and growth. By understanding the nature of these disruptions, recognising their importance, and implementing effective strategies, businesses can thrive in a constantly changing landscape. 

Embrace adaptation as a means to not only survive but to excel in the face of uncertainty. Stay flexible, open to change, and always ready to innovate, and your business will be well-prepared to navigate the evolving industry terrain successfully.

(Image courtesy of Gerd Altmann from Pixabay)

London-based nowmedical re-opens its incredibly successful work experience programme: New 2023 intake coming soon!

nowmedical Limited, the UK’s leading provider of housing medical advice, are about to re-launch their previously successful work experience programme, giving local school/college students an incredible real-life learning opportunity.

Closed during the Covid pandemic, the re-opening of this scheme is the final return to normality for this major service provider.

Founder and CEO Dr John Keen states: "We couldn't be happier to open our doors to some of our finest local youngsters again. As a company we gain so much from their enthusiasm and input, and we're truly delighted that we will be welcoming the first batch of successful applicants back soon."

This excellent opportunity for outstanding students to experience a medical company and working GPs medical practice first-hand consists of an intensive one week course, and is particularly aimed at those students considering a career in medicine or an allied profession.

Dr Keen adds: "From previous years' intakes, we have had at least five of our students go on to become fully qualified Doctors, and we're really looking forwards to adding to that number."

https://www.nowmedical.co.uk

Keynote 2023: myWorld announces future innovations in the world of shopping

myWorld Benefit Programme, continues to focus on ground-breaking shopping technologies. 

During this year’s Keynote, which recently took place in Slovenia, the company gave an outlook on the innovations that will make the shopping experience even more attractive for shoppers and partners in the near future, in the e-commerce sector plus in-store.

AI-based shopping service assistants, payment via e-wallet and an “everything app” for retail, these are some of the buzzwords around which everything currently revolves in the development department of myWorld. The objective is clearly defined: State-of-the-art technologies should make it easier than ever before for customers all over the world to save money on their daily purchases. At the same time, the aim is to further increase the added value for participating partners.

“We have already taken giant steps in this direction over the past year. The popular ‘Scan & Go’ feature in the myWorld App, for example, makes customer transactions much easier for everyone involved. 

"Also, we have expanded the product range of our affiliate partners on myworld.com to 100 million products by now, so our customers can start their shopping adventure directly on our website or in the app. But that was just the beginning. We're about to implement the next wave of innovative shopping technologies,” explains myWorld Co-Owner Sharif Omar.

E-wallet – live Cashback for myWorld shoppers

What is already very popular in Asia is still in its infancy in Europe: payment by mobile phone via e-wallet. “Around 70% of our Asian customers already pay with their electronic wallets. Now we want to introduce this simple payment method step by step for our European customers as well,” explains Sharif Omar. 

For myWorld partners, this step means they receive their customers’ money in real time and incur around 90% fewer transaction fees. The big advantage for the shoppers themselves: They will also receive their Cashback in real time and can use it immediately to continue with their shopping. 

Radovan Vitosevic, CEO of myWorld International AG, is enthusiastic about this near-future development: “For our European branches, this will be a milestone that will take the shopping experience for our customers to a new level.” The first test phase is planned to start by the end of the year.

“Everything app” – the revolutionary solution for SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises make up the large majority of myWorld partners. myWorld is therefore making great efforts to simplify the day-to-day business of its SME partners and help them to be more successful. 

The company is currently working with a cooperation partner to develop an “everything app” and a corresponding hardware solution. “The app will cover all necessary business functions,” explains Sharif Omar. “In the foreseeable future, our partners will be able to use it not only to process payments, for example with e-wallet, credit or debit card, but also to operate their loyalty programme or set up advertising measures – and all that with just one app.”

Chatbots & Co - the smart shopping service assistants of tomorrow

Great innovations can also be expected in the future in the area of AI-supported shopping service assistants. The potential go-live of the first chatbot is expected to take place in December, on two continents, in order to subject this technology to an extensive practical test in several countries and in different languages. 

The chatbot will be able to support myWorld customers in all aspects of the Benefit Program – from explaining individual benefits to searching for nearby partners. The improved myWorld Plug-In for desktop browsers, which uses AI support to help customers consistently find the best deals, is a step in the same direction.

“This year, we have integrated more new technologies than ever before,” states Sharif Omar. “We are thus paving the way for the myWorld Benefit Program of the future and the further expansion goals of the international group of companies.”

Interested parties can find the full myWorld Keynote on the company’s YouTube channel.

Read more at myworld.com.

REPX and Visa sign global agreement to implement REPX business model targeting sports clubs and celebrities

REPX has signed an agreement with Visa to launch their card programme. Customers with REPX and their UK and international co-brand partnerships in sports, fashion, media and commercial services will be able to use their cards wherever the VISA logo is accepted.

The Reputation Exchange PLC (REPX) and Visa, one of the world leaders in digital payments, have signed a global card agreement. This step will help REPX implement its business model and accelerate its strategic activity, and will better enable it to build business relationships in new territories around the world and develop digital banking solutions tailored to football and sports fans, as well as brands the fintech is working with to create innovative payment products.

This places REPX in a significant position to accelerate the development and penetration of its products through technology solutions such as the introduction of Visa Direct, which helps transform the movement of money worldwide, including remittances. REPX will also be able to add to its product portfolio the Visa Analytics Platform (VAP), a sophisticated mechanism for understanding spending behaviour and profiling fans and followers more intimately.

This exciting relationship between REPX and Visa will continue to develop bringing new, innovative, engaging payment experiences to fans around the world.

REPX is a fintech, revolutionising traditional banking by combining technology and the passion of billions of fans worldwide with social media. REPX allows sports teams, celebrities, influencers, brands and iconic cities to innovatively connect with fanbases through exclusive co-branded prepaid cards, debit cards, and digital products.

REPX began the launch of its innovative products in mid-2022 with the Italian PAYFAN AC Milan card - on the occasion of the latter's victory in the Italian league, with what was recognised by industry insiders as the best ever launch for a prepaid card in Italy - and the PAYFAN Torino FC card. Soon, REPX will continue (with a new product fully tested and ready for launch) with the historic Scottish team Glasgow Rangers, not to mention numerous other brands in sport, motorsport, fashion and various celebrities from music and entertainment. REPX has also developed an Esports platform.

"Thanks to this strategic global agreement with Visa”, comments Antonio Matta, Executive Director of REPX, "our innovative fintech will be better equipped to provide its core catchment area, i.e. football and sports fans (not to mention its other brand partners), with a range of payment solutions in all territories of the world”.

“We're delighted to be working with REPX and look forward to helping them to deliver digital payment solutions to brands, football and sports fans around the world”, adds Luigi Marandola, Global Head of Co-Brands, Visa.

www.therepx.com

Leveraging Influencer Marketing for Your Business

In today's fast-moving and digitally connected world, traditional marketing strategies often fall short when it comes to capturing the attention of the consumers of today. 

This is where influencer marketing comes into play. Leveraging influencer marketing can be a game-changer for your business, helping you reach a wider audience, build trust, and drive sales. In this blog post, we'll explore what influencer marketing is, why it's effective, and how you can harness its power to benefit your business.

What Is Influencer Marketing?

Influencer marketing is a marketing strategy that involves partnering with individuals who have a dedicated and engaged following on social media platforms or in specific niches. These individuals, known as influencers, can be celebrities, industry experts, or simply passionate content creators who have gained the trust of their audience. By collaborating with influencers, businesses can tap into their influence to promote products or services authentically.

The Power of Trust and Authenticity

One of the primary reasons influencer marketing is so effective is the trust factor. Audiences often perceive influencers as relatable and trustworthy figures. They connect with their content on a personal level, which means recommendations from influencers can carry more weight than traditional advertising.

Influencers can help you convey your brand's message authentically. Since they've already established a unique voice and style, their endorsements don't feel forced or inauthentic. This authentic promotion can be a breath of fresh air for consumers who are tired of traditional, pushy advertising.

Expanding Your Reach

Influencer marketing also helps you reach a broader and often more relevant audience. Each influencer has their own niche or target demographic. By collaborating with influencers whose followers align with your target market, you can ensure that your message is reaching the right people.

Moreover, influencers typically have substantial followings across various social media platforms, which can significantly extend your brand's reach. For example, if you partner with a YouTuber, their video could be shared on YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter, giving your campaign multiple touchpoints and greater visibility.

Building Brand Credibility

Influencers can vouch for your brand's quality and value. When they endorse your products or services, it sends a signal to their audience that your brand is trustworthy. This association can significantly enhance your brand's credibility.

Additionally, influencer marketing can provide you with valuable user-generated content. The content created by influencers can be repurposed for your social media, website, or other marketing materials, further solidifying your brand's image and authenticity.

How to Leverage Influencer Marketing

To harness the potential of influencer marketing for your business, follow these steps:

Set Clear Objectives: Define your goals for the influencer marketing campaign. Do you want to increase brand awareness, drive sales, or launch a new product? Your objectives will guide your strategy.

Identify the Right Influencers: Look for influencers whose audience aligns with your target market. Check their engagement rates, authenticity, and reputation.

Build Genuine Relationships: Establish authentic relationships with the influencers you partner with. This ensures that their endorsements come across as sincere.

Collaborate on Creative Content: Work closely with influencers to create content that resonates with their audience while showcasing your products or services.

Track and Measure Results: Use analytics tools to track the performance of your influencer campaigns. Monitor key performance indicators such as engagement, clicks, and conversions.

Comply with Regulations: Familiarise yourself with the legal and ethical aspects of influencer marketing. Ensure that your campaigns comply with relevant regulations and guidelines.

In conclusion, influencer marketing is a powerful tool that can help your business grow and thrive in the digital age. It offers a unique way to connect with your target audience, build trust, and elevate your brand's credibility. By carefully selecting the right influencers and developing authentic partnerships, you can unlock the full potential of influencer marketing to achieve your business objectives. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to leverage this influential trend for your business's success.

(Image courtesy of Olive Sadiq from Pixabay)

The Impact of Customer Loyalty Programmes: Building Stronger Bonds and Boosting Business

In an increasingly competitive business landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to retain their existing customers while also attracting new ones. 

One effective strategy that has gained immense popularity is the implementation of customer loyalty programmes. 

These programmes have proven to be instrumental in not only retaining customer base but also driving revenue growth and fostering brand loyalty. In this blog post, we will delve into the profound impact of customer loyalty programs on businesses and customers alike.

Understanding Customer Loyalty Programmes

Customer loyalty programmes are designed to reward and incentivise customers for their continued patronage. These programmes come in various forms, including point-based systems, tiered rewards, and exclusive member benefits. 

By offering customers exclusive deals, discounts, or rewards, companies aim to make their patrons feel valued and appreciated. Consequently, these initiatives can significantly impact various aspects of a business.

The Impact on Customer Loyalty

Enhanced Customer Retention: The most apparent impact of customer loyalty programmes is the increased customer retention. Customers tend to stick with a business that offers them tangible rewards and incentives. These programmes make it more challenging for customers to switch to competitors.

Increased Customer Spend: Loyalty programmes encourage customers to spend more, either to reach a reward threshold or to maximise the benefits of their loyalty status. As a result, businesses often see an increase in the average transaction value.

Emotional Connection: Customers who participate in loyalty programmes feel a stronger emotional connection to the brand. They perceive the company as one that values their patronage and, in return, they are more likely to become brand advocates.

The Impact on Businesses

Revenue Growth: Loyalty programmes can directly contribute to revenue growth. By increasing customer retention and encouraging repeat purchases, businesses enjoy a more consistent and predictable revenue stream.

Customer Data and Insights: These programmes provide valuable customer data that can be used to personalise marketing efforts. Companies can gain insights into customer preferences and behaviour, allowing for more effective marketing strategies.

Cost Savings: Acquiring new customers is often more expensive than retaining existing ones. Loyalty programmes, in this sense, can result in cost savings as they reduce the need for aggressive marketing campaigns targeting new audiences.

Competitive Advantage: Businesses with well-structured loyalty programmes often gain a competitive advantage. Customers are more likely to choose a brand that offers them rewards and benefits, even if it means paying slightly more than a competitor.

Brand Loyalty: Effective customer loyalty programmes foster brand loyalty, which can lead to a strong base of brand advocates who promote the company organically, attracting new customers.

Challenges and Best Practices

While customer loyalty programmes offer numerous benefits, there are challenges to overcome. Some customers may see these programmes as intrusive or manipulative, and managing the costs of rewards can be a concern. To mitigate these issues, businesses should focus on:

Transparency: Be transparent about how the programme works and what customers can expect. This helps build trust.

Relevance: Tailor the rewards to customer preferences and behaviour. Offering rewards that align with customer interests will be more effective.

Ease of Use: Make the programme easy to understand and use. Cumbersome or confusing loyalty programmes can drive customers away.

Customer loyalty programmes have a profound impact on both customers and businesses. They foster stronger bonds between customers and brands, leading to increased customer retention, higher spending, and brand advocacy.

For businesses, these programmes contribute to revenue growth, cost savings, and a significant competitive advantage. However, it's essential to implement them thoughtfully, keeping the customer experience in mind and adapting to changing customer expectations and preferences. When done right, customer loyalty programmes are a win-win for both businesses and their valued customers.

(Image courtesy of Javier Rodriguez from Pixabay)

Designer Aquaponics is the Aquarium of the Future

Illuminated fish tanks delight from home to restaurant, hotel to cruise ship. Here is your opportunity with the modern equivalent – designer aquaponics. You can support, license, make or sell the aquarium of the future. 

With this, you can educate and otherwise support the vital green revolution. Your customer's school, reception area or other space can display fish and edible plants growing inter-dependently in the same circulated water system. This designer aquarium of the future is luxury decor, a talking point and a magnet for people. Zhar Research is promoting the new venture.

If you are interested in getting involved, you can see one in operation. The residents on display are freshwater crayfish, crabs, shrimps and fish only for display as they feed the greens and herbs you can eat, these purifying the water. Plants grow faster because they have access to nutrients 24 hours a day and optimal lighting. For example, the aquaponic system speeds up the growth of lettuce from two months to one month. This designer form comes with essential know-how and support.

Such aquaponics systems exist in industry but not as the educational, entertaining items of quality furniture presented in this new invention with important associated know-how. They do not harbor soil pests, therefore no pesticides are necessary and water use is near-zero compared to conventional agriculture grabbing most of the world’s clean water. Teach how we can avoid herbicides and artificial fertilise.

No need to fret over complex gardening techniques or soil management. Simply plug it in, set it up, and let the magic unfold. Thanks to its aquaponic system combining plants and fish in one symbiotic system, you will witness a captivating cycle of life as nature’s harmony takes centrestage.

The mesmerising LED lighting, mimicking the gentle hues of sunlight, bathes your plants in a warm, inviting glow. It is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating the perfect environment for growth. The adjustable lighting settings ensure your plants receive the ideal amount of light, encouraging photosynthesis and stimulating their lush greenery. The display fish tank can be at top or bottom, the cabinet size and aesthetics in various designer styles.

Contact us here if you wish to know more about this exciting business opportunity. Sales of individual items are not currently on offer, so you can be in at the beginning.

https://www.zharresearch.com

Over 700 homes set to benefit from reduced energy bills

Residents at the Reed Mere estate in Immingham and the Willows estate in Grimsby are set to benefit from lower energy bills and more comfortable homes thanks to external wall insulation (EWI) funded by the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) and Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP).

The project will be managed and delivered by E.ON, with Gateshead-based Thrift Energy, an experienced installer of energy saving retrofit improvements.

Installations begin on the first homes in Immingham this month as phase 1 begins, with up to 291 Reed Mere estate properties scheduled for completion by the end of March next year, 2024. The EWI improvements for up to 733 properties across both estates will be completed by the end of March 2025.

The project marks a commitment from LHP to help tackle fuel poverty amongst residents by reducing the amount of heating they require. The EWI installation will help to prevent heat loss through the walls of each property, driving down bills for residents. 

All properties will also receive ventilation upgrades, further increasing the comfort of the home whilst reducing risks associated with poor air quality, damp, and mould growth. Besides providing a warmer and more energy efficient living environment, the improvements will also reduce carbon emissions, and all work will be carried out by Thrift Energy’s experienced teams while residents remain able to stay in their homes.

Daniel Wyer, Corporate Head of Asset Management at Lincolnshire Housing Partnership explains: “The SHDF was made available to improve social housing properties currently below Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating ‘C’ to bring homes up to that standard. 

"We were successful in securing a share of the up to £800 million allocated by the government to support the installation of energy performance measures in social homes in England and are now working with E.ON and Thrift Energy to improve up to 733 local homes.

“The improvements will not only help reduce bills for our residents; they'll also help enhance health and wellbeing by enabling residents to use their heating when they need to and enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home. The project will also provide aesthetic improvements, giving the estates a refreshed look.”

The Reed Mere and Willows projects are two of over 30 sites E.ON will deliver for social housing clients across the UK until 2025 supporting SHDF programmes, as E.ON continues to be market leader for green funding delivery with a demonstrable track record successful programme delivery.

Sarah Farmer, Director of Residential Solutions at E.ON UK, said: “We are committed to helping people reduce their energy use and costs while also taking action to tackle the climate crisis. Insulation is fundamental in helping improve the fabric of our nation’s homes, enabling people to stay warm and well whilst also helping bring down energy use and bills. This project has been a real team effort and we're excited to begin the process of transforming hundreds of local homes.”

EWI involves wrapping each property’s exterior walls in a layer of insulation, which improves thermal performance by increasing airtightness and reducing heat loss. Working on behalf of E.ON, Thrift Energy, a finalist in the National Energy Efficiency Awards Insulation & Fabric Installer category with more than a decade’s experience of EWI projects, has an experienced team ready to start the project.

Thrift Energy’s Commercial Director, Josh Raffo comments: “We have installed EWI improvements for 588 properties in the past year alone, many of them on behalf of E.ON, as part of the first phase of SHDF, but this is by far the largest project we have been involved with.

“Our teams will work closely with LHP and E.ON to ensure that residents are fully aware of the programme and the timetable for work on their property, as well as providing information on EWI, how it is installed and what it will mean for their home. We will provide a complete service, including all scaffolding, installation and finishes, ensuring residents benefit from a home that is warmer, cheaper to run and looks great.”

In the past two years, E.ON has successfully delivered over 80 energy improvement projects, installing over 11,000 energy efficiency measures into homes, including nine successful phase 1 SHDF programmes. According to figures from the Energy Saving Trust, this activity has led to a reduction of more than 12,000 tonnes of CO2 for households nationally, supporting the UK Net Zero target on decarbonising homes.

Ethical Sourcing: A Guide for Businesses to Ensure Responsible Supply Chains

In today's interconnected world, ethical sourcing has become a significant concern for businesses of all sizes. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the origins of the products they buy, and they demand transparency and responsible sourcing.

 Ensuring an ethical supply chain not only aligns with corporate social responsibility but also fosters consumer trust and can positively impact a company's reputation. In this blog post, we will explore how businesses can ethically source supplies and create a more sustainable and responsible supply chain.

Establish Ethical Supply Chain Policies

To begin the journey towards ethical sourcing, businesses should develop and clearly communicate their supply chain policies. These policies should address a range of issues, including labour practices, environmental responsibility, and ethical sourcing of raw materials. To do this effectively, a company should engage all stakeholders, from employees and suppliers to consumers and investors.

Supplier Audits and Compliance

Regular supplier audits are crucial to verify that the suppliers adhere to the ethical standards set forth in your supply chain policies. This involves conducting on-site inspections, reviewing their labour practices, and ensuring they meet environmental standards. Consider working with independent third-party auditors who can provide impartial assessments.

Fair Labour Practices

To ethically source supplies, businesses should ensure fair labour practices within their supply chain. This involves paying fair wages, providing safe working conditions, and respecting workers' rights. It's essential to identify suppliers who share these values and prioritize partnerships with those who do.

Traceability and Transparency

Transparency is a cornerstone of ethical sourcing. Companies should strive to trace the origins of their supplies and products. Utilise technology and data systems to track materials from the source to the finished product. This allows consumers to make informed choices and hold businesses accountable for their sourcing practices.

Sustainable Materials and Eco-Friendly Practices

Incorporate sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices into your supply chain. Consider sourcing materials that are renewable, recycled, or produced with minimal environmental impact. Reducing waste and using energy-efficient production processes can also contribute to ethical sourcing.

Support Local Communities

Many businesses can make a positive impact by supporting local communities through their supply chain. Investing in local economies and communities can create social benefits, including job opportunities and improved infrastructure. This demonstrates a commitment to ethical sourcing on a broader scale.

Collaboration with Ethical Suppliers

When sourcing supplies, collaborate with suppliers who share your commitment to ethical practices. Foster long-term relationships and work together to improve supply chain sustainability. Open communication and a shared dedication to ethical values can lead to meaningful change.

Continuous Improvement

Ethical sourcing is an ongoing commitment. Regularly review your supply chain policies, audit processes, and supplier relationships to identify areas for improvement. Set goals and targets for increasing ethical practices within your supply chain and track progress over time.

Consumer Education

Educating consumers about your ethical sourcing efforts can create a more informed and responsible customer base. Share your supply chain stories, successes, and challenges with your audience to build trust and encourage them to make ethically informed choices.

Ethical sourcing is not just a responsibility; it's a competitive advantage in today's business landscape. Companies that prioritize ethical supply chains are better positioned to meet consumer demands, enhance their brand reputation, and contribute to a more sustainable future. 

By following the steps outlined in this guide and committing to continuous improvement, businesses can navigate the complexities of supply chain ethics and make a positive impact on the world while ensuring the longevity and success of their enterprises.

(Image courtesy of 905513 from Pixabay)

The Power of Content Marketing for Businesses: A Strategy for Success

In today's digital age, where consumers are constantly bombarded with information and advertisements, businesses need to find innovative ways to capture their target audience's attention. 

Content marketing has emerged as a powerful tool that not only engages and educates consumers but also builds trust and drives profitable actions. In this blog post, we will explore the profound impact of content marketing on businesses, illustrating how it can be a game-changer in the modern marketing landscape.

Building Brand Awareness

One of the primary objectives of content marketing is to create and enhance brand awareness. By consistently producing high-quality content that speaks to your audience's interests and needs, you can increase your brand's visibility. Whether it's through blog posts, social media updates, videos, or podcasts, content marketing allows businesses to showcase their expertise, share their values, and distinguish themselves from the competition.

Establishing Credibility and Trust

Credibility and trust are essential elements of a successful business. Content marketing can help you build authority in your industry by demonstrating your knowledge and expertise. When consumers perceive you as a valuable source of information, they are more likely to trust your brand. As they say, "Content is king," and the more you can offer valuable, informative, and engaging content, the more trust you'll earn from your audience.

Generating Leads

Content marketing is a great way to generate leads for your business. By creating content that addresses specific problems or answers common questions within your industry, you can attract potential customers who are actively seeking information. This content can then be used as a gateway to collect contact information and nurture leads through the sales funnel.

Improving SEO and Search Engine Ranking

Search engine optimization (SEO) plays a significant role in attracting organic traffic to your website. Content marketing can help improve your search engine ranking by providing fresh, relevant, and keyword-rich content that search engines love. By consistently publishing valuable content, you increase your chances of appearing in top search results, driving more organic traffic to your site.

Engaging and Retaining Customers

Content marketing isn't merely about attracting new customers; it's also about keeping your existing ones engaged and satisfied. Regularly providing your audience with interesting and useful content can help maintain their interest and loyalty. Engaged customers are more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend your brand to other people.

Cost-Effective Marketing

Compared to traditional advertising methods, content marketing can be incredibly cost-effective. While it requires an investment of time and effort, the long-term benefits often outweigh the costs. Once you've built a library of valuable content, it continues to work for your business, drawing in leads and customers without ongoing expenses.

Adaptable to Various Formats

Content marketing is versatile and can take various forms, from blog posts and infographics to videos and webinars. This adaptability allows you to reach a broader audience and cater to different learning preferences and media consumption habits.

Tracking and Analytics

Modern content marketing tools provide a wealth of data and analytics that can help you assess the effectiveness of your content. You can track engagement metrics, conversion rates, and other key performance indicators to refine your strategy continually.

In today's highly competitive marketplace, content marketing is a powerful tool that can propel your business to success. By building brand awareness, establishing trust, generating leads, improving SEO, engaging and retaining customers, and doing so cost-effectively, content marketing is a strategy that can transform the way you connect with your audience. If you haven't already, it's time to harness the power of content marketing for your business and take your marketing efforts to the next level. Start creating valuable, relevant, and engaging content today to reap the benefits tomorrow.

(Image courtesy of Diggity Marketing from Pixabay)

10 Effective Sales Techniques for Small Businesses

Sales are the lifeblood of any small business. In a competitive market, knowing how to sell your products or services effectively can make or break your company. 

While there's no one-size-fits-all formula for sales success, there are proven techniques that can help small businesses thrive. In this blog post, we'll explore 10 effective sales techniques tailored specifically for small businesses.

Understand Your Target Audience

Before you can sell effectively, you need to know your customers inside and out. Conduct market research to understand their needs, preferences, and pain points. Create detailed buyer personas to tailor your sales approach to their specific wants and needs.

Build Relationships

Small businesses often excel at building personal relationships with customers. Leverage this advantage by providing exceptional customer service and personalised interactions. Make an effort to remember customer names and preferences, which can leave a lasting impression.

Effective Communication

Good communication is at the heart of effective sales. Listen actively to your customers to uncover their needs and concerns. Tailor your pitch and messaging to address these issues. Be concise and clear in your communication, ensuring your customers understand the value you offer.

Value Proposition

Clearly articulate the unique value your product or service provides. Explain how it solves a problem, fulfils a need, or improves their lives. Focus on benefits, not just features.

Upselling and Cross-selling

Maximise your sales by offering complementary products or services that enhance the customer's purchase. Upselling encourages customers to buy a higher-end version of a product, while cross-selling suggests related items. These techniques can boost your average transaction value.

Sales Funnel Optimisation

Develop a well-defined sales funnel that guides customers through the buying process, from awareness to conversion. Monitor the funnel's performance and continually optimise it for better results.

Sales Training

Invest in sales training for your team. Equip them with the knowledge and skills to handle objections, negotiate effectively, and close deals. Regular training and coaching sessions can lead to improved sales performance.

Online Presence

In today's digital age, an online presence is absolutely vital. Ensure your website is user-friendly and mobile-responsive. Use social media and email marketing to stay connected with your audience and generate leads.

Testimonials and Social Proof

Positive reviews and testimonials can build trust with potential customers. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or on third-party platforms. Highlight your successes to boost your credibility.

Follow Up

After the sale, don't forget about your customers. Stay in touch with them, provide exceptional post-sale service, and ask for referrals. Happy customers can become your best advocates.

Sales success is an ongoing process that involves understanding your customers, building relationships, and constantly improving your approach. By implementing these effective sales techniques for small businesses, you can increase revenue, foster customer loyalty, and create a foundation for long-term growth. Remember that the key to successful selling lies in providing value and exceptional service to your customers.

(Image courtesy of Kevin King (Chandana Perera) from Pixabay)

Jasmine, 6, saved from disability grant disaster by homelift company

Jasmine and Andy

Jasmine Blueman, 6, from Stockport, has complex disabilities and was facing huge access and well-being challenges at home until Stiltz Homelifts stepped in to solve her family's Disabled Facilities Grant nightmare.

Jasmine, a full-time wheelchair user, is cared for 24/7 by her parents Andy and Tara. Andy, an airfield operations manager at Manchester Airport, applied for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) over two years ago. A DFG can be provided by a local authority to help with the cost of home accessibility adaptations. Andy and Tara chose to use this support to fund a lift as the stairs were a massive obstacle in their lives. For Jasmine to access her bedroom and a bathroom, she had to be carried up and down the stairs which became unsafe. They desperately needed a solution.

“Jasmine loves being with family, playing with sensory toys and getting out into the garden” says Andy. “She has Global Motor Delay, which is similar to cerebral palsy, and is non-verbal and non-mobile. Plus like any child she’s having growth spurts and is getting heavier. As a result, my wife was really struggling to lift Jasmine. At one stage they both fell on the stairs when I was away working nights. It was such a frightening experience and a real wake up call for Tara and I. Thankfully neither of them was badly hurt but we knew then, this simply couldn’t be allowed to happen again.”

The Blueman’s ordered a through-floor lift from the local council’s primary supplier. On the day of installation, which was time critical due to a wider house conversion issue, the lift manufacturer just failed to turn up without any warning. This compromised the whole build and was the ‘final straw’ for the entire family. The stress they had experienced battling to get this lift funded and installed, coupled with Jasmine’s ill health, meant they were at breaking point. They turned to Stiltz to save the day.

Andy continues: “We made contact with Stiltz and one of their Trusted Assessors came out. Alastair couldn’t do enough to help. He agreed with us the homelift should go where we originally wanted it, in the kitchen leading straight upstairs into Jasmine’s bedroom. Alastair worked closely with us on the DFG application always following up and pushing it along because he knew our situation was desperate. He made sure there was constant dialogue with all parties.”

The family did meet with some resistance from their local council about specifying a Stiltz Homelift but they remained persistence and eventually approval was given. Stiltz managed its own builders, electricians and installers to fit the homelift without any issues. This meant within a matter of weeks the Bluemans had full access around their home and could provide greater care and safety for their daughter. Their nightmare had finally come to an end.

Andy concludes: “Our homelift is amazing, it’s made a huge difference to our lives. Jasmine can now come down from her room straight into the kitchen with easy access to the lounge, her playroom and outside. All at the push of a button on one of the remote controls. As Jasmine grows we're going to be even more reliant on the homelift. It’s not just invaluable for us but eventually when we need to call on respite carers, it's something they will also need to ensure safe manual handling. Most importantly though, Jasmine loves riding in the lift and looking at the lights.”

“And just to add, if you are thinking about a DFG you may need to push. There are restrictions but we’ve shown you can overcome these. Don’t assume the supplier they recommend is the best option for you. I know Stiltz is increasingly preferred by lots of councils now, but every authority has a duty to provide what’s best for children with disabilities. In our case it was a Stiltz Homelift for sure.”

FACTFILE: Award-winning multi-national Stiltz is a specialist manufacturer of pioneering through-floor homelifts. Its life-enhancing 2-person Duo Homelift and 3-person, wheelchair-accessible Trio Homelift, deliver a superior alternative to stair lifts with world-class design that adds value. Stiltz recognises its duty of care to individuals living with restricted mobility through client-centric assessment – 100% focused on positive outcomes for all. Solutions that synergise adaptability, performance and safety, all with contemporary and compelling styling, provide the answer to enhanced well-being and inclusion in the home.

https://www.stiltz.co.uk/

M&S resets Early Careers programme in search for its next generation of retail leaders

Retailer has quadrupled the number of places available for 2024 intake - reflecting M&S’ commitment to finding the best retail talent  

Open to school-leavers and graduates, candidates could be running a store in just two years 

School leavers have the opportunity to complete a degree-equivalent apprenticeship  

M&S has relaunched its early careers programmes as applications open for its 2024 intake. 

Each programme has been reshaped and simplified to focus even more on the store experience, with each aligned to three key business areas: Retail through the Retail Leaders Programme¹, Food through the Food Business Programme², and Clothing & Home through the Clothing & Home Business Programme³. 

The scale of 2024’s Retail Leaders Programme is significantly bigger – the retailer wants to attract 114 people which will comprise 38 school leavers and 76 graduates (compared to 29 graduates in 2023). The four-fold increase reflects M&S’ focus on developing talent who want early accountability, can bring fresh perspectives, and build the skills to become future leaders in the business.  

School-leavers and grads on the Retail Leaders programme will be hands on from day one, building the skills and experience needed to manage a store. By the end of the two (or three)* year programme, they will be managing a store of their own - the equivalent of running a business with a multi-million-pound turnover.   

Six months after starting the Retail Leaders programme, school leavers will have the opportunity to complete a Level 6, degree equivalent, apprenticeship. The retailer appreciates that further study isn’t for everyone, so the apprenticeship qualification is completely optional.  

With a passion for finding the best talent from a broad range of people – school leavers to graduates – M&S’ CEO, Stuart Machin, had a personal interest in shaping the schemes. He drew upon his own experience - where a job at a supermarket as a teenager set him on the path to becoming the Chief Executive of a FTSE 100 company, to make sure the programmes equipped talent with the skills they need to lead a M&S store of the future.  

Read this blog from Stuart, our CEO, to find out more: A job in retail? It’s not just any job… | Marks & Spencer (marksandspencer.com) 

Find out more about the programmes: M&S Careers (marksandspencer.com) 

How to Create Compelling Product Descriptions: A Guide for E-Commerce Success

In the world of e-commerce, a compelling product description can be the difference between a sale and a missed opportunity. 

Your product description is like a virtual salesperson, tasked with convincing potential customers that your product is not just worth their money, but also an essential addition to their lives. 

To create product descriptions that truly resonate with your audience and drive conversions, follow these essential guidelines.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your target audience is the first and most crucial step in creating compelling product descriptions. Consider factors such as demographics, preferences, pain points, and motivations. Tailor your language, tone, and content to speak directly to the needs and desires of your potential customers. A product description that resonates with a fashion-forward millennial will differ significantly from one designed for a practical and budget-conscious parent.

Highlight the Benefits

When writing a product description, focus on the benefits your product offers. Explain how it solves a problem, fulfils a desire, or improves the customer's life. Don't just list features; translate them into tangible advantages. For example, if you're selling a smartphone, instead of merely stating, "Quad-core processor," say, "Experience lightning-fast performance for seamless multitasking and gaming."

Use Persuasive Language

Utilize persuasive and compelling language to entice potential buyers. Employ power words that evoke emotion, such as "luxurious," "exclusive," "effortless," or "revolutionary." These words make the reader feel like they're making an extraordinary choice.

Keep It Concise

While it's essential to highlight the benefits, it's equally important to keep your product descriptions concise. In today's fast-paced digital world, most consumers skim through content. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings to make it easy for readers to absorb the key information quickly.

Storytelling Matters

People love stories, and incorporating storytelling elements into your product descriptions can be highly effective. Share the origin of the product, its development journey, or a customer success story. Stories create an emotional connection and give your product a unique identity.

Professional Imagery

High-quality images and multimedia content are just as crucial as the text. Include multiple images of the product from various angles, showing it in use or context. A picture truly is worth a thousand words, and it can complement your descriptions effectively.

Address Concerns

Anticipate and address common questions or concerns that potential customers might have. This builds trust and reduces hesitation. For instance, if you're selling a delicate item, discuss its durability or offer a satisfaction guarantee.

SEO Optimisation

Optimize your product descriptions for search engines. Use relevant keywords naturally throughout the content to improve your product's visibility in search results. Research and choose the right keywords that your target audience is likely to use.

Social Proof

Include customer reviews and ratings within your product descriptions. Social proof adds authenticity and credibility, making potential buyers more comfortable with their purchase decision. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews to bolster your e-commerce success.

A/B Testing

Don't be afraid to experiment with different product descriptions. Conduct A/B testing to see which versions perform best. Analyse metrics such as click-through rates, conversion rates, and time spent on the product page to refine your approach continuously.

Creating compelling product descriptions is an art and a science. By understanding your audience, focusing on benefits, using persuasive language, and incorporating storytelling, you can create descriptions that captivate and convert. Remember that the e-commerce landscape is dynamic, so stay updated on industry trends and continually refine your product descriptions to drive sales and build brand loyalty.

(Image courtesy of Preis_King from Pixabay)

The Megatrend to Energy Storage Without Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are not immune from the “S curve”. Their sales are expected to level off within 20 years. One reason is the arrival of better batteries but a bigger impact is coming from failure of any battery to meet certain major new needs for energy storage. This is described in the new 441-page Zhar Research report, “Battery-free electrical energy storage and storage elimination milliWh-GWh: markets, technologies 2024-2044”. 225 companies are mentioned in this context. See 31 forecast lines 2024-2044.

Future electricity grids increasingly escape from batteries

The largest new, emerging requirement comes from most of the world’s electricity grids adopting much more wind and solar power. This usually delivers the lowest cost of electricity but such power is very intermittent and it cannot follow changes in demand. A grid with only 20% wind/ solar can manage with batteries because storing the electricity for a few hours covers most of its requirements. As grids rise to around 50% wind/ solar, it becomes important to compensate solar dead at night and wind dead for similar times. That is why we already see some grids already adopting 12-hour storage where lithium-ion batteries are uneconomic. They leak energy too much and are too expensive so other batteries are used. Also used for this is storage without batteries such as pumping water up mountains (“pumped hydro”) or compressing gases then turning them back into electricity later, when needed.

Grids using mostly wind and solar power are arriving

However, many grids now plan 70-100% wind/ solar power and that makes sense only with average storage one or two months and preferably some storage from summer to winter. Winter power from solar panels is typically only one fifth of that in summer. Wind can be dead for months. No battery can achieve one month or more of storage economically. Storage without batteries, including extra options such as lifting weights or making liquid air are beginning to be used. Making hydrogen (then back to electricity) is also proposed for this. Battery-free technology replaces batteries because the needs change to where batteries are useless. Other benefits of the battery-free storage include life of up to 100 years and typically no toxic or scarce materials. Indeed, most of the non-battery options can provide both short-term and long-term grid storage.

Huge increase in needs for pulsed electricity

Another change in demand increasingly leaves batteries as useless. It is the many new forms of engineering that require pulses of power in and out. Examples are the new military laser pistols and large stationary laser cannon also planned on ships. There are even new weapons that shoot out electromagnetic energy that disables all electronics on an aircraft. Within 20 years we may also see the first thermonuclear electricity generation based on such pulsed storage. Meanwhile, Evans fit-and-forget, tantalum capacitor-supercapacitors are already used by most Tier One defense and aerospace contractors. Applications include laser targeting, communications modules, controls, cockpit displays, phased array radars and control of firing of weapons – all growth markets.

The medical sector uses electrical pulses in MRI body scanners but now many more medical devices with similar needs for pulses are arriving, including robotic treatments. The trends to fit-and-forget devices and very fast charging also make us escape from batteries. 

An example is robot vehicles in factories. The new hydrogen high-speed trains in China cannot provide the fast acceleration and capture of braking energy with batteries. In all these cases supercapacitors or their variants are chosen. The supercapacitor variants are mostly intermediate in technology between conventional capacitors and supercapacitors or between supercapacitors and batteries.

Here comes a $230 billion market for you

The current market for battery alternatives mainly consists of pumped hydro for grids at tens of billions of dollars yearly and supercapacitors at the billion-dollar level. That is only a beginning. Indeed, Zhar Research finds that the battery-free (storage without batteries) market will exceed $230 billion in 2044 with growth rate accelerating throughout the coming years. It reveals your enormous opportunities to sell materials and hardware into this new business. 

In addition the report has coverage of the move to eliminate electrical storage altogether. For example, a later stage of the planned 6G Communications may power devices from the signal beam. However, most of the Zhar Research report “Battery-free electrical energy storage and storage elimination milliWh-GWh: markets, technologies 2024-2044” analyses the huge opportunity for alternatives to batteries.

https://www.zharresearch.com