That's Technology: "Everyone's Gone to the Moon?" Harlette Capital La...

That's Technology: "Everyone's Gone to the Moon?" Harlette Capital La...: The race to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon depends on more than rockets and spacecraft.  Reliable, continuous power will b...

New Report Says Heritage Should Be Treated as Essential Infrastructure to Boost Local Economies

Britain's historic buildings and heritage attractions should be viewed as essential infrastructure rather than simply cultural assets if communities are to unlock long-term economic growth, according to a new report from independent think tank Localis.

The report, What's Past is Prologue – Unlocking the Value of Heritage for Local Economies, argues heritage has a far greater role to play in economic development than is often recognised. 

It calls for a major shift in government policy so that historic environments are treated as drivers of investment, employment, tourism and community wellbeing.

Using the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and Stratford-upon-Avon as its principal case study, the report highlights the significant contribution the heritage sector already makes to the UK economy. Heritage generates an estimated £15.3 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) each year, outperforming the domestic sports sector, while also contributing around £29 billion annually in wellbeing benefits for local communities.

However, Localis warns a range of structural challenges is preventing heritage from reaching its full potential. These include a shortage of specialist conservation officers within local authorities, declining traditional building and restoration skills, and a complicated funding system that can make heritage projects difficult to deliver.

The report follows recent findings from the Culture, Heritage and Sport Select Committee, which suggested that refurbishing vacant and under-used historic buildings could provide around 670,000 homes, almost half of the Government's 1.5 million homebuilding target.

To help unlock the sector's full value, Localis recommends introducing heritage-specific guidance within HM Treasury's Green Book so that cultural assets are properly valued in public investment decisions. It also calls for heritage strategies to be embedded within regional growth plans, procurement reforms that strengthen local retrofit businesses, and greater opportunities for communities to take ownership of heritage assets.

Callin McLinden, Head of Research at Localis, said the report was designed to recognise the complexity of heritage policy while producing practical recommendations that support heritage-led economic growth.

Rachael North, Chief Executive of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, welcomed the report, saying heritage should be recognised as enabling infrastructure capable of driving economic growth while strengthening wellbeing, civic pride and social prosperity.

Tony Perks, Deputy Chief Executive of Stratford-on-Avon District Council, added that Stratford's internationally recognised heritage demonstrates how well-managed historic assets can attract visitors, create employment, improve wellbeing and foster a strong sense of pride in place.

The report makes the case that investing in heritage is not simply about preserving the past, it's about creating stronger local economies and more prosperous communities for the future.

Please download the entire report here https://www.localis.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Localis-Whats-Past-is-Prologue-A5-Report-July2026-PRF01a.pdf

Young Cumbrian Entrepreneurs Showcase Innovative Businesses Through Positive Enterprise Programme

Young entrepreneurs from Furness and West Cumbria have celebrated the success of the Positive Enterprise programme, turning creative business ideas into thriving ventures with mentoring and funding support.

A new generation of young entrepreneurs in Cumbria is proving that great business ideas can come from anywhere, with ventures ranging from AI-powered technology and sustainable furniture restoration to authentic Nigerian cuisine and creative fashion design.

Fifteen aspiring business owners aged between 14 and 25 from Furness and West Cumbria celebrated the success of the Positive Enterprise programme this week after spending the past six months developing their businesses with expert mentoring, practical training and financial support.

Run by Cumbria Community Foundation in partnership with the Centre for Leadership Performance (CforLP), the programme was designed to help young people transform promising ideas into viable businesses. Each participant received a £1,000 start-up grant earlier this year, enabling them to launch or expand ventures as diverse as pet photography, mobile make-up services, fragrances inspired by the scents of Cumbria, gutter cleaning, AI virtual assistants and specialist food businesses.

The programme culminated in celebration events at the Carnegie Theatre in Workington and The Bridge in Barrow, where participants presented their business journeys, sharing both their achievements and the challenges they had overcome.

In West Cumbria, 21-year-old Maria Ferreira from Workington impressed judges with her business, Ferrocious Furniture, which restores and reupholsters unwanted furniture. She received an additional £1,000 investment, which she plans to use to run workshops teaching others how to upcycle household items instead of throwing them away.

Maria said she hopes to inspire more people to see creative careers as a genuine possibility, particularly in areas where opportunities can feel limited. Her mentor, Rachel Stewart, praised her determination and described the mentoring experience as a rewarding team effort.

Runner-up Holly Chamberlain, 20, from Cockermouth, received £500 for her sewing and knitting pattern business, Un Petit Rêve, where she designs clothing, creates knitting patterns and hosts workshops encouraging others to develop crafting skills.

Meanwhile, the programme expanded into Furness for the first time this year. Barrow entrepreneur Travis Drake secured the top award of £1,000 for Buzz Trackers, an innovative device designed to help people locate frequently misplaced items such as television remote controls. Travis credited both the funding and the guidance of his mentor, James Batchelor, with helping him refine his business ideas.

The Furness runner-up was 18-year-old Rukky Jokoh, whose business Rukky's Naija Hub brings authentic Nigerian food to local customers. She said the programme had enabled her to transform a personal passion into a sustainable business.

The Positive Enterprise initiative is now in its fourth year in West Cumbria and made its Furness debut in 2026. Funding has come from organisations including Sellafield Ltd, the Printers Inc Social Mobility Fund, Thomas Graham & Sons Ltd, private donors and supporters committed to improving opportunities for young people across the region.

Beyond financial backing, participants benefited from experienced business mentors, leadership training and practical workshops covering essential entrepreneurial skills including negotiation, time management and business planning.

Organisers believe the programme continues to grow in both quality and impact, helping ambitious young people gain the confidence, networks and experience needed to build successful futures.

Applications for the 2027 Positive Enterprise programme will open later this year, with opportunities available for both aspiring entrepreneurs and volunteer business mentors.

For readers interested in taking part or volunteering as a mentor, more information about the Positive Enterprise programme is available from Cumbria Community Foundation. https://www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/positiveenterprise

Volunteer pilots provide vital wildfire early warning during UK's hot weather

As the UK continues to experience prolonged hot, dry conditions, volunteer pilots are playing an increasingly valuable role in helping protect communities, businesses and the countryside from the growing threat of wildfires.

Civil Air Support, a UK charity that provides aerial assistance to emergency services and partner organisations, has revealed how its volunteer pilots have recently helped identify potential wildfire incidents before they had the chance to escalate.

Although most of the charity's flights are carried out in response to planned requests, pilots are encouraged to remain alert during every journey for anything that could pose a risk to people, wildlife, infrastructure or the environment.

That vigilance has already paid dividends during the current spell of exceptionally dry weather.

Within the past week, pilots flying separate missions over Hampshire and Cornwall spotted suspicious fires burning in remote rural areas. 

From a safe distance, they monitored the situations, photographed the incidents to assist emergency responders and immediately reported what they had seen to Air Traffic Control. The information was then relayed directly to the relevant Fire and Rescue Services, enabling crews to respond quickly.

With vegetation across much of Britain tinder dry, small ignition sources such as discarded cigarettes, disposable barbecues and fireworks can rapidly develop into serious wildfires. Fires that begin in isolated woodland, heathland or moorland may go unnoticed for some time, allowing them to spread before anyone on the ground raises the alarm.

Rapid detection can make a huge difference. The earlier firefighters are alerted, the greater the chance of containing a blaze before it threatens homes, businesses, transport infrastructure, wildlife habitats and agricultural land. Early intervention can also reduce the significant financial and operational resources needed to tackle large-scale fires.

Civil Air Support currently has around 120 active volunteer pilots operating across the UK. Working within strict operating procedures and supported by a central coordination team, the charity ensures that any observations are reported safely, consistently and through the correct official channels.

A spokesperson for Civil Air Support told That's Business: "We're not replacing the emergency services. Our role is simply to be another pair of eyes in the sky. When our pilots happen to spot something unusual during a flight, they know exactly how to report it through the proper channels. If that helps firefighters arrive even a few minutes earlier, it can make a significant difference to the outcome."

The organisation emphasises that its pilots never fly low to investigate incidents or interfere with emergency operations, instead maintaining safe separation while complying fully with Civil Aviation Authority regulations and Air Traffic Control instructions.

Anyone who spots signs of a wildfire should call 999 immediately and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service. During periods of prolonged dry weather, the public is also urged to avoid lighting fires or disposable barbecues in the countryside and to dispose of cigarettes safely.

https://www.civilairsupport.com

Birmingham's Crimson expands AI apprenticeship opportunities as West Midlands tech sector continues to grow

As artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies reshape the workplace, one Birmingham-based company is making sure the next generation of digital professionals has the opportunity to build the skills employers need.

Digital transformation consultancy Crimson has opened applications for the latest intake of its apprenticeship Academy, offering aspiring technology specialists the chance to launch careers in AI, automation and data engineering while working on real-world projects.

Since the Academy was launched in 2019, Crimson has supported 33 apprentices through structured training programmes that combine recognised qualifications with practical experience. Many of those apprentices have gone on to secure consulting, technical and client-facing roles within the business, demonstrating how apprenticeships can provide an effective alternative to the traditional university route.

The timing is significant. The West Midlands has become one of the UK's leading technology regions, boasting the fastest-growing and highest concentration of digital companies outside London. As organisations continue investing in artificial intelligence, automation and advanced data solutions, demand for skilled professionals is increasing rapidly.

Crimson's Academy has been designed to help meet that demand by giving apprentices the opportunity to work alongside experienced Microsoft specialists on AI-powered transformation projects for both public and private sector clients. Participants gain valuable hands-on experience while developing the technical and professional skills needed for long-term careers in one of Britain's fastest-growing industries.

Cat Halstead, Change and Transformation Director at Crimson, believes investing in local talent has never been more important. 

Cat told That's Business: "The technology sector is evolving rapidly, particularly with the growth of AI and data-driven services, and we need to ensure people have opportunities to develop the skills required for these careers.

"Through the Crimson Academy, we're helping people gain practical experience, earn recognised qualifications and build successful careers in technology while contributing to meaningful transformation projects."

The Academy is currently recruiting for two apprenticeship pathways: Data Engineer Apprentice – Digital Native and AI Automation Apprentice – Digital Native. Both programmes are aimed at people taking their first steps into the technology sector, regardless of whether they have chosen not to attend university or are looking for a more practical route into employment.

Former apprentice Loren Thomas, who joined the Academy in 2020 as a Software Testing Apprentice, credits the programme with transforming both personal confidence and career prospects.

"My apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally," Loren said. "It opened doors, broadened my experience and gave me the confidence to pursue a career I'm passionate about."

With applications now open, Crimson hopes to attract talented people from across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands who are eager to play a part in the region's thriving digital economy. As businesses continue embracing AI and automation, initiatives like the Crimson Academy are helping ensure the workforce develops alongside the technology itself.

AI Licences Alone Won't Transform Your Business, Says New Consultancy

For many businesses, investing in artificial intelligence has started with buying AI-powered software licences. But a new consultancy believes that's only the beginning, warning that companies risk missing out on significant financial savings if they stop there.

Boxtree Consulting has launched with a clear message for UK businesses: simply purchasing AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot is not the same as having an AI strategy. 

According to the Birmingham-based consultancy, the biggest opportunities lie in transforming everyday business processes rather than simply improving individual productivity.

Founded by operational transformation specialist Max Pardo-Roques,(PICTURED) Boxtree combines Lean principles, originally developed through Toyota's renowned production system, with modern AI technology to identify repetitive manual tasks that can be automated. 

These include activities such as invoice processing, data entry, scheduling, compliance checks and other administrative work that quietly consumes thousands of staff hours each year.

The company argues that many organisations have embraced AI on the surface, using it to draft emails or improve marketing content, while leaving their most time-consuming and expensive workflows untouched.

Pardo-Roques believes this is where businesses are overlooking substantial savings.

He told That's Business that many chief executives, finance directors and operations leaders believe they have implemented AI because staff have access to AI assistants. In reality, he argues, true transformation only begins when organisations redesign the processes where most operational costs occur.

Recent research suggests many UK businesses still have some way to go. Analysis of Office for National Statistics data found that fewer than three in ten UK businesses employing under 50 people were using AI in 2025, compared with 44 per cent of organisations employing more than 250 staff. Meanwhile, the Government's AI Champion for Advanced Manufacturing has warned that many firms remain stuck in a "pilot trap", experimenting with AI without deploying it at scale.

Boxtree's approach is deliberately practical. Every client engagement begins with a Lean diagnostic that maps business processes and identifies waste in financial terms. Projects only move forward if they are expected to generate savings that exceed implementation costs during the first year.

The consultancy is confident enough in its approach to guarantee every project will be cost-neutral within its first year, with an overall target of delivering a five-to-one return on investment.

Rather than replacing existing software, Boxtree focuses on embedding AI into the systems businesses already use, reducing disruption while improving efficiency.

Serving organisations across manufacturing, logistics, professional services and other operations-intensive sectors, Boxtree believes the next stage of the UK's AI journey will not be driven by software licences alone, but by businesses willing to rethink how work gets done.

https://boxtreeconsulting.co.uk

RentDocs Launches All-in-One Compliance Platform for UK Landlords

RentDocs.co.uk has launched a cloud-based property management platform helping UK landlords manage compliance, tenancy agreements, documents and rent administration from one secure dashboard.

With major changes to rental legislation on the horizon, UK landlords are facing increasing pressure to keep up with compliance requirements while managing their day-to-day responsibilities. 

A new British software platform, RentDocs.co.uk, aims to make that task significantly easier by bringing every aspect of rental administration together in one secure, cloud-based system.

Launched this month, RentDocs has been designed specifically for the UK rental market and provides landlords with a single platform to manage tenancy documents, compliance, rent administration and tenant communications. 

As the Renters' Rights Act introduces new legal obligations across the private rented sector, the software offers a practical way for landlords to stay organised and compliant.

Rather than relying on multiple spreadsheets, document folders and separate applications, landlords can use RentDocs to oversee their entire portfolio from one central dashboard.

Among its key features is the ability to generate tenancy agreements that comply with current 2026 legislation. The platform also securely stores essential statutory documents, including Gas Safety Certificates, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs), while automatically reminding landlords when certificates are approaching their expiry dates.

RentDocs also allows landlords to create and distribute complete tenancy packs by email or SMS, ensuring tenants receive all the legally required documentation. Every document sent is recorded, creating a comprehensive audit trail that confirms both delivery and access—an increasingly important safeguard should disputes arise.

A live Property Health Score gives landlords an instant overview of the compliance status of each property, while integrated rent reminders help monitor payments and reduce overdue accounts.

According to founder C. Loui Yilmaz, the platform was developed in response to the growing administrative burden placed on landlords.

"Landlords are expected to comply with an increasing number of legal requirements while managing properties, tenants and documentation," he told That's Business. 

"Our aim was to build software that removes complexity. Instead of using multiple apps, spreadsheets and folders, landlords can manage everything from one secure platform."

The software has been built around UK legislation and is designed to evolve alongside future regulatory changes, helping landlords remain compliant as new rules are introduced.

Looking ahead, RentDocs plans to introduce additional features including AI-powered landlord assistance, electronic signatures, maintenance management tools, contractor portals and accounting integrations.

Available across England, Wales and Scotland, RentDocs supports the different tenancy agreement requirements that apply in each nation, making it a flexible solution for landlords managing portfolios of any size.

How to Run a Mini Beer Festival in Your Pub, Hotel or Bar

Discover how pubs, hotels and bars can organise a successful mini beer festival with guest ales, food pairings, brewery partnerships and smart promotion to boost sales.

For many pubs, hotels and bars, a beer festival conjures up images of marquees, dozens of casks, live bands and months of planning.

In reality, a successful beer festival can be much smaller, easier to organise and far more profitable than many licensees realise.

A well-planned mini beer festival can attract new customers, encourage repeat visits and generate additional food and drink sales, all without requiring a huge investment.

Why a mini beer festival works

Customers increasingly enjoy trying something different. While many drinkers have their favourite pint, they are often happy to sample limited edition ales, local craft beers, ciders or speciality lagers when given the opportunity.

By offering a carefully selected range of guest beers over a weekend or even a single evening, venues can create a genuine event that gives customers a reason to visit.

It also provides excellent opportunities to promote local breweries and support independent producers.

Keep it simple

Rather than attempting to offer 30 or 40 beers, consider stocking between six and twelve carefully chosen drinks.

These could include:

Local cask ales

Craft IPAs

Golden ales

Stouts and porters

Fruit beers

Premium lagers

Traditional ciders

Having a balanced selection ensures there is something for experienced beer enthusiasts as well as casual drinkers.

Work with breweries

Many independent breweries are keen to support local events.

They may be able to provide:

Branded glasses

Pump clips

Promotional materials

Tasting notes

Brewery representatives for meet-the-brewer sessions

Some breweries may even help promote the event through their own social media channels, increasing its reach.

Offer tasting flights

Not everyone wants to drink several full pints.

Serving tasting paddles or third-pint flights allows customers to sample several beers responsibly while increasing overall sales.

Providing tasting cards describing each beer's style, strength and flavour profile also enhances the customer experience.

Pair beer with food

One of the biggest opportunities is linking the festival with your kitchen.

Simple pairings might include:

Steak pie with a rich porter

Fish and chips with a golden ale

Burgers with an American IPA

Cheese boards matched with local bitters

Chocolate desserts paired with stouts

Food and drink pairings can significantly increase average spend per customer.

Create a festival atmosphere

A mini beer festival doesn't need expensive entertainment.

Consider:

Live acoustic music

Quiz nights

Brewery talks

Beer tasting sessions

Homebrew demonstrations

Charity raffles

These activities encourage customers to stay longer and create a memorable experience.

Promote early

Begin promoting the festival several weeks beforehand using:

Facebook and Instagram

Posters inside the venue

Local community groups

Email newsletters

Local newspapers and bloggers

Your own website

Regular updates introducing individual beers can build anticipation.

Encourage responsible drinking

Beer festivals should always promote sensible alcohol consumption.

Offer plenty of soft drinks, alcohol-free beers and food throughout the event. Ensure staff understand responsible retailing and provide information about public transport or local taxi services where appropriate.

Make it an annual event

If your first mini beer festival proves successful, consider making it a regular feature.

Seasonal festivals focusing on spring ales, summer craft beers, autumn harvest brews or winter stouts give customers something to look forward to each year while strengthening your venue's reputation.

The best beer festivals are not necessarily the biggest. With careful planning, good promotion and a welcoming atmosphere, even a modest event can become a highlight of the local calendar, attracting new customers, supporting local breweries and delivering a healthy boost to wet and food sales.

KeySIM Launches Flexible Pay-As-You-Go IoT SIM Pricing for UK Businesses

KeySIM has unveiled new pay-as-you-go IoT SIM pricing for UK businesses, offering multi-network connectivity, no minimum contracts and flexible data plans for connected devices across the UK and Europe.

UK-based IoT connectivity provider KeySIM has introduced a new pricing structure aimed at businesses deploying more than 100 Internet of Things (IoT) SIM cards, offering a flexible pay-as-you-go alternative to traditional connectivity contracts.

The new tariffs are designed to help organisations reduce unnecessary costs while providing reliable multi-network connectivity for everything from CCTV systems and industrial automation to environmental monitoring and remote networking.

Under the new commercial offering, UK businesses can access multi-network IoT SIM cards for a monthly rental of just £1.50 per SIM. Mobile data is charged at £0.0025 per megabyte on a true pay-as-you-go basis, ensuring customers only pay for the data they actually consume. 

Businesses requiring connectivity across both the UK and Europe can opt for KeySIM's UK and European service, priced at £3.25 per SIM per month, with European data charged at £0.008 per megabyte.

Unlike many traditional IoT connectivity packages, KeySIM imposes no minimum contract terms, allowing customers to cancel SIMs whenever required. UK voice calls and SMS messages are both charged at £0.05 per minute or message.

A key feature of the service is its multi-network capability. KeySIM's IoT SIM cards connect to all four major UK mobile networks, Vodafone, O2, EE and Three, helping businesses maintain connectivity by automatically selecting the strongest available signal.

The company says its unsteered SIM technology provides an important advantage over many conventional IoT SIMs, which often prioritise a preferred network and can experience unnecessary disconnections. For organisations that require greater control, customers also have the option to manually steer SIMs to a preferred network during planned maintenance, local outages or service disruptions.

KeySIM also offers optional fixed IP addresses, enabling secure remote access to CCTV installations, telemetry systems, industrial equipment, routers and other connected devices.

Founder Graham Robinson said the new pricing reflects the company's continued growth and commitment to transparent, technically robust IoT connectivity.

He told That's Business: "The launch of these new tariffs comes at an exciting time for KeySIM," he said. "The business now supports more than 500 customers and, during June 2026 alone, transited more than 10 million megabytes of data across our platform. These milestones reinforce our commitment to delivering transparent, flexible and technically robust IoT SIM connectivity for businesses throughout the UK and Europe."

The financial benefits of the model are already being realised by customers. Irish security specialist CSC Security Consultants switched from a pooled data arrangement to KeySIM in 2022 after discovering that around 27 per cent of the mobile data it had been purchasing was never actually used.

Managing Director Declan Cassin said the move had significantly reduced unnecessary expenditure while also delivering excellent technical support. He added that KeySIM successfully integrated the firm's CCTV connectivity into its RE Monitoring Centre, providing secure monitoring capabilities for its camera systems.

As businesses continue to expand their use of connected devices across multiple sectors, demand for flexible, usage-based connectivity is increasing rapidly. KeySIM's latest pricing is aimed squarely at organisations looking to scale their IoT deployments without being tied into long-term contracts or paying for unused data.

https://www.keysim.co.uk

That's Technology: Infinigate Appoints Kai Grunwitz as Chief Growth O...

That's Technology: Infinigate Appoints Kai Grunwitz as Chief Growth O...: The Infinigate Group has strengthened its executive leadership team with the appointment of Kai Grunwitz (PICTURED) as Chief Growth Officer ...

LendingCrowd Recognised Among Scotland's Fastest Growing Businesses

LendingCrowd has added another major accolade to its growing list of achievements after being named in the inaugural Sunday Times Scotland Fast 50, which celebrates the fastest growing businesses in Scotland.

The Edinburgh-based financial technology (fintech) lender earned its place alongside some of the country's most innovative companies after demonstrating exceptional growth over the past two years. To qualify for the list, businesses were required to achieve average annual revenue growth of at least 20%, before a judging panel selected the final 50 companies.

The recognition follows another milestone for LendingCrowd, which was recently named Scotland's fastest growing technology company in The Sunday Times 100 Tech 2026. Together, the awards underline the company's continued expansion as it strengthens its position in the UK's SME lending market.

Founder and Chief Executive Stuart Lunn welcomed the latest recognition, telling That's Buisiness: "This is a fantastic result for LendingCrowd as we continue on our mission to be the trusted source of affordable finance for SMEs across Britain."

LendingCrowd has built its reputation by providing straightforward, affordable finance to established small and medium-sized enterprises that can often struggle to secure funding through traditional high street banks. By combining modern financial technology with experienced credit decision-making, the company aims to make business borrowing faster, simpler and more accessible.

Since its launch in 2014, the lender has expanded significantly. Originally established as a peer-to-peer lending platform, LendingCrowd completed its transition to institutional funding in 2022. The move enabled the business to increase its lending capacity and support a greater number of growing companies across Britain.

Today, LendingCrowd offers business loans ranging from £75,000 to £500,000, with repayment terms of up to five years. Fixed interest rates and the flexibility to make early repayments or overpayments without penalties are designed to provide businesses with a more predictable and affordable alternative to short-term borrowing.

The company has now delivered more than £600 million in loans to British SMEs, highlighting both the scale of its operations and its long-term commitment to supporting business growth.

Recognition in the Sunday Times Scotland Fast 50 also builds on LendingCrowd's impressive track record in other industry rankings. 

The company has appeared several times in the annual Deloitte UK Technology Fast 50, most recently in 2025 when it was named Scotland's fastest growing technology business. 

It also secured 28th place in Deloitte's EMEA Technology Fast 500, ranking it among the fastest growing technology companies across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

For Britain's SMEs, the continued success of companies such as LendingCrowd demonstrates how fintech innovation is helping to broaden access to business finance while supporting economic growth across the UK.

https://www.lendingcrowd.com

Build Beyond Referrals: New Workshop Helps Businesses Create a Reliable Client Pipeline

For many consultants, coaches and professional service firms, referrals remain one of the most valuable ways to win new business.

A recommendation from a satisfied client often comes with built-in trust, making it easier to secure new work.

However, relying too heavily on referrals can also leave businesses vulnerable. 

When recommendations slow down, so can the sales pipeline.

A new one-day workshop from Maverrik aims to help expert-led businesses change that by providing a practical framework for generating new clients consistently, without abandoning the benefits of referrals.

The Build Beyond Referrals One-Day Intensive has been created for executive coaches, business coaches, boutique consultants and expert-led businesses across sectors including professional services, financial services and technology.

Rather than encouraging businesses to replace referrals, the programme focuses on building a structured client acquisition system that works alongside them, giving organisations greater control over future growth.

Dean Seddon, Founder of Maverrik and author of Get Growing, believes many businesses leave business development until it's too late.

He told That's Business: "Referrals are valuable, but they leave too much to chance. When referrals become the main route to new business, your pipeline can become vulnerable, and business development often only gets attention once things have already started to slow down."

He went on to tell us that the workshop is designed to give business owners a repeatable process for generating opportunities, helping them feel more confident about winning new work regardless of referral levels.

Unlike traditional seminars, the intensive is designed as a hands-on working session. Delegates spend the day developing their own client acquisition framework, leaving with practical tools that can be implemented immediately rather than simply taking away ideas and notes.

The workshop is built around three key areas:

Proposition: Identifying the right audience, refining messaging and creating compelling offers.

Pre-selling: Building credibility, trust and visibility before sales conversations begin.

Pipeline: Creating a repeatable process for generating leads, booking meetings, presenting offers and following up effectively.

Together, these elements aim to provide a sustainable approach to business development that reduces dependence on unpredictable referral activity.

The Build Beyond Referrals One-Day Intensive will be held at three UK locations during September 2026:

Bristol – Tuesday 22 September

London – Wednesday 23 September

Manchester – Thursday 24 September

Attendance is limited to just 25 delegates at each event, allowing participants to receive tailored guidance while working alongside fellow business owners facing similar growth challenges.

Dean Seddon brings over 14 years of experience in social selling and client acquisition. During that time he has trained over 150,000 professionals, worked with organisations including Microsoft, Salesforce and BT, and helped clients generate more than $100 million in new business revenue.

Standard and Premium attendance options are available, with the Premium package including additional implementation resources, AI coaching and a one-to-one strategy session to help businesses put their new client acquisition systems into practice.

To learn more or to book places please visit https://maverrik.io

Axians UK launches Enterprise Architecture as a Service to simplify digital transformation

Axians UK has launched Enterprise Architecture as a Service, helping organisations align business strategy with technology while reducing technical debt, improving security and lowering costs.

Many organisations invest heavily in digital transformation, only to find that ambitious boardroom strategies fail to translate into practical technology solutions. 

Axians UK believes it has the answer with the launch of its new Enterprise Architecture as a Service (EAaaS), a flexible consultancy offering designed to align business objectives with technical delivery without the cost of employing a full-time Enterprise Architect.

The London-based technology services provider says many businesses experience what it describes as a "boardroom vision gap". Senior leaders define the commercial goals, while technical teams independently develop solutions that can become overly complex, inconsistent and difficult to maintain.

EAaaS aims to close that gap by providing an architectural framework that connects business strategy with technology implementation, ensuring digital investments support long-term growth rather than creating fragmented systems.

Ian Parker, Enterprise Architect at Axians UK, explained to That's Business that organisations without a dedicated architectural approach often end up with disconnected technology estates.

He compared the situation to building a street where every house has different foundations and construction methods, making future maintenance unnecessarily difficult. By introducing common standards and governance, he said businesses can ensure that infrastructure remains consistent, scalable and easier to manage, regardless of whether operations span London, New York or Singapore.

The service is also designed with today's biggest technology challenges in mind. Rather than treating cybersecurity as an afterthought, Axians has adopted a Secure by Design approach that builds protection into infrastructure from the outset. Sustainability considerations are also incorporated into the architecture, helping organisations create technology environments that are efficient as well as resilient.

Dan Barton, Head of Consultancy at Axians UK, said businesses are operating in an increasingly complex digital landscape where cloud computing, artificial intelligence and hybrid working continue to reshape technology requirements.

He said establishing the right architectural foundations from the beginning enables organisations to embrace innovation while maintaining strong security and governance.

Another major advantage of the service is its potential to reduce technical debt. By eliminating duplicated tools, simplifying infrastructure and creating standardised designs, businesses can reduce operational costs while improving efficiency and making future technology projects easier to deliver.

Instead of hiring an expensive full-time Enterprise Architect, organisations can access specialist expertise on demand, allowing them to benefit from strategic guidance that scales alongside their business.

As digital transformation continues to accelerate, services such as EAaaS could prove increasingly valuable for organisations looking to build secure, efficient and future-ready technology foundations while keeping costs under control.

www.axians.com

www.axians.co.uk

Apprenticeships and Internships Gain Ground as Employers Prioritise Skills Over Degrees

New research reveals employers are increasingly valuing skills, internships and apprenticeships over degrees, with AI and in-person training reshaping early careers recruitment.

The latest research into early careers recruitment suggests that employers are placing less emphasis on academic qualifications alone and giving greater weight to practical skills, adaptability and real-world experience. 

For young people entering the jobs market, that could mean apprenticeships and internships are becoming more valuable than ever before.

According to the newly published 2026 Best Practice Early Careers Guide from TST, organisations are increasingly creating multiple routes into employment rather than relying solely on traditional graduate recruitment.

The report found that companies with well-developed internship-to-graduate programmes retain significantly more employees over the long term.

 After three years, 73% of graduates who came through strong internship pipelines were still with their employer, compared with 62% at organisations without similar programmes. 

Internships also attracted around 20% more applications than graduate schemes and an impressive 80% more than apprenticeship vacancies, highlighting the growing appeal of gaining workplace experience before committing to a permanent role.

The findings are based on recruitment and retention data from 30 global organisations employing more than 2.75 million people. They paint a picture of employers becoming increasingly interested in what candidates can demonstrate rather than simply what qualifications they hold.

Dr Khairunnisa Mohamedali, (PICTURED) Managing Director and Chief Innovation Officer at TST, believes businesses are looking for people who can adapt quickly to changing workplaces. She told That's Business that it is her argument that skills, attitude and potential are now sitting alongside formal qualifications when employers make recruitment decisions.

Supporting this trend, research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers suggests that 70% of employers now use skills-based hiring for entry-level positions, while nearly half of middle-skill jobs have removed formal degree requirements altogether.

The report also highlights another interesting development: the return of face-to-face learning. Organisations with the strongest long-term retention rates delivered almost two-thirds of their induction programmes in person, compared with just over a quarter among lower-performing employers. 

Building personal relationships, company culture and workplace confidence during those early weeks appears to have a lasting impact on employee loyalty.

Artificial intelligence is also reshaping graduate development. As AI increasingly takes over routine tasks that once helped new recruits gain confidence and experience, employers are placing even greater value on qualities such as curiosity, resilience, communication and a willingness to learn. Rather than replacing early careers programmes, AI is changing what successful development looks like.

For businesses competing for tomorrow's workforce, the message is clear. Investing in apprenticeships, internships, meaningful in-person training and skills-based recruitment could prove to be one of the smartest talent strategies of the decade.

https://www.wearetst.com/insight/insight-article.html?slug=best-practice-early-careers-guide-2026

Humanscale Launches M/Class Ergonomic Monitor Arms for Modern Workspaces

Humanscale has launched its redesigned M/Class monitor arm range, combining ergonomic comfort, award-winning design and sustainability to help businesses create healthier, more productive workspaces.

As businesses continue to invest in employee wellbeing and more flexible office environments, ergonomic design has become far more than a workplace luxury. 

A well-designed workstation can improve comfort, reduce strain and help employees stay productive throughout the day.

With that in mind, Humanscale has launched its new M/Class monitor arm range, bringing together refined engineering, minimalist design and enhanced performance for modern workplaces.

The latest M/Class range has been completely redesigned internally to support a much wider variety of monitor sizes and weights while maintaining the effortless movement that Humanscale products are known for. Rather than relying on complicated adjustment mechanisms, the monitor arms use carefully engineered physics-based movement, allowing users to reposition their screens with a simple touch.

The goal is straightforward: encourage healthier posture by enabling workers to position their displays exactly where they need them. This helps reduce neck, shoulder and back strain caused by poorly positioned monitors, while also encouraging natural movement throughout the working day.

Beyond the ergonomic benefits, the M/Class range also helps businesses maximise valuable desk space. By lifting monitors off the desktop, users gain a cleaner, less cluttered working environment that can improve organisation and concentration.

A standout feature is Humanscale's patented M/Connect® Split Dock Technology. This cleverly transforms the monitor arm into a workstation connectivity hub, providing convenient access to USB, charging and audio ports while concealing static cables beneath the desk. The result is a tidier workspace that's easier for employees to use and simpler for IT teams to manage.

The updated range also introduces several practical improvements, including significantly increased weight capacity, enhanced cable management, compatibility with keyboard applications and a stylish new all-white finish. The strengthened internal construction features redesigned linkages, reinforced castings and a new mechanical spring system to improve durability and long-term reliability.

The design has already received international recognition, winning a prestigious Red Dot Award for its combination of elegant aesthetics and user-centred functionality. The award highlights the growing importance of products that adapt to people rather than forcing people to adapt to technology.

Sustainability remains central to Humanscale's philosophy. The company is the only major commercial furniture manufacturer in the United States to achieve B Corp certification and continues to pursue climate-positive manufacturing and the development of products that make use of recycled and upcycled materials, including ocean plastics.

With operations in over 55 countries, Humanscale continues to demonstrate that thoughtful workplace design can deliver benefits for businesses, employees and the environment alike. As organisations rethink office spaces for the future, ergonomic innovations such as the new M/Class range show that even everyday office equipment can play an important role in improving wellbeing, efficiency and long-term sustainability.

https://uk.humanscale.com

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Billboard Advertising Made Affordable: Loud! OOH Launches with Transparent Pricing

New agency Loud! OOH is challenging outdoor advertising norms by publishing transparent billboard prices, helping SMEs discover that outdoor advertising is more affordable than they might think.

For many small businesses, billboard advertising has always seemed like something reserved for big brands with equally big marketing budgets. 

A new independent agency is aiming to change that perception by doing something refreshingly simple, publishing its prices for everyone to see.

Leeds and London-based Loud! OOH has launched with a bold campaign in the heart of Leeds that demonstrates just how affordable outdoor advertising can be. 

Two adjacent 48-sheet billboards on York Street tell the whole story. One states that another agency quoted £650 for the site, while the second reveals Loud! OOH is offering exactly the same billboard for £325.

There are no hidden conditions, no small print and no promotional gimmicks. The campaign is designed to prove that outdoor advertising can be accessible to businesses of every size.

Founder Jamie Roberts, who has spent two decades working in the advertising industry, told That's Business that the traditional process of obtaining billboard prices often discourages potential customers before they even receive a quote.

Business owners typically have to complete enquiry forms, wait for follow-up calls, discuss their requirements and then wait days or even weeks before learning the actual cost. According to Roberts, many lose interest long before they receive a figure.

Loud! OOH has taken a different approach by publishing transparent pricing for billboards, digital outdoor screens, bus advertising, London Underground campaigns and other formats directly on its website. This allows businesses to research costs, compare options and make informed decisions without lengthy sales conversations.

The Leeds campaign was deliberately placed on York Street, where commuters waiting at a nearby bus stop have plenty of time to read both billboards and appreciate the message. Rather than flashing past motorists in seconds, the campaign invites people to compare the prices and question long-held assumptions about outdoor advertising.

The timing also reflects the continued strength of the sector. UK out-of-home advertising generated £1.44 billion in revenue during 2025, while industry body Outsmart reports that the medium delivers an average return of £1.80 for every £1 invested and achieves advertising recall of 79% within a month.

For SMEs looking to raise their profile, these figures suggest outdoor advertising remains a powerful marketing tool. Loud! OOH's launch serves as a reminder that, with greater pricing transparency, billboard advertising could become a realistic option for many businesses that previously believed it was beyond their reach.

As competition for customer attention grows, making advertising simpler, clearer and more affordable may prove to be just as eye-catching as the billboards themselves.

Website: loudooh.co.uk

Pricing: loudooh.co.uk/pricing

Could Your Local Business Become a National Franchise Success Story? A Guide for Growing SMEs

Discover how local businesses with a strong USP can expand nationwide through franchising. Learn what makes a business franchise-ready and how to attract potential investors.

Every successful national brand started somewhere. Whether it was a single coffee shop, a family-run bakery, a specialist cleaning company or an innovative home improvement service, many of today's best-known businesses began as one local enterprise with a great idea.

If your business has developed a unique selling proposition (USP) that customers genuinely value, franchising could be the next exciting step in your growth journey.

What makes a business suitable for franchising?

Not every business is ready to become a franchise, but many owners underestimate just how transferable their model can be.

A strong franchise opportunity usually has several things in common:

A proven business model with consistent profits.

A recognisable brand.

Products or services that customers actively seek out.

Systems that can be taught to someone else.

Strong operational procedures.

Ongoing demand in multiple locations.

If someone else can successfully replicate what you do by following your systems, you're already thinking like a franchisor.

Your USP is your biggest asset

The strongest franchises don't try to be everything to everyone.

Instead, they excel at doing one thing exceptionally well.

Perhaps you offer an innovative food concept, a specialist repair service, eco-friendly cleaning, unique retail products or an outstanding customer experience that competitors struggle to match.

Your USP becomes the reason franchisees invest. They're buying into a proven concept that already stands out from the crowd.

Grow without owning every location

Opening branches yourself requires significant investment, management time and financial risk.

Franchising allows ambitious entrepreneurs to invest their own capital to open new locations under your brand.

In return, franchisees usually pay:

An initial franchise fee.

Ongoing royalty payments.

Contributions towards national marketing.

This creates opportunities to expand much more quickly than relying solely on your own finances.

Protect your reputation

Growth should never come at the expense of quality.

Successful franchisors invest heavily in training, operations manuals, brand standards and ongoing support.

From customer service and marketing to stock management and health and safety, every aspect of the business should be clearly documented so customers enjoy the same experience wherever they visit.

Consistency is what builds trust in a growing brand.

Think nationally from day one

Even if you currently operate from a single town or city, ask yourself:

Could this business work in Manchester? Birmingham? Cardiff? Edinburgh? Belfast?

If the answer is yes, your market could be much larger than your local area.

With today's digital marketing, cloud-based systems and online training platforms, supporting franchisees across the UK has never been more practical.

Get professional advice first

Franchising is a significant legal and commercial undertaking, so it's worth speaking to experienced franchise consultants, solicitors and accountants before launching.

They can help you develop franchise agreements, operations manuals, financial models and recruitment processes that protect both your business and your future franchisees.

Could your business be next?

Britain has an impressive history of successful franchise brands, many of which started life as small independent businesses with a big idea and the determination to grow.

If your business has a distinctive USP, loyal customers and a model that others can successfully replicate, franchising could provide the route to national recognition while helping other entrepreneurs build successful businesses of their own.

Sometimes the biggest opportunity isn't opening your next branch yourself, it's giving someone else the chance to succeed using the business model you've already perfected.

You should consider becoming a member of the British Franchise Association. For nearly 50 years the BFA have been representing the specialist needs of franchise operators in Britain.

https://www.thebfa.org

AI Is Now Influencing Buying Decisions More Than Ever, New Research Reveals

Artificial intelligence is no longer simply helping consumers and businesses research products and services, it's increasingly shaping the decisions they make.

New research from AI visibility consultancy LLM Listed suggests AI-powered platforms such as ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, Claude, Microsoft Copilot and Gemini are becoming trusted advisers throughout the buying journey, with an overwhelming 85% of buyers saying they have changed their mind because of an AI recommendation.

The findings come from the company's AI Buyer Journey Report 2026, based on responses from 770 buyers across the United States and the United Kingdom.

Perhaps even more striking is the level of trust respondents now place in AI-generated information. The study found that 97% trust information provided by AI platforms, while 94% said they would stop considering a company altogether if AI presented negative information about it.

For businesses, that represents a significant shift in how customers discover, evaluate and ultimately choose suppliers.

Business buyers appear to be embracing AI particularly quickly. According to the report, 91% of B2B buyers now use AI during the purchasing process, while 90% research potential vendors using AI before ever making direct contact.

Consumer behaviour is also changing rapidly. Around 84% of consumers now use AI somewhere during their buying journey, with 59% turning to AI as their very first stop when looking for product recommendations.

The research also suggests businesses may be underestimating AI's influence because many buyers never click directly through from AI platforms to company websites. Instead, they often search Google for a company name, type the website address directly into their browser or even ask AI tools for telephone numbers and contact details before making contact.

Among consumer users, Google AI Overviews (39%) and ChatGPT (35%) emerged as the two most popular AI platforms for product research. Business buyers showed more varied preferences, using Google AI Overviews (27%), ChatGPT (23%), Claude (15%) and Microsoft Copilot (11%) in significant numbers.

Ben Harper, Founder of LLM Listed, believes the findings demonstrate a major change in customer behaviour.

He said told That's Business: "The findings suggest that AI is no longer simply a research tool. It is increasingly becoming a decision-making tool."

He added that organisations can no longer afford to ignore how they appear across AI platforms, particularly when buyers are placing so much trust in the information they receive.

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday purchasing decisions, businesses may need to pay as much attention to how they are represented by AI systems as they do to their websites, search engine rankings and online reviews. In an increasingly AI-driven marketplace, visibility across these platforms could become just as important as visibility on traditional search engines.

https://llmlisted.com/

GAP Group North East expands with new Yorkshire facility to boost electrical recycling services across the UK

GAP Group North East is expanding its nationwide electrical recycling and resource recovery network with the opening of a new operational facility in Yorkshire, strengthening its ability to deliver faster, more efficient services to businesses, local authorities and compliance partners across much of the UK.

The fully accredited electrical recycling specialist already operates established processing centres in Gateshead and Perthshire, providing extensive coverage across North East England and Scotland. The addition of a Yorkshire hub represents the next stage of the company's growth strategy, creating a central location that will significantly improve services for customers throughout Yorkshire, the Midlands and the South of England and Wales.

By reducing collection distances and improving logistics, the new facility is expected to deliver quicker response times, greater operational flexibility and enhanced processing capacity for organisations handling Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE).

Nigel Tomlinson, Commercial Director at GAP Group North East, said the expansion reflects the company's commitment to supporting customers wherever they are based.

He told That's Business: "As demand grows, our mission is to make sure every customer, wherever they are in the UK, receives the same level of service, speed and compliance support. The Yorkshire site is about us providing what our customers need."

The new facility is set to offer a number of practical advantages for customers, including more efficient transport routes that reduce travel mileage and improve collection turnaround times. Shorter lead times from collection requests to processing will also help businesses meet tighter project deadlines, while increased capacity will enable GAP Group to respond more effectively to urgent, high-volume or complex recycling requirements.

The expansion comes at a time when regulatory expectations surrounding WEEE compliance continue to increase. Businesses, public sector organisations and compliance schemes are under growing pressure to ensure electrical waste is managed responsibly, creating greater demand for accredited recycling partners with the capacity to handle larger volumes across multiple waste streams.

GAP Group says the Yorkshire site will allow it to maintain the high standards of reliability and responsiveness that customers have come to expect while supporting continued growth in demand.

The enhanced network is expected to benefit a wide range of organisations, from facilities management companies coordinating nationwide collections and retailers undertaking store refurbishments, to construction firms clearing project sites, education trusts replacing IT equipment and brokers managing compliance obligations on behalf of clients.

With three strategically located processing facilities, GAP Group North East is positioning itself to provide faster, more accessible and more resilient electrical recycling services to organisations across the UK.

https://gapgroupuk.com

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Manufacturers Turn to Digital Permit Systems as Workplace Safety Inspections Increase

Manufacturers are increasingly replacing traditional paper-based permit-to-work systems with digital alternatives as workplace safety inspections place greater emphasis on real-time contractor management and operational control.

According to Cork-based EHA Soft Solutions, enquiries for its mai™ electronic work permit system have risen significantly as businesses prepare for more rigorous inspections focusing on permit-to-work procedures and contractor compliance.

The shift reflects changing expectations from workplace regulators. Rather than simply checking whether paperwork exists, inspectors are increasingly looking for evidence that organisations can demonstrate exactly who is carrying out high-risk work, what authorisations are in place and whether appropriate safety controls are being followed at that moment.

Dr Dan Gallagher, Founder and Managing Director of EHA Soft Solutions, believes the days of relying solely on paper permits are rapidly coming to an end.

He explained to That's Business that inspectors now expect organisations to be able to instantly identify every active permit on site, who authorised it, who is working under it and the safeguards that are currently in place. If this information cannot be produced quickly, businesses may struggle to demonstrate effective operational control.

The company's digital permit platform is designed to reduce the risks associated with manual processes by ensuring mandatory information is completed before a permit can be issued. Approval workflows can also be tailored so that permits are automatically routed to the appropriate managers for authorisation.

Where contractors are involved, the system checks that workers have completed site inductions, hold valid certifications, possess current insurance documentation and meet competency requirements before work begins. Approved risk assessments and method statements are also linked directly to each permit, creating a clear audit trail.

Managers benefit from live dashboards showing every active permit across a site, allowing engineering, health and safety teams, security staff and senior management to monitor ongoing work in real time. Every amendment is date and time stamped, creating a detailed record that can be reviewed during inspections or incident investigations.

Mobile technology also enables permit issuers to complete inspections directly at the work location, including capturing photographs, while the system requires formal sign-off once work has been completed — a step that is often overlooked with paper-based processes.

EHA Soft Solutions says growing interest in digital permits highlights a wider trend across manufacturing. Rather than viewing permit-to-work systems in isolation, many organisations are adopting integrated contractor management platforms that combine access control, online inductions, competency checks, document management and permit approvals into a single digital ecosystem.

As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, manufacturers are increasingly recognising that real-time visibility, accurate records and demonstrable compliance are becoming essential parts of modern workplace safety management.

ehasoft.com

International Day of Cooperatives: Celebrating Businesses Built on Shared Success

Discover why International Day of Cooperatives highlights the importance of member-owned businesses and how co-operatives continue to strengthen communities and economies.

Every year, the International Day of Cooperatives shines a spotlight on a business model that has been quietly transforming communities, supporting local economies and creating sustainable businesses for generations.

Celebrated on the first Saturday of July, the day recognises the contribution that co-operatives make across the world. From agriculture and retail to finance, housing, healthcare and renewable energy, co-operatives demonstrate that commercial success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.

Unlike conventional businesses that primarily exist to maximise returns for shareholders, co-operatives are owned and democratically controlled by their members. Those members may be customers, employees, producers or local residents, all sharing a common interest in the organisation's success.

This unique structure encourages long-term thinking. Decisions are often made with the wider community in mind, balancing profitability with fairness, sustainability and resilience.

The UK has a proud co-operative tradition. Millions of people are members of co-operatives, whether they realise it or not, through retail societies, credit unions, farming groups or employee-owned businesses. Many communities also rely on co-operative enterprises to preserve vital local services that might otherwise disappear.

For entrepreneurs and business leaders, the co-operative model offers an alternative way to build an organisation. Employee-owned businesses, for example, can improve staff engagement, increase loyalty and create a stronger sense of shared purpose.

Producer co-operatives allow smaller businesses to pool resources, improve purchasing power and compete more effectively in increasingly challenging markets.

As businesses continue to face economic uncertainty, changing consumer expectations and growing pressure to operate sustainably, many are looking again at collaborative models that distribute both opportunity and responsibility more evenly.

Consumers, too, are increasingly interested in supporting organisations whose values align with their own. Transparency, ethical trading and community investment are becoming important factors in purchasing decisions, making the co-operative approach more relevant than ever.

International Day of Cooperatives is an opportunity not only to celebrate existing success stories but also to encourage discussion about how businesses can become more resilient, inclusive and community-focused.

Whether it's a local food co-operative, an employee-owned consultancy, a community energy scheme or a national retail organisation, co-operatives continue to prove that businesses can succeed while delivering lasting benefits for their members and society as a whole.

As the global economy evolves, the principles of co-operation, shared ownership and mutual support remain powerful tools for building stronger businesses and stronger communities.

https://www.uk.coop

Micro-, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day: Celebrating Britain's SMEs

Micro-, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day: Celebrating the Businesses That Keep Britain Moving.

Discover why Micro-, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day celebrates the entrepreneurs and small businesses driving innovation, jobs and economic growth across the UK.

Every year on 27 June, the world marks Micro-, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSME) Day – an opportunity to recognise the millions of businesses that form the backbone of local, national and global economies.

While the headlines are often dominated by multinational corporations, it is the UK's small businesses that quietly keep communities thriving. From family-run shops and independent cafés to innovative technology start-ups, skilled tradespeople and specialist manufacturers, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises make an enormous contribution to employment, innovation and economic growth.

In the UK alone, small businesses account for the overwhelming majority of all private sector firms. Many are run by passionate entrepreneurs who have turned an idea into a successful enterprise through determination, hard work and a willingness to take risks.

These businesses create jobs, develop new products and services, support local supply chains and often provide a more personal level of customer service than larger organisations can offer. They are also quick to adapt to changing consumer habits, embracing new technology, flexible working and online trading opportunities.

However, running a small business is rarely easy.

Many owners continue to face rising operating costs, increased energy prices, recruitment challenges, changing regulations and ongoing economic uncertainty. Access to finance, cybersecurity, digital transformation and artificial intelligence are also becoming increasingly important issues for businesses of every size.

Yet despite these challenges, Britain's entrepreneurs continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience. Across every sector, business owners are finding creative ways to grow, improve efficiency and reach new customers both at home and overseas.

Micro-, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day is therefore more than just a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of the vital role these businesses play in building prosperous communities and driving future economic success.

At That's Business, we're proud to shine a spotlight on organisations of every size. Whether it's reporting on exciting new product launches, innovative technologies, leadership appointments, sustainability initiatives or inspiring entrepreneurial success stories, we're committed to celebrating the people behind Britain's business community.

So today, if you know someone who runs a small business, take a moment to support them. Buy from them, recommend them, leave a positive review or simply share their story. Small actions can make a big difference.

Here's to the entrepreneurs, innovators and independent businesses that help keep Britain's economy moving forward—today on MSME Day and every day of the year.

New BOHS President to Champion Worker Health Protection and Professional Standards

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS), the Chartered Society for Worker Health Protection, has announced the appointment of Sarah Leeson as its new President for 2026–2027, ushering in a new era of leadership as the organisation embarks on its ambitious five-year strategy.

Confirmed at the Society's Annual General Meeting, Sarah succeeds Adrian Parris and brings over 30 years of occupational hygiene experience to the role. 

Her appointment comes at a time when protecting employee health is becoming an increasingly important priority for businesses across every sector.

A Chartered Occupational Hygienist and Chartered Fellow of the Faculty of Occupational Hygiene, Sarah has spent much of her career in the petrochemical industry, holding a range of senior positions including Industrial Hygiene Manager for Europe, Africa and the Middle East. 

In these roles, she led occupational hygiene programmes across multiple countries, helping organisations manage workplace health risks and improve employee wellbeing.

Sarah has also been a familiar figure within BOHS, serving as Registrar of the Faculty of Occupational Hygiene since 2019 after six years on the Faculty Committee. During this time, she has helped strengthen professional standards across the industry while representing the Faculty on the BOHS Board of Trustees.

Speaking after her appointment, Sarah described becoming President as "a tremendous honour" and highlighted the growing importance of protecting workers from occupational health risks.

She told That's Business that she is committed to supporting the Society's new 2026–2030 strategy, raising the profile of occupational hygiene, encouraging professional development and helping more practitioners achieve Chartered status. She also hopes to strengthen BOHS's international influence through initiatives that improve worker health around the world.

Joining Sarah in the leadership team is Jason Hodgkiss, who has been elected President-Elect. A BOHS member since the early 1990s, Jason has played an active role within the Society for many years and has recently worked as the occupational hygienist on one of the UK's largest construction projects, promoting greater awareness of workplace health hazards.

Jason said occupational hygiene has a vital role in preventing work-related illness and believes there remains significant scope to ensure employee health receives the same attention as workplace safety across all industries.

Professor Kevin Bampton, Chief Executive of BOHS, welcomed both appointments, praising Sarah and Jason for their expertise, leadership and commitment to improving worker health.

For businesses, the appointments underline the increasing importance of workplace health management. As organisations face evolving health risks, changing regulations and growing expectations around employee wellbeing, strong occupational hygiene leadership will play a crucial role in creating healthier, safer and more productive workplaces.

https://www.bohs.org/

New Book Shows Businesses How to Navigate Technological Disruption

Discover how The Z-Curve by Alberto Torres helps business leaders understand AI, quantum computing and technological disruption to build long-term success.

New Book Explains How Businesses Can Stay Ahead of Technological Disruption

The pace of technological change is accelerating at an unprecedented rate, leaving many organisations struggling to keep up. 

From artificial intelligence and automation to quantum computing and genetic engineering, businesses are facing a rapidly evolving landscape that demands constant adaptation.

A new book, The Z-Curve: Navigating Your Business Through Technological Disruption, by business strategist Alberto Torres, aims to give leaders a practical framework for understanding how technological disruption unfolds and how organisations can position themselves for long-term success.

Today's businesses are operating in an environment where technological innovation is closely intertwined with global politics, competition for critical supply chains, and the race to control valuable data. As nations invest heavily in emerging technologies, companies are being forced to rethink how they compete, innovate and future-proof their operations.

The book introduces the concept of the "Z-Curve", a model designed to help organisations recognise the warning signs of disruption before it is too late. Rather than simply reacting to change, the framework encourages leaders to anticipate technological shifts and develop strategies that build resilience and sustainable growth.

History offers plenty of examples of companies that successfully embraced change, alongside those that failed to adapt. Technology giants including Apple, Amazon, Google and NVIDIA have transformed industries and achieved remarkable growth, while once-dominant household names such as Xerox, Nokia, AOL and Blockbuster have seen their influence fade as markets evolved.

According to Torres, the next wave of disruption is already underway. Advances in generative and agentic AI, quantum computing and biotechnology are expected to reshape industries even more dramatically over the coming decade.

Drawing on a series of real-world business case studies, The Z-Curve examines both successful transformations and costly failures, providing practical lessons for executives, managers and entrepreneurs seeking to navigate uncertainty with greater confidence.

Torres, a former senior executive and Partner at McKinsey & Company, is currently a member of Adobe's International Advisory Board and an Adjunct Professor at IE Business School. He believes technological disruption is no longer an occasional challenge but an ongoing reality for every organisation.

He said: "Technological disruption is no longer a distant threat; it is a constant reality for every organisation. Understanding how it works is the first step towards managing it successfully. The Z-Curve gives leaders a way to see disruption more clearly and act with confidence."

As technology continues to redefine the business world, books such as The Z-Curve provide valuable insights for leaders looking to remain competitive in an increasingly unpredictable future.

The Z-Curve: Navigating Your Business Through Technological Disruption is published by LID Publishing on 25 June 2026. Available in hardback (ISBN: 9781917391672), priced at £19.99.

For more about LID Publishing, please visit www.lidpublishing.com

You can buy the book at a discounted price here:- https://amzn.to/4xQOATn

AI is Helping Consumers Discover New Brands – But Trust Still Has to Be Earned

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way consumers discover new products and businesses, but fresh UK research suggests that while AI may be opening doors for lesser-known brands, it is far from replacing traditional research and customer trust.

A new survey of 2,564 UK consumers, commissioned by technology PR agency CloudNine PR, found that over half (52%) of people who use AI chat tools like ChatGPT say the technology helps them discover brands they would never have found otherwise.

With AI assistants increasingly becoming part of everyday shopping and research habits, businesses have a valuable opportunity to reach potential customers outside traditional search engines. Among those surveyed, 48% said they would consider buying from a previously unknown brand if it was recommended by an AI assistant.

However, the findings also show that consumers are still cautious. Just 4% said they would purchase from an unfamiliar brand immediately based solely on an AI recommendation.

Instead, most people continue to carry out their own research before making a buying decision. Nearly half (46%) said they would search for the company using Google or another search engine, while 43% would read independent online reviews. 

Around one-third would visit the company's own website, and more than a quarter would check whether the product was available on Amazon. Others said they would look for coverage in online publications or search social media to gauge public opinion.

The research highlights an important message for businesses: AI visibility alone is not enough.

Consumers also want greater transparency from AI platforms. Six in ten AI users said they would place more trust in recommendations if they could see information drawn from multiple independent sources, including news articles, reviews and influencer content.

CloudNine PR founder Uday Radia believes businesses should see AI as the beginning of the customer journey rather than the end.

He said AI is becoming an important product discovery channel that can introduce consumers to brands they may never have encountered before. However, he warned that businesses still need strong search visibility, positive reviews and credible media coverage if they want those discoveries to convert into sales.

The research also explored attitudes towards advertising within AI-generated responses. More than half of AI users said they would trust recommendations less if advertisements appeared alongside AI answers, while almost two-thirds said they would consider switching to another AI platform if advertising became commonplace.

As AI continues to reshape digital marketing, businesses that combine strong online reputations with high-quality content and genuine customer trust are likely to be best placed to benefit from this evolving landscape.

https://www.cloudninepr.com/chatgpt-ai-brand-discovery-trust/