ESSEC Business School Signals Long-Term Commitment to India with Launch of Hub in Mumbai

The hub supports the development of a hybrid 'STEM-B' model with leading engineering school CentraleSupélec and strengthens ESSEC’s elite partnerships with premier Indian institutions.

ESSEC Business School, a global leader in management education, officially announced the opening of its hub in Mumbai recently, in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron.

This strategic milestone coincides with the French President’s visit to India in honour of the Indo-French Year of Innovation. 

ESSEC’s Mumbai hub is the first step in a long-term plan to develop a strong institutional presence in India.

It will allow ESSEC to boost its international development, establish local partnerships, and enhance student recruitment and mobility.

"For years, ESSEC Business School has embodied academic excellence and truly global reach,"  Vincenzo Vinzi, Dean and President of ESSEC told That's Business.

"Today, that enduring legacy takes an essential step forward into a dynamic country of incredible growth and potential: India. This move is the first step in our long-term plan for a significant institutional presence in the country."

The newly inaugurated Mumbai Hub, to be led by Sophie Collet Khanna, is designed as a strong foothold to build deeper ties with Indian higher education institutions, corporate partners, and its robust alumni network. While serving as ESSEC’s strategic base, the Hub will be the catalyst for ESSEC’s ambitious academic roadmap in the region.

Sophie Collet Khanna

Sophie is a higher-education specialist who has spent nearly 20 years working between India and France, supporting French and international institutions in their expansion into the Indian market. She has recently been appointed Director of the ESSEC Mumbai Hub. A graduate of Sciences Po (2005), she has also been a Foreign Trade Advisor of France (CCE) since 2022.

Promoting a STEM-B Approach with CentraleSupélec

A cornerstone of this vision is a partnership with the top French engineering school, CentraleSupélec. Together, the institutions are fusing business, engineering, technology, and science to create a unique, hybrid STEM-B approach. This future-fit educational framework is designed to meet the needs of modern industries, focusing on solution-building and high employability in complex times. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering innovation at the highest level between India and France.

The two institutions are long-standing partners and currently deliver several joint-degree programs in France: the MSc CentraleSupélec-ESSEC Entrepreneurs, the Master in Data Sciences & Business Analytics (DSBA), the BSc in Artificial Intelligence, Data and Management Sciences and the Bachelor HEPTA, a program for high-level athletes seeking to both study and train at the same time.

Expanding Academic Excellence with IIMB and ISB

Further defining its commitment to the Indian market, ESSEC is pleased to announce the enhancement of its partnerships with India’s premier institutions:

IIM Bangalore (IIMB): ESSEC is in the process of establishing a prestigious double degree programme, where students are awarded an ESSEC Master in Management (MIM) and an IIM Bangalore MBA degree.

Indian School of Business (ISB): ESSEC is enhancing student mobility initiatives, strengthening the exchange of global talent and perspectives.

These partnerships will allow ESSEC students to have a new multicultural student experience and enhance their understanding of global business practices.

"The Mumbai Hub is where the next chapter of ESSEC’s global story begins," concluded Vinzi. "Together, we are ready to shape the future of management education in India."

The Mumbai hub is ESSEC’s third international hub - after London and New York City - acting as “embassies”: outposts of ESSEC abroad, designed to build networks composed of local alumni, academic institutions, and corporate partners.

www.ssec.edu

Tasman Analytics Appoints CPTO to Lead Productisation of Data Agency Services

Tasman Analytics the boutique data agency serving European scale-ups and mid-market companies, has appointed Mike Jones as its first Chief Product & Technology Officer. 

Rather than follow the more usual agency playbook of adding another delivery lead or sales hire, the newly created role signals a strategic shift.

Thus Tasman moves away from purely agency-based engagements toward productised services and operational systems that create recurring impact without requiring proportional headcount growth.

Why They Are Building, Not Hiring

Most data agencies face the same constraint: they can only grow by hiring more people or increasing their fees. 

Instead, Tasman chooses to build systems and products that deliver client outcomes, moving from time-for-money models to product-led delivery.

"The tech landscape in data is moving so fast that the future of client value looks much more like productised services than classic agency engagements," Thomas In't Veld, CEO of Tasman Analytics, told That's Businmess.

"That's a fundamentally different bet, and it needs a different kind of leader. Mike spent three years as our client. He knows what good delivery feels like from the buying side, and he obsesses over getting 80% of the value in 20% of the time. 

"That's exactly the instinct we need for what we're building next. His job is to turn our 'build capability and hand over' model into something repeatable, scalable, and increasingly agentic, where the systems we build don't just inform decisions but start handling the routine ones autonomously."

From Client to CPTO

Mike has spent the past 25 years in technical, commercial, and operational leadership roles. His background includes building fintech platforms for underserved markets as CTO at Picsa Group, scaling a food delivery startup to 1 million meals delivered as COO at Yebo Fresh, and leading a post-acquisition integration at Sage. 

Most notably, he spent three years as a Tasman client, first as COO at Inventory Planner, then as Senior Director of Product & Engineering at Sage following its acquisition, giving him rare insights into what actually works from the buyer's perspective.

"Having been on the other side of the table, I saw what made Tasman different. They genuinely care about making clients self-sufficient," said Mike. "The opportunity here is to build systems and products that create the same value but with leverage. If we can resolve 80% of common data operations challenges through smart productisation, we free up our team and our clients to focus on the 20% that actually differentiates their business."

What Tasman’s is Building

Mike focuses on two areas: operational systems that create internal leverage (TasmanOS, a single source of truth for client operations), and productised data services, including increasingly agentic data systems.

"We're not an agency bolting on a tech title," added Thomas. "We're all data practitioners ourselves, and we are building the kind of data capabilities that scaling companies need. Mike's here, the team is ready, and we are shipping.”

https://www.tasman.ai

That's Green: Clean energy needs a clean planet: PLAN-B NET ZERO...

That's Green: Clean energy needs a clean planet: PLAN-B NET ZERO...: PLAN-B NET ZERO announces a strong start to 2026 as it enters into a partnership with the Aachen-based environmental scale-up, everwave . ...

That's Green: Clean Planet Group Announces Strategic Investment ...

That's Green: Clean Planet Group Announces Strategic Investment ...: Clean Planet Group has received a strategic investment from FTAI Infrastructure (NASDAQ: FIP), managed by Fortress Investment Group .  This...

San Francisco–Based Venture University Launches UK Investor Accelerator

San Francisco–based Venture University (VU) has announced the launch of VU UK, an innovation hub that will bring its world-leading Investor Accelerator for Venture Capital (VC), Private Equity (PE), and Angel Investing to the UK market.

VU UK's hands-on venture capital investor accelerator combines an Education Program with an Investment Apprenticeship where participants build investment experience and a track record by making up to seven investments per quarter and receive a profit-share in the upside on those investments.

This initiative will be led by Jo Goodson, Partner and Head of VU UK, in collaboration with Andy and Remy Goldstein, Partners of VU Europe, who lead VU's Munich, Germany office.

Goodson is the former Managing Partner of international technology Mergers & Acquisitions advisory firm Hampleton Partners, working across many sectors from Fintech to Autotech and Digital Commerce. Over her career, Goodson has also founded, led, advised and invested in many tech companies helping them grow into industry disruptors in digital, gaming software, and entertainment.

The launch of VU UK comes at a time of increased national focus on improving access to finance and strengthening the UK’s investment pipeline. Government initiatives led by HM Treasury, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and the British Business Bank have sought to unlock more long-term capital for innovation and growth.

“The UK produces exceptional founders and technical talent, but structured pathways into venture investing remain limited. As a result, the venture capital ecosystem in the UK does not always keep pace with the scale of innovation being created. 

Expanding the pool of people who truly understand how to identify and invest in the next generation of high-growth companies is critical to long-term investment growth, job creation, and economic competitiveness,” said Jo Goodson, UK Partner at Venture University.

“Venture University is designed for professionals, operators, and aspiring investors who want to move from observing venture capital to actively participating in it. Our differentiator is hands-on learning through live investments, real funds, and real economic exposure — including a profit share in any upside on the cohorts investments. We believe this addresses a significant unmet need in the UK market.”

VU is now open to applications for its first upcoming VU UK cohort in 2026 and welcoming UK cohort members each quarter via reserved seats. Apply here: www.venture-university.eu.

Launched in San Francisco in 2018, Venture University is a global Investor Accelerator across venture capital, private equity, and angel investing. VU has graduated over 1,000+ alumni over 50+ global cohorts and has offices in the United States, Germany, Bulgaria, Hong Kong, and Brazil. Participants can join in person at one of VU's global office locations or join virtually from anywhere. 

VU's global venture capital fund, VU Venture Partners, has made 100+ investments across the US, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, including 10+ unicorns, including SpaceX, OpenAI, FigureAI, Neuralink, Anduril, 1X Technologies, Erebor, Wayflyer, Tyme Group and Flyr Labs.

Venture University UK (VU UK)

Participants in VU UK who gain a seat in this competitive programme join the investment team of VU Venture Partners for 3–12 months, combining a rigorous academic curriculum with high-quality, hands-on investment experience.

Working in sector-focused investment teams, they source and evaluate opportunities alongside VU’s partners, working on live deal flow across global markets, join and present at weekly Partner Meetings and Investment Committees.

Participants make up to seven investments per quarter (up to 28 investments over 12 months), building a track record with real attribution, and receive a profit-sharing agreement that allows cohort members to participate in the upside of their cohort’s investments.

Venture University Europe (VU Europe)

Andy Goldstein, Partner of Venture University Europe & VU Venture Partners, said: “This UK launch, on the back of our recent expansion with VU Switzerland, is part of our commitment to growing a class of highly-qualified European investors who can help grow their national economies, whilst also participating in global deal flows.

“With the pace of technological change, there’s never been a more exciting time to becoming an investor. Having access to a structured, hands-on end to end investment education process and the support of deeply experienced investment professionals can help make that a reality for many more people.”

Home Post Production Transforms Operations with Cutting-Edge Scheduling System freispace

Home Post Production, the UK's largest post-production house outside London, today announced its strategic adoption of freispace, a state-of-the-art scheduling system, marking a significant technological advancement in the company's operations following its recent acquisition by North Star Media. 

The full transition, completed in record time, positions Home Post Production at the forefront of post-production efficiency and innovation.

The Manchester-based facility, which serves major clients including BBC, Amazon Prime, Channel 4 and numerous independent, animation and commercial producers, has successfully migrated from its legacy scheduling system to freispace's cloud-based platform. This move comes as part of Home Post Production's evolution under new ownership, having been acquired by North Star Media from Streamland Media in a deal that retained all 40 employees and its 22,000 sq ft city centre facility.

Paul Austin, Managing Director of Home Post Production, told That's Business: “The adoption of freispace represents our commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology that aligns with our strategic vision for the future. 

"This isn't just about operational efficiency; it's about positioning ourselves as a forward-thinking, innovative post-production facility. 

"The market perception is crucial for us as a new brand, and choosing a progressive, modern system like freispace sends a clear message that we're doing things differently and better. This is our first major change since becoming Home Post Production, and it sets the tone for our future direction.”

The implementation process was remarkably smooth, with the entire transition completed within a month; significantly faster than the initially projected three to six months. The intuitive design of freispace enabled rapid adoption across all departments, from producers and edit assistants to creative staff and finance teams.

Martin Day, Head of Operations at Home Post Production, added: “What's been truly transformative is how freispace has consolidated our entire workflow under one system. The 'orders' feature has been a game-changer, allowing sales, producers, and finance to access all project information—quotes, bookings, invoices, and cost reports—in one centralised location. 

"We're no longer juggling multiple third-party applications or extracting data into Excel sheets. The time savings are substantial, and the collaborative nature of the freispace team means our feedback directly influences product development. It's not just software; it's a partnership.”

The new system delivers numerous operational benefits, including:

Unified Project Management

All project elements from quoting to invoicing are now integrated within a single platform

Enhanced User Experience

Modern, intuitive interface that has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from staff

Flexible Access

Browser-based system eliminates connection issues and crashes experienced with previous software

Cost Efficiency

Flagship pricing model allows unlimited users without per-licensing fees

Real-time Collaboration

Producers and creatives can interact directly within the system, improving communication

Leonardo Re, Managing Director of freispace, stated: “Our partnership with Home Post Production exemplifies the future of post-production management. Their decision to adopt freispace demonstrates how forward-thinking facilities recognize the need for modern, adaptable systems that evolve with their business. The rapid implementation and enthusiastic adoption by their team validates our approach to creating intuitive, user-centric software. We're particularly excited about the collaborative relationship we've established, where Home Post Production's insights directly influence our product roadmap. This is just the beginning of what we can achieve together.”

The timing of this technological upgrade coincides with Home Post Production's strongest performance year to date, with the facility handling high-profile projects including BBC's acclaimed documentary series “Ambulance” and Amazon's recent series “Lazarus”. The company processes a diverse range of content, from scripted and unscripted television to animation and commercial work, requiring nimble scheduling capabilities that freispace now provides.

Looking ahead, Home Post Production anticipates further benefits from freispace's planned developments, including advanced media library integration and enhanced API capabilities for seamless workflow automation. The collaborative development approach ensures that the system will continue to evolve in line with the facility's specific needs.

https://freispace.com

BIXOLON Demonstrates its Complete Range of Retail Printing Solutions at EuroShop 2026

BIXOLON Co., Ltd, a leading global Mobile, Label and POS Printer Manufacturer, welcomes visitors onto stand 6A32 throughout the show, where it will be showcasing its sophisticated range of Retail printing solutions to the European market.

Key exhibition product highlights will include:

POS Printers – Displaying its leading range of Point-of-Sale printing technology, BIXOLON will showcase the SRP-S200 2-inch (58 mm) and recently launched SRP-S300II 3-inch (80 mm) receipt and linerless label printers. Alongside the SRP-Q300 3-inch (80 mm) ultra-compact front-exit printer for space-constrained environments. The ultra-fast, feature rich SRP-380plus 3-inch (80 mm) desktop POS printer, and the best-selling SRP-350plusV 3-inch (80 mm) receipt printer known for proven reliability across retail applications.

BIXOLON will also present its kiosk POS printing models, including the BK5-31 3-inch (80 mm), BK3-31 3-inch (80 mm), and BK3-21 2-inch (60 mm), delivering dependable, high-performance printing for self-service and unattended retail environments.

Mobile Printers – Multi-award-winning manufacturer BIXOLON will showcase its XM7 mobile printer series, available in 2-inch, 3-inch and 4-inch (58 / 80 / 112 mm) models supporting linerless label and receipt printing for diverse retail needs from product markdown labelling to e-commerce labelling. Highlights include the XM7-40R 4-inch (112 mm) RFID mobile label printer, which combines fast printing with encoding capabilities for efficient RFID label management. The range is complemented by BIXOLON’s mobile printers, including the SPP-R200III 2-inch (58 mm) and the durable SPP-L310 3-inch (80 mm) and SPP-L410 4-inch (112 mm) mobile label printers, delivering reliable performance across retail environments.

Industrial and Desktop Label Printers – BIXOLON will unveil its NEW XD5-40II Series 4-inch (112 mm) including RFID-enabled model and healthcare-optimised models for mission critical, retail and medical labelling. Also featured is the XT5-40 4-inch (112 mm) industrial RFID label printer and the XL5-40 4-inch (112 mm) linerless printer supporting sustainable labelling. Plus the XD3-40 4-inch (112 mm) cost-effective desktop label printer and the XQ-840II 4-inch (112 mm) all-in-one touchscreen printer, all delivering reliable, value-driven performance across a variety of industrial and desktop applications.

BIXOLON also celebrates being joined on the stand by a selection of market-leading partners who will be showcasing the latest in software and hardware technology working in conjunction with BIXOLON’s printing solutions. These include plastic card printing from Maxicard, a full-service provider specialising in the printing, production, and personalisation of credit card-sized cards, delivering high-quality and secure card solutions for a wide range of applications. Plus interactive kiosks and software solutions from K2 CORP, a French designer of interactive kiosks and a developer of innovative software solutions.

“Retail is entering a new era where flexibility, automation and data-driven accuracy are no longer optional but essential” Paul Kim, Managing Director of BIXOLON Europe GmbH, explained to That's Business. 

“EuroShop gives us the opportunity to engage directly with retailers and partners, understand their evolving challenges and show how BIXOLON’s innovations can empower them to operate smarter, faster and more sustainably.”

To find out more, visit BIXOLON at www.BIXOLON.com or contact sales@bixolon.de to make an appointment to meet the team.

That's Christmas 365: EverFold Celebrates Success in the UK, Turns Perso...

That's Christmas 365: EverFold Celebrates Success in the UK, Turns Perso...: The husband-and-wife team who run That's Christmas 365 are always on the look out for new gift ideas.  So we were intrigued and excited ...

Leading London tech firm marks 2nd anniversary by declaring war on the ‘billable hour’

Red Eagle Tech celebrates two years of growth by proving that fixed-price engineering is the only viable future for UK SMEs.

Red Eagle Tech, a London-based software engineering firm, today celebrates its second anniversary with a call to action for the UK tech industry: it’s time to abolish the billable hour.

While the wider tech consultancy sector often relies on ‘Time and Materials’ contracts, which typically lead to spiralling costs and missed deadlines, Red Eagle Tech has built its success on a strictly fixed-price model. 

Two years in, the firm reports 500%+ year-on-year growth, proving UK SMEs are rejecting open-ended budgets in favour of ‘no-surprise’ engineering.

“The traditional agency model is fundamentally broken for SMEs,” Kat Korson, Founder of Red Eagle Tech told That's Business. 

“When an agency bills by the hour, they’re incentivised to take longer and the costs are, as a result, unpredictable. 

"We launched Red Eagle Tech two years ago to flip that model. We take on the risk of delivery, not the client. 

"If we run over, we pay for it, not them. This anniversary proves British businesses are hungry for that level of accountability.”

Solving the ‘tech gap’ for non-technical founders

Founded in 2024, Red Eagle Tech was established to bridge the gap between ‘No-Code’ DIY solutions and hugely expensive enterprise consultancies. 

Over the last 24 months, the firm has delivered complex cloud infrastructure, AI integrations, and bespoke applications for clients who previously felt priced out of custom designed software.

To mark the anniversary, the company is also highlighting the success of its newly launched SaaS product, MeldEagle - a Shopify automation tool born out of a client’s need to reduce manual data entry.

“We help clients gain a competitive edge in their market,” adds Kat. “Whether it’s automating e-commerce via MeldEagle or building a bespoke platform, our goal is to turn technology from a cost centre into a profit generator.”

Looking ahead: 2026 and ‘asymmetric warfare’

As Red Eagle Tech enters its third year, the firm is launching a dedicated AI Integration service designed to act as a force multiplier for small businesses.

“Looking ahead, 2026 is about ‘asymmetric warfare’ for SMEs,” says Kat. “We’re moving beyond simple chatbots to ‘agentic AI’ - autonomous agents that execute real-world business workflows, not just talk about them. We’re seeing 10x productivity gains in these areas, meaning the future belongs to the SMEs agile enough to adopt these tools before the giants catch up.”

Anderman & Company Successfully Completes Annual ISO Audit

Images courtesy Anderman & Co.

Anderman & Company is pleased to announce the successful completion of its annual ISO audit, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to quality, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

The independent audit, conducted as part of Anderman’s certification requirements, reviewed key processes across the business to ensure full compliance with internationally recognised ISO standards. 

The positive outcome demonstrates the strength of Anderman’s quality management systems and the consistent focus on quality across its teams. This marks the 6th consecutive year of successful ISO certification for Anderman.

“This achievement reflects the hard work and focus of everyone across the organisation,” Gary Hateley, Commercial Director, told That's Business.

“Completing the audit successfully is not just about meeting standards, it’s about maintaining the highest level of performance for our customers and continuously improving how we operate.”

ISO certification is widely regarded as a benchmark for quality and consistency, providing customers with confidence that products and services are delivered through robust, well-managed processes. 

For Anderman Ceramics, the audit outcome highlights the company’s ability to meet demanding industry requirements while continuing to innovate and support long-term customer partnerships.

The annual audit covered a wide range of areas including manufacturing controls, documentation practices, risk management, customer feedback and ongoing improvement initiatives. Its successful completion underscores Anderman’s proactive approach to ensuring reliable supply and maintaining the highest standards across its operations.

Anderman remains focused on delivering high-performance ceramic solutions to customers worldwide, supported by strong governance, skilled expertise, and a culture the priorities quality.

With the audit now complete, the company looks forward to another year of growth, strengthening customer relationships, and building on its reputation as a trusted supplier in the advanced ceramics sector.

https://anderman.com

That's Green: Energy-hungry AI and air conditioning risk wiping ...

That's Green: Energy-hungry AI and air conditioning risk wiping ...: The rapid expansion of renewable energy is being used to meet rising electricity demands rather than displacing fossil fuels, according to ...

Young entrepreneur programme launches in Furness

Young entrepreneurs taking their first steps in business have been selected for an exciting new programme to help them bring their plans to life.

Six young people, aged between 15 and 24 from across Furness, have been awarded a place on Positive Enterprise, run by Cumbria Community Foundation and the Centre for Leadership Performance (CforLP).

Their innovative business ideas range from selling African food and pizzas, to photography and make-up services.

Each participant will receive a £1,000 grant, plus workshops, expert advice, and the opportunity to shadow local entrepreneurs.

They will also be paired with an experienced businessperson to act as a mentor and guide them through highs and lows of running their own business.

The programme has run successfully in West Cumbria for the past three years and is expanding into Furness for the first time for 2026. It was launched at The Bridge in Barrow on 12 February, where participants and their families, mentors and organisers had chance to get to know each other and hear about previous success stories.

The programme is delivered by CforLP. Project Lead Rhianna Smith told That's Business: “Positive Enterprise doesn't just focus on the business outcomes, the real impact is long-term – supporting participants to build confidence, resilience and essential skills that shape their futures. 

"We are really excited to run the programme in Furness for the first time, and very impressed with the broad and creative range of their business ideas that reflect their different experiences, interests and ambitions.”

Positive Enterprise in Furness is funded by the Printers Inc Social Mobility Fund and individual donor Jan Ambler. Mrs Ambler explained what led her to support the programme.

“My husband came from a very poor background and appreciated the advice he got when starting out in business. We have always been interested in helping young people, especially those who do not have the same opportunities as others. Everyone deserves an equal chance.”

Annalee Holliday, Head of Grants Practice & Programmes at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “Positive Enterprise has a fantastic track record of delivering practical support and advice to young people starting out in business. There are so many success stories from the first three years of the programme – not only in terms of the number of businesses still going from strength to strength, but the confidence and life skills it has given those taking part.

“We are delighted to be able to offer the programme in Furness for the first time and are very grateful to the funders and mentors giving up their time to share their skills and experience.”

James Batchelor MBE, founder of Alertacall, has been a mentor on the programme for the past three years. He is encouraging others to sign up as mentors too.

"One of the most powerful ways you can have a positive impact across a community is to lend support to a young person trying to start their own venture,” James said. 

“You'll improve their skills, confidence and capabilities, and if their venture succeeds, they will go on to have a positive impact on countless other people. Your life experiences shared and your encouragement just a few hours a month is all that many brilliant young people in Cumbria need, and the truth is you'll also have fun and meet brilliant people.

“If you're considering youth mentorship, the Positive Enterprise programme is one of the easiest ways to get involved in Cumbria because all the participants benefit from brilliant leadership training and other wraparound support which truly maximises their chance of success. Go for it!"

To get involved with Positive Enterprise in Furness, either as a participant or mentor, please contact Rhianna Smith at CfLP on 07949 642598 or email rhianna.smith@cforlp.org.uk.

For more information visit www.cumbriafoundation.org/positive-enterprise

How UK Businesses Can Improve Employee Happiness and Productivity

Discover practical strategies UK SMEs and larger companies can use to improve employee wellbeing, boost productivity, and create a happier, more engaged workforce.

For SMEs and larger corporations alike, improving working life isn’t just good ethics — it’s good business. 

Employees who feel valued, supported and trusted are more productive, loyal and engaged.

Here are the essentials:

1. Build a Culture of Respect

Encourage open communication, listen to feedback, and recognise contributions. Trust reduces micromanagement and increases accountability.

2. Offer Flexible Working

Hybrid models, flexible hours or compressed weeks can significantly reduce stress and improve morale — often at little cost.

3. Prioritise Wellbeing

Support mental and physical health through realistic workloads, access to wellbeing resources, and leadership that models healthy boundaries.

4. Invest in Development

Training, mentoring and clear career progression keep staff motivated and reduce turnover.

5. Recognise Achievement

Simple gestures — public thanks, small rewards, milestone celebrations — can have a powerful impact on morale.

6. Strengthen Leadership

Good managers communicate clearly, lead fairly and support their teams. Poor management remains one of the main reasons people leave jobs.

The Bottom Line

When employees thrive, productivity rises, absenteeism falls, and recruitment costs decrease. Whether you’re running a growing SME or a large corporate operation, investing in workplace happiness is a strategic advantage — not a luxury.

FEV analysis: TCO cut by up to 33% through range extender trucks

FEV has published new analysis results on the economic efficiency of electrified commercial vehicles as part of an internal research program. 

The evaluation of extensive techno-economic data shows: depending on the driving cycle, through trucks with range extender architecture (REEV/Hybrid BEV) the total cost of ownership (TCO) can be reduced by up to 33% compared to conventional diesel trucks – while also significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. Even in the most unfavorable long-haul scenario, the TCO declined by approximately 14%.

Calculations are based on realistic European usage profiles with overnight charging at industrial electricity prices of around 19 cents per kilowatt hour. In regions with lower electricity costs, the advantage is correspondingly higher.

Cost-effectiveness without megawatt charging infrastructure

A key lever of the REEV architecture is the reduced battery size compared to purely battery-electric long-haul trucks. While typical BEV trucks require battery capacities of around 560 kWh, a REEV truck can manage with around 280 kWh. 

Even with slower AC charging at 22 kW, around 240 kWh can be recharged overnight – enough to power the vehicle almost entirely electrically for the next day. Thus, a megawatt charging infrastructure is not necessary for economical operation.

Significant TCO advantage in the cost-critical commercial vehicle market

The economic advantage of the range extender architecture results from several factors. The smaller battery of a REEV truck reduces vehicle costs and weight while increasing payload. Also, the high proportion of electric driving enables low energy costs, especially when charging at depots at night at industrial electricity prices.

Due to their low dependence on public high-performance charging infrastructure, REEV trucks can be seamlessly integrated into existing depot structures.

www.fev.com

MODS Launches Digital Enablement Service to Maximize ROI from Industrial Software Investments

MODS, a global provider of intelligent industrial software solutions, announces the launch of their Digital Enablement services, ensuring customers achieve immediate value, seamless adoption, and overall success from their digital investments.

An agile software provider, MODS moves beyond traditional implementations to deliver a bespoke experience that helps clients maintain business continuity through every stage of digital transition. 

MODS Digital Enablement supports the full journey from purchase to business-as-usual and beyond. 

The service combines training, system configuration, data readiness, an interim Super User, software customization, and continuous support into one flexible offering.

“At MODS, we don’t just provide software — we deliver success. Digital Enablement is a proactive change management and implementation service that ensures our customers realize value from Day 1, with quality-assured workflows, rapid adoption, and a clear path to measurable ROI.” – Jon Bell, CEO told That's Business.

From Purchase to Performance: A Proven Enablement Model

MODS Digital Enablement follows a six-step framework to deliver seamless implementation and long-term value:

Agree & Train – Full product demonstrations, user training, and skills-gap closure.

Optimize – Workflow assessments to identify and resolve process pinch-points before go-live.

Quality Assure – Data collection, digitization, validation, and system tuning to client needs.

Pre-populate – Systems are pre-loaded with project or asset data for immediate use.

Support – Ongoing change management, training, and implementation assistance.

Business as Usual – MODS can temporarily operate digital workflows on behalf of clients to ensure continuity during transition.

This approach significantly reduces implementation time and delivers value from the first day of use.

Designed for Real-World Project Workflows

MODS Digital Enablement includes bespoke software customization. Enhancements may include new features, integrations, templates, and workflow tools tailored to a client’s operational environment. Examples include: integration with enterprise systems (e.g., ERM), bespoke templates and automated reports, and new tools that streamline execution workflows. These customizations ensure faster returns on investment while aligning digital systems with existing processes.

https://mods.solutions

From SMEs to Corporates: How UK Employers Can Increase Productivity Through Employee Happiness

Learn how UK organisations of all sizes can enhance employee wellbeing, reduce staff turnover, and improve business performance.

For SMEs and larger corporations alike, improving working life isn’t just good ethics — it’s good business. Employees who feel valued, supported and trusted are more productive, loyal and engaged.

Here are the essentials:

1. Build a Culture of Respect

Encourage open communication, listen to feedback, and recognise contributions. Trust reduces micromanagement and increases accountability.

2. Offer Flexible Working

Hybrid models, flexible hours or compressed weeks can significantly reduce stress and improve morale — often at little cost.

3. Prioritise Wellbeing

Support mental and physical health through realistic workloads, access to wellbeing resources, and leadership that models healthy boundaries.

4. Invest in Development

Training, mentoring and clear career progression keep staff motivated and reduce turnover.

5. Recognise Achievement

Simple gestures, public thanks, small rewards, milestone celebrations, can have a powerful impact on morale.

6. Strengthen Leadership

Good managers communicate clearly, lead fairly and support their teams. Poor management remains one of the main reasons people leave jobs.

The Bottom Line

When employees thrive, productivity rises, absenteeism falls, and recruitment costs decrease. Whether you’re running a growing SME or a large corporate operation, investing in workplace happiness is a strategic advantage — not a luxury.

That's Food and Drink: Vegan Chocolat Expands Professional Range with Cos...

That's Food and Drink: Vegan Chocolat Expands Professional Range with Cos...: Vegan Chocolat has announced the launch of two new professional chocolate chip products designed to support food businesses seeking reliable...

GAP Group North East launches UK‑wide insulation panel recycling to tackle construction’s hidden waste and pollution problem

A North East–founded recycling business has launched a UK‑wide insulation panel recycling service to tackle one of construction’s most overlooked environmental problems: what happens to insulation at end of life. 

Construction is responsible for around 62% of all waste generated in the UK and roughly a third of everything sent to landfill, despite national targets to drive that figure close to zero.

Insulation is essential for cutting operational carbon in buildings, but once removed from a roof, façade or cold store it is still too often treated as disposable. 

In practice, that means composite and foam‑cored panels going into mixed skips, then into landfill, shredding or low‑grade incineration routes, where they can persist for centuries, releasing microplastics or releasing trapped blowing agents, harmful gasses and other pollutants.​

GAP Group North East’s new service gives contractors and facilities managers a compliant, direct‑to‑processor route for end‑of‑life insulation panels, helping to divert complex materials away from landfill and uncontrolled disposal. 

Panels collected from projects across the UK are processed through GAP Group’s specialist fridge‑recycling lines in Gateshead and Perth, where metal skins and insulation cores are separated and the gasses removed so that recyclable fractions can be recovered and hazardous components handled under strict environmental controls.

The environmental stakes are high. Older insulated panels – especially legacy cold‑room and composite units – can contain foams blown with ozone‑depleting substances or high‑global‑warming‑potential gases, which regulations say must be captured and treated rather than simply released during shredding, burning or uncontrolled disposal. 

At the same time, plastic‑foam cores such as EPS and other petrochemical‑based materials do not biodegrade and can break down into persistent microplastics that spread through soil and water, adding to the wider plastic pollution crisis.

Peter Moody, CEO at GAP Group North East, told That's Business: “Insulation has helped cut energy use in buildings, but if we just dump the panels at end of life, we are swapping one environmental problem for another.” 

Moody added “By putting insulated panels through the same kind of highly regulated lines we use for fridges, we can recover metals, control and capture blowing agents, and stop these materials ending up as uncontrolled pollution or long‑term landfill burden. That means a real reduction in embodied carbon and environmental risk for our customers’ projects.”

By routing waste panels through its established plants, GAP Group North East can:

Separate and recycle metal facings, reducing the need for virgin metal production and cutting associated carbon emissions.

Treat foam cores and blowing agents in line with ozone‑depleting substance and climate regulations, rather than allowing gases to escape during demolition, burning or landfill.

Provide a clear audit trail so contractors can evidence responsible management of one of their more complex waste streams and demonstrate progress against ESG and net‑zero commitments.

The new insulation panel service sits alongside GAP Group’s wider multi‑stream offer – including fridges, small WEEE, vapes, batteries, displays and more – enabling construction and FM customers to consolidate difficult, compliance‑sensitive waste streams with a single national recycler.

 For a sector under pressure to cut waste to landfill from 13% of total arisings towards a 1% target, services that unlock higher‑value recovery from “forgotten” fractions such as insulation panels are becoming a critical part of credible sustainability strategies.

GAP Group North East is a direct‑to‑processor specialist recycler handling a wide range of electrical and specialist waste streams, including fridges, small WEEE, vapes, batteries, lighting, cables and insulation panels. 

Founded in the North East of England but operating UK‑wide, the company runs processing facilities in Gateshead and Perth and provides fast, compliant national collections, detailed reporting and strong ESG support for business customers.

https://gapgroupuk.com

The Green Gloss: When “Eco-Friendly” Advertising Isn’t What It Seems

Is this where vegan leather comes from?

Walk into any high-street shop or scroll through online listings and you’ll see a familiar promise: eco-friendly, conscious, planet-kind. 

One label in particular has become a marketing darling... “vegan leather.” It sounds ethical, modern, and environmentally responsible. But scratch the surface and a less comfortable truth emerges.

What is “vegan leather,” really?

In most cases, vegan leather isn’t a clever plant-based breakthrough. It’s plastic, usually polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These are fossil-fuel-derived materials that don’t biodegrade and can shed microplastics throughout their life cycle.

Yes, they avoid animal hides. But avoiding animals doesn’t automatically make a product environmentally friendly.

Why the term feels misleading

The problem isn’t that alternatives to animal leather exist — they should. The issue is how they’re presented.

Calling plastic bags, shoes, or jackets “vegan leather” allows brands to:

Wrap synthetic materials in ethical language

Lean on the growing interest in vegan and cruelty-free lifestyles

Imply environmental virtue without addressing plastic use

At a time when consumers are urged to cut down on single-use plastics, refill containers, and choose natural fibres, this feels like a bait-and-switch.

Eco-friendly… compared to what?

Much of this advertising relies on relative claims:

“More sustainable than leather”

“A conscious alternative”

“Animal-free and ethical”

But relative to what, exactly?

If a “vegan leather” tote is:

Made from virgin plastic

Manufactured overseas

Designed to last only a season or two

…then its overall environmental footprint may be worse than a well-made leather item that lasts decades and can be repaired.

Durability matters. Longevity matters. End-of-life disposal matters. These rarely make it into the marketing copy.

The plastic problem we’re not talking about

Plastics marketed as fashion materials don’t magically escape the environmental issues we associate with packaging:

They don’t biodegrade

They can shed microplastics into water systems

Recycling options are limited or non-existent for mixed materials

Yet the same material, when shaped into a handbag rather than a carrier bag, suddenly becomes “eco”.

That’s not progress — that’s rebranding.

Are there better alternatives?

Yes — but they’re often drowned out by louder, cheaper options.

Some genuinely innovative materials include:

Cork leather

Apple or grape waste composites

Natural rubber

Waxed cotton or heavy canvas

Recycled fibres (when transparently labelled and responsibly sourced)

These aren’t perfect, but they’re usually more honest about trade-offs and don’t rely on greenwashed language.

Why clearer rules are needed

Terms like “eco-friendly”, “sustainable”, and “vegan leather” are still poorly regulated in advertising. That leaves consumers to decode vague claims while trying to do the right thing.

Clearer labelling could include:

The actual material composition

Whether plastics are virgin or recycled

Expected product lifespan

End-of-life guidance (repair, recycle, dispose

Without this, shoppers are left making ethical decisions with incomplete information.

Choosing better, not just “greener”

This isn’t an argument for or against leather, veganism, or fashion choices. It’s a call for honesty.

If a product is plastic, say so.

If it’s animal-free but not biodegradable, say so.

If it’s trendy but short-lived, don’t dress it up as planet-saving.

True sustainability isn’t about catchy labels — it’s about materials, durability, transparency, and accountability. Until advertising reflects that, consumers will keep paying a premium for products that sound green but behave very differently once they leave the shop.

Sometimes the most eco-friendly choice isn’t the one with the loudest claim, it’s the one that simply lasts.

Historic Routemaster Buses Take to the Streets to Mark 70 Years of Public Service

A special fleet of iconic London Routemaster buses will return to the capital’s streets today, Sunday 8th February, to mark the 70th anniversary of the Routemaster entering public service.

The commemorative road run is being organised by the Routemaster Association with support from Transport for London (TfL) and London Transport Museum and will recreate Route 2, the very route on which RM1, the first production Routemaster entered passenger service in 1956.

The event will begin with RM1 and other buses gathering at the Ace Café at 09:30am. From there, RM1 will lead a convoy to Golders Green Station and then follow the historic Route 2 through London, finishing at Crystal Palace where members of the public are welcome to see the vehicles up close, speak with owners and crews, and photograph these beautifully preserved buses.

The Routemaster bus remains one of the most recognisable symbols of London, celebrated worldwide for its innovative design, durability, and contribution to public transport history. Many of the vehicles taking part are privately owned and maintained by enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving this important part of Britain’s transport heritage.

Today, RM1 is cared for by London Transport Museum at its Depot in Acton as part of its historic collection documenting London and its journey over the past 200 years.

The event is free to attend, with no tickets or booking required, making it an ideal day out for transport enthusiasts, families, photographers, and anyone with an interest in London’s history.

Speaking ahead of the event, David Lee, Chairman of the Routemaster Association, told That's Business: “The Routemaster is more than just a bus, it’s a design icon and a symbol of London itself. Recreating the very first route it operated on, 70 years to the week after RM1 entered service, feels like a fitting and special way to mark this milestone. We’re delighted to welcome the public to join us."

Talking about the significance of RM1 and this milestone anniversary, Matt Brosnan, Head Curator at London Transport Museum said: ‘We’re delighted that RM1 can take part in this special Routemaster Association convoy marking 70 years since it first entered service. 

"As the very first Routemaster, RM1 is an icon of London’s transport history, and we’re pleased to have recently completed its restoration at our Depot in Acton, where it continues to be carefully maintained by our team. 

"It’s great to join up with the Routemaster Association and Transport for London for the opportunity to see RM1 back out on the road for this anniversary celebration. Members of the public will also be able to enjoy RM1 up close at our upcoming Depot open days in April, where it will be on display as part of our historic vehicle collection."

https://routemaster.org.uk

Railways Bill leaves 30% of passenger trains and freight in “limbo” – experts call for clear pledges

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK) (CILT(UK)) has welcomed the Government’s Railways Bill but warns that around 30% of Britain’s rail services, private sector passenger, devolved passenger and freight operations, risk being left without clear protections or long-term certainty unless the legislation is strengthened.

In its submission to the House of Commons Public Bill Committee, CILT(UK) supports the creation of Great British Railways (GBR) and the reunification of track and train. However, it says the Bill lacks clear, durable plans for how non-GBR operators, devolved authorities and freight operators will be supported and protected within the future railway system.

Anna-jane Hunter, Chair of CILT(UK), told That's Business: “Around 30% of all train movements on Britain’s railway will be operated outside of GBR’s own services, largely by regional and devolved authorities and the freight operating companies. 

"The Bill does not clearly set out how these services will be treated by GBR or how their access to capacity will be protected. Without clear words and procedures, there is a real risk that decisions are shaped primarily around GBR’s own priorities, leaving a significant part of the railway in limbo.”

Services operating outside GBR include Merseyrail, Tyne and Wear Metro, London Overground and all  of the rail freight operations critical to the UK economy and supply chains.

CILT(UK) warns the Bill does not clearly explain how regional or freight services will be supported by GBR, how their access to capacity will be protected, or how long-term investment and development will be secured. 

It is calling for a transparent plan, established under the Railways Bill, setting out how private sector passenger, regional, devolved and freight operators will be engaged, supported and protected.

The Institute welcomes the progress with Scotland and Wales, including proposals on joint working and GBR subsidiaries, but says devolved governments need greater clarity on local control, dispute resolution with GBR, and how their transport strategies will influence rail decision-making.

Anna-jane added: “This Bill presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a railway that supports economic growth, supply-chain resilience and decarbonisation. Getting freight right is central to that, but ambition alone will not unlock private investment.  A freight growth target that GBR is required to have regard to rather than comply with is more of an aspiration than a binding obligation that other services need to support.

“Freight operators need clear, credible and durable plans. Without stronger protections in primary legislation, freight capacity risks being squeezed out by GBR’s own passenger decisions, undermining the growth the Bill seeks to encourage.”

CILT(UK) supports the Bill’s introduction of a statutory freight growth target set by the Secretary of State for Transport and GBR’s duty to support freight, but warns that investment in terminals, rolling stock and services will only come with confidence that freight capacity will be protected.

The Institute says the Bill should be strengthened to embed freight in long-term planning, protect capacity through measures such as strategic freight corridors, ensure fair charging and regulation, safeguard privately funded freight facilities, and support international rail freight, including Channel Tunnel services.  Similar provisions should apply to devolved passenger services which provide key passenger flows in their areas.

CILT(UK) stresses that rail legislation must endure beyond a single Parliament and too much reliance on targets and guidance set by the Secretary of State for Transport creates a level of risk as they are limited to the term of the current Government, or possibly that of the relevant Secretary of State.  The Institute will continue working with Parliament and industry in an impartial way to help deliver a railway that supports economic growth, regional connectivity and a thriving freight sector across the UK.

www.ciltuk.org.uk 

Between autonomy and alliance: Akkodis and POLITICO convene decision-makers for the future of AI made in Europe

Europe’s debate on AI is shifting from ambition to execution. At the first European Innovation & Tech Summit, hosted by Akkodis in partnership with POLITICO, policymakers, industry leaders and researchers examined one of Europe’s most urgent challenges: how to turn world‑class AI research and regulation into scalable, trusted real‑world deployment.

Akkodis, a Europe based global digital engineering consulting leader – part of The Adecco Group - together with POLITICO, brought senior decisionmakers to Brussels at the invitation-only summit to address a central question shaping Europe’s competitiveness: How can AI bridge human ingenuity and machine precision?

Discussions highlighted that Europe’s future competitiveness will depend on deploying AI at scale across four strategic sectors: healthcare & life sciences, the public sector, autonomous driving & robotics, and defense. 

These areas combine high societal value, strict regulatory demands and strong deployment potential, making them essential to Europe’s AI leadership and sovereignty. As a result, participants focused on concrete implementation strategies, noting that progress in these sectors will determine Europe’s ability to turn AI into a driver of competitiveness, resilience and public trust.

Responsible AI as Europe’s Competitive Advantage

Across sessions, speakers reaffirmed that responsible AI is no longer an abstract principle but a baseline requirement. Speakers emphasized that trust in AI systems cannot be achieved through principles alone, but will require:

Clear accountability frameworks

Transparent and explainable decision‑making

Robust governance structures

Human-in-the-loop approaches

Deployable operational models for compliance

Sovereign and secure data infrastructures

Many argued that Europe’s regulatory leadership can become a competitive advantage – if paired with practical deployment templates that organizations can adopt quickly.

Autonomy vs Alliance: Europe’s strategic crossroads

POLITICO’s Spotlight session, “Between Autonomy and Alliance: Can Europe still shape the rules?” illustrated the geopolitical dimension of AI. In February, the world’s focus converges on two key high-level policy gatherings: The Munich Security Conference will set the tone on defense and the India AI Impact Summit is expected to advance a Global South-led vision for digital development. On the future of AI, Europe finds itself caught in the crossfire of this geopolitical apex. The debate exposed growing tensions in Europe’s AI strategy: while calls for technological sovereignty are increasing, European companies and public institutions remain heavily dependent on non-European foundation models and infrastructures. Speakers highlighted the potential of balanced global partnerships to truly unlock innovation at scale.

"The European Innovation & Tech Summit made one thing very clear: Europe does not lack AI ambition. With strong alliances we will accelerate and innovate for measurable impact,” said Jo Debecker, President & CEO of Akkodis, told That's Business.

“If Europe wants to lead in trustworthy and human-centric AI, regulation must be matched with scalable solutions, sovereign data infrastructures and AI gigafactories, as well as governance models that organizations can actually use. Akkodis sees its role as bridging research, policy and real-world application."

Jamil Anderlini, POLITICO Regional Director, Europe outlines the discussions of the summit: “What makes AI such a consequential issue for Europe is not just the technology itself, but the economic and policy choices around it. Decisions made in Brussels increasingly influence how AI is governed globally, which is why these discussions are so important for both Europe and the wider international system.”

“AI is but one of the key factors that will reshape the world order sooner and more thoroughly than we are prepared for. Brace yourselves for an interesting second quarter of the 21st century”, said Jacques Pitteloud, Head of the Mission of Switzerland to NATO & Ambassador of Switzerland to the Kingdom of Belgium.

“Ports are the perfect proving ground for autonomous technologies – our role is to enable innovators to test, learn and scale solutions that will transform the entire logistics ecosystem”, said Jonathan Van Cauwenberge, Port of the Future Advisor, Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

“New technology is offering us today, more than ever, remarkable tools to provide a better patient care. The 2026 European Innovation & Tech Summit in Brussels was a fantastic opportunity to discuss with experts and decision makers how we could collectively drive forward the healthcare model for the best interest of patients and for the best support of healthcare professionals”, said Ziad Matta, General Manager Servier BELUX, Board Member, Chamber of Commerce France-Belgium.

A forum for Europe’s technology & innovation decision-makers in the intelligent age

The European Innovation & Tech Summit represents a strategic step toward deeper European cooperation and broader global engagement on AI. Akkodis plans to continue the format as a platform for cross-border dialogue, with a clear focus on implementation, measurable impact and responsible innovation.

http://www.adeccogroup.com