Author: Scott Dylan

The Resolution Foundation has presented a compelling case for substantial tax reforms to be included in the forthcoming Budget. These recommendations are targeted at addressing the increasing fiscal pressures facing the government.The think tank’s report proposes the elimination of inheritance tax reliefs for agricultural property and business assets, which could generate £2 billion annually. Moreover, aligning capital gains tax rates more closely with those charged on dividends and wages has the potential to bring in an estimated £8 billion per year. These measures are intended to bolster the Treasury’s finances as part of wider fiscal reforms under Labour’s leadership.The report…

This morning, Renold, a long-established industrial chain manufacturer, announced the acquisition of two North American chain makers for a total of US$31.4 million.The acquisitions of MAC Chain Company Ltd (U.S.) and MAC Chain Company Limited (Canada) will provide Renold greater access to the lucrative forestry markets in the Western United States and Canada. The management teams of MAC Chain will join Renold’s existing North American team, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in operations.A trading update for the five months ended 31 August 2024 reported revenue of £102.3m, a 0.9% reduction at constant exchange rates and a year-on-year decrease of…

Manchester United, in partnership with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), is looking for an independent director to oversee a strategic initiative aimed at regenerating the Trafford Wharfside area, which will feature a world-class stadium.The appointed director and advisory team will ensure alignment with the existing Trafford Wharfside masterplanning process and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force’s efforts. This task force, established in March, includes local leaders and national experts who are exploring options for a new or redeveloped stadium for Manchester United.The task force is composed of figures such as Andy Burnham, Gary Neville, and senior…

Entain has reported a resurgence in its online gambling sector, largely attributed to the strategic actions of its new CEO, Gavin Isaacs, who took office last week. This development comes as a significant rebound for the company, which has seen its shares rise by 5.3% following the announcement.The company’s unscheduled update indicated positive momentum continuing into the third quarter, driven by increased engagement from events such as the Euro 2024 football championships and the Paris Olympic Games. Shares in Entain, which had plummeted over 40% this year, rebounded by 33¾p, or 5.3%, to close at 673¼p following the announcement. This…

The much-anticipated antitrust trial against Google commenced at a federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) accusing the tech giant of leveraging its vast size to crush competition in the digital advertising market.Julia Tarver Wood, an attorney from the DoJ’s antitrust division, asserted, ‘Google is not on trial because they are big, but because they leveraged that size to crush competition.’ This trial follows a separate ruling where a federal judge found Google had violated antitrust laws with its search engine monopoly. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, plans to appeal this ruling.Prosecutors claim that Google dominates…

The UK government is nearing the completion of a £500 million rescue package for the steel plant in Port Talbot, following the closure of its blast furnaces.The financing deal, initially developed under the previous government, aims to assist the steel producer in transitioning to a more environmentally friendly production method by constructing an electric arc furnace to replace the current coal-powered process. The company has committed to investing £750 million in the construction of the new furnace and providing a support package for employees expected to be made redundant during the transition.The move is anticipated to result in the loss…

Google, the dominant force in search, frequently implements algorithm updates that can dramatically alter the digital marketing landscape. The March 2024 update introduces significant shifts, posing both challenges and opportunities for SMEs, which often rely heavily on organic search traffic. This update, characterised by its complexity, necessitates a close examination of its implications for small and medium-sized enterprises.Google’s latest update continues to prioritise content quality and information credibility. Websites delivering high-quality, relevant, and trustworthy content are more likely to achieve higher rankings. Conversely, sites that fail to meet these standards may experience a decline in visibility. This shift underscores the…

In a surprising shift from conventional trends, Cumbria has emerged as a desirable location for Gen Z marketers seeking a balance between career progression and lifestyle benefits.A recruitment specialist has highlighted a growing trend among marketers aiming for entry-level or middle management roles in 2024. Gen Z is increasingly valuing location, with Cumbria being preferred over traditional hubs like London. This shift follows the launch of a job search for an Assistant Brand Manager by a well-known Cumbrian family business, which is looking to enhance its marketing team.The position, based in Penrith near the Lakeland hills, involves working with one…

A family-owned logistics firm celebrating its 50th anniversary this year has relocated to a new carbon-neutral headquarters in Warrington.John K Philips Group, founded in 1974 by John Philips after purchasing a truck to deliver paint, now specialises in the storage and UK distribution of paint and specialist liquids for sectors including pharmaceuticals and healthcare. The firm employs 80 staff and operates a fleet of 35 trucks and 32 trailers. The company has transitioned from St Helens to a 135,000 sq ft warehouse and office building known as Solar 120, located on Europa Boulevard, Warrington.The site, previously a call centre acquired…

Salford City Council has approved a £4 million civils contract to a local construction firm for the transformation of Chapel Street.This significant contract, approved by Mayor Dennett, ensures the use of local suppliers and subcontractors wherever feasible. The decision is part of a larger strategy to invigorate the local economy and support community businesses during the project’s development.In related news, an influential industry leader has called for a long-term vision for transport infrastructure. The appeal, which highlights the necessity of sustainability and forward-thinking in transport policy, aligns with broader infrastructural ambitions.Meanwhile, the Business Secretary has committed support to Liverpool following…