Features

The global eCommerce markets experienced a remarkable boom period over the past 18 months, presenting agile firms with an unprecedented opportunity to secure growth from a retail sector which, even in normal trading conditions, had been on an unstoppable rise for several years.

The mental health of employees should be a concern for all companies, regardless of size. Creating a culture that supports mental health is not only a moral – and often legal – imperative, but also business savvy. The consequences of a workforce with poor mental health are expensive. Proactive, innovative strategies in relation to employee mental health should therefore be part of all company toolkits.

The last year has caused a huge shift in the business landscape, with technology and digital skills being more fundamental than ever for all businesses. Research shows that businesses integrating digital skillsets across the workforce could increase the UK economy by around £92bn.

Coined by environmental campaigner Jay Westerveld 35 years ago, ‘greenwashing’ refers to activities by businesses that are designed to make them look like they are more environmentally sound than they really are.

Hannah Holland, Managing Director and founder of HLD Management, HLD Models, HLD Studios, Levelled Up: The Podcast, a leading female lead management company, is a strong powerful female entrepreneur. Since its inception in 2019, HLD has quickly grown to become a leader in the female Talent Management industry. We caught up with Hannah to find out more about her, her journey and HLD Management.

Business owners are feeling the pressure to adapt in an ever-changing world. The accelerated pace of change required during the global pandemic has highlighted the need for organisations to place digital transformation at the forefront of their strategies. However, putting those plans into action is another story and the difficult truth is that 70% of digital transformation projects fail.

There’s no denying that high-profile influencer marketing, when executed well, can drive a mass of traffic and word of mouth hype. But now thanks to ASA laws, influencers now have to be transparent when working with brands on these campaigns, which can leave customers feeling unsure as to whether an influencer is being authentic. As a result, a brand’s reputation can take a massive hit. 

It’s safe to say we’ve all had more time on our hands during the last 16 months or so. A trio of lockdowns have given us the chance to pause and reflect on what really matters. And, while it’s been a difficult year, important conversations have been sparked leading to the beginnings of some positive change.

Sir Dave Brailsford led the Great British cycling team to unparalleled success during his era as Performance Director between 2003 and 2014. The team went from the periphery of world cycling to winning over 150 gold medals across the 10 years he was in the role.

Four cutting-edge UK technology startups will now have the opportunity to develop minimum viable products (MVPs) to help industry titans digitise and improve their manufacturing processes, after being selected to go through to the final stage of Digital Catapult’s Made Smarter Technology Accelerator Programme.

In the wake of the global pandemic, many aspects of our everyday lives have changed, including how we shop – with many of us now choosing to buy primarily online.

Northern-based volunteer collective, Fund Her North, which brings together women in the investment industry to support Northern female founders, has launched the region’s only female angel syndicate, Women Angels of the North.

Angell was founded more than three years ago on the premise that Europe’s major capitals would be free of individual combustion vehicles by 2025. Angell’s mission is to improve day-to-day life in cities by designing, creating, and distributing future mobility objects for commuting, fitness, and leisure.

The augmented reality platform which allows shoppers to virtually try clothes on their own personalised avatars via their favourite online stores.

The MENA region has undergone major political social and economic changes and improvements over the last 20 years, but when it comes to business, entrepreneurship rates in the MENA region are still significantly lower than other global ecosystems. The number of early stage startups is relatively low.

This topic is probably one of those that were lost on very few people from the industry. But if this piece could save another startup founder from making a move that would affect their relationship with investors and probably jeopardise the whole fundraising process, I’ll try my chances.

Do you ever wonder how long you spend scrolling on social media platforms? Or, have you ever found yourself deep in a TikTok binge until the early hours of the morning? It’s a remarkably common occurrence, and it’s not your fault: social media apps are intentionally designed with addictive features. This comes at a big cost for both our physical and mental health.

Lorna Green, Director of Enterprise and Growth at Innovation Agency – part of the AHSN Network, is an integral part of the NHS’ efforts to drive innovation into the UK’s healthcare systems.

The impact of the global pandemic on UK M&A has been somewhat mixed. Following an extremely volatile period last year, which saw many businesses struggle to navigate the new norm and many others successfully ride out the storm, we have seen a strong rebound so far in 2021.

During the pandemic, virtual events have given everyone a chance to socialise with loved ones during difficult times. It has also helped work events continue in a new dynamic, with many employees favouring the virtual experience over in-person events. But now, in a post Freedom Day world, there is a strong desire to return to physical events.