Business London Press

Google’s Kirk Vallis shares all about powerful leadership tool in popular podcast

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11/09/2023

Google’s Kirk Vallis shares all about powerful leadership tool in popular podcast

Kirk Vallis, Google’s global head of creative capability development, is the latest thought leader and innovator to appear on The Bounce Backability podcast – and it’s just gone live.

It’s co-hosted by Simon Ursell, managing director of London B Corp four-day week environmental consultancy Tyler Grange, and Rusty Earnshaw – performance coach and consultant to the likes of the English Football Association, Great Britain Hockey, British Triathlon, the Rugby Football League, British Swimming and Google.

Kirk has spent the last 11 years of his career at the global tech giant – one of the top four companies on the planet.

As well as developing innovation frameworks, he’s more importantly helped colleagues navigate the right behaviours, mindset and techniques to unlock creativity, fresh thinking and innovation. It’s an approach inherent to the firm’s culture and, as a result, its employees are happier and more motivated, loyal and productive – whilst is bottom line is boosted.

Needless to say, there’s a lot to learn from Kirk Vallis on this podcast.

How to become a creative leader

He’s a firm believer that it’s people who innovate and that technology is the tool that increases its pace and makes us braver and more disruptive. During his 50-minute episode, he shares how to become a creative leader whilst developing creative capability across all levels of an organisation.

He also discusses how to harness creativity for problem solving, and the steps all leaders should take to create the right mental, physical and psychological conditions for their employees to do their best thinking – whether that’s in a regular internal meeting, a brainstorming session or developing and delivering the most ‘audacious’ new business proposal.

Can AI surpass human capability?

During the podcast, Kirk also delves into the fascinating topics of the intersection of AI and creativity and questions whether it will surpass humans in its ability to be creative, as well as the power of experimentation as a catalyst for safer and more ambitious goals.

He also discusses the concept of 10x thinking – pushing the boundaries of what is currently possible and looking for solutions that are so transformative that they have the potential to fundamentally change the way we live and work – as well as the importance of reflection, signposting, and external perspectives and how to embrace failure to make us more resilient.

New ways of working

Kirk joined Google in 2012 and has since gone on to build the organisation’s Magic Academy – the revered programme to help make creativity as valued a part of Googlers’ toolkit as knowledge and technical based skills. He’s also worked with them to disrupt their thinking, to develop new ways of working and to train them on techniques that help them be even more creative on demand, when it’s needed most.

He also consults with adidas, the largest sportswear manufacturer in Europe, financial software company Intuit, best known for its QuickBooks software and global professional services network Ernst & Young.

He also leads creative problem-solving modules for both the English Football Association and the UEFA Pro Licence and Technical Directors course. Recently, he supported the England Senior Men’s rugby team in preparation for what was a successful Autumn Nations Series in 202 with its trio of wins.

Focus on innovation

Simon Urselll, co-host of The Bounce Backability Podcast, said: “A crucial aspect of Google’s culture is its focus on innovation and creativity. The company encourages employees to take risks and think outside the box, and it provides them with the resources and support they need to do so. Kirk has been a driving force behind this approach to doing business for over a decade and, in doing so, has helped shape a culture that is extremely vibrant and attractive to the most talented people from all over the world.

“We can obviously all learn a great deal from his approach to innovation and problem solving and, importantly, how we should all reframe failure as an opportunity for growth and learning. Kirk shares how, by embracing failure as a natural part of the journey to success, we can unlock our true potential and develop the resilience needed to overcome future obstacles.

“All employers and leaders stand to gain by promoting creativity at work. The most successful businesses are those that engender creative thinking and develop environments where everyone shares ideas, has a voice, asks questions and challenges the norm. Some ideas will stick, others won’t, but you’ll definitely learn a lot along the way.”

Listen to the podcast here

Listen to Kirk Vallis on The Bounce Backability Podcast here. It’s also available on Amazon, Spotify, Buzzsprout, Listen Notes and Player FM.

London’s Mason Advisory ranks in UK Best Workplace in Tech™ report 2023

Business

News Desk

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11/09/2023

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London’s Mason Advisory ranks in UK Best Workplace in Tech™ report 2023

The prestigious 2023 UK’s Best Workplaces™ in Tech list has just been unveiled, with London-based Mason Advisory securing its place.

The technology consultancy firm has been acknowledged in the small & medium company category, alongside 99 other esteemed organisations.

Marking its fifth consecutive inclusion in this revered report, Mason Advisory’s consistent performance and commitment to industry-leading standards have once again earned them a coveted spot on the list.

Collaborative workplaces

In its sixth year, the Best Workplaces in Tech™ list celebrates companies renowned for cultivating dynamic and collaborative work cultures that act as catalysts for innovation and personal growth for their employees.

The rigorous evaluation process was administered by Great Place To Work® UK, which conducted a comprehensive Trust Index© employee survey. This survey gathered insights from tech employees across the United Kingdom to determine the elite Best Workplaces™ list.

Employees were asked to provide feedback on various aspects of their workplace experience, including work-life balance, sense of fulfillment, job satisfaction, psychological safety, and financial security.

Additionally, evaluations encompassed an assessment of the organisation’s ability to maintain a consistent employee experience across all departments and seniority levels.

Top talent

Mason Advisory takes immense pride in its vibrant company culture and remains dedicated to fostering an environment that attracts, retains, and nurtures top talent within the tech industry. The company has not only expanded its operations but also ingrained operational excellence in all aspects of its work, solidifying its status as a premier technology consultancy and an exemplary employer.

Paul Pugh, CEO at Mason Advisory, said: “Our whole team is thrilled that we have been recognised as a great workplace in technology for the fifth time as we are a company that promotes trust, pride, high performance, creativity and ambition.

“We are proud of our working practices and how we have managed to develop such a great culture – and of course, we are proud of every single member of our team. This accolade is testament to the high calibre of tech talent in our organisation and we thank all our employees for their commitment, enthusiasm and sheer hard work.”

Direct Co Group and School Uniform Direct Create World’s First Unisex School Blazer

News Desk

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11/09/2023

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Direct Co Group and School Uniform Direct Create World’s First Unisex School Blazer

The Direct Co Group / School Uniform Direct takes immense pride in introducing the world’s first Unisex School Blazer, a groundbreaking leap towards sustainable school uniforms. This remarkable innovation not only signifies a significant milestone in the fashion and schoolwear industry but also addresses the pressing need for sustainability. Launched earlier this summer, perfectly timed for this year’s back-to-school season, this innovation is poised to revolutionise the approach to school attire, with more than 70 schools already opting for this pioneering solution.

The feedback from schools, parents, and students has been overwhelmingly positive, with commendations on the outstanding balance of cost, convenience, and fit.

This pioneering initiative is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a more sustainable future. The Unisex School Blazer is meticulously crafted using recycled polyester, sourced from plastic bottles, marking a substantial stride in reducing the environmental footprint of school uniforms.

Benefits of the Unisex School Blazer:

Sustainability at the Core: By utilising recycled polyester from plastic bottles, the Unisex School Blazer exemplifies our dedication to environmental responsibility. This environmentally conscious choice significantly diminishes the demand for new resources and contributes to the fight against plastic waste. Furthermore, the company has entered into a partnership with Ecologi and is delighted to announce that from the 1st of November 2023, a new mangrove tree, one of the most effective trees for combatting carbon dioxide pollution, will be planted for every blazer purchased.

Financial Advantages: The Unisex School Blazer is not only environmentally friendly but also economically prudent. Its versatile design enables it to be passed on as pre-loved clothing, aligning perfectly with government guidance on second-hand uniforms. Families can save money, and children can enjoy quality clothing at a fraction of the cost, with the added benefit of it being easily passed on to any gender.

Furthermore, the durability of the recycled polyester fabric ensures that these blazers can withstand the rigours of daily school life. This longevity minimises the need for frequent replacements, further reducing costs and reinforcing the financial advantages of this sustainable choice.

Reduced Landfill Waste: By enabling the repurposing and passing on of the Unisex School Blazer, we contribute to a reduction in textile waste that would otherwise find its way into landfills. This move is in line with global efforts to minimise waste and environmental impact.

In addition to the Unisex School Blazer, The Direct Co Group / School Uniform Direct proudly introduced Unisex School Shirts in 2022. Both of these garments have undergone meticulous research and development, with a focus on fits and styles that meet the highest standards of comfort and durability. This ensures that students not only appear smart but also feel comfortable and confident throughout their school day.

As schools around the world grapple with the challenges of sustainability and environmental responsibility, The Direct Co Group / School Uniform Direct remains unwavering in its mission to offer innovative and eco-friendly solutions. The Unisex School Blazer and Unisex School Shirts stand as a testament to the company’s commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future for students and the planet.

Experience the Ultimate Augmented Reality Coupon Adventure with Pikd – Live Today!

Technology

News Desk

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11/09/2023

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Experience the Ultimate Augmented Reality Coupon Adventure with Pikd – Live Today!

Eleos World LTD is delighted to announce the official launch of Pikd, an innovative mobile app that seamlessly blends technology, gamification, and augmented reality to transform the coupon and discount experience into an exhilarating adventure.

Picture a world where collecting promotions becomes as thrilling as engaging in a popular augmented reality game. That’s precisely what Pikd offers – a brilliant fusion of Pokemon GO! and tangible rewards. As users traverse their urban landscapes, they can now unlock exclusive deals and offers from their beloved brands and local businesses in a captivating and interactive manner.

Pikd empowers users to embark on a quest to amass digital rewards and offers from a diverse array of establishments, morphing the act of coupon hunting into a genuinely exciting odyssey. With the app’s augmented reality features, users can effortlessly locate and claim digital coupons and discounts. Be it a tantalizing 2-for-1 deal at the neighbourhood café or a special discount at a local boutique, Pikd caters to the preferences of all.

Tochukwu Emuwa, Co-Founder and CEO of Eleos World LTD, expressed his exhilaration regarding Pikd’s launch: “We believe that Pikd will redefine how people engage with coupons and offers. Our platform blends technology and gamification to create a fun and interactive experience for users while offering brands a unique way to connect with their target audience.”

The Pikd app has been meticulously designed to be user-friendly, ensuring a seamless experience for both consumers and brands. Enterprises can partner with Pikd to construct captivating promotional campaigns that not only entice new patrons but also cultivate loyalty among existing ones. It’s a mutually beneficial scenario where users revel in remarkable deals, and brands gain access to an innovative and dynamic marketing channel.

With its official launch on September 7, 2023, in London, Pikd is poised to redefine the dynamics of coupon and discount interactions. Available for download on both iOS and Android devices, it’s time for users to embark on a thrilling new savings adventure.

Download:

App Store https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/pikd/id1659629173

Google Play https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nftrace

For media inquiries and more information about Pikd, please contact:

Tochukwu Emuwa at [email protected]

London Wilko discount stores set to shut

Retail

News Desk

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07/09/2023

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London Wilko discount stores set to shut

Putney, Dagenham and Hammersmith Wilko stores are among those set to close following administration talks.

The discount retailer has announced that 52 of its shops are closing for good on Tuesday and Thursday of next week.

Administrators for the business have made valiant efforts to find potential buyers, including B&M which says it will buy up to 51 stores in a £13 million deal.

Wilko has around 400 stores and employed 12,500 people when it went under last week.

Hundreds of job will be lost in the move, affecting warehouse and service staff across various locations.

GMB union said that PwC was still working with a bidder for Wilko “who has made an offer for a significant part of business”.

Wilko stores closing next Tuesday

Acton
Aldershot
Barking
Bishop Auckland
Bletchley FF
Brownhills
Camberley
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
Falmouth
Harpurhey
Irvine
Liverpool Edge Lane
Llandudno
Lowestoft
Morley
Nelson
Port Talbot
Putney
Stafford
Tunbridge Wells
Wakefield
Weston-super-Mare
Westwood Cross
Winsford

Wilko shops to close next Thursday

Ashford
Avonmeads
Banbury
Barrow in Furness
Basildon
Belle Vale
Burnley (Relocation)
Clydebank
Cortonwood
Dagenham
Dewsbury
Eccles
Folkestone
Great Yarmouth
Hammersmith
Huddersfield
Morriston
New Malden
North Shields
Queen Street Cardiff
Rhyl
Southampton-West Quay
St Austell
Stockport
Truro
Uttoxeter
Walsall
Woking

All that glitters really is gold for EcoStardust as sales rise by 16%

Business

News Desk

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07/09/2023

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All that glitters really is gold for EcoStardust as sales rise by 16%.

Business is booming for the firm selling biodegradable glitter made from plants.

Founder Kath Senior, 36, said sales have shot up as customers began partying again at home and festivals after Covid and the brand is in profit.

Its ‘Glitter Without the Litter’ catchphrase has struck a chord with consumers who have made sustainability a priority.

Senior talks about sustainability and her business success on Brightpearl’s Lightning 50 podcast.

She said: “We are growing really quickly in the UK and around the world and particularly in America.

“Obviously Covid and lockdowns weren’t good for a business based on partying and festivals which all shut down for almost three years.

“We picked up some business during Covid from the crafting boom with people making products at home such as bath bombs, but it was a tough time.

“But thankfully we are all partying again and making up for lost time after a really tough few years and this is reflected in our sales. It’s great to be in profit.”

EcoStardust is expanding globally and has recently started shipping to America because consumers were struggling there to source truly biodegradable glitter.

Senior explained: “There are a lot of glitter products that claim to be biodegradable but aren’t really.

“They need a temperature of 70-degrees to decompose which isn’t going to work in most customers’ compost heaps.

“We have benefited from customers seeing through the greenwashing claims of many of the brands entering the market.”

Senior was working in ecommerce when she started the business in 2017.

She said “I am passionate about the environment but also love festivals, glitter and dressing up and grew up going to Glastonbury Festival.

“I got the idea for EcoStardust when I was planning the celebrations for my 30th birthday. A friend and I were having a Hollywood glitter and glamour themed party and I was ordering in party supplies which included kilo bags of glitter.

“However, when it arrived with a large ingredients label saying polyester – it was then that I realised it was plastic and by using it I was littering. It took the shine out of it for me so I went on a search for an alternative and that is when EcoStardust #GlitterWithoutTheLitter came about.”

A big challenge for Senior has been making her packaging as eco-friendly as the glitter inside.

She said: “I didn’t want to package our environmentally friendly glitter in a plastic jar or any packaging we didn’t feel was sustainable.

“Luckily we discovered aluminium packaging and switched to tins which are perfect for us. They are lightweight, infinitely recyclable and highly likely to be recycled because of its value. Our shallow design means they fit through letterboxes so most of our orders can be sent as a large letter and there is no need for someone to be at home for it to be received.”

EcoStardust has some big retailer partners in Pretty Little Thing, Accessorize and ASOS which was the first to come on board after spotting Senior and her glitter at a festival.

She said: “They saw the potential of the product and got in touch asking me to go to London to have a chat with them. I was blown away. I was so nervous but at the same time excited as I could see the potential of what it would mean for my business if it went well.”

She runs a ‘glitter amnesty’ allowing customers to trade in their non-biodegradable glitter to the company in return for a 15% discount.

EcoStardust has seven staff and is based at Langport in Somerset near to where she lives with her young family.

Senior has grown the business while bringing up her two children – Ted who is aged three and baby Lily who is seven months old – and she is currently on maternity leave while the team drives sales in her absence. Ted attended his first trade show when he was just five weeks old.

Senior gets lots of support from her husband Lawrence McEwan, who works as a mechanical engineer.

She has not increased prices during the cost of living crisis but says the focus is very much on driving profits due to the squeeze on spending.

The brand is expecting to make a profit in five figures for 2023, though Senior would rather not specify a figure.

She said her top tip for sales growth was keeping a close eye on sales data from Google Analytics. This had highlighted the need to expand into America.

EcoStardust is on a mission to raise awareness of environmental issues and it gives 10% of net profits to environmental charities and bodies.* Kath Senior talks about sustainability and her business success on Brightpearl’s Lightning 50 podcast.

Average UK house price drops by £14,000

News Desk

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07/09/2023

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House prices in the UK witnessed their steepest annual price drop in 14 years during August, according to new data from The Halifax.

The lending giant said it is happening at a time when the impact of escalating mortgage rates is reverberating across the housing market.

A 4.6% decline in property values in the year leading up to the end of August – marking an average price reduction of £14,000 – has been noted.

However, this drop is in comparison to the record high property prices recorded during the same period last summer.

This brings the cost of the average home in the UK to £279,560.

More price falls predicted

The Halifax foresees additional price falls in the coming months, citing a 1.9% decrease in house prices between July and August alone.

Kim Kinnaird, director of mortgages at The Halifax said: “We may now be seeing a greater impact from higher mortgage costs flowing through to house prices.”

Buyers will gradually adjust their comfort level with mortgage costs as the market seeks a new equilibrium, surpassing the range observed in the past 15 years.

As of December 2021, the Bank of England has implemented 14 consecutive interest rate hikes in an effort to curb increasing consumer prices in the UK. Currently, the bank’s base rate stands at 5.25%.

Biggest house price drop in London

The Nationwide reported a 5.3% drop in house prices for the year ending in August, marking the largest annual decline since 2009.

The average rate on a two-year fixed rate mortgage is now 6.67%, according to the financial information service Moneyfacts.

The lender said prices had fallen all over UK, with the biggest drop in London, although the capital remains the most expensive place to buy in the UK.

Manhattan Associates Revolutionises Retail Returns for Shopper Satisfaction

News Desk

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07/09/2023

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Manhattan Associates Revolutionises Retail Returns for Shopper Satisfaction

Manhattan Associates Inc. (NASDAQ: MANH) has unveiled a set of advanced Returns Management capabilities designed to streamline and optimize the returns process, delivering a seamless experience for both consumers and retailers. These new features not only enhance customer satisfaction but also promote increased store traffic and cross-selling opportunities, thereby strengthening customer loyalty.

According to Manhattan’s 2023 Unified Commerce Benchmark, 41% of shoppers find the returns process to be overly time-consuming, and an overwhelming 96% express a willingness to make future purchases from retailers offering a smooth returns experience. With Manhattan’s enhanced capabilities, consumers gain the flexibility to choose their preferred method of return, whether in-store or online, including printerless options. Refunds or exchanges are processed immediately upon package scanning by carriers, resulting in a 3-5 day faster turnaround compared to most other retailers.

Ellie Crawford, Director of Product Management for Manhattan, emphasized the importance of prioritizing customer experience in today’s retail landscape: “For shoppers today, experience beats products. Returns are an inconvenience to consumers and a big cost for retailers, and our enhanced Returns Management capabilities help retailers provide a world-class experience to their customers even after the sale, strengthening loyalty and, in turn, profitability, At Manhattan, we are committed to solving business challenges in the simplest and most efficient way possible.”

These innovative capabilities not only reduce shipping costs but also enhance the sustainability of the return process by optimizing the return path and inventory placement based on assortment and current stock levels.

The new features enhance the returns process across the Manhattan Active® Omnisolution suite, extending from the contact center to store applications. They are automatically accessible to all subscribers of Manhattan Active Omni as part of the quarterly upgrade cycle.

Stay up-to-date with the latest product updates, customer insights, and partner news from Manhattan Associates on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

BizPlan.io receives Innovate UK Funding to Revolutionise Business Planning

News Desk

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07/09/2023

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BizPlan.io receives Innovate UK Funding to Revolutionise Business Planning

BizPlan.io, a groundbreaking ConsulTech platform dedicated to reshaping the global business planning landscape, proudly announces its recent acquisition of esteemed funding from Innovate UK. With this funding, BizPlan.io is poised to redefine the traditional consulting paradigm by seamlessly integrating traditional expertise with the capabilities of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and natural language processing (NLP) technology. The outcome? An innovative and accessible business document solution for startups and SMEs that will revolutionize business planning worldwide.

Ishan Chadha, CEO and Founder of BizPlan.io, expressed his enthusiasm for the funding and its transformative potential. “Innovate UK’s recognition of our innovative approach to business planning reaffirms our mission. We’re determined to democratize business consulting by empowering consultants with AI tools, driving costs down by a staggering 70%. Our vision is to create a synergy between traditional consulting excellence and cutting-edge technology, fostering inclusive entrepreneurship accessible to businesses of all scales.”

BizPlan.io’s groundbreaking platform leverages AI-driven automation, streamlining and expediting the business planning process. This innovative approach empowers entrepreneurs to effortlessly create professional business documents by merging the expertise of traditional consulting with the power of technology. These documents, meticulously reviewed by expert consultants from BizPlan.io’s team, enhance inclusivity and accessibility within the entrepreneurial landscape.

The core of BizPlan.io’s technology serves a dual purpose, benefiting both entrepreneurs and consultants. The platform provides an intuitive interface for entrepreneurs, automating the complex task of crafting business documents. This frees up time, allowing entrepreneurs to concentrate on crucial business strategies. For consultants, the technology augments their expertise, enabling them to offer nuanced and personalized guidance to entrepreneurs.

As the recipient of Innovate UK funding, BizPlan.io is positioned to expand its impact across diverse sectors. By infusing AI-driven automation into the business planning workflow, the platform simplifies the creation of essential business documents, enabling entrepreneurs to focus on core business activities and growth strategies.

BizPlan.io’s unwavering commitment to affordability, accessibility, and excellence remains steadfast. As the company harnesses its technological prowess, it steadfastly advocates for inclusive entrepreneurship, equipping startups and SMEs with essential tools to excel in today’s dynamic business landscape.

MeBe Toys Launches: Championing Diversity and Inclusion in the Toy Industry

Retail

News Desk

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07/09/2023

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MeBe Toys Launches: Championing Diversity and Inclusion in the Toy Industry

MeBe Toys, an innovative UK-based company, is thrilled to announce its official launch, bringing a fresh perspective to the toy industry by introducing a range of products that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. With a mission to empower children and nurture a strong sense of identity, MeBe Toys strives to create a world where every child can find representation.

MeBe Toys offers an engaging lineup of soft toys and action figures designed to spark creativity and inspire learning. Each toy is meticulously crafted with premium materials, ensuring both durability and safety for children of all ages. The initial product line features three soft toys: an Astronaut, Fire Chief, and Warrior King, each representing diverse races, ethnicities, and identities. These toys not only deliver endless fun but also serve as educational tools, promoting empathy, understanding, and acceptance.

Ade Shokoya, Founder of MeBe, expressed, “We are committed to expanding our product range, continuously adding new toys that represent a wider range of races, ethnicities, and identities. Our goal is to create a diverse and inclusive toy collection that resonates with children from all walks of life.

“MeBe Toys understands the importance of positive role models. That’s why our toys go beyond traditional stereotypes, featuring inclusive characters like astronauts, judges, and surgeons. By presenting a diverse range of role models, we aim to inspire children to dream big and believe in their limitless potential.

“As a company, we prioritise quality, safety, and sustainability. Our toys are meticulously made from safe and durable materials, ensuring they can accompany children on countless adventures for years to come. We are proud to contribute to a greener future by using ethically sourced materials and sustainable manufacturing practices.”

MeBe Toys invites parents, educators, and toy enthusiasts to embark on this exciting journey together. Let’s work towards a world where every child feels recognised, valued, and appreciated.

Explore MeBe Toys’ collection and join the movement towards a more inclusive future by visiting our website at www.mebetoys.co.uk.

How to become a creative leader

Can AI surpass human capability?

New ways of working

Focus on innovation

Listen to the podcast here

Collaborative workplaces

Top talent

Wilko stores closing next Tuesday

Wilko shops to close next Thursday

More price falls predicted

Biggest house price drop in London

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