Business London Press

DNA Sequencing Revolutionizes UK Scientists’ Efforts to Protect Bumblebees

Health

News Desk

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19/05/2023

DNA Sequencing Revolutionizes UK Scientists’ Efforts to Protect Bumblebees

In the face of the UK’s declining bee population, a UK science firm, SureScreen Scientifics, is pioneering the use of DNA technology to unlock the secrets of bee behavior and potentially discover new species.

Situated in Morley, SureScreen Scientifics has become the first commercial firm in the UK to employ DNA analysis for the identification of individual bee species, as well as wasps and hornets. By studying carcasses, pupae, and other materials left behind in nests, the company aims to shed light on the challenges faced by bees, including bumblebees, honeybees, and the 250 species of solitary bees that constitute the UK’s bee population. The detrimental impacts of farming, pollution, climate change, and habitat loss have severely impacted these crucial pollinators.

Understanding the circumstances affecting bee populations heavily relies on ecologists’ ability to locate and identify individual insects, providing insights into population trends. However, some species are challenging to identify, and identification is impossible without a carcass to work from.

This is where DNA analysis comes into play. It not only allows for the analysis of the insects themselves but also enables the examination of materials found in their nests, such as old pupae or larvae that failed to mature into adult bees. Wasps and hornets, including the invasive Asian Hornet, can also offer valuable clues about the ecological health of the UK and the potential risks they pose to honeybee colonies.

SureScreen Scientifics has already successfully utilized DNA and environmental DNA analysis to identify species like the Largeheaded Resin bee and the Orange-vented Mason Bee from remnants of pupae discovered in a wooden block that had previously served as a nest.

The process involves breaking down a sample, such as a bee’s leg or a section of its pupae, using a pestle and mortar. The material is then subjected to a series of liquid solutions, extracting the DNA within it. Further processing removes impurities, leaving pure DNA that undergoes polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This amplifies the DNA, enabling genetic sequencing and resulting in a complete species-specific DNA sequence. This sequence is then cross-referenced with other bee DNA sequences stored in an international database to accurately identify the species.

Leading the charge in insect DNA analysis at SureScreen Scientifics is Chelsea Warner, a lab technician and self-professed bumblebee enthusiast. Chelsea, who holds a Masters degree in conservation biology from the University of Derby and volunteers with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, aims to provide ecologists with a better understanding of bee behavior, distribution, and survival in the wild. Additionally, the DNA analysis might unveil new undiscovered species.

Chelsea acknowledges that while many bee species can be easily identified by sight, others, such as blood bees, may not resemble typical bees, while certain bumblebees, like the cryptic white-tailed bumblebees and Northern white-tailed bumblebees, can be confusing. DNA analysis offers highly reliable identification, eliminating the need for an actual bee specimen to gather evidence of its presence in the wild.

The team at SureScreen Scientifics, sister company to the double King’s Award-winning firm SureScreen Diagnostics, is currently occupied with analyzing water samples sent by ecologists seeking evidence of the presence of Great Crested Newts. Even the tiniest traces of DNA from stray eggs, saliva, faeces, or skin can detect the species. However, the company is eager to receive more unidentified bee, wasp, or hornet carcasses, as well as other biological materials, to further deepen their understanding of bee populations and their survival.

Chelsea eagerly anticipates delving into more bee samples, as well as those of wasps and hornets, as she recognizes the immense power of DNA analysis. Through her work with bees, she has developed a profound appreciation for their vital role and their positive impact on human lives in an imbalanced world. Leveraging DNA technology to comprehend how humans can aid bees in supporting the environment, and potentially identifying new undiscovered species, could play a pivotal role in future environmental conservation efforts.

Aside from their bee-focused work, SureScreen Scientifics offers materials consultancy and testing for manufacturing and the automotive supply chain. Under their Neo Vos brand, they provide at-home gut and nutritional health test kits, which they analyze and provide personalized recommendations based on the results.

To support their efforts, SureScreen Scientifics welcomes the submission of unidentified bee, wasp, or hornet carcasses, or other biological material, to further contribute to their research and knowledge about these crucial pollinators.

Fertiliser Supplied by Danish Nuclear Power and Other Technologies to Feed 45 Million Indonesian People

News Desk

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19/05/2023

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Fertiliser Supplied by Danish Nuclear Power and Other Technologies to Feed 45 Million Indonesian People

Danish nuclear power and other technologies to supply fertiliser to feed 45 million Indonesian people

4 billion USD plant moves one step closer thanks to agreement with Indonesia’s Pupuk Kaltim, with the venture set to save 1.7 million tonnes of CO2 per year

Four Danish companies, Topsoe, Alfa Laval, Copenhagen Atomics and Aalborg CSP, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the ammonia producer Pupuk Kaltim, together with Pertamina New & Renewable Energy, both of which are owned by the Indonesian state, about building a facility in Bontang that can produce one million tonnes of ultra-low emission ammonia per year. This is enough to produce fertiliser for the production of food for 45 million people, approx. one sixth of the Indonesian population.

In the next 6 months, the final examinations must be completed and the legal landscape in Indonesia should be fully mapped.

The plant will save the emission of 1.7 million tonnes CO2 per year compared to natural gas based fertiliser production.

Nuclear power from Denmark
What is completely innovative about the facility is that it will be powered by nuclear power from the Danish company Copenhagen Atomics, which is involved in the global race to supply small, modular nuclear reactors, SMRs, which are expected to become an important part of the world’s future energy supply.

The nuclear power plant will be 1GW, consisting of 25 SMRs and the entire plant must run for 50 years. Fun fact: Denmark’s electricity consumption on an average day in May is around 5GW.

The facility is expected to open in 2028 and the project will be among the first where Copenhagen Atomics’ modular molten salt thorium reactors come into operation.

New electrolysis cells from Topsoe
In addition to the ammonia synthesis, Topsoe will supply completely newly developed electrolysis cell technology, called SOEC. SOEC makes the production of hydrogen significantly more efficient and cheaper. Hydrogen is an intermediate stage in the production of ammonia.

Desalination and Heat Exchangers from Alfa Laval
Alfa Laval will deliver heat exchangers to optimise the energy balance of the plant, and desalination to produce ultra-pure water for the electrolysis process.

Thermal energy storage technology from Aalborg CSP
Aalborg CSP shall design and supply thermal energy storage systems, Molten Salt based Steam Boilers thus providing the energy balancing required to integrate the energy production from the SMR modules with electricity production and waste heat from power turbines with production of ultra clean water.

Billion USD project
The economics of the overall project have not yet been finalised, but the construction is expected to cost around USD 4 billion, plus operation and maintenance of the plant, as well as the supply of power to the plant from the SMR reactors afterwards.

During the plant’s lifetime, it will produce ammonia worth USD 25 billion at today’s prices.

The ammonia from the plant can also potentially be used as CO2 free marine e-fuel – and since Indonesia is on one of the major trade routes for international shipping traffic, it could be an obvious use.

The facility will be extremely competitive on the market for ultra-low emission ammonia, which is central to reducing agriculture’s and shipping’s CO2 footprint from fertilisers and fuel. Therefore, the Danish players expect that there will be demand for similar facilities elsewhere in the world.

Signing ceremony in Lyngby, Denmark
The agreement was signed on May 19 in Copenhagen at Topsoe HQ in Lyngby, Denmark, and all the participating companies were present, as well as representatives of the Indonesian embassy.

Thomas Jam Pedersen, chairman of the board and co-founder of Copenhagen Atomics, says:

“The perspective is enormous. Green ammonia at low price helps reduce the world’s CO2 emissions, and for our Thorium reactors, that market is a huge opportunity, especially when we can offer a complete plant together with our partners.”

Rahmad Pribadi, President Director of Pupuk Kaltim, says:

“Pupuk Kaltim views the joint study as an essential step towards achieving our sustainability goals. We are honored to work with industry leaders to promote sustainable practices and contribute to a greener planet. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our focus on innovation to revolutionise the agricultural sector. As consumers increasingly prefer sustainable and eco-friendly products, PKT is proud to be at the forefront of this movement.”

Pupuk Kaltim intends to find a feasible process to produce Ammonia without using hydrocarbon based raw material and powered by clean energy which will be called Green Ammonia.

Nikolaj Knudsen, Head of Business Development Power-to-X, Topsoe, says:

“The outlook of contributing to better food conditions for 45 million people in Indonesia while leaving in very limited carbon footprint is absolutely amazing. This is a very promising and progressive project, and we are excited to be able to support with our world-class Power-to-X competencies.”

Topsoe delivers its world leading ammonia synthesis technology and catalysts as well as its SOEC electrolysis technology for the production of green hydrogen. The hydrogen is the building block to achieve the projects’ ultra-low emission ammonia for fertiliser.

Dannif Danusaputro, CEO Pertamina NRE, says:

“We are very delighted with this agreement, working together with parties who have concerns about environmental sustainability, we hope this collaboration can support to accelerate energy transition acceleration and help Indonesia to achieve net zero emissions by 2060. We are looking forward to actualising this partnership.”

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (PNRE) desires to find a feasible process to produce Hydrogen whilst utilising Molten Salt Reactor and suitable electrolysers and other key components (Water Supply, Steam Boiler, Steam Generator, and Air separation Unit).

Karin Forsberg, President Business Unit Energy Separation, Alfal Laval, says:

“To build a functioning hydrogen ecosystem and truly accelerate decarbonisation, it’s crucial to have a systemic approach already from the beginning. Using recovered heat from electrolyser cooling to generate the demineralised water needed for hydrogen production, is a natural step to high efficiency for the entire system.”

Alfa Laval supplies heat exchangers and desalination. Alfa Laval is active in the entire hydrogen value chain. The company’s innovative technologies enable energy efficient heat transfer technologies in everything from electrolysis cooling and generating the ultra-pure water for the electrolysis and power-to-X. Also the world leading heat exchanger manufacturer and being in the desalination market for more than 60 years.

Peter Badstue Jensen, Executive Vice President and Partner at Aalborg CSP says:

“We are proud to be part of this milestone project and to be able to utilise our long experience of development and supply of some of the most advanced technologies for generation of steam and power, integrated with large Thermal Energy Storages, based solely on renewable energy.”

Weddings Get a Maximalist Touch with MrGuild’s Bold Suits

Fashion

News Desk

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19/05/2023

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Weddings Get a Maximalist Touch with MrGuild’s Bold Suits

Over the past few years, weddings have been more intimate and understated but in 2023, experts predict that couples will opt for bigger and more impactful celebrations. This shift towards maximalist weddings is reflected in the choice of fashion of bold colors and relaxed styles, with double-breasted jackets taking the spotlight over traditional suits.

London – MrGuild founder Gee Beller has announced that the UK-based e-commerce brand is exploring the trend of wedding attire, particularly the rising trend of double-breasted jackets over traditional suits. With the summer season approaching, the demand for alternative and bold colours is also increasing, and MrGuild is at the forefront of this fashion trend.

“Weddings have always been an essential part of British culture, and as fashion evolves, so do the traditional customs surrounding weddings,” said Gee Beller. “We’re seeing a shift towards more relaxed and casual wedding attire, with double-breasted jackets becoming increasingly popular as a statement piece.”

60% increase in double-breasted suit sales

In recent years, classic men’s suits have changed form, with cruisers and double-breasted jackets emerging as the new trend. This shift in men’s fashion is reflected in MrGuild’s sales figures, with a 60% increase in double-breasted suit sales compared to the previous year.

“We’re thrilled to see our double-breasted jackets gaining popularity, as they are versatile and can be dressed up or down for any occasion,” added Gee Beller. “We’re also seeing a demand for alternative colours, with green suits being especially popular over the past year.”

The double-breasted suits from MrGuild offer a unique experience to the wearer. Customers have expressed their love for these suits, citing their perfect fit, comfort, and attractive design. However, it’s not just about the physical aspects of the suit, but also the sense of empowerment and courage that it instils in the wearer.

Symbol of individuality and style

The suits from MrGuild are more than just clothing – they’re a symbol of individuality and style that help customers make a statement on their big day. It’s no wonder that customers keep coming back for more, eager to experience the unparalleled quality and service that MrGuild is known for. If one is looking for a suit that will make them feel truly special and help them shine on their wedding day, they need look no further than MrGuild.

“Bold colours are the new trend for grooms, and our emerald-green suits are the perfect statement piece for a fashion-forward groom,” said Gee Beller. In addition to bold colours, custom tailoring is becoming more popular in 2023 as grooms seek a suit that is truly one-of-a-kind. Every aspect of the suit, from the fabric to the buttons, can be customized to suit personal style.

Bigger, maximalist weddings are calling

“After several years of smaller, low-key weddings due to social distancing guidelines, we’re expecting to see a shift towards bigger, more maximalist weddings,” said Gee Beller. “We’re excited to be at the forefront of this trend, offering unique and statement-making pieces that will make any groom stand out on their special day.”

In the lead up to the summer wedding season, MrGuild is proud to offer stylish and versatile options for grooms who want to make a statement on their special day. From bold colours to classic double-breasted suits, the collections are designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s fashion-forward couples. With its commitment to quality, attention to detail, and personalized service, MrGuild is poised to become the go-to destination for grooms who want to look their best and stand out from the crowd.

Contact: Gee Beller – [email protected]

MrGuild’s Vibrant Double-Breasted Suits Transform Wedding Fashion

Fashion

News Desk

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19/05/2023

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MrGuild’s Vibrant Double-Breasted Suits Transform Wedding Fashion

In recent years, weddings have embraced intimacy and simplicity. However, 2023 forecasts indicate a resurgence of grander and more impactful celebrations. This shift towards maximalist weddings is accompanied by a change in fashion, with bold colours and relaxed styles taking centre stage, especially the rise of double-breasted jackets as an alternative to traditional suits.

London – Gee Beller, the founder of UK-based e-commerce brand MrGuild, has announced their exploration of wedding attire trends, particularly the growing popularity of double-breasted jackets. With the summer season approaching, there is an increasing demand for alternative and vibrant colours, and MrGuild is at the forefront of this fashion revolution.

“Weddings have always been an integral part of British culture, and as fashion evolves, so do the customary attire choices for weddings,” explained Gee Beller. “We’re witnessing a shift towards more relaxed and casual wedding outfits, with double-breasted jackets gaining prominence as statement pieces.”

Double-breasted suit sales surge by 60%

In recent years, men’s classic suits have undergone a transformation, with double-breasted jackets and cruisers emerging as the new trend. This shift in men’s fashion is evident in MrGuild’s sales figures, with a remarkable 60% increase in double-breasted suit sales compared to the previous year.

“We are delighted to witness the rising popularity of our double-breasted jackets, which offer versatility and can be dressed up or down for any occasion,” added Gee Beller. “There is also a growing demand for unconventional colours, with green suits particularly in vogue over the past year.”

The double-breasted suits from MrGuild provide a unique experience for the wearer. Customers praise their impeccable fit, comfort, and attractive design. However, it goes beyond the physical attributes of the suits; they instil a sense of confidence and boldness in those who wear them.

A symbol of individuality and style

MrGuild’s suits are more than just garments; they symbolize individuality and style, allowing customers to make a statement on their special day. It is no wonder that customers return for more, eager to experience the unrivalled quality and service for which MrGuild is renowned. If one seeks a suit that will make them feel truly exceptional and radiate on their wedding day, MrGuild is the ultimate destination.

“Bold colours are the latest trend for grooms, and our emerald-green suits are the perfect statement pieces for fashion-forward grooms,” stated Gee Beller. In addition to the vibrant colours, custom tailoring is gaining popularity in 2023 as grooms seek suits that are truly one-of-a-kind. Every aspect of the suit, from the fabric to the buttons, can be personalized to match individual style preferences.

Embracing grander, maximalist weddings

“After several years of smaller, low-key weddings due to social distancing guidelines, we anticipate a shift towards larger, more maximalist weddings,” revealed Gee Beller. “We are excited to lead this trend by offering unique and attention-grabbing pieces that will make any groom shine on their special day.”

As the summer wedding season approaches, MrGuild takes pride in offering stylish and versatile options for grooms who aspire to make a statement on their big day. From vibrant colours to timeless double-breasted suits, their collections cater to the evolving needs of fashion-forward couples. With a commitment to quality, meticulous attention to detail, and personalized service, MrGuild emerges as the go-to destination for grooms who strive to look their best and stand out from the crowd.

Contact: Gee Beller – [email protected]

Partridges 5th Annual World Chelsea Bun Awards: HRH Princess Michael of Kent to be a Guest Judge

News Desk

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18/05/2023

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Partridges 5th Annual World Chelsea Bun Awards: HRH Princess Michael of Kent to be a Guest Judge

HRH Princess Michael of Kent and actress and cake expert Jane Asher, patron of The Children’s Surgery Foundation, will judge this year’s World Chelsea Bun Awards. Other judges will include John Shepherd, owner of Partridges Fine Foods and Munther Haddad, the Chairman of The Children’s Surgery Foundation and a Senior Consultant Paediatric and Neonatal Surgeon.

This year for the 5th annual bake-off there will be both an Instagram Competition plus a Live Tasting Competition at Partridges in Chelsea. Although both competitions are free to enter bakers are encouraged to make a donation to the chosen charity, The Children’s Surgery Foundation.

To enter the Instagram Competition all bakers need to do is make some Chelsea Buns, photograph them and post the photo on Instagram using the hashtag #worldchelseabunawards and tag in @world.chelsea.bun.awards or email their photograph via https://www.worldchelseabunawards.com/ The competition closes at 5pm on Wednesday 17th May and the winner will receive a Partridges Hamper full of treats, a Partridges Certificate and a World Chelsea Bun Awards apron donated by Initially London.

To enter the Live Tasting Competition bakers need to bring or post their Chelsea Buns to Partridges, 2-5 Duke of York Square, Chelsea, London SW3 4LY, to arrive by 5pm on Friday 19th May.

Chelsea Buns can be entered into one of three categories:

Children (under 18)
Adults
Professional Bakers

Winners of each category will receive a bespoke Partridges hamper, a certificate, a World Chelsea Bun Awards Winners Apron from Initially London and the overall winner will become ‘The Supreme Champion Chelsea Bun Baker 2023’. On Saturday 20th May Lady Sophie Windsor, JohnShepherd and Munther Haddad will taste and judge the Chelsea Buns at Partridges in Duke of York Square. The buns will then be taken to The Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond for Jane Asher to judge them. Jane is performing the lead role in Somerset Maugham’s 1921 comedy The Circle from 29th April – 17th June 2023.

Buns in both competitions will be judged on how appetising they look, the originality/creativity of the recipe and the presentation/plating.

The winners will be announced at Partridges at 3.30pm, and on Instagram and at

https://www.worldchelseabunawards.com/ on Monday 22nd May 2023.

John Shepherd, Owner and Managing Directory of Partridges says…“The first Chelsea Bun was created around 1700 by Richard Hand close to Partridges’ store in Duke of York Square, Chelsea. Richard, known as Captain Bun, ran The Old Chelsea Bun House which was famous for its Chelsea Buns and counted King George II, King George III and their families amongst its customers. We are delighted to be holding the World Chelsea Bun Awards for the fifth year running and hope they will revive the baking of Chelsea Buns and help raise funds and awareness for The Children’s Surgery Foundation.”

Jane Asher says… “This wonderful charity is very close to my heart: it does so much to alleviate the potential pain and distress involved when little ones have to go through the trauma of surgery. Baking some delicious Chelsea Buns is a delightful way of raising money to enable us to do more, and I hope lots of you will join us in having a go.”

HRH Princess Michael will arrive at Partridges flagship store in Duke of York Square, Chelsea at 9am to help select the three winners in the ‘Live Tasting’ competition of the World Chelsea Bun Awards 2023.

RVA Surveyors Offer Insight into Business Rates Relief – What Can Businesses Expect from the Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure Relief?

News Desk

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18/05/2023

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RVA Surveyors Offer Insight into Business Rates Relief – What Can Businesses Expect from the Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure Relief?

The threat of another business rates hike was yet another blow for many businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, after surviving what has been an unprecendented few years.

Managing Director of the family-run, independent business rates reduction specialist, RVA Surveyors, Anthony Hughes, gives advice as to how businesses operating in these sectors can determine their eligibility for relief, and access it.

There are a few silver linings, however, as not only is the retail industry one of the only sectors to see am overall decrease in rateable value (RV), but the retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) relief was expanded for 2023/24.

With the RHL relief increasing from 50% to 75% for 2023-24, many commercial property owners and tenants cannot afford to miss out. While only applicable for businesses in England, it is worth £2.1 billion of the support package announced last November. This increase in a business rates relief could be a major respite for those businesses that otherwise might have had to take drastic measures in the next year.

Business rates reliefs are available to eligible commercial properties. They act as stopgaps or buffers for these properties business rates liabilities. It is the responsibility of the local authority to ensure that eligible properties are in receipt of reliefs.

But Does this Happen?

For 2022/23, the government introduced a RHL relief of 50%. Providing those sectors with a much-needed leeway in their business rates liability. Despite this, retail sales values fell by 1.2% in December 2022 according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The hospitality sector also suffered from a shock, as it saw a decrease in sales of 13% in the third quarter of 2022.

According to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), by September 2022 only 261,520 businesses had been in receipt of RHL. However, the Centre for Retail Research (CRR) found that retail businesses were closing at a staggering rate of 47 per day in 2022. More than 17,000 sites closed their shops. This was recorded as the highest amount for five years.

While local authorities are responsible for applying reliefs to eligible properties, this is not always the case. Many businesses owners are not made aware that they could be eligible or even that they might already be in receipt of some reliefs. This often means that businesses owners themselves must find a way to audit their business rates to see if they might be eligible for a relief.

Some Businesses Lucky Enough to Receive RHL

If not, many businesses may have been eligible for the 50% off business rates liability that this relief offered last year. Or, perhaps may be eligible for the 75% RHL relief this year.

“Whilst RHL is great for the here and now, few are aware or prepared for when the relief is set to end on the 31^{st of} March 2024.” Anthony Hughes, Managing Director of RVA Surveyors, explained. “Generally, Local Authorities do a fantastic job ensuring that reliefs are allocated quickly and accurately. However, they are notoriously understaffed and given the stresses and strain over the last few years, sometimes properties slip through the cracks. This is where we would encourage property owners and tenants to audit business rates accounts.”

Based in Manchester, RVA Surveyors are the family-run, independent business rates reduction specialist working across England and Wales.

The government has recognised however, just how much the last year has affected those in the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors. In March 2023, insolvencies in England and Wales increased by 16% compared to March 2022. Even in the retail sector, which the government has very proudly declared has seen a -10% decrease, businesses owners and leaders are considering shutting their doors for good.

With the advent of the 2023 revaluation comes an additional expansion to the RHL relief. From the 1^{st of} April 2023 until the 1^{st of} April 2024, RHL will cover 75% of an eligible property’s business rates liability.

While this is certainly a victory for these sectors, it is but a temporary one. As from the 1^{st of} April 2024, they will go back to paying 100% of their business rates liability. What might have been a year to save and invest in businesses, has become nothing more than a mad scramble to scrape together the pennies many businesses within the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors will need from the 1^{st of} April 2024.

To find out more, visit: https://www.rvasurveyors.com/

Orient Star’s Contemporary Selection Sees Launch of its First Skeleton Model

News Desk

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17/05/2023

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Orient Star’s Contemporary Selection Sees Launch of its First Skeleton Model

Combining refined quality with a relaxed feel, Orient Star has introduced the Skeleton from the Contemporary Collection, featuring the latest movement with a 70-hour power reserve and silicon escape wheel. The stylish, modern design includes intricate detail, and the hand-wound skeleten movement alludes to the vastness of the universe.

Established in 1951, Orient Star celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2021 with the launch of a new generation of Skeleton watches combining advanced technology and aesthetics. Following the Skeleton from the Classic Collection, this new model is the first skeleton in the Contemporary Collection. The new Skeleton features a new movement in grey, and a design that compliments every occasion.

As society adapts to new ways of working and boundaries between professional and leisure time continue to blur, so too do societal expectations and requirements of the wristwatch. The new Skeleton is neither too formal nor too casual, with a modern and stylish design that is both refined yet informal. Fine hairline and mirror finishing on high-quality stainless steel (SUS316L) give an edgy aesthetic appeal to the case and bracelet, and the dial tinted in grey gives a sophisticated and stylish look.

The compact and slim case with a diameter of 39 mm and thickness of 10.8 mm, the new metal bracelet with short pitch H-shaped links for comfort on the wrist, the dial with enhanced legibility, and blue hands that add an accent, all create a relaxed feel making it perfect for everyday use.

Skeletonisation in watchmaking involves leaving just the framework of the movement and exposing the mechanisms inside, and is a familiar style unique to mechanical watches. With the launch of the new generation model in 2021, it has become a new icon for Orient Star. This latest Skeleton is equipped with in-house F8B61 movement which complements the stylish design of the watch.

The hand-wound caliber F8B61 is not only highly precise with accuracy of +15 to -5 seconds a day, but it is also equipped with a silicon escape wheel made with the latest MEMS processing technology, extending the power reserve to 70 hours and significantly enhancing its practicality.

Another distinctive feature is the grey plating on the baseplate and bridges of the movement symbolising the vastness of outer space. The spiral shape and vivid blue colour of the patented silicon escape wheel, which utilises Epson’s proprietary technology, evoke images of the Milky Way, whilst the comet-shaped balance wheel bridge works in harmony to conjure the image of vast outer space.

The Orient Star Contemporary Skeleton is available at Orientwatch.co.uk, retailing at £2,759.99.

Business Travel Momentum Flies with Increased Booking Days and Online Adoption

News Desk

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16/05/2023

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Business Travel Momentum Flies with Increased Booking Days and Online Adoption

Though global inflation reached 8.8% in 2022, the number of business travellers in the UK has doubled in a year.

Q1-2023 has seen the positive momentum of H2-2022 continue in both business and leisure travel with demand across the world forecast to be at 85.5* per cent of 2019 levels this year, according to FCM Consulting’s latest Global Trends Report.

With inflation and the cost of living being front of mind throughout the UK, corporate travel is steadily returning to pre-pandemic levels. The report found meeting in person is cited to be the number one reason for corporate travel. For UK businesses, being able to travel again has meant relationships have been able to regain any momentum lost from previous years.

Although international airfare has increased in Europe by eight per cent for business class and 14 per cent for economy in the first two months of 2023, compared to the same period in 2019, there is still a high demand for business travel.

FCM UK Managing Director, Andy Hegley is pleased to have seen a significant rise in bookings compared to Q1-2022: “FCM UK has made more than double the amount of airline bookings in Q1-2023 than in the same quarter the year before. This demand alone shows UK businesses are looking to create more meaningful relationships with their clients, suppliers and partners. With global inflation predicted to fall this year to 6.6 per cent, it is predicted business travel will continue to see increased demand.

“FCM UK have also seen a rise and return of business travellers choosing London City Airport to depart the country from. In Q1-2022, it was the sixth most popular and in Q1- 2023 its second only to London Heathrow, which is the consistent top choice for UK airport,” added Mr Hegley.

Q1-2023 corporate travel demand remained strong despite the mixed economic conditions, with securing options and booking lower prices driving corporate travellers to book online, early.

For domestic booking trends during Q1-2023 versus Q1-2022, it saw a 27 per cent rise in online adoption, the advanced booking days extended from 17 to 19, and average days away held firm at 2.9.

On the accommodation side of things, Q1-2023 saw average room rates in Europe increase by seven per cent since Q1-2022, but by 19 per cent since the last quarter (Q4-2022). Manchester is one of three European destinations with a decrease in average room rate since Q4-2022.

Global hotel occupancy for the quarter was at 60.46 per cent, only four percentage points below the occupancy levels of 2019. There is a growing demand for one of the most successful traveller offerings in recent years – lifestyle hotels – focused on travellers who want a unique experience. Hotels with lobbies encouraging interactions, offering green initiatives, having slick technology, and well-being choices are some ingredients of a lifestyle hotel.

After 2022, a year full of significant imbalance of both supply and demand, air travel is predicted to stabilise this year, seeing added capacity in H1-2023 and airfares moderating in H2-2023. Data showing Q1-2023 seat capacity was up 2.1 per cent in Q4-2022 and down 6.8 per cent in Q1-2019.

Early forecasts show air capacity offered in 2023 will be just 2.5 per cent short of 2019 volumes. The region with the highest seat growth in Q1-2023 vs Q4-2019 was Asia with a 12.2 per cent increase, with most other regions averaging two per cent growth.

The exception to this was Europe which saw an 8.7 per cent decline as the region balanced changes in demand – but the Northern Hemisphere summer will drive demand in Q2 and Q3-2023.

Q1-2023 corporate travel demand remained strong despite the mixed economic conditions, with securing options and booking lower prices driving corporate travellers to book online, early.

Domestic booking trends for Q1-2023 versus Q1-2022 saw a 27 per cent rise in online adoption, the advanced booking days extended from 17 to 19, and average days away held firm at 2.9. The report also showed that in-person meetings were the leading reason for corporate travel.

Greggs Holds its Own Despite Unsavoury Economic Outlook

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16/05/2023

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Greggs Holds its Own Despite Unsavoury Economic Outlook

The UK’s leading food-on-the-go retailer, Greggs, has shared a trading update for the first 19 weeks of 2023 which saw like for-like sales rise by 17.1% and no change to the inflation outlook, with costs expected to rise by c. 9% this year. Despite this “considerable uncertainty” in the economy, however, 2023s full year expectations remail unchanged.

Charlie Huggins, Manager of the Quality Shares Portfolio at Wealth Club, commented:

“This is a solid performance from Greggs in a challenging economic environment, with little sign so far of consumers cutting back on sausage rolls and pasties.

The cost of raw materials, energy and wages are all rising rapidly and Greggs is significantly exposed to all three. However, at least inflation appears to have stabilised and isn’t getting worse. And crucially, sales are rising strongly, which is providing oxygen to help absorb cost pressures.

Some of that sales growth is explained by lapping the impact of Omnicron in the first nine weeks of last year. Even so, there is no doubt Greggs’ brand is resonating strongly with the UK consumer and is in fine fettle.

Inflationary pressures will continue to bite in the rest of the year, holding back profits. However, Greggs is in a far better position than most retailers to weather the storm, and is more than holding its own. Should inflation start to moderate, the business looks well primed to return to profit growth.”

More than 95 Million Europeans Predicted to Use Dating Services in 2023, With the Market set to Gross £1.5bn

News Desk

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15/05/2023

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More than 95 Million Europeans Predicted to Use Dating Services in 2023, With the Market set to Gross £1.5bn

Though the two largest dating services markets are currently the US and China, amassing more than half of the global dating industry revenue, Europe is now seeing a surging demand for dating services.

According to data presented by OnlyAccounts.io, over 95 million Europeans will use dating services this year, or 3.5 million more than in 2022.

The Number of Dating App Users Grows, but Revenue Remains Below 2021 Levels

After their exploding popularity in 2020 and 2021 amid COVID-19 lockdowns, dating apps and websites suffered a significant revenue drop last year as life returned to normal. According to a Statista survey, dating industry revenue declined or remained unchanged across all major markets in 2022, and Europe was no exception.

Between 2017 and 2020, the revenue in the European dating services industry grew 35% and hit $1.35bn. A year later, this figure rose to an all-time high of $1.51bn before falling to $1.44bn in 2022. Statista expects the entire market to gross $1.5bn this year, which is still below the 2021 levels. Around 40% of that value, or $620 million, will come from online dating as the market`s largest revenue stream. Matchmaking and casual dating services follow with $590 million and $280 million in revenue, respectively. Statista expects the following years to witness steady growth, with Europe`s dating services revenue reaching $1.62bn by 2027.

On the other hand, the number of users in the European dating services market has been constantly growing. According to Statista, more than 33 million people in Europe tried their luck with dating apps and websites in the past five years, pushing the total user count to 91.6 million in 2022.

This figure is expected to grow by 4% to over 95 million in 2023. More than 80% of all users, or around 77.2 million, prefer online dating apps. Casual dating and matchmaking services follow with 23.3 million and 8.5 million users, respectively.

Only Three Apps Hold 45% of the Market

Dating apps have become increasingly popular over the past years, especially among younger generations, making it easier than ever for people to connect with potential partners. And while Europeans can choose from a variety of available dating apps, Tinder remains their top choice.

The Statista data show around 22% of all dating app users in Europe prefer Tinder, the number-one app in the market. Bumble ranked second with a 12% share last year. Badoo, LOVOO, and Happn follow with 11%, 5%, and 4% shares, respectively.

The full story and statistics can be found here: https://onlyaccounts.io/blog/more-than-95-million-europeans-to-use-dating-services-in-2023-entire-market-to-gross-1-5b/

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