Appacut, a mobile barber application based in Manchester, UK, is now hosting more professional barbers than the largest high-street barber chain in the country. Since its inception last year, Appacut has revolutionized the way barbers connect with clients, providing a platform for freelancers to thrive without the financial burden of traditional shopfronts.
This digital marketplace does not employ barbers directly but leverages a business model similar to that of Uber and Airbnb, focusing on service without owning the infrastructure. This approach has quickly positioned Appacut as a leading player in the industry.
The app offers a straightforward, user-friendly interface that simplifies booking a professional barber to just four clicks, catering especially to those who value time and convenience. Appacut promises significantly higher earnings for its barbers, supplemented by bonuses for meeting specific targets.
Michael Lawes, representing Appacut, outlined the company’s ethos: “Consumers now want to access their essential services at the click of a button. And if possible, they want the service brought to them. You only have to take a look at the rise of apps like Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber for evidence of that. Appacut is the barbering and hairdressing sector’s answer to this changing demand. Here in the UK, we pay for more than 360 million haircuts every year, so the demand is staggering. Our unique app gives customers the ability to browse dozens of barbers and stylists in their area and choose the one that most closely matches their preferences. That’s a process that requires just four clicks.”
Jordan Ryan Madeley, CTO, highlights the integral role of technology: “The barber visits the customer’s home at the specified time – equipped with everything required for a successful hair-styling appointment. The professional slashes their operating overheads, and the client doesn’t have to venture into a High Street or worry about travel expenses. High Street rents and utility bills are at an all-time high in the UK, so Appacut is proving increasingly popular among independent barbers and business owners looking for ways to boost their profitability.”
With a strong base of users in Manchester, including VIPs and celebrities, Appacut is now focused on expanding its innovative service across the UK and beyond through additional funding rounds.
In a strategic move to expand its specialised logistics network, Viso Logistics has acquired A Really Cool Company (ARCC), a leading provider of temperature-controlled transportation services based in Wetherby, Yorkshire. ARCC, with a strong 15-year track record, primarily serves the food and beverage industry and a range of other sectors requiring controlled temperature logistics across the UK and Europe.
In 2021, Viso Logistics kicked off their ambitious plan to build an independent, specialised logistics network across the UK. Jag Express, a leading specialist courier in Cambridge, was the first company to join the network.
Andrew Wood, Managing Director at ARCC, spoke about the acquisition: “The ARCC team are very excited about this next step in the evolution of our business. A partnership with Viso Logistics gives us the best of both worlds – we retain our company values, team and everything that makes us unique, but we also get to leverage off some excellent knowledge both inside and out of the logistics sector. Ultimately, this means that our loyal customers continue to get the same care and attention they have always had. What’s great is that they will now have some extras to help elevate their experience with us, such as access to an expanded network.”
Alexi Jones, Managing Partner at Viso Logistics, was pleased to welcome ARCC to their network: “Our strategy is to acquire long-established, successful specialist logistics companies that have expertise in specific sectors. To work with a business like ARCC that is so highly regarded in the food and beverage and pharmaceutical sectors, and complimentary to our existing network, makes them a perfect fit for Viso Logistics. The ARCC team are passionate about the service they provide and are real experts in their field. We have been impressed with their depth of industry knowledge and committed team, and know that their service will be one that our expanding customer base will benefit from. The addition of ARCC expands our Group’s growing footprint. Together with Jag Express in Cambridge, we now have a North-South axis which expands the scope of work we can undertake for our combined client base.”
Amid the rising concern over fuel poverty and its influence on employee morale, Residential Energy Services (RES) has unveiled their latest initiative, the Workplace Energy Advice programme.
Sponsored by The Department of Energy Security & Net Zero and Midlands Net Zero Hub, this programme provides employees with the flexibility to access support for improving energy efficiency at work and home.
This fully funded initiative offers complimentary energy advice, particularly benefiting employees in the manufacturing, production, and retail sectors, where access to community advice can be hampered by unconventional work hours or limited technological and resource availability.
Designed to align with individual business operations and employee schedules, the service minimizes disruption by incorporating “drop-in” workshops, consultations, and pop-up services within communal areas during regular working hours.
The programme provides insights on how to reduce energy use and waste, includes information on energy-efficient practices such as insulation and air source heat pumps, and facilitates one-to-one sessions to determine funding eligibility, EPCs, and address any questions employees might have about making their residences more energy-efficient.
“This unique service from RES empowers employers to provide tangible guidance and support to employees to drive forward their commitment to sustainability,” declared Sarah Parry, Managing Director of Residential Energy Services.
Since 2014, RES has played a pivotal role in promoting energy subsidy awareness and providing advisory services to over 20,000 households across the UK, with a focus on educating homeowners about energy-saving
INTO University Partnerships, an organisation at the forefront of global education partnerships, has launched ‘Get Ready to Study’, a programme devised to offer comprehensive pre-arrival support to international students heading to the UK.
The ‘Get Ready to Study’ programme is an online course that helps international students gain access to vital academic and personal resources, facilitating a smooth transition into higher education and life in the UK.
David Rafferty, Director of Technology Enhanced Learning at INTO University Partnerships, expressed: “Studying abroad can evoke a range of emotions for students—excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a hint of nervousness. That’s why we’ve developed the Get Ready to Study online pre-arrival programme. It’s our commitment to empowering students to embark on their UK academic journey with confidence, equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.”
The programme is free and open to all students bound for the UK who are completing a pathway programme at one of the INTO Centres. These centres equip students with the necessary academic and English language skills to succeed in their chosen programmes.
Upon enrolment, students are automatically signed up for the ‘Get Ready to Study’ programme and receive a link to access the course a month prior to the commencement of their studies. The programme is customised to the student’s specific Centre and includes various engaging activities and guidance to enhance academic and digital literacy. It is divided into three key modules:
Life in the UK
This initial module offers essential information about what to expect from the study abroad experience, including adapting to UK culture, local activities, and making the most of their time at the centre. It also provides details on the INTO centre facilities and what the induction schedule will entail.
Study Skills
The second module covers vital study and digital literacy skills that will be used during their time at INTO, their chosen university, and in their future careers. This includes setting up an effective study environment, strategies for handling assessments, and balancing workloads to maintain personal well-being.
Employability
The final module explains how students can access important tools, resources, and support from their centre to enhance their career prospects and professional development, including finding work experience and placement opportunities.
Designed to be interactive, the program is embedded with video content introducing the topics of each module, with each having a short assessment at the end to solidify what students have learned, and typically takes around 90 minutes to complete.
Glen Blackadder, Learning Designer at INTO University Partnerships said: “We take a micro-learning approach where possible, to try to make sure the activities aren’t too onerous in terms of time, and that students can work through them at their own pace.”
The program was first rolled out to students in August 2023, and then to a second cohort in November. Participating students in the program have so far represented 58 countries, with more than 80% of those who completed the program saying that it helped them to feel prepared for their studies.
Chinese students showed the highest level of engagement in the program, with 84% opening the email link as soon as they received it. Overall, the majority of students engaged with the program, with most using it in the fortnight before their start date.
The high satisfaction rate from the program was reflected in the feedback, with one student commenting: “It prepares international students to know what they will face at INTO University Partnerships, and to acquire new skills.” Another student shared: “I was fully ready to start my program before my start date.”
The online platform also includes a feature allowing users to gain insight into where some of their fellow international students are from by looking at an interactive map. The map automatically updates in line with students’ responses, adding a colored pin to each mentioned nation.
Based on student feedback from the first cohort, INTO University Partnerships’ Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) team is implementing a range of new features and resources to further support students in getting the most out of the online program ahead of their start date.
New additions to the Get Ready to Study program, set to be rolled out to students later this year, will include more Centre-specific content so that students can familiarise themselves with their new learning hub and home. There will also be additional information on academic mental health to provide strategies for coping with academic stress and how students can best utilisetheir centre’s wellbeing resources.
At INTO’s UK study centres, students have access to tailored support from academic and student support advisors, providing them with the tools and confidence to progress to their chosen program at one of INTO’s university partners – four of which are part of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group. With centres located on partner university campuses, students can benefit from the societies and activities on campus and explore nearby local amenities.
INTO University Partnerships connects ambitious international students with leading universities in the US, UK, and Australia. Since its inception in 2005, INTO has helped more than 150,000 students from over 180 countries realise their dream of achieving a degree from a world-class university.
Whitefish Marketing, digital marketing agency specialising in the accountancy sector, proudly observes its 10th anniversary. Originating from a profound passion for accountancy, the agency has expanded its expertise across multiple sectors, consistently achieving remarkable outcomes and pioneering new solutions.
Ten Years of Growth and Success
With its roots deeply embedded in the accountancy sector, due to the director’s marketing background at an accountancy college, Whitefish Marketing has seen substantial growth. The agency now supports a wide array of businesses in achieving their marketing objectives, yet it remains dedicated to aiding accountancy practices of all scales, including those on the Accountancy Age Top 100 list.
“Our journey over the last ten years has been nothing short of remarkable,” expressed Chris Surridge, Director of Whitefish Marketing. “We’ve had the privilege of working with incredible clients, pushing the boundaries of digital marketing, and contributing to the success stories of numerous businesses.”
A Legacy of Achievement and Innovation
The commitment of Whitefish Marketing to excellence is apparent from its packed seminars at prestigious business forums like Kent 20/20 Vision and London Accountex, as well as its many awards recognising both client and agency accomplishments. These awards are a testament to the agency’s innovative approach and its dedication to delivering measurable success.
Looking forward, Whitefish Marketing aims to continue enhancing its cutting-edge marketing services for the accountancy sector. “The future is bright, and we’re excited about the opportunities to empower accountants with our digital marketing expertise further,” Chris Surridge added.
Celebrating a Future of Excellence
As it enters the next decade, Whitefish Marketing maintains its commitment to its founding principles, whilst adapting to new challenges and opportunities. “Here’s to another successful 10 years,” proclaims the team at Whitefish Marketing, poised to set new standards in the digital marketing arena.
For more information about Whitefish Marketing and their services, please visit https://www.whitefishmarketing.co.uk/ or contact us at 01303 610 331.
The London and Essex-based accountancy firm THP recently celebrated its golden anniversary with a grand event in the Members’ Dining Room at the House of Commons.
Prominent speakers at the celebration included former Department of Levelling Up minister, Paul Scully. Mr. Scully lauded THP and its clients for their entrepreneurial achievements and their contributions towards wealth generation. He concluded his commendation with a hopeful note for THP’s future, wishing them “more power to your elbow” for the forthcoming decades.
Established in 1974 by accountant Adrian Hart, who began as a sole practitioner and now serves as chairman, THP has seen significant growth over the past five decades, incorporating more than a dozen other accountancy practices. Presently, THP operates from branches in Wanstead, Sutton, Chelmsford and Saffron Walden.
Adrian Hart, addressing the audience at the celebration, remarked, “Following the upheaval of the Covid years, THP has grown from strength to strength and our 2023/24 year has seen a record number of new client instructions – pleasingly, many from our existing clients. We continue to build our team and to expand our service offerings and we are planning to grow further in the coming years.”
Mark Boulter, THP’s Managing Director, expressed, “THP has grown over the years because we always put clients first and go the extra mile to meet their needs. We’re looking forward to serving many more people from our busy branches over the next 50 years.”
If your youngster fancies the chance of walking out onto the pitch ahead of the Soccer Aid for Unicef game at Stamford Bridge, enter this competition!
Primary and secondary school pupils have the chance to unleash their creativity and compassion, to design their dream mascot ahead of this year’s match at the Chelsea ground on Sunday, June 9.
This exciting opportunity could win youngsters a place as a mascot walking out onto the pitch, or a ticket to see the game live, in person.
The Mascot Design Competition is part of the Soccer Aid for UNICEF Academy – the brand-new school’s footballing fundraiser from Soccer Aid for UNICEF – and aims to spark some friendly competition between schools, all while raising vital funds to help every child, everywhere, enjoy happy, healthy childhoods.
The UNICEF Youth Advisory Board will judge entries and are on the lookout for mascot designs that not only bring good luck to both the England and World XI FC teams but capture the heart and spirit of Soccer Aid for UNICEF: giving every child the right to play.
Sarah Wren, head of Soccer Aid for UNICEF, said: “We’re so excited to launch this Mascot Design Competition to inspire children to embrace their creativity, regardless of ability. We’re encouraging kids across the UK to get playful, colourful, and have a blast experimenting with different mascot styles – all in the spirit of supporting Soccer Aid for UNICEF. Together, we’re not just creating mascots, we’re raising essential funds for children around the world to give them the best start in life”.
The 2024 event will air live and exclusively on ITV1, STV and ITVX.
Rejuvence Clinic, renowned for its innovative aesthetic and medical treatments, is delighted to announce its move to a new state-of-the-art facility, marking a pivotal advancement in client service and care capabilities. Clients are now welcome at the clinic’s new premises located at Ground Floor, Commercial Unit, Block E, 30 Indescon Square, London E14 9DR, United Kingdom.
Elevating Client Experiences in a New Era
Previously situated at 797 Commercial Road, London, E14 7HG, the clinic has relocated to a more strategic and contemporary venue in Indescon Square, close to Canary Wharf. The new site has been designed with the comfort and convenience of clients in mind, offering improved access and superior transport connections.
A Word from Our Founder
“Our move to Indescon Square is more than just a change of scenery,” declared Dr Ghani, Director of Rejuvence Clinic. “It represents our commitment to enhancing our clients’ experiences, providing them with the latest in aesthetic and medical innovation in a space that is both inspiring and welcoming.”
Our Commitment to the Community
This move also signifies our renewed dedication to the local community. We are excited to engage with and contribute to the lively Indescon Square area, working alongside local enterprises and residents.
What This Means for Our Clients
The clinic’s new location boasts top-of-the-line treatment rooms, an inviting reception area, and private consultation spaces, all designed to ensure a comfortable and confidential client experience. We have managed a seamless transition to the new address, maintaining continuity in all scheduled appointments and services.
Join Us at Our New Home
We invite you to visit Rejuvence Clinic at its new location and experience the enhanced facilities and offerings. Whether you are familiar with our clinic or new to our services, our team is eager to welcome you and assist with your aesthetic and medical needs.
Iconic Digital, a leading force in digital marketing, clinched the title of Best Overall Business at this year’s European BizX Awards held in Liverpool. This prestigious recognition celebrates Iconic Digital’s unwavering commitment to innovation, stellar customer service, and sustainable growth.
Steve Pailthorpe, Chief Executive at the digital marketing agency in London, expressed his delight following the win: “We are truly humbled to receive this recognition from ActionCOACH at the BizX Awards. This accolade is a testament to our team’s hard work, dedication, and the innovative strategies we have implemented over the last 13 years. At Iconic Digital, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of digital marketing to provide outstanding results for our clients. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our team, clients, and partners for making this possible.”
The award, presented by Brad Sugars, founder and CEO of ActionCOACH, acknowledged Iconic Digital for their role in setting the benchmark for business excellence and innovation. “Iconic Digital’s success at the BizX Awards underscores the impact of effective leadership and a clear vision. Steve and his team are exemplary figures in showing what businesses can achieve with the right strategies and mindset.”
Additionally, James Vincent, host of the BizX podcast, commended Iconic Digital on their success, noting the company’s significant influence on the industry and its role in advancing digital marketing. ‘Iconic Digital have grown to be respected as the UK premier marketing agency following winning several accolades this year including SEO Agency of the Year. What sets them apart is the way that they guarantee their results and consistently deliver for their clients.’
The European BizX Awards are well-known for honouring the best in business, assembling industry leaders and pioneers from across the European SME landscape. Iconic Digital’s accolade at the awards not only solidifies its status in the digital marketing field but also marks an exciting phase of future developments.
Under an obscure number plate rule, drivers face fines of up to £1,000, with related offences increasing by as much as 318% across the UK.
Number plates play a critical role in vehicle identification, ensuring each vehicle is distinguishable for data tracking, storage, and processing. The DVLA insists on strict adherence to number plate display regulations.
Major offences entail either removing or not displaying number plates. Other violations include rearranging the letters and numbers or obscuring parts of the plate.
Plates4Less submitted a Freedom of Information request to most of the police forces across the UK to find out how often number plate offences are committed, establish if there is a trend and find out what is being done to combat these issues.
The shocking statistics showed that some areas have confirmed they have seen a huge increase in all number plate violations, such as an increase of 318% in the Greater Manchester area (between 2019-2022), which of course is extremely concerning to motorists. Number plate violations reported include “not displaying a front or rear plate”, “obscuring the registration mark” and “failure to conform to number plate regulations”.
West Mercia statistics show that the numbers for “Drive a vehicle when the registration mark fails to conform with regulations” went up by 18% from 230 in 2021, to 271 in 2022.
Whilst not all areas are affected equally by number plate violations there seems to be a growing trend for motorists in major UK cities failing to display a front number plate.
Merseyside saw increases of 18% regarding vehicles “failing to display a front number plate”. Merseyside is not alone with Humberside, Wiltshire & Essex having also seen rises in the levels of motorists failing to display their front number plate.
However, not all areas have reported an increase. For example, West Midlands recorded 57 instances of driving without a front number plate in 2021, and only 34 in 2022. Similarly, Hertfordshire Constabulary’s figures for this crime have been dropping since 2020. This could indicate crimes dropping, or just less drivers getting caught.
With an increased reliance on Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to police our roads, experts at www.Plates4Less.co.uk say that they expect to see more policing of number plate regulations.
Why do cars have no front number plates and do rules apply to ‘supercars’?
Some drivers will intentionally remove front plates, or refuse to get them, because they worry about ruining the aerodynamic aesthetic of their vehicles. This is more commonplace with drivers of supercars.
This has been an ongoing issue for many years. In 2018, the Daily Mail reported that “Dozens of wealthy owners living in the most exclusive areas of London have dispensed with plates on their Lamborghinis and Ferraris.”
Antony Clark, an expert at Plates4Less, made the point that these cases seem to be on the rise with police forces across the UK posting about it daily.
He said: “In the case of Supercars, the rules do still apply to them but it seems that a monetary fine is not a deterrent. These consequences are not harsh enough to people who can afford such expensive cars.
“If we want to see a decrease in number plate crime, authorities might need to consider alternatives, such as points on a licence or detaining vehicles.”
While DVLA are able to enforce up to a £1,000 fine, smaller fines and requests that the criminal simply change their plates are far more common, which may be contributing to the spread of number plate crime in the UK.
How to know if your number plate is breaking the law?
Legally, a driver needs to ensure their vehicle is road legal before driving, and this includes checking the number plates. It is not a defence to say that the plate was on the car when you purchased it from its previous owner, as you could be fined for failing to fix the issue.
If you are driving with a second-hand vehicle and therefore plate, or even just sharing a vehicle, then it’s worth checking your number plate legality. Even if you got your plate from a reputable local dealership, your car recently passed an MOT, or it is a work vehicle, it could still be breaking the law as many dealers and testers are not stringent with the law.
Antony added: “Don’t risk a £1000 fine, check your number plate is valid before the next time that you drive.”
According to the Government rules: “Number plates (also known as licence plates) must show your registration number correctly. You cannot rearrange letters or numbers, or alter them so that they’re hard to read.”
To help drivers avoid being fined by the police for breaching number plate rules, www.Plates4Less.co.uk have developed a number plate checklist. It outlines the most commonly broken rules associated with number plates and allows drivers to be sure they are not unknowingly committing an offence. To find out more, visit www.plates4less.co.uk/is-my-number-plate-legal.
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