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London Gatwick is set to play a pivotal role in helping the Government achieve its bold target of welcoming 50 million international visitors per year to the UK. The airport is awaiting a decision from the Government on its proposal to bring its existing Northern Runway into routine use alongside its Main Runway. The project represents a £2.2 billion shovel-ready, privately financed investment which could be operational by the turn of the decade, and would enable London Gatwick to further support inbound tourism beyond 2030. London Gatwick’s plans align with the Government's vision for the tourism sector, announced by Tourism Minister Sir Chris Bryant at the Tourism Alliance Conference in November. Sir Chris further emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Government and the tourism industry to achieve the 50 million target. UKinbound is the UK’s only trade association dedicated to inbound tourism, and represent more than 400 businesses across the sector. Joss Croft OBE, CEO, UKinbound said: “Inbound tourism to the UK was worth £32bn to our economy in 2024. London Gatwick plays a vital role in this industry, delivering many of these visitors to the UK, and drives significant revenue into the whole of the country." “Growth of the airport will result in better ability for potential customers to visit and with expanded capacity comes the potential for new routes, including from high-value markets such as North America, Asia and the Middle East.” Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said: “If the Government is to reach its target it is vital we offer more choice to passengers to enter the UK. London Gatwick can play a crucial role in shaping the UK's tourism landscape, supporting the Government’s vision and fostering economic growth and job creation across the whole region.” London Gatwick’s future growth plans, including the Northern Runway, which could be operational by the turn of the decade, are forecast to boost the number of international visitors arriving via the airport. Research from Oxford Economics shows the number of international visitors through Gatwick will incrementally grow from 5.6m out of 46.6m total passengers in 2019, to 9m by 2038, a 61% increase, contributing to the Government’s 2030 target. This includes an increase of 1.6m visitors compared to a scenario without the Northern Runway, underlining the critical importance of the project in supporting the Government's ambitious goals. The increase in international visitors is also anticipated to support the generation of £8.74bn of Gross Value Added (GVA) from London Gatwick to the UK alone through increased spending by 2038. This figure represents nearly £2bn more than what would be achieved without the development.

Bradley and Barney Walsh are back on the road together, this time experiencing the cultures of beautiful Asia on another epic adventure. In this brand-new six-part series for ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player, the pair will take in the sights and flavours of Japan and Thailand. But, as ever in Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad, Bradley won’t quite be getting the rest and relaxation he is hoping for as Barney is planning a packed itinerary full of adrenaline rushing challenges to push his dad to the limit. Bradley Walsh said: “It’s so good to be back on the road again with Barney. We really do have the best time but I’m not quite sure what he has up his sleeve on this trip, which is slightly worrying…” Barney Walsh said: “I’m excited to get stuck into this new adventure with my dad, and get him to experience the local cultures in Japan and Thailand. It’s going to be an exciting and adrenaline fuelled road trip with lots of fun and laughter.” Sue Murphy Head of Factual Entertainment ITV said: “We're thrilled that our very own father and son dynamic duo are back on the road, this time unleashing their inimitable charm onto unsuspecting Asia, as Barney continues to push Brad way beyond his comfort zones." Dan Baldwin, Managing Director at Hungry Bear Media said: “Bradley and Barney reflect so many father and son relationships up and down the country. This trip is one of the funniest, dangerous and most heart-warming yet." "There are many different travelogues on TV but nothing quite compares to Breaking Dad.” Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad series 6 is commissioned for ITV1 and ITVX by Sue Murphy, Head of Factual Entertainment ITV. The series is produced by Hungry Bear Media. The series editor is Reshmi Bajnath.

Nearly half of UK workers are prioritising landing a new role this year according to research by recruitment specialist Pertemps which showed that 47 per cent said a new role was a goal for 2025. Meanwhile, 26 per cent said they wanted to get a better work/life balance, 19 per cent wanted to learn new skills and eight per cent said a promotion was their top target before the end of the year. Tracy Evans, Director of HR and Quality at West Midlands-based Pertemps, said: “We have just under half of people saying they want to move jobs this year. That is a significant number and maybe suggests that employers still have work to do on their offering for workers." “We know money will likely remain the top motivator for most people, but it’s things like training and development, career advancement, work-life balance and benefits packages that come with the pay check that people need to make them feel settled and happy in the work.” A recent report showed that flexible working and enhanced sick pay were the most desired benefits, with many willing to skip a pay rise to get them. Pertemps has appeared in an annual UK list of best companies to work for for the past 18 years.

The sandwich, in its myriad forms, occupies a central role in British culinary and cultural life. Named after John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, this simple yet versatile creation has evolved from an aristocratic convenience to a staple of daily life. In the UK, the sandwich is more than just a meal option—it is a symbol of practicality, tradition, and creativity together with an enduring place in the British diet. Historical Significance The origins of the sandwich in Britain trace back to the 18th century, when the Earl of Sandwich is said to have requested meat placed between slices of bread to allow him to eat without interrupting his gambling. This innovation quickly gained popularity among the aristocracy and, eventually, the working classes. By the 19th century, sandwiches became a convenient and affordable meal for industrial workers, who could eat them on the go during their short lunch breaks. Sandwiches also played a significant role in wartime Britain. During World War II, the rationing of food led to the creation of simple, economical sandwich fillings that utilised available resources, such as Spam or cheese spread. These innovations highlighted the adaptability of the sandwich to changing times and circumstances, cementing its place in British food culture. Economic Impact The sandwich is a cornerstone of the UK's food industry. The British Sandwich Association estimates that over 11 billion sandwiches are consumed annually in the UK, generating a market worth over £8 billion. Pre-packaged sandwiches, first introduced in the 1980s, revolutionized the food-to-go sector, making them an indispensable part of modern retail. Supermarkets, cafes, and dedicated sandwich shops have built thriving businesses around the demand for sandwiches. Popular chains like Pret and Greggs owe much of their success to their innovative sandwich offerings. Furthermore, the industry supports a wide range of jobs, from bakers and sandwich makers to delivery drivers and retail staff. The sandwich's economic significance extends to agriculture, as it drives demand for bread, meats, vegetables, and dairy products, benefitting British farmers and suppliers. Cultural Relevance The sandwich reflects the diversity and creativity of British society. Regional specialties, such as the Cornish pasty (a cousin of the sandwich) or the bacon bap, showcase local flavours and traditions. Meanwhile, the rise of multiculturalism has introduced new flavours and styles, such as the popularity of wraps, baguettes, and paninis, reflecting global influences on the British palate. The sandwich also serves as a cultural equaliser. Whether consumed by a construction worker during a break or by an executive at their desk, sandwiches are a unifying element of daily life. This accessibility underscores their appeal: they are inexpensive, portable, and endlessly customisable. Iconic combinations like the cucumber sandwich, a symbol of British afternoon tea, or the hearty Ploughman’s sandwich, evoke nostalgia and tradition too. The Sandwich in Modern Britain Today, the sandwich continues to evolve to meet the needs of contemporary consumers. Health-conscious individuals can opt for whole-grain bread, vegan fillings, or gluten-free options. Gourmet sandwiches, featuring artisanal ingredients and creative pairings, have elevated the humble sandwich into a sophisticated culinary experience. Seasonal and sustainable fillings are increasingly popular, reflecting growing environmental awareness. The sandwich also remains an essential component of British social rituals. From picnic lunches to tea parties, the sandwich is a constant presence. Events like British Sandwich Week celebrate this beloved food, highlighting its versatility and enduring popularity. The sandwich is far more than a convenient meal; it is a cultural icon that reflects the history, economy, and diversity of the UK. Its adaptability and accessibility have ensured its survival and success across centuries. As Britain continues to embrace new culinary trends and challenges, the humble sandwich remains a symbol of ingenuity and resilience. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, packed in a lunchbox, or picked up on the go, the sandwich is, and always will be, a cornerstone of British life.

GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent hire company, proudly announces a remarkable milestone as its charitable foundation, GAP Giving, surpasses £1 million in donations to charities across the UK. Since its inception in 2015, GAP Giving has contributed an impressive £1,122,553, benefiting over 1,000 charities nationwide, ranging from national organisations to smaller, local charities. Established in 1969 by Gordon Anderson, GAP Hire Solutions has long upheld a culture of giving back to local communities. In 2025, the company celebrates the 10th anniversary of GAP Giving, reinforcing its commitment to philanthropy. Through this initiative, GAP donates 0.5% of its annual profits to charities chosen by its employees, ensuring support reaches causes that matter most to its workforce. Douglas Anderson, Joint Managing Director, commented: “Giving back to the community is something that has always been very important to GAP. It’s the reason why we introduced GAP Giving and all of our employees are encouraged to participate by nominating a charity that is close to their heart.” GAP Hire Solutions empowers its 2,000+ employees to take an active role in charitable giving. Team members are encouraged to nominate charities that have made a meaningful impact on their lives, leading to direct donations through the foundation. Additionally, GAP Giving’s ‘Charity of the Month’ scheme enables each region, division, and Head Office department to select a charity to receive a £1,000 donation. Furthermore, through the GAP Match initiative, the company matches funds raised by employees in sponsored events, up to £1,500. Moreover, as part of GAP’s commitment to creating a sustainable impact on both its employees and the wider community, every GAP employee is entitled to take up to one day away from work to volunteer at local charities and community initiatives. As GAP Giving marks this significant milestone, the company remains dedicated to its mission of supporting charities both big and small across the UK, strengthening its legacy of corporate social responsibility.

Research unveiled today has revealed that almost a third (30%) of marketers at global consumer brands admit they don’t yet have a social commerce strategy, despite the growth of social search. Although 86% of marketers say Google is still the number one place where customers search for their brand online, Instagram and TikTok are closing fast at 70% and 44%, respectively. For those that have a social commerce strategy, Instagram was first choice, employed by 40% of brands and ahead of the 34% who use their own e-commerce platforms. Nearly half said they prefer leveraging social platforms like TikTok and Instagram with commerce features already built in. The survey was carried out by SAMY Alliance, the social-first digital marketing agency, among senior marketers at 70 global consumer brands. It also found that Instagram is still the overall marketing channel of choice, as one in four (25%) plan to devote at least a quarter of their entire annual marketing budget to the platform in 2025. The analysis also found that short-form video content is seen as the cornerstone of marketers’ planning efforts for 2025. More than two-thirds think Instagram Reels (69%) and TikTok video (66%) will gain further prominence on social media over the coming year. Patricia Aragón, Global Director of eCommerce Emerging Solutions & Innovation at SAMY Alliance, notes: “Instagram is clearly still the channel that consumer marketers feel will best resonate with audiences. And the rise of short-form video highlights how bite-sized clips captivate audiences with quick, impactful bursts of joy and entertainment, requiring minimal time commitment. We’re seeing more and more focus on ‘shoppertainment’." “However, social commerce strategies will only succeed if they are humanised and handled correctly. Brands must remember their goal is to connect with consumers authentically, build trust, and provide an experience that adds value." “The fact that nearly a third of consumer brands admit to lack a social commerce strategy, when you can see the growth of platforms such as TikTok Shop, is astounding.” The research also highlighted that many brands are still struggling with online community management, a cornerstone of effective social media strategy. Only a quarter (25%) say their brand engages in frequent, proactive interactions with their community. Aragón adds: “When used effectively, online community management can increase brand loyalty and grow authentic connections with followers, making it a vital tool in a brand’s marketing toolbox. Community managers act as brand ambassadors, engaging in discussions with followers, connecting with customers, and creating shareable content." “Brands that sleep on community interactions are missing out on algorithm-boosting engagement, customer feedback, brand loyalty, sales, and product awareness.” Download the full report here

John Lewis has partnered with Rough Trade, the pioneering independent music retailer, to offer customers the chance to buy a range of iconic albums at John Lewis stores and online from later this month. With sales of turntables and record players up 17 per cent compared with five years ago, there is strong demand from music-fans for the much-loved format. John Lewis has increased the range of turntables by 46 per cent over the same period. The new vinyl assortment is a carefully curated selection of old and modern classics that pay homage to Rough Trade's past, and includes albums from artists including Nirvana, Radiohead and Marvin Gaye. Jason Billings-Cray, buyer at John Lewis, said: "We're excited to be part of the vinyl revival, partnering with Rough Trade to bring vinyl records back to our stores. It’s clear that there is a strong market for the format - with both our turntable range and sales up considerably in recent years. We're confident that this new album assortment will be a smash hit with our customers." Lawrence Montgomery, Managing Director at Rough Trade added: “At Rough Trade, we’ve been so thrilled to see the growing appreciation for physical music among a diverse audience of music fans. Vinyl buyers are embracing a wide range of genres and styles, reflecting an exciting enthusiasm for discovery. Importantly, the vinyl resurgence continues to deepen the connection between artists and fans, offering a tangible and meaningful way to celebrate the music they love. We look forward to sharing this vibrant culture with John Lewis customers." John Lewis currently sells nearly 20 different turntables online and in store. The vinyl records will be available online at johnlewis.com and in select John Lewis stores, including Peter Jones, Bluewater, Cheadle, and Edinburgh.

A Nottingham family business that set up an alternative education establishment for teens excluded from mainstream schooling is celebrating its first anniversary and its own success story. Safe Haven Support Care & Education Group launched SHAPE (Safe Haven Alternative Provision of Excellence) on Alfreton Road in Radford, to improve the prospects of 13-16 year-olds who had been permanently excluded from school. In Nottingham City, some 204 young people were permanently excluded from school in the academic year 2023/2024, according to internal data from Unity. Just a year later, the provision has doubled its staffing, achieved up to 95 per cent attendance from its pupils, and now has plans to expand its venture to a second Nottingham campus. Shamraiz Younas, Group CEO of Safe Haven Support Care & Education Group, said: “Our success is really the success of the young people who engage with our teaching methods and commit to enhancing their own futures. Getting students back into the classroom and finding their pathway is our primary aim and our success marker.” Figures from the Department for Education (DfE) showed that Nottingham has one of the worst student attendance records in the country. At 7.3 per cent persistent absence, it is the highest in the East Midlands and above the national average of 6.7 per cent. Nottingham is one of only 10 areas across the country to benefit from a £15m government fund to help children and young people back into the classroom. Shamraiz said that SHAPE students had excellent figures for 85 per cent attendance with some students achieving 95 per cent attendance. He attributed the success to the teaching staff’s engagement with the young people and teaching subjects that maximise their skill sets. The Pearson-accredited centre teaches core subjects of Maths and English with pupils offered additional GCSEs and vocational courses including Science, Digital Media, Geography, Art and Design, as well as Life Skills and tutorials on topics such as living independently. The provision has links with Denewood Academy, in Forest Road West, and is working to build relationships with other Nottinghamshire Trusts and educational facilities. It also works in partnership with Urban Spirits recording studio, giving creative students time in the Nottingham-based studio. Louise Smith, Head of Provision, said: “We are so proud of our pupils and what they are achieving. We believe education is more than just lessons - it is about growth, creativity and unlocking potential.” There are currently 33 students on the roll. The facility has the capacity to take 55 students from years 8 to 11 (Key Stage 3 and 4). Most students attend on a part-time basis, though SHAPE also has capacity for four full-time students. Louise said: “Our students are achieving great things. One of our shining stars is pupil KJM. His passion for creating and learning embodies everything we strive to cultivate in our students." “Whether he’s freestyling raps, expressing himself through art, or excelling in group discussions, his energy is infectious, his confidence inspiring, and his social awareness unmatched." “His 'can-do and will-try' mentality, balanced with creativity, maturity and always recognising how to surround himself with the right influences makes us so excited for his future.” Since SHAPE’s launch a year ago, staffing levels have doubled. Eight full-time staff members are now employed following promotions in recognition for their dedication and commitment to the school. Shamraiz has plans to continue the organisation’s success and its expansion. The current campus in Alfreton Road includes classrooms, a Common Room and multi use space. Building on this solid base, a second Nottingham campus is expected to launch for the academic year 2025/2026. Shamraiz said the team was also working towards gaining Independent School Status in September 2025. He said: “It is tremendously rewarding to help young people achieve their full potential and see them engaging in education. I have many instances of young people saying that they would love to attend SHAPE five days a week if they could.” The provision celebrated its first year with a party and cake for students and staff.

Brits are being urged to enjoy a “small day out” this half term as three in five small independent museums fear closure amid declining footfall and revenue, according to a new study by GoDaddy in partnership with Kids in Museums*. Research conducted among small, independent museums – those with fewer than 100,000 annual visitors – found that two-thirds (64%) say the rising cost of living has led to a decline in visitor numbers. Decreased visitor spend (61%) and fewer donations (58%) are furthering the financial strain. These challenges underscore the vulnerability of small museums, which rely heavily on community engagement and local tourism to sustain their operations. This research from GoDaddy highlights the critical role that small businesses, including museums, play in local economies. Small and microbusinesses, such as independent museums, are key drivers of economic growth – creating an average of five jobs per resident – and strengthening community ties. GoDaddy and Kids in Museums launch “Small Days Out” To encourage families to go out and support their local museums over the February half-term, GoDaddy has partnered with Kids in Museums to launch the “Small Days Out” campaign. SmallDaysOut.co.uk houses a list of museums, curated by Kids in Museums, recognised for offering families a great affordable day out. One of them, the London Museum of Water and Steam, will be hosting an installation of a miniature tourist kiosk, complete with tiny pamphlets and posters showcasing the breadth and brilliance of the UK’s small museum community. Almost nine in ten (89%) small museums say school holidays are vital to their income generation and, on average, a quarter (28%) of annual revenue comes outside of term time. The vast majority (92%) of small museums are encouraging family visits this half term with special discounts, events, or activities. Empowering small businesses like independent museums through comprehensive solutions for digital success, such as GoDaddy Airo®, becomes increasingly vital as the UK continues to navigate economic uncertainties. GoDaddy’s Venture Forward data shows 45% of small businesses surveyed rate digital skills as a challenge**. To tackle this, GoDaddy is giving back to these small independent museums by providing access and training to use Airo, its AI-powered experience, as part of the “Small Days Out” initiative, helping stimulate local tourism and economic activity. The sector has faced significant challenges Four in five (78%) small museums report that this has been the most challenging period the sector has faced and over half (58%) say overall income has not returned to its pre-Covid levels. Consequently, three in five (58%) museums said they fear closure, and three quarters (75%) are concerned for the future of the wider sector. To protect their museum’s future, one in five (22%) have had to reduce programming and a similar number (17%) said they have reduced the days they open. Alison Bowyer, Executive Director, Kids in Museums commented: “This is the most challenging period for the sector that we have ever seen. In contrast to many of our European neighbours, footfall hasn’t returned to pre-Covid levels and museums are contending with many challenges. Rising costs, reduced income, and cuts to funding are all adding to the burden." In the toughest of times, small museums have continued to offer families a warm welcome, fun creative activities, and worked hard to be accessible to all. They are wonderful attractions that have so much to offer everyone in their communities. We urge people across the country visit their local museum this half term and see for themselves that they can have an enjoyable, affordable day out on their doorstep.” Hannah Harte, Museum Director, London Museum of Water and Steam commented: “Museums like ours are valuable community resources, bringing topics like history, science, and engineering to life. School holidays are essential to our survival, often doubling our visitor numbers compared to quieter months. Despite our best efforts, footfall remains 20-25% below pre-pandemic levels, and rising operational costs make it harder than ever to keep our doors open.” Andrew Gradon, Head of GoDaddy UK and Ireland, said: “Small museums are not only part of the UK’s cultural heritage, they are also microbusinesses that play a vital role in local economies. Our data shows that each additional digital microbusiness in a community is associated with an increase of around five jobs per resident, as well as an increase in average annual wages." “We know that Brits are as passionate as we are about supporting independent businesses and we hope as many as possible will enjoy a “Small Day Out” at their local museum this half term.”

Atlassian Williams Racing’s 2025 challenger, the FW47, has made its on-track debut, successfully completing 200km at the Silverstone circuit. Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz shared driving duties, experiencing this year’s car for the first time. The day began with a special live broadcast, streamed globally, where the team unveiled the FW47 and celebrated the team’s new title partnership with Atlassian. Williams welcomed partners, media and 47 loyal Williams fans from across the globe, who were selected from more than 17,000 competition entrants. Atlassian appeared on the car for the first time in a one-off bespoke design, with the official 2025 race livery set to be revealed on 18th February at the F1 75 Live Launch at London’s O2 Arena. The partnership deal is the biggest in Williams’ 48-year history and demonstrates another vote of confidence for the team’s mission to return to the front of the grid. Carlos Sainz took to the track at 10:05am, putting in his first lap in the FW47 livestreamed to the world. Despite typical cold and windy February conditions at Silverstone, Carlos successfully completed all his planned laps with no issues, before Alex took to the wheel for the session after lunch, enjoying some brief afternoon sun. James Vowles, Team Principal: “The first run of the FW47 is the result of tens of thousands of hours of work and a moment of immense pride that symbolises the progress we are making at Atlassian Williams Racing. We rolled out the car at the precise moment we said we would, on live television, with a formidable new driver line-up and a fantastic new title partner in Atlassian. There is a lot to look forward to in 2025 and I can’t wait to go racing next month.” Dave Robson, Chief Engineer: “Today we launched the FW47 at Silverstone and had the opportunity to shakedown the new car and to check that the systems are behaving as intended." "Carlos and Alex shared the driving through the day, and between them were able to complete the permitted 200km without issue. The car ran well and, having completed a few careful laps to check that everything was working correctly, we were able to push the car hard and confirm that there were no major problems. Inevitably, we found a few very minor issues, but these will be quickly resolved before we arrive in Bahrain, and they didn’t affect the running today." "In the cold conditions, and using the Pirelli promotional tyres, it is impossible to assess the performance of the FW47, however, the telemetry and driver feedback suggests that the basic characteristics of the car are very close to expectation and there are no immediate handling concerns." "We now have a few days to use the experience from today to finalise our testing plan for Bahrain. Now that we are confident that the car will run well, we are in a great position to maximise our time in Bahrain and to ensure that we arrive in Melbourne ready to start the 2025 season strongly.” Carlos Sainz: “The first 100 kilometres in the FW47 are done and it has been a smooth day. We managed to complete all the run plan without any issues, and I got my first proper feeling for the car. It was a bold statement from Williams to show the first lap of this new car to our partners, the media, and our fans, and it went very well. Good job to everyone back at Grove – now we're ready for the season to start." Alex Albon: “I'm really happy. Normally this weather makes the car feel good, and it did today. We won't know for sure what the car is like until Bahrain, but the car was reliable, and we put on a great show for our partners and fans, so I hope everyone enjoyed that. Roll on Bahrain!”

In recent years, sushi has taken the United Kingdom by storm, and its popularity shows no sign of waning. Once considered exotic and unfamiliar, sushi has become a staple of the UK's culinary landscape, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Why the growing demand and what are some of the factors contributing to the growing demand for sushi in the UK. Health Consciousness One of the primary reasons behind the surge in sushi consumption is the increasing health consciousness among the British population. Sushi is often perceived as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food, thanks to its emphasis on fresh ingredients and minimal processing. It offers a balanced meal with lean protein, vegetables, and heart-healthy fats in the form of fish like salmon and avocado. With more people prioritizing their health and wellness, sushi has become a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without feeling guilty. Culinary Diversity The UK has embraced culinary diversity with open arms, and sushi's arrival is a testament to this. Sushi restaurants have cropped up across the country, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From traditional Japanese sushi bars to modern fusion restaurants, there's something for everyone. This culinary diversity allows people to explore different flavours and textures, making sushi a thrilling gastronomic adventure and something that appeals to all generations, young and old alike. Social Media & Food Culture The rise of social media platforms has played a pivotal role in the popularity of sushi in the UK. Instagram, in particular, has become a hub for food enthusiasts, who eagerly share their sushi experiences through mouth-watering photos and videos. These posts not only showcase the visual appeal of sushi but also inspire others to try it for themselves. As a result, sushi has become a trendy and Instagram-worthy meal that many want to savour and share. Accessibility & Convenience Sushi's accessibility has significantly contributed to its growing demand. Supermarkets and convenience stores now stock pre-packaged sushi, making it a convenient choice for those looking for a quick and nutritious meal on the go. The availability of sushi delivery services has also made it easier for people to satisfy their sushi cravings without leaving their homes. This convenience factor has led to an increase in sushi consumption among busy urban dwellers. Environmental Considerations In an era where sustainability is at the forefront of global consciousness, sushi's emphasis on seafood sourcing and responsible fishing practices has resonated with environmentally conscious consumers. Sushi restaurants in the UK often prioritise sustainable seafood choices and promote eco-friendly dining practices. This aligns with the values of many consumers who want to enjoy their favourite dishes while minimizing their environmental footprint. Cultural Appeal The appeal of sushi goes beyond its taste and nutritional benefits. For many, sushi represents an opportunity to connect with Japanese culture and traditions. Sushi restaurants often offer an immersive dining experience, complete with sushi chefs showcasing their culinary artistry. This cultural aspect adds a layer of intrigue and sophistication to the sushi dining experience, making it more than just a meal; it's an event. The growing demand for sushi in the UK reflects not only changing dietary preferences but also the evolving culinary landscape of the nation. With its emphasis on health, diversity, accessibility, and environmental responsibility, sushi has successfully carved a place for itself in the hearts and palates of the British population. As the sushi sensation continues to flourish, it's safe to say that this Japanese delicacy has become an integral part of the UK's food culture.

Leading UK technology consultancy highlights why empathy and business-led solutions are creating success beyond their cookie-cutter, bloated approach counterparts. As heightened inflation and economic uncertainty around the UK persists, the Management Consultancies Association (MCA) have reduced growth predictions for consultancies. Originally forecasted at 11%, the MCA now predicts a 6.4% in 2025 and a small increase of 8.7% in 2026, suggesting trends including AI and digital transformation may take the backseat in business priorities. “It’s easy to focus on efficiency and overlook the importance of human connection, but in today’s whirlwind of business hustle, prioritising empathy can add to your customer service strategy and elevate your consultancy service to the next level,” said Jon Bance, Chief Customer Officer at Leading Resolutions . “Far from a soft approach, empathy can provide the much-needed antidote to uncertainty many companies may feel when working with larger consultancies - while simultaneously boosting engagement and creating a competitive advantage.” With the growth predictions insight, Jon believes that the return of investment of empathy will outweigh the benefits of technology solutions when it comes to efficient client service and loyalty. “Consultants must be able to provide expert opinions and strategies to mitigate potential issues but must first understand what is being asked of them and discover the ‘why’ behind the project. This is where empathy becomes a paramount characteristic in being a great consultant.” “By understanding the driving forces behind customer needs, firms can effectively showcase the value of their product or service. When clients feel consultants truly understand their situation and are working to achieve their goals, they are more likely to be open and honest in their communication." “This not only leads to a stronger rapport but also a more productive relationship between consultants and customers with increased alignment on goals and reduced conflict overall. Teams can offer tailored services to meet their specific needs – something that can’t be copied by a competitor or replaced by technology." “Whilst larger consultancies can cover large-scale operations and multi-functional issues, a top-down approach can misunderstand the best outcomes for businesses on an individual level." "An independent consultancy can offer unbiased, client-centric advice without conflicts of interest. This more agile approach enables the delivery of high-quality services while developing closer client relationships that add to their appeal, ensuring we give tailored advice that aligns with your needs.” Jon continues by describing how the barrage of technology and AI can’t mute out the importance of the human touch in service delivery. “It's easy to get derailed by data, AI, and new technology. While such tools can enhance efficiency, they can never replace the personal touch that comes from a human connection. Experienced firms can integrate their tech intelligence with customer needs to set the business apart in an age of increasingly automated customer service. This empathy-led transformation means examining how to solve problems with human beings at the center and technology is the enabler.” “In a world full of options, building trust is what will bring clients back to your firm. Businesses aren’t happy with feeling side-lined by getting invested in “The A team” only to be switched for the “C team” after 3 months." "Matching experience of the digital technology landscape with an approach tied directly to that business’ culture and goals is key for effective technology consultancy that lasts for the future.”