Business

Airbus has finalised a major deal to acquire parts of Spirit AeroSystems’ UK business, including the historic Short Brothers factory in Belfast and key operations in Prestwick, as it moves to secure critical components for its aircraft production lines.

The agreement follows Boeing’s $4.7 billion takeover of Spirit last year, a move aimed at reinforcing its supply chain. However, the complex web of Spirit’s commitments to both Boeing and Airbus required months of delicate negotiations to untangle.

Under the terms announced, Airbus will assume control of the Belfast facility producing wings and fuselage sections for the A220 — Airbus’s 130-seater jet — as well as the Prestwick site, where components for the A320 and A350 programmes are manufactured. Additional Spirit sites in the United States, France and Morocco are also included in the deal.

The transfer of these assets further cements the UK’s role as a global centre of excellence for Airbus wing production, joining its major plant at Broughton in north Wales and its design and engineering operations in Filton, near Bristol.

However, the future remains uncertain for many of the 3,500 staff at Spirit’s Belfast operations. Trade unions warned that up to 2,000 workers face ongoing uncertainty, particularly those working on non-Airbus contracts.

Airbus will directly take on around 1,000 workers involved in producing A220 wings, while it seeks a third-party supplier to take over the fuselage operations involving approximately 500 staff. Meanwhile, employees involved in maintenance, repair and non-Airbus manufacturing for clients such as Rolls-Royce and Bombardier are expected to remain under Boeing’s ownership until a new buyer is found.

At Prestwick, Airbus is taking control of 1,150 workers supporting its A320 and A350 supply chains, although it hopes this arrangement will be temporary until another aerospace manufacturer can be found to acquire the facility.

As part of the transaction, Airbus will receive $439 million in compensation but has agreed to provide $200 million in credit lines to support investments in the newly acquired businesses.

“Airbus aims to ensure stability of supply for its commercial aircraft programmes through a more sustainable way forward, both operationally and financially, for key Airbus work packages,” the company said in a statement. An official added that the focus was on securing activities that are vital to Airbus’s current production ramp-up.

The Belfast factory became a cornerstone of Airbus’s A220 programme when it acquired the struggling C-Series jet from Bombardier and rebranded it under the Airbus name.

News of the deal was well received by investors, with Airbus shares rising by €3.72, or 2.7 per cent, to €144.32.

Read more:
Airbus finalises deal for Spirit plants in Belfast and Prestwick amid supply chain reshuffle

HSBC has set aside $876 million to cover expected bad loans, warning of growing risks from President Trump’s escalating trade war and protectionist policies that are disrupting global commerce.

In its first-quarter results, the FTSE 100-listed bank revealed that $150 million of the provision was linked directly to “deterioration in the forward economic outlook” caused by sweeping new US tariffs. The move weighed on the bank’s performance, with pre-tax profits falling to $9.5 billion from $12.65 billion a year earlier, when HSBC had benefited from the one-off sale of its Canadian business.

Despite the drop, HSBC’s results still came in ahead of City analysts’ expectations of $7.8 billion. However, the bank cautioned that it could face an additional $500 million in credit losses under “plausible downside scenarios that model significantly higher tariffs, and related impacts on growth, policy rates and inflation”.

The warnings reflect HSBC’s unique vulnerability to the fracturing global trade order. Although headquartered in London today, HSBC was founded in Hong Kong 160 years ago and has long served as a financial bridge between East and West. Hong Kong remains its single largest market, and any breakdown in trade flows between China and the United States risks destabilising its business model.

“The macroeconomic environment is facing heightened uncertainty, in particular from protectionist trade policies, creating volatility in both economic forecasts and financial markets and adversely impacting consumer and business sentiment,” the bank said. “Supporting our clients through this volatile period is our top priority.”

The intensifying trade tensions are among the first major challenges facing Georges Elhedery, HSBC’s new chief executive, who took over in September. Elhedery is also overseeing a major restructuring, aiming to slash $1.5 billion in costs by the end of next year—a plan expected to result in thousands of job losses.

Despite the turbulence, HSBC sought to reassure investors by announcing a $3 billion share buyback and declaring an interim dividend of 10 cents a share, equivalent to a further $1.765 billion payout.

As Washington and Beijing remain locked in an increasingly acrimonious standoff, HSBC’s results highlight the mounting risks for institutions built on free-flowing global trade—and the difficult balancing act ahead for the bank as it navigates an era of protectionism and geopolitical volatility.

Read more:
HSBC sets aside $876m for bad loans amid fallout from Trump’s trade war

From Lake Superior to Public Service—A Story of Purpose, Planning, and People

Jonathan Bergsma is a dedicated public servant and recruiter for the Ontario Government’s Treasury Board Secretariat. Born in Georgetown, Ontario, Jonathan’s journey began in the quiet rhythms of small-town life and evolved through diverse stages—from student-athlete at the University of Toronto to a respected 23-year career in law enforcement, culminating in his leadership as a Detachment Commander. While he prefers not to spotlight his policing career, it instilled in him an unshakable sense of discipline, integrity, and empathy.

Now in recruitment, Jonathan channels his experience and people-first approach into helping others find meaningful roles within the public sector. A lifelong learner and meticulous planner, he balances career commitment with a deep passion for the outdoors. He’s an accomplished solo sailor, fitness enthusiast, and runner who values resilience and reflection. Community involvement is central to his life, whether through peer support for first responders, volunteering at local food programs, or serving on the board of a trail association. Jonathan Bergsma believes success flows between personal fulfillment and professional purpose—and he navigates both with calm, clarity, and compassion.

What initially drew you to a career in public service?

I’ve always been drawn to work that centers on people—helping, guiding, or protecting them. Public service offers a platform to impact lives on a deeply human level. After years in law enforcement, transitioning to recruitment within government allowed me to continue serving, but now with a focus on helping people find purpose in their careers. It’s a different kind of support, but just as meaningful.

How has your background in English and History shaped your approach to recruitment?

Studying English and History gave me tools I use every day—critical thinking, empathy, narrative awareness. Everyone who comes to a recruiter has a story. Understanding how to listen to that story, ask thoughtful questions, and then connect someone to an opportunity that aligns with their goals is all about interpretation and context. My academic background helps me see the broader picture.

You’ve made a solo crossing of Lake Superior. What did that experience teach you about yourself?

Sailing solo is raw—there’s no one else to rely on. Lake Superior is beautiful but unforgiving. It forced me to confront discomfort, manage fear, and trust my preparation. I learned that I’m more resilient than I imagined. But also, that humility is essential. Nature doesn’t care about your plan. You adjust, adapt, and sometimes, you pause—something I’ve brought into my work life too.

What are some lessons from your athletic days that still resonate with you professionally?

Rowing taught me consistency and endurance. It’s about showing up, even when your body wants to quit. In recruitment, there are long days, complex processes, and sometimes setbacks. That athlete’s mindset—to keep pushing, stay focused, and remember your “why”—has been invaluable. Also, being part of a crew instills an appreciation for teamwork, which is foundational in public service.

What does a “people-first” mindset mean to you in your day-to-day work?

It means every interaction is an opportunity to build trust. Whether I’m guiding someone through a government hiring process or reviewing a résumé, I remind myself there’s a person on the other end who may be nervous, hopeful, or uncertain. Treating each case with empathy and attention not only improves outcomes but also reinforces the dignity of public service.

How do you balance a meticulous planning style with the unpredictability of life and work?

Great question. I believe in structured flexibility. I plan because it creates a sense of control, but I’m not rigid. Sailing teaches this too—you set a course, but you’re constantly adjusting to the wind. The key is to remain open to change without losing your direction. Preparation gives me the confidence to handle surprises without unraveling.

Why did you choose to move away from highlighting your policing background?

Policing was a major part of my life, and I’m proud of the work I did. But I want to focus on who I am today and the future I’m building. There are elements of that experience—leadership, crisis management, community service—that inform my current role, but I prefer to let those values show through my actions, not just a title.

What role does volunteering play in your personal sense of fulfillment?

It’s huge. Volunteering reminds me that connection and service exist outside of job descriptions. Peer support, soup kitchens, and trail advocacy allow me to give back without agenda. These experiences keep me grounded and remind me that small actions—like listening or lifting—can have ripple effects. It’s a different kind of purpose, but just as enriching.

What does “success” look like to you now, compared to earlier in your career?

Earlier, success was more about achievement—roles, promotions, outcomes. Now, it’s about alignment. Am I living in a way that reflects my values? Am I contributing meaningfully? Success is the flow between personal joy and professional purpose. It’s not about always being in balance—because life rarely is—but about recognizing when one area can fuel and elevate the other.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone navigating a career change, what would it be?

Give yourself permission to evolve. We often cling to past roles because they’re familiar or prestigious. But growth comes from stepping into discomfort. Reflect honestly on what energizes you, be intentional about your next move, and don’t underestimate the value of your story—even if it doesn’t follow a straight line. Your experience matters more than you think.

Read more:
An Interview with Jonathan Bergsma: Charting New Courses

Across the UK, businesses of varying sizes and industries are unknowingly draining their finances through a silent culprit: vampire appliances.

The cleverly labelled name perfectly describes the issue at hand. These power-hungry devices are consuming electricity when seemingly turned off. The result is that these devices on standby are silently increasing energy bills while contributing to carbon emissions.

Recent data from a study conducted by Sustain Commercial Solar reveals that for larger corporate offices with 100+ employees, energy waste from appliances left on standby can exceed £6,900 per year. As energy prices continue to rise, addressing this invisible drain has become increasingly important for companies looking to reduce operational costs and meet sustainability goals.

Could your office be wasting money and energy on appliances? Let’s find out.

What Are Vampire Appliances?

Although we know what vampire appliances are – drawing power when not actively used – many query what’s classed as one. Some of the most common office examples include:

Computers and monitors: After your team signs off for the day, many desktop systems continue drawing significant power. This is because they have been put into sleep mode rather than fully shut down.
Printers and copiers: These machines are likely not the most used devices. However, when they are needed, they are awoken from their sleeping state to be used. Since these devices often maintain standby functionality, they consume electricity 24/7 despite only being used during working hours.
Kitchen appliances: Aside from their desks, employees often spend time in the kitchen. Many devices in the kitchen, such as microwaves, coffee machines, and water coolers, typically draw constant power to maintain displays and standby functions.
Phone chargers: If left plugged in without devices attached, chargers continue consuming small amounts of electricity that accumulate over time.
AV equipment: Projectors, televisions, and conference room systems are frequently left in standby mode overnight and at weekends.

A comprehensive list of vampire appliances will vary between offices, but identifying these energy-draining culprits marks the first step toward significant savings.

The Financial Impact on Businesses

The cost of appliances left on standby can be far higher than many businesses realise. According to recent research by Sustain Commercial Solar, the financial impact varies significantly by business size:

Small businesses (10-15 employees) could be wasting over £900 annually
Medium-sized businesses (40-50 employees) face considerably higher costs
Large corporate offices (100+ employees) could be losing more than £6,900 per year

The study reveals that computers and laptops on standby alone can cost a small business £315.36 annually, while HVAC systems running unnecessarily cost medium and large businesses £1,182.60 per year. Smart TVs and display screens left on standby in larger offices contribute a staggering £2,128.68 in wasted energy annually.

By addressing standby usage, businesses can significantly reduce waste, save money, and contribute positively to sustainability goals, all with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Environmental Consequences

Beyond financial implications, appliances on standby contribute significantly to carbon emissions. The sustainability survey by Sustain Commercial Solar found that 95% of respondents feel they could do more for sustainability, highlighting growing awareness of environmental responsibility.

For businesses committed to sustainability goals, addressing vampire energy represents a straightforward opportunity to reduce carbon footprints. Unlike major infrastructure changes, tackling standby power requires minimal investment while yielding immediate results.

Practical Solutions for Businesses

Reducing vampire energy consumption doesn’t require complex technological overhauls. Effective strategies include:

Smart power strips: These automatically cut power to peripheral devices when primary equipment (like computers) shuts down.
Outlet timers: Programming power outlets to deactivate during non-business hours eliminates nighttime energy waste.
Energy audits: Professional assessments identify specific appliances consuming excessive standby power.
Employee education: Simple awareness campaigns can significantly reduce energy waste through behavioural changes.
Power management settings: Configuring devices to fully power down rather than enter standby mode after specific periods of inactivity.

Many businesses have successfully implemented these strategies and reduced energy costs while supporting sustainability initiatives.

The Role of Renewable Energy

While reducing vampire energy consumption remains important, switching to renewable sources offers another path toward sustainability. Solar power installations provide businesses with energy independence while reducing carbon emissions.

Solar energy presents a significant opportunity for businesses looking to reduce dependence on the grid, stabilise electricity expenses, and lower carbon emissions. As noted in the Sustain Commercial Solar study, businesses could offset up to 80% of their energy costs through solar installations, with additional benefits from tax incentives and improved sustainability credentials.

Taking Action Against Energy Waste

Addressing vampire appliances represents a practical starting point for businesses looking to reduce operational costs while supporting sustainability goals. With minimal investment, companies can achieve meaningful reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions.

The growing public awareness of sustainability issues creates additional incentives for businesses to address energy waste. Companies demonstrating environmental responsibility increasingly gain competitive advantages through improved brand perception and alignment with consumer values.

For forward-thinking businesses, tackling energy waste from standby appliances represents more than cost-cutting. Instead, it signals a commitment to responsible resource management and environmental stewardship in an increasingly sustainability-conscious marketplace.

Read more:
Could Your Office Be Wasting Thousands Due to Appliances Left on Standby?

Planning a garden wedding? Well, you know it’s all about nature, romance, and understated glamour. And when it comes to dressing your bridesmaids, flower bridesmaid dresses are the perfect option for this setting. They look beautiful against the outdoor setting, provide a modern twist to traditional bridesmaid dresses, and bring a touch of playfulness and whimsy that’s unmatched.

If you’re on the hunt for the latest fashions and what’s current in bridesmaids’ dresses, keep reading — floral designs may be the trending addition your bridal party needs.

Why Floral Bridesmaid Dresses Are Perfect for Garden Weddings

Garden weddings are whimsical in nature. The foliage, blooms, open sky, and soft breeze already set the tone for a whimsical setting, so it’s no wonder that your bridesmaids reflect that same whimsy. Floral bridesmaids’ dresses do exactly that.

Whereas solid colors are too bland, floral prints bring personality and that hint of movement to your bridal party attire. They are not as formal-looking but remain super stylish. Whether you have dainty watercolor flowers or big, bold botanical prints, floral dresses bring the setting to life — and photograph well too.

Light, Romantic, and Suitable for Any Season

One of the great things about floral prints is that they are very versatile. For a spring or summer garden wedding, light pastels and dainty floral designs are light and ethereal. Experiment with blush, lavender, mint, and pale peach on chiffon or tulle.

Planning a wedding during the fall? No problem. Burgundy, terracotta, and forest green rich flowers on deeper colors are equally stunning. You can have bridesmaid dresses in any design and color to complement the season, venue, and theme.

Complimentary Fashions for All Bridesmaids

From wrap cuts to off-shoulders, today’s floral dresses are far from one-size-fits-all. The latest bridesmaid attire trends favor flowing textures, waistbands with elasticity, and slimming necklines — perfect for having your girls feel beautiful and relaxed.

A few of the finest suggestions are:

Wrap-around maxi dresses – they are chic and timeless for any body type
Off-shoulder or strapless flowers – light as air and carefree, perfect for summer
Flutter sleeve wedding dresses – delicate, dreamy, and ideal for garden weddings
Tier or ruffle dresses – fashion forward and playful, with a delicate shape

Enabling bridesmaids to choose their dream shape within a shared flower color is a great idea to adhere to the mismatched theme without compromising on style.

Incorporating Florals and Solids: A Modern Style

Want to mix it up even further? Experiment with combining floral bridesmaid gowns with solid-colored gowns in the same color family. This creates your bridal party with a chic and editorial feel without overdoing it. For instance, pair blush floral patterns with dusty rose solids or blue florals with navy gowns. It’s fresh, visually appealing, and uber chic.

What’s New in Bridesmaid Dresses?

If you’ve been looking around for what’s new in bridesmaid dresses, you’ll see floral prints everywhere — and not just in pastel. Designers now welcome dark florals, moody hues, vintage prints, and even metallic floral overlays for evening weddings.

Yet another rising trend? Floral embroidery. These dresses offer subtle texture and upscale detail, perfect for brides who want to marry modern style with timeless charm.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a flower-covered, romantic wedding, flower bridesmaid dresses are the perfect solution for your outdoor wedding. They bring a splash of color, attitude, and sophistication to your bridal party, but are still easily on theme. With soft spring pastels or deep fall flowers, there’s something magical about flowers beyond the bouquet.

Whether you’re doing all-out floral or adding solids, this refreshing spin on bridesmaid dresses ensures your bridal party looks as lovely as your surroundings. So go ahead — allow your wedding to burst into full bloom.

Read more:
Floral Bridesmaid Dresses: The Perfect Choice for Garden Weddings

Experts have noted a disturbing trend towards unregulated betting sites outside the jurisdiction of the UK, leaving the British gambling industry in a bit of a crisis.

This phenomenon, referred to as a ‘grey market’, is alarming, as it puts players at risk with inadequate consumer protection and showcases, yet again, the fine line between regulations and choice.

The Current UK Gambling Situation

The UKGC (UK Gambling Commission) controls Britain’s gambling ecosystem quite strictly, exercising its authority even at the advertising level with regard to marketing and gambling as a whole, responsible gaming, and many other aspects. The health surveys conducted in the UK estimate that about 0.5% of the adult population consider themselves to be problem gamblers and thus, the system has put increasingly stringent rules in place geared towards protecting vulnerable players.

One of the cornerstones of protective measures is the discontinuation of UK-licensed gambling sites, which is offered through the UKGC-backed program called GamStop. The self-exclusion service has registered more than 300,000 British residents since its launch, demonstrating the austere demand for self-restriction tools alongside the widespread usage of the tool.

Pending adaptations to evolving risks in the market, the legislative framework is constantly shifting. These changes are bound to impact market dynamics.

An Overview of the Gambler’s Grey Market

This market features operators who do not possess a UK license and operate from other countries. These companies usually have licenses from Malta, Curaçao, or Gibraltar which gives them legal standing in their territories as long as they service players from other countries where their regulatory status is ambiguous.

Research suggests that this niche has grown by about 30% since 2021, with approximately £2.8 billion circulating through unofficial channels each year. This growth is tied to the new regulations imposed by the UK, creating a worrying causality for regulators and addiction specialists.

The shift to these platforms captures an omnipresent imbalance between consumer demand and protective measures in the gambling industry. Although the majority of players remain in regulated markets, the explosive growth of the grey market illustrates wide gaps in options that many bettors seek and those available in regulated markets.

Why Players Seek Alternatives

The fascination surrounding unregulated platforms stems from multiple factors. A number of UK players share their concerns regarding regulation over gambling rocketing out of control, with enforced waiting times, limited betting amounts, and game functionality cutbacks for the purposes of assisting responsible gambling.

For players seeking unrestricted experiences, non GamStop bookies operating outside UK jurisdiction offer an attractive alternative. These sites typically feature different betting options, higher limits, and fewer restrictions on account verification or deposit amounts. Additionally, players who have self-excluded through GamStop sometimes seek these platforms when experiencing regret about their exclusion decision.

Market studies suggest that close to 28% of regular bettors have thought about using offshore platforms, while 12% admit to using these sites from time to time. This trend cuts across all social categories, but seems most pronounced among sophisticated gamblers looking for particular offerings not found within the regulated gambling market.

Risks and Issues Related to Consumer Protection

The unregulated form of gambling is a major concern that professionals believe should be at the forefront of attention. Players going beyond the borders set by the UK lose out on vital protection guarantees, which include:

Dispute resolution mechanisms that ensure fair treatment
Guaranteed payment of legitimate winnings
Oversight of game fairness and randomness
Protection from aggressive marketing tactics
Support for responsible gambling, including deposit limits

Financial safeguards are yet another very important risk. UK-licensed operators are obligated to keep the funds of the players in a separate account from the operational resources. On the other hand, offshore sites may intertwine these resources which puts player deposits at risk during operational crises.

“A lack of protection from unscrupulous operators makes for a truly risky environment, especially in the absence of UKGC scrutiny,” says a digital gambling consumer protection expert. “When a gambler ventures out of a controlled space, they forfeit security for ease.”

Finding Balance Between Regulation and Choice

The regulatory, operational, and consumer aspects are all heavily impacted by the growth of the grey market. Industry experts have recommended several approaches to target the root problems:

Conduct periodic reviews of regulations to ensure that they do not stifle market growth while still benefiting the players on the periphery. Better education on the risks pertaining to unregulated gambling. Improved protective offerings that are more aligned with player demand and build international cooperation among gambling governing bodies to devise uniform regulations.

For the individual bettor, knowing the safe boundaries of regulation and the risks associated with transgressing them becomes immensely important. While they might feel restrictive, regulated spaces offer an unmatched level of protection absent in offshore options.

The grey market reveals more fundamental issues regarding gambling policy: where is the optimal dividing line between restriction and freedom, and why will this remain one of the key driving forces behind industry innovation for years to come?

Read more:
Experts Warn of Growing Grey Market in UK Online Betting

The UK’s online gambling boom has brought with it more than just flashy promotions and pop-up bonuses. Behind the curtain lies a chaotic mess of questionable data practices, vague compliance claims, and a legal grey zone that too many operators seem comfortable in.

If you’ve ever asked yourself why your winnings are delayed or who exactly has access to your ID and bank details, you’re not being cynical. You’re being sensible.

Since Brexit, the UK has clung to its own version of the General Data Protection Regulation – GDPR UK – a framework that’s supposed to protect personal data and empower users. In theory, it’s solid. In practice? Not so much. Especially not in sectors like online gambling, where the law is more of a polite suggestion than a strict boundary. That’s where we come in as experienced gambling solicitors and data protection lawyers. Our role isn’t to rubber-stamp operator policies – it’s to ask the awkward questions and demand proper answers.

GDPR UK and the Data Problem Gambling Doesn’t Talk About

Let’s be honest: most online casinos collect far more data than they strictly need. Sure, some information is necessary to comply with anti-money laundering laws or verify that players are over 18. But why do some platforms need to know your location every time you log in or how often you spin the reels at 2 a.m.?

Under GDPR UK, users have rights – access, erasure, portability, and more. Operators, in turn, are supposed to be transparent about what they’re collecting, why, and who they’re sharing it with. But vague privacy policies and sluggish data request responses are still far too common. If that raises alarm bells, it should. And it’s exactly why you might want us – your data protection lawyers – in your corner.

What We Actually Do as Gambling Law Solicitors

If you think a data protection law firm just sits around quoting legislation, think again. We dig into the fine print, compare it against actual practice, and push back when things don’t add up. We know how to cut through corporate jargon and get to the root of the issue.

We’re especially effective when dealing with:

Online casino withdrawal problems UK
Unlicensed casino chargeback requests that mysteriously stall
Breaches of GDPR individual rights
Misleading bonus offers hidden behind predatory terms

Not every issue requires a courtroom showdown. Sometimes, a sharp letter with the right legal references is enough. Other times? You may need to escalate, and because we’ve handled these cases before, we know exactly where to apply pressure.

Gambling Disputes: It’s Not Just About the Money

Too often, disputes start when trust breaks down. It’s not just the missing funds – it’s the silence, the delays, the non-answers from customer support. And when your private data ends up in marketing databases you never opted into? That’s not an accident. It’s negligence.

We understand these patterns. We’ve seen what happens when platforms cut corners. We stay informed on data protection news and track regulatory shifts, which means our advice is based on today’s reality, not outdated assumptions.

Why We Might Be the Only Ones Taking You Seriously

Let’s be honest, operators aren’t going to volunteer that they’ve breached your rights. And regulators? They’re often under-resourced or slow to act. As gdpr solicitors, we don’t wait for problems to resolve themselves – we take action.

We know the tactics used to stonewall users. We know what constitutes a data breach – even when an operator pretends it doesn’t. And we know how to turn your frustration into formal, actionable steps.

In Closing: Your Data, Your Rights, Your Move

The online gambling world isn’t a lawless wasteland, but it’s far from a model of transparency. If you’re dealing with online casino withdrawal problems UK, caught in a gambling dispute, or suspect your GDPR individual rights have been quietly ignored, don’t brush it off.

Push back. Get informed. And if the platform won’t listen? Let us do the talking.

Because protecting your data shouldn’t be a gamble.

Read more:
GDPR UK and Online Gambling: How Gambling Solicitors Protect Your Personal Data

Small businesses in the North East of England are preparing to showcase their products and services to buyers from across the globe, as the government’s “Made in the UK, Sold to the World” export roadshow kicks off this week in Blyth, Northumberland.

The event, the first of eight planned across the UK, will see nearly 100 buyers from 19 overseas markets—including South Korea, Mexico, India, Poland and Germany—meet with British exporters, with a particular focus on clean energy firms. The roadshow series will also visit Belfast, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Cardiff, and aims to connect small businesses with international markets more quickly and effectively.

Gareth Thomas, minister for services, small businesses and exports, said: “Through these roadshows, the government is focusing on supporting key growth sectors, making it quicker and easier for smaller businesses to connect with markets, grasp export opportunities and expand.”

Each roadshow will focus on a different sector, with upcoming events dedicated to advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and financial services. In Blyth, alongside the international buyers, 30 commercial officers from UK embassies and consulates will be on hand to offer advice and facilitate connections free of charge.

Among those attending is Alex Marshall, group business development director at Clarke Energy, a manufacturer of gas-powered power generators. Marshall, who also serves as an export champion for the government, welcomed the initiative: “The event is an excellent place to discuss the latest international trends and export opportunities for UK businesses in the clean energy sector.”

In addition to direct meetings, the roadshows will include workshops and seminars led by the government-backed UK Export Academy, offering practical guidance on areas such as market research and routes to market.

Despite strong government support, recent figures suggest that small businesses still face challenges when it comes to exporting. A 2024 study by the Department for Business & Trade found that only 18 per cent of businesses with revenues over £500,000 considered themselves experts in exporting last year, down from 24 per cent the previous year.

Exporters interested in participating in upcoming roadshows can register their interest through the Department for Business & Trade’s official website.

Read more:
Overseas buyers line up to hear pitches from small UK exporters at new government roadshow

Deliveroo founder and chief executive Will Shu stands to gain more than £172 million if a proposed £2.7 billion takeover by US food delivery giant DoorDash goes ahead, despite the company’s shares still languishing far below their 2021 flotation price.

The board of Deliveroo announced after markets closed on Friday that it was “minded to recommend” the 180p-per-share approach from DoorDash, placing the FTSE 250 firm firmly in the spotlight ahead of Monday’s trading session. The American company, which first approached Deliveroo earlier this month, now has until May 23 to make a formal offer or walk away.

If completed at the proposed price, the deal would see Shu cash in on his 5.9 per cent stake in the business, having already sold shares worth nearly £15 million last September to fund personal property investments. However, for many early investors, the offer would crystallise heavy losses. Deliveroo’s £7.6 billion IPO in 2021 — the biggest London listing for a decade — was infamously dubbed a flop after shares plunged 26 per cent on the first day of trading. Shares closed at just 146.5p on Friday, down 62 per cent from the 390p listing price.

While the £2.7 billion proposal offers a 23 per cent premium to Deliveroo’s undisturbed share price, it represents a much smaller uplift compared to recent takeover activity in the sector. In February, Prosus paid a 63 per cent premium to acquire Just Eat Takeaway, despite that firm suffering from falling revenues and persistent losses. Deliveroo, by contrast, delivered a maiden pre-tax profit of £12.2 million last year and has shown revenue growth of 19 per cent since 2021.

The emergence of DoorDash’s interest is unsurprising in a market that has been consolidating fast, with scale increasingly critical for survival. DoorDash, which made its European debut by acquiring Finnish delivery platform Wolt in 2022, has no geographical overlap with Deliveroo — a factor likely to ease regulatory concerns.

Still, there remains the possibility of a rival bid. Amazon, which holds a 13 per cent stake in Deliveroo, could be a contender, although any move by the tech giant would face intense scrutiny from UK competition regulators.

DoorDash’s ambitions could see it develop Deliveroo’s platform beyond food delivery, following a similar strategy in the US where it sells products from brands such as Sephora. Deliveroo has already begun diversifying, partnering last year with the likes of B&Q, Screwfix, and Not On The High Street.

While Deliveroo’s growth has slowed post-pandemic — with revenue up just 3 per cent last year compared to 57 per cent in 2021 — analysts believe the company remains a valuable asset. Research from Jefferies suggests DoorDash could justify paying up to 230p per share without damaging its free cash flow, fuelling hopes that Deliveroo’s board could negotiate a higher price.

For now, Deliveroo shareholders are advised to take no action as the takeover discussions continue. However, with DoorDash keen to accelerate its European expansion and Deliveroo offering instant access to major urban markets, a deal — whether at 180p or higher — appears increasingly likely.

Read more:
Will Shu set for £172m payday as Deliveroo takeover looms

The founder of Mojo, a men’s sexual health and wellbeing app, has warned that HMRC’s aggressive crackdown on research and development (R&D) tax credits risks punishing genuine innovators, as his company battles a demand to repay more than £400,000.

Xander Gilbert, 35, said he dreads the arrival of each new brown envelope from HMRC, after spending a year locked in a dispute with the tax authority over an R&D credit awarded early last year. Gilbert and his cousin Angus Barge launched Mojo in 2019, having personally experienced the challenges around erectile dysfunction. Since then, the app has attracted more than £5 million in venture capital funding from Kindred Capital and Octopus Ventures, and built a user base across 150 countries.

Mojo had pivoted to become what it describes as an AI-powered sex and relationship therapist, a move the founders say is essential in a country where only around 300 sex therapists are available to meet the needs of millions. “We’re helping people with their relationships, their sex lives — even helping people have babies,” Gilbert said.

The company’s R&D tax credit was meant to support its technology development efforts, but just months after receiving the payment, HMRC wrote to say it believed the claim was invalid and demanded repayment. Gilbert described the correspondence as “completely dispiriting,” with repeated requests for information already provided and growing fears that the process is stacked against claimants.

The dispute has left Mojo contemplating the costly next step of arbitration, even as they continue to supply further evidence through specialist consultancy FI Group. Gilbert said the experience left him feeling that HMRC was incentivised to claw back payments regardless of merit: “It feels like they’re trying to pick holes. They’re throwing absolutely everything at it to make that happen.”

One sticking point has been HMRC’s insistence on seeing timesheets to prove staff were engaged in R&D work. Gilbert said Mojo did not keep formal timesheets, noting that HMRC’s own guidance states that a best estimate is acceptable. “They keep asking for repeated proof we physically can’t provide, effectively contradicting their own instructions.”

Mojo is far from alone. HMRC’s tougher approach follows revelations of widespread abuse of the R&D tax relief system, with fraudulent claims proliferating in previous years. One investigation found claims linked to activities such as creating recipes for blueberry croissants. The Office for National Statistics reported that while British businesses claimed tax relief for £47.5 billion of R&D in 2019, only £25.9 billion of actual private-sector R&D had been carried out.

As a result, HMRC has acknowledged an “unacceptably high” level of fraud and error within the scheme, particularly among small businesses, and is now subjecting more claims to detailed scrutiny. An estimated 26 per cent of SME R&D relief expenditure was affected by error or fraud in 2021-22, costing taxpayers around £1.2 billion.

However, entrepreneurs warn that genuine businesses are being caught in the crossfire. Alicia Navarro, founder of focus platform Flown, recently shared her frustrations on LinkedIn, recounting how HMRC questioned her eligibility despite her 27 years in technical project management and a computing science degree.

Philip Hammond, the former chancellor, has warned that heavy-handed enforcement risks deterring legitimate innovators from making claims — potentially undermining the government’s broader growth ambitions.

An HMRC spokesperson defended its stance, saying: “R&D reliefs play a vital role in the Government’s mission to boost economic growth and we’re committed to ensuring the claims process is straightforward for genuine claimants. Given the significant levels of non-compliance in the regime, it’s essential we undertake activity to make sure taxpayers’ money is spent on supporting genuine R&D.”

For Gilbert and others, the battle continues — and with every new letter from HMRC, so too does the uncertainty hanging over their businesses’ futures.

Read more:
Men’s sexual health app faces £400k HMRC clawback as R&D tax crackdown bites