Business

The High Court trial between PPE Medpro and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) drew to a close on its twelfth day, as the defence delivered a final volley of arguments accusing the government of failing to mitigate its alleged losses, relying on “unevidenced” cost claims, and ultimately using PPE Medpro as a scapegoat for pandemic-era procurement mismanagement.

In his final remarks, Charles Samek KC, counsel for PPE Medpro, reinforced the core message of the defence: that the DHSC’s case amounts to little more than “buyer’s remorse” and that the department has not met the burden of proof required to justify its £122 million breach of contract claim.

“It would, we respectfully submit, be a mistake… to assume that the Department’s starting point and perspective is the right one,” Samek told Mrs Justice Cockerill, urging her to consider the context of the original contract: a global pandemic, not a post-hoc procurement audit.

Samek returned to a key point raised throughout the trial — that even if the gowns had been rejected, the DHSC failed to repurpose or resell them, despite expert evidence showing that market demand remained high well into 2021.

He referenced the testimony of Igor Popovic, PPE Medpro’s expert on valuation, who told the court that the gowns could have fetched up to £85 million on the non-sterile PPE market if the government had acted in time.

“There was good demand worldwide for gowns,” Samek said. “There was good prospect of a sale for the DHSC.”

Following this, PPE Medpro’s junior counsel Ashley Cukier addressed the government’s claim for storage costs, arguing that the figures had been presented late in the process and were based on incomplete and unreliable evidence.

“The only witness put forward by the Department on the question of storage costs was Mr Bates,” Cukier noted. “He fairly admitted he was not the author of the spreadsheet. He had no substantive involvement in the production of it.”

Cukier then highlighted the extraordinary inconsistencies in the spreadsheet relied upon by the DHSC, including unexplained drops in gown quantities from one week to the next — including reductions of 1 million and 4 million gowns.

“He was unable to give any cogent explanation,” Cukier said. “It is an unevidenced claim. It is a bad claim, and one we say should fail.”

He also reminded the court that the DHSC had already abandoned its original claim for disposal costs.

In summing up, Samek warned against the risk of favouring the government’s version of events simply because it comes with institutional authority. He stressed that the trial had shown Medpro’s actions were transparent and contractually compliant — and that the real issue lay with the DHSC’s own mismanagement.

“Both parties approach this case from completely different starting points. Our case starts with the actual circumstances that existed at the time of entering into the contract — which was the pandemic emergency,” he said.

After PPE Medpro concluded its closing argument, Paul Stanley KC, representing the DHSC, offered a brief oral reply, defending the government’s position.

With all evidence and submissions now complete, Mrs Justice Cockerill confirmed that her judgment will be handed down before October.

The outcome will not only determine the fate of this high-profile £122 million claim, but could also have significant ramifications for how pandemic-era procurement disputes are viewed — and whether private contractors can be held accountable for government decisions made under emergency conditions.

Read more:
PPE Medpro trial ends with defence accusing DHSC of ‘bad claim’ and pandemic scapegoating

The UK economy shrank for the second consecutive month in May, in an early setback for new Chancellor Rachel Reeves and a sign that the fragile recovery may be stalling.

According to figures released this morning by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), GDP contracted by 0.1% in May, falling short of analysts’ expectations for a modest rebound. This follows a sharper 0.3% drop in April and marks the second month of decline after a brief bounce of 0.4% in March.

The ONS said the decline in May was driven primarily by a 0.9% fall in industrial production and a 0.6% drop in construction output, although the dominant services sector managed slight growth of 0.1%.

The ONS noted:

Services output grew by 0.1% in May, following a 0.3% decline in April.
Production output – covering manufacturing and energy – dropped 0.9%, after falling 0.6% in April.
Construction output declined 0.6% in May, reversing gains made in April.

While all three sectors showed growth over the three months to May – led by a 1.2% rise in construction – the month-on-month picture paints a more concerning image of an economy struggling to build momentum.

The data comes just a week after Rachel Reeves pledged to deliver “stability and growth” through her new fiscal rules and a pro-business agenda. But with economic activity faltering, the Chancellor faces growing pressure to set out a clear strategy to boost investment and avoid further slowdowns.

Ben Jones, lead economist at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), said today’s data highlights the risks still facing UK businesses “Flatlining growth in May underscores the ongoing pressures on the economy, with manufacturing and retail continuing to struggle. Persistent trade uncertainty, a cooling labour market and slowing income growth all point to a sluggish recovery.”

“With the Autumn Budget on the horizon, the Chancellor must reassure firms that there will be no new taxes on business—and instead focus on dismantling barriers to growth.”

Jones added that a “collaborative partnership between business and government” would be crucial to sustaining any meaningful recovery.

May’s contraction also reflects broader global headwinds. The IMF has downgraded its forecast for global growth, citing geopolitical risks and weaker trade flows, while central banks remain cautious about cutting interest rates too quickly.

UK inflation is now back at the Bank of England’s 2% target, but borrowing costs remain elevated and have weighed on household demand and business investment. Analysts warn that without targeted support, the economy may struggle to generate the kind of momentum needed to lift living standards and unlock productivity gains.

Economists say the risk of stagnation over the summer remains high, particularly if global demand weakens further or consumer confidence slips. However, some note that the longer-term outlook could improve if inflation continues to ease and interest rate cuts materialise later this year.

For now, though, the warning signs are clear: while services may be ticking over, the UK’s industrial and construction base is still under strain. And with the new government under increasing pressure to deliver on its growth agenda, today’s figures may prove a critical early test of its economic credibility.

Read more:
UK economy shrinks again in May, fuelling fears of faltering recovery

The UK government is exploring emergency options to save Speciality Steel UK (SSUK), a major South Yorkshire steelmaker employing more than 1,400 people, as fears mount it could collapse into administration following a critical court hearing next week.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is said to be actively considering contingency plans, including the possibility of taking the company into public ownership if its parent, Liberty Steel, fails to secure new funding or a buyer. The move would mark the second time in recent weeks the government has taken control of a major UK steel plant, following its intervention at British Steel’s Scunthorpe works.

SSUK, which operates sites in Rotherham and Sheffield, is part of Sanjeev Gupta’s GFG Alliance – a global industrial group that has faced financial turmoil since the 2021 collapse of its main lender, Greensill Capital. Liberty has produced no steel at Rotherham for more than a year due to cash shortages, despite housing the UK’s largest electric arc furnace. The company has, however, continued to pay staff.

Gupta, who is based in the UAE, remains in protracted negotiations with Greensill administrators and is also the subject of a Serious Fraud Office investigation, which began in 2021, into suspected fraud and money laundering. GFG Alliance denies any wrongdoing.

According to court filings, previous attempts to sell SSUK have failed, but Gupta has told unions he is in “advanced talks with a major investor” ahead of the insolvency hearing. A union source said they were still awaiting details of the potential deal but warned that if the company enters administration, ministers must act to protect jobs and strategic assets.

Community union, which represents many Liberty staff, said: “Should the worst happen next week, the government will need to step in to protect jobs and the strategically important assets.”

Reynolds has previously told Parliament that SSUK’s workers were “a national asset” and part of the UK’s wider steel strategy. Officials close to the Business Secretary say he has ruled out injecting government funds while Gupta remains in control of the business, but would be open to support if the company enters administration.

One option under consideration would mirror the government’s approach at British Steel in 2019, when an official receiver kept the business running while a buyer was sought. In Liberty’s case, officials believe a sale would be more straightforward because its electric arc furnaces are cleaner and more cost-efficient than traditional blast furnaces.

A Liberty Steel spokesperson said the company was still hopeful of securing a future for the business: “Speciality Steel remains a valuable business with strong demand, particularly in aerospace, defence and energy. Our plan has always been to keep Speciality Steel going and to run it well.”

GMB national secretary Andy Prendergast added: “GMB strongly supports government intervention to maintain operations whilst a sustainable plan is found for this crucial player in one of our key industries.”

The situation presents an early test of the new Labour government’s industrial strategy and its commitment to preserving strategically important British manufacturing. With SSUK having lost £340 million in the past four years, ministers will be under pressure to act decisively to avoid mass job losses in a politically sensitive region.

Sources within government say the plants’ high-grade, lower-carbon steel production fits with the UK’s broader economic and environmental goals – and could make SSUK an attractive proposition for future investors, once control passes from Gupta.

With the insolvency hearing scheduled for Wednesday, the coming days will prove critical. If no private funding or buyer materialises, the government is expected to act quickly to prevent the collapse of one of the UK’s few remaining specialist steelmakers.

Read more:
UK government considers rescue deal for Speciality Steel amid fears of collapse

The artificial turf industry stands at a pivotal juncture where performance demands meet environmental responsibility. AstroTurf, the company that pioneered synthetic sports surfaces six decades ago, continues to shape the future of athletic fields through groundbreaking technologies that prioritise both player welfare and ecological sustainability.

From elite football pitches across Europe to Olympic field hockey venues, the latest developments demonstrate how scientific research and innovative materials are transforming the landscape of modern sport.

Revolutionary Sustainability Through Sugar Cane Technology

The most striking advancement in synthetic turf technology emerges from an unlikely source: sugar cane. AstroTurf has developed the world’s first carbon-neutral hockey turf, specifically engineered for Olympic competition. The Poligras Paris GT Zero system, which featured prominently at the Paris 2024 Olympics, incorporates 80 per cent bio-based materials derived from sustainably farmed sugar cane.

This remarkable achievement addresses one of sport’s most pressing environmental challenges. Traditional synthetic turf relies heavily on petroleum-based plastics, contributing to carbon emissions throughout the manufacturing process. By utilising a by-product of sugar cane processing from Brazil, the new technology actively captures CO2 from the atmosphere during the plant’s growth cycle. The third pressing of sugar cane, no longer useful for sugar production, provides the raw material for organic polyethylene that forms the foundation of this revolutionary surface.

The environmental impact proves substantial. Each standard hockey pitch using this technology saves approximately 73 tonnes of CO2 compared to conventional synthetic turf. The carbon footprint reduction has been independently certified by Berlin-based DAkkS-accredited consulting company GUTcert, validating the surface as genuinely climate-neutral.

Beyond carbon neutrality, the innovation extends to water conservation. The proprietary Turf Glide technology reduces friction between the ball and surface, allowing the turf to meet International Hockey Federation (FIH) standards for dry play. This advancement particularly benefits regions facing water scarcity, where maintaining traditional wet hockey surfaces poses significant challenges.

Biomechanical Research Drives Player Safety

Player safety remains paramount in synthetic turf development, with AstroTurf investing millions in research partnerships that yield measurable improvements in injury prevention. The collaboration with the University of Tennessee’s Center for Athletic Field Safety represents the industry’s most comprehensive approach to understanding how surface characteristics affect athlete biomechanics.

The centrepiece of AstroTurf’s safety innovation lies in its patented RootZone technology. This system employs crimped nylon fibres that create a three-dimensional matrix beneath the playing surface, effectively encapsulating the infill material. Independent research from Michigan State University identified this design as producing the safest biomechanical characteristics among synthetic turf systems tested.

The science behind injury prevention on artificial surfaces proves complex, involving multiple interconnected factors. Whilst surface consistency matters significantly, the research acknowledges that player conditioning, footwear selection, weather conditions, and individual biomechanics all contribute to injury patterns. The RootZone technology addresses the surface component by maintaining uniform shock absorption and energy restitution across the entire pitch, reducing the variability that can lead to unexpected movements and subsequent injuries.

Infill migration, a persistent challenge in synthetic turf systems, receives particular attention in the latest designs. During intensive play, traditional surfaces experience movement of infill material from high-traffic areas to less-used zones, creating inconsistent playing conditions. The RootZone matrix minimises this migration, ensuring that impact absorption remains consistent throughout the pitch’s lifespan.

Advanced Fibre Technology Enhances Performance

The evolution of synthetic turf fibres represents another frontier of innovation. AstroTurf’s Trionic Plus technology combines co-polymers of nylon and polyethylene, creating fibres that balance durability with the softer feel athletes prefer. This hybrid approach addresses longstanding concerns about surface abrasiveness whilst maintaining the structural integrity required for elite competition.

Several technological enhancements distinguish modern fibres from earlier generations. Sharkskin technology reduces skin friction, addressing concerns about surface abrasions common in sliding sports. The integration of Statblock antistatic additives proves particularly innovative, reducing static electricity by up to seventeen times compared to standard fibres. This reduction helps maintain infill stability whilst improving player comfort during dry conditions.

Temperature management presents another critical challenge, particularly for facilities in warmer climates. DualChill thermal shield technology provides a 42 per cent improvement in infrared reflectivity, slowing the rate at which fibres absorb heat. This advancement not only enhances player comfort but also extends fibre lifespan by reducing thermal degradation.

Antimicrobial protection through Sanitized technology addresses hygiene concerns increasingly important in shared athletic facilities. The treatment helps eliminate bacterial odours and prevents microbial buildup on fibre surfaces, contributing to healthier playing environments.

Comprehensive Systems Approach

The sophistication of modern synthetic turf extends beyond individual components to encompass complete system design. AstroTurf manufactures all elements in-house, from initial masterbatch formulation through final field installation, ensuring quality control at every stage. This vertical integration proves particularly important given recent concerns about chemical additives in synthetic materials.

Shock pad technology provides an additional layer of customisation. Modern elastomeric pads, placed beneath the turf surface, offer supplementary impact absorption tailored to specific sports requirements. Laboratory testing validates each pad configuration before field approval, ensuring consistent performance characteristics.

Global Impact on Elite Competition

The practical impact of these innovations manifests across elite sporting venues worldwide. AstroTurf surfaces have hosted twelve World Series, eleven Super Bowls, ten Olympics, and thirty-two NFL Pro Bowls throughout the company’s history. More recently, the focus has shifted towards football and field hockey applications, reflecting global sporting priorities.

The partnership with USA Field Hockey exemplifies long-term commitment to sport development. The installation of Olympic-specification surfaces at training facilities allows athletes to prepare on surfaces identical to those used in international competition. This consistency proves crucial for skill development and tactical preparation at elite levels.

European football clubs increasingly recognise the advantages of advanced synthetic surfaces for training facilities and youth academies. The ability to maintain consistent playing characteristics throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions, supports player development programmes requiring reliable training surfaces.

Tennis applications demonstrate the versatility of modern synthetic technology. Laykold court systems, part of the broader AstroTurf portfolio, provide surfaces suitable for everything from recreational play to professional competition. The integration of similar research principles across different sports yields surfaces optimised for specific movement patterns and ball interactions.

Manufacturing Excellence and Quality Assurance

Production facilities employ advanced testing equipment, including Berlin Athletes machines, QUV weathering testers, and accelerated wear simulators. This in-house testing capability allows rapid prototyping and validation of new materials before field deployment. The investment in laboratory infrastructure demonstrates a commitment to evidence-based product development rather than marketing-driven innovation.

Quality control extends beyond initial manufacturing to encompass installation procedures. Climate-controlled prefabrication facilities allow precise assembly of field sections before transport to installation sites. This approach minimises variables during field construction, ensuring consistent quality across different geographic locations and weather conditions.

Future Directions in Sustainable Sport Surfaces

Looking ahead, the trajectory of synthetic turf development points towards even greater integration of sustainable materials and advanced performance characteristics. Research continues into zero-waste manufacturing processes, with particular focus on end-of-life recycling solutions. The establishment of dedicated turf recycling facilities represents a crucial step towards circular economy principles in sports infrastructure.

Water conservation remains a priority, particularly for sports traditionally requiring irrigation. The success of dry-play hockey surfaces demonstrates potential for reimagining water usage across multiple sports. Future developments may extend these principles to football and other field sports, reducing environmental impact whilst maintaining performance standards.

Material science advances promise further improvements in player safety and surface longevity. Research into new polymer combinations and manufacturing techniques aims to create surfaces that more closely replicate the playing characteristics of natural grass whilst eliminating maintenance requirements and environmental drawbacks.

Industry Leadership Through Innovation

AstroTurf’s position as the only USDA BioPreferred sports turf manufacturer underscores leadership in sustainable manufacturing. The company’s early adoption of PFAS-free production processes and membership in the Green Sports Alliance reflect proactive environmental stewardship rather than reactive compliance.

The financial commitment to research and development distinguishes serious innovation from superficial improvements. Multi-million pound investments in university partnerships and testing facilities demonstrate a long-term vision for advancing sports surface technology. This approach contrasts with competitors focused primarily on short-term market gains.

Collaboration with international sporting federations ensures that innovations address real-world performance requirements. The development of surfaces for Olympic competition provides the ultimate testing ground for new technologies, with lessons learned filtering down to community-level facilities.

As sporting organisations worldwide grapple with environmental responsibilities whilst maintaining competitive excellence, the innovations emerging from companies like AstroTurf demonstrate that sustainability and performance need not conflict. Through continued investment in research, commitment to environmental stewardship, and focus on athlete welfare, the future of synthetic sports surfaces appears both greener and safer than ever before.

The transformation from petroleum-based products to bio-based materials, coupled with advanced safety features and comprehensive recycling programmes, represents more than incremental improvement. These developments signal a fundamental reimagining of how athletic surfaces can serve both immediate sporting needs and long-term environmental goals. For athletes, administrators, and communities investing in sports infrastructure, these innovations offer compelling evidence that choosing synthetic surfaces no longer requires compromising ecological principles or player safety.

Read more:
AstroTurf Leads Innovation in Player Safety and Sustainability for Modern Sport

Bentley Kyle Evans is a well-known writer, producer, and director. He was born in Oakland and raised in Los Angeles. He started his career as an actor in the 1990 film House Party. Soon after, he found his true calling behind the camera.

Evans became a leader in TV comedy. He worked as the showrunner for hit sitcoms like Martin and The Jamie Foxx Show. He also co-created The Jamie Foxx Show and created Love That Girl!. His writing and creative work helped shape Black television.

His career kept growing. He co-wrote the film A Thin Line Between Love and Hate with Martin Lawrence. He later created Family Time, Bounce TV’s first original show. He also created other Bounce TV hits like In the Cut and Grown Folks.

Evans continues to lead in the industry. He produced Dad Stop Embarrassing Me! on Netflix. He teamed up with rapper MC Lyte to create Partners in Rhyme on ALLBLK. He also produces Millennials on ALLBLK. In 2022, he co-produced Martin: The Reunion on BET+.

His success is also a family story. His wife is an art director and set decorator. His son is an actor and starred on one of his shows. His daughter, sister, and nephew are also writers and producers.

Evans is proud of his family business. He enjoys golf and pickleball. He is a NAACP Image Award nominee. Later this year, he will release a book called The Hollywood Blueprint. It shares his story and advice for people entering the industry.

Behind the Scenes: Bentley Kyle Evans on Building a Family Business and Shaping Black Television

Q: You’ve had quite a journey in the entertainment industry. Let’s start at the beginning. How did it all begin for you?

Bentley Evans: I actually started in front of the camera. My first role was in House Party back in 1990. That experience showed me the energy of being on set, but I quickly realised I was more interested in what happened behind the scenes. I wanted to tell stories, create characters, and shape what people saw on screen.

Q: What led you to make that shift from acting to writing and producing?

Bentley Evans: I’ve always been a storyteller at heart. After House Party, I kept thinking about how shows were made. I started learning about scriptwriting and production. Eventually, I got my first big opportunity with Martin. That show changed everything. It allowed me to work closely with talented people like Martin Lawrence and really dive into comedy writing. Once I got behind the scenes, I knew that’s where I belonged.

Q: Martin and The Jamie Foxx Show became iconic sitcoms. What do you think made them resonate so much with audiences?

Bentley Evans: Both shows were authentic. We pulled from real life—our humour, our culture, the everyday things we all deal with. Martin was loud, fast, and silly, but it had heart. The Jamie Foxx Show had a different style, but it was still rooted in family, ambition, and relationships. We never tried to copy anyone else’s formula. We just told the truth as we saw it, with a bit of comedy added in.

Q: You’ve been behind some of the most recognisable sitcoms in Black television. How do you see your role in the industry today?

Bentley Evans: I see myself as a builder and a guide. When I started, there weren’t many people who looked like me in leadership roles in TV. Now, I’m focused on creating opportunities, not just for myself, but for others. I’ve been fortunate to help shows like Love That Girl!, Family Time, and In the Cut get made, but it’s not just about creating shows—it’s about building careers and opening doors.

Q: Your company has a unique angle because it’s a family business. How did that come about?

Bentley Evans: It happened naturally. My wife, Valicia, is an art director and set decorator, so we were already in the same world. My son, Bentley Jr., acted on Family Time. My daughter is a writer. My sister works with me as a producer and writer. My nephew also writes and produces with us. We work as a team, and it makes the creative process more personal. There’s trust and honesty because we’re family, but it also keeps us all grounded.

Q: Many people say working with family can be tricky. How do you manage it?

Bentley Evans: Communication. We’re honest with each other about what works and what doesn’t. At the end of the day, we all want the project to succeed. It’s not about egos—it’s about making the best show possible. We’ve had disagreements, sure, but we leave it on set. When we go home, we’re just family again.

Q: Your recent projects, like Dad Stop Embarrassing Me! on Netflix and Partners in Rhyme on ALLBLK, show that you’re still very active. What keeps you motivated after so many years?

Bentley Evans: I love what I do. Storytelling never gets old. There are always new voices, new challenges, and new platforms. Shows like Millennials give me a chance to work with younger talent and hear fresh perspectives. Plus, I’ve learned to adapt. The industry has changed, and streaming has opened up a lot of opportunities. I enjoy finding ways to stay current while keeping my core style.

Q: You’re releasing a book soon, The Hollywood Blueprint. Can you tell us a bit about it?

Bentley Evans: It’s part memoir, part guidebook. I share the ups and downs of my career—the successes, the mistakes, and everything in between. It’s also full of advice for people trying to break into the business. I’ve seen a lot over the years, and I wanted to pass on some of those lessons. It’s not a glamorous story—it’s honest. The industry can be tough, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can make it through.

Q: Looking back, what’s been your proudest achievement so far?

Bentley Evans: Honestly, it’s the fact that I’ve been able to build something lasting with my family. The awards and shows are great, but nothing beats working with the people you love and knowing you’ve created something together. That’s the legacy I’m most proud of.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting out?

Bentley Evans: Be patient, be humble, and stay consistent. Don’t chase fame—chase the work. Learn every part of the process and always be ready to adapt. And never forget that relationships matter—both in business and in life.

Read more:
Bentley Kyle Evans Talks Legacy, Lessons, and Life in Television

Read more:
How Loyverse Integration Unlocks Small Businesses’ Growth

Andres Ruocco’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and service. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, he didn’t follow a straight path. But every twist led him closer to his purpose—helping others live healthier lives. Today, he’s a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, using his knowledge, discipline, and empathy to guide clients through fitness journeys.

“I’ve always believed in personal growth,” Ruocco says. “And I’ve always wanted to make a difference.”

Who Is Andres Ruocco?

Andres Ruocco grew up in Venezuela, the son of a civil engineer and an English tutor. He speaks three languages—English, Spanish, and Italian—and found his first passion for fitness early in life.

“My dad would take me on mountain walks every Sunday. That’s where it all started,” he recalls. At 12, he began training in karate and playing soccer daily with friends. But by the end of high school in 1997, he felt stuck. “I didn’t know what I wanted,” he admits. “There was this restlessness.”

So, he made a bold move.

From Civilian to Combat: A Defining Chapter in the U.S. Army

After moving to the U.S., Andres joined a community college in Tampa in 1998. But it wasn’t fulfilling. “I needed something more structured. I wanted purpose,” he says.

In 2002, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and trained as a Unit Supply Specialist. He was stationed near the Korean Demilitarized Zone before being deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“The Army gave me structure, discipline, and a mission,” Ruocco says. “Basic training, the long deployments, the pressure—it changes you. You learn what you’re really made of.”

Returning to Civilian Life and Finding a New Purpose

Coming home was tough. “After combat, sitting in a call center selling education programs felt empty,” he explains. “I needed to do something that mattered.”

That “something” came through a friend—a fellow veteran—who introduced him to the world of VA disability benefits. Ruocco began helping other veterans navigate the complex system.

“It clicked. I could use my experience to help people like me,” he says.

He joined a company specializing in medical evidence for veteran benefits. The work was personal. “Veterans need someone who understands. I could be that guy.”

Rediscovering Fitness—and Building a New Career

The pandemic brought more change. Like many, Ruocco reassessed his life. “I realized I’d lost touch with the one thing that always grounded me—fitness,” he says.

Inspired by his own personal trainer, he dove back in. He earned certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine in personal training and nutrition coaching. He enrolled in a Sports and Health Sciences bachelor’s program, graduating in February 2025.

Soon after, he started coaching at Ignite Fitness in Tampa, where he now works with clients online and in person.

“I’ve seen people change completely—not just physically, but mentally,” Ruocco says. “That’s what keeps me going.”

Why Veterans Make Great Fitness Coaches

Ruocco believes his military background gives him an edge. “Discipline, structure, accountability—those are built into my DNA,” he explains. “I also know what it’s like to rebuild yourself.”

His clients aren’t just looking for workouts. They’re looking for motivation, stability, and real results.

“I always start by listening,” he says. “Everyone has their own story. You have to meet them where they are.”

Leadership Lessons From the Gym and the Battlefield

Ruocco says leadership is about example, not ego. “In the Army, your team counts on you. In fitness, it’s the same. Your clients count on you to show up, to guide them, and to push them when they need it.”

He also stresses the value of continuous learning. “I read fitness journals, attend webinars, and update my plans all the time. You can’t get lazy in this field.”

His process is clear and goal-oriented. He sets long-term visions, then breaks them down into smaller, trackable milestones. “Discipline without direction doesn’t work,” he says. “You need both.”

Balancing Business and Life

Even with a packed schedule, Ruocco makes time for himself. He enjoys sightseeing, reading fitness research, and trying new healthy foods.

“A balance between personal and professional life isn’t just nice—it’s necessary,” he says. “Without it, you burn out.”

What Drives Andres Ruocco Today

What defines Andres Ruocco isn’t just his credentials—it’s his purpose.

“Helping someone hit their first push-up, or seeing a veteran get the benefits they deserve—that’s success to me,” he says.

His journey—spanning three continents, military service, call centers, and coaching—is proof that meaningful work comes when personal passion meets professional discipline.

In a world full of shortcuts and noise, Ruocco’s method is simple: show up, stay consistent, and serve others.

“Fitness saved me more than once,” he says. “Now it’s my turn to give back.”

Read more:
Andres Ruocco: From Army Veteran to Fitness Industry Leader

Shipping damage might feel like just another cost of doing business, but the truth is, it adds up. Between refunds, replacements, delays, and unhappy customers, the impact often stretches far beyond the broken box itself.

And it’s not just about the product. It’s the knock-on effect — the emails, the lost time, the second delivery run. Over time, that eats into more than just your stockroom. It wears down trust. It drains energy. For food and drink suppliers in particular, where timing and condition are everything, one weak link in the packaging can turn a routine job into a scramble.

Yes, tougher boxes help. But they’re only part of the fix. It’s often the small choices — the wrap you use, the way pallets are stacked, the gap you forgot to fill — that make all the difference.

So, what’s going wrong between dispatch and delivery? More often than not, it comes down to one thing: the way items are packaged and secured for travel.

Let’s look at practical ways you can reduce shipping damage — and the simple changes that make a big difference.

It’s Not Just About the Box — Securing the Load Matters

Many business owners focus on choosing the right box for the job — which is smart. But damage often doesn’t happen inside the box. It happens when boxes move, slide, tip, or collapse under pressure.

This is where outer protection comes in. One of the simplest and most effective tools is pallet wrap. It secures entire loads together, reducing the risk of movement and impact during handling. If you’re not using enough of it — or the right type — items can shift in transit, even on short journeys.

There are different wraps to suit different weights and climates, from standard cast film to high-performance machine wrap. It’s worth testing a few options with your supplier to find the best fit for your specific shipments.

Use the Right Materials for the Job

Some items need more protection than others. Liquids, glass, electronics, and perishables don’t just need cushioning — they need structure.

Void fillers like paper or air pillows can help, but in transit-heavy industries, it pays to invest in materials built for the job. For example:

Edge protectors or corner boards prevent crushing under weight or tight strapping.
Anti-slip sheets keep loads stable on pallets.
Strapping systems hold boxes or products firmly in place.

These aren’t only for big operations. Many small and mid-sized companies have started using the same methods couriers and warehouses rely on — because fewer breakages mean fewer headaches.

Packing Too Much or Too Little? Both Can Cause Damage

Some packers go overboard. Others hold back. Either way, things tend to go wrong.

If you’re cramming items into a box just to be safe, pressure builds. Sides bulge. Seals strain. Eventually something gives. But loosen things up too much, and you’ve got contents rattling inside like they’re on a rollercoaster. Empty space can be just as risky as overstuffed corners.

It’s not about using more padding or stronger tape — it’s about getting the fit right. If there’s a gap, fill it with something that absorbs shocks without adding weight. If your item’s fragile, don’t double the tape — use a sturdier box. A snug, steady fit beats brute force every time.

Staff and Couriers Can Make or Break Your Packaging

It’s one thing to have the right materials — it’s another to use them properly.

If your dispatch team is rushed or undertrained, even great packaging can go to waste. Shortcuts like not wrapping pallets tightly, skipping edge guards, or using the wrong-sized boxes often lead to repeat damage.

It’s worth running a short packaging workshop internally, or even asking your supplier for a visit. A 20-minute refresher on packing technique can reduce breakage by a surprising amount.

Also, talk to your couriers. Ask how they handle your goods — and if they’ve noticed issues. If your shipments are being stacked sideways, or handled roughly, they may be able to recommend different loading methods or vehicle options.

Is Your Packaging Still Doing the Job? Time to Check

What worked last year may not be the best fit now. Products change. Supply chains change. Couriers change.

Set a time every quarter to review breakage reports and returns. Is there a pattern? Is one product always arriving damaged? Is one courier responsible for most complaints? Are seasonal conditions affecting certain packaging types?

This kind of audit can reveal problems you didn’t even know existed — and help you fix them before they cost you more.

Get the Basics Right — and the Rest Follows

Preventing breakages doesn’t need a full overhaul. It doesn’t mean adding steps or slowing things down. Often, it’s about catching what’s been overlooked — and fine-tuning the process.

Revisit the basics. Wrap better. Pack tighter. Use materials that do more than just tick boxes. With just a bit more thought at the prep stage, you’ll avoid awkward surprises later on. And your customers? They’ll barely notice — which is exactly the point.

Read more:
Reducing Shipping Damage: Smarter Packaging Choices That Work

Four young people, including a 17-year-old boy and a 20-year-old woman, have been arrested in a major cybercrime investigation linked to high-profile attacks on Marks & Spencer, the Co-op and Harrods.

The National Crime Agency (NCA), working in coordination with local police forces, detained the suspects early on Thursday in connection with a string of damaging hacks believed to be carried out by a group known as Scattered Spider — an international cybercrime network infamous for its use of social engineering tactics.

Among those arrested were, a 17-year-old British boy and a 19-year-old Latvian man, both apprehended in the West Midlands; a 19-year-old British man in London and a 20-year-old British woman in Staffordshire.

All four are suspected of conspiring to gain unauthorised access to computer systems, with further suspicions of blackmail, money laundering, and participating in the activities of an organised crime group. They remain in custody, and digital devices have been seized as part of the investigation.

The cyber attacks, which took place earlier this year, are reported to have cost Marks & Spencer an estimated £300 million, after the retailer was forced to suspend its online operations. The precise financial impact on the Co-op and Harrods has not been disclosed.

In a statement, M&S said: “We welcome this development and thank the NCA for its diligent work on this incident.”

The attackers are believed to have used social engineering methods — impersonating employees or contractors to infiltrate company systems and gain access to sensitive infrastructure.

During a parliamentary committee hearing earlier this week, M&S chair Archie Norman declined to comment on whether the company had paid a ransom to the hackers, amid speculation that ransomware may have been involved.

Paul Foster, head of the NCA’s National Cyber Crime Unit, described the arrests as a significant breakthrough: “Since these attacks took place, specialist NCA cybercrime investigators have been working at pace. Today’s arrests are a significant step in that investigation, but our work continues, alongside partners in the UK and overseas, to ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice.”

Foster also praised the cooperation of the affected companies, and urged other potential victims of cybercrime to report attacks:

“We know that many incidents go unreported, and we encourage all organisations, no matter their size, to come forward if they believe they’ve been targeted.”

The Scattered Spider group has emerged as a highly organised and technically sophisticated cybercrime outfit, known for targeting major corporations through deception, phishing, and insider impersonation. Experts say the group often recruits tech-savvy young people online, some of whom may not fully grasp the legal consequences of their actions.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the NCA has not ruled out further arrests.

Read more:
British teens arrested over £300m Marks & Spencer hacking spree

The UK government has officially dropped controversial plans to introduce “zonal pricing” for electricity, following two years of consultation and intense debate across the energy sector.

The proposed system, which would have charged households and businesses different electricity rates depending on where they lived, has been abandoned in favour of maintaining a single national pricing model. The decision, confirmed by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on Thursday, aims to keep the energy system “fair, affordable, secure and efficient”.

The now-scrapped zonal pricing proposal would have resulted in cheaper electricity for consumers in areas with surplus generation, such as Scotland, where wind farms are frequently curtailed due to low local demand. In contrast, users in London and the south-east, where electricity demand outstrips local supply, risked significantly higher bills.

Energy secretary Ed Miliband said the move to retain national pricing was part of the government’s wider clean energy ambitions.

“Building clean power at pace and scale is the only way to get Britain off the rollercoaster of fossil fuel markets,” he said.
“A reformed system of national pricing is the best way to deliver an electricity system that is fairer, more affordable, and more secure, at less risk to vital investment in clean energy than other alternatives.”

The debate over zonal pricing had divided the energy industry. Supporters — including Octopus Energy boss Greg Jackson — argued it would incentivise industrial users to move closer to renewable generation hubs, increasing system efficiency and reducing costly curtailments.

However, major energy players including SSE, Scottish Power and RWE lobbied hard against the idea, citing the risk of investor uncertainty and potential disruption to infrastructure planning.

Following Thursday’s decision, SSE welcomed the “much-needed policy clarity”, while Centrica CEO Chris O’Shea said the government had made a “commonsense decision”:

“The theoretical benefits never stacked up against the real-world risks,” O’Shea added.

Rather than using pricing to shape energy usage patterns, the government will now focus on centralised planning of the grid to determine where clean energy infrastructure should be built. This forms part of the wider Plan for Change, aimed at delivering a carbon-free power system by 2030.

The decision effectively ends a long-running and highly technical feud within the sector, in which both sides deployed consultant-led modelling and policy lobbying to support their case.

Read more:
UK government scraps ‘zonal pricing’ for energy in favour of single national rate