Business

In UK industry, cost control is often focused on the obvious: labour, materials, logistics, and energy. These are measurable and regularly reviewed. However, one of the most significant threats to profitability often goes underreported or underestimated, downtime.

Downtime is different. It tends to be recorded indirectly and as a result, its full impact is not always clearly understood. In practice, downtime can have a greater effect on profitability than many of the costs businesses actively manage.

Understanding the Real Impact of Downtime

At a basic level, downtime is any period where equipment is not operating as intended. This includes both planned maintenance and unplanned failures, although it is the unplanned side that causes the most disruption.

The immediate issue is usually straightforward. A machine stops, production is interrupted, and a repair is required. However, the wider impact develops quickly. Output is reduced and schedules begin to slip. In some cases, a short stoppage can affect multiple stages of an operation, particularly where processes are closely linked.

Over time, these effects compound. What begins as a single equipment issue can influence overall productivity far beyond the original fault.

Where Costs Accumulate

The financial impact of downtime rarely sits in one place. Instead, it builds across several areas of the business.

Lost production is typically the most visible factor. When equipment is offline, output targets are missed and recovery often requires additional time or shifts.
Labour costs continue regardless of whether equipment is running. Teams may be delayed, reassigned, or working below full efficiency while waiting for repairs to be completed.
There is also the risk of secondary damage. A worn or misaligned component, such as a shaft journal or bearing housing, can place additional stress on connected systems. If not addressed promptly, this can lead to more extensive repairs.
In situations where components need to be removed for offsite repair, further costs are introduced. Lifting equipment, transport, and reinstallation all extend the downtime period.

Individually, these issues are manageable. Combined, they represent a significant and often underestimated cost.

Increasing Pressure on UK Industry

Several factors are making downtime more difficult to manage across the UK. A large proportion of industrial equipment is operating beyond its original service life. While this is often necessary, it increases the likelihood of wear-related failures. At the same time, production demands remain high. Equipment is expected to run continuously, leaving less opportunity for preventative maintenance.

There is also increased reliance on specialist skills for certain types of repair work. Where these are not immediately available, response times can be extended. Taken together, these conditions mean that when downtime occurs, its impact is more pronounced than it might have been in the past.

Planned vs Unplanned Downtime

Not all downtime carries the same level of risk.

Planned downtime, such as scheduled maintenance, is typically controlled and factored into operational planning.
Unplanned downtime is far more disruptive. It occurs without warning, often requiring immediate intervention and leading to unexpected delays.

The key difference lies in control. Planned downtime can be managed and optimised. Unplanned downtime introduces uncertainty, which makes it significantly more costly in both time and resources.

Reducing Downtime Through Onsite Machining

One approach that has become more widely adopted is onsite machining. Rather than removing components and transporting them to a workshop, repairs are carried out directly at the facility. This applies to a range of services, including line boring, crankshaft machining, flange facing, and shaft journal repair. This method addresses one of the main contributors to extended downtime, the time required to dismantle, transport, and reinstall large or complex components.

Practical Benefits of Onsite Repair

Carrying out machining work onsite reduces the number of steps involved in the repair process.

Equipment can often remain in position, which removes the need for heavy lifting and transport logistics. Work can begin sooner, particularly in situations where access is already available. The reduction in handling also lowers the risk of additional damage during removal and reinstallation.

Modern portable machining equipment is capable of achieving high levels of accuracy, allowing repairs to meet required tolerances without the need for workshop-based processes. In many cases, this leads to a shorter overall downtime period and a more controlled repair process.

Industries Where Downtime Has the Greatest Impact

Downtime affects all sectors, but the consequences are more significant in industries that rely on continuous or high-output operations.

In oil and gas, interruptions can halt production entirely, particularly in offshore environments where access is limited.

Power generation facilities face both financial and regulatory pressure to maintain consistent output.
Marine and shipbuilding operations are heavily schedule-driven, meaning delays can affect multiple stages of a project.
Petrochemical processes often run continuously, so even a short disruption can require time-consuming restart procedures.
Mining and heavy industry operate in demanding conditions, which increases wear on critical components.
Infrastructure and construction projects can also be affected, particularly where key equipment failures delay progress across multiple teams.

A Shift in How Downtime Is Managed

There is a gradual shift away from purely reactive repair strategies towards more responsive and preventative approaches. Regular inspection and monitoring of critical components can help identify issues before they lead to failure. Addressing wear early reduces the likelihood of unplanned stoppages.

At the same time, having access to onsite machining capability allows businesses to respond more quickly when issues do arise. This combination, early intervention and rapid repair, provides a more effective way of managing downtime.

The Importance of Specialist Support

Reducing downtime is not only about equipment, but also about having access to the right expertise.

Specialist onsite machining providers bring both the equipment and experience required to carry out precision repairs in challenging environments. This allows businesses to respond quickly to issues without relying on extended repair processes.

Companies such as Royce Onsite Machining focus specifically on delivering these services in-situ, helping minimise disruption and reduce the time between fault identification and repair completion. Choosing the right support can make a measurable difference to both downtime duration and overall operational efficiency.

Key Takeaway

Downtime remains one of the less visible but more significant costs within UK industry.

Because its impact is distributed across operations, maintenance, and productivity, it is not always captured in a single figure. However, its effect on overall performance is clear. Reducing downtime requires both preventative measures and efficient repair solutions. Onsite machining plays an important role in this by limiting delays and keeping equipment in service. For businesses operating in demanding environments, even small reductions in downtime can lead to meaningful improvements in efficiency and cost control.

Read more:
Why downtime is the biggest hidden cost in UK industry

Frank Elsner is a Canadian public safety leader with decades of experience across policing, intelligence, and corporate security. His career reflects steady progression through complex roles, shaped by both frontline work and executive leadership.

Born in Germany and raised in Canada, Elsner developed discipline early through sport and community involvement. He competed in wrestling at a high level in school and later pursued higher education while working full time. He earned a Political Science degree from Lakehead University and, more recently, a Master of Public Administration from Western University.

Elsner began his career in policing in the early 1980s. He served with the RCMP, Ontario Provincial Police, and Thunder Bay Police, where he worked in undercover operations, investigations, intelligence, and tactical units. He later moved into senior leadership, serving as Deputy Chief and then Chief of Police in Greater Sudbury.

In these roles, he helped shape organisational strategy and public safety initiatives. He also held leadership positions with provincial policing and intelligence bodies, including the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and the Criminal Intelligence Service of Ontario.

After leaving policing, Elsner transitioned into the private sector. He founded a consulting firm and later took on a senior corporate role. He is now Chief of Safety and Security for Natural Factors Group of Companies.

Alongside his career, Elsner has remained active in community service, serving on boards and supporting charitable organisations. His work reflects a consistent focus on leadership, accountability, and making a practical difference.

Frank Elsner on Leadership, Policing, and Building a Career Across Sectors

Q: You started your career in policing quite early. What drew you into that field?

I’ve always been interested in structure and teamwork. Growing up, I was very active in sport. I wrestled competitively and was ranked in the province. That taught me discipline. I also served as student council president, so leadership came early. Policing felt like a natural path where those skills mattered.

Q: Your early career covered several roles. What stands out from that period?

I worked across different services, starting with the RCMP and then moving into provincial and municipal policing. In Thunder Bay, I had the chance to work in many areas. I was an undercover officer, a detective, and part of intelligence and tactical teams. That variety gave me a broad view of how policing really works.

Q: You also trained as a diver quite young. Did that influence your career?

Yes, I became a qualified expert diver at 17. That later connected to my role as a Dive Master in policing. It taught me to stay calm under pressure and to think clearly in difficult situations. Those skills carried over into leadership roles later on.

Q: You eventually moved into senior leadership positions. How did that transition happen?

It was gradual. I moved into supervisory roles and then into executive leadership. I became Deputy Chief in Owen Sound and later in Greater Sudbury. In 2009, I was appointed Chief of Police. At that stage, the focus shifts from operations to strategy, people, and long-term planning.

Q: What were some key challenges as Chief of Police?

Balancing operational demands with community expectations is always complex. You have to manage resources, support your officers, and maintain public trust. It’s not just about enforcement. It’s about relationships and accountability.

Q: You also held roles at the provincial level. What did that involve?

I served as Vice President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and chaired the Criminal Intelligence Service of Ontario. Those roles focused on coordination across jurisdictions. Crime doesn’t stay within boundaries, so collaboration is critical.

Q: After policing, you moved into the private sector. Why make that shift?

I wanted to apply what I had learned in a different environment. I founded Umbra Strategic Solutions, which focused on consulting and leadership. Later, I took on a corporate role. Today, I serve as Chief of Safety and Security for Natural Factors Group of Companies.

Q: How different is corporate security compared to policing?

There are similarities in risk management and planning. But the environment is different. In business, you are aligning safety with operations and organisational goals. It requires a broader view of how systems and people interact.

Q: You completed a Master’s degree later in your career. What motivated that?

I went to Lakehead as a mature student and completed my degree while working full time. More recently, I completed a Master of Public Administration. I’ve always believed in continuous learning. It helps you stay relevant and improve how you lead.

Q: You’ve also been active in community organisations. Why is that important to you?

Community work has always been part of my life. I’ve served on boards like the Sudbury Food Bank and Health Sciences North. These roles keep you connected to real issues. Leadership isn’t just about your job. It’s about contributing where you can.

Q: You’ve given a TEDx talk titled “Go Ahead, Make a Difference.” What message were you trying to share?

The idea was simple. People often wait for the right moment or the right position to act. But you can make a difference at any level. It starts with small decisions and consistent effort.

Q: Looking back, how would you describe your career overall?

It’s been about progression and learning. From frontline work to executive roles, and now into the private sector, each step built on the last. The common thread has been leadership and service.

Read more:
From Tactical Units to Boardrooms: Frank Elsner’s Evolving Career

Betpanda emerges as a vibrant destination where players can explore a dynamic gaming universe, enjoy seamless navigation, and experience a sense of control over their play.

Whether you are a seasoned bettor or someone stepping into online gaming for the first time, Betpanda offers a balanced environment that feels both welcoming and engaging.

A Platform Designed with the Player in Mind

What sets Betpanda apart is its commitment to simplicity without sacrificing sophistication. From the moment you enter the platform, the interface feels intuitive. Menus are clean, categories are clearly defined, and games are easy to locate. This thoughtful design allows players to focus on what truly matters, which is enjoying the experience.

Betpanda understands that modern users value speed and convenience. The platform is optimized for both desktop and mobile devices, ensuring that gameplay remains smooth whether you are at home or on the move. This flexibility adds a layer of comfort that enhances the overall user journey.

A Diverse Library of Games

Variety is the heart of any successful gaming platform, and play at Betpanda does not disappoint. The platform hosts an impressive selection of games that cater to different preferences and skill levels. From classic table games to modern slot adventures, there is always something new to explore.

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Additionally, the platform frequently updates its game collection, keeping the experience fresh and aligned with current trends. This ongoing evolution reflects a deep understanding of player expectations.

Secure and Transparent Environment

Trust is a crucial factor in online gaming, and Betpanda takes this responsibility seriously. The platform incorporates advanced security measures to protect user data and financial transactions. Players can engage with confidence, knowing that their information is handled with care.

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Smooth Payment Options

A seamless financial system can greatly enhance user satisfaction. Betpanda offers multiple payment methods, allowing players to deposit and withdraw funds with ease. The process is designed to be quick and efficient, minimizing delays and reducing frustration.

Flexibility in payment options also means that users from different regions can find methods that suit their needs. This inclusivity adds to the platform’s global appeal.

Bonuses and Promotions That Add Value

One of the most exciting aspects of playing at Betpanda is the range of bonuses and promotions available. These offers provide players with additional opportunities to extend their gameplay and explore more features.

Welcome bonuses create a strong first impression, while ongoing promotions reward loyal users. Instead of feeling like temporary incentives, these bonuses become part of a larger experience that encourages continued engagement.

However, it is always wise for players to review the terms associated with each offer. Understanding the conditions ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Responsible Gaming Approach

While the thrill of gaming can be captivating, Betpanda promotes a balanced approach. The platform encourages responsible gaming practices, reminding users to play within their limits. This focus on well-being reflects a mature and ethical perspective.

Features that allow players to manage their time and spending contribute to a healthier gaming environment. By prioritizing responsibility, Betpanda creates a space where entertainment remains positive and controlled.

Customer Support That Listens

Even the most well-designed platforms can present occasional challenges, which is why reliable customer support is essential. Betpanda offers responsive assistance to help users resolve issues quickly.

Support channels are accessible and designed to provide clear solutions. Whether it is a technical question or a payment inquiry, players can expect prompt and helpful responses. This level of care strengthens trust and enhances the overall experience.

A Community Driven Experience

Beyond games and features, Betpanda fosters a sense of community. Players are not just users but participants in a shared environment. This subtle yet powerful aspect adds depth to the platform.

Engaging with others, exploring new games together, and sharing experiences creates a more immersive atmosphere. It transforms gaming from a solitary activity into a connected journey.

Final Thoughts

Playing at Betpanda is more than just placing bets or spinning reels. It is about entering a thoughtfully crafted digital space where entertainment meets reliability. The platform’s combination of diverse games, secure systems, user-friendly design, and responsible practices makes it a compelling choice for modern players.

As the online gaming industry continues to grow, platforms like Betpanda stand out by focusing on what truly matters. A smooth experience, a sense of trust, and the freedom to enjoy gaming on your own terms. For those seeking a refined and engaging environment, Betpanda offers a journey worth exploring.

Read more:
Play at Betpanda: A Modern Gaming Experience Built for Smart Players

A UK technology company has secured a major $200 million contract with US authorities to deploy advanced fibre-optic sensing systems along American borders, marking a significant milestone for British-developed security technology on the global stage.

Sintela, headquartered in Bristol, will provide its “listening” infrastructure to support operations led by US Customs and Border Protection, expanding an initial $34 million agreement signed in 2020.

The three-year deal represents a substantial scale-up of the company’s capabilities and highlights growing demand for AI-driven monitoring systems in border security and critical infrastructure protection.

Sintela’s technology is based on distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), which uses fibre-optic cables to detect and interpret vibrations and sounds across long distances.

By attaching to existing fibre networks, the system can identify specific activities such as footsteps, digging, fence cutting or climbing, all in real time. The data is then analysed using artificial intelligence models that classify and prioritise potential threats.

The approach offers a significant advantage over traditional surveillance methods, particularly in remote or large-scale environments where installing and monitoring cameras would be impractical or prohibitively expensive.

Chief executive Magnus McEwen-King described the contract as a breakthrough moment for the company and the wider technology.

“We are inventing things others can’t do and are now deploying them at scale,” he said, calling the development a “quirky British success story”.

While the US-Mexico border is a key focus, Sintela’s systems are already deployed across multiple international borders, as well as in maritime environments.

Beyond border security, the technology is being used to protect critical infrastructure, including subsea pipelines, power lines and transport networks. Through a joint venture with SLB, the sensors have been installed on offshore pipelines to detect potential sabotage.

In urban environments, the same technology is being applied to monitor water networks for leaks and to assess wear and tear on railways and roads. In parts of Africa, it is being used by utilities to detect attempts to dismantle electricity pylons.

The technology originated from research at the University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre, with several of the original researchers now forming part of Sintela’s team.

Since its founding in 2017, the company has grown steadily, reaching revenues of around £13 million in 2023 and expanding its international footprint with offices in the US, including a recent $10 million investment in its Michigan operations.

The new contract is expected to support further expansion, with Sintela having already recruited 50 additional staff across the UK and US and planning to hire another 50 in the near future.

The growth reflects increasing demand for technologies that combine physical infrastructure with digital intelligence, particularly in areas such as security, energy and transportation.

The deal underscores the rising importance of advanced sensing technologies in addressing complex security challenges, from border control to infrastructure resilience.

It also highlights the UK’s strength in deep-tech innovation, particularly in fields that combine academic research with commercial application.

As geopolitical tensions and infrastructure risks continue to evolve, demand for scalable, cost-effective monitoring solutions is expected to grow.

For Sintela, the $200 million contract represents not only a commercial milestone but also a validation of its technology at scale, positioning the company as a leading player in a rapidly emerging sector.

For the UK, it is another example of how homegrown innovation can compete globally, translating cutting-edge research into real-world applications with international impact.

Read more:
UK tech firm Sintela lands $200m US border security deal

WHOOP has raised $575 million in fresh funding at a $10.1 billion valuation, as it accelerates its ambition to build a global platform for personalised, preventative healthcare powered by artificial intelligence and biometric data.

The Series G round was led by Collaborative Fund and drew participation from a broad mix of institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds and healthcare leaders, including Qatar Investment Authority and Mubadala Investment Company. Strategic backing also came from Abbott and Mayo Clinic, highlighting growing convergence between technology and traditional healthcare systems.

The round also attracted high-profile individual investors from the worlds of sport and entertainment, including Cristiano Ronaldo, LeBron James and Rory McIlroy, reflecting WHOOP’s strong association with elite performance and wellness.

The investment comes at a time when healthcare systems globally are under increasing strain from rising rates of chronic disease and ageing populations. WHOOP is positioning itself at the forefront of a shift from reactive treatment to preventative, data-driven health management.

Founder and chief executive Will Ahmed said the company is building a platform designed to help individuals monitor, understand and improve their health continuously.

“We are creating a personal health system that enables people to improve both their performance and long-term wellbeing,” he said.

At the core of the platform is continuous biometric monitoring, combined with AI models trained on more than 24 billion hours of physiological data. This allows WHOOP to deliver personalised insights into sleep, recovery, stress and physical performance, as well as early indicators of potential health risks.

WHOOP has experienced strong growth in recent years, with more than 2.5 million members globally and bookings rising 103 per cent in 2025 to reach a $1.1 billion run rate. The company also reported positive operating cash flow during the year, underlining its financial momentum.

The new funding will support further expansion across key international markets, including Europe, the Gulf region, Latin America and Asia, as well as continued growth in the United States.

To support this expansion, WHOOP plans to hire more than 600 additional employees globally, focusing on research, development and product innovation.

The involvement of established healthcare organisations such as Abbott signals a broader shift towards integrating consumer technology with clinical expertise.

By combining wearable technology with advanced analytics, WHOOP aims to provide a more holistic view of health, enabling users to make informed decisions about their lifestyle and potentially prevent serious conditions before they develop.

The platform’s high engagement levels, with users opening the app multiple times per day, highlight the growing demand for real-time health insights that go beyond traditional fitness tracking.

While WHOOP initially gained traction among athletes and high-performance individuals, the company is now targeting a broader audience, including executives, professionals and consumers seeking to optimise both health and productivity.

The focus is increasingly on “healthspan”, the length of time individuals remain healthy and active, rather than simply lifespan.

Cristiano Ronaldo, an investor and ambassador, described the platform as a key tool in managing his own health, reflecting its positioning at the intersection of performance and wellbeing.

The latest funding round reinforces WHOOP’s position as one of the most valuable players in the rapidly expanding digital health sector.

As advances in AI and data analytics continue to reshape healthcare, companies that can combine technology, user engagement and clinical relevance are expected to play a central role in the future of the industry.

For WHOOP, the challenge now is to scale its platform globally while maintaining accuracy, trust and regulatory compliance, transforming wearable data into meaningful, actionable health outcomes at scale.

Read more:
WHOOP raises $575m at $10bn valuation to scale global health platform

YouTube has been ranked the world’s most influential brand, as technology companies continue to dominate global media and public discourse, according to a new report.

The 2026 Brand Influence Rank from Onclusive found that digital-first platforms occupy every position in the global top 10, reflecting their unrivalled ability to shape narratives across both traditional and social media.

Joining YouTube at the top of the rankings are Google, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, TikTok and ChatGPT, underscoring the structural advantage these businesses hold in driving attention at scale.

The report measures influence not by size alone, but by a brand’s ability to generate sustained media coverage, spark conversation and shape public perception globally.

Digital platforms, with their always-on engagement and vast user bases, are uniquely positioned to dominate this landscape. Their central role in communication, content distribution and increasingly artificial intelligence gives them a powerful edge over traditional brands.

Jennifer Roberts, chief marketing officer at Onclusive, said the findings reflect a fundamental shift in how influence is defined.

“Influence is no longer just about reputation, it’s about the ability to generate continuous attention across multiple channels,” she said, noting that the rise of AI-driven search and content is accelerating this trend.

One of the most notable developments in the rankings is the entry of ChatGPT into the global top 10 for the first time, highlighting the rapid ascent of AI-focused brands.

Alongside Microsoft, AI platforms are generating disproportionate levels of media coverage, driven by innovation, competition and ongoing debate around regulation, ethics and the future of work.

However, this visibility comes with a trade-off. The report identifies a “sentiment ceiling” affecting many leading tech brands, where high levels of scrutiny limit positive perception despite strong influence.

Companies such as Google, Facebook, Apple and TikTok all recorded relatively modest positive sentiment scores, reflecting ongoing regulatory pressures, antitrust investigations and concerns over platform governance.

The report also highlights the growing role of corporate leaders in shaping brand narratives.

Elon Musk was ranked the world’s most influential CEO, with a media presence nearly ten times greater than his closest competitor. His influence is driven by his involvement across multiple high-profile companies, including Tesla, SpaceX and the social platform X, combined with a highly visible and often polarising public persona.

Sam Altman ranked second, reflecting the central role of artificial intelligence in global discourse. His prominence has grown rapidly as AI has become a defining topic in business, politics and society.

Other influential leaders include Mark Zuckerberg, Jensen Huang and Tim Cook, each contributing to their companies’ visibility through strategic positioning in key technology sectors.

The report underscores a key tension in modern brand building: influence does not necessarily equate to positive sentiment.

While tech companies dominate attention and conversation, they also face intense scrutiny over issues ranging from data privacy and competition to the societal impact of their technologies.

This dynamic creates a balancing act for brands, which must manage both visibility and trust in an increasingly complex media environment.

As digital platforms and AI continue to reshape how information is created, distributed and consumed, their dominance in global influence rankings is likely to persist.

However, with that influence comes heightened responsibility, and greater scrutiny.

For brands, the challenge is no longer simply to be seen, but to be trusted.

Read more:
YouTube named world’s most influential brand as tech dominance grows

Innovate UK has unveiled the winners of its inaugural Agentic AI Pioneers Prize, marking a major step in the government’s ambition to position Britain as a global leader in next-generation artificial intelligence.

The competition, delivered in partnership with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, attracted more than 200 applications from across the UK’s high-growth sectors, highlighting the depth of innovation in areas such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare and the creative industries.

Designed to accelerate the commercialisation of “agentic AI”, systems capable of acting autonomously, collaborating with humans and managing complex workflows, the prize aims to support companies developing real-world applications of the technology.

The top award of £500,000 was granted to Danu Insights for its “Agentic Digital Twin Builder for the Life Sciences” platform.

The technology enables researchers to simulate biological systems and identify the most promising experimental pathways, helping to address growing complexity in drug discovery and biomanufacturing. By integrating modelling, validation and experiment planning into a single system, the platform is designed to reduce costs and accelerate the development of new therapies.

The judges highlighted its potential to deliver faster, more efficient and more sustainable innovation across the life sciences sector.

Two additional awards of £250,000 were presented to companies operating in advanced manufacturing and the creative industries.

In manufacturing, Singular Machine was recognised for CoEngen, a multi-agent engineering platform that coordinates design processes across disciplines using shared data models. The system allows engineers to optimise complex systems more quickly while maintaining traceability and safety standards.

In the creative sector, Tellme was awarded for a solution that delivers real-time, personalised museum experiences via smartphones. The platform enables visitors to interact with exhibits dynamically, receiving tailored information without the need for additional hardware, potentially transforming how audiences engage with cultural spaces.

Agentic AI represents a shift beyond traditional automation, focusing on systems that can take initiative, adapt to changing conditions and collaborate with human users. Applications range from industrial design and regulatory compliance to clinical decision-making and immersive digital experiences.

The competition demonstrated how these capabilities are already being applied to solve practical challenges, rather than remaining confined to theoretical research.

Sara El-Hanfy, head of AI and machine learning at Innovate UK, said the prize is intended to help promising companies move from early-stage innovation to scalable deployment.

“Our ambition is to support the companies set to shape the future of agentic AI and unlock its potential to drive growth across key sectors,” she said.

The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to position the UK at the forefront of AI development, particularly in areas where advanced technologies can deliver economic and societal impact.

By targeting sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare and creative industries, the programme aligns with the government’s industrial strategy priorities, focusing on areas where the UK has both strong research capabilities and commercial potential.

As AI continues to evolve, the emphasis is shifting from experimentation to implementation, with businesses seeking technologies that can deliver measurable productivity gains and competitive advantage.

The Agentic AI Pioneers Prize highlights how UK startups are beginning to translate cutting-edge research into practical solutions, with the potential to reshape industries and drive economic growth.

For Innovate UK, the challenge now is to ensure these early successes translate into scalable businesses capable of competing globally, reinforcing the UK’s position in the rapidly intensifying race for AI leadership.

Read more:
Innovate UK names winners of first Agentic AI pioneers prize

Maven Capital Partners has successfully exited Manchester-based fintech AccessPay following its acquisition by US investment firm Accel-KKR, delivering a 2.5x return for investors in the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund I.

The transaction marks a significant milestone for both AccessPay and the wider Northern fintech ecosystem, underscoring the growing strength of technology businesses outside London and the role of regional investment funds in scaling high-growth companies.

Maven first backed AccessPay in 2018 through the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF), investing £1 million to support the company’s expansion. The funding enabled the business to scale operations, invest in talent and accelerate revenue growth at a critical stage in its development.

Since then, AccessPay has grown into a leading provider of bank integration software, connecting corporate finance systems directly to banking networks and enabling automated, structured payment and reconciliation processes.

The platform is now used by more than 1,000 organisations globally, reflecting strong demand for solutions that streamline financial operations and improve data accuracy.

The acquisition by Accel-KKR is expected to support AccessPay’s next phase of growth, including the development of new products and an accelerated acquisition strategy.

The US-based investor specialises in technology businesses and is likely to bring both capital and operational expertise to help expand AccessPay’s presence in international markets and strengthen its enterprise offering.

Anish Kapoor, (pictured) chief executive of AccessPay, said Maven’s early backing had been instrumental in the company’s growth.

“Maven supported us at a key point when we were scaling our market presence, and that foundation has helped us reach over 1,000 customers globally,” he said.

AccessPay’s growth highlights the increasing importance of regional fintech hubs, particularly in Greater Manchester, which contributes more than £1 billion annually to the UK economy.

The company has established itself as one of the fastest-growing fintech businesses outside London, gaining recognition for its innovation in bank connectivity and enterprise payments infrastructure.

Jeremy Thompson, partner at Maven, said the exit reflects the strength of the business built during the investment period.

“This transaction is a testament to the company’s leadership and the solid financial foundation established over the years,” he said.

The deal also illustrates the impact of public-private investment partnerships in supporting early-stage companies.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, backed by the British Business Bank, has played a key role in providing growth capital to businesses across the North of England.

Debbie Sorby of the British Business Bank said the exit demonstrates the value of equity finance in helping companies scale and succeed.

“This is a testament to AccessPay’s success and highlights the strength of the Northern fintech ecosystem,” she said, noting that further support will continue through the next phase of the fund.

For AccessPay, the acquisition represents a transition from scale-up to global expansion, with increased resources to compete in a rapidly evolving financial technology market.

For Maven and its investors, the 2.5x return reinforces the case for backing high-potential regional businesses early and supporting them through to exit.

As demand for digital financial infrastructure continues to grow, deals such as this are likely to become more common, reflecting both the maturity of the UK fintech sector and the increasing global appetite for scalable technology platforms.

Read more:
Maven exits AccessPay in private equity deal delivering 2.5x return

Moody’s assignment of a Ba3 rating with a stable outlook to Freedom Bank Kazakhstan serves not only as an assessment of its current condition but also as a reflection of its role within a broader framework.

The bank’s baseline credit assessment is set at b1 and reflects its current stage of development and growth dynamics. The bank is actively expanding its retail lending business by developing mortgage and auto loan products, gradually reducing its reliance on investment and trading operations.

Credit quality is assessed as stable: the share of non-performing loans is less than 3%, while the provision coverage ratio exceeds 100%. Capitalization and liquidity are at comfortable levels, although as the business grows, pressure on capital ratios and the cost of funding may increase.

Separately, Moody’s highlights a factor that goes beyond traditional banking analysis: the bank’s integration into the Freedom ecosystem. Freedom Bank is part of Freedom Holding Corp., which consolidates assets in Kazakhstan, Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East. This model provides access to international capital markets, technological solutions, and management expertise, strengthening the bank’s resilience and supporting its further development.

Global Focus: Where Freedom Holding Is Growing

The development of the Freedom Holding ecosystem is directly linked to the expansion of its business footprint. Today, the company operates in 21 countries, and its total assets exceed $10 billion.

Central Asia remains a key region, where Freedom Holding Corp. is systematically integrating its banking and investment services. A unified product model is being developed in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and a fully digital bank focused on remote customer service is already operating in Tajikistan.

In the Caucasus, the company is represented in Armenia and is simultaneously working on launching banking projects in Georgia. This direction is viewed as a logical continuation of regional expansion.

Beyond the post-Soviet space, Freedom Holding is also strengthening its international presence. In 2025, the company obtained a license as a professional participant in the securities market in Abu Dhabi, which opened access to the Middle Eastern market and marked an important step in business diversification.

One of the most promising areas for further growth is Turkey. The holding company is considering the acquisition of TurkishBank: the current shareholders have already agreed to sell a controlling stake, and the deal is currently awaiting regulatory approval. The potential buyer is Freedom’s Turkish subsidiary.

At the same time, Freedom Holding Corp. is evaluating opportunities to enter the Pakistani market while continuing to strengthen its position in the U.S. and Europe. Thus, geographic expansion has become an integral part of the strategy aimed at scaling the ecosystem and entering new markets.

The Ecosystem and SuperApp as a Unified Model

Freedom Holding Corp. is consistently developing an ecosystem-based approach, in which the key product is not a standalone service but a comprehensive digital environment. This includes banking, investment, insurance, and technology services, all integrated into a single platform.

This model allows for the formation of a sustainable customer base and deeper engagement with users. Customers gain access to a wide range of services within a single ecosystem, while the company benefits from a more balanced and diversified revenue structure.

The bank plays a central role in this system, providing the financial infrastructure—from payments and transfers to lending—and serves as the foundation of the entire digital platform.

A key element of the ecosystem is the Freedom SuperApp—a single application that combines financial and everyday services. Users can manage accounts, make transfers, invest, receive cashback, and take advantage of additional features—from travel to interacting with government services.

Integration with government databases allows customers to apply for financial products—including mortgages and auto loans—remotely and entirely online, often within a single day. Multi-currency cards and fast international transfers are also available.

The use of biometric identification significantly simplifies access to services and speeds up transactions, minimizing the need to visit branches. At the same time, the platform’s functionality is regularly expanding through the implementation of new digital solutions.

The app’s user base is growing rapidly: the number of Freedom SuperApp users has reached 5 million, increasing by one million in just a few months. This growth confirms the high demand for a unified digital platform that combines financial and everyday services within a single user experience.

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Freedom Holding Corp.: Moody’s Rates Freedom Bank on Stability, Growth and Ecosystem Model

Gone are the days when, to enjoy a creamy cappuccino, you had to pick out an outfit, smooth out your morning hair, convince a friend to join you, then head to your neighbourhood café and wait for the barista to whip it up for you.

You can still do that if you want to, of course—but it seems like less and less of us do.

Cafés are what sparked our love for coffee, yet we eventually grew to adore our daily cup of joe so much that we’ve now gone ahead and moved it straight into our homes. How, and why, did this happen? How did coffee shift from something enjoyed strictly while out and about to a ritual so personal no barista can quite replicate it? Let’s try and trace the reasons behind this tranformation—and possibly grow to appreciate our familiar home brewing routines even more along the way.

Control and Comfort over Café Convenience

The growing preference that coffee drinkers show towards a home-brewed cuppa isn’t anecdotal; it’s statistical. In the U.S., for example, home coffee consumption is reported to have grown from 79% to 85% between 2017 and 2021. A similar trend is observed in Europe, and it doesn’t seem like it’s going to slow down anytime soon.

What’s the story behind the statistics? It’s, predictably, the pandemic. With access to our favourite coffee shops having suddenly been limited, the brewing ritual had nowhere else to go but home. We’ve built new routines around our daily cuppa; we’ve bought coffee makers, milk frothers, and grinders; we’ve had plenty of time to experiment and eventually find out that, with some practice, homemade cappuccinos can be just as good as those served at trendy cafés! There’s no rush, no queueing, no upcharge for almond milk… No wonder that, when the coffee shops reopened, some of us have lost the taste for the café experience already.

Growing demand for home brewing equipment has meant a growing supply of reliable, affordable, user-friendly gadgets. Armed with smart coffee machines, handy barista tools, electric milk frothers, and high-precision grinders, we’re now able to tailor homemade brews to our exact taste with ease. The quiet domestic ritual of making ourselves a cuppa is that much more customisable, putting nobody else but us behind the steering wheel—or rather the portafilter. To put it simply, with home brewing being much easier to master, there’s quite simply no reason not to!

From Social Spaces to Social Media

In addition to steering us back towards our homes, the pandemic guided us onto social media platforms. Clubs, pubs, restaurants and cafés were replaced by Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. With our ability to connect physically being restricted, social media turned into a veritable social hub, a means to share our lives with others and see what they are up to—so, instead of chatting over a cup of coffee, we were now sending pictures of our home-brewed creations back and forth.

Coffee has retained its social aspect, but the ways in which we socialise have changed. Nowadays, the visual appeal of coffee is as important as its flavour. Sure, you can snap a photo of the latest concoction that Starbucks has come up with… But how much cooler is it to grace your Instagram wall with a picture of your very own, carefully curated home coffee corner, or a caramel latte you can proudly say you’ve whipped up yourself? Whether it’s dalgona coffee, matcha latte, or espresso tonic, home brewing is the latest trend, turning our kitchens into personalised coffee spaces that are meant to be shared, seen, and admired online.

Brew-It-Yourself: Coffee as a Craft

Not only has there been a shift in how we share our coffee experiences—the manner in which we craft them is now different too. While previous generations saw coffee primarily as a ready-made product sold at cafés, the young people of today tend to view it as a DIY project. This is part of a broader “do-it-yourself” trend: tired of mass-produced, standardised items, Gen Z and millennials alike have grown to value the custom-made and the authentic, as well as to appreciate the opportunity to gain a new skill offered by DIY undertakings.

More than just a caffeinated beverage, our daily cup of coffee is nowadays a chance to express ourselves. How we brew and consume it is part of our identity—and this identity is far more unique and original when it isn’t in the hands of a barista. Choosing to prepare coffee at home has turned into a statement, a mark of somebody who refuses to settle for the bare minimum, and instead is on the lookout for one-of-a-kind experiences that can only be forged in the comfort of a familiar kitchen. From graceful Chemex rituals to countertop milk frothers for that silky-smooth milk foam, the way in which we craft our coffee is now more than ever part of who we are.

Hooray for Home Brews!

Whether it’s a chatty cuppa at a corner café or an elaborate home brewing ritual, it’s clear that coffee isn’t going anywhere. In fact, by moving into our kitchens, it further cemented its role in our daily lives. All that’s left for us to do is go ahead and enjoy it: housemates this good are rare to come by, after all!

Read more:
From Cafés to Kitchens: Why Are New Coffee Rituals Moving into Our Homes?