Business

Miami-based alternative investment firm HIG Capital has launched a self-storage platform in Italy, marking its third European market entry in the sector following established operations in the United Kingdom and Germany.

The firm completed acquisitions of five facilities across Milan and Rome, signaling continued confidence in European real estate opportunities despite broader market uncertainty.

The platform, branded as Boxengo, will open its first two Milan locations before year-end, with three additional sites—two in Milan and one in Rome—scheduled to begin operations throughout 2026. Industry veteran William Binella, who brings more than 25 years of sector experience, will lead the new venture as chief executive officer.

HIG Capital, founded in 1993 by Sami Mnaymneh and Tony Tamer, manages $70 billion in capital across multiple investment strategies. The firm has increasingly directed resources toward operationally intensive real estate sectors where supply constraints create attractive returns. Self-storage fits this profile, particularly in densely populated European metropolitan areas where residential space limitations drive demand for auxiliary storage solutions.

HIG Capital’s Real Estate Strategy Takes Shape

The Italian expansion reflects a broader pattern in HIG’s recent dealmaking. Over the past year, the firm has pursued value-add real estate opportunities across Europe, including logistics facilities in France and life sciences campuses in Cambridge. These investments share common characteristics: undersupplied markets, operational complexity, and potential for value creation through active management rather than financial engineering alone.

Self-storage presents specific advantages. The sector demonstrated resilience during economic downturns, as consumers and businesses require storage during relocations, downsizing, or business transitions. Italy’s fragmented market offers consolidation opportunities, while urban density in Milan and Rome creates natural demand centers. Unlike commercial office space, which faces structural challenges from remote work trends, self-storage occupancy rates have remained stable across European markets.

Riccardo Dallolio, managing director and head of HIG Realty in Europe, characterized self-storage as “operationally intensive and undersupplied,” suggesting the firm sees room for both market consolidation and operational improvements. Alessio Lucentini, managing director and head of asset management for HIG Realty in Europe, emphasized building “a next-generation, operationally innovative self-storage platform built on high-quality assets.”

Broader Market Context

HIG’s Italian move comes as private equity firms face pressure to deploy capital in an environment where traditional leveraged buyouts have become more expensive. Rising interest rates have increased financing costs, while economic uncertainty has complicated exit timing. Real estate, particularly in niche sectors like self-storage, offers an alternative path: lower leverage requirements, predictable cash flows, and longer hold periods that align with current market conditions.

The firm’s recent activity extends beyond real estate. HIG completed the $400 million acquisition of 4Refuel, a mobile refueling company, in July 2025. Earlier in the year, the firm merged technology solutions providers Converge and Mainline into a new entity called Pellera Technologies, creating a $4 billion revenue platform. The firm also launched a GP Solutions Platform focused on secondary market transactions, hiring a team from Morgan Stanley’s private equity unit.

These moves suggest HIG is pursuing a multi-pronged strategy: consolidating fragmented industries, executing corporate carve-outs, and building platforms that benefit from operational expertise rather than financial leverage alone. The approach appears calculated to navigate an uncertain exit environment while maintaining deployment pace.

Italy’s self-storage market remains less developed than counterparts in the U.S. or U.K., where per-capita availability exceeds European averages by substantial margins. This gap represents opportunity for early movers who can establish brand recognition and operational scale before competition intensifies. Boxengo’s focus on Milan and Rome targets the country’s largest metropolitan areas, where population density and real estate prices create favorable conditions for the business model.

Whether HIG can successfully transplant operational practices from its U.K. and German platforms to Italy remains to be seen. Each market presents distinct regulatory environments, consumer behaviors, and competitive dynamics. Success will likely depend on execution—site selection, pricing strategy, and the ability to scale efficiently while maintaining service quality.

The firm’s track record suggests confidence in this formula. Since 1993, HIG has invested in more than 400 companies worldwide, with a current portfolio exceeding 100 companies and combined sales surpassing $53 billion. The Italian self-storage venture represents another test of whether operational expertise can drive returns in markets where financial engineering has become less reliable.

Read more:
HIG Capital Expands European Self-Storage Portfolio with Italian Market Entry

Founded in 2005, Seal Skin Covers has grown from a small New York start-up into one of America’s most trusted names in protective covers.

What began as a modest venture by a team of outdoor and automotive enthusiasts has evolved into a leading national brand, serving nearly a million customers across the United States.

From the start, their goal was simple — to build waterproof, durable, and affordable covers that actually protect. Frustrated by the poor quality of existing products, the founders took a hands-on approach, developing materials that could withstand real-world conditions like snow, sun, and salt. Their persistence paid off.

Over time, Seal Skin Covers introduced semi-custom and custom-fit designs that redefined what customers could expect from a cover. By listening carefully to customer feedback, they turned early challenges into opportunities for innovation. “Every review teaches us something new,” they’ve said. “We learn, we improve, and we build better products.”

The company’s name reflects its mission. Just as a seal’s skin protects it from the harshest environments, Seal Skin Covers products safeguard what matters most — from vehicles and boats to patio furniture.

Today, they are known not only for product quality but also for promoting sustainability and longevity. “Replacing something every few years wastes money and creates waste,” the founders note. “Protect what you have, and it will last longer.”

With innovation, trust, and resilience at its core, Seal Skin Covers continues to lead the industry in practical, lasting protection.

Q&A with Seal Skin Covers Reviews

How did Seal Skin Covers begin?

We started back in 2005 in New York. At the time, we were just a small team of outdoor and automotive enthusiasts who were frustrated by the covers available on the market. They either didn’t last or didn’t truly protect. Vehicles, boats, and even patio furniture were being damaged by the weather, and customers had no reliable, affordable solution. We decided to build one ourselves.

What inspired the name Seal Skin Covers?

The name came naturally. We wanted something that represented protection and endurance. A seal’s skin shields it from harsh environments — the cold, the salt, the water. That’s exactly what we wanted our products to do. It’s a reminder of our purpose every time we see the logo.

What were some of the early challenges?

In the beginning, trust was the biggest hurdle. The market was crowded with cheap, one-size-fits-all covers, and people were sceptical that affordable products could also be durable. We had to prove ourselves one customer at a time. Listening to feedback became our greatest advantage. When customers said fit mattered, we invested in semi-custom and custom-fit options. That decision changed everything.

How has customer feedback shaped your products?

Completely. Every improvement we’ve made started with a customer comment or review. Some people told us their covers didn’t fit perfectly; others shared stories of their cars or boats surviving storms without a scratch. We treat that feedback as research. It guides how we design, test, and improve each model.

What do you think makes Seal Skin Covers stand out?

It’s our commitment to fit, durability, and affordability. We don’t believe protection should be a luxury. Our products are designed for everyday people who care about their investments. Thousands of five-star reviews show that customers see the difference.

You’ve mentioned expanding into new categories — what drove that decision?

We realised protection isn’t just about cars or boats anymore. People want to protect their outdoor furniture, motorcycles, even equipment. So, we expanded our product line. If something needs to be covered, Seal Skin Covers will provide the solution. That’s been our guiding vision from the start.

How do you measure success?

Success, for us, isn’t just sales or awards — it’s trust. When a customer tells us, “This cover saved my boat through the winter,” that’s success. Reaching nearly a million customers across the country is an amazing milestone, but what matters most is knowing we’ve earned their confidence.

Sustainability seems to play a role in your philosophy. Can you tell us more?

Yes, absolutely. We believe protecting what you already own is one of the simplest ways to live more sustainably. Replacing something every few years not only costs more but also adds to waste. Our mission is to help people extend the life of their belongings — whether that’s a vehicle or a piece of furniture. Protection is conservation.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?

Listen more than you speak. When customers talk, they’re giving you a roadmap for improvement. Also, never underestimate small beginnings. We started with one idea in a garage, and now we’re a national brand. Growth takes time, patience, and resilience.

What’s next for Seal Skin Covers?
We’re continuing to innovate — improving materials, expanding into new product categories, and finding new ways to serve customers better. The goal remains the same: waterproof, durable, and perfectly fitted protection that people can rely on.

Finally, what drives you personally to keep going after nearly two decades?

The trust of our customers. Reading reviews and seeing photos of how our covers protect what people love most — that’s the reward. Growth never stops; every day is a chance to build something better.

Read more:
Seal Skin Covers Reviews: A Story of Protection and Progress

Trends can make or break a brand. One viral post can put a business in front of millions overnight. But as quickly as the views rise, they can fall.

The real skill isn’t going viral; it’s staying relevant once the noise fades. The brands that last are the ones that see trends early, act fast, and know how to turn fleeting attention into lasting connections.

Spot Trends Before Everyone Else

Every trend starts as a whisper before it becomes a roar. The trick is tuning in early. Social platforms are ecosystems of signals, and some are easier to read than others.

Start with TikTok’s “For You” page and Instagram’s Reels feed, but don’t just scroll for entertainment. Notice patterns. Are certain sounds or editing styles repeating? Are particular phrases or aesthetics showing up across different creators? These small signs are the early sparks of a bigger movement.

That’s where a tiktok marketing company can provide structure, helping teams build listening systems and interpret signals without getting lost in the noise.

Know Which Trends Fit the Brand

Not every trend deserves attention. Jumping on the wrong one can feel forced and confuse loyal audiences.

Before joining in, ask three simple questions:

Does this trend connect to the brand’s values?
Would the target audience find it funny, interesting, or valuable?
Can the brand add something original to the conversation?

If a trend doesn’t fit, skip it. Consistency builds trust, and audiences notice when brands chase attention for its own sake.

Move Fast, But Stay Authentic

The internet moves quickly. By the time a trend hits mainstream media, it’s already halfway out the door. That means brands need quick decision-making systems to capture the moment while it still matters.

Create a small internal task force dedicated to social response. Give them the autonomy to spot, plan, and post without waiting for lengthy approvals. A process map helps define who identifies the trend, who approves the creative, and who publishes it. This cuts hours or even days from reaction time.

However, speed should never come at the cost of authenticity. A brand’s social presence is an ongoing relationship, not a series of stunts. Followers can sense when content is made for clicks instead of connection. The most successful viral posts are usually the ones that feel spontaneous, human, and true to the brand’s personality.

Create Trend-Ready Templates

Preparation makes spontaneity possible. The most innovative brands don’t wait for trends; they design their systems around them. Keep a trend toolkit  ready to go. This might include logo overlays, brand music snippets, captions that can be quickly adapted, and a library of short video clips. These assets allow a brand to respond quickly while staying recognisably on-brand.

For example, if a new editing style takes off, having pre-shot clips in a similar format means the team can join the conversation within hours. If a trending audio clip explodes, the toolkit should make it easy to match footage and publish before the sound peaks.

Think of it as preparing ingredients for a recipe you haven’t seen yet. When the right trend comes along, everything’s ready to cook.

Use Micro-Influencers to Keep the Spark Alive

Trends usually start small, within niche communities, before spreading outward. Working with micro-influencers inside those communities keeps a trend alive beyond its viral moment.

Micro-influencers often have engagement rates far higher than celebrities or large accounts because they feel accessible. Their audiences trust them, which gives their content longevity. After a brand joins a trend, inviting creators to make their own spin creates a ripple effect. Each post extends the life of the trend and organically ties it back to the brand.

Turn Attention into Community

Virality brings views, but community brings loyalty. Once a post starts to gain traction, use the engagement as a springboard to build relationships.

Reply to comments quickly, share user-generated content, and invite audiences to participate. Ask them to stitch, duet, or recreate the post with their own spin. Turning a trend into a participatory campaign gives it a second life. It’s no longer just a moment; it becomes a movement centred around the brand.

Brands like Duolingo, Gymshark, and Ryanair have mastered this balance. Their viral content doesn’t exist in isolation; it strengthens their brand voice and keeps followers coming back.

Analyse, Adapt, Repeat

Every viral moment leaves clues. How brands turn one-off success into a repeatable system is tracking what worked and what didn’t.

Metrics to focus on include:

Watch time and engagement rate (to gauge genuine interest)
Follower growth before and after the trend
Comment sentiment (to understand audience perception)
Conversion data from the linked products or pages

Once the data’s in, map out the timeline. When did engagement spike? When did it plateau? Understanding that curve helps predict future timing for similar content.

This analysis turns reactive posting into strategic pattern recognition. Over time, brands learn not just how to ride trends but also how to create the conditions for them to emerge naturally.

Build Long-Term Value from Short-Term Fame

The final step is turning awareness into loyalty. Viral visibility means little without retention.

After a booming trend, extend the story. Use follow-up videos, behind-the-scenes clips, or customer features to show continuity. Transform a viral concept into a brand series. If a sound or phrase resonated, make it part of recurring content. When followers associate that idea with the brand, it becomes an asset rather than a memory.

Encourage repeat engagement through newsletters, loyalty programs, or community spaces. The goal is to move audiences from passive viewers to active participants.

The Takeaway

Virality isn’t luck. It’s the outcome of attention, preparation, and quick, authentic action. A post might trend for a day, but its lessons can fuel growth for years. When a brand can see what’s coming, act with intent, and build from it, every viral moment becomes more than a spark; it becomes the start of something lasting.

Read more:
Turning Viral Trends into Long-Term Brand Growth

Entrepreneur Reedah El-Saie, founder of the educational technology company Brainspark Games, has secured a £30,000 investment on BBC’s Dragons’ Den after an impressive pitch that earned her the rare support of three Dragons.

The London-based founder convinced Sara Davies, Deborah Meaden and Touker Suleyman to each invest £10,000 in her AI-driven learning platform, designed to make education fun, inclusive and accessible for all learners — particularly those who are neurodiverse.

Launched in 2019, Brainspark Games develops immersive, curriculum-aligned mobile games aimed at children aged 7 to 13, covering subjects such as maths, English, science, languages, art and climate awareness.

El-Saie said the games’ AI engine compresses “12 weeks of learning into just a few hours of gameplay”, allowing children to progress rapidly while enjoying an engaging, story-led experience.

The entrepreneur, who has already invested around £400,000 of her own funds into the company, told the Dragons that Brainspark had also secured grants from Innovate UK and backing from several “super angels” in the gaming industry. At the time of filming, the company remained pre-revenue, and she was seeking £10,000 for 1% equity.

While Peter Jones and Steven Bartlett questioned the commercial viability of selling directly to schools — with Jones noting the difficulty of aligning with the National Curriculum — the other Dragons were quick to spot the potential.

Sara Davies and Deborah Meaden both offered to meet El-Saie’s initial valuation, praising the product’s innovation and educational impact. Touker Suleyman, initially demanding 5% equity, eventually made a rare concession to match the 1% deal, joining the trio of investors.

“That’s how to slay three Dragons,” Davies quipped as El-Saie left the Den triumphant.

Speaking after the episode aired, the mother-of-three said: “Before heading into the studio, I watched every previous episode and prepared for every possible question. I was genuinely surprised by how impressed the Dragons were.”

El-Saie highlighted how the investors’ collective expertise would accelerate Brainspark’s next phase: Meaden’s education sector connections — including links with Mumsnet’s founder — would help with outreach; Davies’ parent-focused marketing insight would strengthen the consumer proposition; and Suleyman’s retail acumen would guide a forthcoming merchandise launch.

Brainspark Games specialises in culturally inclusive “neurogames” that combine digital learning with real-world engagement. The company is now developing I/GCSE-level educational games as part of its wider R&D programme.

Read more:
Brainspark Games founder secures triple investment on Dragons’ Den

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering breaking one of Labour’s key election pledges by raising income tax in next month’s budget to help plug a £30 billion fiscal shortfall, according to senior government sources.

Three figures close to the budget process told The Guardian that discussions between the Treasury and No 10 have intensified in recent weeks, with officials exploring how to deliver a sustainable revenue boost without returning to further tax rises later in the parliament.

While no final decision has been taken, advisers believe that increasing income tax may be the only way to raise enough money to restore the public finances and create “headroom” for potential future tax cuts before the next election.

The fiscal challenge has been deepened by the Office for Budget Responsibility’s (OBR) decision to downgrade the UK’s productivity forecasts, a move expected to cost the Treasury around £20 billion annually.

Reeves must also find funds to reverse the winter fuel allowance cut, scrap planned welfare reductions, and end the two-child benefit cap — all measures previously criticised by Labour backbenchers.

Although falling gilt yields have reduced the government’s debt servicing costs by an estimated £2–3 billion, the reprieve is limited. Smaller measures, such as raising National Insurance for partners in law and accountancy firms, are expected to generate no more than £2 billion.

Sources say the Treasury is debating several configurations of income tax changes:
• A 1p rise in the basic rate, from 20p to 21p, would raise about £8.2 billion annually, but could inflame public anger during a fragile cost-of-living recovery.
• A 1p increase in the higher rate, from 40p to 41p for incomes above £50,271, would generate roughly £2.1 billion.
• An additional rate increase for those earning over £125,000 would raise only £230 million per penny.

Reeves is said to be torn between maintaining her promise to protect working households and ensuring that the public finances meet her strict fiscal rules. One senior Treasury source said:

“There is a live debate about how much headroom we want. If we aim high, we might not have to come back and raise taxes again — but that makes it more likely we’ll have to raise income tax now.”

While the Chancellor and Prime Minister Keir Starmer continue to insist that Labour’s manifesto commitments “stand”, they have stopped short of explicitly ruling out tax increases.

Reeves is acutely aware of the political fallout that would come from abandoning her earlier pledge, particularly after she broke another promise last year by raising National Insurance. Advisers say she wants to ensure that any new revenue plan is framed as “a one-off, responsible measure to safeguard economic stability.”

The Budget Board — co-chaired by Treasury minister Torsten Bell and the Prime Minister’s chief economic adviser Dame Minouche Shafik — is currently weighing the competing options.

One proposal, backed by the Resolution Foundation, would see the basic rate of income tax rise by 2p while employee National Insurance contributions fall by 2p, effectively shifting more of the burden onto pensioners and landlords, who do not pay NI.

Ruth Curtice, director of the think tank, said:

“Of all the major taxes, putting up income tax fits best with the UK’s current economic woes of low growth and sticky inflation. Whether or not rates change, we need broader tax reform to reduce the imbalance between earned and unearned income.”

Next month’s 26 November Budget is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged in years. Reeves faces pressure to prove her fiscal discipline to markets while maintaining the government’s credibility with voters still scarred by years of austerity and rising living costs.

As one Treasury official put it: “The politics are bad either way. What matters is doing the right thing.”

Read more:
Reeves weighs income tax rise to plug £30bn fiscal hole

NatWest has delivered one of its strongest quarterly performances since the financial crisis, posting a 30.4 per cent surge in pre-tax profits to £2.2 billion for the three months to the end of September — far exceeding City expectations.

The FTSE 100 lender said income rose almost 16 per cent to £4.3 billion, driven by widening deposit margins and a modest calendar boost from one extra trading day in the quarter. Its net interest margin – the key measure of profitability between lending and deposits – increased to 2.37 per cent, up from 2.18 per cent a year earlier.

Shares in the group rose 3 per cent to 563p, their highest level since the taxpayer bailout of 2008, as investors welcomed the upgraded outlook.

Chief executive Paul Thwaite said the performance was “underpinned by healthy levels of customer activity,” adding that the group’s balance sheet remained resilient despite a challenging macroeconomic backdrop.

NatWest now expects full-year income, excluding one-off items, to reach around £16.3 billion, up from its previous guidance of “more than £16 billion”. It also raised its target return on tangible equity to above 18 per cent, up from the earlier 16.5 per cent forecast.

The results underscore how higher-for-longer interest rates have bolstered UK lenders’ earnings. The Bank of England base rate, which peaked at 5.25 per cent between 2023 and 2024, has since eased to 4 per cent — but remains well above historic norms, allowing banks to maintain healthy lending margins.

NatWest’s results follow similarly robust performances across the banking sector. Barclays reported £2.1 billion in pre-tax profits this week, announcing a £500 million share buyback, while Lloyds Banking Group posted £1.2 billion despite taking an £800 million provision related to motor finance mis-selling.

Banks have also benefited from “structural hedging” strategies, using derivatives to manage exposure to interest rate volatility — a key driver of earnings stability in the current climate.

However, bumper profits could bring unwanted attention from the Treasury ahead of the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget on 26 November. With Rachel Reeves seeking to plug a multibillion-pound fiscal gap, analysts warn that banks’ strong returns may make them an attractive target for a new tax measure or windfall levy.

Lenders insist they already face a heavier tax burden than global peers, arguing that further increases could damage the competitiveness of Britain’s financial sector at a time when international institutions are reassessing their UK exposure.

Read more:
NatWest profits surge 30% as higher interest rates fuel bank earnings

Britain’s car manufacturing output has slumped to its lowest point in more than seven decades after a devastating cyber attack brought Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) assembly lines to a standstill for more than a month.

According to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), total UK vehicle production collapsed by 35.9 per cent in September, falling to just 54,319 units. Car production alone dropped 27.1 per cent to 51,090, with the industry body blaming the sharp decline almost entirely on JLR’s prolonged shutdown.

The SMMT described the incident as “unprecedented”, noting that other major manufacturers had reported growth during the same period.

JLR, owned by India’s Tata Motors, halted output on 31 August when hackers infiltrated its internal systems. The breach forced the company to suspend operations at plants including Solihull in the West Midlands and Halewood on Merseyside.

Thousands of employees were temporarily sent home as the company scrambled to contain the attack, while suppliers across Britain also faced weeks of disruption. Production has now restarted on a limited basis, but insiders say full capacity is unlikely to return until January 2026.

The Cyber Monitoring Centre estimates the attack could cost Britain almost £2 billion, making it the most expensive cyber incident in UK history. Analysts at S&P Global warned that JLR’s revenues could fall by up to 18 per cent this year, with around 50,000 vehicles lost and total sales now forecast at £24 billion — £3 billion less than previously expected.

The collapse in JLR output comes against a backdrop of wider uncertainty in the automotive sector. UK car production for the year so far has fallen 15.2 per cent to 582,250 units, highlighting persistent challenges from the shift to electric vehicles, rising input costs and supply chain fragility.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said the September data “comes as no surprise given the total loss of production at Britain’s biggest automotive employer following a cyber incident”. He urged the government to maintain tax incentives and fleet benefit schemes that encourage businesses to offer new cars to employees.

“The industry needs stability and support,” Hawes said. “Removing these incentives now would cause severe and lasting damage to jobs and competitiveness.”

The attack on JLR has reignited debate over Britain’s preparedness for industrial cyber threats. Experts have warned that as factories become increasingly digitised and connected, the risk of large-scale disruption is growing exponentially.

With JLR still recovering and the broader sector facing a fragile transition to electric powertrains, industry leaders are calling for a coordinated approach to bolster cybersecurity across Britain’s manufacturing base.

Read more:
UK car production plunges to lowest level since 1952 after Jaguar Land Rover cyber attack

Opening a trading account is the first step toward participating in global financial markets. It allows individuals to access various instruments, from stocks and commodities to currencies and indices.

The process might seem technical at first, but with a structured approach, anyone can set up a secure and functional trading account within minutes.

According to SOHO International experts, the setup process ensures clients have a safe and transparent entry point into the trading environment. Each step, from registration to verification, is designed to confirm identity, secure data, and establish the account type that fits the trader’s goals and risk tolerance.

Step 1: Registering and Creating Your Profile

The initial stage of setting up a trading account involves registering through the company’s official platform. Users are asked to provide a valid email address, create a strong password, and select their preferred account currency. This forms the foundation of the client’s trading profile and helps tailor the experience to their financial preferences.

After submitting these details, clients receive a verification email to confirm ownership of the address provided. This step ensures account access remains restricted to the rightful user. SOHO International emphasizes that using a secure email is essential, as it serves as the main channel for verification codes and important updates.

Once confirmed, clients can log in to their dashboard and proceed with the next steps in setting up and funding their account.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Account Type

Different traders have varying goals and capital levels. To accommodate this, most platforms offer tiered account options. Brokers like SOHO International offer clients the option to choose between several accounts, such as Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and VIP accounts. Each level offers different tools and conditions, such as spreads, leverage, and access to support.

Selecting the right account depends on the amount of capital one plans to deploy and the type of trading activity intended. Beginners often start with the lowest account tiers for essential features and manageable risk. More experienced traders may opt for higher-tier accounts that include additional insights and services.

Experts from SOHO International recommend reviewing the account structures carefully before making a selection, as the right tier can influence a trader’s long-term strategy and flexibility.

Step 3: Completing Verification and Funding the Account

Before trading begins, users must complete verification by submitting identification and proof of address. This ensures compliance with regulatory standards and prevents fraud. Once verified, clients can fund their accounts using secure payment methods supported by the platform. Depositing funds is usually quick, and withdrawals follow a similar process, with strict security to ensure client protection.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a trading account is a simple but crucial process that lays the groundwork for a secure trading journey. By following each step (registration, verification, account selection, and funding), new traders can ensure they’re ready to engage responsibly.

According to specialists, understanding each stage helps clients start trading with clarity and confidence, setting the tone for a disciplined and informed experience in the markets.

Read more:
Setting Up a Trading Account – A Step-by-Step Guide by SOHO International

The idea of owning an electric car was something futuristic. The concept of people’s silent rides, zero emissions, and avoiding the petrol pump was loved by people. However, it was not that difficult to get a car but to charge it. Drivers were concerned about the long drive when they would run out of power or spend hours recharging.

That story is changing fast. The modern electric car charger has become an intelligent, dependable device, and nowadays, the ownership of electric cars is easier than ever. At home, in the workplace, or on the road, it has already become as easy to charge your car as to charge your phone.

We should discuss the way in which the driving experience is being changed by the modern electric car charger – and why CEF, one of the most reliable electrical suppliers in the UK, has a significant role in this change.

Home Charging: The Comfort of Convenience

Home charging is the largest benefit of electric car charger currently. There are no longer late-night drives to gas stations and in line. One only needs to park their car, charge it, and wake up with a full battery.

A newer generation of electric car charger at home has smart features such as automated scheduling and a power meter. You can have them turn on in the off-peak hours to save on power expenditure, or you can monitor the amount of energy you are consuming on a real-time basis on your phone.

CEF provides one of the toughest lines of home electric car charger, such as small wall-mounted models and speedy chargers. They are compatible with mainstream electric cars and have good warranty guarantees, which provide confidence to the homeowners in regards to reliability and safety.

Faster Charging Speeds for Busy Drivers

The original electric vehicles required hours to charge, and this was okay when charging over a night, but not suitable in real life. Modern electric car charger are much faster in transferring power, reducing the time of charging to a few minutes.

The electric car charger at Level 2 and rapid chargers can now allow the driver to charge their battery 80 percent in a short coffee break. This is very significant to people who have tight schedules, like contractors, delivery drivers, or people who have to commute to work every day.

You can get all types of chargers at CEF, which are designed to be fast and long-lasting. They house trusted brands that satisfy the rigorous UK safety regulations and can withstand the aggressive use conditions – ideal in individual and business establishments.

Public Charging Is Expanding Everywhere

Several years back, charging in public was a treasure hunt. Finding a working charger in the neighborhood may be stressful. But as electric vehicles have grown in popularity, there are nearly electric car charger everywhere in car parks, supermarkets, or workplaces.

This growing infrastructure eliminates one of the largest fears that EV owners used to possess: range anxiety. You can go on the lengthy journeys without the fear of running out of charge. Cities and local councils are adding new electric car charger each month, and, in the footsteps of the former, are also being added by private businesses to draw the attentive customers.

CEF has been contributing towards this expansion by providing the highest quality electrical parts and charging systems to contractors who install these units all over the country. Their products assist in making safe and efficient charging points that keep EVs in motion.

Smart Technology Is Making Charging Smarter

Nowadays, it is not only possible to charge your car, but it is also becoming smart. A smart electric car charger will be connected to Wi-Fi and mobile applications to enable users to monitor and control their energy consumption in real-time.

For example, you can:

Charge at the lowest prices of electricity.
Monitor your battery of your car remotely.
One-tap phone charging: stop or start.

Further, an electric car charger can even communicate with your solar panels at home, and thus you can directly use renewable energy to charge your vehicle. It translates to reduced expenses and reduced carbon footprint – it’s a win-win both to your purse and to the environment.

CEF has a variety of these clever solutions, which are targeted at contemporary households and progressive businesses. Their chargers have a blend of technology, safety, and reliability- the type of quality that creates long-term trust.

Workplace Charging Encourages EV Adoption

Employers are currently becoming aware of the fact that electric car charger are not only beneficial to car owners but also a prudent business purchase. Placing charging stations in offices would also motivate employees to transition to the use of electric vehicles, alleviate pressure during the commute, and create a perception of the company as being more environmentally friendly.

Those companies that provide electric car charger on the premises demonstrate their concern regarding sustainability. It is nice in terms of employee satisfaction, fantastic in terms of brand recognition, and is usually accompanied by government subsidies.

CEF collaborates with employers around the UK to design and install charging systems at the workplace to support their space and power requirements. They supply reliable equipment that is easy to install and maintain in both small offices and big industrial installations.

Cost Savings That Add Up Over Time

Although the idea of installing electric car charger might seem to be an additional cost, it is a cost-saving measure in the long term. Here, home charging will cost much less than petrol refueling, and the prices of public charging keep becoming more competitive.

The electric car owners also have the benefit of lower off-peak electricity tariffs and government grants to fund EV infrastructure. Furthermore, EV charging stations need only a small amount of maintenance work in contrast to the conventional fuel system.

CEF has options like energy-efficient chargers, which offer great value to the customers and have long-term performance. They also provide professional guidance to assist users in making the most suitable choices depending on their car model, power, and usage pattern.

A Cleaner, Greener Future

Going electric is not a fad but a trend that is leading to a better and healthier world. The installation of each EV charger will be a small yet significant step toward eliminating emissions and fossil fuel dependence.

Through the promotion of EVs, we can reach a place where cities have clean air and quiet streets. And as more individuals decide to have their cars charged either at home or at work, the necessity to have traditional petrol infrastructure keeps dwindling.

In this transformation, CEF is very crucial. They offer a broad selection of electric car charger to help individuals and businesses pursue the green revolution without having to sacrifice convenience or quality.

Why choose CEF for electric car charger

Reliability is important as far as electrical equipment is concerned. CEF has developed a reputation as one of the most trusted suppliers of professional as well as domestic electrical requirements in the UK. The choice of electric car charger indicates the same quality and safety.

Here’s what makes CEF stand out:

Qualified EV charging brands are available in a huge number.
Professional help with installation and installation.
Energy saving and rapid recharging systems.
Strict UK safety of products.
A good guarantee of long-term peace of mind.

Whether you’re a homeowner setting up your first charger or a contractor managing large installations, CEF has the tools and expertise to make it seamless.

Conclusion

Electric cars already altered the way we approach the driving experience – and the existence of modern electric car charger is transforming it into something accessible, convenient, and pleasant. With reduced charging time to more intelligent technology and broadened networks, it has never been easier to own an EV.

And, in the quest for reliable, durable, and efficient charging solutions, CEF remains to be on the top. Their product line of electric car charger spans all the way from easy home setups to commercial-grade systems – all supported by reliable brands and professional advice.

And in case you are ready to make the next step in the EV process, you should not choose any charger. Select one that brings in power, safety, and peace of mind.

Select CEF– since there is no good drive without a sure charge.

Read more:
How Electric Car Chargers Are Making EV Ownership More Convenient

Retail theft costs UK businesses over £1 billion annually, according to the British Retail Consortium. With organised retail crime, shoplifting, and employee theft on the rise, store owners are increasingly turning to AI-powered video surveillance systems.

The right platform not only helps detect suspicious activity but also integrates with access control to manage restricted zones and protect inventory.

Below are the five best video surveillance systems designed to help retailers across the UK strengthen their security infrastructure.

1. Coram – The Best AI-Powered Retail Surveillance System

Coram stands out as a next-generation, all-in-one AI surveillance platform built for modern retailers. Known for its camera-agnostic architecture, Coram integrates seamlessly with existing IP cameras, removing the need for expensive hardware upgrades.

Why Coram is Ideal for Retailers:

AI-Powered Theft Detection: Advanced video analytics help identify suspicious behaviour such as loitering near high-value items or unauthorized entry after hours.
Real-Time Alerts: Store managers receive instant notifications via the Coram dashboard or mobile app for any security event.
Access Control Integration: Coram offers its own cloud-managed access control system, unifying door control, credential management, video security, and emergency response in one platform.
Unified Cloud Dashboard: Retailers can manage multiple locations from a single interface, ideal for chain stores and franchises.

Coram is widely recognized as the best video surveillance system for retail businesses, offering a complete security ecosystem that combines AI surveillance, emergency management, and access control under one unified platform.

2. Avigilon Unity (Motorola Solutions)

Avigilon Unity is a trusted name in enterprise video surveillance. Built on Motorola’s robust technology, it offers crystal-clear video analytics, facial recognition, and advanced motion detection.

Best For:

Medium to large retail chains seeking high-definition video analytics and compliance-grade security.

Key Features:

Smart object detection for identifying theft or crowd build-up.
Facial recognition for tracking repeat offenders or VIP customers.
Secure cloud and on-premises options.
Easy integration with Avigilon Access Control Manager for multi-layered protection.

3. Verkada

Verkada is popular among UK retailers for its hybrid cloud architecture that simplifies storage and monitoring. The platform uses AI-driven alerts to identify unusual movements or blocked emergency exits.

Why It Works for Retail:

Plug-and-play camera setup no complex IT configuration needed.
AI-based people and vehicle analytics.
Automatic software updates for zero maintenance hassle.
Strong GDPR compliance for customer data protection.

Verkada’s real-time monitoring and mobile access make it perfect for retail managers who oversee multiple store locations.

4. Axis Communications

Axis Communications, a pioneer in IP cameras, delivers reliable and scalable solutions for retailers looking to enhance visual security.

Key Advantages:

High-resolution cameras with advanced light adaptation.
Integration with POS (Point of Sale) systems to correlate video with transaction data.
Customizable analytics to detect loitering or abandoned items.
Compatible with third-party access control systems for centralized management.

Axis systems are particularly effective in detecting internal shrinkage and checkout fraud, two of the biggest pain points for UK retailers.

5. Hikvision AcuSense Series

The Hikvision AcuSense line combines affordability with AI-driven motion detection, making it ideal for small and mid-sized retail stores.

Highlights:

Smart differentiation between humans and objects to reduce false alarms.
Night vision and dual light technology for 24/7 clarity.
Integration with network video recorders (NVRs) for scalable storage.
Mobile app access for instant event playback.

Although it’s one of the most budget-friendly options, Hikvision’s compliance and data security must be carefully evaluated, especially under UK privacy laws.

The Importance of Integration with Access Control Systems

Modern retail security goes beyond video recording. The most effective systems now link with access control systems, ensuring only authorized staff access sensitive zones such as cash rooms, stock areas, or server spaces.

For instance, Coram’s access control integration enables biometric or smart card entry synced with video analytics. If an unauthorized person attempts access, the system triggers an instant visual alert and records the incident in real time.

This convergence of AI surveillance and access control minimizes internal theft, boosts accountability, and improves safety for employees and customers alike.

Why Retailers Are Moving Toward AI-Based Surveillance

According to a 2024 report by Statista, over 62% of UK retailers plan to adopt AI-driven surveillance systems by 2026. This shift is driven by:

Rising incidents of organised retail crime.
Demand for smarter analytics and automated alerts.
The need for centralized, multi-store monitoring.
Integration with other smart building technologies.

AI systems like Coram are transforming retail operations from reactive to proactive security, ensuring every camera contributes to actionable intelligence rather than passive footage.

FAQs

1. What’s the best video surveillance system for small retail stores?

For smaller stores, Coram or Hikvision AcuSense offer great balance between affordability, scalability, and AI analytics.

2. How do access control systems enhance retail security?

Access control restricts entry to authorized staff only, reducing risks of theft and data breaches. When integrated with video surveillance, it provides visual verification for every access event.

3. Are cloud-based systems better for multi-store retail chains?

Yes, cloud-based systems like Coram and Verkada enable centralized monitoring, allowing managers to review incidents or live feeds from multiple branches simultaneously.

4. Is video surveillance data GDPR-compliant in the UK?

Leading providers like Coram, Avigilon, and Verkada are GDPR-compliant, ensuring that recorded data is securely stored and accessible only to authorized personnel.

5. How can AI reduce false alarms in retail surveillance?

AI filters out non-human movement (like pets or shadows) and focuses on behaviour-based detection reducing false positives and saving response time.

Conclusion

For UK retailers, investing in a video surveillance system is no longer optional it’s a necessity. As theft becomes more sophisticated, so must the technology designed to stop it.

Among the five systems featured, Coram stands out as the most advanced and scalable option, offering AI-powered analytics, access control integration, and easy deployment across single or multi-store environments.

With intelligent surveillance and real-time visibility, UK retailers can create a safer, smarter, and more profitable shopping experience for both staff and customers.

Read more:
5 Best AI Video Surveillance Solutions for Retail Stores Across the UK