June 21, 2021

McDonald’s reveals its plans for new outlets

McDonald’s is to recruit 20,000 more people and open 50 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland, it has announced. The fast food chain will look to employ additional staff and set up new franchises across the country over the next 12 months. It comes in anticipation of increased crew

Read More »

Planning application submitted for new neighbourhood

Ebbsfleet Development Corporation has submitted a planning application to redevelop an area of land into a new neighbourhood. The EDC is seeking to turn the land, in Grove Road in Northfleet, into a quality new neighbourhood of up to 320 new homes with commercial and community space. The proposed development

Read More »

Property giants join forces for Great British Spring Clean 2021

British Land, Berkeley, and Multiplex team up to clean up Hyde Park and the Grand Union Canal Marble Arch London BID assembled volunteers from some of London’s biggest businesses to celebrate the Great British Spring Clean. As part of its ongoing commitment to the local community, Marble Arch London BID,

Read More »

GLP Upsizes European Development Fund, Targeting €4 Billion in AUM

The upsize will fund strategic expansion and transform the fund into a diversified Pan-European vehicle GLP announced today a strategic expansion in size and scope of GLP Continental Europe Development Partners I (“GLP CDP I”). GLP and its partners Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (“CPP Investments”) through its wholly owned

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CADDICK REVS UP AND COMPLETES ON £5M PORSCHE CENTRE NEAR CARNFORTH

Caddick Construction has recently completed the construction of a new £5m Porsche centre, complete with workshops, MOT testing facility and offices, just off Junction 35 of the M6. Appointed by Porsche franchise holders Parker & Parker Limited, work has been completed on schedule on the state-of-the-art Porsche Centre South Lakes

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Lifting equipment: Your three-point checklist for success

No matter how long ago you took your test, there are three little words that probably still influence your driving to this very day: mirror-signal-manoeuvre. Short and sweet, they provide a helpful way of remembering what you need to do to keep yourself (and others) safe on the road. When

Read More »
Furniture Manufacturer Secures Growth Plans

Furniture Manufacturer Secures Growth Plans

A Dudley-based furniture manufacturer has secured new funding to kickstart its recovery plans and expand its interior fit-out division. Zero Point Eight secured a £120k investment from BCRS Business Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund’s (MEIF) Small Business Loan Fund – backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme

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Kilwaughter Minerals announces new Sales Director

Leading quarry and mineral processor Kilwaughter Minerals Limited has appointed a new Sales Director as part of a major growth strategy as the economy emerges from the coronavirus pandemic. David Grace joins the County Antrim headquartered company having previously worked at director level for a leading company in the construction

Read More »

A Guide to Buying Bladeless Tower Fans

Hot summers necessitate the installation of a proper cooling system in your house. If you cannot install an air conditioner, fans are the next suitable option. You might find it impractical to install an AC because it can be quite expensive. If you’re renting your house, the agreement may prohibit

Read More »

What Are the Right Steps to Follow When Selling Your Home?

Poway has around 17,000 households, and home prices in the city have increased by up to 37% since the past year. It’s essential to ensure that you follow the proper steps to sell your home, even though it’s relatively easy to sell a home in Poway. An effective home selling

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

June 21, 2021

McDonald’s reveals its plans for new outlets

McDonald’s is to recruit 20,000 more people and open 50 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland, it has announced. The fast food chain will look to employ additional staff and set up new franchises across the country over the next 12 months. It comes in anticipation of increased crew capacity as part of changing Government coronavirus guidelines. The firm said the additions are not to replace the jobs lost throughout the pandemic, and are instead to prepare for the additional restaurants. Paul Pomroy, CEO, of McDonald’s UK & Ireland said: “It’s fantastic to be able to offer an additional 20,000 people an opportunity to work with us. “Our 1,400 restaurants are run by 200 local franchisees which means we have a personal stake in every one of our communities. “It’s a big responsibility, and the moves we’ve announced today reflect our commitment to continue to innovate and invest in the local communities and economies we serve.”

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Planning application submitted for new neighbourhood

Ebbsfleet Development Corporation has submitted a planning application to redevelop an area of land into a new neighbourhood. The EDC is seeking to turn the land, in Grove Road in Northfleet, into a quality new neighbourhood of up to 320 new homes with commercial and community space. The proposed development would provide affordable homes, homes for older people, new public spaces as well as a waterfront park with community facilities and shops and cafes. There will be improved pedestrian access and a public plaza as well as public transport links, with the area benefiting from Fastrack bus services. The area is part of the Northfleet Embankment West site and lies within 400 metres of Northfleet Railway Station providing easy access to central London. Ian Piper, Chief Executive of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, said: “We undertook a public consultation last year and those who took part came out in support of our proposals. “We want to turn this area into a new residential neighbourhood, and create a fantastic open space around the historic Harbour that is accessible to everyone.  The setting beside the Thames can be transformed into a great waterside destination with high quality and affordable homes.” The planning application is expected to go before a planning committee around September or later.

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Property giants join forces for Great British Spring Clean 2021

British Land, Berkeley, and Multiplex team up to clean up Hyde Park and the Grand Union Canal Marble Arch London BID assembled volunteers from some of London’s biggest businesses to celebrate the Great British Spring Clean. As part of its ongoing commitment to the local community, Marble Arch London BID, brought its members together to participate in two in-person events. Working together the 22 volunteers helped to clear cow parsley from Hyde Park’s meadows and remove plastic waste and debris from the Grand Union Canal. Volunteers from businesses including British Land, Berkeley, Hunter Boots and GIC ventured out on GoBoats, canoes and paddleboards to clean up the canal. Meanwhile, employees from Multiplex, Hunter Boots and British Land worked with The Royal Parks in Hyde Park to pull up cow parsley, enabling other flower species to grow which help bees, butterflies, and other insects to thrive. The Great British Spring Clean 2021 which saw volunteers across the UK make 1.15 million miles of British outdoor spaces cleaner and greener, was also a great opportunity for colleagues to reunite after over a year of home working. The event marked the start of Marble Arch London BID’s in-person community events after many months of virtual volunteering throughout the pandemic. Through its Community Programme, the BID matches volunteers with charities and schools to undertake practical challenges such as decorating or gardening, as well as skill sharing. Kay Buxton, Chief Executive, Marble Arch London BID, comments: “We are a champion for business and community and our goal is to unite the two to create a welcoming and hospitable environment for those who live, work and visit our district. The Great British Spring Clean is a regular fixture in our calendar and we would like to thank all the volunteers for getting their boots on to support an event which is crucial to maintaining our beautiful outdoor spaces. These green spaces have become a vital escape for many Londoners who have found themselves feeling isolated at home during the pandemic, and it was fantastic to see so many colleagues from across our member businesses reunite for the first time at this event. As restrictions ease, we look forward to hosting more in-person community events which will bring our members together to support the local area.” During the pandemic, the BID’s community programme also helped businesses to channel donations of surplus food, furniture, IT and office equipment, clothes, and homeware to local charities and food banks.

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GLP Upsizes European Development Fund, Targeting €4 Billion in AUM

The upsize will fund strategic expansion and transform the fund into a diversified Pan-European vehicle GLP announced today a strategic expansion in size and scope of GLP Continental Europe Development Partners I (“GLP CDP I”). GLP and its partners Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (“CPP Investments”) through its wholly owned subsidiary, CPP Investment Board Europe S.à r.l., and QuadReal Property Group (“QuadReal”) have agreed to expand the investment capacity of GLP CDP I, targeting €4 billion of assets under management (“AUM”) (~US$4.9 billion) upon stabilization. Through this expansion, CPP Investments has committed €900 million of equity, representing a 45% share and QuadReal has committed €800 million of equity, representing a 40% share, with the remaining 15% held by GLP. Ralf Wessel, Managing Director, Fund Management, GLP, said, “This upsize is testament to how well GLP CDP I has performed since its inception. Our investment pipeline is considerably ahead of schedule and we are seeing strong demand for our developments, reflecting attractive fundamentals for logistics development across all major hubs in Europe. We look forward to continuing our partnership with CPP Investments and QuadReal to expand GLP CDP I into a truly Pan-European development vehicle.” GLP CDP I was established in 2018 to develop modern logistics assets in Continental Europe including Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. The upsize will be used to transform GLP CDP I into a Pan-European development vehicle by strategically expanding in the United Kingdom (“UK”) and Central and Eastern Europe (“CEE”) markets via the acquisition of landbank and select high-quality logistics development opportunities. Andrea Orlandi, Managing Director, Head of Real Estate Investments – Europe, CPP Investments, said, “GLP CDP I is a key part of our development-led growth strategy in the logistics sector globally. Given the success of the venture to date, we are pleased to be continuing and expanding our partnership with GLP and QuadReal. We have a strong conviction in the logistics and warehousing sector and the ability of GLP to execute on our strategy, enabling us to deliver long-term sustainable returns for our contributors and beneficiaries in Canada.” Jay Kwan, Managing Director, Head of Europe, QuadReal, said, “Expanding our venture with GLP and CPP Investments was a natural evolution of our partnership given its success to date, continued favourable market conditions and strong relationships created with tenants. We’re pleased to be investing alongside two partners with whom we have a lockstep relationship.” Since entering the European market in 2017, GLP has more than tripled its AUM. Following the upsize of GLP CDP I, GLP now manages more than €12 billion (~US$13 billion) of AUM across Europe’s strongest logistics markets.

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CADDICK REVS UP AND COMPLETES ON £5M PORSCHE CENTRE NEAR CARNFORTH

Caddick Construction has recently completed the construction of a new £5m Porsche centre, complete with workshops, MOT testing facility and offices, just off Junction 35 of the M6. Appointed by Porsche franchise holders Parker & Parker Limited, work has been completed on schedule on the state-of-the-art Porsche Centre South Lakes site, Electric Drive, Carnforth, the new home for Porsche Centre Kendal. The address name was chosen specifically to mirror Porsche’s public commitment to building all electric cars. The new showroom and facilities covering 1,618²m in total and will have the capacity to display the full range of the luxury car brand including the newly launched all electric Taycan. The centre also includes a luxurious handover lounge, meeting rooms and employee facilities as well as ample parking and attractive, landscaped, outdoor space. The multi-million-pound project signals the long-term commitment and strengthening position of the German luxury sports car brand in the North West which is still seeing high levels of demand and interest as the UK moves slowly out of lockdown measures. Caddick Construction North West Managing Director Ian Threadgold said: “This has been an exciting and very rewarding contract to be involved with. Porsche is one of the most desirable  and respected brands in the world and we are delighted to be able to deliver an exceptional dealership and showroom in a such a stunning location.” Ian Parker, Director of Porsche Centre South Lakes, added: “All the team are delighted with the Centre which looks amazing, both the interior fit out and external facade. Anticipation has been growing over recent months and it is living up to all our expectations. We are now working hard towards our official opening in July so we can really showcase the fitting new home of Porsche for Cumbria and North Lancashire.” Architect and Principal Designer for the project is Axis 3 Design Limited with structural engineering provided by Cumbrian-based R G Parkins & Partners Limited.

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Lifting equipment: Your three-point checklist for success

No matter how long ago you took your test, there are three little words that probably still influence your driving to this very day: mirror-signal-manoeuvre. Short and sweet, they provide a helpful way of remembering what you need to do to keep yourself (and others) safe on the road. When it comes to lifting and handling, safety is an equally major concern, and getting that right all starts with good planning. Selecting the right equipment, for example, is a crucial part of minimising your safety risk. At Alliance Tool Hire we’ve developed a quick three-point lifting checklist to help. It might not get etched into your memory quite like mirror-signal-manoeuvre, but we hope it’s a useful way of ensuring you get exactly what you need to get the job done safely. Capability It’s essential that the equipment you employ can comfortably cope with the load in question. With a range of products that stretches from 500kg hand chain blocks to 3 tonne electric chain hoists and large-scale 50-tonne modular lifting beams, Alliance can help you specify the right equipment for loads of practically every weight and type. Elevation Our most popular hire items are the SLA range of manual hoists, typically used for lifting support beams or ducting into place. But the precise model you need will depend not just on the load but also on the Height of Lift (HOL). The SLA10, for example, delivers a Safe Working Load (SWL) of 454kg and a lifting height of 3m, while the SLA25 offers a SWL of 295kg and a lifting height of 7.5m. Condition You need to be fully confident that the equipment you are using is not only fit for purpose, but in a fit and proper condition. At Alliance Tool Hire, all our lifting equipment – whether hire or sale – comes with a six-month Report Of Thorough Examination (ROTE) certificate to give you complete peace of mind. Get in touch with us today to find out more about the lifting and handling products available from Alliance Tool Hire, and how we can deliver the right mix of Capability-Elevation-Condition for your lifting application. Find your nearest Alliance Tool Hire branch and speak to our friendly and experienced team by clicking here. To view our full range of lifting and handling products, click here.  Connect with us onLinkedIn and Facebook.

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Furniture Manufacturer Secures Growth Plans

Furniture Manufacturer Secures Growth Plans

A Dudley-based furniture manufacturer has secured new funding to kickstart its recovery plans and expand its interior fit-out division. Zero Point Eight secured a £120k investment from BCRS Business Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund’s (MEIF) Small Business Loan Fund – backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS). Since being established five years ago, furniture manufacturer Zero Point Eight’s joinery division has built a strong reputation for designing, manufacturing and installing furniture, alongside fulfilling bespoke orders using woodworking and assembly techniques. Directors Mark Baker and William Evans say the company now has its sights set on recovery and growth following a difficult year due to the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are delighted to have secured MEIF funding, which will initially enable us to manufacture pre-existing joinery and furniture orders, ” said Mark Baker. “We also plan to expand our interior fit-out division, which was established two years ago and is focused on providing turnkey interiors to the private residential care, NHS, education, retail, hospitality and commercial sectors, which includes manufactured furniture, ceilings, walls, mechanical, electrical and floor installations. With 45 full time staff at our base in Netherton, we also plan to recruit an additional two people in the coming year. Our hope is to return to pre-coronavirus turnover levels by the second quarter of 2021.” Lynn Wyke, Senior Business Development Manager at BCRS, also commented: “We are so pleased to have supported Zero Point Eight, allowing the company to achieve its growth and recovery plans. As a lender of social and economic impact, it is excellent to see that the company not only expects its turnover to return to pre-coronavirus levels this year, but also that two additional jobs are to be created, which will be vital in helping our local communities recover too. We are committed to supporting businesses across the West Midlands region that are unable to secure finance from traditional lenders.” The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank. The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), which closed to new applications on 31st March 2021, was managed by the British Business Bank on behalf of, and with the financial backing of the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and industrial Strategy (BEIS). Businesses based in the West Midlands and surrounding areas can secure loans from £10,000 to £150,000 from BCRS Business Loans to support growth and recovery plans.

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Kilwaughter Minerals announces new Sales Director

Leading quarry and mineral processor Kilwaughter Minerals Limited has appointed a new Sales Director as part of a major growth strategy as the economy emerges from the coronavirus pandemic. David Grace joins the County Antrim headquartered company having previously worked at director level for a leading company in the construction industry. He will have responsibility for leading the sales and technical sales functions across Kilwaughter’s portfolio of brands including K Rend, K Systems and Kilwaughter Lime. David commented: “I’m looking forward to meeting our customers and getting closer to the market segments. “The construction sector particularly has had some recent challenges, however I’m confident that the team and the innovative solutions from Kilwaughter’s R&D department will continue to drive us forward and bring opportunities both for our customers and the company.” Gary Wilmot, Chief Executive, Kilwaughter Minerals added: “It is a pleasure to welcome David to the Management Board as we experience a period of sustained growth.   “With a wealth of experience in the construction industry, David has worked on specification led sales, with specialist contractors and the building materials merchant and distribution network. “His proven track record of success in delivering revenue and margin growth and a passion for developing high performing teams makes David an exceptional addition to the Kilwaughter team.” David’s appointment follows recent changes to Kilwaughter’s company structure with the creation of a new Business Development function led by Caroline Rowley, who has also joined the Management Board. The Business Development team has been established with a clear and ambitious strategic focus to drive product and market development through sectoral knowledge and continual innovation.

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A Guide to Buying Bladeless Tower Fans

Hot summers necessitate the installation of a proper cooling system in your house. If you cannot install an air conditioner, fans are the next suitable option. You might find it impractical to install an AC because it can be quite expensive. If you’re renting your house, the agreement may prohibit you from installing an AC. Either way, a bladeless fan is an excellent option for total cooling during the summer months, during which temperatures reached record levels just last year. There are many innovative designs and models in the market that you must consider before choosing a fan. With an advanced air multiplying technology, bladeless tower fans, for example, are an extremely innovative cooling solution suitable for all spaces. Types of Fans to Consider Before you choose a particular fan for your house, there are some options that you must be aware of. The different types of fans are as follows: Pedestal Fans: Pedestal fans are pretty large and have big blades that help even dispersion. The height of these fans can generally be adjusted, making them quite useful. They have been the classic choice for years and are a good cooling solution. Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans are the most common type of fans available in the market and are mostly used to seeing. They are attached to the ceiling and do not cause any obstruction or take up space in the room. They provide uniform cooling all around the room, making them another great choice. Desk Fans: For a more concentrated source of cooling, desk fans are a perfect choice. If you do not want something as big as a pedestal fan because you do not have enough space in the room but want a direct air source, desk fans are a perfect choice. You can easily set them on a flat surface and enjoy the cool breeze. Tower Fans: Tower fans are the most innovative and modern version of fans in the market. These are typically bladeless fans with various features, much more than what you get in a standard pedestal fan. As the name suggests, tower fans are much sleeker and hence fit even in a cramped space. Although they are quite narrow, they provide strong output, making them an ideal solution. How do Bladeless Tower Fans Work Bladeless tower fans are similar to traditional oscillating fans, except that bladeless fans offer better air circulation and distribution. The fans pull the air using the side vents and spin it before circulating the cool air through the front. How to Buy Tower Fans Tower fans are very new to the market and are only produced by a few companies. These fans are very innovative and are popularly known as bladeless fans. When you buy a tower fan, you will enjoy the various features that come packed with them. When purchasing a tower fan, make sure to consider the following factors for a successful purchase: Timer: You will find several tower fans that come with a timer function. This lets you set a timer for how long you want to run the fan. They usually provide an option to set a timer for up to 24 hours. They might even come with a sleep timer that automatically switches off the fan after you fall asleep. Oscillating head: An oscillating head is essential for ensuring that the airflow is well-distributed, thus allowing them to cool large spaces in a short while. You need a good rate of oscillation if you share your room with another person. Heating capabilities: Some tower fans also have excellent heat settings. This way, you can use the fan even during the winter season to stay warm and comfortable. Remote Control: Just like an AC, there are tower fans that come with a remote control. This means that you can switch your fan on and off without having to leave your bed and control other settings without having to get close to it. Why Choose Bladeless Fans Bladeless fans are nothing like the old-school fans. Since their release in the market, these fans have garnered much attention and excitement from tech enthusiasts and homeowners alike. These “bladeless” fans do have blades. In reality, it is just that they remain hidden from sight. They channel high-velocity smooth air, and the airflow is magnificent. These fans are best suited for families with children as the lack of visible blades ensures better safety. They are also much easier to clean and come with enhanced functions. However, tower fans are more expensive than your regular pedestal fans. Tower fans are truly a fascinating opportunity for those looking for a modern and out-of-the-box cooling solution. They come with much better features and are perfectly suitable for houses with smaller spaces!

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What Are the Right Steps to Follow When Selling Your Home?

Poway has around 17,000 households, and home prices in the city have increased by up to 37% since the past year. It’s essential to ensure that you follow the proper steps to sell your home, even though it’s relatively easy to sell a home in Poway. An effective home selling plan can help you avoid potential legal issues and ensure that you don’t sustain a financial loss. A certified agent specializing in Poway real estate can educate you on the professional and legal intricacies of the home selling process and help you choose the right buyer. Assess the Condition of Your House The median value of a Poway home is around $1 million. Home prices in Poway are much higher than in other areas in cities in the US. When buyers are compelled to pay such high prices for a house, they also tend to be more analytical about the condition of your home and the distinct features of your home. A critical assessment of your home will help reveal any damages or defects in your home.  The assessment will also help reveal any scope for improvement before the selling process begins. It’s recommended you seek the help of your real estate agent to carry out the home assessment. Real estate agents have clarity on what buyers expect. Your agent could suggest ways to increase the value of your home with minor alternations or renovations. You may also consider painting your home, attending to any plumbing or wiring issues, and other home maintenance requirements before putting your house up for sale. Fix a Price for Your Home There are several factors you will have to consider to fix a price for your home. A real estate expert can help you fix a competitive price of your home. Besides the size and condition of the house, home sellers will also have to consider the real estate rates of similar homes in the neighborhood. High prices may drive away potential buyers. Hence, it’s critical to ensure that you settle on a reasonable price.  You may also want to cover the cost of sale-related home renovations and improvements in the price. If the price does not cover the initial cost of buying the house and the cost of further improvements, you will sustain a loss. While settling for a lower price is inevitable in some real estate markets, Poway has a thriving real estate market that offers several opportunities to home sellers.  Find Legal and Financial Help Your real estate agent will put you in touch with lawyers, lenders, and other experts who will help you with the home selling process. You will need help with several aspects, like the title deed and the transfer deed. You will also need approvals and certifications from relevant authorities to proceed with the sale. Expert lawyers can educate you on the legal requirements you need to follow.  You may need documentation to prove that you are the actual owner of the home you are selling. You may also need to interact and negotiate with the prospective buyer’s real estate title company and real estate agent. A comprehensive assessment of all relevant documents will help you identify any pending payments or other pending liabilities associated with the house. Buyers may be reluctant to buy a house that has pending mortgage payments. A financial analyst can help you find ways to deal with any pending liabilities or payments. It’s also vital to ensure that you get your home insurance documents and agreements reviewed by your insurance agent or lawyer.  Shortlist Potential Buyers If you have several offers on your home, it’s imperative to assess all the potential buyers and shortlist the ones you find most reliable. You may want to speak to the buyers directly and ask your real estate agent to interact with them. It’s also essential to study the financial credibility of the buyers to ensure they are capable of paying for the home. Experts recommend doing a thorough background check of the buyers you shortlist. This will help eliminate the possibility of falling prey to real estate scams. Choose the Right Buyer An expert realtor who works in the Poway real estate market can help you finalize the right buyer and handle all the required closing obligations. Your agent will also help you identify the right time for the sale. It’s vital to sell your home when market rates are high to guarantee maximum profits from the sale. Collaborating with the right Poway real estate agent is crucial to ensuring that the home selling process is smooth and hassle-free. It is also essential to prepare and stage your home for sale. A thorough home appraisal by real estate experts will help you fix the right price for your home.

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