Business : BDC Blog News
Is it Possible to Self-Build Yourself?

Is it Possible to Self-Build Yourself?

Self-builds are increasing in popularity. But we don’t always know much about them or what they involve. When it comes to the construction side of things, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The process can be long, expensive, and time-consuming. So, ultimately, it helps to know a lot more about it

Read More »
H1: Payment gateway troubleshooting: common issues and solutions.

H1: Payment gateway troubleshooting: common issues and solutions.

As a business owner, there’s nothing more frustrating than encountering payment gateway issues on your website. Not only does it cause inconvenience for your customers, but it can also negatively impact your brand reputation. A payment gateway acts as a bridge between the merchant’s website and the payment processor, facilitating

Read More »
7 Strategies to Grow Your Plumbing Business in 2023

7 Strategies to Grow Your Plumbing Business in 2023

Are you a plumbing business owner looking to expand your reach and attract more customers in 2023? With the right strategies in place, you can effectively grow your plumbing business and stay ahead of the competition. In this article, we will explore seven key strategies to help you achieve more

Read More »
6 Essential Upgrades to Boost Your Property's Value

6 Essential Upgrades to Boost Your Property’s Value

At your property, only you have the power to unleash its hidden potential and increase its value. Through strategic upgrades, your humble abode could quickly become one of the coveted homes on the market. In this article we’ll take a closer look at six essential upgrades which can do exactly

Read More »
Keepmoat manager scoops High Sheriff Award

Keepmoat manager scoops High Sheriff Award

Mark Burley, Regional Social Value and Partnerships Manager at top 10 homebuilder Keepmoat, has been recognised for his work to help build a brighter future for prisoners at HMP Hull with the High Sheriff Award. The High Sheriff Award, officially presented by the High Sheriff for the East Riding of

Read More »
The Most Famous Casinos for Architecture

The Most Famous Casinos for Architecture

The casino business is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with operators splashing a fortune to design some of the most glamorous buildings worldwide. After all, most gamblers with money would easily want to associate themselves with a casino with state-of-the-art interior and exterior designs. In this article, we’ll list 6 top casino

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What is A Military Shelter System?

What is A Military Shelter System?

In every military operation, having a reliable shelter system is of utmost importance. It provides a secure and protected space for troops, regardless of weather conditions or terrain. Military shelters come in different shapes and sizes, ranging from small individual tents to large multi-room structures that can house an entire

Read More »
Building on the sky's edge - Alumno regeneration project takes centre stage

Building on the sky’s edge – Alumno regeneration project takes centre stage

What do a successful musical and an award-winning purpose-built student accommodation developer have in common? Alumno Managing Director David Campbell reveals all… When we applied for planning permission for one of our most challenging, yet rewarding projects in 2018, little did we know that the journey would end with an Alumno team outing in March 2023 to

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Latest Issue
Issue 334 : Nov 2025

Business : BDC Blog News

Is it Possible to Self-Build Yourself?

Is it Possible to Self-Build Yourself?

Self-builds are increasing in popularity. But we don’t always know much about them or what they involve. When it comes to the construction side of things, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The process can be long, expensive, and time-consuming. So, ultimately, it helps to know a lot more about it before you commit. For many of us, it’s important to know whether you can actually carry out a self-build yourself and what it involves. Let’s take a look. What is a Self-Build? So first of all, you might want to think about exactly what this is and what it involves. This can be a blanket term, but generally refers to the process of building a home. It can be something that many of us aspire to, yet we won’t always know how to get started. After all, building a house is a huge undertaking. So knowing how to do it, how much it costs, and whether you can actually do it yourself is important. What’s the Difference Between Building and Buying? Sometimes, people can be on the fence about whether to buy or to build. Of course, there are always going to be pros and cons for both – so you may find that it’s a good idea to work out which feels best for you before you get started. Why Build? The process of buying can feel pretty familiar. You see a house you like, you make an offer, it’s accepted. But in doing that, you accept the house as it is. And it may not be perfect for you or suit your needs. So sometimes, you’ll look to make changes to it. And even then – you can’t always get it the way that you want it. But when you build, you can get it right from the start. From room sizes to the facilities you need and even the design. This is often the biggest allure of a self-build. Do You Need Help? The simple answer here is always going to be yes. Unless you are a qualified building contractor yourself, you will want professional help. But even then, there are a range of trades that you’ll likely need to employ too. Even when you have a toolshed full of what you need, a mobile scaffold, and you’ve Googled what you need to do, you may benefit more from the support. After all, you want this to be done well. So it often pays to invest in help. Bringing Your Self-Build to Life Now all that’s left for you to do is bring your self-build to life. As you know, this isn’t always going to be the easier process, but you may find that you are able to create the house of your dreams by channeling a lot o energy into this. Whether you decide to do the bulk of the work yourself to work with experts, just make sure that you enjoy the process. Before you know it, your dream home will be brought to life.

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H1: Payment gateway troubleshooting: common issues and solutions.

H1: Payment gateway troubleshooting: common issues and solutions.

As a business owner, there’s nothing more frustrating than encountering payment gateway issues on your website. Not only does it cause inconvenience for your customers, but it can also negatively impact your brand reputation. A payment gateway acts as a bridge between the merchant’s website and the payment processor, facilitating the transfer of funds securely. A seamless payment experience is essential for any business that wants to grow and retain customers. Customers expect a simple and straightforward payment process, and any issues or delays can lead to frustration and lost sales. Payment gateway providers like Fibonatix offer a range of payment solutions that cater to the unique needs of businesses. They provide secure payment processing, fraud prevention tools, and payment integrations that can help businesses streamline their payment process and reduce payment errors. In addition, payment gateways can also help businesses expand their customer base by accepting payments from customers across the globe. Payment service providers like Fibonatix offer multi-currency payment processing, allowing businesses to accept payments in multiple currencies and sell to customers worldwide. The good news is that many common payment gateway issues can be easily resolved with the right approach. H2 Payment declines Let’s start with payments being declined, which is a common issue that occurs when customers don’t have sufficient funds or have incorrect billing information. To address this, customers can try a different payment method, and merchants can check their payment gateway settings to ensure that everything is configured correctly. Payment delays are another common problem. It can happen due to network connectivity issues or server downtime. To prevent delays as a business owner, your team should monitor the payment gateway system and ensure that the servers are up and running correctly. H2 Chargebacks Chargebacks can be a headache for any business owner. It usually happens when customers dispute a transaction and request a refund from their bank. To prevent this, business owners need to provide clear product or service descriptions on their websites, offer refunds or exchanges, and have a robust fraud prevention system in place. Don’t neglect this when choosing a trustworthy payment service provider. H2 Technical Errors Technical errors can also be unavoidable sometimes, which can be frustrating for both customers and merchants. To resolve this, make sure you regularly test your payment gateway and ensure that the API settings are correct. H2 Payment gateway integration issues Lastly, integrating a payment gateway with other platforms or software can sometimes cause issues. To resolve this, it’s important to have the correct API credentials and check the platform’s compatibility with their payment gateway provider. Partnering with a reliable payment gateway provider like Fibonatix can also help prevent and resolve any payment gateway issues effectively. With their expert support and robust payment solutions, you can ensure a seamless payment experience for your customers and prevent any issues from impacting your business.

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7 Strategies to Grow Your Plumbing Business in 2023

7 Strategies to Grow Your Plumbing Business in 2023

Are you a plumbing business owner looking to expand your reach and attract more customers in 2023? With the right strategies in place, you can effectively grow your plumbing business and stay ahead of the competition. In this article, we will explore seven key strategies to help you achieve more plumbing leads. 1. Enhance Your Online Presence In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. To attract more customers, optimize your website and ensure it is mobile-friendly. Use relevant keywords such as “emergency plumber in London” or “unblock drains in Dartford” to improve your search engine rankings and target local customers. Consider creating informative blog posts on plumbing tips and tricks to establish yourself as an authority in the field. Another important aspect to consider is managing your digital footprint. Every online interaction, from customer reviews to social media posts, contributes to the overall image of your business. By actively monitoring and managing your digital footprint, you can ensure that your online reputation remains positive, while also identifying areas for improvement. This proactive approach can help build trust with potential customers and reinforce your brand’s credibility in the competitive market. 2. Invest in Local SEO To target customers in specific areas, invest in local search engine optimization (SEO). Optimize your website with location-specific keywords, such as “plumbing services in Birmingham” or “unblock drains in Dartford.” Register your business on online directories, like Google My Business, and encourage customers to leave reviews. This will improve your visibility in local search results and attract customers in your target demographic. 3. Provide Exceptional Customer Service Word-of-mouth referrals can significantly impact the growth of your plumbing business. Ensure that your customers receive exceptional service at every interaction. Be prompt in responding to inquiries, provide transparent pricing, and deliver high-quality workmanship. Happy customers are more likely to recommend your services to their friends, family, and colleagues. 4. Establish Partnerships Building strategic partnerships with other local businesses can be mutually beneficial. Partner with home renovation companies, real estate agents, or property management firms to tap into their customer base. Offer exclusive discounts or incentives for referrals, and consider cross-promotion through shared marketing efforts. This way, you can expand your reach and attract new customers. 5. Utilize Social Media Marketing Harness the power of social media platforms to connect with potential customers. Create engaging content related to plumbing tips, maintenance advice, and common problems faced by homeowners. Share before-and-after photos of your projects and encourage satisfied customers to leave testimonials. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages promptly. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you build brand awareness and generate more plumbing leads. 6. Offer Specialized Services Differentiate your plumbing business by offering specialized services that cater to specific customer needs. For example, you could provide eco-friendly plumbing solutions, boiler repairs, or bathroom renovations. By positioning yourself as an expert in these areas, you can attract customers who require these specialized services. Remember to optimize your website and content with relevant keywords to attract the right audience. 7. Focus on Customer Education Educating your customers is a powerful way to establish trust and build credibility. Create informative content, such as how-to guides and video tutorials, addressing common plumbing issues. Use keywords like “unclog drains in Dartford” or “prevent pipe leaks in Bristol” to target specific customer queries. By providing valuable information, you position yourself as a reliable resource and increase the likelihood of customers choosing your services. In conclusion, growing your plumbing business in 2023 requires a multifaceted approach. Enhance your online presence, invest in local SEO, provide exceptional customer service, establish partnerships, leverage social media marketing, offer specialized services, and focus on customer education. By implementing these strategies, you can attract more plumbing leads and achieve sustainable growth for your plumbing business in the United Kingdom.

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Smart Warehousing and Logistics: The Transformative Impact of Automation on Supply Chain Management

Smart Warehousing and Logistics: The Transformative Impact of Automation on Supply Chain Management

The rise of automation in supply chain management reflects the increasing complexity and scale of modern business operations. As companies strive to meet the growing demands of customers, the need for greater speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness has become paramount. In this context, industrial automation has proven to be a game-changing force, transforming the landscape of smart warehousing and logistics and redefining the entire supply chain process. The Era of Smart Warehousing Smart warehousing is the embodiment of technology-driven logistics, where goods are stored, sorted, packed, and tracked using advanced automation systems. This is a far cry from traditional warehousing, where manual labor was the primary force behind operations. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), robotics, drones, and wearable technology are now integral components of a smart warehouse. These tools work in conjunction to enhance productivity and accuracy, ensuring goods are handled and transported safely and efficiently. Beyond simply replacing manual labor, these technologies amplify human capabilities. Workers can manage and oversee operations from a centralized command center, leveraging technology to maintain real-time visibility of inventory, conduct error-free operations, utilize space efficiently, and ensure quick turnaround times. The outcome is a significant boost to the overall efficiency of the supply chain, with an elevated level of precision and control that was once thought impossible. Logistics Revolutionized by Automation Logistics—the act of moving goods from one place to another—is another area that has undergone a seismic transformation due to automation. Today, sophisticated algorithms, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning are used to predict demand, plan routes, and manage fleets. These advanced tools lead to reduced delivery times and improved customer satisfaction by ensuring goods reach their intended destinations on time and in optimal condition. Moreover, automation enables real-time tracking of goods, providing unparalleled transparency and minimizing the chances of loss or theft. This increased visibility across the supply chain allows for more effective risk management and faster decision making, enabling companies to respond swiftly to any unforeseen issues or changes in demand. Industrial Automation: A Paradigm Shift in Supply Chain Management Supply chain management, encompassing everything from sourcing raw materials to delivering the end product, has been revolutionized by industrial automation. The integration and streamlining of supply chain processes through automation technologies have led to remarkable gains in efficiency and significant cost reductions. Consider the role of advanced data analytics in predicting future trends and enabling proactive inventory management. Or the Internet of Things (IoT) devices that can monitor the condition of goods in real-time, ensuring top-notch quality control. Challenges and Opportunities in the Face of Automation The adoption of industrial automation comes with its own set of challenges, despite the numerous opportunities it presents. The implementation of new technologies can be costly, and companies need a skilled workforce to manage and maintain these systems. With the increase in dependency on digital platforms, cybersecurity threats also become a pressing concern that requires meticulous attention. On the upside, the benefits of automation far outweigh its challenges. The potential for significant cost savings is considerable, given the reduction in labor costs, minimization of errors, and optimization of resource use. Moreover, businesses that embrace automation are better equipped to adapt to market changes, meet customer expectations, and outpace competition, positioning them for long-term success. Human-Machine Symbiosis in Future Supply Chains The future of supply chain management is set to be shaped further by the increased integration of automation technologies. Innovations such as autonomous vehicles, smart contracts, and advanced AI systems are expected to continue streamlining processes, driving up efficiency, and facilitating growth. In this future, the role of humans will not be rendered obsolete but will undergo a significant transformation. Instead of manual tasks, human focus will shift towards designing, implementing, and managing these intricate automated systems. The human workforce will thus be in a position to handle more complex tasks, while repetitive and mundane tasks will be automated, leading to higher job satisfaction and productivity. A symbiotic relationship will emerge between humans and machines, fundamental to the success of automated supply chains. Machines will offer speed, precision, and the ability to handle high-volume tasks. Simultaneously, humans will contribute critical thinking, decision-making, and creative problem-solving skills, which are currently irreplaceable by artificial intelligence. Advent of Predictive Analytics and Advanced Technologies It’s anticipated that the manufacturing industry will experience an increase in the use of predictive analytics and AI, which will allow companies to anticipate market trends and customer demands, thus optimizing their supply chain process for maximum efficiency. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain will increase the visibility and traceability of goods, further enhancing transparency in the supply chain. The rise of advanced technologies such as 5G and edge computing will also significantly impact the future of supply chain management. These technologies will facilitate real-time data analysis and decision-making, allowing companies to respond to changes in the supply chain more quickly and effectively. Sourcing for Supply Chains In the broader scope of supply chain automation, the need of automation equipment and supplies for plants cannot be overstated. These refer to the array of machinery, equipment, and software used to automate various processes in manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers, often referred to as Industry 4.0 technologies. In a manufacturing plant, automation equipment such as robotics, conveyor systems, sorting systems, and packing machines eliminate repetitive, time-consuming tasks traditionally performed by humans. These automation systems can work around the clock, without fatigue, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing the chances of human error. Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities However, to successfully navigate this future landscape, organizations will need to invest in training their employees to manage these new technologies. It is also essential that businesses develop robust cybersecurity measures to protect their digital infrastructure from potential threats. The Role of Automation in Sustainable Practices As organizations adopt sustainable practices, automation can also play a significant role in reducing the environmental impact of supply chain operations. For instance, automated systems can optimize routes in real-time for fuel efficiency, while smart

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6 Essential Upgrades to Boost Your Property's Value

6 Essential Upgrades to Boost Your Property’s Value

At your property, only you have the power to unleash its hidden potential and increase its value. Through strategic upgrades, your humble abode could quickly become one of the coveted homes on the market. In this article we’ll take a closer look at six essential upgrades which can do exactly this, all designed not only to increase value, but enhance daily living experiences as well. 1. Curb Appeal Enhancements First impressions matter in real estate. By investing in curb appeal enhancements, you can captivate potential buyers from the moment they see your property. Simple measures like fresh landscaping and paint applications or renovating driveways will do wonders to create lasting positive experiences with potential buyers.  Additionally, adding outdoor lighting features that highlight architectural elements can further elevate the overall appeal. 2. Kitchen Remodeling Your kitchen holds enormous potential to increase in value. A kitchen renovation could breathe new life into this space by updating outdated appliances with energy-saving ones, installing attractive countertops and including modern fixtures that improve both style and functionality – for instance adding an eye-catching center gathering point such as an eye-catching island is sure to boost it further! 3. Energy Efficient Upgrades As more individuals become conscious about their energy use and consumption habits, investing in eco-friendly upgrades such as replacing windows with energy-saving ones or improving insulation can be not only environmentally beneficial but also show potential buyers your dedication to sustainability.  4. Smart Home Technology Integration  We live in an age where convenience and efficiency reign supreme, which makes integrating smart home tech a highly beneficial addition. Not only can it transform the appeal of your property – by giving you the ability to control lighting, thermostat and more using voice commands – it can also increase its value among tech-savvy buyers by adding futuristic touches that increase its worth. 5. Improved Storage Solutions Ample storage space is one of the cornerstones of home ownership, making built-in shelving, closet organizers and storage systems standout features that potential homebuyers appreciate.  These declutterers add an illusion of spaciousness – which adds real value to your property! Investing in these upgrades now could result in happier future buyers that appreciate the organization and functionality they bring. 6. Outdoor Living Spaces To maximize the value and attract buyers who appreciate outdoor living, create inviting outdoor living spaces. This could involve adding decks, patios or entertainment areas – complete with comfortable seating arrangements, lighting features and landscaping that compliments natural settings – into your property design plan.   You should also focus on making the structures outside your property as comfortable and safe as possible, whether it be by adding glazing sheets to the outdoor gazebo for more protection – for which you can shop here to buy – or simply cleaning and changing the water in the outdoor hot tub every so often. Conclusion Making strategic upgrades can bring immense benefits, elevating a property’s value in a highly-competitive real estate market and making it stand out as a prime offering. By carrying out some of the aforementioned upgrades, you will create an inviting living environment that appeals to modern buyers. These can elevate the value of your property and turn it into something truly exceptional.

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Keepmoat manager scoops High Sheriff Award

Keepmoat manager scoops High Sheriff Award

Mark Burley, Regional Social Value and Partnerships Manager at top 10 homebuilder Keepmoat, has been recognised for his work to help build a brighter future for prisoners at HMP Hull with the High Sheriff Award. The High Sheriff Award, officially presented by the High Sheriff for the East Riding of Yorkshire, Jacky Bowes, was bestowed after community champion Mark set up a scheme to support prisoners at HMP Hull, offering them opportunities to engage in activities which benefit communities, enhance their employability and work skills, and in turn have a positive impact on their self esteem. The scheme, coordinated by Keepmoat, in partnership with Hull City Council and Hull Citywide Consortium, aims to reduce site waste by providing old pallets to be upcycled into planters so prisoners can grow food for the local community. Mark was the driving force behind the scheme, the first of its kind in the area, and his innovative approach was noted by the High Sheriff. On receipt of the award, Mark said: “It’s an honour that my community work has been recognised with such a prestigious accolade. Supporting local communities and people’s employability skills is a key part of my role at Keepmoat and with the Citywide Partnership. “The project is life changing for prisoners and aims to boost their confidence and employability when they’re looking to re-enter the jobs market, especially in the construction industry. It also provides them with a sense of achievement when they see local people receiving the planters they make.” Following involvement from the prisoners, the planters are donated to EMS, a local charity in Hull that works with residents, community groups and local businesses to alleviate food and fuel poverty. The charity sets up community vegetable gardens that aim to promote a healthy lifestyle, allowing residents and families without a garden or allotment to grow their own produce. Thomas Leech, Industries Manager at HMP Hull, added: “At HMP Hull, we’re committed to providing prisoners with meaningful employment opportunities whilst in custody, along with relevant skills and training that they will be able to use on release. “Prisoners are learning new skills and working hard to produce planters from items that would have essentially gone to landfill. These planters are then given to people in the local community that have earned them through community credits doing things such as litter picking in the local area. The fact that prisoners are giving something back to the community creates a sense of pride and a real sense of purpose.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The Most Famous Casinos for Architecture

The Most Famous Casinos for Architecture

The casino business is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with operators splashing a fortune to design some of the most glamorous buildings worldwide. After all, most gamblers with money would easily want to associate themselves with a casino with state-of-the-art interior and exterior designs. In this article, we’ll list 6 top casino buildings with the most impressive structural architecture.  #1: The Venetian (Las Vegas) The Venetian is one of the most standout casino resorts worldwide. Located in Las Vegas, this land-based casino was designed by KlingStubbins, an engineering firm in Philadelphia. The groundbreaking for this resort started in 1997 before opening its doors to tourists and gamblers in May 1999. The building cost a staggering $1.4 billion to erect, making it one of the most expensive modern resorts. The Venetian houses multiple facilities, including The Opaline Theatre, The Sands Showroom, the Grand Canal Shoppes, and the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum.  #2: Luxor Casino (Las Vegas) Luxor is an ancient city in Egypt often associated with the majestic pharaohs. That said, Luxor Casino and Hotel is a 30-story building in Las Vegas that tries to copy everything about the ancient town. Opened in 1993, this casino was designed by Veldon Simpson and erected by Perini Building Company. However, after a year, the pyramid was topped off to give the casino a more Egyptian style. This venue was the tallest building on the Strip when it opened, although it was displaced by Treasure Island 11 days later. Just like online casino sites, Luxor Casino and Hotel offers diverse slot games, roulette and Poker tables.  #3: Wynn Palace (Macau) Wynn Palace by Wynn Resorts in Macau is one of the largest entertainment venues worldwide. It’s a modern-looking structure that opened in 2016 after the pre-foundation for the building started in 2013. Steve Wynn even described this building as the most aggressive, ambitious, and lovely project ever undertaken by Wynn Resorts. The facility houses modern attractions, including a 320k square feet performance lake, a 1,700-room hotel, pedestal gardens, gondolas, and more. Chinese floral themes and fine arts inside the resort will surely attract the wealthiest gamblers.  #4: Monte Carlo Casino (Monaco) Casino de Monte Carlo or Casino di Monte Carlo is one of the standout buildings in Monaco, France. This entertainment building was opened in July 1865 as a spa to treat various diseases. Later, a casino was opened inside the building before being expanded using the designs of Charles Garnier and Jules Dutrou. The former is famous for designing the iconic Paris opera house. The design alterations of Monte Carlo Casino included adding public spaces, gaming rooms, and concert halls. Monte Carlo Casino was again expanded in 1881.  #5: Bellagio (Las Vegas) Opened in October 1998, Bellagio is an Italian-themed casino restaurant in Last Vegas designed by Jon Jerde. This venue was designed and built using $1.6 billion and is operated by MGM Resorts International. It’s a 36-story tower located on 77 acres. You will find more than 3,000 hotel rooms and a 156k square feel casino floor inside Bellagio. The venue’s signature attraction is the dancing water fountain, Fountains of Bellagio, synchronized with music. There is also an 8-5-acre artificial lake.  #6: Caesars Palace (Las Vegas) If you’re looking for a casino with a classic Roman Empire theme, Caesars Palace is the place to be. The construction began in 1962 before the venue was launched in 1966. Caesars Palace’s most attractive aspects are the 18+ fountains, using 240+ million gallons of water yearly. On the entrance driveway, you’ll be greeted by a massive Julius Caesar statue hailing a taxi. The building also has statues of David and Venus greeting guests. And yes, the pool designs will make you feel like you’re taking a Roman bath. 

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https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/05/family-construction-firm-goes-into-liquidation-after-60-business-years/

Family Construction Firm Goes into Liquidation After 60 Business Years

After years of good service, a Scottish family firm has gone to liquidation, leaving 15 without a job in Helensburgh. The company, Stewart & Shields, based on the Firth of Clyde, was in the construction business for 60 good years till it fell prey to the constant contract delays, current labour market challenges, and the rising material costs that has been hunting the UK construction industry. FinTech Analysis: Cash Flow Challenges Became the Final Nail in the Coffin In one of the interviews, Interpath Advisory, the liquidators, mentioned that the family firm had to shut their operation due to severe “cash flow challenges.” Their closing posits several concerns regarding managing secure cash flow in such troubling times. Thus, often, one might hear analysts encourage SMEs into strategies like debt purchase—sell your debt to a B2B debt buyer and guarantee a source of cash. This is when a third-party buyer, like Intrum in the UK, buys the debts from the original creditor at a small discount and becomes the new creditor, who would later collect the full amount of the debt from the debtors. The severity of the situation is further expressed as Interpath Advisory mentions how Stewart & Shields managed to tackle the setbacks of the pandemic with a solid order sheet and major projects in the pipeline. However, despite all the efforts to keep the company afoot by the management, there were no options left to the directors but to cease the operations and seek assistance from the liquidation firm, said Interpath. Considering how the SMEs make up 60% of total employment in the UK with 52% of the country’s turnover, the current economic crisis poses threats to these establishments more than ever. This is where debt purchase can provide the SMEs with an immediate cash injection while saving the time, cost, and effort that would otherwise be spent on pursuing the debtors, reducing the risk of closing down. More Names that Succumbed to the UK Economic Turmoil Stewart & Shields is only one of the few to cease operations in the recent economic pressures that have been building all over Europe. Only in the UK, as the Creditsafe data shows, the 38 construction firms falling into administration this March marks a stark rise from the 8 in February and the 23 in January. Among this record-breaking disaster, you can find contractors like Northern Ireland based William Coates, electrical and specialists such as Norstead, and reputed cladding firms like Jessella. The Legacy of Stewart & Shields: A Good Goodbye _EDITED IAC0631 bdcmagazine.com Stewart & Shield has seen the end of an era in the construction sector in the United Kingdom. By setting up offices in the Scottish Borders, Inverclyde, and Glasgow, they also offered a number of construction services across Scotland for more than a few decades. Their works included sectors such as social housing, local authority projects alongside residential, commercial, and private contracts. Stewart & Shield’s most notable work includes the A’Chrannag social housing in Rothesay, the award-winning project which was considered the most energy efficient construction in Europe by the time of its completion in 2004. Additionally, they are the genius behind the construction of the Hermitage Pavilion in Helensburgh, a commercial building that achieved Passivhaus certification, marking a significant milestone in sustainable construction practices in Scotland.

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What is A Military Shelter System?

What is A Military Shelter System?

In every military operation, having a reliable shelter system is of utmost importance. It provides a secure and protected space for troops, regardless of weather conditions or terrain. Military shelters come in different shapes and sizes, ranging from small individual tents to large multi-room structures that can house an entire platoon. A military shelter serves as a place to sleep, store equipment, and even act as a command center, medical facility, and more. This article will delve into the different types of military shelter systems, their benefits, and why they are essential to military operations. The Essence Of Military Shelter Systems A military shelter system is a combination of shelter components that are engineered and designed to provide defense personnel with reliable protection and comfort under different environmental conditions. These shelter systems vary from basic tents to highly advanced modular units deployed anywhere in the world. Military shelter systems play a vital role in modern warfare. They provide soldiers and military personnel protection and an essential base of operations and logistical support. Many military shelters are available, each designed with specific needs in mind. For example, tent systems are often used as makeshift medical and command centers when other shelters are unavailable. They are also easy to erect and take down and are made of long-lasting, waterproof, and fire-resistant materials. The modular units, however, are designed for long-term use and offer more privacy and comfort. Their amenities, including insulation, heating, and cooling systems, make them a home away from home. Generally, military shelter systems are designed to be lightweight, durable, and easy to transport and set up. They should also be comfortable for long-term use and can provide maximum protection from outside threats. The Different Types Of Military Shelter Sytems Military shelter systems play a vital role in modern warfare. They provide soldiers and military personnel protection and an essential base of operations and logistical support. Various military shelters cater to specific needs. Here are some of the most common types of military shelters: 1. Tent System Tents come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, ranging from large canvas structures that house entire battalions to small, lightweight models that one or two soldiers can carry. They are known to be versatile, portable, and easy to set up. 2. Modular Systems Modular shelters have several components that can be configured into various shapes and sizes to meet specific needs. These systems are typically made of steel frames covered by canvas material or metal siding. This allows them to be quickly assembled or taken apart when necessary.  Modular shelters offer flexibility, portability, easy transportability, and rapid assembly/disassembly, making them ideal for deployments in remote locations or during rapidly changing tactical operations. 3. Containerized Systems Containerized systems are versatile and durable shelters that can be configured to meet specific needs. They include one or more shipping containers modified with additional components such as walls, floors, roofs, and doors.  They are easy to transport and set up, making them perfect for forward operating bases or other temporary military sites. They are primarily used in remote area operations and can be stacked to save space. 4. Bunkers Bunkers are fortified structures designed to protect from enemy forces and extreme weather conditions. The interior of a bunker often contains sleeping and living areas and storage compartments for supplies, weapons, and ammunition. They provide a high level of security and can withstand direct attacks, making them essential in conflict zones or areas prone to natural disasters. Advantages Of Military Shelter Systems Military shelter systems offer advantages that make them ideal for use in hazardous environments and challenging terrains. Their portability, durability, and protective capabilities make them an excellent choice for any military mission. One of the major benefits of using military shelter systems is their portability. Thanks to their lightweight design, they can be quickly deployed in any environment and easily set up. Not to mention they offer excellent protection from harsh conditions. Another key benefit is their durability. They are built with reinforced walls made from top-grade materials that have been tested for strength and durability. This makes them ideal for use in challenging terrain such as deserts or jungles where other shelter solutions may not be suitable.  Military shelter systems also provide excellent protection against a range of threats, including bullets and shrapnel. They are designed to deflect or absorb any explosion and provide additional security against chemical, biological, or radiological weapons. Additionally, some models feature advanced soundproofing technology to reduce noise levels in noisy areas.  Moreover, they offer great value for money because they can be reused repeatedly without needing replacement parts or repairs. This makes them an efficient, cost-effective shelter solution that provides maximum protection with minimal expenditure.  Conclusion Military shelter systems are essential in modern warfare. They offer troops the protection, comfort, and functionality to carry out their missions effectively. By understanding the different types of shelter systems and their benefits, military personnel can better equip themselves for any situation they may face. As a result, these shelters play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of military operations around the globe.

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Building on the sky's edge - Alumno regeneration project takes centre stage

Building on the sky’s edge – Alumno regeneration project takes centre stage

What do a successful musical and an award-winning purpose-built student accommodation developer have in common? Alumno Managing Director David Campbell reveals all… When we applied for planning permission for one of our most challenging, yet rewarding projects in 2018, little did we know that the journey would end with an Alumno team outing in March 2023 to see an award-winning musical at London’s National Theatre. Always looking for exciting and original projects, we were approached by our friends at Urban Splash to become involved in the regeneration of Sheffield’s iconic Park Hill Estate development. This striking, sublime, brutalist, yet much maligned, development was designed by Jack Lynn and Ivor Smith in the 1950s, providing almost 1,000 homes in 400 acres of high-rise blocks poetically named the ‘streets in the sky’.  Creativity in sync We always believed the city centre location made Park Hill ideal for student housing, so were honoured to be brought in to deliver our vision for phase 3 of the project, Béton House. After months of planning work, led by Sheffield-based Whittam Cox Architects, we convinced the local authority that our conservation-led approach to the design, preserving the historic character of the building, was the right move, and celebrated gaining planning permission in July 2018.  While we were preparing the plans for Béton House, another creative team were also working on a Park Hill project. In contrast to our preservation of the visual design, architecture and structure of the estate, they were marking and celebrating its social impact. Standing on the Sky’s Edge is the vibrant and compelling story of how Park Hill and its dwellers have changed across generations. It reflects the fluctuating face and personality of Sheffield, much in the same way as we saw the new student community as part of this legacy and a new vibrant community.  Songs and storeys When our construction partners Kier began work on Béton House, Standing on the Sky’s Edge was opening at Sheffield’s Crucible theatre to rave reviews. However, plans to tour were brutally brought to a halt by the pandemic. By the time the musical re-emerged in December 2022, Béton House was open, flourishing with vibrant student life. Another stage was complete in the revitalisation of a Sheffield landmark and social hub.  Meanwhile, the buzz around Standing on the Sky’s Edge was growing again, with the show soon to move to London’s famous National Theatre. Which was when the Alumno team went along to experience the show and revisit the themes and feelings that made Park Hill such an important project for us – and we were delighted to be mentioned in the show’s programme! The production has since won Best New Musical at the 2023 Olivier Awards. Our restoration of Park Hill will help to ensure the iconic estate has more stories for playwrights and songsmiths to tell about the people who live there for generations to come – and we are proud to say we have played our part.   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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