Category: News

The UK government is reviewing its financial support for AstraZeneca’s £450 million vaccine facility in Speke, raising concerns over the project’s future amidst ongoing discussions with the Treasury.

Asda’s grocery market share drops to 12.6%, reflecting a 6% decline in sales. Chairman Lord Rose expresses disappointment in the supermarket’s performance, urging its owner to step back from day-to-day management.

UK inflation unexpectedly increased to 2.2% in July, driven by a slower decline in energy prices. Despite this rise, the Bank of England is likely to continue cutting interest rates, aiming to balance growth and inflation.

The UK’s unemployment rate unexpectedly falls to 4.2% in July, while wage growth slows to its lowest rate in two years, according to ONS data. Interest rate expectations remain stable.

The ASA has banned ads by Huel and Zoe, citing the failure to disclose their commercial ties with Steven Bartlett. The regulator deemed the ads misleading for not revealing his financial interests.

Ministers are preparing to cap the profits landowners can make from selling green belt land as part of the government’s strategy to deliver 1.5 million new homes by 2030.

Indian business group Bharti Global acquires a 24.5% stake in BT from Patrick Drahi’s Altice UK. Bharti Global, now BT’s largest shareholder, confirms it has no intention of a full takeover.

UK inflation is expected to climb to 2.3% following the Bank of England’s recent interest rate cut. Analysts watch for economic signals under the new Labour government.

HMRC admits £19bn in unpaid taxes is unlikely to be recovered, with taxpayers facing increased call waiting times and cut-offs. Missed customer service targets highlight ongoing challenges for the department.

British Steel is close to securing a £600m state bailout as Labour pushes forward with plans to safeguard the Scunthorpe plant’s future, amidst union concerns and green transition challenges.

Asda plans to add more staff to manned checkouts, acknowledging the limit of self-service tills, to enhance customer experience and balance service options.

Vinted has reinstated its original delivery options following user complaints that recent changes made selling on the platform more difficult.

Michelle Mone has shut down two more companies, leaving her with just one remaining business, as investigations into an alleged multi-million-pound PPE fraud continue.

The Prince’s Trust and Sectra have launched a new programme in Belfast to help young people from diverse backgrounds access technology careers, offering practical training and direct career pathways.

Fast fashion giant Shein is scouting UK warehouse sites in the Midlands as it plans a £50bn listing on the London Stock Exchange, aiming to boost its e-commerce operations ahead of the float.