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A decade of digital success: Sowden & Sowden celebrate 10-year partnership with Ron Dearing UTC

admin — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:02:23 +0000

Award-winning creative and digital marketing agency Sowden & Sowden is proud to mark 10 years of partnership with Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) – a decade of driving student recruitment through standout education marketing campaigns and cutting-edge digital strategy.

Since its inception, Sowdens has supported the UTC’s journey with bold creative and a
data-driven digital strategy – helping to attract thousands of students, build employer trust,
and position the technical college as a trailblazer in technical education.

In 2024/2025 alone, the results speak volumes:

All open events sold out for both Y10 and Y12
10.6% year-on-year increase in applications
3,377 open event sign-ups – a 52% increase in three years
5,556% ROI per student

The success of the partnership lies in a multi-channel, targeted campaign strategy – spanning paid social, PPC, Google Display, out-of-home advertising, remarketing and data capture across platforms including Instagram, Snapchat, Eventbrite and Meta.

Polly Sowden, Director at Sowden & Sowden, said:

“Ron Dearing UTC is more than a client – it’s a long-standing partner with a shared belief in doing things differently. Over the past 10 years, we’ve helped craft a digital-first narrative that connects with students and families on every level, from strategic storytelling to sharp execution.

Our campaigns have helped drive consistent growth in applications, but more importantly, they’ve played a part in supporting a college delivering real change – with over 60 Employer Partners shaping the curriculum and 80% of apprenticeships secured in priority sectors like engineering, digital and creative. That impact matters – to us, to the school, and to the region.”

Ron Dearing UTC has transformed the educational landscape in Hull and beyond – with 60% of students going on to university and 40% into Apprenticeships, most of which are within industry-aligned pathways.

Ron Dearing UTC works closely with more than 60 Employer Partners – including founding partners KCOM, Reckitt, Siemens Gamesa, Smith+Nephew and Spencer Group – to ensure students leave ready to make an immediate impact in the workplace.

In the last 18 months alone, new Employer Partners have included BAE Systems, Associated British Ports, Centrica, East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Sarah Pashley, Principal of Ron Dearing UTC, said:

“Sowdens have been instrumental in supporting our growth over the last decade. They understand our values, our students and our ambitions – and their campaigns have consistently helped us stand out in a competitive marketplace.

Their work not only drives applications, but it also reflects the quality and professionalism of everything we do as a UTC. The team’s creativity, technical know-how and ability to reach the right audiences is a huge part of our ongoing success.”

The 10-year milestone with Ron Dearing UTC is just one chapter in Sowden & Sowden’s growing education portfolio. The agency has delivered high-impact campaigns for institutions across the UK, including long-standing clients Hull York Medical School, City of Wolverhampton College, Barking & Dagenham College and the University of Hull, and with recent wins including Capel Manor College, the Baker Dearing Educational Trust and Lycée Independent School plus a recent full social audit for Ravensbourne University and a brand strategy campaign for Leeds Trinity University.

Sowdens’ experience in the education sector spans decades. The agency was the first in the UK to win a prestigious HEIST Award for the launch of one of the first academies, followed by another for the launch of the first UTC. They’ve won the regional Digital Award for three consecutive years and held the Writers’ Guild Award for nine consecutive years – achievements that continue to position Sowden & Sowden as one of the most successful creative and digital agencies in the North of England.

Their growth trajectory shows no signs of slowing. In 2025, the agency welcomed strategic hires including Paid Digital Manager Yasmin Brown and Senior Marketing Executive Sam Tasker, reflecting a period of sustained success, multiple client wins and increased demand for its digital expertise. The agency was recently awarded Google Partner status, named a Living Wage Employer, received a ‘Strong’ rating from Plimsoll, and placed in the top 40% of £1m+ agencies in the UK, according to The Wow Company’s 2025 BenchPress report.

As Ron Dearing UTC continues to raise the bar in employer-led education, Sowden & Sowden have been retained for another year and will remain a driving force behind its student recruitment strategy – helping to inspire the next generation of innovators, engineers, and creators.

🇺🇸 Latest U.S. Trade Tariffs Hit UK Economy: What You Need to Know in 2025

admin — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:03:32 +0000

Updated April 25, 2025

Overview: Why U.S. Tariffs Matter to the UK Right Now

The recent announcement of sweeping U.S. trade tariffs by President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through global markets, and the UK economy is feeling the pressure. With new import tariffs now in effect, British exporters face tough new hurdles while the government scrambles to protect domestic industries.

Here’s everything you need to know about how these changes could affect trade, jobs, and prices in the UK.

What Are the 2025 U.S. Tariffs and Why Were They Introduced?

On April 2, 2025, President Trump declared a major economic policy shift dubbed “Liberation Day,” enforcing a 10% universal tariff on most imports and targeting specific goods—like British-made cars—with additional duties up to 25%.

This aggressive tariff regime is part of a broader effort to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and “bring manufacturing home,” according to the Trump administration.

UK Exporters at Risk: Which Industries Are Hit the Hardest?

British sectors most affected by these U.S. tariffs include:

Automotive manufacturing – facing a steep 25% import tariff in the U.S.
Aerospace and machinery
Luxury goods and food exports

These new costs could make UK products significantly less competitive in the American market.

What Has the UK Government Said?

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is actively negotiating with U.S. officials to reduce the impact of the tariffs. She has expressed “confidence in achieving a fair trade deal” that protects UK interests without sacrificing standards—particularly in agriculture and food safety.

To counter the economic strain, the UK recently suspended import tariffs on 89 products, including:

Pasta
Fruit juices
Electric car batteries

This is intended to help British businesses lower costs and soften inflationary effects on consumers.

Economic Outlook: What Do the Experts Say?

Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey warned of a potential “growth shock” for the UK economy due to trade disruption.
The IMF has downgraded the UK’s 2025 growth forecast from 1.6% to 1.1%, citing rising protectionism and trade friction.
Business leaders fear job losses and supply chain delays, particularly in export-heavy industries.

UK Balancing Act: U.S., EU, and China

The UK now faces a delicate diplomatic juggling act:

With the U.S.: Seeking a favorable trade deal post-Brexit while navigating Trump’s tariffs.
With the EU: Attempting to rebuild smoother trade ties.
With China: Managing cautious cooperation without compromising on security and ethics.

Trade experts warn that Britain must carefully calibrate its alliances to avoid long-term disadvantages.

What This Means for You

For everyday consumers and small businesses in the UK:

Imported goods may become more expensive
UK-made exports could drop in sales
Some product availability may be limited

Business owners are advised to review their supply chains, explore alternative markets, and stay updated on government support or tax relief programs.

Final Thoughts: Watch This Space

As negotiations unfold and global trade tensions rise, UK businesses and consumers will need to stay agile. The government’s balancing act between economic pragmatism and sovereign standards could shape the country’s trade future for years to come.

For ongoing updates, bookmark this page or sign up for our trade news alerts.

BAKKAVOR CREATES 60 LOCAL JOBS AT ITS TILMANSTONE SALADS BUSINESS

admin — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:02:15 +0000

Bakkavor today announces it is recruiting for 60 new jobs between now and the end of June, to support a period of growth for the business – which is already one of the largest employers in the region, with a 900 strong workforce.

Set against a national context of economic uncertainty and falling growth predictions for the UK economy, news of the new roles at Tilmanstone is a welcome employment boost for the local community.

A wide range of positions are available at the Tilmanstone site for skilled and semi-skilled individuals including hygiene and production operatives, skilled production roles, team leaders and multi-skilled engineers. Hours offered depend on the role and differ from day, evenings and night shift work.

The recruitment drive at Tilmanstone Salads is part of the business’s investment in people across the site. Following the appointment of Raj Singh as the site’s new General Manager, the business has taken a number of steps to invest in its people. In recent weeks, 14 colleagues have been through Bakkavor’s leadership training programme and, across the site, pay negotiations have been successfully concluded with inflation-busting 6% pay rises for Tilmanstone colleagues.

Raj Singh, Bakkavor General Manager at Tilmanstone Salads comments: “We are delighted the business is growing, despite the challenging market conditions and I would like to thank all our Tilmanstone colleagues for their passion and hard work as part of a great team effort. Our pay awards for the year ahead allow everyone to share in our success and our leadership training demonstrates our commitment to nurture talent from within. Our success as a business also allows us to create new job opportunities. Anyone looking for a new challenge, do get in touch and be part of one of the region’s fastest growing and most successful teams.”

Bakkavor has been operating in the Kent community for more than 50 years and is well established as part of the local community. The site works with local growers to produce bags of salads and premium salad meals for M&S throughout the UK.

Should you be interested in applying for a vacancy, please follow the link below.

www.bakkavor.com/careers

Jack Draper Makes History with Indian Wells Masters Victory

admin — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:02:29 +0000

British tennis sensation Jack Draper has made headlines around the world after clinching his first ATP Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells, defeating Holger Rune in a stunning final performance. The 23-year-old rising star dismantled Rune 6-2, 6-2 in a dominant display that has cemented his place among the elite in men’s tennis.

Born on December 22, 2001, in Sutton, London, Draper has been steadily climbing the ATP rankings since turning professional in 2018. His recent triumph in the California desert catapulted him to a career-high world No. 7 ranking as of March 18, 2025.

Draper’s route to the title was anything but easy. Along the way, he defeated several top players, including a career-defining semifinal victory over two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. With powerful left-handed groundstrokes and a composed demeanor under pressure, Draper showcased both skill and maturity far beyond his years.

Off the court, Draper is gaining recognition as well. With a modeling contract with IMG and features in publications like Vogue and Tatler, he is becoming a well-rounded public figure. Endorsement deals with Dunlop, Nike, and Vodafone have also contributed to his growing net worth, estimated at £3 million.

Tennis runs deep in Draper’s blood. His mother, Nicky Draper, was a top junior tennis player, and his father, Roger Draper, served as the chief executive of the Lawn Tennis Association. His older brother, Ben, played college tennis at the University of California, Berkeley. Jack began playing tennis at just three years old, practicing against a wall at the club where his mother coached.

Draper’s recent success has sparked speculation that he could be the next great British tennis star, potentially following in the footsteps of Andy Murray. With his breakthrough at Indian Wells, he has shown he has the tools, talent, and tenacity to compete at the very highest level.

As the 2025 tennis season continues, all eyes will be on Jack Draper to see if he can carry this momentum into the Grand Slams. One thing is certain: a new chapter in British tennis history is being written, and Jack Draper is holding the pen.

Betelgeuse: The Red Giant on the Edge of Explosion

admin — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 07:02:29 +0000

For centuries, Betelgeuse has fascinated stargazers and astronomers alike. Nestled in the shoulder of the Orion constellation, this massive red supergiant has long been a standout in the night sky. But recently, Betelgeuse has captured attention not just for its brightness—but for its destiny. Astronomers believe it could be nearing the end of its life in a dramatic finale: a supernova.

What is Betelgeuse?

Betelgeuse (pronounced “Beetlejuice”) is one of the largest and most luminous stars visible to the naked eye. It is located approximately 640 light-years from Earth and is classified as a red supergiant—meaning it has expanded to hundreds of times the diameter of our Sun as it nears the end of its stellar life. If placed in the center of our solar system, Betelgeuse would engulf the orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth, and even Mars.

The Dimming That Sparked a Frenzy

In late 2019 and early 2020, astronomers noticed something strange: Betelgeuse was dimming—dramatically. At one point, its brightness dropped by more than 60%. This phenomenon led to intense speculation that the star might be about to explode.

However, follow-up studies indicated that the dimming was likely caused by a combination of a surface temperature drop and the formation of a dust cloud created by Betelgeuse ejecting material into space. In other words, while it was dramatic, it wasn’t a sign of an imminent supernova—at least not yet.

Will Betelgeuse Go Supernova?

Yes—eventually. Betelgeuse is in the final stages of its life and is expected to go supernova sometime in the next 100,000 years, which is astronomically speaking, a blink of an eye. However, predicting the exact timing is extremely difficult.

When it does explode, the event will be one of the most spectacular astronomical sights in human history.

What Will We See?

When Betelgeuse goes supernova, it will shine as bright as the full moon, potentially even visible during the day. The light show will last for weeks or even months before gradually fading.

Though it may sound alarming, the explosion will pose no danger to Earth. At over 600 light-years away, the radiation from the supernova will have dissipated enough by the time it reaches us to be harmless—just awe-inspiring.

What Happens After the Explosion?

Once the supernova has run its course, Betelgeuse’s core will collapse. Depending on the mass left behind, it could become either a neutron star—a city-sized, ultra-dense object—or potentially a black hole, though that’s less likely.

Astronomers hope to catch this event in real-time with modern observatories and neutrino detectors, which could provide early warning signs just before the collapse occurs. Such an opportunity would be unprecedented in the history of modern astronomy.

Why It Matters

The eventual explosion of Betelgeuse offers scientists a rare and valuable opportunity to study a nearby supernova in detail. Supernovae are crucial in the life cycle of stars, spreading heavy elements like carbon and iron into the universe—materials essential for planets and life.

In many ways, Betelgeuse is a cosmic time capsule, ready to give us a front-row seat to one of the universe’s most powerful natural phenomena.

Spring Statement 2025: What to Expect from Chancellor Rachel Reeves

admin — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:02:29 +0000

Today, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to deliver the UK’s 2025 Spring Statement, outlining the government’s economic plans amidst a challenging fiscal landscape. With a backdrop of sluggish growth, rising debt, and mounting pressure on public services, the statement is expected to balance tough fiscal decisions with a vision for long-term stability.

Public Spending Cuts

One of the most significant announcements expected is a major reduction in public spending. Reeves is anticipated to introduce a 15% cut in Civil Service running costs, which could affect around 10,000 jobs. This move is aimed at streamlining government operations and curbing departmental budgets in an effort to rein in public expenditure.

Welfare Reform

Further welfare reforms are also on the cards, with the government targeting £5 billion in savings by 2029/30. These cuts are likely to focus on health-related benefits, such as Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment, as part of a broader drive to encourage employment and reduce long-term dependency on state support.

Economic Forecasts Downgraded

Adding to the sombre tone, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is expected to halve its growth forecast for 2025 from 2% to just 1%. This reflects the ongoing drag from higher interest rates, weak productivity, and global economic uncertainty. The downgraded forecast signals limited fiscal headroom for any major spending increases or tax giveaways.

No Major Tax Changes

Despite speculation, no significant tax changes are expected in this statement. Reeves is likely to hold off on any large fiscal moves until the Autumn Budget, choosing instead to use this update to lay the groundwork for future decisions. This approach allows for more data-driven policy shifts later in the year, once economic trends are clearer.

Boost to Defence Spending

In contrast to the spending cuts elsewhere, the government is poised to increase defence funding by £2.2 billion. This aligns with the UK’s broader strategic commitment to bolster national security in response to global threats and evolving geopolitical tensions.

A Balancing Act

Today’s Spring Statement is expected to reflect the government’s effort to restore economic credibility while addressing the cost of living, maintaining essential services, and preparing for future investments. With little room for manoeuvre, Rachel Reeves faces the delicate task of reassuring markets and the public alike that the UK is on a path to sustainable growth.

Lowering the tax burden is key to boosting confidence say small businesses – whilst a hiring freeze is the most likely consequence of falling confidence

admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 19:02:59 +0000

On the eve of the Spring Statement, more than nine in ten small businesses can think of positive things they would like to see announced that would give them greater business confidence for the months ahead. According to new research from Novuna Business Finance, conducted over the last 72 hours, the top five factors included:

· Lowering taxes for small businesses comparing to large companies (25%)

· A commitment to keep interest rates and inflation stable and at current levels (22%)

· A commitment to reducing red tape, simplifying the regulatory system (22%)

· Reverse the increase in employer NI contributions, due to start this April (21%)

· Reducing the tax burden on consumers to encourage consumer spending (20%)

Set against what small businesses hope for, the things they would be worried about included:

· A worsening growth outlook for the UK economy (37%)

· Personal tax going up and hitting consumer confidence (29%)

· Business taxes (direct and indirect) going up (28%)

· Further hikes to national insurance (25%)

· Changes to the VAT system (24%)

Further, small businesses said that if they were to feel negatively impacted by the Spring statement, the most likely consequences over the coming months would be to:

· Put off plans to create jobs / hire people (30%)

· Look to reduce the size of the workforce to control costs (29%)

· Delay making key capital investments in the business (29%)

The new poll this week of 282 small business owners and decision makers follows Novuna’s ongoing Business Barometer study, which has tracked in detail the growth outlook of more than 1,000 small businesses over the last 10 years. The latest figures for Q1 revealed that seven in 10 small businesses (71%) have been working on new initiatives to achieve future growth, despite the percentage predicting growth for Q1 (33%) dipping to a nine-month low (33%).

Thinking more generally about economic developments over the next 2-3 months, small businesses said that rising inflation (37%), business tax rises (29%), the living wage increasing (25%) and rising business running costs (25%) were the things that would be most likely to harm their businesses and their plans to achieve growth.

Joanna Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance commented: “We have tracked small business growth outlook in detail for the last 44 consecutive quarters. The picture for this quarter was one of bullish determination by many to adapt and work to secure future growth, whilst grappling with unprecedented market uncertainty and bigger financial burdens. Our latest snap survey aimed to capture a sense of small business sentiment this week. What’s positive is many enterprises know what would help them grow but, set against this, there are concerns about the prospect of rising inflation, further taxes and a worsening economic outlook generally.”

Maritime Capital join MEUM Group’s Ultra High Net Worth experts

admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:02:35 +0000

Property wealth guardians Maritime Capital have announced a strategic collaboration with MEUM Group, a leading provider of bespoke concierge services to high-net-worth (HNW) clients. The move sees Maritime Capital become advisers to MEUM Group’s HNW community, offering their extensive expertise in commercial property investment.

Mayfair-based law firm MEUM have assembled a panel of experts to act as consultants for every aspect of HNW life, giving clients their own tailored set of trusted advisers for legal, financial and lifestyle services.

Maritime have joined forces with the next-generation platform to provide commercial property consultancy, alongside other world-class organisations specialising in art and luxury assets, education, philanthropy, global mobility, reputation management and sustainability.

Expanding horizons

The new partnership highlights Maritime Capital’s commitment to mentor, nurture and safeguard client wealth and helps broaden their reach to deliver comprehensive commercial property investment services.

Working with MEUM Group enables Maritime Capital to enhance the level of advice and support available to HNW and UHNW individuals in the UK, ensuring they receive unparalleled guidance in property asset management.

“We are excited to collaborate with MEUM Group, whose dedication to providing exceptional service to high-net-worth clients aligns seamlessly with our own values,” said Toby Hunter, founder and director of Maritime Capital.

“This partnership allows us to extend our bespoke property investment expertise to a broader clientele, ensuring that HNW individuals receive the comprehensive support they need.”

Delivering value

Maritime Capital’s role will see them provide strategic advice on the acquisition, management and disposition of high-value properties to optimise investment returns.

Co-director Max Hunter added: “Our collaboration with MEUM Group represents a significant step in our mission to provide discreet, high-performance property investment services.

“We look forward to working closely with MEUM’s team of trusted advisers to deliver exceptional value to their clients.”

Shared philosophy

Having transacted more than £1.25 billion of UK property investments, Maritime Capital’s family-run team have built a reputation for nurturing long-term partnerships and consistently delivering strong returns for private clients and family offices.

The integration of Maritime Capital’s unrivalled understanding of the UK property market with MEUM’s innovative, client-centric approach, underlines a shared philosophy of delivering personalised, high-quality services rooted in trust, transparency and discretion.

Natural Reconnection: How Welsh Holidaymakers Master the Art of Restoration

admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:02:35 +0000

Welsh holidaymakers have pioneered a distinctive “nature-first, Europe-focused” approach to travel wellbeing that defies typical UK patterns. New research from InsureandGo reveals Wales leads the nation in ‘camping for nature’ immersion, with 54% choosing this holiday option compared with the national average (44%).

Welsh holidaymakers have found a distinctive formula combining European travel (54% prefer short-haul trips vs. 47% nationally) with nature immersion. Their approach to digital wellbeing is equally nuanced – while maintaining social connections digitally, (47% use their phone on holiday to check social media), they minimise work intrusions (only 14% check emails). This selective connectivity allows them to stay connected to people but disconnected from obligations.

These findings are from new research by InsureandGo, which explored the nation’s attitudes to health and wellbeing when planning their holidays for 2025.

Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at InsureandGo comments: “Welsh holidaymakers have developed a distinctive wellbeing formula for holidays. Their balance of European exploration with deep nature connection, combined with selective digital engagement, creates a uniquely effective approach to holiday recovery. Their higher tolerance for travel logistics stress, paired with lower work-related anxiety, demonstrates a healthy ability to prioritise what truly matters for restoration.”

“At InsureandGo, we recognise that people want stress-free holidays, which is why we work so hard to make it easy for our customers – both through our award-winning service and also the quality of cover we offer. Since the cost of living crisis, we have noticed that more people are cutting corners on their travel cover, and this can be an enormous false economy particularly for those with medical conditions. Holidays are all about relaxing and having peace of mind – and we recommend UK holidaymakers shop around for the best possible cover in order to avoid unwanted headaches when abroad.”

To discover more about InsureandGo visit: InsureandGo.com

Do follow InsureandGo’s sustainable travel news, including highlights of new research, on X at https://x.com/Go_Sustainably

Bentley Motors announces apprenticeship vacancies reaffirming commitment to future talent

admin — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 08:02:33 +0000

26 new apprenticeship vacancies are now open to join Bentley Motors in 2025
Successful applicants will play a role in Bentley’s transition to electrification to support the company’s Beyond100+ strategy
Strong emphasis on Manufacturing and Research & Development roles
Bentley received Top Employer status for 2025 for its commitment to developing an innovative and inclusive workplace
Further information available at careers.bentleymotors.com

(Crewe, 10 February 2025) Bentley Motors today announces the opening of vacancies for its latest apprenticeship programme, offering a unique opportunity for the next generation of talent to join the company as it transitions to full electrification.

The 2025 apprenticeship intake will offer roles in key business areas such as Manufacturing and Research and Development. These programmes will be based at Bentley’s ‘Dream Factory’ in Crewe and will offer structured training, hands-on experience, and mentorship from industry experts, ensuring apprentices gain the skills needed to excel in an electrified automotive future.

Dr. Karen Lange, Member of the Board for Human Resources at Bentley Motors, commented:
“Our apprentices are the future of Bentley Motors, and this year’s programme reflects our commitment to investing in skills that will drive innovation and sustainable luxury mobility. With Beyond100+ at the core of our strategy, we are creating opportunities that will shape not only Bentley’s future but the future of the automotive industry.”

Commenting on his experiences as an apprentice, Ben Unsworth, now a Digital Manufacturing Engineer, said:
“One of the most inspiring aspects of an apprenticeship at Bentley is the chance to work on meaningful projects from day one, such as the development of electrical vehicle technology. Being entrusted with significant responsibilities early on is both empowering and motivating.

“I was fortunate to receive fantastic opportunities and support throughout my apprenticeship, which allowed me to develop my technical expertise while also growing both personally and professionally. This journey ultimately led me to achieve the Apprentice of the Year award.”

Bentley Motors was recognised as a UK Top Employer for 2025, by the Top Employer Institute for the company’s commitment to developing an innovative and inclusive workplace.

Applications are now open and are welcomed from school or college leavers or those looking for a change of career. For more information on Apprenticeships and how to apply, please visit careers.bentleymotors.com. Applications will close 21 February 2025.