SGS Reviews Updates to China's National Technical Specification for Textile Fiber Content Identification
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 10:35 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 111.26, focusing on GB/T 29862-2026, the revised national standard for textile fiber content identification and labeling in China. Published as part of China's No. 30 announcement of approved national standards in 2026, it replaces GB/T 29862-2013. Taking effect on August 1, 2027, the updated standard establishes requirements for the identification, declaration and labeling of fiber content in textile products and aims to support accurate and standardized consumer information. It is divided into five parts: Fiber Content Label Requirements (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 4) Fiber Content Declaration Requirements (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 5) Fiber Content Tolerance Requirements (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 6) Fiber Content Test Methods (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 7) Conformity Judgement of Fiber Content Identification (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 8) The major technical changes in GB/T 29862-2026 include new requirements relating to recycled fibers, digital labeling and test methods, as well as revisions to labeling practices and conformity assessment requirements. The new requirements will impact textile and apparel manufacturers, importers, exporters, brand owners, retailers, distributors, testing laboratories, certification bodies and inspection organizations involved in fiber content identification and labeling activities. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 111.26 includes further information on the key requirements and technical changes introduced by GB/T 29862-2026. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 111.26 for more details. SGS softlines services SGS has a worldwide network of over 40 state-of-the-art laboratories, including 10 in China, specializing in the testing of apparel, footwear, and home textiles. Their committed team is drawn from multi-disciplinary backgrounds, allowing them to conduct a comprehensive range of physical, chemical and functional testing services for components, materials and finished products. SGS helps companies ensure quality, performance and compliance with international, industrial and regulatory standards worldwide. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's softlines services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full China Releases Updated National Standard for Textiles - GB/T 29862-2026 SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. Min Zhu Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations, Softlines, US and Canada Tel: +1 (97) 346-11230 Website: www.sgs.com/softlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
SGS Reports on New Food Contact Ceramics Regulation in Montenegro
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 10:23 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 110.26, outlining Montenegro's new regulation for ceramic articles intended to come into contact with food and the associated compliance documentation requirements. Published on June 24, 2026, in the Official Gazette of Montenegro (OGM), the Regulation on ceramic articles intended to come into contact with food, OGM No. 87/2026 ('the Regulation') updates the country's regulatory framework for food contact ceramics and replaces the previous legislation. The Regulation introduces documentation requirements to demonstrate compliance with applicable lead and cadmium migration limits. Stakeholders may be required to provide supporting evidence, including laboratory test results and information on test methods used to assess compliance. The Regulation affects stakeholders across the food contact ceramics supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in Montenegro. It entered into force on July 2, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 110.26 includes additional information on the Regulation and its requirements. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 110.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact materials services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Montenegro Issues New Regulation for Food Contact Ceramics SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Rising costs and weaker order books squeeze Scotland's plumbing and heating firms
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 05:20 EDT
SNIPEF warns of growing pressure on employers as 54% report falling margins and apprenticeship recruitment intentions fall to just 14% Scotland's plumbing and heating sector is facing rising costs, weakening order books and falling profit margins, leaving businesses with significantly less financial and operational headroom, according to the latest research from the Plumbing and Heating Federation (SNIPEF). In its latest State of Trade report for Q2 2026 , the Federation retains its overall Stable assessment, but warns that trading conditions are coming under increasing pressure. Some 96% of businesses reported higher material and product costs, with this sustained cost pressure continuing to weigh on profitability. More than half, 54%, reported declining profit margins, up from 49% a year ago, indicating that margin pressure is becoming an entrenched feature of trading conditions. The outlook for future work has also weakened, with 44% of firms reporting order books below expectations for the next six months, up from 37% a year ago. Only 19% reported workloads above expectations, pointing to a more cautious and less predictable pipeline. Current trading remains relatively resilient, although conditions have softened since Q1. Some 29% of businesses traded above expectations and 33% as expected, while the proportion experiencing quieter conditions increased from 29% in Q1 to 38% in Q2. Commenting on the findings, Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF , said: "These results show a profession that is still active, but under sustained and growing pressure. "Costs are rising across almost every business we surveyed, with more than half seeing margins fall and forward order books weakening. That combination reduces employers' confidence and capacity to invest, recruit and grow. "My concern is that these pressures are emerging at the same time as policymakers are looking to businesses to create more apprenticeships and build the skilled workforce Scotland needs. "If we are serious about increasing apprenticeship numbers, supporting housing delivery and meeting the demands of the transition to low carbon heating, then we need to focus just as much on the employers expected to make that investment as we do on the targets themselves." National apprenticeship ambitions clash with employer reality National ambitions to expand apprenticeships are colliding with a much more difficult employer reality, with only 14% of employers likely to recruit an apprentice in the next six months, down from 26% a year ago. This growing disconnect contrasts sharply with the political emphasis being placed on apprenticeships and technical education. The Scottish Government has committed to supporting 25,000 Modern Apprenticeships during 2026 to 2027 and is reviewing contribution rates for apprenticeship training, while Prime Minister Andy Burnham has placed technical routes and youth apprenticeships at the centre of the UK Government's skills agenda. Although SNIPEF welcomes these ambitions, it warns that increasing apprenticeship numbers depends on employers being willing and able to create the jobs and sustain the training. Plumbing and heating employers carry the majority of the four year apprenticeship investment, including wages, supervision, college release, reduced productivity during training and the financial risks associated with recruitment and retention. These pressures are particularly significant in a safety critical profession where training standards and workplace experience cannot simply be reduced to increase numbers. SNIPEF says greater attention must therefore be given to the employer side of the apprenticeship system, including the real costs of training and the support required to make recruitment sustainable. Retentions of more than £100,000 highlight payment pressures The research also reveals significant sums of working capital continuing to be tied up through construction retentions. More than one third of businesses, 35%, reported having more than £10,000 held in retentions, while 15% had more than £100,000 withheld. The findings come as the UK Parliament considers the Commercial Payments Bill, which proposes major changes to construction payment practices, including a ban on the deduction and withholding of cash retentions under construction contracts. The measure is intended to address longstanding concerns about subcontractors effectively financing projects through money held back further up the supply chain. However, SNIPEF is calling for greater clarity over what will replace retentions. The Federation is concerned that an unintended consequence of reform could be the introduction of alternative forms of security that are more expensive or harder to access, disproportionately disadvantaging small and medium sized contractors. SNIPEF says any replacement must be proportionate, affordable and workable for businesses throughout the construction supply chain, with clarity provided before the new arrangements take effect. ENDS
Midlands Farms and Market Gardens Turn to Manual Handling Equipment as Harvest Season Peaks
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 03:51 EDT
As harvest season reaches its peak, smaller farms and market gardens are once again relying on pallet trucks, stacker trucks and lift tables to move produce quickly from field to store without the cost or complexity of powered equipment. Midland Pallet Trucks says this time of year consistently sees a rise in demand from growers needing to shift heavy volumes of fruit, vegetables and other produce over a short, intense window. For many smaller growers, August and September bring a sudden jump in the amount of stock that needs handling, often with the same small team that manages the rest of the year. Crates of produce need to move from picking areas to packing sheds, then on to cold storage or straight onto delivery vehicles, frequently several times a day during the busiest weeks. This is exactly the kind of short, sharp seasonal pressure that manual equipment is well suited to, offering a practical, lower-cost way to keep produce moving without the upkeep or charging requirements of powered alternatives. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "We see the same pattern every year. Around this time, we get a real spike in enquiries from smaller farms and market gardens across the Midlands who suddenly need to move a lot more stock than usual, for a relatively short period. For a lot of these businesses, investing in powered equipment for a few intense weeks a year simply doesn't add up. "A good manual pallet truck or stacker does the job well. It's straightforward to use, doesn't need charging or fuel, and can be picked up by whoever's available that day, which matters when you're relying on seasonal or part-time help during a busy harvest. "What we'd say to growers is that it's worth checking equipment now, before things get really busy. Wheels, hydraulics and forks all take a battering during a heavy harvest period, and the last thing anyone wants is equipment failing halfway through picking season. A quick check now can save a lot of disruption later. "It's a reminder that not every handling problem needs an expensive solution. Sometimes the simplest bit of kit, kept in good working order, is exactly what a smaller growing business needs to get through its busiest weeks of the year." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com.
ASOS and Novotique finance chief Tom Wills joins Modo25 and ASK BOSCO® as Chief Financial Officer
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 12:12 EDT
Appointment follows £4.1m Gresham House Ventures investment and the launch of ASK BOSCO® in the Shopify App Store, as the business looks to further accelerate its growth. 18 August 2026. Modo25, the digital marketing business behind AI analytics platform ASK BOSCO®, has appointed Tom Wills as Chief Financial Officer. Wills brings more than 15 years of finance experience from ASOS.com, EDF Energy and British American Tobacco, as well as seven years as co-founder and CFO of data business Novotique. At Novotique, he helped take the business through a management buy-out and subsequent funding rounds to Series B. He has spent much of his career raising and managing money, supporting businesses on their growth journey. He joins Modo25/ASK BOSCO® at a significant point in the company's growth. Gresham House Ventures led a £4.1m investment into ASK BOSCO® in July 2025, backing a business whose angel investors include Skyscanner co-founder Bonamy Grimes and former Sky Betting & Gaming chief executive Richard Flint. In March 2026, ASK BOSCO® launched in the Shopify App Store. The business is now entering the next phase of its expansion, with Wills leading its finance function. From performance to profit Most ecommerce reporting tells a merchant what their advertising spend returned. ASK BOSCO® is designed to tell them what that spend actually made. The Shopify app connects advertising data with real product margin and live inventory, giving brands and retailers a clearer picture of which products are genuinely profitable to advertise. That means they can see beyond return on ad spend, avoid spending money promoting products that are about to run out of stock, and understand how marketing activity is affecting the bottom line. ASK BOSCO® brings data from platforms including GA4, Meta, Google Ads, Klaviyo and Shopify into one place. It also lets users ask questions in plain English and forecast future performance. For Wills, the move from measuring performance to understanding profit is one of the reasons he wanted to join the business. "The problem ASK BOSCO® solves was my problem" Wills spent part of his career at ASOS, where he worked on the international business and produced the digital marketing and sales reports used to make weekly trading decisions. "The problem ASK BOSCO® solves was my problem," said Tom Wills, CFO at Modo25 and ASK BOSCO®. "Every Monday at ASOS I was in early, pulling together the marketing and sales numbers because the decisions being made that week depended on them. Getting that information right and on time was worth real money to the business. I have sat in the seat our customers sit in, so I understand why this matters. "What made this the right move now is the combination of a genuine market need, AI that is built into the product rather than bolted on, and a management team that really understands the space. "ASK BOSCO® is a business at an exciting inflection point. My focus is on bringing financial rigour as we accelerate, so the team has the foundations and the runway to keep building." Building for the next stage Wills will work closely with founder and CEO John Readman and COO Abi Liddle to bolster the business's finance function, ensuring the business is well positioned for its next capital raise. "We didn't hire a CFO just to keep the books," said John Readman, Founder and CEO of Modo25 and ASK BOSCO®. "We wanted someone who has sat on both sides of the table. Tom has been the buyer our customers are, and he has raised and deployed capital through four rounds at a data business. He understands what investors need, but also what it takes to make the money work once you've raised it. We put him through a robust process because this is an important appointment for the next phase of the business. As we look to accelerate our growth, we are pushing further into Shopify and the US, and we now have the finance leadership to match that ambition." Hamza Rafiq, Associate Director at Gresham House Ventures, said: "Since we led the round in 2025, ASK BOSCO® has made real strides in strengthening its senior leadership, with hires across product and technology and now Tom joining as CFO. Helping our portfolio companies execute their people plan is a core part of the support we provide at Gresham House Ventures, enabling them to build teams that can accelerate growth and navigate complex, fast-changing markets. Tom has spent his career growing businesses in ecommerce and data, so he understands both the problem ASK BOSCO® is solving and the added complexity AI is bringing to the market. He has been through the scaling journey before and brings that first-hand experience to help execute ASK BOSCO's growth plans, including the opportunity opened up by the recently launched Shopify app. We are delighted to have him on board." ENDS About ASK BOSCO® ASK BOSCO® is an AI analytics platform that brings fragmented marketing and ecommerce data into one place. It gives brands and retailers a clearer view of sales and marketing performance, answers questions in plain English and provides recommendations on what to do next - without waiting for a data analyst or digging through spreadsheets. By connecting advertising spend to real product margin and inventory, ASK BOSCO® helps businesses understand which products and channels are actually making money and where they can grow profitably. No coding required. ASK BOSCO® is available in the Shopify App Store and at askbosco.io. About Modo25 Modo25 is a Leeds-based global digital marketing business specialising in supported in-housing. It helps client teams take their marketing in-house while giving them access to agency expertise when they need it. Modo25 is the company behind ASK BOSCO®. Its clients are given access to ASK BOSCO®, giving them greater transparency over their performance, their spend and the work being carried out on their behalf. About Gresham House Ventures: Gresham House Ventures is an experienced investor, providing flexible growth and secondary capital. Gresham House Ventures partners with exceptional management teams in fast-growing, innovative businesses across a diversified range of sectors, including enterprise solutions, healthcare & education and consumer markets. The team has been working together for over 20 years and has made over 200 investments into growth businesses. https://www.greshamhouseventures.com Gresham House Ventures is part of Gresham House, a specialist alternative asset management group that is focused on delivering financial returns for clients by investing in the global themes shaping our future. Gresham House invests across a range of strategies, with expertise in private and public equity, forestry and natural capital, sustainable infrastructure, real estate, renewable energy and battery energy storage. Gresham House is committed to operating responsibly and sustainably, taking the long view in delivering sustainable investment solutions. Notes to editors Tom Wills joined Modo25 and ASK BOSCO® in August 2026. Previous roles include co-founder and CFO of Novotique for seven years, senior finance roles at ASOS.com, EDF Energy and British American Tobacco, and experience in digital publishing. Wills qualified in practice before moving in-house. He is Australian and has been UK-based for almost 20 years. Gresham House Ventures led a £4.1m investment into ASK BOSCO®, announced on 1 July 2025. Other backers include Bonamy Grimes, co-founder of Skyscanner, and Richard Flint, former CEO of Sky Betting & Gaming. ASK BOSCO® AI Analytics Reports launched in the Shopify App Store on 6 March 2026 and currently holds a 5.0 review rating. Interviews with John Readman and Tom Wills are available on request. Headshots and brand assets are also available.
Gen Z Is Rewriting Online Discovery, But Most Retailers Aren't Keeping Up Research Indicates
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 09:06 EDT
Gen Z is abandoning traditional search in favour of visual and conversational discovery, forcing retailers and travel brands to rethink how customers find products and experiences online. Data cited in a new analysis from Firney shows that 62% of Gen Z and Millennials prefer visual search, while 43% of Gen Z now begin product discovery on platforms such as TikTok rather than Google. Around 70% are also using AI tools at some stage in the shopping journey. The shift is exposing a growing gap between how digital platforms are built and how younger audiences actually behave. For years, websites have been designed around keyword search, structured navigation and filters. But Gen Z users are increasingly bypassing these systems altogether, relying instead on images, short-form video and conversational prompts to express intent. In practice, this creates a very different starting point. Instead of typing "black running shoes", users are more likely to upload an image, reference a look or ask a question such as "something like this but for winter". Crucially, they expect immediate, relevant results. At the same time, discovery is moving away from brand-owned platforms. Increasingly, it happens earlier in the journey on social channels or through visual content. By the time a user reaches a website, expectations have already shifted. They are looking to be guided, not asked to start again. Most retail and travel platforms, however, remain built around structured search and fixed navigation. These systems assume users arrive with clear intent and precise queries. For a generation that explores through ideas, images and prompts, that assumption no longer holds. This is not just a UX challenge but a commercial one: as discovery increasingly happens off-site, websites risk losing influence over the customer's final decision; either because they aren't cited within LLM answers, or because they fail to respond quickly and intuitively to visitors arriving further down the funnel. Marc Firth, CEO and co-founder of Firney, said the shift requires a fundamental rethink of how digital experiences are designed. "Gen Z thinks in ideas, images and questions," he said. "If a website can't respond to that, it's not just frustrating, it's commercially ineffective." For retailers and travel brands, this changes the role of the website. It is no longer where discovery begins, but where it continues. "When a customer arrives on site having started their product discovery on an LLM or an influencer-led journey, they are looking to verify what they've been told is accurate; meaning items like reviews, testimonials and other social proof need to be higher and more visible on the page." That means your website needs to handle both visitors who are starting their product discovery, plus those who arrive informed on what they need to buy and helping them move forward without friction. "The brands that win will be the ones that understand intent quickly and guide people to decisions in a natural way," Firth added. The analysis points to a future defined by digital experiences that interpret intent, respond conversationally, personalise in real time and look great, all within seconds. As consumer behaviour continues to shift, this kind of experience is expected to play a central role in how customers find, evaluate and choose what to buy or book. For more information, please visit https://www.firney.com .
The GCSE Results Gap: Results Don't Tell Employers Who Will Thrive at Work, Education Expert Warns
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 06:33 EDT
As hundreds of thousands of teenagers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland prepare to receive their GCSE results this Thursday, employers are being urged to question how much those grades really tell them about a young person's future potential. While results day can feel like a verdict on a teenager's prospects, evidence suggests employers themselves are increasingly moving away from using academic achievement as a recruitment filter. Data from the Institute of Student Employers shows the share of employers requiring specific A-level grades has roughly halved since 2015/16, while the proportion setting no minimum academic requirement has more than doubled. Major employers have also challenged the value of academic thresholds. PwC and EY both removed hard academic requirements from graduate recruitment, with EY doing so after finding no link between university performance and later career success among its own employees. Learnlife, an education innovator founded in Barcelona in 2017, believes the shift reflects a wider problem with the way young people's abilities are assessed. It argues that grades can demonstrate achievement in particular subjects, but tell employers far less about qualities such as creativity, resilience, collaboration, initiative, adaptability and self-direction. Those qualities are becoming increasingly important in the workplace. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 identifies analytical thinking, resilience, creative thinking and self-awareness among the skills employers increasingly value. Stephen Harris, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Learnlife, said: "Results day is traditionally framed as a verdict, and for a narrow slice of ability that is roughly what it is. The trouble starts when employers treat that verdict as a proxy for everything else a young person can do. "We are not telling anyone grades are meaningless. We are asking why so few organisations have built a way to see past them. A single number cannot tell the whole story, never has, and never will." Learnlife has developed an alternative approach designed to give a broader picture of what a young person can actually do. Rather than relying solely on exam scores, learners are assessed across fifteen competencies spanning five domains, including areas such as self-direction and ethical judgement. Evidence of their development is recorded through work and projects mentors have actually seen, creating a lifelong, learner-owned record known as the Learning Vitae. Learnlife says this type of evidence can help demonstrate qualities that are difficult to capture in a timed written exam, from solving problems and working with others to taking initiative and applying knowledge in real-world situations. Its graduates have gone on to found companies, win scholarships based on demonstrated readiness rather than ranked scores, and secure places at institutions including Harbour.Space in Bangkok and Trinity College Dublin. Harris believes the challenge for employers is not to abandon academic achievement, but to stop expecting grades to answer questions they were never designed to answer. For more information, visit www.learnlife.com .
Cold Storage Operators Warned to Factor in Battery Performance When Running Electric Handling Equipment
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 04:05 EDT
Businesses running electric pallet trucks , lift tables and stacker trucks in refrigerated or frozen environments are being urged to pay closer attention to battery performance, as lithium batteries lose both capacity and charge retention in colder temperatures. Pallet Truck Shop says the issue is often overlooked by operators who assume equipment will perform the same way in a -25°C freezer store as it does on a standard warehouse floor. Cold storage has become one of the fastest-growing parts of UK warehousing, driven by demand for refrigerated food, drink and pharmaceutical storage. As more of that space is fitted out with electric handling equipment rather than manual alternatives, understanding how batteries behave in these conditions is becoming a genuinely practical concern, not just a technical detail. Cold temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside a lithium battery, which reduces both the amount of usable charge available and how efficiently that charge is delivered. In practice, this can mean shorter run times between charges, slower charging itself, and batteries that appear to lose capacity more quickly over their working life if they're routinely operated in freezing conditions without any adjustment to charging habits. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said, "It catches people out because the equipment still looks and feels the same, it just doesn't perform quite as well. A pallet truck that comfortably does a full shift in a normal warehouse might need charging twice as often once it's working in a blast freezer, and that's before you even think about the impact on battery lifespan over time. "The good news is that most of this is manageable with a bit of planning. Charging equipment in a warmer area when possible, keeping batteries topped up rather than letting them run right down, and choosing equipment genuinely suited to cold environments in the first place all make a real difference. "What we'd encourage is for operators to actually ask the question before they buy or lease equipment for a cold store, rather than working it out the hard way once it's already on the floor. Not all electric handling equipment is built with those conditions in mind, and the wrong choice ends up costing more in downtime and battery replacement than it would have done to specify correctly from the start." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Southern Careers Institute Harlingen Branch Campus to Host Welding Competition
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 15:52 EDT
Southern Careers Institute (SCI) will host an internal Welding competition for students at its Harlingen Branch Campus on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m . While the competition is exclusively for SCI Harlingen Branch Campus Welding students, the event is free and open to the public , providing community members and prospective students with an opportunity to experience Welding training firsthand. Guests are invited to visit the SCI Harlingen Branch Campus at 1122 Morgan Blvd., Harlingen, TX 78550 , where they can tour the campus and watch the Welding competition live. The event offers an engaging opportunity for individuals interested in Welding and Skilled Trades to get an inside look at the Welding program, explore the campus environment, and see students put their skills into practice during a friendly competition. "Events like this give our community an opportunity to see the dedication and hands-on work that goes into Welding training," said Gilbert Barrera, Director of Education at the SCI Harlingen Branch Campus . "We welcome anyone interested in Welding or the Skilled Trades to come tour our Harlingen Branch Campus, meet our team and experience the competition." The competition is designed for current SCI Harlingen Welding students and will provide participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a competitive setting. Members of the public are encouraged to attend, observe the competition and tour the campus at the event. Whether someone is considering a career in Welding, exploring Skilled Trades for the first time or simply interested in seeing welding in action, the event provides a chance to experience the program firsthand. Event Details What: SCI Harlingen Branch Campus Welding Student Competition & Campus Tour When: Wednesday, August 26, 2026 | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Southern Careers Institute Harlingen Branch Campus Address: 1122 Morgan Blvd., Harlingen, TX 78550 Cost: Free and open to the public. Space is limited. For more information about Southern Careers Institute and its programs, call (844) 783-6569 or visit scitexas.edu . About Southern Careers Institute Founded in 1960, Southern Careers Institute (SCI) has been dedicated to empowering Texas students through career-focused education. With eight campuses conveniently located in Austin, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Pharr, San Antonio North, San Antonio South, and Waco, SCI offers a diverse array of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers and meaningful community contributions. Our training programs encompass various fields, including Business, Beauty, Allied Health, Technology, and Trades, with options for hybrid and online learning to accommodate different learning styles. Please note that not all programs are available at every campus. The Southern Careers Institute Austin Main campus is located at 1701 W Ben White Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704. Phone: 512-432-1400 Website: scitexas.edu Press Contact Alyssa Luna Southern Careers Institute alyssa.luna@scitexas.edu
Albright College Named an International College of Distinction
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 12:05 EDT
Albright College Named an International College of Distinction Albright College has been named a 2026-2027 International College of Distinction for its support of students from more than 20 countries. READING, Pa. - August 18, 2026 - Choosing to study far from home requires an extraordinary level of trust. International students arrive on campus having left behind familiar systems, languages and support networks, counting on their institution to meet that trust with real, substantive support. Colleges of Distinction has named Albright College a 2026-2027 International College of Distinction, recognizing its commitment to honoring that trust at every stage of the student experience. This recognition goes beyond international enrollment numbers. It reflects an evaluation of the policies, programs and campus culture that determine whether international students are truly set up to succeed academically, socially and professionally. "International students bring perspectives to our classrooms and residence halls that make Albright a richer place to learn," Albright President Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D. said. "Our job is to make sure that from the day they arrive, they have the community, the guidance and the resources to feel at home here, and to thrive, academically and personally, long after they graduate." "Welcoming international students is one thing," said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. "Supporting them is another. Albright College has built the infrastructure, the staffing and the campus culture to do both exceptionally well." Dedicated admission counselors guide prospective students through the application, transcript-evaluation and English-proficiency process, and the student-led International Student Association fosters cross-cultural understanding and connects international students with peers across campus. Albright is home to students from more than 20 countries, a diversity that builds cross-cultural competence for domestic and international students alike as they prepare to enter increasingly global careers. International students also have full access to Albright's Student Success Center for tutoring, writing support and academic coaching, as well as the Experiential Learning and Career Development Center's counseling, employer connections and experiential learning opportunities as they plan their next steps after Albright. "International students bring perspectives, experiences and talents that make every campus richer," Schritter added. "Albright understands that and invests in making sure those students have everything they need to thrive there and beyond." To learn more about Albright's international student resources, visit albright.edu/admission-and-aid/international or CollegesofDistinction.com. About Albright Albright College, founded in 1856, is Berks County's oldest institution of higher learning. Located on a 118-acre suburban campus in Reading, Pa., Albright offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a distinctive interdisciplinary focus, including a flexible co-major program that empowers students to build a truly personalized academic experience. The College's mission is to equip students to live their best lives, now and in the future, while serving the broader community through educational outreach and meaningful partnerships. Learn more at albright.edu. About Colleges of Distinction Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been a trusted resource for identifying excellence in higher education. The platform honors schools that prioritize the student experience through engaged learning, expert teaching, vibrant community spaces and successful post-graduate outcomes. Its website provides specialized tools, insights and search filters to help students find the ideal campus fit. Learn more at CollegesofDistinction.com.
National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Opens Nominations for 2027 Induction Class
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 12:04 EDT
Nominations Accepted Through October 31, 2026; 2027 Induction Ceremony to Take Place June 12 in Lexington, Kentucky The National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame (NLEOHOF) is now accepting nominations for its 2027 Hall of Fame Induction Class , recognizing extraordinary law enforcement officers whose courage, service, leadership and lasting impact exemplify the very best of the profession. Nominations are open now through October 31, 2026 , and may be submitted at nationalleohalloffame.com The 2027 induction will mark an exciting new chapter for the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame as the organization brings its annual ceremony to Lexington, Kentucky , with GALLS continuing its support as the Hall of Fame's presenting sponsor. The 2027 National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held June 12, 2027, at Central Bank Center in Lexington . The move represents the Hall of Fame's continued national growth and its commitment to creating a lasting home for honoring the men and women whose service has made an extraordinary impact on their communities and the law enforcement profession. "Every year, we are reminded that behind the badge are incredible stories of courage, sacrifice, leadership and service that deserve to be remembered," said Megan Stockburger, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame . "These nominations allow departments, families, colleagues and communities across the country to help us tell those stories and ensure exceptional service is never forgotten." Nominations may recognize active, retired or fallen law enforcement professionals across a variety of award categories, including: Distinguished Service Award - recognizing an exceptional career of leadership, service, and lasting impact. Courage in Service Award - honoring extraordinary courage demonstrated in the line of duty. K9 Award - recognizing exceptional K9 teams and their contributions to law enforcement and public safety. The McDavid Group Charities Never Forgotten Award - honoring a legacy of service and ensuring the sacrifice and impact of deserving law enforcement professionals are never forgotten. Additional Hall of Fame categories recognizing extraordinary achievement, leadership, sacrifice, innovation, and service within the law enforcement community. The National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame exists to ensure that extraordinary service does not go unnoticed and that the stories of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others are preserved for generations to come. Individuals, agencies, colleagues, family members and members of the community are encouraged to nominate deserving law enforcement professionals. Nominations close October 31, 2026. To submit a nomination or learn more about the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame, visit nationalleohalloffame.com . MEDIA & NOMINATION INFORMATION For additional information, interview requests or questions regarding nominations, please contact: Megan Stockburger Co-Founder & Executive Director National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame nationalleohalloffame.com
Accuracy X, Inc. Unveils Multi-Sight™ MAX System
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 11:43 EDT
Accuracy X, Inc (AXI) , the makers of the world's proven most accurate pistols, has introduced the Multi-Sight™ MAX System, a patented optic-mounting platform that pairs the ultra-low profile of a direct mount with the durability and configurability the company has built its reputation on. The new system expands, rather than replaces, the original Multi-Sight System , which remains in production and fully supported. Direct-mounting a red dot has traditionally forced shooters to trade away long-term reliability and versatility. The Multi-Sight MAX ends that compromise. At the core of the system is the company's patented Index-Recoil Lug, engineered to absorb the shear forces that break fasteners, destroy optics, and shift zero. The result is absolute zero retention across repeated plate changes. The system's patent-pending Direct Depth Mounting System routes mounting screws directly into the slide instead of through a threaded plate, allowing Accuracy X to machine deeper pockets and seat optics lower than conventional direct mounts. The resulting height-over-bore is the lowest achievable on a pistol slide. Configurability comes from the SLOT Sight™ System paired with a new Rapid Change Interface, which lets shooters swap front and rear sight blades, from suppressor height to compact co-witness, without removing the red dot. A front-mounted co-witness option addresses snag concerns raised by some law enforcement agencies, and an integrated, ambidextrous slide racker rounds out a competition-ready feature set. The Multi-Sight MAX supports the three most popular optic footprints, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, Aimpoint ACRO, and Trijicon RMR, which together account for about 95 percent of red-dot sights in use. Additional modules and accessories are planned. "For years, shooters have had to choose between the ultra-low profile of a direct mount and the reliability and versatility of a robust system," said Steve Huff, president of Accuracy X. "We refused to accept that compromise. The Multi-Sight MAX gets the dot as low as it can go and lets you tune your entire setup without ever touching your red dot. When excellent isn't good enough, this is what comes next."' Watch an in-depth technical breakdown of the Multi-Sight MAX system and discover how this low-profile, modular sight mounting platform revolutionizes versatility for handguns in the recent video " The Ultimate Optic Solution: Deep Dive Into the Multi-Sight MAX System. " The video discusses machining tolerances, optic compatibility, co-witness options, and why this system is changing the game for competitive and tactical shooters alike. It is available now for licensed partners. Full specifications will be available at www.accuracyx.com . For more information on Accuracy X, visit its website or follow along on Instagram , Facebook , X , or YouTube .
Tioxide restarts TiO2 plant in UK - heralding new era for pigment production at historic Greatham site
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 09:20 EDT
Tioxide Materials Limited ( Tioxide ) today announced the successful recommissioning of the titanium dioxide (TiO₂) pigment production facility at Greatham in Hartlepool, marking a major milestone following LB Group's acquisition of the site and its associated TiO₂ pigment assets earlier this year. Production has now commenced at the site, with single-stream operation underway and TIOXIDE ® and DELTIO ® products beginning to return to the market. The achievement represents an important step towards the new owners restoring the facility's full manufacturing capability and enhancing long-term security of supply of TiO 2 pigments for customers worldwide. The restart follows four months of careful commissioning, testing and maintenance work with Tioxide's engineering, operations and technical teams working closely together to safely prepare the facility for commercial production. A phased ramp-up is now underway, with a clear roadmap to increase production capability and achieve full operational capacity by early 2027. Karen Askwith, Managing Director at Tioxide, said: "Today is a landmark moment for Tioxide and a proud achievement for everyone involved in bringing the Greatham facility back into operation after it was idled in Q4 2025. "Drawing on more than 50 years of manufacturing heritage, the site at Greatham has a proud history of producing high-quality TiO₂ pigments. This is an important step forward for our new business - but also for the local economy on Teesside, for the UK chemical sector and the wider TiO₂ industry. The successful commencement showcases the skill, dedication and expertise of our employees, whose commitment has been instrumental in safely commissioning the site and establishing production, and I'd like to thank everyone on our team for their outstanding efforts. "I'd also like to acknowledge our suppliers for their support and our customers for their confidence throughout this process. With production now underway, our focus turns to delivering our ramp-up programme, stepping the site up to full manufacturing operations - safely and successfully - and ensuring our customers have access to a reliable and sustainable source of TiO₂ pigments for many years to come." Tioxide's Greatham facility has a total nameplate capacity of 150,000 tonnes of TiO₂ pigment per annum, with production supported by a team of scientists at the company's new research and development centre in Wynyard and commercial and business support teams based at its headquarters in Stockton-on-Tees. Under its TIOXIDE ® and DELTIO ® brands, Tioxide produces a range of premium-performance TiO₂ pigments for use in coatings, plastics and inks applications. Customers interested in learning more about Tioxide's products and capabilities, or discussing future supply requirements, are encouraged to contact Tioxide's commercial team or visit www.tioxide.com (ends) About Tioxide Tioxide manufactures premium-performance titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) pigments, marketed under the TIOXIDE ® and DELTIO ® brands, and designed for use in all major applications. Headquartered in Stockton-on-Tees in the UK, the company draws on over 50 years of manufacturing heritage supported by advanced research and development capabilities, and a global supply network. Partnering with customers worldwide, Tioxide provides consistently reliable TiO 2 pigments, strong technical customer support, and continuous product innovation. Tioxide is a wholly owned subsidiary of LB Group, the world's leading TiO 2 pigment and titanium sponge manufacturer. Please visit www.tioxide.com for more information about Tioxide and the company's TiO 2 pigments. Social Media LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/tioxide Notes to Editors The Greatham facility was the UK's first commercial chloride-process TiO₂ pigment plant, commencing production in October 1971. It later pioneered the proprietary Integrated Chlorination and Oxidation (ICON) technology, which became central to the manufacture of its high-performance TiO₂ pigments. The site was originally owned by British Titan and, in November 1990, commissioned ICON while operating as Tioxide, a subsidiary of ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries). Under Huntsman's ownership, the facility underwent major expansions in 2002 and 2008, before the business was divested to become Venator. On 27 April 2026, LB Group acquired the Greatham facility and associated TiO₂ pigment assets from Venator Materials UK Ltd, establishing the new Tioxide business and marking the beginning of a new chapter in the site's long industrial history.
"I Couldn't Imagine Doing Anything Else": Southampton Mum Takes the Lead at Baby Sensory Southampton Central
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 05:10 EDT
Nine years ago, Kylie Humpleby took her baby daughter along to a Baby Sensory class, never imagining it would end up shaping her whole career. This September she'll be welcoming a new intake of Southampton families - this time as the owner of Baby Sensory Southampton Central , running the same programme that once meant so much to her own family. Kylie first came across Baby Sensory in 2015, going along with her daughter, then returned two years later with her son. What started out as simply something to do together turned into the highlight of her week. "I honestly can't picture myself doing anything else now," said Kylie. "As a parent, Baby Sensory was a lifeline during those early days. It gave me confidence, helped me understand more about my baby's development and gave me a special time each week to focus just on us. "I loved the fact that every activity had a purpose behind it. It wasn't just about keeping babies entertained; it was about understanding how they learn, interact and develop. Now, as a practitioner, seeing the amount of research and planning that goes into each session makes me appreciate it even more." Kylie spent 12 years in banking before all this, moving through various customer service, management and data roles. But after becoming a Baby Sensory class assistant in 2018, and training up as a class leader in 2022, she found she'd landed on something that used her skills in work she loved doing. So, when the chance came up to take over Baby Sensory Southampton Central in 2024, it wasn't a hard decision. She's since built up a strong following of parents and babies around Sholing and Woolston and is now branching out further with new Friday classes starting in Nursling, SO16, from 11th September. The new sessions should make things easier for families on the west side of Southampton and give parents another day option to work around jobs and other commitments. Baby Sensory runs classes for babies from birth to 13 months, built around music, movement, lights, textures and sensory play to support early learning. Parents don't just watch the activities - they're also shown the thinking behind them, and how something as simple as play helps their baby grow. For Kylie, though, it's the community that's made it worthwhile. "Seeing parents and babies come together every week is what makes this so special. I know first-hand how valuable that support network can be when you have a young baby. I can't wait to welcome even more families and help them create their own Baby Sensory memories." For more information, please visit www.babysensory.com/southamptoncentral .
Christmas Stock Ordering Already Underway But Equipment Readiness Is Often an Afterthought
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 04:58 EDT
While Christmas may feel a long way off, many retailers and manufacturers are already placing stock orders for the festive period, with lead times through August and September increasingly dictating when goods need to be ready. Pallet Trucks UK says this early ordering cycle brings a quieter, less visible ramp-up in warehouse activity - well before the more obvious peak trading rush later in the year. According to the company, this early stage is often when handling equipment first starts to feel the strain, but it's rarely given the same attention as the busier weeks around Black Friday and Christmas itself. Stock is arriving, being checked in, and moved into storage in growing volumes - all while day-to-day operations carry on as normal. Businesses that assume their pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables will simply cope with this extra load, without checking, can find themselves dealing with breakdowns and delays just as things are starting to build. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "There's a real gap between when businesses start preparing for Christmas and when most people think 'peak season' actually begins. Orders are already going out now, stock is already starting to arrive, and that means warehouses are already working harder than they were a month ago, even if it doesn't look that way from the outside. "The mistake we see most often is treating this early ramp-up as business as usual, right up until equipment problems appear later on. Wheels wear, hydraulics need checking, batteries need proper care, and none of that gets easier when you're relying on the same kit for months of increased use. "Our advice is simple: don't wait until October or November to think about whether your handling equipment is ready. If it's carrying more stock now than it was in July, that's worth acting on straight away, not once things are already at their busiest. "It's a much easier conversation to have in August, when there's still time to service, replace or add to a fleet, than it is in December, when a breakdown can mean missed deliveries at the worst possible moment." For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC Named Among the 2026 Best Places to Work by Columbus Business First
Mon, Aug 17, 2026 15:30 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC has been named one of Central Ohio's 2026 Best Places to Work by Columbus Business First and earned the number two spot on the list. "As our presence in Central Ohio continues to grow, we are especially pleased to be recognized for the first time as one of the region's Best Places to Work," said Christopher L. Slaughter , CEO of Steptoe & Johnson. Columbus Office Managing Member Marilyn T. McClure-Demers said, "This recognition reflects our continued focus on building strong relationships in the Columbus market and in Ohio, supporting the people who make our growth possible. We are proud of the collaborative culture our team has created and grateful to be part of such a dynamic business community." The Best Places to Work program honors companies based on anonymous employee reviews from surveys facilitated by Quantum Workplace. The program, now in its 22nd year, is open to companies and organizations with a Central Ohio office and at least 10 full-time employees. Steptoe & Johnson was honored in the Small Companies category, which includes businesses with 25 to 49 local employees. The 2026 honorees were celebrated, and their final rankings were revealed, during a reception hosted by Columbus Business First on Thursday, August 13, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Africa Event Center.
Casino Del Sol's Kristopher Ritzmann Named to Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's 2026 40 Under 40 Class
Mon, Aug 17, 2026 13:00 EDT
Casino Del Sol's Kristopher Ritzmann Named to Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's 2026 40 Under 40 Class TUCSON, AZ - August 11, 2026 - Casino Del Sol proudly announces that Kristopher Ritzmann , Chief Financial Officer, has been selected as one of the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's 2026 40 Under 40 honorees , one of the region's premier recognitions celebrating emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact through innovation, leadership, professional excellence, and community involvement. Presented by Snell & Wilmer, the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber's 40 Under 40 Awards recognizes forty outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who are helping shape the future of Southern Arizona. Honorees will be recognized during the annual awards breakfast on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 , at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. "Kristopher represents the next generation of leadership in Arizona's gaming and hospitality industry," said Amanda Lomayesva, Casino Del Sol Interim CEO. "His strategic mindset, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to operational excellence have made a significant impact on our organization. This recognition is well deserved, and we're proud to celebrate this milestone with him." Ritzmann has built a reputation as an innovative gaming executive with expertise in operational strategy, financial planning, business analytics, and revenue optimization. Throughout his career, he has helped organizations improve operational performance through data-driven decision making, strategic planning, and cross-functional leadership. At Casino Del Sol, Ritzmann plays a key role in advancing strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, support long-term business growth, and elevate the guest experience across the enterprise. Prior to joining Casino Del Sol, Ritzmann held leadership positions within the tribal gaming industry, developing expertise across gaming operations, finance, marketing strategy, and organizational planning. His experience has positioned him as one of the industry's rising executives dedicated to driving sustainable growth while fostering exceptional guest experiences. The Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce describes its 40 Under 40 Awards as one of the region's most prestigious leadership recognition programs, honoring professionals who are creating opportunities for others and helping move Southern Arizona forward through their leadership and service.
Niższe oprocentowanie łagodzi wzrost cen mieszkań. Modelowa rata kredytu niższa o około 9% r/r
Mon, Aug 17, 2026 04:55 EDT
Najnowsza analiza eXp Poland pokazuje, że spadek oprocentowania kredytów hipotecznych wyraźnie poprawił warunki finansowania zakupu nieruchomości w Polsce. Mimo dalszego wzrostu cen mieszkań miesięczny koszt obsługi kredytu w modelowym scenariuszu jest dziś niższy niż rok wcześniej. Według Głównego Urzędu Statystycznego ceny lokali mieszkalnych w Polsce w I kwartale 2026 roku były o 6,0% wyższe niż w analogicznym okresie 2025 roku . Na rynku pierwotnym wzrost wyniósł 6,8%, a na rynku wtórnym 5,2%. Jednocześnie wyraźnie zmniejszył się koszt finansowania. Według danych Narodowego Banku Polskiego średnie oprocentowanie nowo udzielonych kredytów mieszkaniowych wyniosło w marcu 2026 roku 5,88% , podczas gdy w marcu 2025 roku było to 7,57% . Oznacza to spadek o 1,69 punktu procentowego w ciągu roku. Co oznacza to dla kupującego? Aby zobrazować wpływ obu zmian na miesięczny koszt zakupu mieszkania, eXp Poland przeprowadziło modelową kalkulację. Przyjmując nieruchomość wartą 600 000 zł w I kwartale 2025 roku , wzrost cen o 6% oznaczałby wartość około 636 000 zł rok później . Przy 20-procentowym wkładzie własnym: w 2025 roku kwota kredytu wynosiłaby 480 000 zł , w 2026 roku kwota kredytu wynosiłaby 508 800 zł . Zakładając 25-letni okres kredytowania, raty równe oraz średnie oprocentowanie nowych kredytów mieszkaniowych odpowiednio dla marca 2025 i marca 2026: szacunkowa rata w 2025 roku wynosiłaby około 3 569 zł miesięcznie , szacunkowa rata w 2026 roku wynosiłaby około 3 241 zł miesięcznie . Oznacza to spadek miesięcznej raty o około 328 zł, czyli 9,2% , mimo że cena kupowanej nieruchomości wzrosła w tym czasie o 6%. W skali roku różnica wynosi około 3 937 zł . Olga Marciniak, Country Leader eXp Poland, komentuje: „To ciekawy moment na rynku, ponieważ po raz pierwszy od dłuższego czasu widzimy, że spadek kosztu finansowania zaczyna realnie równoważyć wzrost cen nieruchomości. Mieszkania nie stały się tańsze - według GUS ich ceny nadal rosną. Zmienił się natomiast koszt pieniądza. Przy porównywalnym zakupie kupujący może dziś finansować droższą nieruchomość, a jednocześnie płacić niższą miesięczną ratę niż rok wcześniej. To ważna zmiana również z perspektywy sprzedających. Niższy miesięczny koszt kredytu może stopniowo zwiększać liczbę osób, które ponownie zaczynają realnie rozważać zakup lub zmianę mieszkania. Nie oznacza to jednak powrotu do rynku, na którym sprzedaje się wszystko i za każdą cenę. Kupujący są dziś bardzo świadomi, porównują oferty i zwracają uwagę na standard, lokalizację oraz relację ceny do jakości. Dlatego właściwa wycena i profesjonalne przygotowanie nieruchomości do sprzedaży pozostają kluczowe." Metodologia i źródła Analiza eXp Poland wykorzystuje oficjalne dane Głównego Urzędu Statystycznego dotyczące zmian cen lokali mieszkalnych oraz dane Narodowego Banku Polskiego dotyczące średniego oprocentowania nowo udzielonych kredytów mieszkaniowych. W kalkulacji przyjęto 20-procentowy wkład własny, 25-letni okres kredytowania i raty równe . Kwota 600 000 zł jest wartością modelową przyjętą wyłącznie do przeprowadzenia kalkulacji i nie stanowi deklarowanej średniej ceny mieszkania w Polsce. Wyliczenia mają charakter ilustracyjny i nie stanowią oferty ani rekomendacji kredytowej.
Keeping the 2030 Petrol and Diesel Ban Will Cripple the UK Economy for Zero Gain
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 15:26 EDT
FairFuelUK: Keeping the 2030 Petrol and Diesel Ban Will Cripple the UK Economy with Zero Gain The Department for Transport has reaffirmed that the UK's 2030 phase-out of pure-petrol and diesel cars remains firmly in place, as does the 2035 ban on hybrids. Unlike the European Union, which has abandoned its outright ban on combustion-engined vehicles, Britain is pressing ahead with these rigid deadlines. Why? FairFuelUK has repeatedly shown that this virtue-signalling 2030 ban on diesel and petrol will cost at least five times the alleged environmental benefits. So what is the point of bankrupting the British economy? https://fairfueluk.com/2030-Ban.html The original hard 2035 ban has been significantly softened in the EU Commission's 2025 proposal. Under the current draft, there is no absolute end date for new diesel or petrol cars in the EU. The EU has moved from a hard 2035 zero-emission requirement to a more flexible 90% target, allowing some combustion-engined vehicles to continue indefinitely. Why hasn't the UK followed suit? Howard Cox, Founder of FairFuelUK, said: "Keeping the 2030 ban will cripple the UK economy and will not accelerate the uptake of expensive EVs. The Government is forcing them onto us without consultation and is relying on subsidies and tax breaks to bribe us all into submission. And the national grid simply cannot cope with the extra load required to keep the nation fully charged." "The rest of Europe has sensibly put back its ban on new fossil-fuel car sales. Wanting to lead the way with an ill-informed, clueless approach that wrecks the UK economy for pure ideology makes no sense whatsoever." "British motorists, manufacturers and jobs are being sacrificed on the altar of a target that independent analysis proves delivers vanishingly small climate returns at enormous economic cost. Drivers deserve better than this. Scrap the 2030 ban now - before the damage becomes irreversible. The war on the motorist remains at the heart of Labour's ignorance of how to make the economy grow." FairFuelUK continues to urge the Government to follow the evidence, protect the 37 million UK motorists who keep the country moving, and abandon this self-destructive policy. www.fairfueluk.com FairFuelUK is the independent grassroots campaign representing Britain's drivers and hauliers. Founded by Howard Cox, it has successfully fought for successive freezes in fuel duty and campaigns for fairer transport taxation, realistic emissions policy and the protection of personal mobility. We are a public affairs team with no shareholders to satisfy, just an award-winning campaign representing the real concerns of hard-working motorists, families, small businesses, commercial drivers and hauliers across the UK. Decades of fiscal exploitation by successive Governments with little in return warrant the need for FairFuelUK. FairFuelUK was founded by and is managed by the Campaign's CEO, Howard Cox. Funding comes from regular donations from supporters. Previous backers have included Logistics UK, the RHA, the RAC, Association of Pallet Networks, UKLPG and others Since 2010, FairFuelUK has saved drivers over £200bn in planned tax hikes in duty and VAT through constructive and objective campaigning. Now the immediate pressure group's focus is on stopping those unnecessary tax hikes based on a good-intentioned but flawed 'green' agenda. These include new taxes and bans on drivers entering our major cities, and potentially adding more costs on petrol and diesel drivers by the Treasury. These are new taxes that will not improve air quality, but simply hit consumers and the economy. There are ways to improve air quality without hitting consumers' pockets. Current FairFuelUK Campaign Issues include: Fuel duty, VAT on duty - PumpWatch and fuel price transparency - Effective ways to lower emissions but not through tax hikes - Stop the perennial demonisation of van drivers, hauliers and motorists - Quash ULEZ, LTNs, 15 minute areas - Scrap 2030 Ban on the sales of new diesel and petrol cars - More investment in UK roads similar to the level of HS2 spend - Establish a long term Government strategic roads transport plan - Halt unnecessary cash generating congestion zones and ULEZ expansion - VED and its future - Influence fairer future road user taxation plans and road funding with fuel duty revenue predicted to decline - Help role out new vehicle technology in a way that does not hit drivers in the pocket - Scrap hospital parking charges - Other related motoring costs and driving issues
International Board Visits Multimillion-pound Roof Tile Factory
Fri, Aug 14, 2026 11:08 EDT
Senior leaders from Crown Roof Tiles Group in the USA and Mexico have visited Russell Roof Tiles' Burton on Trent site to see the completion of its new multimillion-pound manufacturing facility. The company invested more than £20+ million in transforming its operations, combining pioneering manufacturing technology with the development of an innovative roof tile solution. The international Board from Crown (Russell Roof Tiles' parent company) visited the Nicolson Way site to review the landmark investment and see the advanced production line created to manufacture its award-winning Bute3® , Russell Roof Tiles ' innovative triple tile, as well as other products. The company dedicated five years to research and product development before launching Bute3®, the first concrete roof tile of its kind to be manufactured at scale in the UK. The purpose-built factory represents one of the most significant investments in the company's history and strengthens its long-term manufacturing capabilities. The firm employs around 160 staff at three sites in Burton on Trent and Lochmaben. During the visit, Board members toured the completed Staffordshire facility, met employees involved in the project and saw how the new production technology will support the manufacture of Bute3® at scale. Bute3® combines the traditional appearance of a plain tile roof with the speed and technical benefits of a modern interlocking tile system. Its triple-tile format allows roofing contractors to cover a greater area with each tile, helping to reduce installation times by up to 33 per cent. The new facility incorporates the latest advanced manufacturing and curing technology to improve product quality, consistency, strength and production efficiency. It will also provide Russell Roof Tiles with additional capacity as demand for the new roofing system grows. The firm recently celebrated the sales of its one millionth Bute3® tile, which has rapidly become the company's fastest-growing tile since launch. It is already used or specified on 80+ developments across the UK and has successfully moved from trial projects to becoming a standard specification on several major developments for leading housebuilders. Andrew Hayward , Managing Director at Russell Roof Tiles, said: "Welcoming the Board (and shareholders) from Crown in the USA and Mexico was an important moment for everyone involved in this project. "The completion of the new line and factory is the result of several years of planning, product development and hard work across the business. It demonstrates the confidence our international Board has in Russell Roof Tiles, our people and the long-term potential of UK manufacturing. "This investment gives us the capability to manufacture Bute3® at scale and provide housebuilders, roofing contractors and developers with a product that can deliver genuine improvements in installation speed and efficiency." Juan Prestamo, CEO of Russell Roof Tiles and shareholder of Crown Roof Tiles Group, said: "It was fantastic to visit Burton on Trent and see the completed factory and production line firsthand. "The new facility is an impressive investment in manufacturing technology, product innovation and the future of Russell Roof Tiles . Bute3® has been developed in response to clear challenges within the roofing and housebuilding sectors, and this factory provides a strong platform for its future growth. We are extremely proud of what the team in Burton has achieved." Having further expanded since its production launch, Bute3® is now available in seven colours and has already received industry recognition, including being named Roofing Solution of the Year at the 2026 Showhome Readers' Awards. Russell Roof Tiles manufactures a comprehensive range of concrete roofing products and accessories for the UK housebuilding sector. The company is renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and investment in award-winning solutions. Combining market-leading product design with cutting-edge manufacturing technology, Russell Roof Tiles has redefined what is possible in tile production, delivering improvements in productivity and sustainability. As a leading independent UK manufacturer of concrete roof tiles, fittings and uPVC roofing accessories, Russell Roof Tiles provides complete pitched roofing solutions designed for modern construction demands.