Q1 2025 news Featuring:
AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. Welcome to the Q1 2025 edition of EU Business News, providing you with all the latest news, features, and informative pieces from across Europe. As Europe continues to contribute to industries and sectors around the world, influencing others as these business developments flourish year upon year. We’re here to showcase the excellence spanning such a diverse region, and this issue includes news from across the vibrant countries making up Europe – including success stories within the security and transport industries. We’re proud to present you with our Q1 issue as Europe’s corporate landscape continues to evolve. We wish you a wonderful 2025 ahead and we look forward to welcoming you back again in Q2 of 2025 for more insightful updates from the world of business across Europe. Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.eubusinessnews.com Q1 2025
4. GetYourLawyer AG sold to private investors - Switzerland's leading legal tech platform has been acquired by Bastian Manintveld and François Chabat 5. Agence France Press partners with Kairntech to improve editorial efficiency 6. B.D.S. 69: Air Cargo Transport Company of the Year 2024 & Excellence Award in Shipment Management 2024 8. Claireity Consulting: Most Visionary Managed Security Services Provider 2024 – Belgium 9. 5 Keys to Success, 5 Years from Brexit: Advice on Exporting from the UK’s Export Leader of The Year 10. How Hidden Wi-Fi Killers Are Costing UK Businesses Time and Money 11. No More Cheap Labour – It’s Time to Pack Smarter Contents
NEWS GetYourLawyer AG sold to private investors - Switzerland's leading legal tech platform has been acquired by Bastian Manintveld and François Chabat witzerland's leading legal tech platform has been acquired by Bastian Manintveld and François Chabat. • GetYourLawyer was founded in 2017 by Dominic Rogger, Muriel Voelke and Matthias Isler with the vision of becoming the leading Swiss platform to connect clients and with experienced legal professionals. The company was part of Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz between 2019-2023 when it was bought back by the founders. • Manintveld brings extensive experience in digital innovation and business growth, while Chabat, with a PhD in machine learning, plans to leverage AI to drive innovation and streamline legal processes. • The new owners aim to broaden the platform's offerings, expand to European and global markets, and integrate cutting-edge technologies to enhance user experience and accessibility. GetYourLawyer AG, Switzerland's pioneering legal tech platform, has been acquired by tech entrepreneurs Bastian Manintveld and François Chabat. This strategic move marks a new chapter in the company's journey to revolutionize legal and other professional services in Switzerland and beyond. Bastian Manintveld, an accomplished entrepreneur with a track record in digital innovation and business growth, brings a wealth of experience to GetYourLawyer. François Chabat, who holds a PhD in machine learning from Imperial College London has a deep understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications in technology will be invaluable in driving innovation within the platform. GetYourLawyer AG, Switzerland's pioneering legal tech platform, has been acquired by tech entrepreneurs Bastian Manintveld and François Chabat. This strategic move marks a new chapter in the company's journey to revolutionize legal and other professional services in Switzerland and beyond. S "We are incredibly excited about the potential of GetYourLawyer," said Manintveld. "The original founders were pioneers in digitizing legal services for the Swiss marketplace. They have built an impressive platform. The substantial investment in both the technology and the brand has established GetYourLawyer as a trusted name in the Swiss legal tech landscape. We see tremendous opportunities for growth, both in Switzerland and internationally." The new owners envision a multi-faceted expansion strategy that includes broadening the platform's service offerings, exploring new markets, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance the user experience. The initial focus will be on scaling the platform's success in Switzerland to other European countries and beyond. "GetYourLawyer has immense potential to transform how legal services are accessed and delivered, not just in Switzerland but across Europe," Chabat added. "We're eager to leverage cutting-edge AI technologies to streamline legal processes and expand into new verticals and geographical areas." The original founders, who have moved on to new ventures, expressed their support for the acquisition and the new vision: Dominic Rogger, former Chairman of the Board, stated, "We're confident that Bastian and François will take GetYourLawyer to new heights. Their combined expertise in digital innovation and AI aligns perfectly with our original mission of simplifying access to legal services, and their plans for expansion are truly exciting." Muriel Völkle commented, "The platform is in capable hands. I'm particularly impressed with their vision for growth and innovation in the legal tech space." Matthias Isler added, "This acquisition is a testament to the hard work our team has put in. The vision for expansion into new areas will undoubtedly benefit both lawyers and clients across Europe." The new owners have assured existing clients and staff that the transition will be smooth, with a focus on continuity and enhancement of services. "Our priority is to build on the trust that GetYourLawyer has established in the Swiss marketplace while expanding our reach," Manintveld emphasized. "We're committed to maintaining the high standards of service while introducing AI-driven innovations that will benefit legal professionals and clients across various sectors and countries." This acquisition comes at a time when the global legal tech sector is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach US$ 69.7 Billion by 2032. With their combined expertise in digital entrepreneurship, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, Manintveld and Chabat are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and establish GetYourLawyer as a leader in the digital transformation of legal services across Europe.
NEWS Agence France Press partners with Kairntech to improve editorial efficiency AFP boosts editorial efficiency with Kairntech AI, enhancing multilingual news processing and search capabilities through innovative language technology. Agence France Press partners with Kairntech to improve editorial efficiency AFP empowers its editorial staff with Kairntech AI language technology to assist journalists in enriching collective intelligence by using cutting-edge AI models & semantic footprints Kairntech, specialized in natural language solutions, and Agence France-Presse (AFP), among the world's top three international news agencies, announced their technical partnership in the field of AI & semantic enrichment. AFP deploys Kairntech within its editorial console worldwide. AFP covers world news, putting thousands of news items online on a daily basis in English, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese and Arabic. To increase the productivity and consistency of such large volumes of content processed, AFP uses an innovative editorial application for journalists. The editorial application integrates the Kairntech technology and makes it available to journalists worldwide in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic. The flagship Kairntech AI language solution supports journalists on the fly to approve the following elements before submitting a new article: • The IPTC Media Topics classification (IPTC is the global standard for media metadata, containing up to seven layers of detail) leveraging Kairntech's patent pending semantic footprint fingerprint technology that allows a single model to operate in multiple languages. • The extraction of entities such as persons, locations and organizations leveraging custom built AI models as well as internal and Wikidata knowledge bases. This semi-automated process improves the overall editorial system productivity by making news items immediately available with relevant contextual information and thereby improving the quality of search. In addition, editors-in-chief benefit from human-in-the-loop features to continuously improve the quality of the language models used: editor feedback is automatically taken into consideration and used to enrich in real time AFP knowledge base and retrain the language models. "Kairntech is delighted to accompany AFP on this project, for which we will deploy the latest version of Kairntech platform and put our semantic fingerprints technology into production," says Vincent Nibart, COO, Kairntech. "At AFP, we are constantly striving to improve our editorial processes. Thanks to Kairntech named entities recognition and categorization technologies, we can offer our journalists, but also our customers, more powerful and relevant search and navigation tools" says Louis-Cyrille Trebuchet, Chief Technology and Information Officer, AFP. "AI and Language technologies in particular are high on our agenda for continued innovation in this field, but in a trusted and well-governed manner." Kairntech is an advanced AI language solution designed for extracting information, classifying and summarizing documents and question answering. Kairntech Studio is used to build complex natural language pipelines combining different components all the way from document conversion to output formatting. These pipelines are then integrated through a REST API within existing business applications, powered by a scalable Kairntech API Server.
EU Business News- Q1 2025 With the rise of globalisation and the increasingly fast-paced demand for goods, effective and efficient logistics operations are vital in ensuring that businesses can meet their customers’ expectations by delivering products on time and at a lower cost. The overall efficacy of the industry’s operations is crucial to the running of many other industries around the world, as it has a direct impact on customer satisfaction, product pricing, and general business efficiency. The industry has evolved over time, and is currently facing an era of transformation, sparked by the advent of cutting-edge technologies and evolving consumer demands. The introduction of innovations such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things are not only enabling logistics companies to enhance and expand their operations, but also entirely reshaping the global supply chain landscape. Across the entire industry, 2024 has been a year of endurance. From the shippers and drivers to the stockists and innovators, every member of the logistics industry faced the adversity for which 2024 has become renowned. Facing hostile weather conditions, geopolitical instability, regulatory changes, rising transport costs, and a persistent shortage of drivers, many professionals were uncertain about the future. The biggest lesson that many learned was the necessity of balancing adaptability with strategic foresight, as accurate predicting is fast becoming a cornerstone of maintaining a successful supply chain. Businesses must work to adapt to the logistics trends currently emerging in the market, as these trends will be the key to creating more Air Cargo Transport Company of the Year 2024 & Excellence Award in Shipment Management 2024 The logistics industry is one of the largest in the world, and for good reason. A backbone of internal trade, the sector is responsible for keeping the world moving, ensuring that products are delivered efficiently and effectively from one place to another. Without this crucial sector, modern economics and daily life would certainly reach a standstill. Below, we take a look at B.D.S. 69, a company currently leading the industry with its stellar solutions and outstanding operations, recognised for its excellence in the Italian Business Awards 2024. AIS-Oct24008 flexible, customer-focused solutions, remaining competitive in a market that is rapidly evolving towards a smarter and more resilient future. One company that has deftly navigated the turbulent landscape, emerging triumphant from 2024, is B.D.S. 69. A leading independent shipping, transport, and airport assistance company, B.D.S. 69 was founded by professionals and managers with more than three decades of experience leading the logistics sector. The team recognised the growing need for tailored solutions that meet the rising demand for greater urgency and reliability across the sector, particularly for non-standard shipments delivered by air or road. Founded in 1989, B.D.S. 69 has offices in the prime locations of Fiumicino Airport in Rome and Malpensa Airport in Milan. Being situated in both Rome and Milan enables the company to connect Italy with Europe and the rest of the world. Since its inception more than 30 years ago, B.D.S. 69 has operated every day of the week, every week of the year, delivering an array of goods to any area of Italy and beyond. B.D.S. 69 offers its clients an array of superior solutions that are tailor-made to meet the needs of each client and the materials to be transported. Providing air, road, and special transport, B.D.S 69 have the expertise to find the most suitable vehicle for every shipment, ensuring the shortest possible transit time for each job it undertakes. The company’s road transport service is ideal for shipments of all sizes, shipping throughout Italy, the islands, and across Europe. All air, road, and special transport services include the option to add an on-board courier, after-hours operations upon request, the loading and unloading of goods, palletised and shrink-wrapped packaging, specific labelling for air shipments and dangerous goods, urgent shipping services for sensitive and priority shipments, express couriers and van services with dedicated and tracked shipments, the repatriation of remains, and the storage of goods in B.D.S 69’s own warehouse, including temperaturecontrolled products and dangerous goods. What’s more, B.D.S. 69 also delivers specialised aeronautical services, providing exceptional transport throughout Italy and Europe. The company handles shipments of aeronautical and automative spare parts, shipments with AOG and critical priority, onboard couriers to and from anywhere in the world, permanent access authorisation to sterile areas in the Malpensa and Fiumicino airports, packaging dangerous goods, and constantly monitoring services throughout every phase, from acceptance to departure, transit, landing, and final delivery. For those in a hurry, B.D.S. 69 has an express service, and handles an array of shipping components to ensure a swift and streamlined delivery. The company oversees both national and international transports, shipment management, the handling, labelling, packaging, and storing of dangerous goods, the issuance of Dangerous Goods Declarations on behalf of the shipper, van shipment services with dedicated, tracked shipments, and of course, urgent and speedy shipping services for sensitive and priority shipments. As a specialist logistics company, B.D.S. 69 additionally provides services for critical bio-pharmaceutical shipments, transporting an array of sensitive products
7. Air Cargo Transport Company of the Year 2024 & Excellence Award in Shipment Management 2024 including human and animal tissues, bodily fluids, cells and cell cultures, DNA and RNA, blood, microorganisms, genetically modified organisms, antibodies, proteins, experimental drugs, and final pharmaceutical products. All bio-pharmaceutical transport services provided include urgent shipping, the handling of toxic and infectious substances ADR classes 6.1 and 6.2, and specific labelling and packaging for air shipments and dangerous goods, with B.D.S. 69 issuing Dangerous Goods Declarations on behalf of the shipper. Striving to be the very best in its field, B.D.S. 69 aims to provide additional assurances to its clientele about the reliability and quality of its services. The company has completed numerous certifications, viewing the voluntary education as a complementary path to mandatory requirements. Driven by its passion for the aviation industry, B.D.S. 69 applies the most rigorous standards set by the main reference markets. The company is certified as Registered ThirdParty Road Haulers, an ENAC Regulation Agent at Fiumicino Airport, a Provider of Ground Handling Airport Services, Supplier of Airport Supplies, certified in ADR Transport and DGR, educated in HACCP procedures, and is ISO 9001:2015 – ISO 14001:2015 certified. B.D.S. 69 is dedicated to providing top-tier client services, as evidenced by its extensive array of qualifications, certifications, and educational endeavours. To the company, clients are more than just a number, and shipments are more than a mere barcode. Clients mean everything to B.D.S. 69, and the company strives to fully understand their need and priorities at every stage of the shipment process, as this knowledge is essential in building the most efficient and effective solution for each case. Furthermore, the company also prioritises open communication throughout its services, as clarity and understanding are key to success. When clients call the offices, they will always speak to the same operator who handled their initial enquiry, and who will personally manage their shipment from beginning to end. This ensures that the process is streamlined and clear, without being passed through multiple hands and risking miscommunication between handlers. By relying on a client-centric, agile structure such as B.D.S. 69, clients can ensure that their shipments are treated with care, respect, and reverence. The company understands that speed and dependability can create or negate the reputation of a client’s business and, for this reason, strives to provide the very best services that not only reflect on B.D.S. 69, but also on its clientele. For more than three decades, B.D.S. 69 has been led by its core values of integrity, innovation, quality, proximity, transparency, and flexibility. The company has been dedicated to ensuring total customer satisfaction, and continually enhances and streamlines its operations to ensure this. Renowned around the world for the efficacy of its services, B.D.S. 69 has made significant contributions towards advancing the logistics industry, recognised on a global scale for the honest and high quality services it provides. It is for this very reason that B.D.S. 69 has received the Excellence Award in Shipment Management 2024, in addition to being rightfully named the Air Cargo Transport Company of the Year 2024. Company: B.D.S. 69 Web Address: https://www.bds69.com/
EU Business News- Q1 2025 Most Visionary Managed Security Services Provider 2024 – Belgium The cybersecurity industry is constantly evolving, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. The global market is projected to continue growing at an accelerating rate and as it does, so does the demand for more and more innovative solutions to the increasing complexities of cyberspace. Claireity Consulting is a company nimbly navigating the cybersecurity landscape, positioning itself as a specialist provider of comprehensive cybersecurity services. Following Claireity Consulting’s recent win in the Benelux Enterprise Awards 2024, we take a closer look at the company’s outstanding offerings. Founded in 2019, Claireity Consulting is dedicated to reimagining the possibilities of cybersecurity, blending the art of security with the precision of technology to effectively safeguard its client’s digital journey. Located in Brussels, Belgium, the company was born from a clear vision of transformative cybersecurity, standing as pioneers in a landscape where threats are viewed merely as opportunities just waiting to be neutralised. Claireity Consulting takes a unique approach that goes beyond protection, acting as architects of a secure digital future that enables businesses to thrive in the face of digital challenges. The company views the digital landscape as a realm of infinite potential, a place where risks are opportunities in disguise. Masterfully combining the art of security with the science of technology, Claireity Consulting crafts expert solutions that are as robust as they are innovative. Every strategy and tool produced by this exceptional company have been meticulously chosen to ensure the long-term success of its clients, with digital assets that are not only protected but also leveraged for sustained growth. A frontrunner in its industry, Claireity Consulting is affiliated with both the ISOC and the Global Encryption Coalition. The ISOC, or Internet Society, is an international organisation that advocates for an open, globally connected, and secure internet. The organisation works on various initiatives to extend internet access, promote internet governance policies, and ensures that the internet remains a critical resource for the world. The Global Encryption Coalition was founded in 2020 by the ISOC, the Centre for Democracy and Technology, and Global Partners Digital. The coalition promotes and defends encryption worldwide, advocating for its necessity in protecting online privacy and security. It works with governments, tech companies, and civil society to resist legislation that would weaken encryption and to raise awareness about the importance of strong encryption technologies. By affiliating with such coalitions and networks, Claireity Consulting enhances the impact of its advocacy, elevates its industry profile, and connects with likeminded organisations, all working together towards a safer digital world. Claireity Consulting’s specialisation in cybersecurity and commitment to data protection perfectly align it well with this mission, maintaining a balance between privacy and security by actively engaging in policy making. Claireity Consulting was founded by Léo Florea, an innovative visionary with vast experience in bringing clarity and simplicity to the complex world of cybersecurity and data compliance. Léo’s journey to leadership has been driven by a passion for innovation, a commitment to ethical leadership, and a firm belief in the power of transparent communication. Léo is deeply involved in every aspect of Claireity Consulting’s operations, from guiding the company’s strategic vision to getting directly involved with the team. He takes a leadership style rooted in empowerment, believing strongly in providing his team with the autonomy they need to innovate whilst also ensuring they remain aligned with the company’s core values and objectives. Striving to challenge the status quo daily, Claireity Consulting’s team is dedicated to staying in touch with emerging market trends whilst maintaining creative independence. As its leader, Léo ensures that the entire team is consistent in delivering innovation, quality, and sustainability, not only meeting but exceeding expectations every time. At its core, Claireity Consulting is a pioneering company dedicated to delivering top-tier solutions that enable its clients’ businesses to thrive within a safe and prosperous digital landscape. Since its inception, the company has remained an industry innovator, successfully leading the sector through its continual evolution, earning the title of Most Visionary Managed Security Services Provider 2024 – Belgium. Contact: Leo Florea Company: Claireity Consulting Web Address: https://www.linkedin.com/company/claireity-consulting/ AIS-Aug24002
Jul22493 9. By Barry Leahey, MBE, President of Playdale Playgrounds Export Leader of The Year Award Winner Reveals His Journey to International Business Success in 2025’s First Interview January 31st 2025 marked Brexit’s official 5th anniversary, and – for some businesses – international trade remains a point of great frustration. Brexit, for many British enterprises, has been more shock and less awe. A recent LSE study revealed that the UK lost £27bn in trade during Brexit’s first two years, with the value of British goods exports falling by 6.4% and total goods imports by 3.1%. Some, however, managed to forge a path through the initial confusion as the UK began to acclimatise to the new trade opportunities with the rest of the world. One of these business trailblazers was Barry Leahey MBE, the President of Playdale Playgrounds, which specialises in educational play. A Made in Britain manufacturer that produces a range of traditional and inclusive playground equipment, Playdale’s international trade success under Leahey landed him the award of Export Leader of The Year 2024, as well as a Northern Leadership award. The UK government’s economic focus for the current term has been consistently stated as growth – prioritising investment and stable trading with the rest of the world. As a shining example of growth and stability trading overseas, we interviewed Leahey for his advice on how other UK businesses can master the art of post-Brexit trade. Key #1: Leverage tariff reductions to your advantage “Thanks to the free trade agreements (FTA) signed after Brexit, the UK’s trade potential is most definitely good – if not greater – than it was immediately after leaving the EU,” says Leahey. “However, a huge part of this potential lies within Europe, and it will take time to maximise the new FTAs and find new ways to work with the EU successfully. “I believe perceptions are starting to change,” says Leahey. “We are finally coming out of that transitional stage and instead we are now entering the stage where people are beginning to forget what the ‘norm’ used to be, and instead businesses are acclimatising to the ‘new norm’.” Key #2: Build relationships with trade partners outside Europe “Generally speaking, we are very analytical in our decision-making at Playdale,” says Leahey. “Most recently, I believe our decision to find a partner in Japan will be very lucrative for us in time, helping us to secure further trade outside of Europe. “I’m particularly proud of the fact that the Cabinet Office now use us as a case study on how to be ready for Brexit. Our strategy for finding international trade partners has been a key part of why we’re being asked to help other businesses through post-Brexit trade – and it is a great feeling!” Key #3: Use all resources available to stay informed “The most significant hurdle for SMEs is having the bandwidth and resources to understand exactly what the new logistical changes and laws mean for their industry,” Leahey tells us. “At Playdale, we have taken the time to learn how to use the tools and resources available to UK businesses to simplify the transition. “The logistics are a challenge for SMEs – all the associated paperwork is the biggest change for the sector,” Leahey explains. “The way we have to trade with Europe is now different, however, Playdale was already dealing with the rest of the world on this basis so it was easier for us to adjust to these changes. We regularly talk to the Department of Business and Trade team and attend webinars on important subjects, which helps us get to grips with changes fast.” Key #4: Leverage the Made in Britain branding to appeal to international markets “It’s important to have confidence in the fact that Great Britain will always be a fantastic historical brand – especially when boosting your reputation when trading abroad,” Leahey adds. “Both before and after Brexit, it still holds true that being a Made in Britain business tells consumers and partners that your products are tried and tested to the highest standard with a skilled labour force. “This in turn holds the potential to open doors in international trade, but don’t forget that ultimately it is the company’s values and procedures that make things happen.” Key #5: Prepare your brand to compete in the international marketplace “The world is a very competitive place – during the Covid pandemic it may have been tough for trade, but many countries had a progressive mindset during this time and honed their focus on digital marketing and manufacturing automation. The result of these sudden changes have just made the landscape even more competitive,” Leahey reflects. “Diversifying your exports to a wider range of countries and cultures beyond Europe means you have to be prepared to compete on more fronts than ever. Strategy-wise, that means strengthening your brand identity and being ready to adapt to international tastes and markets. “In the future, politicians will continue to open more doors, but it will be up to British business leaders to work hard delivering on their individual business strategies to grow on the world stage. It is possible – here at Playdale we are proof of that – but it all comes down to being analytical in your decision-making, setting out a clear strategy, exploring new opportunities in countries that you believe will be lucrative for your business sector, and after all that, it will come down to how much you want to make it work.” By the end of the government’s first term in office, we will have past the Brexit deal’s 10th anniversary. Only time will tell how British trade will have evolved by then, but one thing is for certain – the pioneers of Britain’s international trade will have to be bold, not complacent. 5 Keys to Success, 5 Years from Brexit: Advice on Exporting from the UK’s Export Leader of The Year
10. EU Business News- Q1 2025 As hybrid working cements its place in the UK’s business landscape, reliable Wi-Fi has become as essential as electricity for staying productive. However, many professionals and businesses are unknowingly battling poor connectivity caused by overlooked factors inside their homes or offices. New insights from Trusted Reviews, a leading authority on consumer technology advice, reveal that common items could be sabotaging your signal—and your productivity. The Hidden Costs of Poor Wi-Fi in Business With an estimated 50% of UK employees working remotely at least part-time (ONS, 2022), uninterrupted connectivity is crucial for effective communication, cloud-based workflows, and virtual collaboration. Yet, poor Wi-Fi is often overlooked as a cause of delays, missed deadlines, and operational inefficiencies. Trusted Reviews highlights how everyday objects in home and office environments may be to blame: • Fish Tanks: Large water features absorb Wi-Fi signals, creating connectivity blackspots. • Mirrors: Reflective surfaces bounce signals in unintended directions, weakening coverage. • Microwaves: Kitchen appliances operating on similar frequencies can cause temporary disruptions. • Thick Walls and Filing Cabinets: Found in many older offices, these block or degrade signals, making it difficult to maintain a strong connection. The Productivity Solution: Simple Adjustments The good news? Most Wi-Fi issues can be resolved without significant investment. Trusted Reviews recommends simple changes to improve connectivity and ensure business productivity isn’t compromised. Tips to Improve Your Wi-Fi: 1. Reposition Your Router: Place your router centrally in your workspace, elevated, and away from obstructions like walls or large furniture. 2. Upgrade to a Mesh Network: For larger homes or offices, a mesh system can eliminate dead zones and ensure seamless connectivity. 3. Minimise Interference: Avoid placing routers near microwaves or reflective surfaces, and separate networks for business and personal use. “These simple fixes can have a significant impact,” says Max Parker, Editor at Trusted Reviews. “Reliable Wi-Fi is a critical productivity tool, especially as businesses continue to embrace hybrid working models.” How Hidden Wi-Fi Killers Are Costing UK Businesses Time and Money Trusted Reviews reveals the surprising causes of poor connectivity and simple steps to fix it, boosting productivity in remote and hybrid work settings. Why This Matters to UK Businesses Connectivity challenges are more than an inconvenience—they can directly affect bottom lines. From missed video calls with clients to delays in accessing shared files, poor Wi-Fi isn’t just frustrating—it’s costly. Businesses that proactively address these issues can reduce downtime, improve employee satisfaction, and ensure their teams remain connected.
Aug22136 11. If distribution and fulfilment operations ever did benefit from ‘cheap’ labour, a series of recent Government announcements has ensured that era is well and truly over. Controlling labour costs through automation is no longer optional – it’s a question of business survival. In short order, the Government has first raised the minimum wage by significantly more than inflation to £12.21 an hour for workers over the age of 21, Employer National Insurance contributions are rising from 13.8% to 15%, and in a further twist, this will now apply to workers on annualised pay of as little as £5,000 rather than the previous £9,100. That last provision in particular hits the many fulfilment operations that are heavily dependent on seasonal or casual employees to cope with peak in activity. This patten of employment is about to be even further challenged by the extension of a range of workers’ rights to ‘day one’ of employment. Details are as yet obscure, but they certainly aren’t going to reduce employment costs. The response must lie with automation, but particularly in the current uncertain economic climate, few businesses can afford the investment or business disruption required to go ‘full Amazon’ across activities such as retrieval, order picking and internal transport. These tend to be heavily interdependent, and ‘step by step’ approaches can be problematic. One area that for many fulfilment operations can be treated as a standalone project, with the prospect of significant reductions in labour requirement, and thus an attractively quick Return on Investment, is that of packing and labelling goods into cartons for transport. Ecommerce operations, in particular, can stand to reap big rewards in terms of savings in labour and material costs, as well as boosting productivity and performance at peak, if the right approach is taken. Our repeated customer experience is that using ‘fit to size’ automation to fold and build boxes around consignments – even of mixed and varied goods – followed by auto sealing, weighing and labelling, can see one or two operators replacing as many as twenty manual packing benches. But in selecting automated packaging technology businesses shouldn’t focus on labour costs alone. There are other cost pressures looming, and other benefits to be reaped. On costs, the revised Extended Producer Responsibility regulations are about to come into effect. These are complex, involving fees and credit notes and a significant administrative burden, but at heart they involve a levy on the use of packaging materials. Precise rates are yet to be fixed but the Government’s current mid-point estimates are around £190 per tonne for paper and card, and a deliberatively punitive £425 per tonne on plastic packaging materials. This is intended to encourage firms to reduce the use of packaging materials. Fortunately for ecommerce businesses the right form of packaging automation can also provide a highly effective solution to this No More Cheap Labour – It’s Time to Pack Smarter The rise in Employer National Insurance is but one factor set to impact ecommerce packaging. What can be done to alleviate the pain? Jo Bradley, Business Development Manager at Sparck Technologies suggests a hi-tech panacea issue too. Sparck’s ‘fit-to-size’ automated packaging systems not only minimise the use of card used, by tailor-making a box for each individual order, but can also eliminate the need for void fillers which are often plastic based. Those savings can go straight to the bottom line. But there are other less easily quantifiable but nonetheless real benefits. Well-fitting boxes reduce the incidence of shock or crush damage in transit. They economise on the use of transport space, which can also yield cost savings, on fuel obviously, but also in warehouse labour as there may be fewer roll cages to push around. And right-sizing removes what research consistently shows to be one of consumers’ biggest gripes about e-commerce and home delivery – oversized boxes! These factors together make a robust case for automation. But as employment costs bite, the labour-saving arithmetic of fitto-size automation alone will undoubtedly present a fast and sure Return on Investment for many businesses. More information on Sparck Technologies’ CVP Automated Packaging Solutions can be found at https://sparcktechnologies.com
www.eubusinessnews.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTY1MjM3