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NOVUNA BUSINESS FINANCE RESEARCH: 8 IN 10 SMALL BUSINESSES CITE BARRIERS TO GROWTH

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LONDON, June 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — More small businesses cite barriers to growth today (80%) than was the case in pre-pandemic Britain (73%) – and, compared to the last General Election year (2019), across five industry sectors and six UK regions more small businesses cite market challenges that are holding them back. 

Compared to the last General Election year of 2019 –  small businesses in five industry sectors – construction (83%), hospitality (86%), media (86%), medical (80%) and agriculture (78%) – are more likely today to be facing barriers to growth.

Regional findings: Compared to the last General Election year (2019), small business owners in six regions – South West (87%), East Midlands (83%), South East (82%), West Midlands (81%), North West (80%) and Wales (78%) – are more likely to cite barriers to growth today.

These findings are the latest from the quarterly Business Barometer study from Novuna Business Finance, which has been tracking small business outlook for the last 10 years. The latest poll found that eight in 10 small business owners identified barriers to growth that were holding them back.

The UK’s top 5 barriers to growth for small businesses in Q2 2024

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Of those small businesses that cite barriers to growth, it is clear from the Novuna data that there are five major challenges that have remained as barriers over time and have resonance to enterprises spanning region, sector, age and turnover.

  1. Market uncertainty: This is the single biggest issue for small business owners today. Whilst slightly down on last quarter, 41% of enterprises name it as a barrier to growth, and the level of concern over market uncertainty is significantly higher today than it was during the pre-Covid years. For example, in 2015, 31% of small businesses cited market uncertainty as a barrier to growth – and in 2016 the figure stood at 33%.
  2. Overheads/ fixed costs: A symptom of the economic volatility, energy price rises and cost-of-living crisis which followed the War in Ukraine – 25% of small business owners see these rising costs as a barrier to growth.
  3. Brexit: Nationally, 21% of small business owners still cite its legacy as a barrier to growth.
  4. Cost of skilled labour: The challenges small business owners face finding skilled labour – and at an affordable price – is at a record high. For the last three years, this has been a consistently serious problem, with 19% citing it as a top barrier to growth in Q2 2024. Furthermore, there have been significant five-year rises in the North East (from 7% to 22%), London (17% to 27%) South East (10% to19%) – and rises too in the North West, West Midlands, East, South West, Wales and Scotland.
  5. Red tape: Whilst the proportion of small businesses that cite red tape as a barrier is falling, it is still prevalent for 16% of enterprises nationwide.

Jo Morris, Head of Insight, Novuna Business Finance comments: Many small businesses see more and bigger barriers to growth today than they did before the world changed in March 2020. Some issues like Brexit have endured rather than faded, and the economic challenges of recent years have left a lasting legacy on dealing with fixed costs, overheads and labour costs. On top of all this, is the dark cloud of uncertainty, something every small business owner dislikes and finds it hard to forward-plan against. At Novuna Business Finance we are working to provide flexible tailored financial solutions that help established small businesses to achieve their true potential.”

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/novuna-business-finance-research-8-in-10-small-businesses-cite-barriers-to-growth-302172915.html

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Global Talent Partner Phaidon International Strengthens Board With New CPO

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NEW YORK, June 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Phaidon International, the professional services firm specializing in securing business-critical talent, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Norton as the new Chief People Officer (CPO). This strategic hire reflects Phaidon International’s commitment to accelerating global growth and delivering outstanding results for clients worldwide.

 

 

Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in people strategy. With over 20 years of experience, he has held key leadership roles at Campari Group and Broadcom where he played a critical role in driving results through strategic talent initiatives, modernizing the operating model for commercial success.

“We’re thrilled to have Mark Norton join our executive team,” said Harry Youtan, CEO of Phaidon International.

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“Mark’s expertise will support our continuing goals to expand our global reach and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Mark’s leadership perfectly aligns with our mission to empower businesses and individuals to achieve their full potential.”

As Chief People Officer, Mark will unite Talent, Human Resources and Training functions under one single roof, to build and execute a strategy aligned to a high-performance growth organization. His leadership will be instrumental in accelerating the business as Phaidon International looks to continue its ambitious growth plans.

“I am excited to join Phaidon International and contribute to its vision,” said Mark.

“I look forward to working with the team to develop forward-thinking people strategies that not only attract and retain top talent but also drive the company’s success in the marketplace.”

This appointment comes at a pivotal time for Phaidon International as it continues to expand its services and solutions to meet the evolving needs of businesses in today’s competitive landscape, strengthening its position as a trusted talent partner and driving growth for clients and professionals globally.

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For more information about Phaidon International and its services, please visit phaidoninternational.com.

About Phaidon International

Phaidon International identifies, sources, and delivers business-critical talent to the most innovative industries in the world. Delivering its capabilities through a deliberately curated group of 6 brands, each one specializes in the following industries, where a relentless supply-demand imbalance exists:

Selby Jennings – Financial Sciences & Services
LVI Associates – Energy & Infrastructure
DSJ Global – Supply Chain
EPM Scientific – Life Sciences
Glocomms – Technology
Larson Maddox – Regulatory & Legal

Today, Phaidon International is proud to deliver excellence to clients in over 60 countries, winning over 50 independent awards along the way. Phaidon International is backed by Further Global.

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Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2448516/Phaidon_International_Mark_Norton.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1880120/Phaidon_Logo.jpg

 

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Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-talent-partner-phaidon-international-strengthens-board-with-new-cpo-302183208.html

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DAR GLOBAL SETS A NEW BENCHMARK IN LUXURY HOSPITALITY WITH LAUNCH OF THE $500 MILLION TRUMP INTERNATIONAL OMAN IN AIDA

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DUBAI, UAE, June 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Dar Global, the luxury international real estate developer, introduces Trump International Oman at its expansive AIDA project, one of the world’s largest premium mixed-use real estate developments.

 

 

Valued at $500 million, this development includes a luxury hotel, hanging suites, furnished villas, and apartments serviced by the hotel. It features a 18-hole Championship golf course, a members-only club, and the Cliff Hanging Night Club. Opening in December 2028, the 140-key, 5-star hotel complex is beachfront, offering guests complimentary private beach access.

AIDA is a joint venture between Dar Global and the Trump Organization, in partnership with Omran Group, Oman’s executive arm for tourism development. Situated atop a hill over 100 meters high, AIDA boasts panoramic views of rocky canyons and endless beaches.

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Ziad El Chaar, CEO, Dar Global, said: “The launch of Trump International Oman in AIDA, signifies a significant leap in our endeavor to build an unmatched hospitality portfolio in the world’s most coveted destinations. Reflecting Dar Global and Trump Organization’s commitment to excellence, this landmark establishment not only sets new standards in international hospitality but also advances Oman’s tourism vision, drawing in a broader audience while stimulating domestic tourism.”

Eric Trump, EVP, The Trump Organization, said: “In collaboration with Dar Global, we proudly introduce Trump International Oman in AIDA, ushering in a new era of style, service, and exclusivity with the renowned Trump standard. This partnership reflects our shared dedication to crafting iconic luxury experiences for discerning travelers and investors, enhancing Oman’s prominence as a premier global destination.”

Unique to Trump International in Oman are picturesque hanging suites with private pools and ensuite bathrooms offering sweeping views. Complementing the golfing lifestyle are a training academy and a members-only club with exclusive amenities for networking and social events. The Cliff Hanging Night Club, a first in the ME, offers an unrivalled setting for bespoke events and celebrations. Other amenities include diverse dining options, banqueting and meeting facilities, and an expansive SPA.

Disclaimer: Trump International Oman is not owned, developed or sold by The Trump Organization or any of their current or former principals or affiliates. Dar Al Arkan Property Development SPC, the owner and developer of the property, uses the “Trump” name and mark under license, which license may be terminated or revoked according to its terms.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2448900/Dar_Global.jpg

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Rising Concerns in Food Security: How Agritech and Food Companies Are Responding

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USA News Group Commentary
Issued on behalf of Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc.

VANCOUVER, BC, June 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — USA News Group – Citizens of Portland were covered in smoke this week, after a 4-alarm grease fire destroyed the Shin Shin food factory. This incident followed another fire earlier in June that broke out at the Champlain Beef meat processing plant which is situated between the border of Upstate New York and Vermont, while another chicken factory in Illinois erupted in flames at the beginning of the month. While these two tragedies likely won’t make a dent in the overall food security of the United States, they do present a rising trend of concern towards where our food comes from. At every level, new research is finding ways to keep the food supply chain going, with new research from Carnegie Science showing that adopting new approaches to fertilizers can pave the way for more sustainable, resilient food sources. In the private sector, some of the top agritech companies continue to make major strides in their work to secure the food of the future, including new developments from Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. (CSE: BEE) (OTCQB: BEVVF), AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO), Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: LW), Bunge Global SA (NYSE: BG), and Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG).

One innovation that’s gaining a lot of momentum is the concept of using commercially-reared bees to deliver biological pesticide alternatives directly to crops. It’s a method that some experts say has the potential to transform the $250 billion crop protection and fertilizer industry.

At the forefront of this innovation is Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. (BVT) (CSE: BEE) (OTCQB: BEVVF), which focuses on biological agricultural products (“biologicals”) that aim to replace chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Its method of utilizing bees to deliver necessary biologicals has already received approval from the EPA on two occasions, in 2019 and 2021.

According to DataHorizzon Research, the biologicals sector is already experiencing significant growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.3%, expected to reach a market size of US$45.3 billion by 2032.

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The latest win for BVT is its announcement today of a partnership with the newly formed €8 billion (~US$8.56 billion) company Syensqo, a science and innovation pioneer in specialty chemicals and materials. As per the deal, BVT and Synensqo through an R&D agreement will develop BVT’s proprietary biological control agent Clonostachys rosea strain CR-7 (CR-7) into a seed treatment formulation for the multi-billion soybean market.

“Collaborating with Syensqo is a huge extension of our R&D efforts,” said Ashish Malik, CEO of BVT. “Their large team of formulation chemists and microbiologists will enable us to get to market with a strong seed treatment formulation much faster. Fast-tracking BVT into soybean crops through the well-established seed coating market will expand the Company’s addressable market beyond bee vectoring, bringing CR-7 to more growers by tapping into approaches they are already familiar with. BVT’s go-to market strategy is to commercialize this new CR-7 seed treatment product for sale through large agriculture suppliers, partners and distributors.”

The partnership comes after BVT recently achieved significant progress with CR-7, particularly as a seed treatment for soybeans. Recent US trials showed wherever CR-7 was applied, the results outperformed the base seed treatment 81% of the time. This is in addition to previous successful trials in 2021, which also showed CR-7 to be an effective treatment against Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS), a huge challenge for soybean growers.

BVT has expanded its corporate partnerships, leading to international trials and wider use of CR-7. A Michigan State University trial demonstrated CR-7’s effectiveness, reducing early disease infection and fungal diseases by over 90%, matching traditional chemical treatments.

In the past year, BVT has initiated trials in Spain, Mexico, and South Africa, and made its first sale of CR-7 to BioSafe Systems. Encouraged by positive trial results, BVT plans to conduct further trials to confirm CR-7’s effectiveness.

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Today is also the launch of the annual Tech Days in North America event from AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO). The event will highlight AGCO’s commitment to farmer-focused solutions for the mixed fleet.

“Managing a farm is complicated, managing the right machine and technology for the job shouldn’t be,” said Eric Hansotia, Chairman, President and CEO of AGCO. “AGCO is unique in offering differentiated equipment brands to serve all farmers’ needs and the only company that can effectively retrofit almost any make or model of equipment with technology that will lead to higher yields with fewer inputs. This is how we have consistently put Farmers First for years.”

Embedded within AGCO’s entire portfolio are precision agriculture and clean technology solutions designed to help farmers sustainably feed the world now and in the future. AGCO Finance, the company’s financing arm, also focuses on future growth by collaborating with dealers globally to offer farmers customized and flexible financing solutions.

Potato processor Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: LW) recently reached a settlement with Oregon regulators over wastewater violations. However, the potato giant is now also facing a securities lawsuit that claims Lamb Weston hid tech problems that cost millions. However, those challenges aside, Lamb Weston is persevering with new partnerships and innovation, including a newly announced partnership with foodservice company ILG Food Group to better serve the Swedish Mediterranean foodservice market. Lamb Weston and ILG Food Group have been partners for the Dutch and Belgian markets for years, and are now expanding their partnership to Sweden.

For the pet food market, Bunge Global SA (NYSE: BG) recently expanded into pea, faba protein concentrates through a new factory in Latvia, exclusively producing for Bunge and run by Golden Fields. Bunge’s new range of pea and faba protein concentrates offers several enhanced attributes, including 55% to 70% protein content, non-GMO and allergen-free labeling, a light color, and a finely powdered form. News of the agreement for Bunge came shortly after Golden Fields opened the plant-based facility, which cost €16 million (~US$17.1 million) to build.

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Bunge highlights the sustainability benefits of its new protein concentrates, produced using crop-rotation practices and dry-fractionation methods that eliminate the need for water or solvents typically used in pulse protein production.

“Our new pea and faba protein concentrates are setting the bar for European-origin pulse proteins to help customers meet growth and sustainability needs across food and feed,” said the company on social media.

Packaged foods giant Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) recently announced it’s advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) solutions through a human-centered approach that prioritizes responsible use of AI across the entire company. Done through a strategic collaboration with Microsoft and EY to enhance its IT, Supply Chain, R&D, Demand Science, Brand and Design operations.

“As we implement new solutions available to us through collaborations and emerging technologies, we are not only realizing measurable results now, but identifying opportunities for future growth,” said Azeem Kapadia, senior director of AI strategy at Conagra Brands. “These new digital capabilities will benefit our entire team, sharpen our focus and better shape how we operate and innovate throughout Conagra.”

Article Source: https://usanewsgroup.com/2024/05/06/the-buzz-on-eco-farming-how-bees-are-pioneering-the-future-of-crop-protection/ 

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USA News Group
Editorial Staff

CONTACT:
USA NEWS GROUP
[email protected]
(604) 265-2873

DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. USA News Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. (“MIQ”). MIQ has been paid a fee for Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. advertising and digital media from the company directly. There may be 3rd parties who may have shares of Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc., and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ own shares of Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. which were purchased in the open market, and reserve the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. at any time without any further notice. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material disseminated by MIQ has been approved by the above mentioned company; this is a paid advertisement, we currently own shares of Bee Vectoring Technologies International Inc. and will buy and sell shares of the company in the open market, or through private placements, and/or other investment vehicles.

While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between the any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/rising-concerns-in-food-security-how-agritech-and-food-companies-are-responding-302183344.html

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