Summerfield solar investment saves 26 tonnes of CO2 every year
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 11:19 EDT
South West property developer Summerfield is generating almost 188,000 kWh of renewable electricity each year through its investment in solar energy, saving an estimated 26 tonnes of CO2 annually across five commercial sites. The Taunton-based company has installed 415 solar panels, with a combined capacity of 185.58 kW, across its commercial developments at Tauntfield in Taunton, Lakeside and Aintree House on Blackbrook Business Park in Taunton, Vantage Point and Belvedere House on Pynes Hill in Exeter. All supplied through green energy tariffs. The investment forms part of Summerfield's wider commitment to improving the energy efficiency and sustainability of its developments. This has helped Summerfield continue to attract occupiers, with only two office suites currently vacant across Summerfield's entire portfolio. The results come as Summerfield completes its first net-zero energy housing development at Middlezoy, where the homes are designed to generate as much energy as they are expected to use. The company is also continuing its investment at Westpark 26 Business Park in Wellington, where 16 new commercial units are being built to high energy-efficiency standards. The units will feature PV solar panels, with occupiers also offered electric vehicle charging options. Energy-saving measures are incorporated across Summerfield Homes developments, including double glazing, insulated doors, low-energy lighting, counterflow heat exchangers and electric vehicle charging points. The company also seeks to support biodiversity through new open spaces and green links, native tree and wildflower planting, and bird and bat boxes. At its flagship Killams Park development in Taunton, Summerfield has improved footpaths and cycleways while creating new green spaces and an Art and Nature Trail for residents and the wider community. James Holyday, Group Managing Director at Summerfield, said: "These figures demonstrate that practical investment in renewable energy is delivering measurable results across our commercial portfolio. It is reducing emissions, helping occupiers manage energy costs and making our workspaces more attractive to businesses. "With our first net-zero energy homes now complete at Middlezoy and further energy-efficient commercial units under way at Westpark 26, we intend to keep building on that progress and exploring new technologies across future developments."
Taunton businesses raise over £500 for Young Somerset's STAR Opportunity Fund at charity quiz night
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 11:10 EDT
Businesses and organisations from across Taunton came together for a charity quiz night on Thursday 15 October, raising £512 for STAR, Young Somerset's Opportunity Fund, which helps children and young people overcome financial barriers to accessing opportunities and activities. Organised by Taunton Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Taunton Young Chamber, the event took place at Taunton Vale Sports Club and brought together members of the local business community for an evening of friendly competition and fundraising in aid of Young Somerset . The evening raised funds through team ticket sales, a raffle and direct donations, with Clarke Willmott taking the top spot in the quiz. Bethan Turner, Membership and Events Manager at Taunton Chamber of Commerce, said: "This charity quiz night was a fantastic example of Taunton Chamber of Commerce and Taunton Young Chamber collaborating to support a great cause. We're hugely grateful to Taunton Vale Sports Club, a fellow Chamber member, for kindly waiving its hire fee to maximise the fundraising opportunity for Young Somerset. "We're also incredibly grateful to everyone who bought a team ticket and generously supported the raffle. A special thank you to our Quiz Mistress, Rachel Walker-House, for keeping everyone entertained and making the evening such a success. "This event really showed how our local business community can come together, have fun, support one another and make a positive difference." The funds raised will go directly towards STAR, Young Somerset's Opportunity Fund, which provides small grants to help children and young people access opportunities they might otherwise miss out on. This can include support towards the cost of sports clubs, music lessons, equipment and other activities that help build confidence, develop skills and improve wellbeing. Nik Harwood, Chief Executive of Young Somerset, said: "We're incredibly grateful to Taunton Chamber of Commerce, Taunton Young Chamber and everyone who supported the quiz night. It's fantastic to see local businesses coming together to make a real difference to young people's lives. "Every penny raised will go directly towards STAR, our Opportunity Fund, helping children and young people who might otherwise miss out on opportunities because of financial circumstances. Whether that's funding sports club memberships, music lessons or essential equipment, these opportunities can make a huge difference to a young person's confidence, wellbeing and sense of belonging. "£512 is a wonderful amount to raise in one evening, and we're so grateful to everyone involved for helping us create more opportunities for young people across Somerset."
American Marketing Association's Marketing / And Podcast Wins Bronze at the Signal Awards
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 10:42 EDT
American Marketing Association's Marketing / And Podcast Wins Bronze at the Signal Awards Hosted by AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson, Marketing / And is honored in the Creativity & Marketing Category Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) is proud to announce its flagship podcast, Marketing / And , hosted by AMA CEO Bennie F. Johnson, has won a Bronze award in the 5th Annual Signal Awards. Recognized in the competitive Creativity & Marketing category, the podcast stands out among global audio productions that define excellence, creativity, and powerful storytelling in the digital landscape. "Winning a Signal Award is an incredible honor and a reflection of the global marketing community that continues to engage, challenge, and inspire us," said Bennie F. Johnson, AMA CEO and podcast host . "We're excited to keep bringing fresh perspectives to our conversations and celebrating this milestone with our remarkable guests." Listen to the award winning season 8 of Marketing / And . The Signal Awards set the standard for digital audio excellence, honoring the podcast and audio creators shaping the future of the medium. Winning a Signal Award highlights Marketing / And's distinct voice and its commitment to exploring the complex and dynamic space where marketing intersects with leadership, technology, culture, and much more. Featuring deep-dive conversations with prominent CMOs, creative directors, entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders, Marketing / And discusses critical industry shifts from the rise of AI and innovation to radical brand strategies and foundational empathy. Each weekly episode provides listeners with actionable insights and visionary perspectives on how top leaders are shaping the future of the industry. Season 8 of Marketing / And is live now, with weekly episodes on Wednesdays. Visit ama.org to view all episodes or find it on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, Simplecast, and wherever you listen to podcasts. ###
DHA Fire Stopping backs 2026 Weston Beach Race and launches Diabetes UK fundraiser
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 10:15 EDT
DHA Fire Stopping has confirmed its support for the 2026 Weston Beach Race, returning as the event's Official Fire Safety Partner and Official Sponsor of the Youth Races, while also using the weekend to raise funds for Diabetes UK . The Weston-super-Mare-based fire protection specialist will have a trackside presence on the promenade throughout the event, which takes place from 16-18 October 2026. As part of its fundraising activity, DHA will invite race fans to visit its tent and make a voluntary donation to Diabetes UK for the opportunity to have a photograph taken with race bikes on display during the weekend. Young racer Preston 'Bam Bam' Chorley, sponsored by DHA Fire Stopping and riding as part of the 3 Flo Madison Crescent Yamaha bLU cRU team, will also join the team at selected times, giving fans the chance to meet him and have a photograph taken, subject to his racing commitments. All money raised through the photo opportunity will be donated to Diabetes UK, with both cash and card donations welcomed. Dave Alsop, Managing Director of DHA Fire Stopping, said: "We're really pleased to be supporting the Weston Beach Race again this year. It's a fantastic event for the town and one that brings together families, young riders, businesses and visitors from across the region. "As Official Fire Safety Partner and sponsor of the Youth Races, we're proud to play our part in supporting both the event and the next generation of riders. "This year we also wanted to add something that gives race fans a bit of extra fun while raising money for a worthwhile cause. We hope plenty of people will come and find us at the DHA tent, get a photo with the bikes and help us raise as much as we can for Diabetes UK." Louise Efford, Community Fundraiser - South West at Diabetes UK, said: "We're incredibly grateful to DHA Fire Stopping for choosing to support Diabetes UK through its involvement in this year's Weston Beach Race. "Every donation helps us continue our work supporting people living with diabetes, funding vital research and helping to improve understanding of the condition. "We hope everyone attending the event has a fantastic weekend and gets behind DHA's fundraising efforts." The 2026 Weston Beach Race takes place from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October on Weston-super-Mare's seafront. Visitors wishing to support the fundraiser should head to the DHA Fire Stopping tent, trackside on the promenade, where the photo opportunity will be available across the weekend.
Surveyor shortages risk leaving damp unresolved despite Awaab's Law compliance, warns Federation of Damp
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 08:36 EDT
Social landlords risk meeting Awaab's Law deadlines without resolving the underlying causes of damp and mould unless shortages of competent surveyors are addressed, the Federation of Damp has warned. Responding to the Government's Phase 1 "Test and Learn" research, the organisation said pressure to demonstrate compliance must be matched by the expertise and capacity to diagnose problems accurately and deliver lasting repairs. Commissioned by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and carried out by Verian, the research is based on interviews with tenants and focus groups with social landlords across England. Emergency hazards, it found, were largely manageable within the statutory 24-hour window. Damp and mould were a different story: cases may drag, often needing more complex diagnosis and several trades coordinated to fix the problem rather than just respond to it. Workforce shortages came up repeatedly, with surveyors and specialist trades singled out as a specific pinch point limiting how fast landlords could move. And the report flags something truly concerning: when capacity runs short and guidance is unclear, there's a real risk organisations end up focused on proving they've complied rather than on truly fixing what's wrong in the home. Sam Fitzgerald, founder of the Federation of Damp, said the report raises red flags, noting, "Damp surveying isn't a regulated profession. Anyone can call themselves a damp surveyor with no training at all. The report is picking up exactly the problem that creates: landlords are watching two clocks without always having the right people in front of the problem. "What worries me most is how often the conclusion is decided before anyone arrives. 'Condensation, resident lifestyle' is the cheapest possible answer for a landlord, which is exactly why it should be evidenced rather than assumed." Mindful of the introduction of Phase 2 of Awaab's Law on 30 November, Fitzgerald added, "Responding quickly and responding correctly are two different things, and only one of them is being counted. Phase 2 adds seven more hazard types onto teams already stretched on damp. If competence doesn't scale alongside the deadlines, landlords will keep hitting every timescale without really fixing the problem." The Federation of Damp works with housing providers and local authorities to build surveying capacity through its structured, City & Guilds Assured training and certification programmes, aimed at closing the competence gap the Government's own research has now identified. For more information, please visit federationofdamp.co.uk .
Waiting On the Budget? A Manual Pallet Truck Has No Energy Bill
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 05:57 EDT
As Chancellor John Healey prepares to deliver his first Autumn Budget on 28 October, for plenty of manufacturers in the Midlands and beyond one question hangs over it more than any other: will anything be done about energy costs? Make UK's latest Manufacturing Outlook, published in September, still lists them as a major barrier to growth, investment and job creation across the sector. Nobody on a factory floor can do much about that in the next fortnight. Midland Pallet Trucks says one small overhead can come off the list straight away, though. A manual pallet truck, stacker or lift table runs on the person using it and nothing else. No charger, no battery, no meter ticking over in the background. It isn't a saving anyone will mention in a Budget response. But while energy bills can be death by a thousand small draws, most sites have never looked at where their handling equipment sits in that picture. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "People hear the word manual and assume it's the cheap, old-fashioned option. For a lot of jobs, it's simply the better tool. "Short moves, awkward spaces, lighter loads, kit that gets used a few times a shift rather than all day. A pallet truck , stacker truck or a lift table does that without a charger to find a socket for or a battery to replace down the line. "I'm not against electric - we sell plenty of it, and some work genuinely needs it. But powered equipment shouldn't be bought out of habit. Before anyone signs for it, ask whether the job calls for it. "Nobody knows what the Budget will do about energy until the day itself. Kit that doesn't depend on the answer is one less thing to worry about while you wait." For manufacturers weighing up equipment before the year is out, Midland Pallet Trucks suggests walking the site and sorting handling jobs into two piles: those that need power, and those that only have it because it was the default. It costs nothing - and might just turn up a few surprises. For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
WebRun launches AI agents for business operations, with a developer API
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 05:12 EDT
SAN FRANCISCO, October 20, 2026: WebRun today launched its AI business automation platform for business owners, startup founders and small teams. Its AI agents automate the recurring work a team does across customer service, sales, finance and operations, inside the web tools the business already uses. Developers can use the same agent computers through WebRun's API and MCP server. Owners and founders set up agents by describing a job in plain language, recording their screen while doing it once, or choosing a workflow template. Each agent works on its own computer in the cloud, clicking and typing inside web tools such as Gmail, HubSpot, Salesforce, QuickBooks and Xero, on a schedule the business sets. The team's own computers do not need to stay on. The agents use each tool the way a person does: they look at the screen, then click and type. That lets them work in tools with no API or connector, such as an in-house admin system or a supplier's portal. Teams can assign agents to recurring work across departments, including: Customer service: answering customer emails, routing support tickets and replying to reviews. Sales: responding to new leads and following up on outstanding quotes. Finance: chasing overdue invoices, reconciling vendor bills and preparing recurring reports. Operations: booking appointments, sending reminders and turning work-order emails into jobs. For longer jobs, a business owner can give an agent a work list, such as 40 leads to follow up with. The agent processes one item at a time, tracking what is complete, what comes next and anything it skipped. Owners and founders also set rules for which websites agents can visit and which actions they may take. WebRun's Automation Policies check proposed clicks, typing and navigation before execution. An action set to require approval pauses the run for the owner's decision through Telegram or WhatsApp. Each run is recorded so the team can review what happened. For developers, WebRun offers the same infrastructure through a REST API and MCP server. WebRun has been deploying agentic AI since 2023. In 2024, the company released AiPlix, an AI web browser, on Google Play. The new platform applies that experience to recurring business work and developer automation. "Business owners and founders should be able to delegate a job, set the boundaries and know what happened," said Maged Gamani, founder of WebRun. "We built WebRun so a small team can put recurring work on a schedule across its existing tools. Developers can build on the same infrastructure for their own products." Availability WebRun is available now at webrun.ai , with plans from US$20 a month and a 7-day free trial. Product images and a short film are available at webrun.ai/press .
The Future Skills Gap: Research Identifies Five Skills Children Need For A Changing World
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:55 EDT
Review of eight global workforce and education publications highlights recurring priorities for preparing young people for life and work Ask a chatbot for an essay on the French Revolution and it can deliver one in seconds. The harder question is whether a twelve-year-old can recognise mistakes, question its conclusions and explain what needs improving. That distinction, between generating an answer and understanding it, is central to a review of recent workforce and education research by Learnlife, the award-winning independent school and education innovator. Drawing on eight publications released in 2025 and 2026, Learnlife has identified five recurring skill areas that can help children navigate a changing world: Critical thinking and problem solving: learning to question information, assess evidence and explain the reasoning behind a decision. Adaptability and learning how to learn: approaching unfamiliar challenges, responding to feedback and changing direction when an approach does not work. Communication and collaboration: expressing ideas clearly, listening to others and working through different perspectives. Creativity: developing original ideas, exploring alternatives and testing ways to improve a solution. Digital and AI literacy: understanding what technology can and cannot do, evaluating its outputs and using it responsibly. The review brings together findings from the World Economic Forum, Microsoft, LinkedIn, McKinsey, PwC and OECD. Learnlife says their implications extend beyond preparing children for employment, informing how education helps young people discover their interests, grow in confidence and develop skills for life. The workforce findings underline the pace of change. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 , employers expect 39 per cent of workers' core skills to change by 2030, with analytical thinking leading their current core skills priorities. Microsoft's Work Trend Index 2026 , which surveyed 20,000 workers using AI across ten countries, found that 50 per cent identified checking AI output and 46 per cent identified critical thinking as human skills becoming more important as AI takes on more work. The education evidence raises a related question. The OECD's Digital Education Outlook 2026 finds that improved performance on a task with AI assistance does not automatically translate into learning gains. How technology is used, and whether learners remain actively engaged in thinking, matters. Stephen Harris, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Learnlife, said: "An answer is only useful if a child can understand it, question it and decide what to do with it. Those habits develop through practice: explaining a decision, testing an idea, listening to another perspective and trying again when something does not work. "But education must also help children discover who they are. Exploring their passions, growing in confidence and learning to express themselves are part of developing the skills they need for life. We want children to feel excited about learning and to carry that curiosity beyond school." Learnlife's approach combines personal learning plans, real-world projects and support from learning guides and mentors. Learners are supported to explore their interests and take increasing responsibility for their learning, with opportunities to reflect, collaborate and respond to feedback. For parents, Learnlife says the practical question is how regularly children get to use these capabilities: explain their thinking, contribute to a shared project, explore an interest or improve their work after a setback. Its aim is to help children develop a lifelong love of learning, alongside the confidence and essential skills to thrive in life and the modern world. For more information, visit www.learnlife.com .
SGS Highlights Thailand's Proposed Updates to Food Contact Plastic Packaging Requirements
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:40 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 132.26, reporting on Thailand's proposed revisions to food contact plastic packaging requirements. A consultation opened on September 16, 2026, by the country's Food and Drug Administration (TFDA). The proposed amendments to the Notification of the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH No. 435) B.E. 2565 (2022) would revise requirements for permitted plastics, recycled materials and certain substances used in food contact plastic containers. The revisions include the following key changes: Introduction of seven new types of plastic and requirements for their use in food contact containers, including stricter migration limits for certain materials Removal of certain plastics used for the manufacture of containers New section covering plastic containers made from recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE), including detailed requirements Enhanced quality requirements for certain types of plastic, including provisions relating to epoxy derivatives, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and specific migration limits for selected substances Manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in the food contact plastic materials and articles supply chain in Thailand could be affected if the amendments are approved. The proposals are open to comment until December 31, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 132.26 includes a list of applicable phthalates and their abbreviations. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 132.26 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 material services. IMPACT NOW IMPACT NOW for sustainability consolidates all SGS's sustainability offerings under four strategic pillars: climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity. Through these pillars, SGS offers trusted compliance solutions that directly help businesses address the key environmental and social challenges impacting the planet. Find out more at www.sgs.com/impactnow SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Thailand Proposes Revisions to Food Contact Plastic Packaging Rules 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 Rutchuporn Moungsom Laboratory Manager Tel: +66 2 481 5259 extension 6320 Website: www.sgs.com LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
When Porn Becomes a Relationship Problem: A Therapist Explains the Impact on Trust, Intimacy and Control
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:37 EDT
More than half (53%) of therapists working with men with addiction reported a rise in porn addiction over the previous year, according to BACP's 2025 Mindometer survey. But when does pornography become a problem within a relationship? London psychosexual and relationship therapist Rea Shahroudi explains how loss of control, secrecy and differing erotic templates can affect trust and intimacy, and why understanding what is causing the distress is the first step towards addressing it. The co-founder of sex and relationship therapy platform Intima Therapy, Rea says the key question is how pornography use affects the couple's trust, intimacy and sex life. "If one partner in the relationship is really struggling with insecurity, or usage of porn is excessive and affecting the couple's sex life, then it is a problem," she explains. Secrecy can add another layer of difficulty. Shahroudi says people may hide their pornography use because they fear upsetting their partner, feel ashamed or worry about being judged for their sexual interests. When a partner discovers it, the resulting conflict can involve both the viewing itself and the feeling that something has been concealed. "For some it feels like the person has cheated on them with lots of other people," she explains. Understanding what pornography means to each partner is therefore part of understanding the disagreement. One may see it as private fantasy, while the other experiences it as rejection or a breach of the relationship's boundaries. "People watch for different reasons. For some, they are engaging in the fantasies which they feel they cannot indulge in while with their partners. For others, this becomes a means of relaxing and de-stressing, and excessive use may be a form of escape" says Shahroudi. Those different motivations give couples something more specific to discuss what role pornography plays, whether it is displacing time or intimacy together, and what each person feels comfortable with. Differences in sexual interests can also become part of that conversation, without assuming that partners must share every fantasy. In Shahroudi's own caseload, most people seeking help for compulsive pornography use are under 30. This is an observation from her practice rather than a population-wide finding. She says shame can make it difficult for people to raise the subject or seek support. For couples, the difficulty may build gradually. Viewing becomes a recurring source of disagreement, intimacy suffers, or one partner feels increasingly insecure. Meanwhile, work pressures and family responsibilities can push the relationship further down the list of priorities. For more information, visit intimatherapy.co.uk .
SGS Publishes SafeGuardS on Australia's Proposed IChEMS Chemical Scheduling
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:28 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 131.26, reporting on proposals by Australia to add ten classes of industrial chemicals to the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Instrument 2022 (IChEMS Register). The one-month consultation opened on September 21, 2026, by Australia's Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). The IChEMS Principles establish the framework for assessing environmental risk, with industrial chemicals placed in one of seven IChEMS Register schedules. The proposals would place a range of chemicals into Schedules 2 to 6 based on their assessed environmental hazard, including substances such as salicylic acid, dehydroacetic acid, hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrochlorofluoroolefins (HCFOs), nonylphenols, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC PFCAs). Implementation would begin from July 1, 2027, with higher-risk substances categorized as having the potential to cause, being likely to cause, or being capable of causing serious or irreversible environmental harm, while lower-risk substances would be classified as unlikely to cause harm. Stakeholders across multiple industries and supply chains, including manufacturers, users, importers and exporters of these industrial chemicals, as well as products that contain or are contaminated by them, will be affected by the proposals. The consultation is open to comments until October 23, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 131.26 includes a helpful table summarizing the scope, requirements and proposed effective dates applicable to LC PFCAs, their salts and related compounds, which fall under the Schedule 6 category of the IChEMS Register. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 131.26 for more details. SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Australia Consults on Proposed IChEMS Scheduling of Several Chemicals 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 LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Eminence Brings Private Balconies, Fine Dining and Small-Ship Exploration to the Galápagos
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 04:23 EDT
The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador's wildlife-rich archipelago, are explored mostly by boat - and Voyagers Travel Company, which helps travelers plan and compare Galápagos cruises, has added another amazing small-ship option to its curated selection. The Eminence is a luxury yacht with eight cabins and room for 16 guests at most, for a truly exclusive tour. The Eminence pairs modern design with a steady, stable ride, and the feel on board is sophisticatedly understated rather than showy. Every cabin has panoramic windows, an en-suite bathroom and its own climate control. Up on the sun deck, the views run a full 360 degrees and there's an open-air Jacuzzi - perfect for a drink in the evening after a day of wildlife watching! In the kitchen, the team cooks international dishes around fresh Ecuadorian ingredients, and meals are served in the indoor dining room or outside - whichever guests prefer. Daily snacks come on top of the three main meals. Purified water, coffee and tea are available around the clock, and non-alcoholic drinks are included with meals. Excursions are led by bilingual naturalist guides certified by the Galápagos National Park, who explain the flora and fauna guests come across. The rate also covers snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel and fins), the use of sea kayaks, and airport transfers on the days cruises begin and end. Marco Sancho, CEO of Voyagers Travel, says the ship is only half of the decision. "The route is just as important, because each itinerary gets you to different islands and different wildlife. The Galápagos Islands are teeming with biodiversity, and we want our guest to be able to see as much if it as possible through this once-in-a-lifetime cruise. "The Eminence is an intimate way to explore, and we're here to help people work out whether its itineraries and onboard experience are right for them." Departures are open for 2027. The season starts on June 14 with a three-night cruise on itinerary C. From there the schedule includes four-night trips and seven-night routes, among them a November 11 departure combining itineraries C and D and a holiday route in December. Availability changes from one departure to the next, and three dates (July, October and December) already have a waitlist. For more information, visit: https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagos/cruises/eminence
Rawbank Choisit la Digital Banking Suite de SBS Pour Accélérer Ses Services Digitaux en Afrique Centrale
Tue, Oct 20, 2026 03:49 EDT
La première banque de la RDC et de l'Afrique centrale renforce son partenariat avec l'éditeur français SBS qui accompagne plus de 1500 institutions financières dans le monde Paris, le 20 octobre - Dans le cadre de sa stratégie de transformation digitale, Rawbank, qui s'appuie déjà sur SBS Core Amplitude, un core banking modulaire et sécurisé permettant aux institutions financières de piloter l'ensemble de leurs opérations au sein d'un socle unifié et évolutif, franchit une nouvelle étape stratégique en adoptant la SBS Digital Banking Suite afin d'accélérer le déploiement de ses services bancaires digitaux auprès de sa clientèle. La SBS Digital Banking Suite simplifie radicalement le quotidien des consommateurs finaux en fluidifiant leurs parcours digitaux de bout en bout. Grâce à cette technologie agile, les clients de Rawbank bénéficieront d'applications mobiles et web plus intuitives, d'une autonomie accrue pour gérer leurs comptes à distance et d'une réduction drastique des délais d'attente, notamment pour l'ouverture de compte en ligne (onboarding digital) ou la gestion des cartes et des paiements. Flexible et évolutive, la plateforme garantit aux utilisateurs une qualité de service moderne, stable et calquée sur les meilleurs standards internationaux. « L'innovation technologique constitue un levier essentiel de notre stratégie de développement. Avec la SBS Digital Banking Suite, nous renforçons notre capacité à proposer à nos clients des services toujours plus simples, accessibles et performants. Cette plateforme nous permettra d'accélérer la mise sur le marché de nouvelles fonctionnalités, d'offrir une expérience digitale enrichie et de poursuivre notre ambition de rendre les services financiers plus accessibles au plus grand nombre en République démocratique du Congo », a déclaré Arvind Kumar, CIO chez Rawbank. Ce projet s'inscrit dans la volonté de Rawbank de moderniser en continu son écosystème digital afin d'anticiper les nouveaux usages, tout en consolidant sa position de banque de référence en matière d'innovation et de services financiers numériques en RDC. « Avec Rawbank, nous passons une nouvelle étape : celle où un socle core banking performant rencontre une couche digitale pensée pour aujourd'hui. C'est exactement cette alliance qui permet à une banque de s'imposer comme référence du digital banking en Afrique centrale, en s'appuyant à la fois sur une connaissance fine du marché local et sur des capacités technologiques de niveau mondial », a déclaré Hassan Nasser, Deputy General Manager, Digital Engagement chez SBS. En adoptant la SBS Digital Banking Suite, Rawbank confirme son engagement historique en faveur de l'inclusion financière. Cette évolution technologique se traduira concrètement pour les particuliers, les entrepreneurs et les PME du pays par un accès facilité à des solutions de paiement modernes et une expérience bancaire mobile beaucoup plus riche au quotidien. À propos de SBS SBS est un éditeur de logiciels mondial qui accompagne les banques et les acteurs des services financiers dans leur transformation digitale à l'ère de l'intelligence artificielle. Partenaire de confiance de plus de 1 500 institutions financières et établissements de crédit dans 80 pays, dont Santander, Société Générale, BNP Paribas, Groupe BPCE, Crédit Agricole, La Banque Postale, HSBC, Attijariwafa Bank, Nationwide, NextGear Capital, Mercedes-Benz et Toyota FS, SBS allie plus de 50 ans d'expertise bancaire à une gamme de solutions primées, conçues pour l'ère de l'IA. Son architecture composable couvre l'ensemble des grandes fonctions bancaires : core banking, crédit, paiements, conformité, open banking et financement d'actifs. Avec ses 2 800 collaborateurs répartis dans 50 bureaux à travers le monde, SBS est reconnue comme l'un des huit premiers éditeurs mondiaux de solutions de core banking par Everest Group (2026), Strong Performer dans le Forrester Wave : Digital Banking Engagement Platforms (2026), Leader dans le SPARK Matrix des plateformes de banque digitale (2025), Top 10 des fintechs européennes selon IDC (2025), Leader dans l'Omdia Universe : Digital Banking Platforms (2024), et Leader dans l'Everest Group Banking Customer Experience Orchestration PEAK Matrix (2024). SBS fait partie de 74Software, aux côtés d'Axway, formant ainsi un groupe logiciel international. Son siège social est à Paris, en France.
American Marketing Association Explores Future of Marketing Profession in Executive in Residence Program Series
Mon, Oct 19, 2026 09:00 EDT
American Marketing Association Explores Future of Marketing Profession in Executive in Residence Program Series Raja Rajamannar, Senior Fellow at Mastercard, will join as guest speaker Conversation will explore marketing strategies, practices, and learnings that will shape the future of the profession Chicago, IL -This October, the American Marketing Association (AMA) will host a new Executive in Residence program. This virtual event is designed to create meaningful dialogue between industry innovators and leading academics. These conversations explore emerging trends, the evolving skills today's marketing students need to succeed, and the forces shaping the future of the marketing profession. AMA's newest guest is Raja Rajamannar, senior fellow at Mastercard, serving as a true brand ambassador following an extraordinary 12-year tenure as chief marketing and communications officer. During his time leading the company's integrated marketing and communications function, Raja transformed Mastercard into one of the fastest-growing brands in the world. He evolved the iconic Priceless campaign into a truly experiential, multisensory brand, infusing emerging technologies and advanced data analytics, even while pioneering new standards in inclusive design. Details: AMA Executive in Residence Program Bringing top business and academic leaders together → learning to action Tuesday, October 27, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT Register Here Join us for a thoughtful dialogue that will: Advance marketing education by allowing academics to engage with executives who are shaping the profession. Nurture marketing theory and research by giving scholars access to first hand accounts of the challenges facing leading executives. Support industry thought leadership and community interplay by bringing together industry leaders and academics to build the future of the profession. Additional information about the Executive In Residence Program is here . You can register here for the event. ###
Folk-rock pioneers Steeleye Span - The Conflict Tour Continues - Autumn 2026
Mon, Oct 19, 2026 05:47 EDT
Together for fifty-seven years now, Steeleye Span changed the face of folk music forever by taking it into the world of gold discs and international tours. Following their spring dates, the band return this autumn with Conflict, their first full studio album in over five years. Traditional singers have long performed modern and self-composed pieces alongside older songs, and Conflict follows that tradition. Its title reflects both the times we live in and the strain on our relationship with the planet. The album's lead single Over the Hills and Far Away was released last year, accompanied by a music video. Popularised in contemporary culture by John Tams' effective use of the song in the 1990s British television series Sharpe , it was also notably recorded by former Steeleye Span member Tim Hart on his album My Very Favourite Nursery Rhymes . Now, Steeleye Span present their distinctive and unmistakable take on this traditional English folk song. The Conflict Tour continues across the UK in October and November 2026. Joined by violinist Athena Octavia, the band will draw on their rich history with songs from across the years, tracks from Conflict and firm fan favourites. Led, as ever, by Maddy Prior, Andrew Sinclair, Roger Carey, Liam Genockey, Julian Littman and Athena Octavia. The latest album Conflict is available now and will be available to purchase on tour. Conflict is available on streaming now. STEELEYE SPAN - EXCLUSIVE LIMITED EDITION 7" VINYL SINGLE Featuring "Hard Times of Old England" with Francis Rossi and "New York Girls" with Frank Skinner, this special double A-side 7-inch vinyl single is available exclusively at the merchandise stand throughout the tour. WATCH THE LYRIC VIDEO: "Hard Times of Old England" featuring Francis Rossi Listen to the single Over the Hills and Far Away THE CONFLICT TOUR CONTINUES - AUTUMN 2026 UK DATES OCTOBER Saturday 17 October - The Witham, BARNARD CASTLE Box Office: 01833 631107 Book Here Monday 19 October - Victoria Theatre, HALIFAX Box Office: 01422 351158 Book Here Tuesday 20 October - Buxton Opera House, BUXTON Box Office: 01298 72190 Book Here Thursday 22 October - The Core at Corby Cube, CORBY Box Office: 01536 470470 Book Here Friday 23 October - Saffron Hall, SAFFRON WALDEN Box Office: 01799 588545 Book Here Sunday 25 October - Princess Theatre, HUNSTANTON Box Office: 01485 532252 Book Here Monday 26 October - The Stables, MILTON KEYNES Box Office: 01908 280800 Book Here Tuesday 27 October - Beam, HERTFORD Box Office: 01992 531500 Book Here Thursday 29 October - Wycombe Swan Old Town Hall, HIGH WYCOMBE Box Office: 0343 310 0060 Book Here Saturday 31 October - Birmingham Town Hall, BIRMINGHAM Box Office: 0121 780 3333 Book Here NOVEMBER Sunday 1 November - Pavilion Theatre, WORTHING Box Office: 01903 206206 Book Here Tuesday 3 November - Princes Hall, ALDERSHOT Box Office: 01252 329155 Book Here Wednesday 4 November - Tivoli Theatre, WIMBORNE Box Office: 01202 885566 Book Here Thursday 5 November - Fairfield Ashcroft Theatre, CROYDON Box Office: 0300 500 0595 Book Here Saturday 7 November - Salisbury City Hall, SALISBURY Box Office: 01722 580815 Book Here Sunday 8 November - Elgiva Theatre, CHESHAM Box Office: 01494 582900 Book Here Monday 9 November - Cheltenham Town Hall, CHELTENHAM Box Office: 01242 850270 Book Here Tuesday 10 November - Savoy Theatre, MONMOUTH Box Office: 01600 772467 Book Here Thursday 12 November - Landmark Theatre, ILFRACOMBE Box Office: 01271 316523 Book Here Friday 13 November - Taliesin Arts Centre, SWANSEA Box Office: 01792 604050 Book Here For all dates and tickets: steeleyespan.org.uk/2026-autumn-tour/ Social Links @SteeleyeSpan steeleyespan.org.uk @Steeleye_Span @Steeleye_Span @steeleye-span.bsky.social
Damp Experts Warn Homeowners: Check These 5 Things Before Paying for Treatment This Winter
Mon, Oct 19, 2026 04:06 EDT
With damp and mould cases rising as temperatures drop, the Federation of Damp is urging homeowners not to pay for treatment until they understand exactly what's causing the problem, warning that rushed or unqualified diagnoses are leaving people out of pocket and still living with damp. The independent training and certification body says it regularly hears from homeowners who were offered treatment before anyone properly explained what was wrong with their property, or who received conflicting diagnoses from different tradespeople looking at the same patch of damp. The Federation is advising homeowners to watch out for five warning signs before agreeing to any work this winter: Treatment offered before the cause is explained . A quote for remedial work with no clear account of what's causing the damp is a red flag. Conflicting diagnoses . If one visit says rising damp and another says condensation, something in the process has gone wrong. Expensive work pushed through immediately . Reputable surveyors give homeowners time to think, not pressure to sign on the spot. Credentials that can't be checked . Anyone can call themselves a damp surveyor - there's no legal requirement for training. No clear explanation of findings . A proper inspection should produce a report that sets out what was found and why, not just a verdict. Sam Fitzgerald, founder of the Federation of Damp, said treatment should never come before a proper investigation. "Treating damp as a repair rather than a diagnosis is the biggest mistake people make. Skip the diagnosis and you're not fixing the problem, you're scheduling its return," he said, adding that the quality of an inspection comes down to process. "A competent inspection starts with the building, not the mould. It investigates the source rather than describing the symptom, and it produces a report someone else can follow and challenge." Homeowners can protect themselves by asking three simple questions before any work begins: what damp training the surveyor has completed, whether they belong to an independent body with a complaints process, and whether they can see a previous report the surveyor has written. To help homeowners find a properly trained, independently certified surveyor, the Federation of Damp maintains a public Find a Specialist register, allowing anyone to check a surveyor's credentials before committing to treatment. For more information, please visit federationofdamp.co.uk .
The Perfect Gift for the Man Who Has Everything? British Brand Buff & Bloom Has an Unexpected Answer
Mon, Oct 19, 2026 03:55 EDT
A rechargeable Shoe Shine Kit gives traditional polishing a modern update, and gives Christmas shoppers a present he won't see coming Every family has one: the father who insists he needs nothing, the husband whose drawers are already full, the boyfriend who answers, "what would you like?" with a shrug. As Christmas approaches, British shoe-care brand Buff & Bloom is offering shoppers a way out of the annual gifting dilemma. Forget the socks, the aftershave and the novelty gadgets. Buff & Bloom's rechargeable Shoe Shine Kit promises to revive smooth-leather shoes to a 'shiny' condition in about three minutes. The kit comes with a press-to-apply cream applicator and a powered horsehair brush, doing away with the need for an array of tins, brushes plus cloths, typically messy and inconvenient. It is a smart gift - unusual, yet eminently practical, and perfect for the busy modern man who wants to maintain the appearance of his leather shoes or who travels a lot for work. The kit includes a rechargeable powered horsehair brush, a built-in cream applicator, and a storage case. Additional shoe creams in Black, Dark Tan, and Neutral shades, as well as brush heads, are available for purchase, ensuring the recipient continues to enjoy the gift's benefits for a long time. The kit is designed for use with smooth leather footwear only - suede, nubuck, and other fabrics are not recommended. Charles O'Ferrall, Founder of Buff & Bloom, says, "Every Christmas, there's always someone who's impossible to buy for. They've already got everything they need, they don't want another pair of socks, and when you ask what they'd like, they simply say 'nothing'. "We wanted Buff & Bloom to be the sort of gift that someone might never think to buy for themselves, but once they've tried it, they wonder how they managed without it. Shoe polishing has been done in much the same way for generations. We believe looking after a good pair of leather shoes should be simple, quick and something people actually enjoy doing. "Buff & Bloom brings that tradition into modern life. It's practical, a little unexpected and, most importantly, something that can be used long after Christmas." Product samples are available to suitable journalists and gift-guide editors, subject to availability. High-resolution product and lifestyle imagery, demonstration videos and before-and-after polishing footage are available on request. For more information, please visit www.buffandbloom.co .
eXp Realty realises the future of global real estate agency with Nexus platform rollout
Mon, Oct 19, 2026 03:42 EDT
Proprietary platform brings CRM, listings, communications, transactions, marketing and AI into one operating system Built from the outset for international real estate, supporting multiple currencies, tax structures, commission models and languages CALA rollout provides first major proof point, with around 390 active users across seven markets in the last 30 days Mexico has already processed 480 transactions end-to-end through Nexus since June eXp Realty has launched Nexus, its proprietary operating system designed to bring the core technology used by real estate agents into one platform, as the global real estate business looks to strengthen its international proposition through its own technology infrastructure. Built specifically for eXp Realty International, Nexus brings together CRM and contact management, deal pipelines, listings, portal syndication, communications, calendars, marketing, e-signatures, transaction management, commission processing and AI functionality within a single operating system. Built for international real estate from day one Rather than being developed for one market and adapted internationally at a later stage, Nexus has been built around the differing requirements of global real estate markets, including country-specific currencies, tax structures, commission plans and languages. The platform currently supports six languages - English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German and Japanese - and is being rolled out across eXp's international markets. CALA provides the first major proof point Latin America is providing the first major proof point for adoption and live usage. Across seven CALA markets - Mexico, Ecuador, Chile, Colombia, Brazil, Peru and the Dominican Republic - around 580 agents and staff had already logged into Nexus by 29th September, around 390 of whom were active during the previous 30 days. The platform is also already supporting significant day-to-day activity, with around 2,300 active pipeline deals and 2,300 listings being managed through Nexus, alongside more than 142,000 WhatsApp and email messages sent through the system. Mexico demonstrates full transaction capability Mexico provides the clearest example of Nexus operating across the full real estate transaction journey. Since June, 480 transactions have been processed end-to-end through the platform, with 429 completed and approximately MXN 46.9 million in gross commission associated with those transactions. One operating system for the global real estate market Nexus has been designed around the way agents operate across different international markets, rather than around the requirements of a single country. Agents can connect their own WhatsApp, Gmail or Outlook accounts and calendars directly to Nexus, with conversations and activity linked automatically to the relevant client relationship within the CRM. Open APIs and lead webhooks also allow websites, property portals and other tools to push leads and deals directly into the system, while listings can be distributed from within the platform. This international-first approach is intended to make Nexus configurable as eXp expands it across markets, avoiding the need to rebuild the technology stack country by country. From a global platform for agents to the global platform for the agent The launch represents a significant next step for eXp International. eXp has already built a global real estate business around a disruptive brokerage model that gives agents greater independence, ownership and opportunity. Nexus adds a proprietary technology layer around that model, creating a single operating system through which agents can increasingly manage their clients, listings, communications, transactions, marketing and use of AI. AI is embedded within the platform, with current functionality including virtual staging, video generation from listing imagery and AI-assisted database importing. Nexus has also been developed around natural-language interaction, allowing agents to query business information such as transaction history, pipeline activity and lead generation conversationally. The wider ambition is to establish Nexus as the technology platform underpinning eXp's international operations as rollout continues across global markets. Felix Bravo, Managing Director of eXp International, commented: "Nexus represents the next stage in how we support agents globally. "eXp has already built an international real estate business around a model that gives agents greater independence, ownership and opportunity. Nexus now gives us the proprietary technology layer around that model, bringing the core systems an agent needs to run their business into one place. "The important distinction is that Nexus has been built for international real estate from day one. Different markets have different currencies, tax structures, commission models, languages and ways of working, and the platform has been designed around those differences from the outset. "Latin America is already giving us strong proof of how Nexus can be adopted and used at scale, but the bigger ambition is global. We want Nexus to become the operating system behind the eXp agent wherever they are in the world." Sources Nexus production data supplied by eXp Realty International, correct as of 29th September 2026. CALA markets included: Mexico, Ecuador, Chile, Colombia, Brazil, Peru and the Dominican Republic. Approximately 580 agents and staff had logged into Nexus. Approximately 390 users were active during the previous 30 days. Approximately 2,300 active pipeline deals. Approximately 2,300 listings. More than 142,000 WhatsApp and email messages sent through Nexus. Approximately 100,000 messages sent during the previous 30 days. Mexico: 480 transactions processed end-to-end through Nexus since June 2026. Mexico: 429 completed transactions. Mexico: approximately MXN 46.9 million in gross commission associated with reported transaction processing. ### Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about the rollout, adoption, functionality and expansion of Nexus and its ability to underpin eXp's international operations. These statements are based on current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including delays in developing or scaling the platform, agent adoption, compliance with country-specific legal, tax and regulatory requirements, technology performance, cybersecurity and reliance on third-party services, the development and regulation of AI, currency fluctuations, general economic and real estate market conditions, and the other risks described in eXp World Holdings, Inc.'s filings with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Usage, transaction and commission figures are approximate, unaudited internal data as of September 29, 2026, are not indicative of future results, and gross commission is not a measure of eXp's revenue. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release, and eXp undertakes no obligation to update them except as required by law.
GS Securities Partners with Acuity Trading to Bring AI Trading Signals
Mon, Oct 19, 2026 03:10 EDT
Clients get analyst-built trade ideas with entry, stop-loss, target and reasoning, alongside Event Intelligence, Market Intelligence and Market Companion, powered by Acuity's MarketReader GS Securities, the global online broker for forex and CFD trading, has partnered with award-winning market intelligence provider Acuity Trading to give its clients the full Acuity intelligence suite. GS Securities clients now get AI trading signals on forex, gold and indices, a calendar of the economic and corporate events that move markets, and news and sentiment analysis, all inside one account. The agreement covers Acuity's three intelligence pillars, Trade Intelligence, Event Intelligence and Market Intelligence, together with Market Companion, powered by MarketReader, which explains in plain language what may be driving a market move. Trade Intelligence, built on Acuity's AnalysisIQ, combines AI with the work of Acuity's technical analysts. Every trade idea comes with an entry level, a stop-loss, a target and the reasoning behind it, and ideas are created or updated every 10 minutes. Clients find them in the GS Securities client portal and in MT5 on desktop, so they can go from idea to order without leaving their platform. Event Intelligence tracks the developments that move prices, from economic data releases and central bank decisions to company earnings. Market Intelligence analyses news and market sentiment to show how the mood around an asset is changing and why prices may be reacting. Market Companion draws on price action, news, macroeconomic data and relationships between assets to explain the likely drivers behind a move. Where relevant, it shows Acuity's analysis of the same market alongside the explanation. AI-generated content is clearly labelled. For GS Securities, the partnership adds a research layer to its MT5 offering. Clients can check the reasoning behind a trade idea, see which events are coming up and understand why a market is moving before they decide whether, and how, to trade. Andrew Lane, CEO of Acuity Trading and MarketReader, said: "Market information is most useful when traders understand the context around it. Our partnership with GS Securities puts market explanations, event intelligence and analyst-supported trade ideas in front of its clients, helping them form their own view of what is happening in the markets. "Market Companion adds to that context by explaining the potential drivers behind price movements. Together, these tools are designed to support research and individual judgement." David Freeman, CEO of GS Securities, said: "Our clients want more than a price chart. They want to know why a market is moving, what is coming up next and the thinking behind a trade idea. Partnering with Acuity Trading puts that research straight into their GS Securities account, covering market movements, key events and trade ideas. "We are giving our clients better tools, not promises. Every idea shows its entry, stop-loss, target and reasoning, so clients can judge it for themselves and decide what fits their own circumstances and trading." The Acuity intelligence suite is available now to verified GS Securities clients through the client portal and MT5 on desktop. Find out more at gssecurities.io/en/resources/ai-trading-signals Regulatory information Human Technical Analysis research is provided by Acuity Research Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference number 787261. Acuity Trading Limited is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The tools and information described in this release provide general, non-personalised market analysis and do not constitute investment advice, a personal recommendation or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument. Trading involves risk, and past performance or previous market patterns are not reliable indicators of future results.
Over 30,000 Drivers Email Prime Minister and Chancellor in Just 24 Hours Demanding Action on Fuel Duty
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 12:23 EDT
More than 30,000 motorists, families, small business owners, tradespeople, farmers and hauliers have emailed the Prime Minister and Chancellor in just 24 hours , demanding urgent action on fuel costs ahead of the Budget on 28 October. The unprecedented response follows a FairFuelUK campaign urging supporters to contact the Government directly and demand policies that support drivers, reduce business costs and boost economic growth. The flood of emails sends a clear message to Downing Street and the Treasury: Britain's drivers believe they are being unfairly targeted, overtaxed and ignored. At the centre of the campaign is a letter calling on Ministers to recognise that road transport is not a luxury, but the economic backbone of the nation. Supporters warn that excessive fuel taxation keeps driving up household costs, damaging small businesses, and raising prices for goods and services across the economy. WHAT FAIRFUELUK DRIVERS ARE DEMANDING The email sent by more than 30,000 supporters calls on the Prime Minister and Chancellor to: Cut Fuel Duty to provide immediate relief for hard-pressed families and businesses. Commit to a permanent Fuel Duty freeze. Introduce a genuine PumpWatch regulator with legal powers to investigate and prevent excessive fuel pricing. Match the action taken by more than 40 countries that have intervened to reduce fuel costs for motorists. Stop treating drivers as an endless source of tax revenue. Recognise affordable mobility as a driver of economic growth, lower inflation and stronger communities. Meet FairFuelUK Founder Howard Cox to discuss his independently developed 20-Year Transport Strategy, produced with input from more than 80,000 drivers and transport stakeholders. "DRIVERS HAVE HAD ENOUGH" Commenting on the overwhelming response, Howard Cox, Founder of FairFuelUK , said: "More than 30,000 people have emailed the Prime Minister and Chancellor within just 24 hours because drivers have had enough. They are tired of being treated as cash cows while politicians ignore the reality that affordable road transport is essential to every family, every business and every community in Britain. This isn't just about motorists. Every product on every supermarket shelf, every tradesperson, every delivery, every small business and every worker depends on affordable transport. Ministers constantly talk about growth. Cheaper fuel is one of the fastest and most effective ways to lower costs, tackle inflation, and stimulate economic activity. Drivers' message couldn't be clearer. Cut Fuel Duty, introduce real fuel market transparency, and start treating Britain's motorists as part of the solution, not the problem." BUDGET TEST FairFuelUK says the scale and speed of the response demonstrates growing frustration amongst motorists who feel successive governments have failed to understand the importance of road transport to both the economy and everyday life. The campaign believes the Chancellor's Budget on 28 October will now be seen by millions of drivers as a critical test of whether the Government is prepared to back working people, small businesses and economic growth or continue relying on motorists to fill Treasury coffers. With thousands more emails continuing to arrive in Government inboxes, FairFuelUK says the strength of drivers' feelings can no longer be ignored. RANDOM COMMENTS FROM THOSE WHO EMAILED THE PM AND CHANCELLOR "I'm a pensioner living in a very rural part of Wales. I need my car for hospital appointments. The nearest bus stop is 3 miles away." "Crude oil prices are lower than they were 2 years ago, but the price at the pump is about 30% higher. The price at the pump shoots up as soon as there is a possibility of a supply disruption, but it comes down at a snail's pace. This has always been the case. This is why we need stricter regulations around fuel pricing. It's annoying that other countries can and do reduce prices to help their voters. Only British governments see the public as a cash cow, not only when it comes to fuel." "Bus services in my area are unreliable and infrequent. Car ownership is essential for getting to other towns for shopping and work." "As a self-employed driving instructor, these increases are crippling for my small business." "We live in a rural village with no public transportation at all! We rely entirely on our car to get to shops, the pharmacy, doctors, and hospitals! Without our car, we would be marooned. We're in our late 70s and worry about not being able to travel." "Aside from the obviously unfair taxation on fuel, alongside high road-fund taxation and inflated insurance costs, I strongly believe that the neglect of road infrastructure is a national and international disgrace! Living in East Sussex, where visitors from the Continent first encounter these 3rd-world conditions, I am utterly embarrassed" "Even though I plug in for 96% of my PHEV's use, I am still signing up with FairFuelUK and lobbying for a freeze on fuel duty, because the repercussions of continuing fuel duty escalation go way, way beyond just buying expensive fuel. It ultimately affects every citizen living, working, and/or simply existing in the UK. This government's Fuel Duty policy is literally economically unsustainable for the rest of us trying to survive on already grossly inadequate wages." ENDS More than 30,000 emails were sent to the Prime Minister, Chancellor and key Government decision-makers within 24 hours of the campaign launch on 16/10/2026. The campaign email template used by FairFuelUK supporters can be accessed at: https://fairfueluk.eaction.org.uk/Cut-Fuel_duty-Oct28 Email Letter Content is at : https://fairfueluk.com/FairFuelUK-Supporter-Pre-Budget-Email-to-PM-and-Chancellor.pdf FairFuelUK has campaigned highly successfully for fairer motoring taxation and transparent fuel pricing for over 17 years. Howard Cox is Founder of FairFuelUK and author of a groundbreaking proposed 20-Year National Transport Strategy for the UK, due to be published shortly. Get your copy via howard@fairfueluk.com
