Author: Rhys Gregory

The Welsh business community has been quick to react to today’s Budget, offering a mix of concern, caution and calls for clarity. While many welcome the new investment heading to Wales, business leaders say the tax rises and lack of detail risk holding back confidence at a time when firms need stability. Gus Williams, CEO of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “It is not entirely clear who this Budget is really for. There are a mix of backloaded taxes that will impact various people while there is no real standout boost for business. The leaked OBR…

Immersed – the multimedia festival curated by creative students at the University of South Wales – will return to Cardiff for 2026, with headliners CVC announced today (26 November) by BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens. Taking place on Saturday 7 March at Tramshed, Cardiff, Immersed promises an action-packed fusion of music, film, art, fashion and theatre, based on the theme of ‘Believe in Magic’. Supported by Creative Wales, the festival raises awareness for Music Declares Emergency – the industry’s climate change awareness charity. More than 30 artists and bands will perform across four themed stages, featuring homegrown talent from…

Punk titans Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter will headline an incredible night of music in Cardiff next summer celebrating 50 years of punk. The original members of the Pistols Steve Jones, Paul Cook and Glen Matlock, will be joined by frontman Frank Carter to headline TK Maxx Presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle on Saturday August 1. Rising Cardiff punk newcomers Panic Shack will open the show, with the historic castle also welcoming special guests punk legends The Stranglers and The Undertones. One of the most influential rock bands of all time, 2025 has seen the new Pistols once more emerge…

PURESEOUL has kicked off its UK expansion with a strong start in Cardiff, drawing huge crowds to its Welsh debut at St David’s. The brand’s opening weekend saw hundreds of K-Beauty fans queue for hours, with some travelling from across the UK to be among the first through the doors. Cardiff was selected as the first location in PURESEOUL’s winter rollout thanks to the high demand from Welsh customers. The brand says its Welsh community has become one of its most dedicated online followings. Combined with St David’s reputation as one of the UK’s busiest retail destinations, the centre was…

The frustration of opening the dishwasher to find dirty plates and spot-covered glasses is a common household headache. High Speed Training, a leading provider of online training, gives expert guidance demonstrating that often, the issue isn’t the appliance itself, but a simple loading error. Dr. Richard Anderson, Head of Learning & Development at High Speed Training, said: “Following a few simple steps can dramatically improve the hygiene and efficiency of your dishwasher. Proper loading also helps your appliance run more effectively, saving energy and prolonging its lifespan.” Common dishwasher mistakes Overcrowding: Packing racks too tightly prevents water and detergent from…

ACKENZIE JONES Solicitors continues to make a difference beyond the law, putting people and compassion at the heart of everything it does across North Wales and Cheshire. With offices in St Asaph, Chester, and Menai Bridge, the firm has proudly served its clients and communities for more than 25 years. The company has supported local charities, sports clubs, and community initiatives, and that looks set to continue for generations to come. Director Anna Mills Morgan said: “We’ve been part of the community for a quarter of a century, and giving back has always been central to who we are. “Whether…

The University of South Wales has announced the appointment of Professor Osama Khan as its new Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive. Professor Khan will join the university next May. Professor Khan joins us from Aston University, where he served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). Professor Khan brings extensive experience in higher education leadership and a strong commitment to curriculum innovation, student experience, teaching excellence, and digital transformation. On his appointment, Professor Khan said: “It is a privilege to be appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Wales. I am deeply inspired by the University’s unwavering commitment to inclusive education and its pivotal…

WORK has officially begun on a new 50-bedroom student accommodation development at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi. Following planning approval and the completion of all environmental assessments, construction teams are now on site laying the foundations for the multi-million-pound project, which will further enhance the college’s growing reputation as one of the UK’s leading land-based education providers. The development – designed by TACP Architects and being built by fellow Wrexham firm Read Construction – follows the recent opening of the £10m Hwb Arloesi/Innovation Hub on campus. That state-of-the-art facility includes a library, classrooms, laboratories, a climbing wall, a coffee shop, meeting spaces,…

Much-loved Cardiff live music venues, Tramshed and The Globe, are to return to their independent roots after being acquired by the newly-formed Propaganda Independent Venues. Propaganda’s Dan Ickowitz-Seidler, along with Richard Buck, announced the acquisition of Tramshed and The Globe as part of their acquisition of TEG’s UK venue estate. This also includes Camden Assembly (formerly legendary indie venue Barfly), XOYO London, and XOYO Birmingham. The change in ownership marks an exciting moment for music in Cardiff. Propaganda is the UK’s biggest indie night, and Propaganda Independent Venues is committed to supporting grassroots venues, artists and music fans. As Tramshed…

The Government has announced that, from April 2026, the National Living Wage will increase to £12.71, an increase of 4.1%. The wage rate for 18- to 20-year-olds will increase to £10.85, a higher-than-expected increase of 8.5%. In total, the wage increases represent a total £1.4 billion in additional cost for hospitality businesses. The additional cost once again increases the sector’s tax burden and further demonstrates the need for the Government to deliver business rates reform in full. This means: Implementing the maximum possible business rates discount for all hospitality properties below £500,000 rateable value. Ensuring no penalty charge is applied…