Author: Rhys Gregory

The latest GDP figures for the UK, released this month, indicate a promising trend for the nation’s economy and hold significant implications for Wales. Paul Butterworth, CEO at Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, highlighted the encouraging data, stating, “Today’s GDP data, showing 0.4% monthly growth in May and 0.9% growth in the three months to May, suggests that the UK economy has had a strong start to the year. Services, production and construction output have all contributed to this better than expected growth.” This economic upswing can have several positive impacts on Wales, particularly in boosting business…

In the unpredictable world of personal finance, we sometimes find ourselves in need of urgent assistance to cover unforeseen expenses or emergencies. This is where a same day loan becomes a potential lifesaver. However, what does it take to qualify for a same day loan? Let’s delve into the facts and important considerations to keep in mind. Your Credit Score Matters Arguably, your credit score serves as a significant factor for most lenders. It’s an assessment of your creditworthiness based on your financial history and current credit situation. A good credit score increases your likelihood of securing a same day…

Watkin Jones, the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent, is pleased to announce that the Group has recently topped out on a 718 apartment Build to Rent (‘BTR’) development, Tai Afon, which forms part of the wider Central Quay masterplan in Cardiff.  This commemorative event signals that the concrete framework is now complete.  This was a significant milestone for everyone involved, including Watkin Jones, Legal & General (L&G), and the subcontractors. Forward funded by L&G, one of the UK’s leading financial services groups and a major global investor, Tai Afon will offer a range of studio, one,…

A glass manufacturer based in rural West Wales has invested in a smart laser cutting machine in a move to boost its production capacity and order book. As part of a plan to tackle its rising raw material costs, Pembrokeshire based Derw Glass made the decision to invest in the cutting-edge technology to enhance its productivity as it enters a new phase of growth. The new machine’s faster heating process and shorter cutting cycles compared with the business’ previous model will increase production capacity by over 30%, enabling Derw Glass to hold 30% more stock and run down backlogs of…

A LUXURY holiday retreat celebrating five years on the east coast will take a walk on the wild side this summer. Darwin Escapes’ Norfolk Woods Resort and Spa in Pentney, King’s Lynn, has unveiled a series of forest trails to open-up access to a unique and biodiverse woodland habitat which visitors can enjoy. Employing 30 staff and attracting hundreds of visitors and owners from across the UK, the popular, pet-friendly park – which has up to 120 spaces for rental and ownership – has been described as one of Norfolk’s “hidden gems” by Sales Manager Ellen Vardy. Following a period…

The total value of announced equity deals in Wales increased by 23% in 2023 compared to the previous year, however the number of deals fell by 8% for the same period. The data is reported in the British Business Bank’s annual Small Business Equity Tracker, published today, which reveals that investment declined by 48% to £8.8bn in 2023 for the UK as a whole, in line with other equity markets, while the number of deals fell by 25% to 2,152. Equity deal numbers fell across all devolved nations and regions in 2023, although activity in Wales was the most resilient…

House prices in Wales rose through the month of June according to the latest Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Residential Market Survey, resulting from a rise in demand and a fall in supply. A net balance of 8% of surveyors in Wales reported that house prices had increased in the most recent survey, up from -4% in May and -8% in April. And surveyors expect this trend to continue with a net balance of 13% of respondents anticipating a rise in prices through the third quarter of the year. This appears to be the result of a rise in…

A fast-growing bakery has secured investment for a multi-million pound expansion plan that’s going to create 65 new jobs – with the promise of many more to follow. The first phase will see the Jones Village Bakery installing a new production line to make bread rolls at its headquarters site in Wrexham to cater for demand from new and existing customers. The highly automated state-of the-art line will make a range of morning goods  and will be up and running by next year. The move has been made possible by a new partnership with French bakery giant, Menissez, a family-owned…

Following a rigorous recruitment process, the Commissioners for South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority are pleased to announce the appointment of Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan OBE DFC PhD as the new Chief Fire Officer. Commissioner Carl Foulkes, chair of the appointment panel, said: “Throughout this recruitment process, the Commissioners were acutely aware of the importance of finding an exceptional leader to guide the Service through the cultural and organisational changes it faces. “The Morris Review published in January called on the Service to broaden its approach to recruitment for senior level posts, which is why we extended the search outside…

Bangor University and Menai Science Park (M-SParc) unveil plans for the second building on the M-SParc site designed to solidify North Wales as a powerhouse for low carbon innovation. The plan to build a second building has taken a step forward as designs for the new building are unveiled for the first time. This project aims to leverage Bangor University’s academic strength and M-SParc’s business expertise to create a diverse and thriving economic base, supporting the region’s transition to a low-carbon future. With a focus on creating high-quality jobs and upskilling opportunities, the project, known as the Egni Project, will drive…