Business
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Over a quarter of women face workplace harassment in the UK. WalkSafe’s data highlights persistent harassment issues, with 27% of women and 16% of men affected. Many employees believe companies should enhance safety measures, valuing anonymous reporting systems.
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Starbucks announces £750 million restructuring, closing cafés and cutting jobs. The coffee chain will shut underperforming stores in North America and the UK, affecting staff and customers. Despite closures, Starbucks plans 80 new UK openings this year amid strong competition and financial challenges.
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The Labour government plans to introduce mandatory digital ID cards. The proposal would require all UK workers to hold a digital ID, verified by employers at the point of hire. Ministers argue it will curb illegal work, while SMEs face both opportunities and challenges in compliance and implementation.
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UK fintech leader urges LSE and Nasdaq merger to boost market. Cleo’s founder highlights the need for political will to improve capital prospects, proposing a UK-US stock exchange merger as a solution to the UK’s finite capital challenges.
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Heriot-Watt University launches a global Professional Academy. The online platform offers more than 50 stackable, university-credited courses designed to help professionals upskill rapidly while building towards postgraduate qualifications. Courses span business, psychology, sustainability, and specialist sectors, with content co-developed alongside leading industry partners.
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BT’s CEO urges Chancellor against raising business costs further. Allison Kirkby warns that the telecoms industry already faces high government-imposed costs, urging stability in regulatory and fiscal policy to ensure returns on investment in critical infrastructure.
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UK employees want flexibility at work, rejecting rigid office rules. A new report from Owl Labs shows 86% demand flexible hours, with a four-day week and work-to-rule tactics becoming mainstream. The findings highlight the growing expectation for autonomy, fluid schedules, and supportive technology.
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Britain will ease high-skilled worker visas to attract global talent. UK finance minister Rachel Reeves said the plan would counter new U.S. restrictions, with potential cuts to fees under review as London courts displaced workers.
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Amazon to close all 19 UK Amazon Fresh stores. The move endangers around 250 jobs as the company shifts focus to online sales and expands its Whole Foods brand. A consultation with employees has been initiated, with some roles possibly redeployed.
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Vodafone franchisees warned of mental health impacts four years ago. A 2020 survey revealed franchisees experienced stress and anxiety after commission cuts, leading to a £120 million High Court case alleging unjust enrichment by Vodafone.
