CMA Investigates ABF's Hovis Takeover
The UK's competition watchdog has launched a formal investigation into Associated British Foods' purchase of Hovis. The outcome could reshape the British bread market. Read the full details.
Category : Search result: Competition and Markets Authority
FCA investigates WHSmith after major accounting error
The Financial Conduct Authority has opened an investigation into WHSmith following a significant accounting failure in its North American arm that wiped £600m from its value. Read the latest.
WH Smith recovers bonuses after £50m accounting error
WH Smith launches clawback of executive bonuses as the FCA investigates a £50m profit overstatement in its US arm. The retailer pledges governance reforms.
West Midlands transport staff strike over pay dispute
Bus station workers and customer service staff in the West Midlands walk out for a second time, rejecting a 3.2% pay offer. UNISON warns of disruption to transport and projects.
Birmingham Christmas Market 2025 enters final week
Time is running out to experience Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market 2025. The festive attraction departs on Christmas Eve. Discover what's still on offer for your last-minute visit.
Jet2 expands Birmingham's Christmas Markets for 2026/27
Jet2 announces eight 'fairytale' Christmas market destinations from Birmingham Airport for Winter 2026/27, including new flights to Copenhagen. Book your festive getaway.
Police Reassure Public Over Birmingham Safety
West Midlands Police launch Winter in Action initiative with specialist officers to tackle knife crime and reassure visitors to Birmingham's Christmas Markets. Senior officers urge public not to fear the city centre.
Jet2's New Copenhagen Christmas Route from Birmingham
Jet2 announces a brand-new festive route from Birmingham Airport to Copenhagen's Christmas markets for Winter 2026/27, expanding its seasonal offerings. Book your magical getaway now!
Edgbaston's historic stands demolished for £46m redevelopment
Demolition starts on Edgbaston's Raglan and Priory Stands, paving the way for a new £46m stand and Radisson RED hotel ahead of the 2027 Ashes. The project will boost jobs and the local economy.
Labour's Two-Year Plan for UK Crypto Regulation
The UK government announces a two-year timeline to bring crypto firms under FCA regulation, aiming to boost innovation and consumer protection. Read the full details.
Birmingham parents anxious over Christmas market safety
Parents in Birmingham are expressing deep concern over letting their children visit the city's Christmas Markets alone, following a spate of knife crime. Discover their fears and police safety advice.
Birmingham Council plans sale of iconic Alpha Tower
Birmingham City Council proposes selling the freehold of the Grade II listed Alpha Tower to aid its financial recovery. Key committee vote set for December 16.
Bus franchising threatens Liverpool matchday travel business
Tony Mullane fears his £2 taxi-bus service for Liverpool FC fans could be squeezed out as the city region moves to a publicly controlled bus network. Read his story and the Combined Authority's response.
Birmingham's Two Christmas Markets: 3 Main Differences
Discover the three main contrasts between Birmingham's huge German Christmas Market and the Cathedral Square craft market. Plan your perfect festive visit with our guide.
Inside Birmingham's multi-million pound Christmas market
From Transylvanian traders to economic impact, we explore the love-hate relationship with Birmingham's sprawling Frankfurt Christmas Market. Discover the facts and share your thoughts.
Cotswolds Outlet's First Christmas: Markets & Offers
The new Cotswolds Designer Outlet near the M5 celebrates its first Christmas with festive markets, big discounts, and family activities. Find all your gifts under twinkling lights.
£246m for West of England bus service improvements
The government has announced a £246m funding package for bus services across the West of England. Local authorities will decide how to spend the money on new vehicles, infrastructure, and keeping fares low.
Construction worker wins £47k dream car in online draw
A London construction worker was left speechless after winning a brand-new £47,000 Cupra Terramar in an online spot-the-ball competition he'd played for two years. Discover his incredible story.
£264m funding for faster, cheaper West Midlands buses
A £264.1 million government funding package will transform bus services in Birmingham and the West Midlands, aiming for lower fares and more reliable journeys. Discover how this investment will impact your commute.
DWP's new anti-fraud powers to save £1.5bn
The DWP unveils a major crackdown on benefit fraud with new data powers to prevent overpayments and recover billions. Discover the new 'no hiding place' measures.
Cheltenham's Four Christmas Markets & Ice Rink Near Birmingham
Discover Cheltenham's festive magic with four unique Christmas markets, an ice rink, and independent shopping, just a 35-minute train ride from Birmingham. Plan your perfect Christmas day out.
Leicester Christmas Market in UK Top 20
The Independent ranks Leicester's festive market 12th in the UK. Discover its dates, stalls, and the West Midlands favourites also on the list.
Kelly Osbourne Shares Brummie Christmas Family Tradition
Kelly Osbourne receives Lord Mayor's Award for late father Ozzy and reveals her family's heartfelt Birmingham Christmas market tradition with son Sidney. Read her touching tribute.
West Midlands Christmas Markets in UK Top 20
The Independent's guide to the UK's best festive markets features Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Worcester Christmas Fayre. Discover dates, highlights, and what makes them special.
Birmingham's Christmas history in 26 iconic photos
Discover how Birmingham's Christmas celebrations have transformed over the last century through 26 nostalgic photographs showing festive markets, decorations and community spirit.
Strictly Come Dancing spoiler leaked, fans devastated
The Strictly Come Dancing 2025 results have been leaked online, leaving fans devastated as a potential finalist is eliminated before the quarter-final. Discover the full story and fan reactions.
Birmingham Christmas Markets: Which is Best?
Birmingham's two Christmas markets go head-to-head in our festive comparison. Discover which market offers the best food, gifts and atmosphere this winter season.
Santander £100,000 prize draw: Sunday deadline
Santander urges customers to keep £100 in their accounts by 30 November 2025 for a chance to win £100,000 in a Christmas prize draw. Learn how to enter and stay safe from scams.
Sandwell Council's Week: Key Decisions Revealed
From a controversial 24/7 casino approval to a rejected 'battery farm' HMO and a UK-first robotic pharmacy. Get the full update on Sandwell Council's major decisions this week.
West Midlands Christmas Markets 2025 Guide
Discover five magical Christmas markets across the West Midlands this December 2025. From Birmingham's Cathedral Square to a Victorian market in Sutton Coldfield, find unique gifts and festive fun.
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