London Firm Buys Team Valley Retail World in Major £100m+ Deal

Retail World at Team Valley in Gateshead, a premier shopping destination with over 30 brands, has been purchased by Ashtrom Properties UK for a reported £100m-plus, marking one of the region's most significant real estate transactions of the past year.

Leeds EdTech Firm Expands Globally with Business Boost

FE Tech, a Leeds-based education technology company, is accelerating its global expansion into Asian markets after receiving support from the West Yorkshire Business Boost Export Programme, securing new partnerships and revenue.

M&S Plans New Megastore in Northwich with 70 Jobs

Marks & Spencer unveils plans for an 18,000 sq ft Foodhall in Northwich, Cheshire, featuring an in-store bakery, flower and wine shops, and a click and collect facility, potentially creating 70 new jobs.

Credit Card Rates Hit 20-Year High at 35.8%

The average credit card purchase APR has surged to 35.8%, the highest level in two decades, with experts warning about rising debt and advising consumers to monitor spending closely.

Birmingham Jobs Boom: Over 1,500 Over-50s Back to Work

Birmingham is experiencing a significant employment surge with over 1,500 residents aged 50-plus returning to work, marking a 10% annual increase. The DWP's targeted initiatives, including job fairs and mobile jobcentres, are driving this success.

EU Investigates Shein Over Childlike Sex Dolls and Weapons

The European Commission has opened a formal investigation into Shein for suspected breaches of EU law, including the sale of childlike sex dolls and weapons, as well as concerns about addictive design and opaque recommender systems.

NatWest Offers £150 Payments to New Banking Customers

NatWest has launched a new cash-switching offer, providing free £150 payments to new customers who move their accounts. The deal includes access to a high-interest savings account and requires a minimum deposit.

Shoppers Rave About 'Gorgeous' M&S Midi Dress for Spring

Shoppers are raving about a ribbed drop-waist midi dress from M&S, calling it 'gorgeous' and perfect for all-day wear. The affordable dress offers timeless elegance with a comfortable fit and versatile styling options for spring.

Asbestos in Asda Toys: Urgent Recall Across UK

Asda has urgently recalled Stretcherz toys over fears they may contain trace levels of asbestos. Parents are warned to stop using the items immediately and return them for a full refund.

NatWest £150 Bonus & 7% Savings for New Customers

NatWest is providing a £150 cash incentive and a competitive 7.00% AER savings rate to customers who switch to its Select or Reward accounts, with funds deposited within 30 days of meeting conditions.

UWE Bristol Opens Grant Scheme for Scaling SMEs

The University of the West of England has launched the next round of its Scale up 4 Growth scheme, offering match-funded grants to SMEs within a 50-mile radius to boost productivity and innovation.

Unemployment Hits 5.2%, Boosting Rate Cut Chances

UK unemployment reaches 5.2%, the highest since 2021, with falling payrolls and slowing wage growth increasing likelihood of a base rate reduction next month, as major lenders already begin trimming mortgage rates.

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