UK-Switzerland sign trade deal, direct flights to Sydney are on the horizon, and more top news

The news professionals in Europe are talking about now, curated by LinkedIn’s editors. Join the conversation on today's stories in the comments.

The UK and Switzerland have signed a post-Brexit trade deal. The continuity agreement will ensure the two nations — which see around ￡32 billion of trade done each year — can avoid disruption to businesses. The UK has so far signed continuity agreements with Switzerland, Chile, the Faroe Islands and Eastern and Southern Africa. In 2017, International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said the aim was to replicate 40 such agreements before the UK leaves the EU on March 29. ? Here’s what people are saying.

A non-stop flight between London and Sydney is getting nearer to reality, reports Bloomberg. Qantas CEO Alan Joyce says Boeing and Airbus will submit their plans for models capable of flying the 17,000km in the coming months, while the Australian carrier is working on a cabin layout that will offer maximum comfort for the 20-hour journey — which could include beds, child-care facilities and even a gym. Joyce envisages all major cities will soon be within range of direct flights. ? Here’s what people are saying.

The parent company of Swedish smartwatch maker Kronaby has filed for bankruptcy, according to The Local. Anima CEO Pal Borge says the company was given 1.5 months to find new investors after Chinese electronics manufacturer Goertek suddenly pulled its funding. Some 60 jobs are at risk if the Apple competitor, which was started three years by four executives from Sony Mobile, is unable to find new backers. ? Here’s what people are saying.

Some of Europe’s e-scooter companies are set to join forces to take on US firms, reports Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the matter. German startup Tier and Sweden’s Voi have reportedly already held discussions regarding a consolidation. The move comes as US rivals Bird and Lime, which have both raised hundreds of millions of dollars in funding, continue to rapidly expand across Europe. ? Here’s what people are saying.

Starting a company requires sacrifice, but if you live in Sweden it won't mean giving up your job. A unique Swedish law allows employees to take six months off — to study, look after a relative, or even start a business — without losing job security. Program participation has risen in recent years, coinciding with growth in Swedish innovation, reports the BBC. ? Here’s what people are saying.

Idea of the Day: A well-crafted communications plan that helps you connect to customers saves time and money, advises strategic communications consultant Geoff Jaeger.

“Complete the plan as if it were a jigsaw puzzle, answering the: who, why, what, when and how of your communication.”

What's your take on today’s stories? Share your thoughts in the comments.  

— Capucine Yeomans