Your July gap insight is here!
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We're just over halfway through the year already (we don't know how either!), and with the (un)expected downpours continuing we're hoping our July gap insight will bring a little sunshine to see you through, or at least distract you from the rain for 5 minutes. This month, we explore The Flexible Working Bill, the sustainable packaging debate in FMCG, the surprising growth of UK breweries, advancements in manufacturing and warehousing, and our usual round-up of the latest employment data. Happy reading!
In employment...
The recent announcement by the UK government regarding a significant increase in visa application fees has raised concerns for businesses, particularly those reliant on international talent. Work and visit visa fees will rise by 15%, while study visas, settlement, and other categories will see increases of at least 20%. For HR leaders and teams, navigating these cost increases will be crucial, considering the potential impact on talent pipelines, global mobility, and workplace diversity. As businesses grapple with the financial implications, careful planning and strategic use of the immigration system will be essential to manage the effects of these fee hikes. Read more?here.?
The Flexible Working Bill has received Royal Assent, granting millions of British workers greater flexibility in their work arrangements. Under the new legislation, employees will have the right to request flexible working from day one of a new job, and employers must consider and discuss these requests within two months. This move aligns with the government's commitment to promote flexible working and offers clear benefits to both workers and businesses, including improved talent attraction, staff motivation, and retention. The call for evidence on non-statutory flexible working aims to further understand the role of flexibility in the labour market. Read more?here.
Latest employment data...
The UK employment rate rose by 0.2% to 76% (March 2023 - May?2023), an increase driven by part-time and self-employed workers. Unemployment also increased, up by 0.2 percentage points on the quarter to 4%. Meanwhile the economic inactivity rate decreased by 0.4 percentage points on the quarter, to 20.8%. Looking at economic inactivity by reason, the quarterly decrease was largely driven by those inactive for "other reasons" and those looking after family or home.?
Vacancies fell by 85,000 on the quarter to 1,034,000, for the 12th consecutive period, reflecting uncertainty across industries as survey respondents continue to cite economic pressures as a factor in holding back on recruitment. Growth in average total pay (including bonuses) was 6.9% and growth in regular pay (excluding bonuses) was 7.3% among employees. In real terms (adjusted for inflation), growth in total and regular pay fell on the year in March to May 2023, by 1.2% for total pay and 0.8% for regular pay.?Read the full June?ONS labour market report here.
In FMCG....
Is paper really better for the Earth than plastic? Though often seen as a sustainable option, paper packaging faces challenges due to deforestation and recyclability concerns. The demand for paper is surging, leading to the felling of billions of trees annually. While companies invest in alternatives to plastic, finding suitable alternatives for paper packaging remains a challenge. The industry is torn between meeting consumer demands for sustainability and addressing the practical limitations of other materials. The search for the most eco-friendly packaging solution continues. Read more?here?.
The second quarter of 2023 has seen a surprising rise in the total number of breweries in the UK, as reported by the SIBA UK Brewery Tracker. Despite challenging trading conditions and some brewery closures, the industry saw a net increase of two breweries during the three-month period from April to June 2023. This growth reflects the increasing demand for craft beer and the popularity of brewery taprooms. However, the industry still faces challenges, including inflation and other sector-specific issues affecting the broader hospitality trade.. More?here.
Prime energy drinks, co-founded by YouTubers Logan Paul and KSI, are under FDA scrutiny for their high caffeine levels. They were a viral sensation, and first release of these drinks in UK supermarkets caused huge queues, and were even banned in some schools. Despite being advertised as zero sugar and vegan, each 12-ounce can contain 200 milligrams of caffeine, equivalent to six cans of Coke. With age restrictions and bans already in place, should the FDA step in to investigate further? Read more?here.??
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In manufacturing...
Here's a historic milestone for you - the UK and Denmark have achieved a groundbreaking connection of their electricity grids through the Viking Link interconnector. Stretching 475 miles across land and sea, this ￡1.7 billion ($2.2 billion) project promises to revolutionize energy sharing and bring cleaner, more affordable power to both nations. Read the full article?here.?
UK Power Networks, in partnership with Ovo Energy and Tepeo, is leading a game-changing trial of smart boilers for low-carbon heating. Discover how this innovative project could reshape home heating and advance the UK's path to a sustainable, net-zero future?here.?
The UK automotive industry is set to receive a much-needed boost as Jaguar Land Rover's parent company, Tata, announced?plans for a new battery gigafactory in Somerset. With a capacity of 40GWh and production due to start by 2026, the factory aims to meet the surging demand for electric vehicles, creating over 4,000 jobs and stimulating the wider supply chain. The move will position the UK as a major player in battery technology and strengthen its position in the global shift to zero-emission vehicles..?Read on for industry experts' reactions and the potential impact on the UK's automotive future.
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In warehousing...
Parcel delivery company DPD plans to extend autonomous robot deliveries to 10 additional UK towns and cities, starting in Raunds, Northamptonshire. Following a successful trial in Milton Keynes, the robots will feature three parcel compartments and longer battery life. DPD's move aligns with its commitment to sustainability and innovative delivery solutions. Read more?here.
领英推荐
Eurotunnel's new platform, Sherpass, aims to simplify border crossings for freight and the supply chain. By centralizing data flows and eliminating manual paperwork, the platform offers a seamless, time-saving solution for road haulers and logistics providers starting from October 2023. Sounds positive to us! Read more?here.?
The government's open consultation on Freight, Logistics, and the Planning System is a crucial chance to address sector frustrations. Advocating for warehouse inclusion in development plans and community education can generate employment and support local economies. The UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) calls on all industry members to shape planning policy and make a difference in the UK economy. Read more?here.
Events and webinars?
Online event : 6?Sept 2023?
Webinar
Register?here?
Live event : 7 Sept 2023?
Howard Tenens Logistics Ltd,?Swindon
Secure your free pass?here?
Live event : 17 Oct 2023?
Houses of Parliament, Parliament Sq, London
Secure your free pass?here?
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