News

Virtue Drinks, the UK’s fastest-growing clean energy drink brand, has announced the successful closure of a £2 million investment round.

This latest funding brings the company’s total investment to over £5 million. Notable investors in this round include James Watt, co-founder of BrewDog—Europe’s largest craft beer brand—and Eberechi Eze, Premier League footballer and England international.

James Watt will take on the role of strategic advisor, providing guidance to Virtue’s founder and CEO, Rahi Daneshmand, on scaling the business globally. Eberechi Eze will actively participate in Virtue’s marketing strategy, aiming to amplify the brand’s presence following the investment. They join existing investor Chris Smalling, former England and Manchester United footballer, along with a group of strategic angel investors.

The infusion of capital will support Virtue’s strategic marketing efforts, global distribution expansion, and team growth. The company plans to enhance brand awareness in the UK, Europe, and beyond, capitalizing on its current presence in over 5,000 stores across 20 countries. Key stockists include Waitrose, Whole Foods Market, Ocado, Morrisons, Motor Fuel Group, Casino, Carrefour, and Spinneys.

Founded in 2016, Virtue offers clean energy drinks made with all-natural ingredients, zero sugar, and zero calories. The beverages are powered by yerba mate, an adaptogen rich in essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. Available in three flavours—Tropical, Peach & Raspberry, and Strawberry & Lime—each can contains 80 milligrams of natural caffeine, equivalent to a cup of coffee or traditional energy drink.

Virtue’s products aim to provide a sustained energy boost that enhances mental focus and physical performance without the crash or jitters associated with traditional energy drinks and coffee. The brand is certified carbon neutral and vegan, aligning with growing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable options.

Rahi Daneshmand, Founder and CEO of Virtue, stated: “We are really excited to partner with Eberechi Eze and James Watt to build the leading clean energy drink brand globally. Their belief in our vision and commitment to our growth emphasises the positive impact we plan to achieve together. As the first all-natural energy drink with zero sugar and zero calories, Virtue is well-positioned to lead the way for clean energy. These partnerships mark the start of an exciting next chapter for Virtue, and we can’t wait for even more people to enjoy our clean energy drinks.”

James Watt added:”It is seldom that I see a drinks brand that genuinely excites me. In Virtue, I found an amazing product led by a brilliant entrepreneur. I am delighted to now be helping them on their growth journey.”

Eberechi Eze concluded: “Virtue is more than just an energy drink to me; it’s a brand I truly believe in. Its clean energy aligns with my lifestyle on and off the pitch. I am excited to be part of a brand that is all about a natural, healthier way to energise.”
With the UK energy drinks market valued at £3.4 billion and expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.20%, Virtue aims to establish clean energy drinks as a major category within the industry.

Read more:
Virtue Drinks Secures £2 Million Investment from BrewDog Co-Founder and England Footballer

Nish Kankiwala, chief executive of the John Lewis Partnership, has accused Chancellor Rachel Reeves of implementing a “two-handed” tax grab on retailers, joining a growing backlash against the recent Budget.

Kankiwala stated that John Lewis faces increased employment costs and higher business rates following the Budget, which could hinder the retailer’s turnaround efforts. “That seems to be sort of [a] two-handed grab, and that’s unhelpful,” he told the Financial Times.

The partnership, which operates John Lewis department stores and Waitrose supermarkets, anticipates spending tens of millions of pounds extra on staff costs after the Chancellor announced an increase in the employers’ National Insurance rate. In the Budget, Ms. Reeves stated that employers’ National Insurance contributions would rise from 13.8% to 15% in April, while also lowering the threshold at which contributions are paid.

Additionally, the Treasury has delayed a planned overhaul of the business rates system until 2026, despite previous pledges to reform how companies are taxed on their properties to support retailers. This delay means that many retailers, including John Lewis, will face higher business rates bills for at least another year.

Kankiwala commented: “If they could delay the National Insurance [changes], but also if they could fundamentally bring forward a radical reshaping of business rates, I think it will make a massive difference—not just for small and medium enterprises, but I think for retail generally. It’s very important.”

The criticism from John Lewis comes after retailers expressed frustration at being blindsided by the changes, having believed that business rates reform would occur sooner. Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury’s, recently stated that the supermarket supported the government’s employment reforms based on a “clear commitment” from ministers to urgently address business rates. “We need business rates reform in order to balance the scales,” he said.

Amid growing tension between the Treasury and retailers, over 80 chief executives wrote to Ms. Reeves last weekend, warning that the sector faces £7 billion in increased costs, making job losses and price rises inevitable.

Kankiwala said the John Lewis Partnership would attempt to avoid raising prices. “The last thing we need is a resurgence of inflation, because we just got that under control, and inflation is not good for anybody,” he added.

In response, Treasury officials reportedly reached out to retailers last week in an effort to ease concerns after learning that companies were planning a public letter criticizing the Budget decisions. The Prime Minister’s spokesman stated they were not aware of any attempts to discourage businesses from signing a letter, adding: “Obviously you’ve seen vast waves of reaction to the Budget, as you do with all fiscal events, and this is no different.”

The Treasury has defended its decisions, arguing that “difficult choices” were necessary in the Budget. A Treasury spokesperson said earlier this week: “By doing this, more than half of employers will either see a cut or no change in their National Insurance bills. There will be £22.6 billion more for the NHS, and workers’ payslips will be protected from higher tax. This government is committed to delivering economic growth by boosting investment and rebuilding Britain.”

Read more:
John Lewis CEO criticises Rachel Reeves over ‘two-handed’ tax increase

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has reported a significant increase in tax receipts, providing a much-needed boost to the government following criticism over the recent budget.

According to leading audit, tax, and business advisory firm Blick Rothenberg, total tax receipts have grown by £24 billion over the past year compared to the previous 12 months.

Tom Goddard, a Senior Associate at Blick Rothenberg, commented: “The total tax receipts continue to grow year on year after a slight blip in August (where they were just under a billion pounds lower than August 2023) with total tax receipts up £24bn over the last year compared to the 12 months prior. This provides some much-needed financial optimism for the government after a tumultuous budget which had many fearing the worst.”

He added: “The total tax collected over the last 12 months is now over £842 billion and getting closer to the £850 billion mark, which will likely be hit in the next month with December traditionally being a good month for revenues.”

Goddard highlighted that Labour’s commitment to increasing the national living wage will further boost HMRC’s highest revenue stream—income tax. “Those increases, and indeed those from the Employers’ National Insurance contributions, won’t, however, filter through until after April 2025,” he noted.

Despite this, there has already been an approximate 8% year-on-year increase in income tax receipts, surpassing the current 2.3% Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) figure, which itself rose by 0.6% in the last month. “Not only are those wages for the UK’s lowest earners going to continue driving this increased tax taking, but Labour’s affirmation that income tax thresholds and the personal allowance will remain frozen until the 2028/29 tax year will continue to drag more and more people into the higher and upper rate tax bands,” Goddard explained.

He also addressed the recent focus on UK inheritance tax, stating: “This tax brings in a relatively modest amount to the total tax take, with the prior 12 months’ total being just shy of £8bn, which is effectively 0.9% of the total HMRC receipts in the same period.”

Goddard added that it will take time before any proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) impact tax revenues. “Changes in those two reliefs won’t come through until April 2026, and Inheritance Tax itself is only payable until the end of the sixth month after the date of death. So, at best, anyone caught by that is not going to show through until the November 2026 figures are released.”

Read more:
Tax revenues rise £24bn, offering government optimism amid budget backlash

The brewing controversy over mis-sold car loans has forced Santander UK to set aside £295 million to potentially compensate aggrieved motor finance customers.

The bank joins a small but growing list of lenders that have started to make provisions for the growing scandal, which some analysts believe could leave the car loans industry footing a redress bill of as much as £30 billion.

Santander UK’s move takes the total amount earmarked by firms for compensation costs so far to just under £1 billion. This includes £450 million set aside in February by Lloyds Banking Group, a leading player in the vehicle finance market.

Expectations that lenders will be forced to redress borrowers en masse have been growing ever since the Financial Conduct Authority (FCU), the regulator, this year began a wide-ranging review into potentially unfair commissions in motor finance deals.

A landmark Court of Appeal judgment last month has significantly expanded the scope of the potential problem facing the industry, fuelling speculation that banks and the lending arms of car manufacturers face a crisis akin to the £50 billion payment protection insurance scandal.

The court ruling was the trigger for Santander UK’s provision, which was disclosed in its third-quarter figures.

The lender was originally due to publish its results in late October but delayed the release at the last moment to consider the ramifications of the surprise court judgment.

It said on Wednesday that it had decided to set aside money “in light” of the ruling and that £295 million encompassed “estimates for operational and legal costs, including litigation costs, and potential awards”. It cautioned, however, that there were “significant uncertainties as to the extent of any misconduct, if any” and that “the ultimate financial impact could be materially higher or lower than the amount provided”.

Analysts at S&P, the credit rating agency, said the development “illustrates the potential size of affected lenders’ liabilities” over motor finance.

The provision contributed to a sharp fall in Santander UK’s pre-tax profits to £143 million in the three months to the end of September, from £558 million a year earlier.

It is a blow to the bank, which is the British division of Santander, Spain’s biggest lender. Santander UK is one of several lenders that has seen a rise in customer complaints and county court claims over car loans since the FCA banned discretionary commissions in motor finance in early 2021.

Commissions are paid by lenders to car dealers for arranging loans. Some firms used discretionary arrangements, where commissions were tied to the interest borrowers paid on their loans. The authority banned them over concerns that the arrangements encouraged the sale of more expensive credit.

The jump in consumer complaints about these commissions in recent years prompted the watchdog to start an inquiry in January into discretionary arrangements struck as far back as April 2007. The broad scope of the continuing review stoked speculation that lenders might be forced to compensate customers, expectations that have been further fuelled by last month’s court judgment.

The ruling is significant because it applies to all types of motor finance commission, not just discretionary arrangements. The court found that any commission that was not properly disclosed to a borrower, or consented to, was unlawful and it decided that lenders were liable to repay the money to consumers.

This sent shockwaves through the car loans industry because it set a much higher threshold for disclosure and consent than had previously been required by regulation. Several lenders temporarily suspended their motor finance operations while they overhauled their procedures to ensure they were compliant with the ruling, causing chaos in the market.

The industry is now waiting for the Supreme Court to give its view on the matter. Close Brothers and FirstRand, the lenders at the centre of the cases considered by the Court of Appeal, have said that they intend to appeal to the UK’s highest court. The FCA wants the Supreme Court to “decide quickly” whether it will grant permission to appeal.

The crisis gripping the car loans market “exemplifies” problems with the Financial Conduct Authority’s approach to regulation, the head of the motor finance trade body has told peers.

Stephen Haddrill, the director-general of the Finance & Leasing Association, said a Court of Appeal ruling last month on the disclosure of commissions paid by lenders to credit brokers — mainly car dealers — arranging motor finance showed that there “hasn’t been clarity in the regulation about what should be made transparent”.

He told the House of Lords financial services regulation committee: “A lack of certainty is exemplified by what we’ve seen around motor finance in the last few weeks, in particular the inconsistency between the law and regulation.”

In 2019, following a lengthy review by the FCA of the motor finance market, the authority decided against a big overhaul of its disclosure requirements to force firms to be explicit with borrowers about commission amounts. It said at the time that “we doubt whether such changes would result in a significant change in behaviour” and added: “Consumers are unlikely to engage with detailed explanations of complex commission models.”

Yet the court in October ruled that “secret” and partially disclosed commissions in motor finance were unlawful. This mis-match between common law and the FCA’s rules is at the heart of the current turmoil in the car loans market and potentially paves the way for a flood of consumer compensation.

Asked by the committee on Wednesday about “secret” commissions in the industry, Haddrill replied: “Why did the FCA allow it to continue?”

His criticisms echo comments made by Sir Howard Davies, the former chairman of the FCA’s predecessor body, the Financial Services Authority, who told the committee last month: “I am disappointed that there has not been sufficient regulatory clarity on the rulebook, which has meant that the court has been able to step in with its own interpretation.”

A spokesman for the regulator said: “We are aware of the impact that the Court of Appeal judgement has had on firms and the market in general.”

More broadly, the FCA has been criticised by some in the City in recent years over what some consider to be an overzealous approach to regulation. Rachel Reeves, the chancellor, used her first Mansion House Speech to City grandees a week ago to argue that rules brought in since the 2007-09 financial crisis had “gone too far”.

Haddrill said there was “a surfeit of complexity” and told peers: “We feel that the regulatory regime at the moment is not conducive to lending”.

Anthony Coombs, the chairman of motor finance company S&U, which has drawn scrutiny from the FCA, also appeared before peers and said: “The FCA is not fit for purpose, at least as far as our sector is concerned. It is oppressive, it is deterring investment in the industry, it is inconsistent, and gradually it is smothering our section of the financial services market.”

Read more:
Santander UK sets aside £295m for car finance scandal

The price of bitcoin soared to a record high of $94,839, extending a rally that has seen its value surge by nearly 40% since Donald Trump’s re-election victory.

The digital currency, worth $7,333 five years ago, has benefited from optimism surrounding a potentially crypto-friendly regulatory environment during Trump’s second term.

Once a sceptic of cryptocurrencies, Trump has pledged to transform the US into “the crypto capital of the planet” and establish a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. His campaign actively accepted cryptocurrency donations, and he engaged with crypto enthusiasts at a bitcoin conference in July. Trump has also launched World Liberty Financial, a venture with family members focused on cryptocurrency trading.

Trump’s victory has prompted Republicans to invite crypto leaders to Washington for discussions on a new crypto policy framework. Industry executives are hopeful that Trump will deliver on promises to enact legislative and regulatory changes, including his commitment to remove Gary Gensler, the chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), who has been spearheading the government’s crackdown on cryptocurrencies.

Stéphane Ouellette, CEO of crypto trading firm FRNT Financial, commented: “Trump’s seeming interest to push further into crypto on a personal level has contributed to optimism that crypto will be a top priority when Trump takes office.”

US bitcoin exchange-traded products have also seen a boost, with $4.2 billion in inflows since Trump’s victory—accounting for 15% of total inflows since these products launched on US stock exchanges earlier this year.

Chris Weston, head of research at Australian broker Pepperstone, noted the potential for further growth: “Another kick higher should bring in a fresh chase from those who like to buy what’s strong.”

The crypto community is cautiously optimistic about Trump’s pro-crypto stance, seeing it as an opportunity to solidify the US as a global hub for digital currencies. However, critics warn that bitcoin’s notorious volatility and speculative nature may present risks for both investors and broader economic stability.

Bitcoin, created in 2008 by the mysterious figure Satoshi Nakamoto, has no physical form and was initially worth almost nothing. Over the years, its adoption and popularity have grown, though its price remains highly volatile. With Trump’s endorsement and promises of a supportive policy environment, the cryptocurrency has found fresh momentum.

Read more:
Bitcoin hits record $94,000 as trump vows to make us ‘crypto capital’

The social media advertising space is highly saturated with hundreds and thousands of brands vying to secure greater visibility and maximum conversions.

Facebook allows advertisers to connect with over 2.9 billion active users each month, offering an unmatched lead generation and user engagement potential across social media.

Despite this striking potential, the Meta advertising experience is marred with innumerable ad restrictions that make scaling impossible for most brands. Facebook ad restrictions can prove immensely overwhelming for brands eager to increase their ad spend for higher ROIs and advertising gains.

Switching to Facebook agency accounts becomes a necessity for advertisers managing campaigns for multiple clients without restrictions disrupting their campaign performance. Read on to explore the role of Facebook agency ad accounts in navigating ad restrictions to support streamlined campaign management.

Navigating Facebook Ad Restrictions

Businesses invest in Facebook advertising to achieve broader goals: generating brand awareness and high-quality leads for revenue growth. However, setting up an ad campaign alone isn’t enough to achieve these goals. Meta maintains a strictly regulated and closely monitored advertising space across Facebook and Instagram.

Each ad is diligently reviewed before approval and publishing, and the Meta support team also closely monitors the activities of advertisers using Facebook Advertising accounts. It’s common for ads to get rejected due to copyright infringement or violations of Meta’s advertising guidelines. Once an ad is rejected, the ad account is slammed with multiple restrictions, limiting the advertiser’s ability to create and publish new campaigns.

These restrictions limit ad spend, delay the campaign review process and often prevent advertisers from using certain placements, ad types and tools. Meta maintains that this stringent review and monitoring process is crucial in protecting its advertising space and users from misinformation and poor advertising experiences.

Facebook ad restrictions include:

Daily spending limits that restrict campaign performance and user engagement.
Restrictions on using certain features and tools.
Restrictions on advertising on Facebook and other Meta platforms.

In many cases, advertisers struggle with restrictions while managing campaigns for multiple clients or technical errors that lead to temporary or permanent restrictions. Advertisers navigating these frustrating restrictions must consider upgrading with specialized Facebook agency accounts to unlock unlimited spending and enjoy a restriction-free advertising experience.

Scaling Campaigns with Facebook Agency Accounts

Specialized Facebook agency ad accounts are born out of a privileged relationship between Meta and reputable advertising agencies. Unlike regular accounts, these accounts are equipped with a range of cutting-edge tools and recent algorithm updates to empower advertisers with new technologies and features.

Upgrading with Facebook agency accounts allows marketers to bypass all restrictions and map out an unrestricted scaling pathway to achieve their advertising targets. Planning and managing multiple campaigns becomes easier when the algorithm is designed to optimize ads for higher user engagement and maximum conversions.

Efficient & Effective Campaign Management

Imagine running multiple campaigns for various clients with a regular Facebook ad account that imposes a stringent daily ad spend limit and denies access to various tools. The process is bound to be frustrating because these regular ad accounts aren’t designed to serve agencies and marketers. In contrast, dedicated Facebook agency accounts offer streamlined dashboards and a wealth of automated tools to support effective and efficient campaign management.

Meta is continually updating its algorithm and these Facebook agency accounts are the first to be updated, allowing agencies access to innovative features and practices. This allows advertisers to capture the right audiences at the right time by securing the most impactful ad placements. Marketers can partner with reputable and competent agencies and benefit from their specialized expertise while ensuring their ad spend secures the highest ROIs.

Optimize your Ad Spend to Supercharge Performance

A higher ad spend allows advertisers to run high-performing ad campaigns that secure greater conversions and website visits. While higher spending is not a guaranteed formula for success, it is an integral element to tap into a broader audience. A low ad spend leads to underperforming campaigns with minimal user interaction.

Once you’ve finished your daily ad spend, Meta will stop showing your ads to their intended audience. Facebook agency accounts allow marketers to supercharge campaign performance with a monthly ad spend that exceeds 100M, giving them complete control over their scaling goals. Advertisers can optimize their ad spend based on their underlying goals and campaign plan. Meta’s daily ad spend is a major restriction that doesn’t allow marketers to optimize their ads effectively.

For instance, spending restrictions limit audience selection and prevent marketers from selecting coveted ad placements that ensure higher user engagement. Facebook agency ad accounts come with an unlimited ad spend, offering greater control on data management, audience selection and user engagement.

Advertisers can spend more to create multiple lookalike audiences and tap into new customers to grow their brands.

Bypass Restrictions & Blocking Issues

Being permanently blocked from using a Facebook Advertising account is an advertiser’s worst nightmare, for once you’ve been blocked from the platform, there’s no way to reverse it. Aside from temporary and permanent blocking issues, marketers navigate a wide host of restrictions that restrain creativity and limit their control.

Specialized Facebook agency accounts are designed to bypass all blocking issues and restrictions, empowering marketers with creative independence and greater control. When you partner with a reputable agency, you gain a reliable partner to help you navigate restrictions and unblock your advertising account without having to set up a new account.

Even if ads or campaigns are slammed with restrictions, Facebook agency accounts are equipped with features to eliminate these issues without disrupting campaign performance. Advertisers can relaunch blocked or restricted campaigns within seconds. When dealing with limitations or upcoming updates, marketers can rely on 24/7 agency support to mitigate issues before they disrupt campaign performance.

Final Thoughts

Marketers are accountable for ensuring their client’s advertising investment leads to tangible results, such as revenue growth, new customer acquisition and greater online visibility. Facebook agency accounts support data-driven advertising and offer access to a 1000 data-points algorithm designed to supercharge lead generation and conversions.

Facebook agency ad accounts are the ultimate solution to tap into the full potential of Meta advertising and enjoy a restriction-free pathway to convert maximum leads. Marketers can monitor real-time results while scaling their ad campaigns to connect with consumers worldwide.

Read more:
Navigating Ad Restrictions: The Role of Facebook Agency Accounts in Large-Scale Campaign Management

Museums and galleries are often seen as cultural treasures, places where history, art, and science are preserved for future generations.

However, their value extends far beyond their cultural significance. These institutions have a profound economic impact, driving tourism, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses.

Across the globe, cities and nations are beginning to realize the full potential of investing in cultural assets. Museums and galleries are no longer seen only as cultural symbols; they are economic powerhouses that can transform communities.

Boosting Local Economies

Tourism is the most visible way museums and galleries contribute to the economy. Iconic institutions like the Louvre in Paris or the British Museum in London attract millions of visitors annually. These tourists buy more than entry tickets, they spend money on hotels, restaurants, transport, and shopping. This spending ripples through local economies, benefiting a wide range of businesses.

Museums and other cultural facilities can also be crucial in smaller cities by drawing visitors from the exterior. For example, cities with lesser-known galleries often see increased foot traffic during special exhibitions or exceptional events. Local businesses, from cafés to gift shops, thrive on this influx of people.

Museums are major economic contributors. Running a museum requires a diverse team, from curators and security staff to marketing professionals and maintenance workers. Renovations, exhibit installations, and daily operations also create opportunities for local suppliers and contractors and contribute to a region’s economic dynamism.

Creating Lasting Economic Stability

As said before, the financial benefits of museums and galleries don’t stop at ticket sales. These institutions improve the overall appeal of cities and regions, creating attractiveness for potential residents and companies. A vibrant cultural scene often draws professionals and families looking for a high quality of life. This, in turn, helps local economies by increasing demand for housing, schools, and services. It is also an important source of increase in land value.

The cultural sector is a significant part of the UK’s economy. Art institutions contribute nearly 5% of GDP, according to recent reports. This figure highlights how important these organizations are, not just for their cultural contributions but as pillars of economic stability.

Generating a Positive Social Impact

Museums and galleries also invest in education and outreach programs. These initiatives benefit local communities by offering workshops, lectures, and other diverse activities. Schools often partner with museums to introduce students to art and enhance their educational programs. These collaborations help foster a sense of pride and engagement in the local community.

Cultural outreach also makes regions more appealing to investors. Companies often choose to establish headquarters or offices in cities with vibrant cultural offerings, as they offer a better lifestyle for the employees and their families. This creates a cycle of economic growth, where cultural investments lead to business growth and vice versa.

Qatar: The Modern Example

Qatar is a standout example of how cultural investment can drive economic development. Over the past two decades, the country has strategically developed its cultural sector to diversify its economy.

The National Museum of Qatar, designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, is a testament to this vision. Opened in 2019, the museum is more than a cultural landmark; it’s a key part of Qatar’s economic strategy. Indeed, the country relies on a new public image to continue fostering investment in various sectors so that it can thrive without depending on oil.

In addition to individual museums, Qatar has implemented large-scale cultural initiatives like the Years of Culture program. This annual initiative promotes cultural exchange with other nations, fostering international partnerships. Beyond bringing in tourists, scholars, and artists, Years Of Culture is a great occasion to develop solid bonds with foreign countries and extend the diplomatic influence of Qatar.

Qatar’s success shows that cultural investments can yield significant returns, which are not only financial. The country demonstrates how to use culture as a tool for economic growth while strengthening its national identity.

What Lessons for Other Nations ?

Qatar’s approach offers valuable examples for other nations looking to leverage their cultural assets. Investing in museums and galleries can transform economies, particularly in regions that may not traditionally bet on tourism, and create a stronger sense of unity around shared heritages.

Moreover, costly development planning is not always useful, especially when it is possible to start by building or enhancing existing cultural facilities. Developing partnerships with schools, universities, and local businesses can help expand the reach of these organizations to a broader public. Governments can also support cultural programs that engage diverse communities and ensure that museums are accessible to all.

Investing in culture does not come without challenges and risks. Museums require significant funding to maintain operations and develop new exhibits. However, the long-term economic, social, and historical benefits often outweigh these costs.

Final thoughts

Museums are not just about preserving the past, they are investments in the future, which is even more the case with art galleries. They generate revenue, create jobs, and enrich communities. Their impact is felt far beyond their walls, influencing everything from tourism to education and urban development.

As cities and nations are always looking for ways to improve their economic model, cultural investment should be a priority. By funding museums and galleries, governments and businesses can unlock significant economic potential.

Read more:
Are museums and galleries vectors of Economic Growth?

Migrating BizTalk systems is a complex process that can significantly impact business operations if not carefully managed.

Companies rely heavily on BizTalk for various integrations and business workflows, making it essential to minimize disruptions during migration. Whether you’re looking to update, re-platform, or migrate entirely, ensuring business continuity is vital to maintain smooth operations and customer satisfaction. In this guide, we explore strategies and best practices to approach a BizTalk migration effectively while keeping business continuity at the forefront.

Why Business Continuity is Essential During a BizTalk Migration

Business continuity is the lifeline of any organization, especially during critical infrastructure changes like a BizTalk migration. BizTalk serves as a backbone for integrations, connecting various systems, applications, and data across an enterprise. Any disruption in these processes can lead to costly downtime, impact customer satisfaction, and even risk the loss of sensitive information. Therefore, maintaining continuity is essential to avoid interruptions that could ripple across all areas of the business.

Migrating from BizTalk can be challenging due to the complexity of the system’s integrations and the business-critical data it manages. To maintain operational stability, companies need to approach migration with a carefully crafted strategy that emphasizes business continuity at every stage. By ensuring seamless transitions and minimizing disruptions, organizations can not only safeguard ongoing processes but also position themselves for enhanced functionality and agility post-migration.

Understanding the Challenges of BizTalk Migration

Migrating BizTalk poses specific challenges due to its complex, interconnected architecture. Here are some common obstacles organizations face when planning a BizTalk migration:

data and system Integration complexity: BizTalk manages a multitude of integrations across various systems, from CRM and ERP to other mission-critical applications. This intricate web of connections means that even a minor error can disrupt workflows and compromise data integrity;
compatibility issues: migrating BizTalk may require reconfiguration or replacement of legacy systems that aren’t compatible with modern platforms. This process requires careful planning and testing to ensure each component functions smoothly post-migration;
risk of downtime: unplanned downtime during migration can halt critical operations, affecting everything from supply chains to customer service. Minimizing downtime requires a structured approach to migration that considers backup systems and failover plans;
Data Security concerns: BizTalk migrations can expose sensitive data to potential vulnerabilities. Without robust security measures in place, the migration could increase the risk of data breaches or compliance issues.

Each of these challenges underscores the importance of working with experts in BizTalk consulting, migration and integrations. These professionals bring the experience needed to navigate complex migrations and help minimize risk at every phase.

Steps to Ensure Business Continuity During BizTalk Migration

A smooth BizTalk migration requires a strategic approach that focuses on preempting potential disruptions and maintaining business continuity. Below are key steps that organizations should take to ensure a seamless transition.

Pre-Migration Planning and Assessment

The first step in a successful BizTalk migration is a thorough assessment of the existing infrastructure and business processes. This involves mapping out all BizTalk integrations, identifying critical data flows, and determining potential compatibility issues with the target environment. By understanding the full scope of the migration, companies can address risks proactively and establish priorities based on business impact.

A comprehensive assessment should also identify any legacy systems that may need modernization or replacement. Early detection of these elements enables better planning and reduces the chance of unexpected roadblocks.

Developing a Migration Roadmap with Risk Management Strategies

Creating a structured roadmap is essential for guiding the migration process. This roadmap should break down the project into manageable phases, each with clearly defined milestones, objectives, and timelines. Additionally, a roadmap should include a risk management strategy that addresses:

business-critical systems;
failover and recovery plans;
compliance and security requirements.

By setting up a roadmap with embedded risk management, organizations can navigate the migration process in a controlled manner, reducing the likelihood of disruptions and ensuring that business operations remain uninterrupted.

Selecting BizTalk Migration Tools and Technologies

Choosing the right migration tools and technologies is critical for a successful BizTalk migration. The tools selected should align with the specific needs of the business, from data handling requirements to integration complexity. Leveraging advanced migration tools can automate parts of the process, streamline integrations, and help maintain data accuracy.

Partnering with experts in BizTalk consulting, migration and integrations can help in selecting tools best suited for the business’s unique needs. Professional consultants bring insight into the latest technologies and can recommend solutions that optimize performance while minimizing disruption.

Role of Experts in BizTalk Consulting for a Smooth Migration

Navigating a BizTalk migration requires specialized knowledge to ensure continuity and optimize processes. Engaging experts in BizTalk consulting, migration, and integrations can significantly reduce the risk of downtime, data loss, and security issues, making the migration smoother and more cost-effective. These consultants bring the technical expertise and strategic insight needed to align the migration with business objectives while addressing the complexities unique to each environment.

Benefits of Engaging Experienced BizTalk Consultants

Experienced BizTalk consultants offer invaluable support throughout the migration process. Some key benefits include:

in-depth technical expertise: BizTalk consultants possess extensive knowledge of BizTalk architecture, integrations, and configurations, allowing them to foresee and address potential challenges before they impact operations;
customized migration strategies: consultants analyze the specific needs of the business to develop a tailored migration plan that accounts for the organization’s unique processes, systems, and goals;
reduced downtime and operational disruptions: with proper planning and execution, consultants can minimize downtime, keeping mission-critical systems online and ensuring business continuity;
compliance and security assurance: experienced consultants help implement best practices in data security and compliance, safeguarding sensitive information throughout the migration process.

By partnering with a skilled consulting team, companies can enhance their ability to manage complex BizTalk environments and transition smoothly to a new system.

How Consulting Services Help Customize Migration for Your Business Needs

Every organization has unique business processes and IT requirements, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach to BizTalk migration often falls short. BizTalk consulting services offer the flexibility to customize migration plans based on the specific needs of each business. Here’s how consulting services can add value:

business process alignment: consultants work closely with internal teams to ensure that the new system supports existing business processes or enables improvements where possible. This alignment helps avoid operational hiccups post-migration;
ongoing support and training: beyond the technical migration, BizTalk consultants often provide training for internal teams, ensuring they are comfortable with the new system and capable of managing future adjustments;
scalability and future-proofing: consultants help design the migrated infrastructure with scalability in mind, preparing the system to support future growth and adapt to changing business needs without significant overhauls.

Read more:
Maintaining business continuity during BizTalk migration – how to approach this?

In a world that’s a whirlwind of responsibilities, ambitions and uncertainty, finding clarity and purpose can feel like a massive challenge.

That’s where life coaching comes in as a guiding light and transformation. Not a trend, life coaching is a scientifically proven practice that has helped thousands of people overcome obstacles, grow personally and achieve their full potential.

Let’s explore the power of life coaching, its methods, and why working with an experienced coach like Jake Smolarek, one of the top Life Coaches in London, UK, could be a game changer for you.

How Life Coaching Goes Beyond Advice: A Profession Built for Transformation

Unlike therapy or mentoring, life coaching is about practical strategies to move you forward. While therapy digs into past experiences to heal emotional wounds, life coaching is future focused. It uses techniques like goal setting, visualization and accountability to empower individuals. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) says 99% of clients find life coaching beneficial, 96% would do it again.

This isn’t just a feel good exercise; neuroscience backs the effectiveness of goal oriented coaching. Research shows that setting clear goals activates the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine – a neurochemical that drives motivation and persistence. A skilled coach knows how to harness this natural mechanism and guide clients to achieve extraordinary results.

Challenging Limiting Beliefs: Why Even High Achievers Get Life Coaching

“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” This quote from Franklin D. Roosevelt sums it up perfectly: our beliefs shape our reality. A core principle of life coaching is to challenge the thoughts and assumptions that hold us back. By identifying and reframing limiting beliefs clients can rewrite their internal story and open up new possibilities.

Take Bob Proctor, a life coach and personal development giant, whose work was all about mindset transformation. His methods have helped thousands break free from self imposed limitations. And Jake Smolarek, a life coach known for his gentle yet piercing approach, helps clients dismantle mental barriers and find their way back to their greatness.

The Accountability Factor: How Life Coaching Makes Progress Inevitable

One of the most underutilized benefits of life coaching is accountability. Research from the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) shows that having an accountability partner increases the chances of achieving goals by 65%. Sharing your goals with a coach not only increases your commitment but also ensures progress.

A life coach is not a cheerleader; they are your strategic partner. Whether it’s weekly check-ins or structured feedback, they hold you accountable for the actions you say you’ll take. Imagine having a partner who is as invested in your success as you are – this dynamic creates massive momentum.

Changing Your Thinking: How Life Coaching Challenges and Expands Your Mind

Albert Einstein said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” Life coaching is great at offering new perspectives. Coaches challenge existing assumptions, help clients see things from different angles. This mental stretch often leads to big breakthroughs.

Mel Robbins, author of the 5-Second Rule, talks about how small mindset shifts can create massive change. A skilled coach can help you identify mental blind spots and come up with solutions you never would have thought of. Working with someone like Jake Smolarek makes this process as enjoyable as it is transformational.

Busting the Cost Myth: Is Life Coaching Worth the Investment?

One of the biggest objections to life coaching is cost. While some coaches charge top dollar—hundreds or thousands per hour—there are ways to make coaching more affordable.

Group Coaching: Many coaches offer group sessions, reducing individual cost while maintaining value.
Sliding Scale or Payment Plans: Some coaches, including Jake Smolarek, offer flexible pricing to fit different budgets.
Pro Bono or Low-Cost: New coaches often offer services at reduced rates during their training phase.

As Henry David Thoreau so beautifully put it, “The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.” Investing in a life coach is an investment in a more abundant and fulfilling life.

Finding the Right Life Coach: What to Look for in Your Guide to Growth

The connection you have with your coach is the key to the relationship. Beyond qualifications and experience, look for someone whose values match yours and whose coaching style matches your personality. Jay Shetty has talked about the importance of empathy and trust in the coaching dynamic.

Working with Jake Smolarek, a well-respected life coach, means you get personalized guidance from someone who is invested in your growth. His open and authentic approach sets him apart in the coaching world.

The benefits of life coaching are as unique as the individual. From better mental health to career advancement, the results are real and often life-shifting. Clients get more self-awareness, better decision making and a sense of direction.

When you work with a seasoned life coach like Jake Smolarek, you go beyond goal setting. It’s about finding yourself and creating a life that matches your deepest desires.

Famous Words to Live By

Use these quotes to guide your journey of growth and self-discovery:

“Your life does not get better by chance; it gets better by change.” – Jim Rohn
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” – Maya Angelou
“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Life coaching is not just an industry, it’s a change agent. Whether you’re in a tough transition, wanting to grow or seeking clarity, a good life coach can show you the way. Go for it—your future self will.

Read more:
Unleash Your Greatness: The Life Coaching Revolution

Choosing the right CRM system is essential when small businesses are eager to improve customers’ interactions and optimize processes.

Given the vast selection that is available to businesses today, it becomes rather important to determine which of the available CRM solutions offer the best features, at the most reasonable price, and with the optimal scalability. A good CRM selection can increase customer relations, sales, and overall small business development.

Here are the best CRM choices for small businesses:

vcita

All-in-one CRM vcita is designed specifically for small businesses. It offers features such as customer relationship management, scheduling, invoicing, and marketing automation in one platform. With its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing plans, vcita is a popular choice among small business owners.

Some of the key features of vcita include:

      Contact management: Easily manage all customer information, interactions, and notes in one place.
      Online scheduling: Allow customers to schedule appointments or book services online through a customizable booking page.
      Invoicing and payments: Generate professional invoices and receive online payments directly from the platform.
      Marketing automation: Create automated email campaigns to engage with customers and nurture leads.
      Mobile app: Access the platform on-the-go with its mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

Zoho CRM

Another recommended CRM software for small businesses is the Zoho CRM. Some of the tools include lead and contact management, sales forecasting, and auto email marketing, among others. Zoho CRM offers a simple and easy-to-navigate platform and the cost structure fits even the smallest business.

Some key features of Zoho CRM include:

Lead and contact management: Leads and contacts can be managed on a single platform or page with all of the necessary information about the individual.
Sales forecasting: Employ the use of artificial intelligence to forecast the future trends of sales.
Email marketing: It is time to use personalized emails to continue communication with customers and warm up the leads.
Workflow automation: Information should be managed to reduce redundancy as much as possible, and to avoid repetitive work.
Social media management: It is necessary to track the activity on social networks and communicate with clients on different social networks.
Mobile app: Experience the complete Zoho CRM at your fingertips with a mobile app for iPhone and Android.

HubSpot

HubSpot is a known CRM software that offers several features to support the development of small companies. Some of the elements include contact management, lead tracking, emailing, social media integration, and many others. This plan is free, and the paid versions are relatively cheap, especially given that HubSpot is an all-in-one tool for SMBs.

Some key features of HubSpot include:

Contact management: Store customer interactions, deals, and tasks all in one system that is easy to use and update.
Lead tracking: Maintain a record of the website visitors and leads to know the patterns of the people who are interested in the website.
Email marketing: Design and launch targeted and drip email marketing messages to customers.
Social media management: Coordinate all the social media profiles, and plan the content you want to share in one tool.
Sales pipeline management: Keep tabs on deals, tasks, and progress in the pipelines that suit your needs best.
Reporting and analytics: Turn to real-time data that will help to monitor your performance and make practical decisions.

Pipedrive

Pipedrive is a CRM system that has earned its place due to its minimalism and ease of use. Some of its facets include contacts and deals, email, and sales reports. It will best suit small businesses or teams that do not want to get involved in the complex configurations of the application.

Some key features of Pipedrive include:

Contact and deal management: Organize contacts and deals in a visual pipeline view so that the status of each contact can be easily viewed.
Email integration: The information can be brought into Pipedrive from various email accounts to ensure all client communication is in one place.
Sales reporting: Obtain actual information concerning sales volume in order to determine the efficiency and inefficiency of your sales systems.
Customizable dashboards: Develop individual clinically relevant summary screens that contain specific data to monitor and make management decisions.
Team collaboration: This way one can assign tasks, share notes, and work with other members of the team to make sales easier.
Integrations: Connect Pipedrive with other business tools such as Google Apps, Mailchimp, and Trello for a seamless workflow.

Monday.com

Monday.com is a CRM and project management software that is built on the concept of boards to handle leads, contacts, deals, and tasks. It has a customizable pipeline, automation, and communication tools. Monday.com CRM is perfect for businesses of different scales and types that need a multifunctional and easy-to-use tool.

Some key features of Monday.com include:

Customizable pipelines: Create custom workflows and pipelines to fit your specific sales process.
Automation: Automate repetitive tasks and streamline processes with automated actions based on triggers.
Communication tools: Use built-in communication tools such as updates, comments, and tagging to collaborate with team members.
Advanced reporting: Access detailed reports on team performance, deal progress, and more to track and improve sales efforts.
Integrations: Monday.com offers integrations with popular tools like Salesforce, Jira, and Slack for a seamless workflow.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, CRM systems are essential for businesses to manage and nurture their relationships with customers. Each of the above-mentioned CRMs offers unique features and capabilities that cater to different business needs. Some may be more suitable for small businesses, while others may be better suited for larger organizations. It’s important to carefully evaluate your business requirements and goals before selecting a CRM system. With the right CRM in place, you can enhance customer satisfaction, improve sales efficiency, and ultimately drive business growth.

Read more:
Top CRM Software for Small Businesses