However, there is still a bright light at the end of the tunnel. Despite these forces lurking in the background, there is still a lot of potential to extract in business and industry and new ways to thrive. The Midlands has always been a region that has provided key industry for the UK economy, but due to recent developments mainly in the digital world, the face of some industries is set to undergo a significant facelift.

Manufacturing and Engineering

One industry that has always been at the heart of the Midlands is manufacturing and engineering. Coventry and Warwickshire are known as the epicentres of many aspects of engineering, including automotive, rail, aerospace, and motorsport. The area employs tens of thousands of people, but with the digital dawn currently engulfing the world, manufacturing, and engineering as many know it is due to change, with more digital processes being slowly implemented into everyday operation.

The increased and more efficient use of big data assisted by AI, augmented and virtual reality, and advanced robotics is set to take engineering into a new dimension, which will ultimately increase productivity, while also creating a raft of new opportunities for people in the local area.

Casino

Some might be surprised to read that the casino industry commands a strong presence in the Midlands. Outside of the capital city, Birmingham houses some of the best casinos in the country, with the Genting International Casino regularly appearing in the top five casinos in the UK. While casinos like Genting, and the Grosvenor in Coventry continue to welcome people through their front doors, there is a new branch of casino play developing, again with the aid of digitalisation.

Online casinos are beginning to steal a lot of the limelight away from land-based casinos, with more people involved in the industry quickly realising its potential, and the advantages online casino can offer. Not only are there over 175 online casinos currently licensed in the UK, but many other EU casinos at the Daily Star can be accessed from the UK to supplement the growing industry.

The Gross Gambling Yield (GGY) in 2023 was £4 billion, with the majority generated from online slots games. This figure is only expected to grow exponentially alongside the expected growth in popularity of online casino action, especially once augmented and virtual reality game play is fully implemented. Newly digitalised versions for classic games such as blackjack, roulette, poker, and slots are expected to capture the imagination of more casino enthusiasts and drive more providers to further boost the online casino industry.

FinTech

As another industry gaining more exposure and importance due to the advancements made in digital processes, FinTech professionals, of which there are roughly 11,000 in the Midlands, are shaping the financial future. From mobile banking to peer-to-peer transfers, and even cryptocurrency, companies involved in the financial sector are facing a new wave of innovation to try and implement into their daily systems.

Traditional forms of banking like physically going to a local branch are slowly being banished to the past, with mobile apps and other methods of sending money involving text messages and QR codes featuring more regularly in everyday society. As a result of the increase in this activity, more public and private funds are providing more investment and support for FinTech companies.

This is good news for those involved in this industry, with the Midlands further enhancing its representation in the financial sector following the relocation of HSBC’s headquarters to Birmingham. HSBC were not the only big bank to choose Birmingham as their desired location to base operations. Goldman Sachs also relocated operations to Birmingham in September 2022.

Conclusion

With the world becoming more digital, industries across the board are set for a challenging few years. However, with many looking to embrace the challenge and adopt the digital advances happening almost organically around us, there is a greater emphasis placed on adapting, as opposed to changing.

The post Key Growth Industries for Business at Present in the Midlands appeared first on Midlands Business News.

1. Outdoor Fire Pits  

The use of outdoor curtains particularly in tune with the four season rooms allows for the growth of rich and comfortable atmosphere outside. It provides shade, and acts as a screen where you can spend your time in the garden or patio without the intrusion of neighbors or passersby. When you cover your patio with the curtains, or wrap it around your seated area, then this gives that romantic feeling especially when you are conducting a party or with your closed ones. Some of these fabrics can give a diffused soft warm light through fabrics when placed outside as lights giving your outside space a home like feeling.

2. Improving Small Scale Privacy and Wind Shielding   

The first and possibly the most important benefit for using outdoor curtains is the factor of privacy. Everyone would wish to be free to use their compound at night or during the afternoon in privacy. This type of curtain is perfect for any outdoor living area since they help to create naturally barrier between home and outside environment. Besides, they shield against incidences of wind that are inconveniences for your outdoor events, or even just plain blustery. Outdoor curtain enables you to use the area in comfort without people passing through, as well as protect you from any sudden wind.

3. Appending Style and Aesthetic Value

It is also possible to choose outdoor curtains of various types of colors, patterns, and materials and therefore you can easily select curtains that you prefer for your outdoor setting. There are simple white ones to bright coloured ones and everything in between to suit every lover of curtains. If you want to add some elegance to your garden or patio, installing the outdoor curtains is not only simple, but also economical. They also act as an aesthetical attraction where people can spend most of their time especially during events and other extreme relaxation time.

4. Shelter from the Elements

Practical utility is, perhaps, one of the main benefits of outdoor curtains ; they help protect against rain and wind. Outdoor curtains canvas tarpaulin are an appropriate solution in all weather conditions – rain, sunshine, and other types of precipitation. There are types of curtains that are made of heavy-duty outdoor canvas which can very much survive the harshest of weathers they can cover your patio furniture as well as your belongings through efficient protection out in the open. Equally, tarpaulin curtains can be utilized for creating temporary shelters or shade, roofs with minimum effort, in cases of either a sunny or a rainy day. Outdoor curtaining is a good way to cook – and dine, retire – in the garden, without having to invest in a conservatory or other solid pavilion.

5. Establishing a Flexible Use Area of an Outdoor Nature Site

Outdoor curtains are quite flexible thus making it possible to change the outlook of the outside area to fit the activities to be carried out there. But they can also be used to divide specific areas in your garden or on an outdoor terrace, construct barriers or design an artistic spotlight. Outdoor curtains can also be moved to alter specific moods or styles of living, thus allowing your outdoor atmosphere to fit whichever occasion or mood preferred. No matter whether you are planning to have a reading corner like in the picture above, a bright dining area, or stylish entertaining area, outdoor curtains keep the space comfortable for versatile usage of the living area.

6. It’s time to Connect Functionality with Style   

Apart from offering practical uses, they also help you give your patio the fashionable look it deserves. And given the sheer number of types of outdoor curtains that exist, you can surely find ones that match the rest of the furniture, accessories, and decoration – thus making your outdoor space look like a properly designed living area. Outdoor curtains come in a variety of designs and colors, so if you love the more formal look of the classic white curtain, or the new age sleek and streamlined look white can be achieved in your outdoors curtains. And that is why, seeking fashion along with functionality, outdoor curtain is just what clients need to make their outside areas more convenient and beautiful.

Conclusion  

If you still are hesitant about purchasing outdoor curtains for your garden or patio there are many valid reasons why you should do it. Drawing in comfort, privacy, and weather shield, the curtains made of canvas tarpaulin are the best solution for any open-air living area. Thus outdoor curtains are used for enhancing the style, functionality as well as for durability of your outdoor area and they literally make the outdoor living comfortable and worthy.  

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Trend #1: Personalised Customer Experiences

A report by Forbes reveals that 81% of customers prefer businesses with personalised experiences. Today, many companies offer tailored services to show customers they understand their needs and wants. These businesses analyse customer behavioural trends and tailor their services to meet specific needs.

The online shopping and movie industry is leading, with platforms like YouTube and Netflix providing personalised suggestions. Online gaming has also not been left behind. Hundreds of casino sites offer targeted experiences by analysing players’ past gaming patterns. It’s the new norm these days.

Trend #2: Widespread AI in Business

The AI trend will undoubtedly spill over to the new year. This technological breakthrough has many benefits that can help with business growth. For instance, businesses analyse massive amounts of data and make more assured decisions. AI can also effectively handle menial tasks, significantly reducing operating costs and enhancing efficiency.

Here are a few stats to note:

• 90% of organisations use AI to gain a competitive advantage.
• AI will create 97 million new jobs by 2025 despite eliminating 85 million.
• 63% of businesses plan to adopt AI by the next three years.
• 40% of companies around the world use AI.
• Larger enterprises are two times more likely to embrace AI.

Trend #3: VR (Virtual Reality) and AR (Augmented Reality) in Business

The VR technology has come a long way. These tech wearables have evolved from being nice gaming gadgets to mainstream phenomena in business. A report by Statista suggests that the VR penetration rate could reach 52.8% in 2024. Another report by Grid Raster claims that 91% of companies are using or planning to use it to enhance operations.

VR can be handy in several business departments, including customer service and manufacturing. According to Grid Raster, 53% of businesses already use VR to provide virtual customer visits. This technology can give customers an immersive tour of the company’s services and products. VR can also help with safety training, inspection, and designing models.

Trend #4: Investing in Cybersecurity Systems

Cybersecurity continues to be a global threat, with many businesses investing heavily in this area. A Statista report says that 47% of companies worldwide will increase their cybersecurity budgets. Sadly, that’s a 4% drop compared to 2024. But with new threats powered by AI set to emerge, these numbers will parachute in 2025.

Below is why businesses must invest in cybersecurity systems:

• Protect customer information and confidential company data.
• Avoid financial losses and expensive lawsuits in case of data breaches.
• Enhance safety reputation and build customer trust.
• Compliance with local and international online security standards.

Trend #5: Remote Working Arrangements

The 2019 pandemic changed lots of things, including how employees work. A recent study by the United States Census Bureau shows the number of people who work remotely tripled between 2019 and 2021. Further studies suggest that those who prefer remote working environments want to do so in the coming years.

Working from home will become more common in 2025 as people seek better work-life balance. The tiring commuting hours and travel expenses will also become a thing of the past. For employers, remote working can be a cost-saving idea. Reduced staff turnover means less space and resources. It’s a win-win scenario.

Conclusion

The business landscape is always subject to new changes that every organisation must embrace. Others may include widespread 5G in business settings and crypto payments as an alternative to traditional banking methods. It’s time to embrace these new changes or risk falling behind.

The post Future Outlook: 5 Trends Every Business Must Embrace in 2025 appeared first on Midlands Business News.

Online casino bonuses are just what you might think, they’re bonuses that you receive when you play an online casino game. These have really rocketed the casino market to new heights as players engage with them galady and they’re extremely varied. This article aims to explain the nuances within online casino bonuses and give you better insight into how these agile bonuses have spurred on one of the biggest industries in the Midlands Areas and the greater United Kingdom.

Welcome Bonuses

It all starts with the welcome bonus which is probably the most popular online casino bonus out there. Just as the name implies, this is a bonus that you would receive when you sign up with a new site. Now, ‘you’ doesn’t mean you specifically, as perhaps you’re not a keen punter, however, for those interested in gambling, this is a bonus that they have not only used but used often. Welcome bonuses are particularly popular as they are easy to come by. All you have to do is sign up with a new site and then you will receive a welcome bonus. The bonus itself often comes in different shapes and sizes, however, it’s typically a free spin or free token that you can look forward to. The amount of these free spins and tokens depends completely on the online casino as they have every right to make this as large or small as they want. It’s a good idea for you to research the different options available to you so that you pick the online casino that offers you the most reward.

No Deposit Bonuses

Another bonus that is considered one of the best casino bonuses UK is the no deposit bonus. The reason for this is that you don’t have to put down a deposit to receive this one. This news might seem counter-productive to you and perhaps even too good to be true because which online casino do you know wants to offer their players free bonuses without requiring something in return? Online casino bonuses that are thinking long-term. You see, offering a no deposit bonus is a bit of a strategy from the online casino as they know that if they support you with free tokens and coins whilst you’re low on funds when you make a winning, you’ll stay on their site and continue to play.

Payment Method Bonuses

A further nifty online casino bonus and one that has certainly created a buzz around digital casinos in this modern age is the payment method bonus. You see, online casinos are very smart indeed. They know exactly what is happening around the world and how these changes impact their offering and how they can stay with the times. This is especially noticeable in what they did with payment methods. You see, gone are the days of using traditional banking methods to make payments. Whilst debit and credit cards are still current, many more modern developments have happened over time that have impacted the online gambling world, such as digital wallets or cryptocurrencies. Online casinos prefer these digital payment methods as they come with fewer transaction fees and are instantaneous. Traditional banking transfers or EFTs often take much longer than these digital currencies which is why online casinos offer special payment method bonuses to players who can make payments using digital currencies instead. Rather smart, wouldn’t you agree?

Referral Bonuses

One thing that you might not know about the online casino world is that it is social. A lot more social than you think. During times when a lot of the things that you do are online and not social, such as work, having a space to engage with other people is a welcome change. This is very much the point with online casinos. Nowadays, you can play alongside your friends through digital means. You can all log in at the same time and enjoy a few hours of punting together, which is why online casinos now offer referral bonuses. Again, as mentioned above a few times already, even if you are not a punter, this is still interesting information to you because it’s fascinating to see how this digital entity has managed to become a superpower in this gaming world. For example, with the referral bonus, as a player, you invite a friend over to play and you send them a code. The online casino then registers that this invite code was sent from you, which means that the online casino will give both you and your friend a referral bonus, as a sign of gratitude for getting more players to the game.

Well, there you have it, with features as advanced as online bonuses, it’s easy to see why casinos are such a big powerhouse in today’s digital entertainment market.

The post Interesting Digital Developments in the Midlands Area with Online Casino Gaming appeared first on Midlands Business News.

Embrace Change and Innovation

Change is often met with resistance, yet it can catalyse much-needed innovation. Businesses that embrace change are more likely to discover new processes or products that can elevate their market position. For instance, a local company may pivot towards digital solutions, streamlining operations and improving customer engagement.

Understanding the underlying reasons for change within the industry—such as shifts in consumer preferences or technological advancements—can help leaders make informed decisions. Encouraging a culture that values flexibility and creativity will enable teams to respond effectively to unforeseen challenges. Engaging employees in brainstorming sessions can uncover unique ideas that lead to innovative solutions, ensuring the business remains competitive.

Financial Resilience and Planning

Financial stability is crucial when navigating adverse conditions. A thorough assessment of current financial health should be the first step in any strategic approach. Businesses should review their budgets, cash flow, and expense management practices to identify areas of improvement.

Having a solid financial foundation is essential for those considering future growth strategies like planning a management buyout. This process requires careful consideration of financial projections and valuation methods to ensure that the transition is smooth and beneficial. By involving financial experts early on, businesses can mitigate risks and increase their chances of success during challenging times.

Building Strong Relationships

Networking and collaboration can significantly enhance a business’s ability to weather tough periods. Strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders can provide critical support during unforeseen circumstances. For instance, open lines of communication with suppliers can lead to better deals and more flexible payment terms, easing financial strain.

Additionally, engaging with the local community through partnerships or sponsorships can boost visibility and customer loyalty. Businesses seen as active participants in their community are often more resilient, as they can count on local support during challenging periods. Creating a network of trusted relationships can serve as a safety net, providing resources and support when needed.

Fostering Employee Engagement and Well-being

Employees are the backbone of any organisation, and their well-being directly impacts overall productivity and morale. Fostering an environment prioritising employee engagement can make a significant difference, particularly during challenging periods. Regular check-ins, feedback mechanisms, and professional development opportunities can enhance job satisfaction and reduce turnover.

Promoting a work-life balance can also lead to happier, more productive employees. Providing access to resources such as mental health support or flexible working arrangements can help employees manage stress during tough times. When staff feel valued and supported, they are more likely to contribute positively to problem-solving and innovation, ultimately allowing the business to thrive.

Businesses in the Midlands can effectively navigate adversity by implementing strategic approaches that embrace change, maintain financial resilience, build strong relationships, and foster employee engagement. These methods prepare organisations for current challenges and lay a strong foundation for future growth and success.

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In a speech from Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, the rhetoric was intensely focused on “saving our NHS” and accepting how bad things have become. “From today, the policy of this department is that the NHS is broken” – a clear sign of intent that this Labour government seeks change and won’t hesitate to implement it. Keir Starmer has continued the messaging in public interviews.

Criticism has come Streeting’s and Labour’s way following the claims, but they’re clear that there’s no backing down. Some senior officials in the NHS believe the rhetoric has gone too far, potentially impacting morale and putting people off patients seeking help.

There’s no denying the amazing work done by the NHS and all its members. But are things as bad as the government says they are?

What does the NHS being “broken” actually mean?

It’s not quite as black and white as the terminology suggests. No one area can be fixed or repaired to make all the difference. Instead, it’s a series of metrics, standards and pressures across the NHS that drives this thinking.

Factors such as A&E wait times, treatment waiting lists and staff shortages all influence public health and key healthcare metrics that the NHS is evaluated on. A sizeable backlog is one of the most significant issues – which is largely a lasting consequence of the pandemic.

Different services have their own pain points and challenges. In our region, NHS dentistry across the West Midlands is said to be in crisis. Maternity care across the country has recently been coming under scrutiny for sub-standard services.

The bottom line is that there is growing pressure on a workforce and resources that are more stretched than ever before. The risks of medical negligence and poor patient outcomes become much greater in systems like this. Undoubtedly, if things carry on as they are, there will come a time when the NHS goes beyond disrepair.

What can be done?

Government wording is strong, but their response will ultimately have to match it. Reform is certainly needed. However, implementing this across a national service is far from plain sailing. It will undoubtedly take years and the clock is already ticking for this new leadership group.

More funding, extra capacity to cut waiting lists, different approaches to managing care systems – these are all things they’re likely to try. Let’s see how things look in the next few years.

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While these funds are not currently designated for social housing, Mayor Parker has expressed a strong desire to collaborate with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to unlock the £146m. This move would enable the West Midlands to deliver social housing and provide support to its most vulnerable residents.

In a letter to Rayner, Parker stated, “Officers have already been working closely with local authorities and housing associations across the West Midlands in preparations for taking on a devolved Affordable Homes Programme. As a result of those discussions, it’s clear that they’re ready to help us deliver more social rented homes. Currently, these funds are not focussed on delivering social homes, and given our shared agenda to build more, I would hope that you agree officials should explore unlocking this money so that we can deliver quickly for our community.”

It is estimated that around 2,000 housing units currently under development could be converted into social homes.

The need for affordable housing in the West Midlands is critical, with 20,000 residents living in substandard temporary accommodation and 64,000 households on the social housing waiting lists. Despite the efforts of the WMCA, which has helped build over 7,000 homes—26% of which are affordable—the region has yet to meet its housing targets and intervention rates.

Parker has pledged to build 20,000 new social homes by the end of the decade, addressing the region’s growing housing crisis.

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Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, praised Mr O’Keefe’s contributions, saying, “Kevin has worked with me in realizing the potential of key investment sites, including his work to establish the prestigious Eton College sixth-form college within Dudley, one of only three such sites across the UK, and the establishment of our learning quarter which delivers the Black Country Institute of Technology, the National Very Light Rail innovation centre, and our forthcoming Life Sciences park. We are grateful for the contribution Kevin has made to the council during his tenure as chief executive and wish him all the best for the future and hope he has a very happy retirement.”

Background on Kevin O’Keefe

Mr O’Keefe, 59, joined Dudley Council from Wolverhampton Council, where he was Director of Law and Governance. Before that, he served as the Director of Shared Legal Services at Herefordshire Council.

In recent months, Mr O’Keefe has been busy overseeing the local election and then the general election in Dudley as the authority’s returning officer.

In 2022, he defended the council after it faced criticism for sending a delegation to Cannes, France, for the Mipim property conference. The council was accused of spending around £100,000 for nine delegates to attend the event. Mr O’Keefe argued that attending Mipim was essential for the council’s key decision-makers, and they brought back leads that could result in millions of pounds worth of investment in the borough.

Council’s Current Situation

The council is currently conducting a major review of its operations to overcome severe financial challenges that put it at risk of becoming effectively bankrupt.

Councillor Harley stated, “Arrangements will be made in due course to appoint an interim chief executive to ensure continuity of service delivery, ahead of a process to appoint a permanent chief executive commencing later in the year.”

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