The growing trend for recycling has spurred a hand-me-down culture that no longer has stigma attached to it, but gNappies, the purveyor of the hybrid nappy, urges parents to think beyond clothing or nursery equipment when considering suitable items to pass on.

Clothes swapping and recycling has become not just necessary or accepted but an embraced solution – both to facilitate cost savings and bring eco-benefits, and now parents can pass on their eco-friendly efforts by handing down gNappies - a hybrid system combining cloth nappy with disposable element - passing them on to friends or from first child to second, making the initial investment even more cost-effective.

gNappies president Kim Graham-Nye, who founded the company with husband Jason, said: “When you plan to have more than one baby it makes sense to save any costly items and clothes, as the parents among us know how quickly children grow. In addition, the popularity of clothes swapping parties means parents often pass items on to friends who may be expecting a child.

“Over the average timespan of nappy-wearing, non-disposables work out cost-effectively anyway, however, parents considering shunning disposable nappies can be further assured that their initial investment in a hybrid nappy system is a sensible one as the reusable pants and cloth inserts can be used again if more babies are planned. The gNappies little gPants come in a variety of colours and patterns that are not just functional items to pass down but also super-cute! They can be used with either gCloth inserts or biodegradable gRefills, offering the option to combine reusable and disposable for the best of both worlds.”

gNappies is the world’s first hybrid system; gRefills offer the disposable element as they can be home-composted or thrown away in the domestic waste, and gCloths offer the reusable element as they are washable.

Kim started gNappies after learning that conventional disposable nappies are the third largest contributors to landfills in the world despite only five per cent of the population using them. Wanting to make a change, Kim and husband Jason developed gNappies – a system made up of washable cotton nappy pant and either 100 per cent biodegradable gRefills or a washable gCloth. Disposable nappies take up to 500 years to decompose, whereas gRefills decompose in 50 – 100 days in home compost and can also be disposed of in domestic waste.

Kim added: “What could be greener than not only investing in eco-friendly nappies, but passing it on to create even less waste. Many parents aspire to care more for the environment, usually as a result of the concern for the future of the planet and their child – and using gNappies can make a real difference to the planet and the reduction of landfill waste.”

gNappies are available in all colours, patterns and sizes, including gBundles to get parents started, at www.gnappies.co.uk, and also www.amazon.co.uk....

Research is a fundamental part of public relations and, in particular, peoples’ opinions assist in telling a story; decreased budgets mean that PR agencies are using do-it-yourself survey software for consumer research more than ever before to create news but they must ensure enough people are polled to make the research valid, says global provider of market research tools, Cint....

In today's economic climate, consumers are becoming increasingly more financially savvy and cautious about where they spend their hard earned money. As a result, car dealers need to capitalise on every possible sales opportunity, and ensuring that the battery is fully charged, in a healthy condition and able to start the engine first time should be part of a daily maintenance routine, says CTEK, a leading global brand in battery charging, care and maintenance....

• 62% of consumers are more likely to purchase a product if their opinion has been sought by brand
• Nine in ten prefer to undertake market research via new technology
• Consumers believe the retail sector would benefit the most from consumer insight

A survey out today from global provider of smart solutions for gaining market insight, Cint, has found that brands investing in market research will reap rewards, with almost two-thirds (62%) of those surveyed stating they were more likely to purchase a brand’s product if they were asked their opinion in a study. ...

As recent reports reveal that one in five 16 to 24 year olds are classed as ‘NEET’ – not in education, employment or training – Perspective, the Midlands based pioneers of student tracking systems, says that knowledge of the benefits of apprenticeships isn’t prevalent enough amongst youngsters and that the Job Centre should do all that they can to educate ‘NEETs’.

The new figures show that the volume of NEETs has hit record heights as 1.2 million people are now without education, employment or training, up by 137,000, more than 12 per cent, in the third quarter of 2011, compared with the same period a year earlier. 

Paul Davis, managing director of student management system provider Perspective, commented: “I fully appreciate that youngsters are continuing to bear the brunt of the job shortages issue in the downturn, but, I do feel that more should be done by those who come face-to-face with ‘NEET’s’ to educate them about apprenticeships and how they can quite literally change people’s lives. The government continues to invest, and being government ran, the Job Centre should be on the frontline of the push”.

Indeed, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has stated in a recent interview that a new £1bn plan to provide subsidised work and training placements will "provide hope" to thousands of young people. The youth contract scheme will give employers subsidies worth £2,275 to take on 160,000 18-to 24-year-olds, for six months, over three years. As a result, up to 410,000 work and training placements will be created in England, Wales and Scotland by giving employers wage incentives equivalent to half of the youth national minimum wage.

Paul continued: “This level of investment can’t be taken lightly. To ensure that the money is best spent and returns the desired ROI, it again comes down to reaching out and educating people. Apprenticeships can definitely help reduce NEET figures, but they need all the help they can get.”

For more information about Perspective’s learning management software, please visit www.perspective-uk.com or call 0121 506 9540....

Perspective, a leading provider of learning management software, has welcomed planned reforms to the apprenticeship system in the UK....

Clinton Cards, the UK's largest specialist retailer of greetings cards and gift related products, has appointed integrated PR, search and social media agency, Punch Communications, to handle the management of its social media profiles on both Facebook and Twitter....

A recent report has found that there has been a sharp decrease in the number of adults participating in further education courses. Perspective, a leading UK individual learning plan software provider, is looking to encourage potential adult learners and apprentices to reconsider their options before they decide not to undertake further education.

Government data found that from 2010 – 2011 the number of learners aged 19 and over in government funded further education and skills provision dropped by 11.6 per cent. However, at the same time apprenticeship figures for the same age group greatly increased and represented a jump of approximately 93 per cent. 

These figures indicate that many adults desire to study as an apprentice rather than continuing education, thereby earning a minor wage whilst also learning required skills to heighten their chances of finding full-time employment. Further to this, the recession is believed to have had an effect on the number of applicants, with many potential adult learners unable to support themselves through education, as such having to turn to full-time employment. 

Paul Davis, managing director of Perspective, commented: “Although it is encouraging to see such a large increase in the number of apprentices, it is important that further education figures don’t decrease further and both school leavers and adult learners alike look to conduct further education training where possible. 

“Although apprenticeships enable an applicant to learn on-site skills whilst earning a basic wage, they aren’t always the most suitable options and in some cases further education is a more viable options. Potential applicants must review which education or training courses are most suitable for them prior to applying.”

Perspective provides student tracking software to ensure learning management is an easy process for both training providers and schools alike. For more information, please visit www.perspective-uk.com or call 0121 506 9540....

Being more eco-friendly is in the top ten most popular New Year’s Resolutions, with people citing re-using carrier bags, recycling and upcycling and looking for reduced packaging when buying goods as eco-goals, according to our research. But with a third of landfill attributed to nappy waste, gNappies is urging parents to make 2012 a green year by switching to hybrid nappies....

Outplacement Plus Scheme Offers a Parachute Out of Redundancy, Reports Schneider...

FT Pipeline Systems, one of the leading providers of steel pipes and pipe accessories to the UK construction industry, has revealed that it recently achieved re-certification to all three industry standards; ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001....

The trend for working parents to turn to their parents for help with childcare is increasing as nursery-based childcare can be too expensive an option for many.  According to gNappies, purveyor of the hybrid nappy, this can present a great opportunity to be eco-friendly.  Whilst many parents can be reluctant to try non-disposable nappies because of the perceived burden on the child-carer, many grandparents have the time, patience and inclination to use eco-friendly nappies.  ...

The depressed job market and rising costs of further education is leading more and more graduates to think carefully about their careers and the money they will earn, says trading and brokerage house, Schneider Trading Associates (STA), which has seen a rise in graduates applying for its sponsored graduate training scheme over the past two years....

With the Christmas season well and truly upon us, today sees the launch of Shopcade, an unique, fun and interactive Facebook application which, for the first time, combines the elements of social media and shopping to create a truly social shopping experience that consumers can begin enjoying this Christmas. ...

With recent figures being released revealing that up to 80 percent of students are re-evaluating their future education plans following the hike in university tuition fees, Perspective, the Midlands-based pioneers of learner management systems, suggests that modern apprenticeships are a viable alternative....

The use of locking lids could present significant savings opportunities for water companies in the face of potential government road digging charges according to FT Pipeline Systems, a leading supplier of water pipes to the UK water industry....

CTEK, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries, is once again celebrating after its MXS 5.0 12V Battery Charger was awarded with the prestigious title of ‘Best Buy’ by Auto Bild, the renowned and respected German automotive magazine which, including foreign editions such as Auto Express in the UK and Auto Plus in France, is published in over 36 countries....

Schneider Trading Associates (STA) yesterday launched its new website, www.schneidertrading.com, and to celebrate is giving away an iPad 2 to one lucky person who follows @schneidertrader on Twitter and retweets any competition post by 5pm on Wednesday 23rd November....

As a result of advances in technology, PR companies must evolve their services to ensure campaign success and client ROI, saysPR Company Punch Communications.

Over the past few years, digital visibility has increased in importance and PRs priorities are shifting, as the communications industry is seen to introduce integrated PR strategies. The PR census revealed that over the past two years, online communications was top of the list on areas within PR that had advanced in value, and this same area would continue to do so over the next two years.

Jessica Ward, Account Executive at Punch says “The changing role within the industry itself including the advance in online communications and digital PR represents how integrated PR is a dominant part of the present and future. Combining traditional and digital PR techniques and integrating them within disciplines such as SEO and social media can provide much needed results and more measurable ROI and is representative of the changing demand on the PR sector. The challenge for PR agencies is to ensure they have the right skills and knowledge in house to maximise business opportunities created by this evolution of demand.”

It is inevitable that the rise of digital and integrated PR is set to continue, with online communications, SEO and social media the areas of real growth at the moment. Event planning and organisation, publishing and editing are areas that were found to have decreased and were set to decrease even further in significance, which fall into the category of traditional PR. Therefore, it is important to note that traditional PR techniques are still successful when implemented into campaigns correctly, but the advance in digital and online communications certainly confirms that roles within PR are changing....

The availability of software solutions to efficiently manage and supervise the progression of learners is making apprenticeship schemes a much more attractive opportunity for businesses according to Perspective, the Midlands-based pioneers of real-time student monitoring software.

Effectively tracking learner progression can significantly enhance the effectiveness and therefore success rates of apprenticeship schemes, and software, such as Perspective’s Sunesis, means that it can now be achieved much more easily and with greater accurately and control. 

Paul Davis, Managing Director of Perspective, said: “The deployment of an apprenticeship scheme is a great way for companies to develop their own, almost tailor made, employee base. However, some businesses have been previously deterred from doing so due to the extra administration demands placed upon their existing teams and the indefinite success rates.”

Businesses can now ensure that they are achieving the maximum output possible from their schemes, while providing improved support for both their pupils and the mentors involved in the training process. Sunesis by Perspective ensures that the process of tracking learner progression and attendance throughout a training scheme is a simple yet effective task; improving success rates as a result.

Sunesis also provides a simple means to keeping track of learner funding management. Perspective’s Funding Manager is an easy way of managing all sources of employer responsive funding as well as quality and compliance and ensuring that all funding submissions are 100 per cent accurate and full financial support is received.

Paul continued: “Filling out all the funding paperwork can be a laborious, time consuming and often confusing task which can often result in the full entitlement not being received. Funding Manager however, ensures that the paperwork is correct before submission so it avoids this common problem in the first instance.”

For more information about Perspective and its range of education tracking software, please visit perspective-uk.com, or call 0121 506 9540....

Modern long haulage trucks boast an array of electrically powered creature home comforts but, drivers pose the risk of not being able to use them due to improper leisure battery protection, says designer and manufacturer of smart battery chargers, CTEK....

More brands should consider using social media channels for the purpose of customer support, as it can improve online visibility and audience reach, according to digital PR company Punch Communications....

A committee of MP’s has recently claimed that poor college management is responsible for wasting government funding and hampering its ability to intervene when value for money isn’t being portrayed. However, there are simple and accurate ways in which colleges can keep abreast of their students and funding entitlement says Perspective, the Midlands-based pioneers of real-time learner management software....

FT Pipeline Systems, one of the UK's leading pipe suppliers, is advising the UK construction and water industry to use its replacement locking lids in the future to ease maintenance and cleaning constraints....

Businesses based in Britain are being encouraged to employ young British people as opposed to foreign workers reports Perspective, the Midlands-based pioneers of education tracking software and consultancy services....

According to new research from automotive market consultancy, GfK Automotive, as many as one in three motorists are hoping to keep their cars going for longer as they struggle against inflation and rising petrol prices. However, to achieve this successfully, effective battery maintenance is essential, says CTEK, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries....

Up and down the country, university students have this weekend been moving in to houses that they will call home for the next 8 months and according to London interior designers, Lima Europe, there are too many stereotypical, unkempt student homes in need of refurbishment....

Engaging with fans and followers through social media channels is becoming commonplace for many forward thinking companies, so brand marketers are advised by CrowdControlHQ, market leaders in providing social media management software, to maximise the opportunities around this through the creation of social media content calendars. Successful engagement comes with careful planning, and creating a framework for what you plan to communicate now and in the future is key to the success of any social media campaign....

As Autumn 2011 approaches fast, some interior trends for this coming season have been showcased at the London Design Festival 2011. Retro has made a return, specifically in two particular periods, Victorian and mid-nineteenth century. Here is an overview of these styles so you can integrate them into your home....

Brands looking to maximise numerous social media platforms to engage with fans and followers need to be committed when it comes to responding directly to fans, if they are to keep them, and doing this can be a time-consuming activity.  However, CrowdControlHQ, market leaders in providing social media management software, allows content to be pushed out across multiple platforms –making the co-ordination of social media activities much easier....

As any gamer knows, monsters, sci-fi, explosive weapons and b-movie scenarios are all extremely compelling gaming assets, now combine them together, throw in some friendly rivalry via the world’s most successful social network and you have Monstermind – the first real-time social game smashing its way onto Facebook from 22 September....

Statistics have shown that women tend to feel guilty after snacking in between meals, however according to Jealous, with the right treat women can feel free to snack with a clear conscience.

A recent survey carried out by Kellogg’s indicated that half of Brits admitted to feeling guilty after snacking between meals with women feeling worse than men but sweet gift manufacturer, Jealous, believes some treats are more guilt free than others. A total of 61 percent said they were reluctant to give into their hunger pains because they thought it would be too bad for them and the predominant reason behind this is that many are worried about piling on the pounds. 

It’s no wonder many are avoiding giving into their cravings if trends are anything to go by as the most popular between-meal snack at present is the classic chocolate bar. Cake and crisps are calorific and many agree that fruit or a yoghurt pot does not always hit the spot. 

Jealous, a new sweet brand, which produces boxes of gummy sweets that are free from artificial colours and flavours, suggests that women should not feel guilty for wanting a between-meal snack if they choose their treat wisely. Jealous is aiming to make its new natural and organic sweet collection the next big thing in between-meal treats, especially because the 400 gram boxes are perfect to share at home or at work. Made from natural ingredients, Jealous sweets are suitable for those with dietary and ethical requirements. 

Joint managing director of Jealous, Tahzeen Basunia, explains why the new Jealous sweet boxes are the ideal guilt-free between meal snacks: “It can’t be denied that women don’t necessarily grab a box of sweets when they are looking for a snack but with many avoiding treats between-meal times because they feel too guilty, why not. We’ve created these high-end sweet boxes for all to enjoy and they’re ideal for those mid-afternoon lulls when people really need that pick-me-up to make it through until their next mealtime. Importantly, for all those ladies out there who are worried about snacking calories, Jealous sours and gummies are made from natural ingredients so we hope snacking with a clear conscience will quickly become the new trend.”

Jealous candy gifts are available in four ranges; Sinfully Sour, Gummy Heaven, Paradise Lost and an organic selection Enchanted Eden. For more information on Jealous and to purchase the halal sweets online, visit www.thejealouslife.com. Follow @thejealouslife or search for Jealous Sweets on Facebook for more deals and insight. ...

Go Fulfilment, provider of fulfillment solutions for businesses across the UK and Europe, is advising organisations and businesses to utilise a fulfilment house to ensure they maintain a strong relationship with its customers....

Expensive costs related to the repair of steel pipes in pipeline networks can be avoided through the use of the FT E-joint according to FT Pipeline Systems, a leading provider of steel water pipelines in the UK....

CrowdControlHQ, provider of a dedicated social media monitoring tool to assist brands in managing their online image, asserts it is essential a brand implements security measures to ensure it is protected from potential cyber attacks 24 hours a day....

Although August 2011 is not shaping up to be one of the hottest on record, when it comes to travelling, chocolates are not the first choice snack for any family in the summer, says Jealous, unless they're armed with a cool bag, wet wipes or both....

Small businesses usually rely on word-of-mouth recommendations when they first start out. Making sure orders are fulfiled is one of the key responsibilities for outsourced warehousing and poor fulfilment can damage word-of-mouth recommendations for future business, says e-fulfilment specialists Go Fulfilment. 

Small businesses can use outsourced warehouses to save on time and space. They use the expertise of these fulfilment houses to pick and pack their orders and ship to customers. If customers’ orders are not fulfiled in a timely fashion, they will not have a positive experience - this could lead to upset customers who will take their business to another e-retailer who can deliver on time. 

Brian Taylor, CEO of UK Fulfillment house Go Fulfilment said: “Effective order fulfilment and good customer service can enhance a business’s reputation and therefore increase their sales. The entire process must be a positive experience for the customer. From the minute they arrive on the e-commerce website and place an order, to the check out process and finally the delivery of the goods, this entire process must be user friendly and secure. Customers should be able to track and trace the transit of their goods so that they are reassured that their order is safe and will be delivered on time.”

There are many outlets for consumers to voice their dismay about fulfilment services. Social media channels, website comments and even traditional media, such as radio or newspapers are ways consumers can spread the word about poor customer service. It is important for businesses to have a good relationship with their fulilment house and for fulfilment houses to have a good relationship with their shipping providers to help maintain an efficient process from initial order to delivery. Word-of-mouth recommendations are the highest form of flattery and can lead to more sales than just advertising alone.

For more information on outsourced warehousing and order fulfilment, please visit www.gofulfilment.com...

CrowdControlHQ, providers of online reputation management software, is advising brands to promote themselves through social channels as consumer trends continue to point a heightened interest in making purchases online and through social channels....

Sweet lovers in the UK now have more choice to enjoy as a new range of high-end boxed sweets, made purely from natural ingredients and suitable for people with dietary or ethical requirements, has launched today (July 27th)....

With social media use predicted to continue to increase over the coming years, providers of social media management software CrowdControlHQ are advising brands to look towards online channels to help increase visibility in the future...

Any business using outsourced fulfilment must integrate it with their business systems for true effectiveness says Go Fulfilment. By using an integrated system, businesses can maximise their output and sales efficiency allowing focus to remain on growth and development....

FT Pipeline Systems, the leading UK provider of steel water pipes for pipeline networks, has announced that it will be sponsoring paralympic archer and gold medalist, Danielle Brown, as she prepares for the 2012 Paralympics in London....

As brands continue to move their marketing strategies online and towards social media channels, it is important they wait and ensure they have implemented suitable brand protection strategies to ensure the brand won’t feel detrimental effects from its social media activity, according to providers of dedicated online reputation management software CrowdControlHQ....

Go Fulfilment, providers of UK and European e-fulfilment services are recommending that SMEs look towards a specialised fulfilment house to help them meet the needs of their current and potential customers....

FT Pipeline Systems, suppliers of water pipes to the UK construction and property market, is proud to announce it has joined British Water....

CrowdControlHQ, providers of online reputation management software, are advising brands marketers looking to embrace social media within their marketing strategies to implement social media-orientated management software to help successfully plan future marketing strategies....

CTEK, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries, is celebrating after taking home the Auto Express ‘Best Battery Charger’ award for the third year running....

Outsourced warehousing is ideal for fashion brands, says UK fulfillment,            company Go Fulfilment. Fashion, by its very nature is transient, changing regularly and sometimes very quickly.  Consequently, the fashion industry has to react swiftly to evolving trends, which are controlled by consumer demand.  This in itself poses many logistical problems such as speed of design, sourcing of materials, production and storage of completed designs.  Storage and distribution are key parts of the supply chain but can often be a stumbling block in such as fast moving industry.  Using outsourced warehousing offers a logical solution for businesses dealing with large and various collections at short notice. ...

CrowdControlHQ, providers of web-based brand protection software, are advising brand marketers that a dedicated social media monitoring tool is a great way to successfully manage and maintain a brand’s online image....

Boutique search, social and PR Agency, Punch Communications, has today (Wednesday 8^th June) launched an online search to reveal the future of the PR industry through the eyes of the UK’s Public Relations students and graduates. ...

Too many drivers disregard the correct and environmentally friendly way of disposing of old car batteries, with many breaking the law and throwing them out with household waste, due to a lack of knowledge of how and where to dispose of them properly, warns designer and manufacturer of Battery Chargers, CTEK....

The use of non-corroding pipelines is imperative when it comes to the installation of pipe systems designed to sit at subterranean levels according to FT Pipeline Systems, the leading provider of steel pipes, pipe fittings and adaptors in the UK....

Premature battery failure as a result of improper battery maintenance could be costing car dealers thousands of pounds every year, a cost that is easily avoided, according to designer and manufacturer of smart battery chargers, CTEK....

Perspective, the Midlands based pioneers of educational monitoring software and consultancy services, has refreshed its brand image and launched a new website to provide an easy and laconic means of demonstrating its products and how they have evolved in tandem with the ever changing education sector....

FT Pipeline Systems, the leading UK provider of steel pipes, provides an extensive range with specifications to suit various customer requirements and pipe system scenarios. With quality and sustainability a high priority today, their steel pipes offer a comprehensive solution for many projects....

Findings from a Trades Supermarket survey have revealed that when it comes to DIY, we no longer expect it to be left for the man of the household to contend with, as 58 per cent of those questioned now consider it to be a job for both sexes. ...

The Stone Bake Oven Company’s ovens are now a feature within the Eden Project in Cornwall.   The popular visitor attraction located in the south west of England in the disused clay mines promotes an eco friendly environment with two biomes housing plants from all over the world.  The Primo stone bake ovens were introduced into the Mediterranean biome to quickly help supply food to visitors after a flood had forced the Eden Project to shut....

Hosted voice provider Natterbox has developed a seamless integration of its service for users of global SaaS based CRM provider Salesforce.com, to help reduce a business’ costs, increase profits and through the streamlining of internal processes improve customer satisfaction....

With the forthcoming wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton, just a few weeks away, 123-reg the UK’s number one domain registrar is preparing for an influx of wedding and Royal-themed URL registrations during April, as consumers and businesses look set to capitalise on the Royal nuptials.  The company has also launched a just for fun quiz www.canimarryharry.com. ...

Tommy Walsh, the face of shopping comparison website for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts, Tradessupermarket.com, will be answering DIY questions in a live web chat on IPC Media’s housetohome.co.uk, Friday 15th April, 1pm....

As the British summer begins to set in with longer days and warmer weather, a wood burning pizza oven is an ideal addition to any garden, says The Stone Bake Oven Company....

Data security is a major priority for telemarketing companies, but not all businesses are maximising opportunities to protect data, says leading telemarketing services provider Phruit. The ISO 9001 standard goes some way in promoting best practice and ensuring adequate processes are in place to keep data safe. However,Phruit believes it is of paramount importance and so has employed additional processes to ensure its data protection policy is as robust as possible....

Sons and daughters up and down the country will be visiting their mum this weekend with a Mother’s day gift but according to shopping and DIY tips website, Trades Supermarket, flowers are out of fashion and practical presents are in....

New parents spend over £9,000 in the first year of a child’s life on essential equipment, however, according to leading deals and discounts website, Savoo, Mums and Dads could be saving 10 per cent or more of this expenditure by buying wisely and using voucher codes. ...

As the saying goes, a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. So it’s not surprising that on Valentine’s Day, the number one trend was Heart Shaped Pizza.  Couples love to display their affection on Valentine’s Day, and a special meal is one way to do so.  As the dough can be formed into shapes prior to cooking in a wood burning pizza oven, the dish lends itself to the heart shaped phenomena surrounding the holiday. Couples can even create a meal using heart shaped iron cookware for side dishes and desserts for added effect....

Online data capture could be providing inaccurate information regarding consumer trends, according to leading telemarketing services provider Phruit....

According to a poll conducted by Swinton, 51 per cent of British home owners are planning to make considerable improvements to their properties this year but, with the economy still seemingly unstable, having the correct tools to be able to get the job right first time is essential, according to shopping comparison website for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts, Tradessupermarket.com....

Politeness, courtesy and good manners remain the most important factor in a successful telemarketing campaign despite the myth that specific regional accents are essential, according to Phruit, a leading telemarketing services provider, based on ongoing research by the company. The news follows a recent announcement by Yougov which showed that more than half of people surveyed in its poll would be more receptive based on how someone sounds.  Moreover, it’s the Queen’s English that’s favoured by more than 50% of those polled....

Shopping channel QVC revealed that the average woman spends £2,055 on maintaining her looks in the course of a year but, according to Savoo.co.uk, she could be saving over £200 of that by searching for special deals and shopping smarter with voucher codes....

ROKK, the award winning manufacturer of high-end ice cream machinery, has announced that since its incarnation three years ago, it has achieved year-on-year growth of almost 30 per cent....

TV DIY and gardening guru, Tommy Walsh has today launched a fast and competitive shopping comparison website with an impressive inventory of merchant contributors and wide array of products; Tradessupermarket.com is tailored for the construction trade and DIY enthusiasts....

 ...

Thousands of couples across the UK are choosing to help save wild animals this Valentine’s Day by purchasing gifts for each other that help save the world’s most threatened species, says WWF....

As winter storms cause more and more disruption to the UK’s transport system, Warehouse location is the most important factor in times of adverse weather, says e-fulfilment specialists Go Fulfilment. With shopping trips proving difficult in the run-up to Christmas, many consumers bought gifts online, only to be disappointed when some major retailers were unable to fulfill promised delivery dates....

With winter fast approaching, CTEK, the leading developer of intelligent lead-acid Battery Chargers, has released the following ten maintenance tips to ensure that vehicles run smoothly, and safely, during the colder, more hazardous months.  ...

Savoo, (www.savoo.co.uk) the voucher code website that only publishes ‘live’ deals, has today launched Savoo Answers, a new service that allows shoppers to ask questions to the savviest online shoppers about discounts in the UK and receive answers that will lead them to the best deals....

The news that Google and Bing have both indicated that no-follow links are now specifically factored in by search engine's algorithms has confirmed what has been understood through anecdotal evidence for some time and underscored the growing need to consider Search and Social media with a coordinated approach to each, according to Search, Social Media and PR agency, Punch Communications....

UWA Primary School's football team, based in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania will be playing its next game in a brand new matching team kit for the first time, thanks to the benevolence of Bengeo Tigers FC of Hertford, Hertfordshire and Ware-based Mer, the highly recognised and trusted car care and valeting brand.

The donation of the team kit is the result of a sponsorship deal between Mer and Bengeo Tigers FC, in partnership with charity Childreach International which presented the Football kit to the UWA Primary School team....

Two of Bowmer & Kirkland's most esteemed East Midlands' projects have received national and regional recognition.

The Roundhouse campus has won one of the most prestigious national awards given to construction projects. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors' (RICS) Project of the Year status was awarded to the Roundhouse and the transformation of the Newton and Arkwright Buildings in Nottingham won Project of the Year at the East Midlands' Centre for the Built Environment (EMCBE) Awards.

Both projects saw Derbyshire-based Bowmer & Kirkland renovate and restore historically significant Grade II* Listed buildings and both were for clients in the education sector - The Roundhouse for Derby College and the Newton and Arkwright buildings for Nottingham Trent University.

Bowmer & Kirkland Construction Director, Paul Lomas, said: "These awards recognise the knowledge, skills and teamwork displayed by our construction teams and our supply chain.
"Both the Roundhouse and the Newton and Arkwright buildings played an important part in the history of our region and it was a great honour for us to bring them back from decay and enable them to be appreciated today and for many years to come."

The RICS Project of the Year Award was presented to the project considered to have excelled in building conservation, community benefit, regeneration and sustainability.

Chairman of the judges, Simon Pott, said: "The Roundhouse campus is an outstanding asset for the city of Derby and is having a considerable impact on students and members of the public.
"Developing a derelict building presents obvious challenges. The project not only cherishes the historical significance of the buildings, but will also help secure the city's future through the many generations who will be able to study there."

At the EMCBE awards judges commented: "The combination of two independent listed buildings, varying historic construction techniques, a complex and emerging brief, consultation with various historical societies, the construction of a completely contemporary new link building and the need to protect the quality and intent of the scheme whilst still remaining affordable to the University, make the Newton Arkwright Regeneration project stand out and worthy of recognition."

Both projects have huge historical significance, not only for the region, but the nation. The Roundhouse was built by Robert Stephenson in 1839. He and his father George were responsible for the Rocket - the world's fastest steam engine of its day and both were highly respected engineers with George Stephenson considered the ‘father of UK railways'.

The Newton and Arkwright buildings were frequented by the author D H Lawrence during his student days and it was the site where Dr Frederick Kipping invented silicone. An English chemist, his research formed the basis of the synthetic rubber and silicone based lubricant industries.

The Newton and Arkwright buildings follow the success of the Roundhouse which won the same EMCBE award last year.

For further information, please visit www.bandk.co.uk or call Sarah Millington at Bowmer & Kirkland on 01773 857514

-Ends-

About Bowmer & Kirkland Group:
Founded in 1923, the privately-owned and family-run Bowmer & Kirkland Group comprises 25 companies. Although approximately 85% of its £860m annual turnover arises from the construction industry, the Group's interests span numerous industries, within both the public and private sector. Headquartered in Derbyshire, the company employs over 1,800 people and, in June 2008, was listed as 54th in The Sunday Times Deloitte Top Track 100 list of Britain's biggest private companies. The Group has won numerous awards, most recently including several projects having received awards in the Considerate Constructors Scheme and works with many household name brand customers, including Sainsbury, Tesco, Asda, JCB, Marks & Spencer's, Rolls Royce, B & Q.
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