Best Lawyers® Recognizes 16 Steptoe & Johnson Attorneys as "Lawyer of the Year" for 2027
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 16:02 EDT
Best Lawyers® has named 16 Steptoe & Johnson PLLC attorneys as "Lawyer of the Year" for 2027 in various practices and regions across the firm. The award highlights an attorney in each practice area and designated metropolitan area for outstanding legal work and highest overall peer feedback. Listed below are the attorneys who were awarded this recognition: Charleston Metropolitan Area Armando F. Benincasa Environmental Law Bryan R. Cokeley Employment Law - Management Sharon O. Flanery Energy Regulatory Law Kurt L. Krieger Administrative / Regulatory Law Alexandria D. Lay Natural Resources Law Christopher L. Slaughter Litigation - Labor and Employment John C. Stump Project Finance Law Louisville Metropolitan Area Craig L. Johnson Professional Malpractice Law - Defendants Jim Newberry Education Law Morgantown Metropolitan Area Michael W. Barill Trusts and Estates Rodney L. Bean Litigation - Labor and Employment Tracey B. Eberling Workers' Compensation Law - Employers Brian D. Gallagher Real Estate Law Randall C. Light Banking and Finance Law John R. Merinar, Jr. Labor Law - Management San Antonio Metropolitan Area Marty Truss Oil and Gas Law
Over 185 Steptoe & Johnson Attorneys Recognized by 2027 Best Lawyers in America® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 16:00 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is pleased to announce that 142 of the firm's attorneys were named in the 2027 rankings of The Best Lawyers in America . They practice throughout firm locations in Colorado, Kentucky, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Also noted below are 46 attorneys who have received the Best Lawyers : Ones to Watch in America designation. This recognition is given to lawyers in private practice who are earlier in their careers and demonstrate professional excellence. View the full list of Steptoe & Johnson attorneys included in The Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers : Ones to Watch in America.
Python Huntress Amy Siewe Launches Hunting Bravery Podcast
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 15:07 EDT
New show explores the courage to take life's biggest leaps through conversations with entrepreneurs, scientists, authors and change-makers. First four episodes now available. Renowned python hunter, conservationist and motivational speaker Amy Siewe is inviting listeners on a different kind of hunt with the launch of her new podcast, Hunting Bravery . The first four episodes are now available across leading podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube, and on pythonhuntress.com . Known internationally as "The Python Huntress," Siewe has built a career by embracing uncertainty, overcoming fear and pursuing an unconventional calling. With Hunting Bravery , she applies those same lessons to everyday life, helping listeners confront the internal fears, limiting beliefs and self-doubt that often stand between them and the life they want to live. "People often assume bravery means being fearless," said Siewe. "I've learned that bravery is choosing to move forward even when fear is present. Whether you're chasing a dream, changing careers, healing from adversity or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, every one of us is hunting something. This podcast is about giving people permission and practical tools to take that next brave step." The podcast combines candid conversations with accomplished guests, Amy's personal experiences and actionable insights that encourage listeners to build courage one decision at a time. Rather than celebrating extraordinary heroics, Hunting Bravery explores the quiet moments that define lives and the difficult conversations, career pivots, personal reinventions and daily choices that require courage. The show's guiding philosophy is that bravery is not a personality trait, but a skill that can be practiced and strengthened. The inaugural lineup features guests whose personal and professional journeys offer unique perspectives on courage: Episode 1: Todd Durkin - Courage in Motion International fitness coach, author and motivational speaker Todd Durkin explores how physical discipline builds mental resilience, why consistency is one of the bravest choices people can make and how embracing discomfort creates lasting personal growth. Together, Durkin and Siewe examine how strength, discipline and purpose help people navigate life's greatest challenges. Episode 2: Dr. Navin Goyal - The Underdog Mindset Physician, entrepreneur and investor Dr. Navin Goyal shares lessons from medicine, business and leadership, demonstrating how resilience, authenticity and embracing uncertainty help people transform setbacks into opportunities for growth. Listeners are encouraged to rewrite limiting narratives and trust their own path forward. Episode 3: Dr. Julie Wilkes - The Science and Soul of Bravery Neuroscientist and author Dr. Julie Wilkes explains what happens inside the brain when fear takes over and why courage can be intentionally developed. The episode offers practical strategies for rewiring fear-based thinking, understanding the brain's survival mechanisms and building resilience through consistent daily habits. Episode 4: Eric Pennington - Emotional Intelligence as Bravery Spirit of EQ Managing Partner Eric Pennington discusses the relationship between emotional intelligence and courage, explaining why self-awareness, thoughtful responses and emotional honesty are essential to building resilience, strengthening relationships and leading authentically. Future episodes will feature entrepreneurs, athletes, conservationists, authors, leaders and everyday people whose stories demonstrate that bravery comes in many forms. The series is designed to inspire listeners to challenge fear, embrace change and pursue lives of greater purpose through practical, relatable conversations. New episodes of Hunting Bravery will be released regularly and are available at www.pythonhuntress.com , Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, and Pocket Casts. -ENDS-
Python Huntress Launches "Hunting Bravery" Podcast
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 12:50 EDT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Python Huntress Amy Siewe Launches Hunting Bravery Podcast New show explores the courage to take life's biggest leaps through conversations with entrepreneurs, scientists, authors and change-makers. First four episodes now available. NAPLES, FL - AUGUST 20, 2026 - Renowned python hunter, conservationist and motivational speaker Amy Siewe is inviting listeners on a different kind of hunt with the launch of her new podcast, Hunting Bravery . The first four episodes are now available across leading podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube, and on pythonhuntress.com. Known internationally as "The Python Huntress," Siewe has built a career by embracing uncertainty, overcoming fear and pursuing an unconventional calling. With Hunting Bravery , she applies those same lessons to everyday life, helping listeners confront the internal fears, limiting beliefs and self-doubt that often stand between them and the life they want to live. "People often assume bravery means being fearless," said Siewe. "I've learned that bravery is choosing to move forward even when fear is present. Whether you're chasing a dream, changing careers, healing from adversity or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, every one of us is hunting something. This podcast is about giving people permission and practical tools to take that next brave step." The podcast combines candid conversations with accomplished guests, Amy's personal experiences and actionable insights that encourage listeners to build courage one decision at a time. Rather than celebrating extraordinary heroics, Hunting Bravery explores the quiet moments that define lives and the difficult conversations, career pivots, personal reinventions and daily choices that require courage. The show's guiding philosophy is that bravery is not a personality trait, but a skill that can be practiced and strengthened. The inaugural lineup features guests whose personal and professional journeys offer unique perspectives on courage: Episode 1: Todd Durkin - Courage in Motion International fitness coach, author and motivational speaker Todd Durkin explores how physical discipline builds mental resilience, why consistency is one of the bravest choices people can make and how embracing discomfort creates lasting personal growth. Together, Durkin and Siewe examine how strength, discipline and purpose help people navigate life's greatest challenges. Episode 2: Dr. Navin Goyal - The Underdog Mindset Physician, entrepreneur and investor Dr. Navin Goyal shares lessons from medicine, business and leadership, demonstrating how resilience, authenticity and embracing uncertainty help people transform setbacks into opportunities for growth. Listeners are encouraged to rewrite limiting narratives and trust their own path forward. Episode 3: Dr. Julie Wilkes - The Science and Soul of Bravery Neuroscientist and author Dr. Julie Wilkes explains what happens inside the brain when fear takes over and why courage can be intentionally developed. The episode offers practical strategies for rewiring fear-based thinking, understanding the brain's survival mechanisms and building resilience through consistent daily habits. Episode 4: Eric Pennington - Emotional Intelligence as Bravery Spirit of EQ Managing Partner Eric Pennington discusses the relationship between emotional intelligence and courage, explaining why self-awareness, thoughtful responses and emotional honesty are essential to building resilience, strengthening relationships and leading authentically. Future episodes will feature entrepreneurs, athletes, conservationists, authors, leaders and everyday people whose stories demonstrate that bravery comes in many forms. The series is designed to inspire listeners to challenge fear, embrace change and pursue lives of greater purpose through practical, relatable conversations. New episodes of Hunting Bravery will be released regularly and are available at www.pythonhuntress.com , Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, and Pocket Casts. -ENDS- About Amy Siewe Amy Siewe, widely known as "The Python Huntress," is an invasive python hunter, conservationist, educator and motivational speaker who has built a career by pursuing an unconventional path with courage and purpose. Through television appearances, speaking engagements and now the Hunting Bravery podcast, she encourages others to overcome fear, embrace uncertainty and take bold steps toward the life they're meant to live. About Hunting Bravery Hunting Bravery explores what it means to act bravely, beyond heroics and headlines. Through Amy Siewe's lived experiences as a python hunter and conservationist, and candid conversations with guests who've chosen the harder, truer path, the podcast reframes bravery as a daily practice, rather than a personality trait. Hunting Bravery teaches the mindset shifts required to escape comfort-zone traps and "take the leap" to build a life of personal contentment. It features real stories and experiences that exemplify the bravery in all of us, and advice for living brave, purpose-filled lives.
Historic New Orleans Collection celebrates six decades of preserving history
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 12:34 EDT
The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) proudly announces its upcoming milestone celebration, " Cheers to 60 Years! ," marking six decades of dedicated service as a museum, research center, publisher and cultural institution. Established in 1966 by General and Mrs. L. Kemper Williams, HNOC has grown from a private collection into a cornerstone of historical preservation, housing the world's largest repository of materials related to New Orleans and the Gulf South. Presented by Ryan Gootee General Contractors, "Cheers to 60 Years!" will take place at HNOC Thursday, Oct. 29 and bring together supporters, historians, community members and lovers of local culture to honor six decades of research, exhibitions and public programming that illuminate the distinct heritage of the region. The event begins with an exclusive patron party at 6 p.m. followed by the main celebration at 7 p.m. featuring cocktails and cuisine from New Orleans' favorite restaurants, live music and a silent auction. Tickets start at $125. "From our founding in the French Quarter to our continued expansion and community partnerships, everything we do is driven by a deep commitment to preserving our past for current and future generations," said Daniel Hammer, president and CEO of HNOC. "For 60 years, we've served as a vital home for the history, culture and traditions that make New Orleans and the Gulf South so special. 'Cheers to 60 Years!' is both a celebration of how far we have come and a toast to the vibrant future of our city's cultural landscape." Headquartered in the French Quarter across a historic complex on Royal Street and the Williams Research Center on Chartres Street, HNOC maintains a sprawling campus of 14 properties dedicated to keeping local history alive and accessible. With more than 100,000 visitors last year alone, the institution has welcomed countless students, researchers, residents and visitors through its doors over the last 60 years, offering free access to museum exhibitions, rare manuscripts, expansive photography collections and public programs that champion diverse perspectives and foster community dialogue. This diamond anniversary underscores a remarkable era of modern evolution and growth. Since opening their museum complex at 520 Royal St. in 2019, HNOC has continually pushed the envelope with award-winning exhibitions tackling complex historical narratives while deepening collaborative arts partnerships with local musicians and creators to celebrate the living culture of the region. HNOC has dynamically expanded its reach by embracing cutting-edge digital modernization, such as the ground-up redesign of the Vieux Carré Survey database to make architectural history instantly accessible to the public. Acting as a preservation powerhouse for the French Quarter, HNOC is the historic neighborhood's largest nonprofit institutional real-estate holder and recently purchased and renovated the former K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen. Renovations on the flagship 533 Royal St. complex are currently underway. "Looking back at the last 60 years, it's extraordinary to see how the Historic New Orleans Collection continues to innovate while staying true to its founding vision," said Bonnie Boyd, chair of HNOC's board of directors. "Thanks to the dedication of our staff, donors and our community, we have spent the last five years improving our physical campus, launching award-winning programming about our shared history and making our vast archives more accessible than ever. We are thrilled to invite everyone to join us in raising a glass to this milestone and to the bright future ahead." "Cheers to 60 Years!" is made possible with the generous support from Ryan Gootee General Contractors, the HNOC Board of Directors, Gallo Mechanical, JP Morgan Chase, Moses Engineers, A&A Mechanical, NOCCI, CF Private Equity, Christine and Price LeBlanc, Leslie and Hunter Pierson III, Mimi and Claude Schlesinger and Gambel Communications. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets visit hnoc.org .
Catalina Pimienta Gómez Named Founding CEO of Christel House Colombia
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 11:56 EDT
Christel House International and Fundación Santo Domingo are partnering to transition Colegio Barbacoas to the Christel House model. As Founding CEO of Christel House Colombia, Catalina Pimienta Gómez is leading the launch of a new Christel House school in Colombia through a partnership between Fundación Santo Domingo (FSD) and Christel House International (CHI) . The partners will transitio n Colegio Barbacoas , an established school in Barú, to the Christel House model in January 2027 , making it Christel House's first school in Colombia . Since joining Christel House in March 2026, Pimienta Gómez has led the development of Christel House Colombia, advancing preparations for the transition while building relationships with teachers, students, families, and community stakeholders in Barú. "Education can change the trajectory of a child, a family, and an entire community," said Pimienta Gómez. "Beginning in Barú, we have an opportunity to build something transformative by combining Christel House's proven approach with the strengths, aspirations, and potential that already exist within Colombian communities." Pimienta Gómez brings more than 16 years of leadership experience across the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. "Catalina is a talented and purpose-driven leader with a deep commitment to creating opportunities for children and families," said David Harris, President and CEO of Christel House International . Most recently, Pimienta Gómez served as Executive and Strategic Director of Fundación Juanfe, where she led institutional strategy, fundraising, and expansion initiatives. Throughout her career, she has built cross-sector partnerships and advanced efforts to expand opportunities for underserved communities. For more than 30 years, Fundación Santo Domingo has worked alongside the Barú community through investments in education and development, including its longstanding support of Colegio Barbacoas. "This partnership brings a world-class education model to Colombia, beginning on the island of Barú, " said Daniel Gonzáles, Director of Social Investment at Fundación Santo Domingo . "I am particularly thrilled to develop this initiative under Fundación Santo Domingo's leadership, working closely with the educators, families, and students it has partnered with for decades. We aim to make every decision based on trust, collaboration, and creating a lasting impact." Under the Christel House model, students will receive rigorous academics alongside comprehensive support that includes nutritious meals, healthcare, counseling, character and leadership development, family engagement, and college and career preparation, all at no cost to students.
SGS Reviews Updates to China's National Technical Specification for Textile Fiber Content Identification
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 10:35 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 111.26, focusing on GB/T 29862-2026, the revised national standard for textile fiber content identification and labeling in China. Published as part of China's No. 30 announcement of approved national standards in 2026, it replaces GB/T 29862-2013. Taking effect on August 1, 2027, the updated standard establishes requirements for the identification, declaration and labeling of fiber content in textile products and aims to support accurate and standardized consumer information. It is divided into five parts: Fiber Content Label Requirements (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 4) Fiber Content Declaration Requirements (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 5) Fiber Content Tolerance Requirements (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 6) Fiber Content Test Methods (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 7) Conformity Judgement of Fiber Content Identification (GB/T 29862-2026, Clause 8) The major technical changes in GB/T 29862-2026 include new requirements relating to recycled fibers, digital labeling and test methods, as well as revisions to labeling practices and conformity assessment requirements. The new requirements will impact textile and apparel manufacturers, importers, exporters, brand owners, retailers, distributors, testing laboratories, certification bodies and inspection organizations involved in fiber content identification and labeling activities. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 111.26 includes further information on the key requirements and technical changes introduced by GB/T 29862-2026. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 111.26 for more details. SGS softlines services SGS has a worldwide network of over 40 state-of-the-art laboratories, including 10 in China, specializing in the testing of apparel, footwear, and home textiles. Their committed team is drawn from multi-disciplinary backgrounds, allowing them to conduct a comprehensive range of physical, chemical and functional testing services for components, materials and finished products. SGS helps companies ensure quality, performance and compliance with international, industrial and regulatory standards worldwide. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's softlines services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full China Releases Updated National Standard for Textiles - GB/T 29862-2026 SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. Min Zhu Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations, Softlines, US and Canada Tel: +1 (97) 346-11230 Website: www.sgs.com/softlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
SGS Reports on New Food Contact Ceramics Regulation in Montenegro
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 10:23 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 110.26, outlining Montenegro's new regulation for ceramic articles intended to come into contact with food and the associated compliance documentation requirements. Published on June 24, 2026, in the Official Gazette of Montenegro (OGM), the Regulation on ceramic articles intended to come into contact with food, OGM No. 87/2026 ('the Regulation') updates the country's regulatory framework for food contact ceramics and replaces the previous legislation. The Regulation introduces documentation requirements to demonstrate compliance with applicable lead and cadmium migration limits. Stakeholders may be required to provide supporting evidence, including laboratory test results and information on test methods used to assess compliance. The Regulation affects stakeholders across the food contact ceramics supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in Montenegro. It entered into force on July 2, 2026. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 110.26 includes additional information on the Regulation and its requirements. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 110.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact materials services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Montenegro Issues New Regulation for Food Contact Ceramics SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact Media Inquiries or: Dr. HingWo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852 2774 7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Rising costs and weaker order books squeeze Scotland's plumbing and heating firms
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 05:20 EDT
SNIPEF warns of growing pressure on employers as 54% report falling margins and apprenticeship recruitment intentions fall to just 14% Scotland's plumbing and heating sector is facing rising costs, weakening order books and falling profit margins, leaving businesses with significantly less financial and operational headroom, according to the latest research from the Plumbing and Heating Federation (SNIPEF). In its latest State of Trade report for Q2 2026 , the Federation retains its overall Stable assessment, but warns that trading conditions are coming under increasing pressure. Some 96% of businesses reported higher material and product costs, with this sustained cost pressure continuing to weigh on profitability. More than half, 54%, reported declining profit margins, up from 49% a year ago, indicating that margin pressure is becoming an entrenched feature of trading conditions. The outlook for future work has also weakened, with 44% of firms reporting order books below expectations for the next six months, up from 37% a year ago. Only 19% reported workloads above expectations, pointing to a more cautious and less predictable pipeline. Current trading remains relatively resilient, although conditions have softened since Q1. Some 29% of businesses traded above expectations and 33% as expected, while the proportion experiencing quieter conditions increased from 29% in Q1 to 38% in Q2. Commenting on the findings, Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF , said: "These results show a profession that is still active, but under sustained and growing pressure. "Costs are rising across almost every business we surveyed, with more than half seeing margins fall and forward order books weakening. That combination reduces employers' confidence and capacity to invest, recruit and grow. "My concern is that these pressures are emerging at the same time as policymakers are looking to businesses to create more apprenticeships and build the skilled workforce Scotland needs. "If we are serious about increasing apprenticeship numbers, supporting housing delivery and meeting the demands of the transition to low carbon heating, then we need to focus just as much on the employers expected to make that investment as we do on the targets themselves." National apprenticeship ambitions clash with employer reality National ambitions to expand apprenticeships are colliding with a much more difficult employer reality, with only 14% of employers likely to recruit an apprentice in the next six months, down from 26% a year ago. This growing disconnect contrasts sharply with the political emphasis being placed on apprenticeships and technical education. The Scottish Government has committed to supporting 25,000 Modern Apprenticeships during 2026 to 2027 and is reviewing contribution rates for apprenticeship training, while Prime Minister Andy Burnham has placed technical routes and youth apprenticeships at the centre of the UK Government's skills agenda. Although SNIPEF welcomes these ambitions, it warns that increasing apprenticeship numbers depends on employers being willing and able to create the jobs and sustain the training. Plumbing and heating employers carry the majority of the four year apprenticeship investment, including wages, supervision, college release, reduced productivity during training and the financial risks associated with recruitment and retention. These pressures are particularly significant in a safety critical profession where training standards and workplace experience cannot simply be reduced to increase numbers. SNIPEF says greater attention must therefore be given to the employer side of the apprenticeship system, including the real costs of training and the support required to make recruitment sustainable. Retentions of more than £100,000 highlight payment pressures The research also reveals significant sums of working capital continuing to be tied up through construction retentions. More than one third of businesses, 35%, reported having more than £10,000 held in retentions, while 15% had more than £100,000 withheld. The findings come as the UK Parliament considers the Commercial Payments Bill, which proposes major changes to construction payment practices, including a ban on the deduction and withholding of cash retentions under construction contracts. The measure is intended to address longstanding concerns about subcontractors effectively financing projects through money held back further up the supply chain. However, SNIPEF is calling for greater clarity over what will replace retentions. The Federation is concerned that an unintended consequence of reform could be the introduction of alternative forms of security that are more expensive or harder to access, disproportionately disadvantaging small and medium sized contractors. SNIPEF says any replacement must be proportionate, affordable and workable for businesses throughout the construction supply chain, with clarity provided before the new arrangements take effect. ENDS
Midlands Farms and Market Gardens Turn to Manual Handling Equipment as Harvest Season Peaks
Thu, Aug 20, 2026 03:51 EDT
As harvest season reaches its peak, smaller farms and market gardens are once again relying on pallet trucks, stacker trucks and lift tables to move produce quickly from field to store without the cost or complexity of powered equipment. Midland Pallet Trucks says this time of year consistently sees a rise in demand from growers needing to shift heavy volumes of fruit, vegetables and other produce over a short, intense window. For many smaller growers, August and September bring a sudden jump in the amount of stock that needs handling, often with the same small team that manages the rest of the year. Crates of produce need to move from picking areas to packing sheds, then on to cold storage or straight onto delivery vehicles, frequently several times a day during the busiest weeks. This is exactly the kind of short, sharp seasonal pressure that manual equipment is well suited to, offering a practical, lower-cost way to keep produce moving without the upkeep or charging requirements of powered alternatives. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks, said, "We see the same pattern every year. Around this time, we get a real spike in enquiries from smaller farms and market gardens across the Midlands who suddenly need to move a lot more stock than usual, for a relatively short period. For a lot of these businesses, investing in powered equipment for a few intense weeks a year simply doesn't add up. "A good manual pallet truck or stacker does the job well. It's straightforward to use, doesn't need charging or fuel, and can be picked up by whoever's available that day, which matters when you're relying on seasonal or part-time help during a busy harvest. "What we'd say to growers is that it's worth checking equipment now, before things get really busy. Wheels, hydraulics and forks all take a battering during a heavy harvest period, and the last thing anyone wants is equipment failing halfway through picking season. A quick check now can save a lot of disruption later. "It's a reminder that not every handling problem needs an expensive solution. Sometimes the simplest bit of kit, kept in good working order, is exactly what a smaller growing business needs to get through its busiest weeks of the year." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com.
ASOS and Novotique finance chief Tom Wills joins Modo25 and ASK BOSCO® as Chief Financial Officer
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 12:12 EDT
Appointment follows £4.1m Gresham House Ventures investment and the launch of ASK BOSCO® in the Shopify App Store, as the business looks to further accelerate its growth. 18 August 2026. Modo25, the digital marketing business behind AI analytics platform ASK BOSCO®, has appointed Tom Wills as Chief Financial Officer. Wills brings more than 15 years of finance experience from ASOS.com, EDF Energy and British American Tobacco, as well as seven years as co-founder and CFO of data business Novotique. At Novotique, he helped take the business through a management buy-out and subsequent funding rounds to Series B. He has spent much of his career raising and managing money, supporting businesses on their growth journey. He joins Modo25/ASK BOSCO® at a significant point in the company's growth. Gresham House Ventures led a £4.1m investment into ASK BOSCO® in July 2025, backing a business whose angel investors include Skyscanner co-founder Bonamy Grimes and former Sky Betting & Gaming chief executive Richard Flint. In March 2026, ASK BOSCO® launched in the Shopify App Store. The business is now entering the next phase of its expansion, with Wills leading its finance function. From performance to profit Most ecommerce reporting tells a merchant what their advertising spend returned. ASK BOSCO® is designed to tell them what that spend actually made. The Shopify app connects advertising data with real product margin and live inventory, giving brands and retailers a clearer picture of which products are genuinely profitable to advertise. That means they can see beyond return on ad spend, avoid spending money promoting products that are about to run out of stock, and understand how marketing activity is affecting the bottom line. ASK BOSCO® brings data from platforms including GA4, Meta, Google Ads, Klaviyo and Shopify into one place. It also lets users ask questions in plain English and forecast future performance. For Wills, the move from measuring performance to understanding profit is one of the reasons he wanted to join the business. "The problem ASK BOSCO® solves was my problem" Wills spent part of his career at ASOS, where he worked on the international business and produced the digital marketing and sales reports used to make weekly trading decisions. "The problem ASK BOSCO® solves was my problem," said Tom Wills, CFO at Modo25 and ASK BOSCO®. "Every Monday at ASOS I was in early, pulling together the marketing and sales numbers because the decisions being made that week depended on them. Getting that information right and on time was worth real money to the business. I have sat in the seat our customers sit in, so I understand why this matters. "What made this the right move now is the combination of a genuine market need, AI that is built into the product rather than bolted on, and a management team that really understands the space. "ASK BOSCO® is a business at an exciting inflection point. My focus is on bringing financial rigour as we accelerate, so the team has the foundations and the runway to keep building." Building for the next stage Wills will work closely with founder and CEO John Readman and COO Abi Liddle to bolster the business's finance function, ensuring the business is well positioned for its next capital raise. "We didn't hire a CFO just to keep the books," said John Readman, Founder and CEO of Modo25 and ASK BOSCO®. "We wanted someone who has sat on both sides of the table. Tom has been the buyer our customers are, and he has raised and deployed capital through four rounds at a data business. He understands what investors need, but also what it takes to make the money work once you've raised it. We put him through a robust process because this is an important appointment for the next phase of the business. As we look to accelerate our growth, we are pushing further into Shopify and the US, and we now have the finance leadership to match that ambition." Hamza Rafiq, Associate Director at Gresham House Ventures, said: "Since we led the round in 2025, ASK BOSCO® has made real strides in strengthening its senior leadership, with hires across product and technology and now Tom joining as CFO. Helping our portfolio companies execute their people plan is a core part of the support we provide at Gresham House Ventures, enabling them to build teams that can accelerate growth and navigate complex, fast-changing markets. Tom has spent his career growing businesses in ecommerce and data, so he understands both the problem ASK BOSCO® is solving and the added complexity AI is bringing to the market. He has been through the scaling journey before and brings that first-hand experience to help execute ASK BOSCO's growth plans, including the opportunity opened up by the recently launched Shopify app. We are delighted to have him on board." ENDS About ASK BOSCO® ASK BOSCO® is an AI analytics platform that brings fragmented marketing and ecommerce data into one place. It gives brands and retailers a clearer view of sales and marketing performance, answers questions in plain English and provides recommendations on what to do next - without waiting for a data analyst or digging through spreadsheets. By connecting advertising spend to real product margin and inventory, ASK BOSCO® helps businesses understand which products and channels are actually making money and where they can grow profitably. No coding required. ASK BOSCO® is available in the Shopify App Store and at askbosco.io. About Modo25 Modo25 is a Leeds-based global digital marketing business specialising in supported in-housing. It helps client teams take their marketing in-house while giving them access to agency expertise when they need it. Modo25 is the company behind ASK BOSCO®. Its clients are given access to ASK BOSCO®, giving them greater transparency over their performance, their spend and the work being carried out on their behalf. About Gresham House Ventures: Gresham House Ventures is an experienced investor, providing flexible growth and secondary capital. Gresham House Ventures partners with exceptional management teams in fast-growing, innovative businesses across a diversified range of sectors, including enterprise solutions, healthcare & education and consumer markets. The team has been working together for over 20 years and has made over 200 investments into growth businesses. https://www.greshamhouseventures.com Gresham House Ventures is part of Gresham House, a specialist alternative asset management group that is focused on delivering financial returns for clients by investing in the global themes shaping our future. Gresham House invests across a range of strategies, with expertise in private and public equity, forestry and natural capital, sustainable infrastructure, real estate, renewable energy and battery energy storage. Gresham House is committed to operating responsibly and sustainably, taking the long view in delivering sustainable investment solutions. Notes to editors Tom Wills joined Modo25 and ASK BOSCO® in August 2026. Previous roles include co-founder and CFO of Novotique for seven years, senior finance roles at ASOS.com, EDF Energy and British American Tobacco, and experience in digital publishing. Wills qualified in practice before moving in-house. He is Australian and has been UK-based for almost 20 years. Gresham House Ventures led a £4.1m investment into ASK BOSCO®, announced on 1 July 2025. Other backers include Bonamy Grimes, co-founder of Skyscanner, and Richard Flint, former CEO of Sky Betting & Gaming. ASK BOSCO® AI Analytics Reports launched in the Shopify App Store on 6 March 2026 and currently holds a 5.0 review rating. Interviews with John Readman and Tom Wills are available on request. Headshots and brand assets are also available.
Gen Z Is Rewriting Online Discovery, But Most Retailers Aren't Keeping Up Research Indicates
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 09:06 EDT
Gen Z is abandoning traditional search in favour of visual and conversational discovery, forcing retailers and travel brands to rethink how customers find products and experiences online. Data cited in a new analysis from Firney shows that 62% of Gen Z and Millennials prefer visual search, while 43% of Gen Z now begin product discovery on platforms such as TikTok rather than Google. Around 70% are also using AI tools at some stage in the shopping journey. The shift is exposing a growing gap between how digital platforms are built and how younger audiences actually behave. For years, websites have been designed around keyword search, structured navigation and filters. But Gen Z users are increasingly bypassing these systems altogether, relying instead on images, short-form video and conversational prompts to express intent. In practice, this creates a very different starting point. Instead of typing "black running shoes", users are more likely to upload an image, reference a look or ask a question such as "something like this but for winter". Crucially, they expect immediate, relevant results. At the same time, discovery is moving away from brand-owned platforms. Increasingly, it happens earlier in the journey on social channels or through visual content. By the time a user reaches a website, expectations have already shifted. They are looking to be guided, not asked to start again. Most retail and travel platforms, however, remain built around structured search and fixed navigation. These systems assume users arrive with clear intent and precise queries. For a generation that explores through ideas, images and prompts, that assumption no longer holds. This is not just a UX challenge but a commercial one: as discovery increasingly happens off-site, websites risk losing influence over the customer's final decision; either because they aren't cited within LLM answers, or because they fail to respond quickly and intuitively to visitors arriving further down the funnel. Marc Firth, CEO and co-founder of Firney, said the shift requires a fundamental rethink of how digital experiences are designed. "Gen Z thinks in ideas, images and questions," he said. "If a website can't respond to that, it's not just frustrating, it's commercially ineffective." For retailers and travel brands, this changes the role of the website. It is no longer where discovery begins, but where it continues. "When a customer arrives on site having started their product discovery on an LLM or an influencer-led journey, they are looking to verify what they've been told is accurate; meaning items like reviews, testimonials and other social proof need to be higher and more visible on the page." That means your website needs to handle both visitors who are starting their product discovery, plus those who arrive informed on what they need to buy and helping them move forward without friction. "The brands that win will be the ones that understand intent quickly and guide people to decisions in a natural way," Firth added. The analysis points to a future defined by digital experiences that interpret intent, respond conversationally, personalise in real time and look great, all within seconds. As consumer behaviour continues to shift, this kind of experience is expected to play a central role in how customers find, evaluate and choose what to buy or book. For more information, please visit https://www.firney.com .
The GCSE Results Gap: Results Don't Tell Employers Who Will Thrive at Work, Education Expert Warns
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 06:33 EDT
As hundreds of thousands of teenagers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland prepare to receive their GCSE results this Thursday, employers are being urged to question how much those grades really tell them about a young person's future potential. While results day can feel like a verdict on a teenager's prospects, evidence suggests employers themselves are increasingly moving away from using academic achievement as a recruitment filter. Data from the Institute of Student Employers shows the share of employers requiring specific A-level grades has roughly halved since 2015/16, while the proportion setting no minimum academic requirement has more than doubled. Major employers have also challenged the value of academic thresholds. PwC and EY both removed hard academic requirements from graduate recruitment, with EY doing so after finding no link between university performance and later career success among its own employees. Learnlife, an education innovator founded in Barcelona in 2017, believes the shift reflects a wider problem with the way young people's abilities are assessed. It argues that grades can demonstrate achievement in particular subjects, but tell employers far less about qualities such as creativity, resilience, collaboration, initiative, adaptability and self-direction. Those qualities are becoming increasingly important in the workplace. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 identifies analytical thinking, resilience, creative thinking and self-awareness among the skills employers increasingly value. Stephen Harris, Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Learnlife, said: "Results day is traditionally framed as a verdict, and for a narrow slice of ability that is roughly what it is. The trouble starts when employers treat that verdict as a proxy for everything else a young person can do. "We are not telling anyone grades are meaningless. We are asking why so few organisations have built a way to see past them. A single number cannot tell the whole story, never has, and never will." Learnlife has developed an alternative approach designed to give a broader picture of what a young person can actually do. Rather than relying solely on exam scores, learners are assessed across fifteen competencies spanning five domains, including areas such as self-direction and ethical judgement. Evidence of their development is recorded through work and projects mentors have actually seen, creating a lifelong, learner-owned record known as the Learning Vitae. Learnlife says this type of evidence can help demonstrate qualities that are difficult to capture in a timed written exam, from solving problems and working with others to taking initiative and applying knowledge in real-world situations. Its graduates have gone on to found companies, win scholarships based on demonstrated readiness rather than ranked scores, and secure places at institutions including Harbour.Space in Bangkok and Trinity College Dublin. Harris believes the challenge for employers is not to abandon academic achievement, but to stop expecting grades to answer questions they were never designed to answer. For more information, visit www.learnlife.com .
Cold Storage Operators Warned to Factor in Battery Performance When Running Electric Handling Equipment
Wed, Aug 19, 2026 04:05 EDT
Businesses running electric pallet trucks , lift tables and stacker trucks in refrigerated or frozen environments are being urged to pay closer attention to battery performance, as lithium batteries lose both capacity and charge retention in colder temperatures. Pallet Truck Shop says the issue is often overlooked by operators who assume equipment will perform the same way in a -25°C freezer store as it does on a standard warehouse floor. Cold storage has become one of the fastest-growing parts of UK warehousing, driven by demand for refrigerated food, drink and pharmaceutical storage. As more of that space is fitted out with electric handling equipment rather than manual alternatives, understanding how batteries behave in these conditions is becoming a genuinely practical concern, not just a technical detail. Cold temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside a lithium battery, which reduces both the amount of usable charge available and how efficiently that charge is delivered. In practice, this can mean shorter run times between charges, slower charging itself, and batteries that appear to lose capacity more quickly over their working life if they're routinely operated in freezing conditions without any adjustment to charging habits. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said, "It catches people out because the equipment still looks and feels the same, it just doesn't perform quite as well. A pallet truck that comfortably does a full shift in a normal warehouse might need charging twice as often once it's working in a blast freezer, and that's before you even think about the impact on battery lifespan over time. "The good news is that most of this is manageable with a bit of planning. Charging equipment in a warmer area when possible, keeping batteries topped up rather than letting them run right down, and choosing equipment genuinely suited to cold environments in the first place all make a real difference. "What we'd encourage is for operators to actually ask the question before they buy or lease equipment for a cold store, rather than working it out the hard way once it's already on the floor. Not all electric handling equipment is built with those conditions in mind, and the wrong choice ends up costing more in downtime and battery replacement than it would have done to specify correctly from the start." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Southern Careers Institute Harlingen Branch Campus to Host Welding Competition
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 15:52 EDT
Southern Careers Institute (SCI) will host an internal Welding competition for students at its Harlingen Branch Campus on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m . While the competition is exclusively for SCI Harlingen Branch Campus Welding students, the event is free and open to the public , providing community members and prospective students with an opportunity to experience Welding training firsthand. Guests are invited to visit the SCI Harlingen Branch Campus at 1122 Morgan Blvd., Harlingen, TX 78550 , where they can tour the campus and watch the Welding competition live. The event offers an engaging opportunity for individuals interested in Welding and Skilled Trades to get an inside look at the Welding program, explore the campus environment, and see students put their skills into practice during a friendly competition. "Events like this give our community an opportunity to see the dedication and hands-on work that goes into Welding training," said Gilbert Barrera, Director of Education at the SCI Harlingen Branch Campus . "We welcome anyone interested in Welding or the Skilled Trades to come tour our Harlingen Branch Campus, meet our team and experience the competition." The competition is designed for current SCI Harlingen Welding students and will provide participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills in a competitive setting. Members of the public are encouraged to attend, observe the competition and tour the campus at the event. Whether someone is considering a career in Welding, exploring Skilled Trades for the first time or simply interested in seeing welding in action, the event provides a chance to experience the program firsthand. Event Details What: SCI Harlingen Branch Campus Welding Student Competition & Campus Tour When: Wednesday, August 26, 2026 | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Southern Careers Institute Harlingen Branch Campus Address: 1122 Morgan Blvd., Harlingen, TX 78550 Cost: Free and open to the public. Space is limited. For more information about Southern Careers Institute and its programs, call (844) 783-6569 or visit scitexas.edu . About Southern Careers Institute Founded in 1960, Southern Careers Institute (SCI) has been dedicated to empowering Texas students through career-focused education. With eight campuses conveniently located in Austin, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Pharr, San Antonio North, San Antonio South, and Waco, SCI offers a diverse array of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers and meaningful community contributions. Our training programs encompass various fields, including Business, Beauty, Allied Health, Technology, and Trades, with options for hybrid and online learning to accommodate different learning styles. Please note that not all programs are available at every campus. The Southern Careers Institute Austin Main campus is located at 1701 W Ben White Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704. Phone: 512-432-1400 Website: scitexas.edu Press Contact Alyssa Luna Southern Careers Institute alyssa.luna@scitexas.edu
Albright College Named an International College of Distinction
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 12:05 EDT
Albright College Named an International College of Distinction Albright College has been named a 2026-2027 International College of Distinction for its support of students from more than 20 countries. READING, Pa. - August 18, 2026 - Choosing to study far from home requires an extraordinary level of trust. International students arrive on campus having left behind familiar systems, languages and support networks, counting on their institution to meet that trust with real, substantive support. Colleges of Distinction has named Albright College a 2026-2027 International College of Distinction, recognizing its commitment to honoring that trust at every stage of the student experience. This recognition goes beyond international enrollment numbers. It reflects an evaluation of the policies, programs and campus culture that determine whether international students are truly set up to succeed academically, socially and professionally. "International students bring perspectives to our classrooms and residence halls that make Albright a richer place to learn," Albright President Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D. said. "Our job is to make sure that from the day they arrive, they have the community, the guidance and the resources to feel at home here, and to thrive, academically and personally, long after they graduate." "Welcoming international students is one thing," said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. "Supporting them is another. Albright College has built the infrastructure, the staffing and the campus culture to do both exceptionally well." Dedicated admission counselors guide prospective students through the application, transcript-evaluation and English-proficiency process, and the student-led International Student Association fosters cross-cultural understanding and connects international students with peers across campus. Albright is home to students from more than 20 countries, a diversity that builds cross-cultural competence for domestic and international students alike as they prepare to enter increasingly global careers. International students also have full access to Albright's Student Success Center for tutoring, writing support and academic coaching, as well as the Experiential Learning and Career Development Center's counseling, employer connections and experiential learning opportunities as they plan their next steps after Albright. "International students bring perspectives, experiences and talents that make every campus richer," Schritter added. "Albright understands that and invests in making sure those students have everything they need to thrive there and beyond." To learn more about Albright's international student resources, visit albright.edu/admission-and-aid/international or CollegesofDistinction.com. About Albright Albright College, founded in 1856, is Berks County's oldest institution of higher learning. Located on a 118-acre suburban campus in Reading, Pa., Albright offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a distinctive interdisciplinary focus, including a flexible co-major program that empowers students to build a truly personalized academic experience. The College's mission is to equip students to live their best lives, now and in the future, while serving the broader community through educational outreach and meaningful partnerships. Learn more at albright.edu. About Colleges of Distinction Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been a trusted resource for identifying excellence in higher education. The platform honors schools that prioritize the student experience through engaged learning, expert teaching, vibrant community spaces and successful post-graduate outcomes. Its website provides specialized tools, insights and search filters to help students find the ideal campus fit. Learn more at CollegesofDistinction.com.
National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Opens Nominations for 2027 Induction Class
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 12:04 EDT
Nominations Accepted Through October 31, 2026; 2027 Induction Ceremony to Take Place June 12 in Lexington, Kentucky The National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame (NLEOHOF) is now accepting nominations for its 2027 Hall of Fame Induction Class , recognizing extraordinary law enforcement officers whose courage, service, leadership and lasting impact exemplify the very best of the profession. Nominations are open now through October 31, 2026 , and may be submitted at nationalleohalloffame.com The 2027 induction will mark an exciting new chapter for the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame as the organization brings its annual ceremony to Lexington, Kentucky , with GALLS continuing its support as the Hall of Fame's presenting sponsor. The 2027 National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held June 12, 2027, at Central Bank Center in Lexington . The move represents the Hall of Fame's continued national growth and its commitment to creating a lasting home for honoring the men and women whose service has made an extraordinary impact on their communities and the law enforcement profession. "Every year, we are reminded that behind the badge are incredible stories of courage, sacrifice, leadership and service that deserve to be remembered," said Megan Stockburger, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame . "These nominations allow departments, families, colleagues and communities across the country to help us tell those stories and ensure exceptional service is never forgotten." Nominations may recognize active, retired or fallen law enforcement professionals across a variety of award categories, including: Distinguished Service Award - recognizing an exceptional career of leadership, service, and lasting impact. Courage in Service Award - honoring extraordinary courage demonstrated in the line of duty. K9 Award - recognizing exceptional K9 teams and their contributions to law enforcement and public safety. The McDavid Group Charities Never Forgotten Award - honoring a legacy of service and ensuring the sacrifice and impact of deserving law enforcement professionals are never forgotten. Additional Hall of Fame categories recognizing extraordinary achievement, leadership, sacrifice, innovation, and service within the law enforcement community. The National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame exists to ensure that extraordinary service does not go unnoticed and that the stories of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others are preserved for generations to come. Individuals, agencies, colleagues, family members and members of the community are encouraged to nominate deserving law enforcement professionals. Nominations close October 31, 2026. To submit a nomination or learn more about the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame, visit nationalleohalloffame.com . MEDIA & NOMINATION INFORMATION For additional information, interview requests or questions regarding nominations, please contact: Megan Stockburger Co-Founder & Executive Director National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame nationalleohalloffame.com
Accuracy X, Inc. Unveils Multi-Sight™ MAX System
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 11:43 EDT
Accuracy X, Inc (AXI) , the makers of the world's proven most accurate pistols, has introduced the Multi-Sight™ MAX System, a patented optic-mounting platform that pairs the ultra-low profile of a direct mount with the durability and configurability the company has built its reputation on. The new system expands, rather than replaces, the original Multi-Sight System , which remains in production and fully supported. Direct-mounting a red dot has traditionally forced shooters to trade away long-term reliability and versatility. The Multi-Sight MAX ends that compromise. At the core of the system is the company's patented Index-Recoil Lug, engineered to absorb the shear forces that break fasteners, destroy optics, and shift zero. The result is absolute zero retention across repeated plate changes. The system's patent-pending Direct Depth Mounting System routes mounting screws directly into the slide instead of through a threaded plate, allowing Accuracy X to machine deeper pockets and seat optics lower than conventional direct mounts. The resulting height-over-bore is the lowest achievable on a pistol slide. Configurability comes from the SLOT Sight™ System paired with a new Rapid Change Interface, which lets shooters swap front and rear sight blades, from suppressor height to compact co-witness, without removing the red dot. A front-mounted co-witness option addresses snag concerns raised by some law enforcement agencies, and an integrated, ambidextrous slide racker rounds out a competition-ready feature set. The Multi-Sight MAX supports the three most popular optic footprints, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, Aimpoint ACRO, and Trijicon RMR, which together account for about 95 percent of red-dot sights in use. Additional modules and accessories are planned. "For years, shooters have had to choose between the ultra-low profile of a direct mount and the reliability and versatility of a robust system," said Steve Huff, president of Accuracy X. "We refused to accept that compromise. The Multi-Sight MAX gets the dot as low as it can go and lets you tune your entire setup without ever touching your red dot. When excellent isn't good enough, this is what comes next."' Watch an in-depth technical breakdown of the Multi-Sight MAX system and discover how this low-profile, modular sight mounting platform revolutionizes versatility for handguns in the recent video " The Ultimate Optic Solution: Deep Dive Into the Multi-Sight MAX System. " The video discusses machining tolerances, optic compatibility, co-witness options, and why this system is changing the game for competitive and tactical shooters alike. It is available now for licensed partners. Full specifications will be available at www.accuracyx.com . For more information on Accuracy X, visit its website or follow along on Instagram , Facebook , X , or YouTube .
Tioxide restarts TiO2 plant in UK - heralding new era for pigment production at historic Greatham site
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 09:20 EDT
Tioxide Materials Limited ( Tioxide ) today announced the successful recommissioning of the titanium dioxide (TiO₂) pigment production facility at Greatham in Hartlepool, marking a major milestone following LB Group's acquisition of the site and its associated TiO₂ pigment assets earlier this year. Production has now commenced at the site, with single-stream operation underway and TIOXIDE ® and DELTIO ® products beginning to return to the market. The achievement represents an important step towards the new owners restoring the facility's full manufacturing capability and enhancing long-term security of supply of TiO 2 pigments for customers worldwide. The restart follows four months of careful commissioning, testing and maintenance work with Tioxide's engineering, operations and technical teams working closely together to safely prepare the facility for commercial production. A phased ramp-up is now underway, with a clear roadmap to increase production capability and achieve full operational capacity by early 2027. Karen Askwith, Managing Director at Tioxide, said: "Today is a landmark moment for Tioxide and a proud achievement for everyone involved in bringing the Greatham facility back into operation after it was idled in Q4 2025. "Drawing on more than 50 years of manufacturing heritage, the site at Greatham has a proud history of producing high-quality TiO₂ pigments. This is an important step forward for our new business - but also for the local economy on Teesside, for the UK chemical sector and the wider TiO₂ industry. The successful commencement showcases the skill, dedication and expertise of our employees, whose commitment has been instrumental in safely commissioning the site and establishing production, and I'd like to thank everyone on our team for their outstanding efforts. "I'd also like to acknowledge our suppliers for their support and our customers for their confidence throughout this process. With production now underway, our focus turns to delivering our ramp-up programme, stepping the site up to full manufacturing operations - safely and successfully - and ensuring our customers have access to a reliable and sustainable source of TiO₂ pigments for many years to come." Tioxide's Greatham facility has a total nameplate capacity of 150,000 tonnes of TiO₂ pigment per annum, with production supported by a team of scientists at the company's new research and development centre in Wynyard and commercial and business support teams based at its headquarters in Stockton-on-Tees. Under its TIOXIDE ® and DELTIO ® brands, Tioxide produces a range of premium-performance TiO₂ pigments for use in coatings, plastics and inks applications. Customers interested in learning more about Tioxide's products and capabilities, or discussing future supply requirements, are encouraged to contact Tioxide's commercial team or visit www.tioxide.com (ends) About Tioxide Tioxide manufactures premium-performance titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) pigments, marketed under the TIOXIDE ® and DELTIO ® brands, and designed for use in all major applications. Headquartered in Stockton-on-Tees in the UK, the company draws on over 50 years of manufacturing heritage supported by advanced research and development capabilities, and a global supply network. Partnering with customers worldwide, Tioxide provides consistently reliable TiO 2 pigments, strong technical customer support, and continuous product innovation. Tioxide is a wholly owned subsidiary of LB Group, the world's leading TiO 2 pigment and titanium sponge manufacturer. Please visit www.tioxide.com for more information about Tioxide and the company's TiO 2 pigments. Social Media LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/tioxide Notes to Editors The Greatham facility was the UK's first commercial chloride-process TiO₂ pigment plant, commencing production in October 1971. It later pioneered the proprietary Integrated Chlorination and Oxidation (ICON) technology, which became central to the manufacture of its high-performance TiO₂ pigments. The site was originally owned by British Titan and, in November 1990, commissioned ICON while operating as Tioxide, a subsidiary of ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries). Under Huntsman's ownership, the facility underwent major expansions in 2002 and 2008, before the business was divested to become Venator. On 27 April 2026, LB Group acquired the Greatham facility and associated TiO₂ pigment assets from Venator Materials UK Ltd, establishing the new Tioxide business and marking the beginning of a new chapter in the site's long industrial history.
"I Couldn't Imagine Doing Anything Else": Southampton Mum Takes the Lead at Baby Sensory Southampton Central
Tue, Aug 18, 2026 05:10 EDT
Nine years ago, Kylie Humpleby took her baby daughter along to a Baby Sensory class, never imagining it would end up shaping her whole career. This September she'll be welcoming a new intake of Southampton families - this time as the owner of Baby Sensory Southampton Central , running the same programme that once meant so much to her own family. Kylie first came across Baby Sensory in 2015, going along with her daughter, then returned two years later with her son. What started out as simply something to do together turned into the highlight of her week. "I honestly can't picture myself doing anything else now," said Kylie. "As a parent, Baby Sensory was a lifeline during those early days. It gave me confidence, helped me understand more about my baby's development and gave me a special time each week to focus just on us. "I loved the fact that every activity had a purpose behind it. It wasn't just about keeping babies entertained; it was about understanding how they learn, interact and develop. Now, as a practitioner, seeing the amount of research and planning that goes into each session makes me appreciate it even more." Kylie spent 12 years in banking before all this, moving through various customer service, management and data roles. But after becoming a Baby Sensory class assistant in 2018, and training up as a class leader in 2022, she found she'd landed on something that used her skills in work she loved doing. So, when the chance came up to take over Baby Sensory Southampton Central in 2024, it wasn't a hard decision. She's since built up a strong following of parents and babies around Sholing and Woolston and is now branching out further with new Friday classes starting in Nursling, SO16, from 11th September. The new sessions should make things easier for families on the west side of Southampton and give parents another day option to work around jobs and other commitments. Baby Sensory runs classes for babies from birth to 13 months, built around music, movement, lights, textures and sensory play to support early learning. Parents don't just watch the activities - they're also shown the thinking behind them, and how something as simple as play helps their baby grow. For Kylie, though, it's the community that's made it worthwhile. "Seeing parents and babies come together every week is what makes this so special. I know first-hand how valuable that support network can be when you have a young baby. I can't wait to welcome even more families and help them create their own Baby Sensory memories." For more information, please visit www.babysensory.com/southamptoncentral .