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Each Friday you can join a member of team online to ask any questions that you may have.

You can join us between 11:00 - 11:30 via and we will do our best to help you with any questions/concerns.

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Business leaders are increasingly placing themselves in front of the camera, in an effort to appear more relatable to a social media-first audience. When it goes well, it can be a huge hit. When it doesn't, you risk becoming the subject of online ridicule.

In the recent case of Chris Kempczinski, the McDonald's CEO and president, it's the latter.

A video of the head of the iconic fast food chain trying a new menu item has gone viral, with social media and online comedians mocking his awkward taste test and citing it as evidence that he did not enjoy the experience of his own firm's burger.

In the clip, which was posted in February but went viral over the weekend, Kempczinski talks about how much he loves the new Big Arch burger, which he calls the "product" - an unusual moniker for a sandwich.

Kempczinski then goes on to describe the new menu offering, which consists of two quarter-pound beef patties, three slices of melted white cheddar cheese, crispy onions and a signature "Big Arch" tangy sauce.

"I'm going to do a tasting right now, but I'm going to eat this for my lunch, just so you know," Kempczinski tells the audience. He then sheepishly looks around the burger, saying: "I don't even know how to attack it, there's so much to it."

Finally, he takes a small bite of the burger, and proceeds to show the camera the small indentation he made.

Commenters on the video were quick to call out the apparently forced nature of the video. One wrote, "Man's aura screams kale salad."

Another said, "That was the smallest first bite I've ever seen."

A third commenter mocked Kempczinski's usage of corporate lingo in the video: "It scares me when you call the food 'product.'"

A Reddit user offered some advice: "If McDonald's cares about its future, they need to make sure [Kempczinski is] anywhere but in front of a camera."

The McDonald's Big Arch burger will launch nationwide in the US for a limited time, beginning on 3 March.

Kempczinski has served as president and CEO of McDonald's since 2019, succeeding Steve Easterbrook, who was fired after engaging in a relationship with a senior female employee. In 2023, Easterbrook, who is British, was fined $400,000 (£328,000) by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for "concealing the extent of his misconduct".

McDonald's did not reply to the Guardian's request for comment.

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McDonald's CEO's awkward taste test sparks mocking online: 'His aura screams kale salad'

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Video of Chris Kempczinski trying new 'product' the Big Arch burger criticized for feeling forced and corporate

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Wizz Air cuts flights due to crisis in the middle east

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Wizz Air cuts flights due to crisis in the middle east

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Wizz Air cuts full-year forecast over impact of Middle East conflict

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Central European budget carrier Wizz Air has cut its full-year financial forecast over the impact of the Middle East conflict. It had previously expected a net result ranging from a €25 million loss to a €25 million profit at the end of the fiscal year on 31 March. But it…

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Why Waitrose is changing its fish supply chain

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Why Waitrose is changing its fish supply chain

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Why Waitrose is Changing its Fish Supply Chain Strategy

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Waitrose becomes the first UK supermarket to suspend mackerel sourcing following environmental advice on stock sustainability and supply chain concerns

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Emirates organises inclusive travel rehearsal in Rome

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With its ‘Travel Rehearsal’ initiative, Emirates breaks down invisible barriers and transforms the airport experience into a supportive journey, making travel accessible to everyone.In collaboration with ANGSA Lazio APS, the initiative welcomed 12 young participants and 16 caregivers, providing a hands-on rehearsal to build confidence and foster…

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ByKevin PeacheyCost of living correspondent

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When will UK interest rates fall again and how do they affect mortgages?

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The interest rate set by the Bank of England affects mortgage, loan and savings rates for millions.

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Balfour Beatty to face hearing over death 

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Balfour Beatty to face hearing over death 

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Balfour Beatty to face hearing over worker’s death at AWE

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The 58-year-old man, from east London, died after an incident in Aldermaston on 6 July 2023.

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Beauty enthusiasts in Croatia finally have confirmation, Sephora is officially returning to the Croatian market, with the opening date now set.

Global beauty powerhouse Sephora will open its highly anticipated new store on 23 April at City Center one East in Zagreb.

The new store will span 220 square metres and for the first time, Croatian consumers will be able to explore Sephora's extensive portfolio of exclusive and internationally renowned brands in decorative cosmetics, skincare, haircare and fragrances.

Several brands within Sephora's global portfolio will make their Croatian debut and will be available exclusively through the retailer.

Sephora's return comes more than a decade after the brand closed its previous stores in Croatia.

This time, the retailer is introducing a fully updated concept aligned with its latest international standards.

Customers can expect a contemporary store design, digital mirrors and interactive features, personalised beauty consultations, expert advice from trained beauty consultants and a carefully curated, premium brand selection.

The company says its focus remains on combining innovation, creativity and personalised service, offering more than a retail space, but rather a complete beauty experience.

According to initial information, a second store is planned for Mall of Split.

Sign up to receive the Croatia Week Newsletter

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Sephora returns to Croatia with major store opening in April

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Beauty enthusiasts in Croatia finally have confirmation, Sephora is officially returning to the Croatian market, with the opening date now set. Global beauty powerhouse Sephora will open its highly anticipated new store on 23 April at City Center one East in Zagreb. The new store will span 220 squar

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Santander offers 98% mortgage for first-time buyers

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Santander offers 98% mortgage for first-time buyers

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Santander offers 98% mortgage for first-time buyers – with strict rules

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Fixed-rate loan will not be available on flats and new-builds, and loan must be no more than 4.45 times salary

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Pilots encouraged to apply for Jet2 funded training programmes

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Pilots encouraged to apply for Jet2 funded training programmes

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It will give at least 60 aspiring pilots the opportunity to fly for the airline without having to self-fund the £100,000-plus cost of training

Have you ever fancied a career in the sky?

After a phenomenal response to its inaugural programme last year, Jet2.com has today announced that it has reopened its Jet2FlightPath programme for 2026.

Jet2FlightPath will give at least 60 aspiring pilots the opportunity to fly for the award-winning airline without having to self-fund the £100,000-plus cost of flight training.
'I was a Ryanair flight attendant and there's two plane seats to avoid booking' Simple and easy Ryanair 'seat switch' app hack that saves passengers money
The programme was first launched in May 2025 and as a result, 60 candidates from all backgrounds are already working their way through a fully funded 18-month Airline Transport Pilot Licence training course on their way to becoming a pilot.

A spokesperson said: "With funding provided by Jet2.com, the programme aims to continue boosting social mobility and promoting diversity within the pilot community.

"To apply, candidates need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths and a science subject, or equivalent qualifications - meaning Jet2FlightPath continues to be more accessible than other programmes.

"After a selection process which includes assessments and interviews, successful candidates will be invited to take their place on a fully funded 18-month Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) training course in the UK, Spain or United States, with courses starting this year.

"Upon completion of the ATPL course, trainees will then be offered Type Rating training on either an Airbus or Boeing aircraft, before becoming a Jet2.com pilot. Jet2.com continues to work alongside three partners to deliver this training - Skyborne Airline Academy, Leading Edge and FTE Jerez."

With data showing that between 4-6% of pilots worldwide are women, the programme is already playing a positive role in boosting diversity within the pilot community, with over 20% of successful candidates from the first year being female.

In total, Jet2.com received 18,000 applications for 60 places in the first year, with successful candidates coming from a range of backgrounds. Those on the programme include school leavers, university graduates, ex-schoolteachers and former police workers.

Ellie Wagg, who is one of the trainees on the inaugural Jet2Flight programme, having previously worked for the NHS in Northamptonshire, said: "Becoming a commercial airline pilot feels like a dream I never let myself have.

"As a child, I was fascinated by aviation, but it wasn't until later in life that I found the confidence to chase what once felt out of reach. Jet2FlightPath has made this career accessible to me, as the financial requirements of training were always the biggest barrier, so this funded pathway has removed that worry completely.

"It still doesn't feel real, but I feel incredibly privileged and grateful to be starting this new chapter with Skyborne and Jet2.com."

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2 said: "We are delighted to reopen applications for Jet2FlightPath after a phenomenal response to the first year of the programme.

"Our fully-funded pilot training programme helps overcome the cost of training and is already making the dream of flying a reality for many who thought it was beyond their means.

"We are very proud of the success that the programme is already having in terms of opening up flying for everyone, and we look forward to receiving applications for this year."
For further information, visit: www.jet2careers.com/pilot-careers/jet2flightpath/
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Aspiring NI pilots encouraged to apply for Jet2 fully-funded training programme

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It will give at least 60 aspiring pilots the opportunity to fly for the airline without having to self-fund the £100,000-plus cost of training

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Is eating out too expensive now? Families say higher prices put them off

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The restaurant industry says it is facing a double whammy - rising costs and customers with less money.

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UK unemployment at the highest rate for 5 years 

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UK unemployment at the highest rate for 5 years 

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UK unemployment hits 5.2%, highest rate for nearly five years

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It marks the highest rate since the Covid pandemic, official figures show.

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World Cup: Pubs to open late for home nations knockout games

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Football fans will be able to enjoy an extra round at the pub thanks to new rules during the men’s World Cup.

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Airbus ‘committing a lot of cash’ to Belfast operation

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Airbus finalised a deal to buy part of the Spirit Aerosystems facility in east Belfast in December 2025.

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Sports supplement sales surge in the New Year 

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Sports supplement sales surge in the New Year 

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New Year’s sport supplement buying drives January retail sales surge

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Continuing strong sales from online jewellers after a recent spike in gold prices also helped drive the increase.

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Asda wins the award for cheapest supermarket...?!

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Asda wins the award for cheapest supermarket...?!

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Asda cheapest supermarket as guest M&S just edges out Waitrose

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Asda came in cheapest, its pledge last month to offer more than 2,300 everyday products at lower prices than full-range rivals paying off

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Santander cycles outage leaves users unable to hire bikes 

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Santander cycles outage leaves users unable to hire bikes 

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Santander Cycles outage leaves users unable to hire bikes

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The disruption meant that riders were unable to unlock the bikes from docking stations.

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This is why you don't accept sweets from strangers...

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This is why you don't accept sweets from strangers...

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Three British Airways cabin crew members were taken to the hospital after consuming gummies containing marijuana given by a passenger. The unsuspecting crew had an "out of body experience" after eating the sweets that contained up to 300mg of THC -- the main component of cannabis that produces the psychoactive effect.

Fortunately, the staff ate the gummies after the flight from Heathrow had landed in Los Angeles last week, according to a report in the . The tired staff consumed the gummies in the crew bus but quickly realised something was wrong with them. By the time they reached the hotel, three staffers started feeling out of control and became panicked and scared.

The staffers were immediately taken to the hospital for treatment as their symptoms worsened. While the crew was treated, British Airways pressed a new team into service, which operated the return flight to London.

The impacted crew were flown back on another service day later as passengers. The airline has launched a search to find the passenger who supplied the staff with the drugged sweets.

"A small number of our crew reported feeling unwell at their hotel and have since recovered. We sent a replacement crew to operate the return flight and there was no impact on our customers," British Airways said in a statement.
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A source stated that it was not unusual for passengers to offer sweets to the flight crew as a token of thanks. However, it was fortunate that they didn't end up eating the gummies when the plane was soaring high in the sky.

"It is a godsend in this case the sweets in question were not shared out among the crew until they had arrived in the US," the source said.

"Some people might find this incident funny, but it is being treated very seriously by BA. If an entire crew became incapacitated at 30,000ft after ingesting deadly drugs the consequences don't bear thinking about."

The passenger who handed out the weed-laced sweets 'could face multiple police charges' if caught by the authorities.

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Three British Airways Crew Members Hospitalised After Consuming Marijuana Gummies

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Three British Airways cabin crew members were hospitalised after consuming marijuana gummies given by a passenger following a Heathrow to Los Angeles flight.

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Watchdog backs easyJet holidays over price comparison complaints 

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Watchdog backs easyJet holidays over price comparison complaints 

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Watchdog backs easyJet holidays over On the Beach price comparison complaints

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Argument over ‘£592 cheaper’ claim on near identical holiday

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Yusen Group to add 90 thousand tonnes of tissue capacity by 2027

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Three new 3,500 mm lines in Tai’an, Liaoning and Chongxin will make facial and toilet tissue for China’s domestic market.

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Oatly loses long-running ‘milk’ battle with dairy lobby

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The plant-based drink maker can no longer use the term ‘milk’ to market its products.

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While the letter acknowledges that the organisation responded quickly to a crippling cyber-attack that interrupted trading for three weeks and cost £206m in lost sales, it insists that actions to respond to media reports of empty shelves by restocking them with whatever product was available, however inappropriate, led to a fall in sales and profits while food waste escalated.

One person close to the situation told the BBC: "We were sending parsnips, which we could get, to fill the shelf space of steak, which we couldn't."

A Co-op spokesperson told the BBC: "Given the challenging nature of these events, we had to make many difficult and decisive choices."

Despite the disruption of the cyber-attack, the Co-op pressed ahead with major restructuring plans to merge its retail, wholesale and third-party buying functions into a single unit called Group Commercial and Logistics (GCL).

This was despite warnings from experienced staff that it would cause disruption to the business and create confusion with suppliers to a group with a total of £9bn in turnover.

Senior managers have told the BBC they believe that the ongoing decline in operating performance can no longer be explained by the impact of last year's cyber-attack and is a result of poor decisions, including the reorganisation and consolidation of its buying functions into GCL.

The Co-op has recorded declining monthly sales compared to last year every month since July 2025 and is one of the worst performers in the grocery sector, according to closely followed industry benchmarks which show its share of the overall grocery market near record lows.

A spokesperson for the Co-op said the group had a solid financial position with reduced debt levels compared to five years ago and cash reserves providing "significant financial headroom".

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Senior Co-op staff complain of 'toxic' culture at the top

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Lawyers for the Co-op said they do not believe the complaints represent the broader views of staff

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Lloyds will have 610 branches remaining once all the announced closures are complete.

A spokesperson for Lloyds said: "Customers want the freedom to bank in the way that works for them and we offer more choice and ways to manage money than ever before."

More than 21 million customers use Lloyds' apps as their main way to bank, the spokesperson added.

Less than two weeks ago, Santander said it was closing a further 44 branches, putting 291 jobs at risk.

Banking apps and an increasing number of services provided remotely have led to less use of branches by customers, and closure programmes across the UK.

However, late last year, the UK's biggest building society, the Nationwide, pledged to keep all of its 696 branches open until at least 2030, although it too has closed branches in the past.

Banking hubs see banks share premises and serve customers from across the spectrum. A number of new sites have opened, but at a slower rate than the closure of individual bank branches.

The full list of Lloyds' branches closing is as follows:

Lloyds Bank - Aberdare

Lloyds Bank - Altrincham

Lloyds Bank - Birkenhead

Lloyds Bank - Birmingham, Blackheath

Lloyds Bank - Birmingham, Bordesley Green

Lloyds Bank - Birmingham, Highters Heath

Lloyds Bank - Birmingham, Upper Kingstanding

Lloyds Bank - Bournemouth

Lloyds Bank - Bristol, Fishponds

Lloyds Bank - Cardiff, Victoria Park

Lloyds Bank - City of London, Cheapside

Lloyds Bank - Clevedon

Lloyds Bank - Coalville

Lloyds Bank - Crowborough

Lloyds Bank - Daventry

Lloyds Bank - Didcot

Lloyds Bank - Ebbw vale

Lloyds Bank - Golders Green

Lloyds Bank - Heswall

Lloyds Bank - Hinckley

Lloyds Bank - Hoddesdon

Lloyds Bank - Honiton

Lloyds Bank - Horncastle

Lloyds Bank - Hull, Hessle Road

Lloyds Bank - Hull, Ings Road

Lloyds Bank - Kingswinford

Lloyds Bank - Lancaster

Lloyds Bank - Llangefni

Lloyds Bank - London, Camberwell

Lloyds Bank - London, Fitzrovia

Lloyds Bank - London, London Bridge

Lloyds Bank - London, Streatham

Lloyds Bank - London, Victoria

Lloyds Bank - London, West End

Lloyds Bank - Lymington

Lloyds Bank - Moreton-in-Marsh

Lloyds Bank - Newmarket (Suffolk)

Lloyds Bank - Norwich, Aylsham Road

Lloyds Bank - Reading, Woodley

Lloyds Bank - Redhill

Lloyds Bank - Ringwood

Lloyds Bank - Sevenoaks

Lloyds Bank - Southam

Lloyds Bank - Staines-upon-Thames

Lloyds Bank - Stoke-on-Trent, Longton

Lloyds Bank - Street (Somerset)

Lloyds Bank - Swansea, Winch Wen

Lloyds Bank - Tewkesbury

Lloyds Bank - Uttoxeter

Lloyds Bank - Wareham

Lloyds Bank - Wednesbury

Lloyds Bank - West Byfleet

Lloyds Bank - Wolverhampton, Tettenhall

Halifax - Ashington

Halifax - Ashton-under-Lyne

Halifax - Billingham

Halifax - Bognor Regis

Halifax - Bridgend

Halifax - Cardiff, Roath

Halifax - Chichester

Halifax - Chorley

Halifax - Croydon

Halifax - Cwmbran

Halifax - Doncaster, Armthorpe

Halifax - Ellesmere Port

Halifax - Goole

Halifax - Greenford

Halifax - Halesowen

Halifax - Horsham

Halifax - Leeds, Bramley

Halifax - Liverpool, Hunts Cross Shopping Park

Halifax - London, Hammersmith

Halifax - London, Pentonville

Halifax - London, Surrey Docks

Halifax - Manchester, Didsbury

Halifax - Mexborough

Halifax - Nottingham, Beeston

Halifax - Nottingham, West Bridgford

Halifax - Shipley

Halifax - Skelmersdale

Halifax - Southgate

Halifax - Sutton Coldfield

Halifax - Thornaby-on-Tees

Halifax - Torquay, Lymington Road

Bank of Scotland - Aberdeen, Bridge Of Don

Bank of Scotland - Balivanich

Bank of Scotland - Blairgowrie

Bank of Scotland - Broughty Ferry

Bank of Scotland - Glasgow, Baillieston

Bank of Scotland - Haddington

Bank of Scotland - Kelso

Bank of Scotland - Lochgilphead

Bank of Scotland - Penicuik, John Street

Bank of Scotland - Rutherglen

Bank of Scotland - Stonehaven

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Lloyds Banking Group to close another 95 branches

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The closures have been announced days after Santander said it would shut branches.

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Robotics firms struggle to develop hands

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Robotics firms struggle to develop hands

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Get a grip: Robotics firms struggle to develop hands

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Developing a durable and affordable hand is one of the biggest challenges in robotics.

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Rise in half-term holiday bookings after wet January 

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Rise in half-term holiday bookings after wet January 

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Rise in half-term holiday bookings after rainy January

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Rain plus the political environment is creating a “powerful psychological need for escape”, travel agents say.

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Netflix & Paramount battle for Warner Bros. 

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Netflix & Paramount battle for Warner Bros. 

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Netflix and Paramount battle for Warner Bros. Who is likely to win?

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What to know about the two firms’ blockbuster battle to control Warner Bros Discovery.

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And so he should be... he was not nice to Gary! 

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And so he should be... he was not nice to Gary! 

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Robbie Williams says ‘I’m full of shame’ over Take That Netflix documentary

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Robbie Williams addressed the new Take That documentary as he took to the stage in Liverpool

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Emirates eyes second daily flight between Dubai and Glasgow 

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Emirates eyes second daily flight between Dubai and Glasgow 

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Emirates Eyes Second Daily Flight To This Iconic European Destination

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The airline is continuing to add to its service network.

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DPD driver caught faking delivery of £1200 iPhone

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DPD driver caught faking delivery of £1200 iPhone

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DPD fire driver caught on camera ‘faking delivery of £1,200 iPhone’

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Samuel Taylor ordered a £1,264 iPhone 17 Pro Max but was shocked when he never received it

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Qatar's growth in Indian tourist arrivals grows by 6-7%

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Qatar's growth in Indian tourist arrivals grows by 6-7%

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Qatar Eyes Remarkable 6-7% Growth in Indian Tourist Arrivals by 2026 with Qatar Airways Leading the Way in Unstoppable Connectivity and Unforgettable Travel Experiences - Travel And Tour World

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Qatar is poised to achieve an impressive 6-7% growth in Indian tourist arrivals by 2026, driven by the country’s dynamic tourism strategy and Qatar Airways’ expanding global network.

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Nike probed over workers' discrimination claims 

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Nike probed over workers' discrimination claims 

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US probes Nike over white workers’ discrimination claims

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Court documents allege the sportswear company treated white employees less favourably.

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Sephora partners with Australian basketball league 

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Sephora partners with Australian basketball league 

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Sephora, WNBL fuses beauty and basketball in new partnership - MARKETECH APAC

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Sephora Australia has partnered with the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) as its official beauty partner for the 2026-2027 season, supporting initiatives around confidence, self-expression, and diversity in women's sport.

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Santander to pay eligible customers up to £150

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Santander has also outlined when the cash will be distributed

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Warner Bros. unveils alpine studios for 2026 Olympics coverage 

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Warner Bros. unveils alpine studios for 2026 Olympics coverage 

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Warner Bros. Discovery has unveiled two custom-built studios in the Italian Alps that will serve as the broadcast hub for its European coverage of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

The media giant's main facility, dubbed "WBD House," sits in the heart of Cortina d'Ampezzo's Nations Village, offering a 600-square-meter, two-story setup featuring 217 steel and glass pieces. The structure incorporates high-resolution exterior cameras designed to showcase panoramic views of the Dolomites and nearby Olympic venues, including the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, the Tofane Alpine Skiing Centre and the new Cortina Sliding Centre.

The flagship studio will deploy 12 cameras, including jib, drone, RF and Steadicam units, along with three exterior XR cameras for virtual set extensions. A 90-person crew will support productions targeting audiences across Italy, Germany, Poland and Norway, with additional teams from France, the Netherlands, Denmark and the U.K. stationed on-site.

WBD's second facility, the "Snow Dome" in Livigno, features a striking six-meter-high domed structure with 95 square meters of space and 360-degree mountain views. Built in collaboration with Livigno's local organizing committee, the studio will cover freestyle skiing and snowboard competitions.

The Italian studios will complement WBD's permanent facilities across Europe, including its mixed-reality curve studio in London and production hubs in Paris, Milan, Munich, Madrid, Oslo, Stockholm, Lisbon, Copenhagen, Hilversum and Warsaw.

"As the home of the Olympics in Europe, our ambition is to provide viewers with an authentic taste of Italy through the most immersive production possible," said Scott Young, executive VP at WBD Sports Europe. "Our studios will deliver a truly unique viewing experience to fans while maximising opportunities for our expert presenters and reporters to get even closer to the action while telling the stories of the incredible athletes competing."

WBD has assembled an extensive roster of Olympic talent for the Games, including alpine skiing medalists Tina Maze, Viktoria Rebensburg, Johan Clarey and Kristian Ghedina; six-time Olympic luge gold medalist Natalie Geisenberger; bobsleigh champion Kevin Kuske; cross-country skiing champion Justyna Kowalczyk-Tekieli; and ice hockey medalists Håkan Södergren and Mats Sundin. Olympic snowboarder Aimee Fuller and former Olympic freestyle skier Elisa Nakab will report from the Livigno studio.

WBD's first live studio broadcast from Italy aired Feb. 6 ahead of the opening ceremony in Milan. Olympic competition began Feb. 4 and concludes Feb. 22.

HBO Max and Discovery+ will stream every event live, while Eurosport will provide pan-European television coverage and TNT Sports will broadcast in the U.K. and Ireland.

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Warner Bros. Discovery Unveils Alpine Studios for Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics Coverage

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Warner Bros. Discovery has unveiled two studios in the Italian Alps that will serve as the hub for its European coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics.

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Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, today announces that it has been awarded the £315 million seven-year Warwickshire Highways Maintenance contract by Coventry City Council, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and Warwickshire County Council.

The new contract marks the company's third consecutive term delivering the Warwickshire Highways Maintenance contract, taking the unique partnership through to Spring 2033. There is an option to extend the contract by a further six-years based on the successful delivery of the initial term, worth up to a total value of £900 million.

Balfour Beatty Living Places - Balfour Beatty's local road maintenance, street lighting and public‑realm service provider - will be responsible for delivering a variety of road maintenance services to over 5,000 kilometres of roads as well as cyclical maintenance to over 55,000 streetlights.

The award follows a strong track record of performance spanning effective asset management, value for money, and close collaboration with the three local authorities since 2011.

Balfour Beatty Living Places will implement an integrated, digitally enabled operating model with a centralised planning and permitting system; consolidating programme, performance and operational data to strengthen council oversight and enable future AI‑enabled improvements in inspections, winter planning and reactive service delivery.

Philip Hoare, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, said: "This award reflects the confidence and trust our customers place in Balfour Beatty. Over the last fifteen years, we have worked collaboratively with our local authority partners to build a strategic infrastructure partnership that combines effective asset management and improving services to deliver strong, measurable outcomes.

"Long term partnerships such as this are critical to the delivery of essential infrastructure, enabling sustained investment in people and services so that we can provide better outcomes for communities."

The contract will commence in Spring 2026 and at peak, will employ a workforce of c.160, including multiple graduate and apprenticeship positions.
ENDS
Analyst/investor enquiries:
Jim Ryan
Tel. +44 (0)785 836 8527
jim.ryan@balfourbeatty.com

Media enquiries:
Vivienne Dunn
Tel. +44 (0)203 810 2345
vivienne.dunn@balfourbeatty.com

All non-media related enquiries should be directed to +44 (0)20 7216 6800 or info@balfourbeatty.com

Notes to editors:

Balfour Beatty is a leading international infrastructure group with 27,000 employees driving the delivery of powerful new solutions, shaping thinking, creating skylines and inspiring a new generation of talent to be the change-makers of tomorrow.

We finance, develop, build, maintain and operate the increasingly complex and critical infrastructure that supports national economies and deliver projects at the heart of local communities.

For over 115 years, we have created iconic buildings and infrastructure all over the world. Currently, we are working to deliver Hinkley Point C, the first UK nuclear power station in a generation; constructing the world-class arts and cultural facility, the Lyric Theatre, in Hong Kong; and designing, building, financing, operating and maintaining the Automated People Mover superstructure at the fifth busiest airport in the world, Los Angeles International Airport.

Balfour Beatty Living Places works in long-term partnerships with local authorities to create great places to live, work and play. We work with local people to understand the need of the communities we work in and shape the places where local economies can thrive and grow. As a leader in sustainable solutions and social value, we use our expertise to bring about real, positive change for our customers and the communities we operate in.

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Balfour Beatty secures £315 million Warwickshire Highways Maintenance contract

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Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, today announces that it has been awarded the £315 million seven-year Warwickshire Highways Maintenance contract.

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'Closing down the Bedfordshire warehouse is catastrophic' 

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'Closing down the Bedfordshire warehouse is catastrophic' 

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Councillor says Amazon closing first UK site is ‘catastrophic’

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Independent council leader Adam Zerny says there were discussions with Amazon ahead of the decision.

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GXO Selected to Manage Operations at BMW Group’s Swindon Site

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GXO expands into the Industrial sector with new partnership GXO sets out to drive greater supply chain efficiency, innovation and resilience within the…

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We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.

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Lidl beats Aldi to become highest-paying supermarket in UK - InternetRetailing

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Lidl GB has announced an additional £29 million investment in employee pay that enables it to claim the title of UK's highest-paying supermarket.

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Pandora switching to platinum from silver as prices surge

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The jeweller says it wants to reduce its exposure to silver after the price of the metal soars.

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Moment British Airways plane loses wheel during take-off in Las Vegas

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Dramatic footage shows wheel falling off a British Airways aircraft shortly after take-off from Harry Reid International airport.

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Warner Bros. Discovery Partners With X On Winter Olympics

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Warner Bros. Discovery Partners With X On Winter Olympics

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Warner Bros. Discovery Partners With X On Winter Olympics

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Warner Bros. Discovery has partnered with X & TikTok on the Winter Olympics for brands and advertisers.

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Nestlé and GXO showcase investment in innovation

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Nestlé and GXO showcase investment in innovation

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JD Sports to let shoppers buy through AI platforms

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JD Sports to let shoppers buy through AI platforms

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Henry Saker-Clark PA Deputy Business Editor

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JD Sports to enable shoppers to buy products through AI platforms like Copilot

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Sportswear giant partnering with Commercetools and payment firm Stripe to allow one-click purchases through AI platforms, starting with Microsoft Copilot

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Boeing reports highest quarterly revenue since 2018

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Boeing reports highest quarterly revenue since 2018

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Boeing reports highest quarterly revenue since 2018

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US aviation group marks second consecutive period of positive free cash flow

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Marks & Spencer is the UK’s strongest brand for a fourth consecutive year, according to YouGov data, with WhatsApp topping the global ranking.

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B&M and The Works hit by tough Christmas trading

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Retailers report weaker sales over festive period amid ‘subdued consumer confidence’

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"We always have some large cabin bags available for the lowest price. In light of the ASA's feedback we have made some changes to the page to ensure the information is as clear as possible for consumers."

It said the wording on the website was meant to inform customers that £5.99 was the starting point for adding carry-on bags and it was an accurate price on several routes.

The airline said the fact there were no bags available for less than that price meant the claim was not misleading.

Responding to the complaint from Which?, the ASA said it expected to see evidence that large cabin bags could be booked for £5.99 but EasyJet did not provide this.

It said consumers would take the "from £5.99" claim to mean that large cabin bags would be available for that price "across a significant proportion of flight routes and dates".

As a result, the watchdog ruled the claim was misleading and told EasyJet not to use that wording in future.

EasyJet informed the ASA that the section of its website where this claim appeared was intended for information purposes, not marketing or promotion.

The airline's website now states: "Fees vary with demand, route, flight date and time of booking. You'll see exact price at time of purchase."

The airline said it was "not able to provide specific figures" because cabin bag prices depend on a number of factors including availability and demand.

It said that customers would clearly see the actual price of a cabin bag when they were booking a flight.

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EasyJet ad banned for claiming bags available for £5.99

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The airline said the fact there were no bags available for less than £5.99 meant the claim was not misleading.

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Zuckerberg said on Wednesday that he is expecting "2026 to be the year that AI dramatically changes the way we work."

His comments came as Meta's figures showed expenses rose faster than revenues, which squeezed profit margins, during the last three months of 2025.

Meta shares were around 6.5% higher in extended trading in New York after the announcement.

In addition to explaining the potential benefits of such massive AI investment, Zuckerberg's comments seemed to hint at further layoffs at the tech giant.

"We're starting to see projects that used to take big teams now be accomplished by a single, very talented person," he said.

Already this year, Meta has laid off several hundred workers mainly in its Reality Labs division, a part of the company that focuses on its "metaverse" ambitions, hardware products and AI initiatives.

Zuckerberg said Meta is investing more across the company in AI tools that help employees like software engineers complete more work.

As workers use the tools to become "significantly more productive," he said there is "a big delta between the people who do it and do it well and the people who don't."

"What we were talking about is, I think it's very hard for anyone exactly to predict what the shape of how organisations working is going to feel, but I just think the fact that agents are really starting to work now is quite profound," he added.

Some in the industry warn that such major investments risk creating an AI bubble, similar to one seen in the dotcom boom that peaked in 2000.

Chuck Robbins, chairman and chief executive of Cisco Systems, told the BBC that while AI could end up "bigger than the internet", the current market is probably a bubble and some companies "won't make it".

JPMorgan Chase boss Jamie Dimon has voiced similar concerns, while Google CEO Sundar Pichai said there was some "irrationality" to the AI boom.

Sam Altman, whose company OpenAI kicked off the current obsession with AI in the tech industry, was more direct.

"Are we in a phase where investors as a whole are overexcited about AI? My opinion is yes," he said last year.

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Meta: Facebook-owner to nearly double AI spending

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Mark Zuckerberg's spending plans hint at further layoffs and changes within Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

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Santander to shut 44 branches and put 291 jobs at risk

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The high-street lender is the latest to announce a swathe of branch closures.

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‘Benidorm flight left us behind as we were trapped on stairs’

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Marie Casey, 63, says passengers were shocked and disgusted after a Jet 2 flight left without them.

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Apple to revamp Siri as a built-in chatbot 

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Apple to revamp Siri as a built-in chatbot 

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Jan 21 (Reuters) - Apple (AAPL.O), opens new tab plans to revamp Siri later this year by turning the digital assistant into the company's first artificial intelligence chatbot, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday.

The chatbot, code named Campos, will be embedded deeply into the iPhone, iPad and Mac operating systems and will replace the current Siri interface, the report said, citing people familiar with the plan.

Sign up here.

Siri's revamp is a crucial part of Apple's strategy to catch up to its Big Tech peers in the AI race after its initial "Apple Intelligence" rollout in 2024 met with lukewarm reception.

Earlier this month, Apple struck a deal with Google to use its Gemini models to power Siri, in a major win for the Alphabet-owned firm that also has its own line of smartphones.

Campos will run a higher-end version of the custom Google model, comparable to Gemini 3, that is known internally as Apple Foundation Models version 11, according to the report.

The chatbot capabilities will come later in the year and Campos, which will have both voice- and typing-based modes, will be the primary new addition to Apple's upcoming operating systems, the report said.

Separately, the Information on Wednesday reported Apple is developing an AI-powered wearable pin that is equipped with multiple cameras, a speaker, microphones and wireless charging. The device could be released as early as 2027, the report said.

Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on both the reports.

Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab

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Apple to revamp Siri as a built-in chatbot, Bloomberg News reports

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Apple plans to revamp Siri later this year by turning the digital assistant into the company's first artificial intelligence chatbot, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday.

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Amazon delivery driver caught stealing cat 

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Amazon delivery driver caught stealing cat 

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Sick cat taken by Amazon delivery driver is returned to Yorkshire family

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Family say Nora the cat, who has a heart murmur that requires medication, is safe and well and they are over the moon

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Emirates to develop new project to house 12,000 cabin crew 

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Emirates to develop new project to house 12,000 cabin crew 

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Emirates airline has signed an agreement with Dubai Investments Park to acquire land for a "multi-billion-dirham" development for cabin crew as it expands operations.

The Cabin Crew Village will also feature a multi-purpose hub with retail outlets, restaurants, fitness amenities, clinics, public spaces and parks.

Construction is expected to begin in the second quarter of this year, with the first phase scheduled for completion in 2029.

"The Cabin Crew Village will provide everything our crew need within a single, thoughtfully planned development," said Ali Al Soori, chief procurement and facilities officer at Emirates.

The development "also represents a strategic investment in Emirates' future, supporting our transition plans to Al Maktoum International and continued growth in the years ahead".

Inside Emirates: Boeing delays, Airbus talks and leadership tips with Sir Tim Clark

Dubai is building a new terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, with a total investment of Dh128 billion ($34.8 billion) to boost its capacity to 260 million passengers annually when complete.

The first phase of the airport project is expected to be ready by 2032, with the capacity to accommodate 150 million passengers annually.

Emirates is planning to invest up to $12 billion on its future home at the new terminal on infrastructure, including catering facilities and aircraft hangars, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said at the Dubai Airshow last year.

Emirates Group, which includes Emirates airline and ground-handling unit dnata, also revealed plans last year to hire 17,300 people across 350 roles to support the expansion of operations and bolster future capabilities.

The roles include cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, information technology, human resources and finance, it said in July.

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Emirates airline to develop 'multi-billion dirham' project to house 12,000 cabin crew | The National

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Development at Dubai Investments Park will consist of 20 residential buildings

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How Slovakia became the worlds no1 carmaker

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How Slovakia became the worlds no1 carmaker

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How tiny Slovakia became a car making heavyweight

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The European country is the biggest autos manufacturer relative to the size of its population.

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Heathrow scraps 100ml liquid container limit

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Heathrow says it has become the biggest airport to drop the limit after rolling out new high-tech scanners.

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Over summer 2025, casual and fast-food restaurants saw a 6% drop in customers compared to the previous summer, according to research from Worldpanel by Numerator.

In December, trade body UKHospitality warned the hospitality sector could lose a further 100,000 workers as a result of the Autumn Budget.

The government has said it is "protecting pubs, restaurants and cafés with the Budget's £4.3bn support package".

Last month, the High Street food chain Leon said it will close 20 restaurants and cut jobs as part of a major restructure.

Its co-founder said he believed the company had drifted from its core values under EG and Asda's leadership, and also cited internal challenges, changing work patterns driven by the Covid pandemic and tax increases - all of which have affected the broader hospitality sector.

Leon's administration process comes after Pizza Hut's UK restaurants operator DC London Pie announced it was closing 68 restaurants and 11 delivery sites in October, making more than 1,200 workers redundant.

Administrators said DC London Pie had been hit by a combination of "challenging trading conditions and increased costs", including "tax-related obligations".

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TGI Fridays closes 16 UK stores, with 456 job losses

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The UK restaurant chain's remaining 33 restaurants will stay open after a rescue deal was reached.

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Amazon plans to close site in Bedfordshire

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Amazon plans to close site in Bedfordshire

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Amazon plans to close the first UK site it opened in Bedfordshire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The online retail company says staff will be redeployed and it will listen “to everyone’s views”.

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Weight loss jabs; an opportunity for Leon?

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Weight loss jabs; an opportunity for Leon?

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ByEmer Moreau and Jemma Crew, Business reporters

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Weight loss jabs are ‘opportunity’ for Leon, boss says

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
John Vincent says the chain could benefit from the weight loss trend, and sets out his plans to revive the business.

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ByOsmond Chia, Business reporter and Danielle Kaye, Business reporter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
China’s BYD overtakes Tesla as world’s top EV seller

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It marks the first time the Chinese firm has outpaced its American rival for annual sales.

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Junk food TV & advert ban comes into force

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Junk food TV & advert ban comes into force

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Junk food TV and online advert ban comes into force

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Soft drinks, chocolate, pizzas and ice creams will be targeted in the UK government’s plan.

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Car giant Hyundai to use human-like robots in factories

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The firm plans to deploy the technology at the same plant that was involved in a huge immigration raid in 2025.

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Next raises profit forecast after strong Christmas sales

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Festive trading at the retailer beat expectations, but rising unemployment is expected to weigh on demand this year.

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The Enhanced English Unit is open to all students who wish to boost their general English ability.

You can attend in person on the Luton campus or online and classes start w/c 29th September.

If you have any questions about the sessions, please email paul.owens@beds.ac.uk or speak to a member of the FY team.

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Academic support hours are times that you will be able to find your Course and Unit Coordinators to discuss matters related to your studies that you might not raise in class.

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Looking for support? Need an extra helping hand? Got a question about your work?  The university has new Academic Success Tutors to help you find your feet and have the best University experience that you can.  Get in contact with Patricia via email to see how she can assist you Check out the video here: AST Jackie Vickers.mp 4

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Want to feel more confident in your academic work? The PAD team are here to help!

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Skills for Success | University of Bedfordshire

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Whether you’re looking to develop new study strategies, engage with interactive resources, or enhance your critical thinking skills, this page provides the tools to take your learning to the next level.

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Luton campus | University of Bedfordshire

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Our Luton campus is located right in the heart of the town centre. It boasts our brand-new, seven-storey library, Postgraduate and CPD Centre, as well as an array of fantastic modern facilities to support each of the courses on offer at the Luton campus.

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Luton campus | University of Bedfordshire

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Our Luton campus is located right in the heart of the town centre. It boasts our brand-new, seven-storey library, Postgraduate and CPD Centre, as well as an array of fantastic modern facilities to support each of the courses on offer at the Luton campus.

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Welcome Week for New Students LUTON -  week commencing 14th September 2026

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Welcome Week for New Students LUTON -  week commencing 14th September 2026

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Welcome Week Timetable for FY (Luton) (1)

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Linda Hopkins-West

Read my bio here Linda Hopkins-West | University of Bedfordshire (beds.ac.uk)

Portfolio Leader foundation studies/ Unit Co-ordinator FYS009-0 Developing a Business Radar

Contact me at linda.West@beds.ac.uk

Nicola Lay-Flurrie

Read my bio here Nicola Lay-Flurrie | University of Bedfordshire (beds.ac.uk)

Unit Co-ordinator FYS008-0 A Students’ Guide to Being Curious & Competent

Contact me at nicola.Lay-Flurrie@beds.ac.uk

Mohammed Aftab Mohiudin

Unit Co-ordinator FYS010-0 Credibility & Your Professional Future

Contact me at mohammed.mohiudin@beds.ac.uk

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Email Patricia on patricia.kuevi@beds.ac.uk 

# data[].attributes.body
Looking for support? Need an extra helping hand? Got a question about your work?

The university has new Academic Success Tutors to help you find your feet and have the best University experience that you can.  Get in contact with Patricia via email to see how she can assist you

Check out the video here: Patricia Kuevi.mp4

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Your Student Rep....