MecaBounce · Storify

UK Business/Industry News November 2012

MecaBounce — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 14:46:52 GMT

Almost the end of this penultimate month of 2012. Some UK business news regarding various companies, manufacturers and industries.

Storified by MecaBounce · Thu, Nov 29 2012 06:46:52

Administrator set to close more Comet stores as jobs toll rises

The administrator to Comet has confirmed that it plans to close a further 125 stores over the coming weeks, which means that most of the ...

Who said recession was over again?

2,500 workers losing their jobs in an industry full-up with electrical goods! A slight paradox when so many are after flat screen TV and state-of-the-art tablets, headphones and headphones!

First British nuclear licence in 25 years to France's EDF

The Office for Nuclear Regulation granted the licence to NNB Generation Company, a subsidiary of the French utility's British arm EDF...

EDF is shaking the nuclear energy by having been allowed to build a new nuclear power station in 25 years. It will all take place in Somerset. The location has not been revealed as yet.

Cable declares Green Investment Bank 'open for business' - Telegraph

Speaking at the bank's headquarters in Edinburgh, the Business Secretary that the bank , which has been funded with £3bn of government mo...

The financial world is something complicated, confusing and intriguing but nevertheless interesting. It is a big machine where each percentage is important.

New iMac confirmed for November launch by Apple - Telegraph

The iMac was launched at the same press conference where Apple unveiled the iPad Mini, and the radical redesign of the desktop computer h...

There was the launch of the iPad mini but now it is the turn of the new iMac. Despite the economy, fans of Apple jump on the new products whatever the price tag. A kind of urge is calling them into the store to see, touch, feel and eventually buy this high-performance technology tool. But, do buyers actually need such powerful computer or is it more about the design and the aesthetics?!

More and more companies are actually adopting this type of equipment. Ditching the old PC for the minimal looking MacBook and iMac, even if they aren't a design studio or agency. This means that most offices are nowadays working online. No more typewriters, telex and other old fashioned way of communication. Even the phones have stopped ringing...online interaction via Skype or Lync have changed the framework of employers. The only remaining and necessary source is the usual socket which is vital for giving business electricity. However, when and if there is a power cut...everything is on standstill. Luckily this doesn't happen that often.

Jaguar Land Rover building factory in China | Business | guardian ...

Nov 18, 2012 ... Jaguar Land Rover building factory in China. Car firm to start manufacturing vehicles in world's largest automotiv...

When made in Britain are changing for made in China. Maybe cheaper labour but still a new factory is going to be built around Shanghai to open by 2015. Investments and close collaboration are the way forward it seems.

It has been declared that "...there were no plans to shift manufacturing out of the UK..."

Independent

I can't wait for the New Year! So many new business ventures ahead, I look forward into revamping the economy and creating JOBS.
— Haquan Huggins · Tue, Nov 27 2012 18:09:45

You can never go too far wrong by thinking like a customer who's new to the business http://virg.in/tla
— richardbranson · Wed, Nov 28 2012 05:19:45

Amazonaws

The image of your business can take various aspects. But what about THAT business card! Probably the only market, which helped the growth in the number of small businesses. This one sector continues to grow: 20 per cent increase between 2008 and 2010.

Technology has made business cards more interesting and easier to make than ever

One of the most famous scenes from the film version of Bret Easton Ellis's novel, American Psycho, sees Patrick Bateman, an investment ba...

Going freelance

MecaBounce — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:45:47 GMT

Working for someone else is good, but what about working for yourself? Setting up your own business? Tempting...

Storified by MecaBounce · Wed, Nov 21 2012 03:45:47

freelance - definition of freelance by the Free Online Dictionary ...

A person who sells services to employers without a long-term commitment to any of them. 2. An uncommitted independent, as in politics o...

A one stop shop platform for freelancers and employers

freelance.com helps freelance providers and employers that need to work reliably through one platform. More than 108283 profiles regist...

FreelanceSwitch | Freelance Jobs, Freelance Forum & Directory

17 hours ago ... FreelanceSwitch is a community of freelancers of all varieties. The site offers freelance job listings, a directory of...

#Fashion #Intern #Freelance #WebDesigner #Design #Creative #Editorial #Style #Luxury #Ecommerce #Retail #Brand #HouseofKnox #JobPost #Hire #Job #Role #Work #Business #Ideas #Growth #Progress · House of Knox Ltd

A few people like to make the jump and go freelance. It is all about having THAT particular knowledge and targeting a niche market with something different.

Time management is an important factor too.

Campaignasia

Web and graphic designers are the most common these days. Usually starting small and expanding because the digital world is growing fast.

A few years ago, it was expensive and complicated to have a simple webpage! Nowadays, you have various options from standard templates and cheap/free platforms such as Wordpress or Posterous, Tumblr, Blogger. Getting a custom made site or blog is not that pricey anymore!

Fees can go from £100 to £600 depending whether you are expecting various pages and the layout and logo to brand your business are important too.

Bupa

Being self-employed demands a lot of time and energy; especially when launching your company. Building a reputation and getting the first clients who will then spread the word of the good service you provide is vital. Having a "testimonial" section online is often forgotten.

So once established, the workload can become too important for one person. This is when things will become more interesting and sometimes complicated as well! Why? Employing, recruiting and sorting out a regular income for your new staff might not as easy as you think! But, usually if a second creative is needed it means enough work. Alternatively, you could sub-contract some work - meaning, having a pool of skilled people on standby. Consequently, no hassle or obligations. A kind of safety net to deliver the work on time when too much to do.

Going for that option will reduce cost of equipment and no extra office space needed. Working remotely or from home is a winner and conferences or calls can take place via Skype. Distance doesn't matter anymore.

The only think is that when at home you can become physically tired/lazy and going from the desk to the kitchen and back is not the best to stretch and get fitter. What about combining fun and exercise?

The Bupa Brisk Walk · Viddler

Small business health matters should be implemented because it is all about the wellbeing of the workforce. Asia is showing the Western World the right way with some daily movements.

Blogspot

"But when all in place, working without someone behind you asking questions and dropping extra unwanted tasks can only transform your lifestyle, as afterall you could work whenever you wish as long as the work is done for the promised deadline!

It is all about taking the right decision. Too many people dream of a better life but are scared to try or to fail. But it is sometimes worth taking this step rather than regretting it. Remember the saying "Nothing ventured nothing gained". Up to you to decide!

Zcache

When the lens captures unwanted details

MecaBounce — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 11:37:51 GMT

Nowadays cameras are just so powerful. Whether you use a compact or a DSLR, results are pin sharp!

Storified by MecaBounce · Wed, Oct 24 2012 04:37:51

Some people are so self-conscious that they don't wish to have their pictures taken.

Designofsignage

Others love to have their photos captured and published whether it is for fun or for professional use. There are so many online plarforms to show your work: pinterest, via.me, flickr, 500px, tumblr...and of course instagram.

#picstitch#lookatme#style #fashion#autumn #me · maggy_wonders

But when reaching the next level: celebrity or studio photography everything has to be perrrrrrrrfect! From tip to toe, there is no room for that killing detail.

However, sometimes even the best make-up artist can't hide the damages.

Celebrity cosmetic changes can go wrong, and these are irreversible!

Plastic surgery can bring odd results. All depends on the surgeon, the clinic and what the client is after...but sometimes it is pretty shocking.

The alternative and rather safer treatement is called dermal fillers! It is all done via injection to rejuvenate and refresh the lines around the eyes, lips and forehead - no knife action or incision.

The whole process usually takes less than 30 minutes.

So why going to the extreme for your wallet, your life and skin?

It is understandable that famous faces want to look good, young and spotless when portraits are taken or during major events such as a cinema première or award ceremonies!

But to quote Kahlil Gibran:

"Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart."

Visually uniqueness

MecaBounce — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 10:59:50 GMT

London offers a lot of places, museums, galleries, venues to discover, visit & explore. However, there are still some hidden gems, open occasionally.

Storified by MecaBounce · Fri, Oct 12 2012 03:59:50

18th Century Chinese wallpapers at Coutts Bank

Boningtons are delighted to be offering a private viewing of the 18th century Chinese wallpapers which decorate the walls of the board ro...

Boningtons are delighted to be offering a private viewing of the 18th century Chinese wallpapers which decorate the walls of the board room in Coutts Bank in London. An accompanying talk will discuss the history and artistic qualities of the wallpapers as well as addressing the main issues regarding the preservation of this particular type of Chinese painting.

The auction house is actually moving forward like most businesses and is also on social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook.

Boningtons (boningtons) on Twitter

@essexevents Boningtons Auctioneers in Loughton are holding two free ... Boningtons Auctioneers will feature on @AntiqueRoadTrip this e...

Antiques and Collectables Auction | Boningtons Auctions - Essex

Welcome to Boningtons Auctions, Essex. Antique fine arts, oil paintings, books, militaria, toys, swords and collectables Auction in Essex.

Be aware that this event taking place at Coutts London Head Office - 440 Strand, Covent Garden, London WC2R 0QS - is a free event BUT numbers are limited.

It is on Thursday 1st November 2012, 3.00pm – 4.00pm.

Asian Art in London - Calendar of events

Private Tour of the 18th Century Chinese wallpapers at Coutts Bank by Dr. Iside Carbone ... +44 (0) 8508 4800 admin@boningtons.com asia...

So, if you don't want to be disappointed or miss this visually uniqueness and prestigious event register your interest: 00 44 (0)208 508 4800 / by email admin@boningtons.com.

The London private bank likes to open its doors to unusual and different events. Remember in September, Coutts Skyline Garden (video below)!

Coutts London - Bank's Garden · Viddler

www.coutts.com

#British #Film industry boosting

MecaBounce — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 10:00:05 GMT

British Film Institute (BFI) announces scheme that will invest in British film and cinema up to 2017!

Storified by MecaBounce · Thu, Oct 04 2012 03:00:05

Wallace & Gromit - The Official Site

Welcome to Wallace and Gromit's cracking new website. If you like Wallace and Gromit then you're in the right place. You can wa...

Cracking job Gromit! · Iain.H

Wallace and Gromit - Aardman Animations

Wallace & Gromit - The Cheesesnatcher Part 1 (claymation) · Sonikaos

Arnolfini · Inside Encounters - Rhi Ellis

£500 million in a new five-year plan from the British Film Institute: that's great news.

Imagine if Britain had then an event such as the famous Cannes Film Festival or the slightly more private Deauville Film Festival (both in France).

As BFI chairman declared "the money will be focussed on investing outside London". This sounds ideal for other animations and films companies.

The prime example being Aardman Animations, based in Bristol.

skateboard morph · ghostsecurity28

It is looking good and rewarding too, to have some cash for other businesses outside the Big Smoke.

The people behind Aardman films are passionate about their work. One of them is even a speaker and a film maker: Gavin Strange is the person in question.

Dan Efergan & Gav Strange -- Aardman Animation · tedxbristol

Time to get the sketchbook out for a design for a secret brand X secret brand t-shirt, hope to reveal more soon!
— Gavin Strange · Wed, Oct 03 2012 14:13:12

JamFactory ~ Online portfolio of Gavin Strange

Hello, my name is Gavin Strange and this is my corner of the internet. I'm a designer living here in beautiful Bristol, by day i wo...

It's Thursday, so that means it's a #ChipShopRide! Meet at A Fair Cup opposite Hippodrome at 7pm for chips & chat, fixies & fish!
— BÖIKZMÖIND · Thu, Oct 04 2012 02:10:39

BOIKZMOIND (BÖIKZMÖIND) Trailer · jamfactory

The 30 minutes film/documentary about Bristol fixed gear and single speed scene is....unique. A lot of effort, passion, blood and sweat to give birth to probably a reference regarding this urban culture, near the skateboards but not quite yet!

A true commitment to achieve a well made and finished product with all relevant details from the packaging to the logo!

Boikzmoind

What is rather impressive is that such film was made on a tight budget with friends around to help out. No real huge budget such as a Hollywood production Spielberg style. There was for sure a financial planning in place: what can be spend and how much is the limit. Keeping all receipts and invoices was something important to manage the finances.

Now, with the news that a £500 million will boost the British film business...imagine what could happen with local talents!

Indoor Garden "living & breathing"

MecaBounce — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 10:26:06 GMT

Becoming green: something that so many people want, wish and talk about. But having a full garden means putting time and effort to maintain it too. It is not just about planting.

Storified by MecaBounce · Wed, Sep 12 2012 03:26:06

Bank grows its own produce: CNN's Richard Quest talks economic crisis over vegetables grown in the Coutts Bank garden.
— Almeta Stotts · Tue, Sep 11 2012 15:18:03

Coutts London - Bank's Garden · Viddler

Coutts has been voted "United Kingdom - Best for Corporate Executives" in the Euromoney Private Banking Survey 2008! And Chef Peter Fiori is dedicated to producing quality food, regularly giving up his free time to work in some of the top restaurants in order to keep up to date with new ideas and techniques He has been at Coutts for over 6 years and transformed the service and style of food.

Aim in life is to get the Coutts World Card! #ballin #BOSS #bigmoney
— Vish · Wed, Sep 12 2012 01:59:53

The bank has a rooftop garden...hard to imagine such thing...but why not? It is by being different that you attract attention and interest from others.

Remember Eden Project: a few years ago a lot of people thought it was a daft idea to grow vegetables and tropical trees under various domes in deep and hidden Westcountry and more precisely in Cornwall.

E-architect

Need to brighten up someone's day? Send these beautiful Cornish flowers, picked fresh to order. Put a smile on their face...
— Eden Project · Tue, Sep 11 2012 04:02:12

But, the venue has become a tourist attraction/destination with not just the green plants but some specific and unique activities too.

10 tips for gardeners in September from the Eden Project @edenproject http://ow.ly/dAyW4 http://fb.me/29ecmNJuh
— Oxfam South West · Wed, Sep 12 2012 02:01:48

So, from Thursday 13th September 2012 - the "Coutts Skyline Garden" will be officially open on 440 The Strand London.

Such project never happens on its own. The Clink Charity based at HMP Down has been involved as well - and it wouldn't have been possible without design direction horticultural Richard Vine's expertise.

A great day at #TheClinkCymru today with our valued suppliers. Just over a week until our official launch. Thank you for all your support
— The Clink Restaurant · Tue, Sep 11 2012 08:48:27

The London private bank has worked alongside charities for over 200 years as well as in media, entertainment and the arts. The bank is also expert in international banking: an area which provides highly personalised services to meet clients' needs.

So, if this not a good image for a financial business - thinking further than an office desk - how better could it be?

And imagine the view from that rooftop for Chef Peter Fiori; real escapism - when work and pleasure blend gracefully.

British Firework Championships 2012

MecaBounce — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:00:35 GMT

It is also called Champion of Champions - a 2 night fireworks extravaganza in Plymouth (Devon - UK).

Storified by MecaBounce · Wed, Aug 15 2012 03:00:35

If you never visited Plymouth - located in the Southwest of England - it is the right time to do so. The city is organising on 14th and 15 August 2012 a great show in the open air: The British Firework Championships.

The British Firework Championships, Plymouth Hoe - 14th & 15th ...

The British Firework Championships 2011. ... Join us for the British Firework Championships and take a look at some of the great things...

It is not the little garden show you would do for your friends, wife, husband, brother or sister's birthday! It is huge and beautiful.
All starts at 9.30pm - Each competitor is firing a 10 minute display – so over the two nights you will be able to enjoy 60 minutes of fireworks – and its all free.

It is a regular event and rather popular on a National scale. BBC Radio4 even featured it on Wednesday morning during the morning news.

Plymouth secures fireworks deal

The British Firework Championship will be held in Plymouth for at least the next six years. The city council said a deal had been signed ...

So, it is not the last year if you are missing that 2012 event.

The two-day event, which attracts an estimated 100,000 spectators every August, costs the council about £100,000. As being so popular this 2 night show should contribute about £4m to the economy.

With so many visitors all Guest Houses, B&Bs and Hotels are very busy. It is a winner for the City and the County too.

Despite the recession, people are ready to invest some time and money to drive down the coast, where actually it is always a good plan with Cornwall not that far and Eden Project too.

Off to the Eden Project :)
— Sophie Campbell · Wed, Aug 15 2012 01:35:14

World's largest greenhouse - Eden Project, United Kingdom The Eden Project is a visitor attraction in Cornwall in... http://fb.me/20pqX5gqo
— Mary Chuks-Samule · Tue, Aug 14 2012 23:15:27

#plymouthfireworks last night were fantastic, who will be the winner of the Champion of Champions? See the next 3 companies tonight!
— Waterfront News · Tue, Aug 14 2012 23:51:41

RT @inplymouth: RT @SGPlymouth: coreygreep's photo http://instagr.am/p/OUzVLDFeIs/ cc @inplymouth @visitplymouth #plymouthfireworks #plymouth · Sam Grayston

Eden-project

#plymouthfireworks · nick_ludlam

#plymouthfireworks · Harriet Chloe Ellen Palmer

#plymouthfireworks are amazing! · kazuwacky

#plymouthhoe #plymouthFireworks · Dan

Nowadays it is actually rare to be able to access free events costing quite a lot to organize. So many people and Councils are moaning about tax rates and issues to put something together. For the past 4 years investments in several sectors have shrinked because of a lack of funds and trust of what could happen in the future. With the recent news that UK economic growth is almost nonexistent, such evenings with something to enjoy for not a penny at the door, is actually giving hope that tomorrow will be a better day.

In general, people like FREE events or products. You just have to look in the street when it comes to having a sample of coffee, tea or pizza as a give-away for marketing purpose: everyone wants it - simply because it doesn't cost them a thing! Understandable afterall, isn't it?

Athomekeywest

The good and happy spirit within Europe and even worldwide has dropped dramatically. It is important to look at the future positively...not always easy of course, but all depends on your actual situation and mindset. Never let yourself down for irrelevant situation. Everyone seems to become more and more influenceable by what they hear through rumours and some just can't cope with such information.

But, life is actually far too short to worry about tiny details, because what is actually better: enjoying each minute or worrying about the unpredictable future? The best choice is naturally the former.

Fireworks generally bring happiness because it usually refers to your childhood, fun times and beauty of shapes, colours on a pitch black background. It also means "celebration" of anything & everything: new year, birthday, graduation, success!

Always look on the bride side of life.

Is it too early to plan for Christmas

MecaBounce — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 09:43:12 GMT

Last year (2011) saw Harrods having the Christmas cards ready mid-August. Then followed the entire gifts' department. Is this too early, silly or just unacceptable.

Storified by MecaBounce · Wed, Aug 08 2012 02:43:12

BBC NEWS | UK | England | London | Harrods in early Christmas launch

Harrods leads the retail Christmas campaign by unveiling its Christmas range four months early.

Our day in the office is at an end, so have a wonderful evening and do join us again tomorrow.
— Harrods · Mon, Aug 06 2012 12:10:07

We can reveal that the box in question contains... A very cool pair of @RayBan_Eyewear sunglasses - http://pic.twitter.com/QubwvvsQ · Harrods

Harrods http://pic.twitter.com/bOfjxHbX · Yubiajando

Harrods this evening ❤ http://pic.twitter.com/grB4cHzh · Um E Abeeha

Why do Big Issue sellers stand outside charity shops? "Got no money pal! That's why we use them!"...Try Harrods or somefink?
— Rab Hawe · Wed, Aug 08 2012 01:36:34

London has this kind of big contrast of prestige indoor and struggle at its doorstep, but this is the way the society is! The "recession" has not helped breaking the difference between rich and poor!

The Occupy movement wanted to shake views and attitudes. However, there have been wealthy families centuries back!

Kings and Queens throughout the world were financially comfortable because or thanks to the rents they took from farmers working on their lands. Things have not really changed. Landlords have invested when they could and by renting their properties, they rule the rental market by deciding whether the monthly fees - deposits and charges increase or stay untouched according to the economy.

So, is the contrast between opulence and poverty divided by a simple glass not a provocation?

Hard to blame the stores trying to survive and plan ahead.

As a Selfridges' buying manager said: "Christmas is coming earlier each year."

Off to London with charlie :D #shopping #selfridges
— Zahrabibi · Wed, Aug 08 2012 02:21:36

Starting to shop for Christmas very early is not a bad idea after all. Planning ahead is the way forward - people keep saying time management brings success in whatever you do.

Mirror

Steve McQueen & Mesothelioma

MecaBounce — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 10:34:29 GMT

This could have been a film title - unfortunately, the actor suffered from this disease.

Storified by MecaBounce · Fri, Jul 27 2012 03:34:29

Steve McQueen | Official Website

Steve Mcqueen official Web Site and Fan club, featuring biography, photos, trivia, rights representation, licensing, contact and more.

Live2times

I live for myself & I answer to nobody - Steve McQueen
— Nathaniel · Fri, Jul 27 2012 02:36:30

Bullitt Chase · jkstang78

The actor Steve McQueen started his career really young but also ended it at 50!

His nickname was "The King of Cool". It seems that it remains the same. McQueen has become an icon of american cinema.

Steve McQueen - IMDb

Steve McQueen, Actor: The Great Escape. He was the ultra-cool male film star of the 1960s, and rose from a troubled youth spent in refo...

As stated on Imdb: "... Over 25 years after his untimely death from mesothelioma in 1980, Steve McQueen is still considered hip and cool..."

Le Mans - Steve McQueen's movie (only race sequences) 1 of 2 · motorsportzx

Steve McQueen was an avid motorcycle and racecar enthusiat. Some films even show such passion: The Great Escape (with the final scene), Bullitt and Le Mans.

Linternaute

Steve McQueen the' Nutty boy' #madness http://pic.twitter.com/tMNkvYBR · Thestevrog

A person that so many people admired and wanted to meet or even to be compared to. Being cool is something natural, and he had that extra.

Sadly, his type of cancer associated with asbestos exposure was diagnosed too late. Despite undergoing treatment that McQueen himself paid out of his own pocket, his condition worsened and several metastatic tumours spread through his body - a huge tumor developed.

Everything was supposed to be kept secret. McQueen registered under a fake name in a low-income clinic to have this growth removed from his liver but his heart didn't support the heavy surgery.

Steve McQueen died on 7th November 1980.

Steve McQueen Special · ESASENERJI

Electrick Children - cinema

MecaBounce — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 09:29:31 GMT

A film with no CGI or special effects, something beautifully simple.

Storified by MecaBounce · Fri, Jul 27 2012 02:29:31

Electrick Children

Electrick Children A Film By Rebecca Thomas SXSW South by Southwest Film Festival 2012.

Starting tonight: Electrick Children about a Mormont girl who got pregnant after listening to rock music and... http://fb.me/29Wz4bJN0
— Tim Wall · Fri, Jul 27 2012 02:24:05

I-flicks

Has anyone seen Electrick Children? Is it as good as the trailer makes it seem?
— Hayley M Stevens · Thu, Jul 26 2012 13:27:39

going to the cinema today to see this film electrick children, it looks so good
— nancy · Thu, Jul 26 2012 04:57:10

the film i went to see yesterday, electrick children was the best film ever
— nancy · Fri, Jul 27 2012 00:47:52

Adore the new movie 'Electrick children'
— marynchic · Thu, Jul 26 2012 10:36:58

ELECTRICK CHILDREN Trailer · mappealws

The Nerves - Hanging On The Telephone, Original version 45, Blondie. 1976. · minutegongcoughs