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Half of adults want more effort from partners on Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day has been dubbed a waste of money with novelty mugs and cheap underwear amongst the worst presents.

More than half of the 2,015 adults polled, said their partner should make more effort, rather than splurge on presents they don’t even want.

Respondents reported the rubbish gifts they had received included ‘wrong’ perfume, socks, candles and even, a car mat.

But while most said the day of lovers is a waste of time, one in three said they’d be gutted if their better half did nothing to celebrate.

Travel together

The research by Railcard.co.uk, found that one in five said a trip away would be the best romantic gesture with the Lake District top destination in the UK.

Relationship expert and coach, Sarah Louise Ryan, said: “Couples who travel together often end up more fulfilled and happier in their relationship.

“There are many reasons for this; inclusive of the fact it encourages communication and can deepen feelings of commitment as they plan their trips ahead of time, looking towards the future.

“Travel allows more opportunities for romance and time outside of the day-to-day routine, meaning romantic sparks can be reignited.

“Where flowers and chocolates can play a part, this Valentine’s Day I’d encourage all couples to carve out some time to book and experience a romantic getaway, whether for a day trip or a long weekend.”

The study also found 36% had considered a trip together as a way to rekindle a floundering relationship.

Earthmark identifies the UK’s leading businesses for environmental performance after record-breaking June heat

Study of publicly available information highlights organisations setting the pace on environmental action

Earthmark rates businesses on a scale of zero to five, offering what it calls a “Trustpilot for the climate” to improve transparency and help tackle both greenwashing and greenhushing.

Oxford, 2 July 2026 – Following the UK’s hottest June on record, Earthmark has published its latest analysis of environmental performance across British businesses, highlighting the organisations demonstrating the strongest commitment to sustainability. The rankings are based on publicly available environmental data and aim to provide a clearer picture of how companies are responding to growing climate challenges.

Earthmark has now assessed 25,000 brands using its zero-to-five scoring system, which evaluates organisations using publicly disclosed environmental information. The company describes the platform as a “Trustpilot for the climate”, giving businesses and consumers an accessible way to compare environmental performance.

Among UK organisations, the London Metal Exchange, information and analytics company RELX, recruitment specialist PageGroup and fintech business TradingHub achieved the highest scores.

Charlotte Tilbury is the highest-ranked consumer brand, followed by fragrance house Penhaligon’s and credit rating agency Experian.

Rounding out the top 10 are offshore wind engineering consultancy Wood Thilsted, property company Grainger and Alliance Healthcare.

Other UK-headquartered businesses featured in the top 100 include BAE Systems (14), THG (25), Tesco (50), Aviva (67), Diageo (73), NEXT (80) and Revolut (86).

Commenting on the findings, Jack Linnett, CEO of Earthmark, said: “It’s encouraging to see such a broad range of industries represented in the top 10, showing that strong environmental performance is achievable across different sectors.

“The businesses receiving the highest scores are doing more than making sustainability claims. They are providing clear, publicly available evidence that demonstrates action, accountability and measurable progress instead of relying on general statements or ambitious promises.

“This is increasingly important because trust has become one of the biggest issues in corporate sustainability. The organisations performing best in our assessment are those willing to be transparent about their environmental impact and take responsibility for it. That is the kind of leadership businesses need to demonstrate.”

Earthmark uses AI technology to analyse publicly available environmental information. Scores are calculated using a range of indicators, including carbon emissions, waste management, sustainability reporting, net zero commitments and independent third-party assessments. Businesses are compared against others operating within the same sector. A score of one indicates an organisation that is at an early stage of its environmental journey, while a score of five reflects industry-leading environmental performance.

Businesses and online marketplaces can display Earthmark ratings to help customers quickly understand a company’s environmental credentials. The full directory is also publicly available, allowing anyone to view the scores awarded to participating brands.

Jack Linnett added: “Greenwashing and greenhushing both make it harder for people to make informed decisions. Many consumers want to support businesses that are taking meaningful environmental action, but it is often difficult to distinguish genuine progress from marketing claims.”

Visit www.earthmark.io for more information and to search Earthmark scores.

The top 10 UK businesses (Earthmark score)

  1. London Metal Exchange (4.7)
  2. RELX plc (4.6)
  3. PageGroup plc (4.6)
  4. TradingHub (4.6)
  5. Charlotte Tilbury Beauty (4.5)
  6. Penhaligon’s (4.5)
  7. Experian plc (4.5)
  8. Wood Thilsted (4.5)
  9. Grainger plc (4.4)
  10. Alliance Healthcare (4.4)

(Note: Where overall Earthmark scores are identical, rankings are determined using underlying scores calculated to two decimal places.)

Michael Mathers Continues His Best-Loved Series With the Release of ‘New Horizons Book 2’

Nature, suspense and unforgettable characters come together in the latest instalment of the acclaimed series

MILTON KEYNES, UK. July 2, 2026 – Readers can now discover the latest chapter in Michael Mathers’ acclaimed New Horizons collection with the publication of New Horizons Book 2. Combining adventure, mystery and richly detailed natural landscapes, the novel continues the series’ exploration of the enduring relationship between people and the world around them.

The origins of the series can be traced back to an idea shared with Michael’s close friend John Hursey, an accomplished classical pianist and fellow writer. Although the pair originally planned to collaborate, Hursey contributed only the opening pages before encouraging Michael to complete the story himself. Michael credits that encouragement with giving him the confidence to pursue a writing journey that has exceeded all expectations.

Michael’s extensive background in forestry has influenced every aspect of the series. His practical knowledge of wildlife and rural environments enables him to portray both landscapes and animal characters with convincing realism.

Set on a remote island off Scotland’s western coastline, the first two novels immerse readers in an environment where isolation, beauty and nature shape every chapter. Those same qualities remain central throughout New Horizons Book 2.

The setting evolves as the series progresses, eventually moving onto Scotland’s mainland. By Book Three, the action takes place entirely along the west coast, creating an even broader stage for the developing story while preserving the books’ strong environmental focus.

Calvin the pig, introduced in Book Three, stands out as Michael’s favourite character. Ironically, Calvin is based on the only featured animal Michael has never encountered through his own experience. He jokes that he hopes the rest of the animal cast never learns the truth.

Readers who look beyond the surface will discover an ongoing thread woven carefully throughout every storyline and relationship. Michael deliberately avoids explaining its purpose, inviting audiences to uncover its meaning on their own.

The series also balances practical survival with moments that hint at something beyond explanation. By leaving those elements open to interpretation, Michael encourages readers to form their own conclusions.

The stakes become even higher in Book Three as the three central characters battle overwhelming challenges in a desperate fight for survival. Their determination is tested repeatedly, leaving readers questioning whether they can overcome the dangers ahead.

The book is published by Maple Publishers, a UK publishing company offering support to authors alongside professional book cover design and book layout services.

Author Kevin Ellam Releases The Ten Headed Shadow

New Novel Reimagines Classic Folklore Through Themes of Hope, Strength and Community

MILTON KEYNES, UK. July 2, 2026. Kevin Ellam has announced the publication of The Ten Headed Shadow, a new novel that draws from traditional folklore while presenting an original story about resilience, courage and the remarkable achievements made possible through unity.

Blending the spirit of ancient legends with a modern narrative, the novel tells the story of people who confront overwhelming odds by placing their trust in one another and refusing to surrender hope.

The book explores mythical adventures alongside meaningful messages about determination and the enduring strength found within communities.

The plot follows a quiet village whose peaceful existence is shattered when a fearsome ten-headed beast appears. Faced with an impossible challenge, the villagers discover that lasting survival depends on cooperation rather than individual heroics.

As they confront their fears together, they uncover the importance of resilience, friendship and mutual support. Their experience transforms both their village and their understanding of courage.

Layered with symbolism and universal messages, The Ten Headed Shadow honours the traditions of folklore while offering readers an original and engaging story. It encourages audiences of all ages to consider the value of compassion, perseverance and unity.

Kevin Ellam’s personal experiences also shaped the novel. At 38 years old and living as a bilateral below-knee amputee, he has overcome major life challenges that have influenced his approach to storytelling and his portrayal of resilience.

His experiences have become a source of inspiration rather than limitation, allowing him to create stories that reflect shared human experiences and emotional strength.

The Ten Headed Shadow is now available for readers who enjoy meaningful fantasy stories that celebrate hope, determination and community.

White Magic Studios provided the book cover and interior design, bringing the story to life with professional publishing services. The title is published by Maple Publishers, a UK-based publisher focused on outstanding literary works.

Chris Miller Announces Launch of New Political Thriller Desert Messiah 

MILTON KEYNES, UK. July 2nd, 2026 – Author Chris Miller has announced the release of his new political thriller, Desert Messiah, a novel that explores the intersection of war, politics and religion during the final stages of the Iraq War.

Drawing on more than two decades of research into the Iraq conflict between 2003 and 2011, Desert Messiah aims to combine historical authenticity with compelling fiction. Miller examined official reports, government documentation and historical records to create a story that aims to challenge accepted narratives while delivering an engaging and thought-provoking thriller.

The novel follows Cathy Ashby, an experienced BBC war correspondent who is tasked with investigating the authenticity of what appears to be a highly classified White House Presidential Briefing Paper anonymously sent to the BBC in 2004. The leaked document raises questions over whether the American-led invasion of Iraq was motivated by concerns surrounding the growing influence of Islam rather than the publicly stated search for weapons of mass destruction.

Assigned to Baghdad, Cathy reunites with American journalist Robert Wiseman, a trusted colleague from her reporting days in Afghanistan. Together, they uncover evidence that casts doubt on official accounts of the conflict and reveals a web of political secrecy stretching across international governments.

Desert%20Messiah%20by%20Chris%20Miller Front%20Cover

As the investigation progresses, Cathy encounters Saleh al-Fulan, a controversial Muslim preacher recently released from Abu Ghraib prison. Revered by many followers as the long-awaited Mahdi, Saleh’s growing influence alarms Iraq’s senior religious leaders, who discreetly seek American assistance to silence him without exposing their own involvement. What begins as an investigation into a leaked government document soon develops into a dangerous pursuit of hidden truths with far-reaching consequences.

Set against the backdrop of wartime Iraq, Desert Messiah examines political manipulation, religious belief and the human cost of conflict. The novel blends authentic historical settings with an original fictional narrative, offering readers an exploration of one of the most controversial periods in modern history.

Chris Miller brings extensive professional experience to his writing. He began his career in the British Royal Navy, serving as both a navigator and an Admiral’s Flag Lieutenant before spending 28 years with Royal Dutch Shell in a range of offshore and commercial roles. He is also the co-author of Modern Naval Combat.

Speaking about the novel, Miller said: “My aim was to combine rigorous historical research with compelling storytelling to encourage readers to consider the complex political and religious forces that shaped the Iraq conflict.”

The book is published by Maple Publishers, a UK-based publishing company known for supporting imaginative and engaging literary works, while also offering professional book cover design and book layout services.

GMV expands ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification to include its UK business

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Nottingham, UK, July 2, 2026. GMV has reached another important milestone by extending its ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Information Security Management System certification to cover its United Kingdom operations. The achievement highlights the company’s continued international expansion while reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high standards of information security across its global business.

The expanded certification demonstrates GMV’s capability to maintain consistent information security governance, risk management and operational controls across multiple countries. The extension follows a successful independent audit carried out by AENOR, a globally recognised certification organisation, providing customers with additional confidence in the delivery of critical programmes and services.

GMV’s UK office is the first subsidiary outside Spain to be included within the scope of the Group’s certified Information Security Management System. This reflects the organisation’s ability to implement consistent security controls, governance practices and operational processes throughout its international operations.

The certification verifies that information security risks are identified, evaluated and managed through a structured governance framework supported by ongoing improvement initiatives.

This accomplishment further strengthens GMV’s commitment to meeting the growing security and resilience expectations of customers, partners and regulatory requirements across the United Kingdom’s critical sectors.

“This achievement demonstrates our ability to maintain a consistent and robust approach to information security across our international operations. It reinforces the trust our customers place in us and reflects the dedication of our teams to protecting information and supporting mission-critical programmes.”

ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is recognised worldwide as the leading standard for information security management. It establishes a framework for identifying, assessing and managing security risks while protecting the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information through continuous improvement.

For customers and partners across the United Kingdom, the certification extension provides added confidence that GMV’s projects, services and operations follow internationally recognised information security best practices.

GMV’s UK operations support a wide range of activities within the space sector, including Earth Observation and Applications, Robotics, Guidance, Navigation and Control, Satellite Control Centres, Space Domain Awareness and Position, Navigation and Timing. The company operates multidisciplinary engineering teams from Nottingham and Harwell, supported by specialist laboratory facilities focused on developing advanced technologies for future space missions.

“The inclusion of our UK operations within the scope of GMV’s ISO 27001-certified Information Security Management System is an important milestone for our organisation,” said Mark Dumville, CEO of GMV in the UK.

“It reflects the maturity of our processes, the commitment of our teams and our determination to provide customers with the highest levels of trust, security and operational excellence. As we continue to grow in the UK, maintaining internationally recognised standards remains a key element of our strategy.”

The certification milestone comes during a period of sustained growth for GMV in the United Kingdom as the company continues expanding its role in major space and Position, Navigation and Timing programmes while increasing support for customers throughout the British space and defence sectors.

New Historical Novel Perfectly Imperfect by Louis Mulholland Arrives This August

A Moving Work of Fiction That Explores Prejudice, Hope and the Human Need for Acceptance

UK, July 3, 2026 – Louis Mulholland will release his latest historical novel, Perfectly Imperfect, on 7 August 2026. Through an engaging narrative rooted in history, the book examines themes of exclusion, resilience and compassion, inviting readers to reflect on how society has treated those who were seen as different.

Blending historical fiction with meaningful social themes, the novel questions traditional ideas of normality and belonging while drawing attention to people whose experiences have often been overlooked.

Perfectly Imperfect centres on an intelligent, humorous and caring woman who longs for nothing more than an ordinary existence. Despite her many strengths, she is rejected by society because she does not fit accepted standards.

Through her journey, Louis Mulholland examines the emotional effects of prejudice, the strength required to overcome adversity and the enduring pursuit of dignity.

Taking place during a challenging chapter in history, the novel depicts a society where vulnerable people were frequently subjected to exploitation, discrimination and cruelty. With superstition widespread and legal protections limited, many individuals were judged through fear and misunderstanding instead of their true character.

Rather than focusing on famous historical figures, Perfectly Imperfect highlights the experiences of ordinary people whose humanity was overshadowed by social prejudice. It explores how those seeking honest work and acceptance were exploited, forced into exhausting labour and denied basic respect.

Although it tackles difficult issues, the novel ultimately delivers a hopeful message. It encourages readers to value empathy, fairness and inclusion while reconsidering the meaning of normality.

Louis Mulholland’s passion for writing began at an early age through his love of hip-hop music. Inspired by artists who combined lyrical skill with meaningful storytelling, he began writing songs as a teenager and developed a lasting appreciation for language and creativity.

His curiosity later expanded to subjects including religion, planetary science, the universe, ufology, narcissistic abuse and politics. These varied interests continue to shape his thoughtful and accessible writing style.

The COVID-19 lockdown gave Louis the opportunity to devote more time to historical research. Discovering forgotten stories and overlooked individuals inspired the compassionate themes that define his fiction today.

Louis believes history provides valuable lessons that remain relevant today. That perspective forms an important foundation of Perfectly Imperfect.

The novel is published by Maple Publishers, a UK publishing company that supports creative authors while providing professional book cover design and book layout services.

CELLER8 Launches Medical & Scientific Advisory Board 

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New advisory board brings together leading experts in longevity science, regenerative health and integrative medicine to support CELLER8’s commitment to science-led wellness education.

MAIDSTONE, UK. June 30th, 2026 – CELLER8, the Premium UK based wellness technology company, known for its range of PEMF and red light devices, has announced the launch of its Medical & Scientific Advisory Board, bringing together internationally recognised experts in longevity science, regenerative health, and integrative medicine. 

The Medical & Scientific Advisory Board has been created to help meet demand for trusted, balanced and scientifically informed education by guiding CELLER8’s educational initiatives, contributing expert insight, and helping support informed discussions around health, wellbeing and emerging wellness technologies. 

The launch of the board marks an important milestone for CELLER8, reinforcing its commitment to evidence-based education and a science-led approach to wellness.

Andy Smith, Founder and CEO of CELLER8, commented: “There’s more information available than ever before, but not all of it is accurate. We’ve always believed that people should have access to trusted educational resources that help them make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. 

“The formation of the Medical & Scientific Advisory Board is an important step in this mission, and we’re incredibly proud to welcome such respected individuals to the board and look forward to working together on what’s ahead.”

The CELLER8 Medical & Scientific Advisory Board brings together expertise spanning longevity science, regenerative health, and integrative medicine, united by a shared commitment to improving public understanding of health, wellbeing and wellness technologies.

The board is made up of Dr Nichola Conlon, Christian Drapeau and Dr Henning Saupe.

Dr Nichola Conlon is a longevity scientist and molecular biologist, focused on cellular energy, NAD⁺ biology and mitochondrial optimisation. 

She said: “At its core, longevity is about optimising cellular energy and resilience. I joined CELLER8’s Medical & Scientific Advisory Board because the brand is committed to educating people on the science behind wellness technologies and how they may support cellular performance. I’m excited to support an organisation that values scientific curiosity, meaningful education and helping people make more informed decisions about their health.”

Christian Drapeau is a stem cell scientist, researcher and author focused on adult stem cell biology and regenerative health. 

He commented: “My work has always focused on one central idea: the body already has remarkable repair systems, but those systems need the right environment to perform at their best. I joined CELLER8’s Medical & Science Board because the company is committed to educating people on the science behind wellness technologies and how PEMF and red light may support cellular repair, recovery, and resilience. It is rare to find a brand so focused on mechanism, transparency and giving people practical tools to support long term health.”

Dr Henning Saupe is an integrative oncology physician, and medical director, who focuses on combining conventional cancer care with complementary metabolic and energy based therapies. 

Known internationally for his work in integrative and metabolic medicine, Dr Saupe focuses on combining conventional cancer care with complementary approaches designed to support overall patient wellbeing.

The formation of the Medical & Scientific Advisory Board builds upon existing relationships developed through one of CELLER8’s educational platforms, The PEMF Podcast. Through their podcast appearances, board members have shared their expertise and perspectives on a range of topics in the world of wellness and longevity. 

Listeners can explore these conversations through The PEMF Podcast, where board members discuss topics including longevity science, regenerative health, integrative medicine and emerging wellness technologies:

Dr Nichola Conlon – “How to Reverse Your Biological Age” 

Christian Drapeau – “Everything You Need to Know About Stem Cell Therapy & PEMF”

Dr Henning Saupe – “Using PEMF for Cancer For The Last 25+ Years”

As the board develops, members will contribute to future educational initiatives, content and discussions designed to help individuals better understand the science behind emerging wellness approaches.

ENDS

Narro Associates names Robbie Templeton as Managing Director in planned leadership succession

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EDINBURGH, UK, July 1, 2026 – Employee-owned structural and civil engineering consultancy Narro has confirmed a planned change in leadership, with Robbie Templeton taking over as Managing Director from Ben Adam. The transition forms part of the company’s long-term succession strategy as it enters its next phase of growth.

The carefully planned appointment represents an important step for the business as it builds on more than 40 years of success. Robbie Templeton will now lead the consultancy, bringing fresh ideas and continued momentum, while Ben Adam will remain on the Board of Directors, helping shape the company’s strategic direction and providing continuity. As an employee-owned organisation, developing future leaders has always been a key part of Narro’s long-term approach.

Since being founded in Edinburgh by David Narro, the practice has grown from a small engineering consultancy into a 100-strong business with seven offices across the UK. Employee-owned since 2014, Narro has built a strong reputation for delivering structural and civil engineering expertise across a broad range of sectors, including conservation, culture, education, infrastructure, residential, commercial and industrial developments.

Ben Adam joined Narro as a graduate engineer in 1998 and has spent almost 30 years with the practice. After becoming Managing Director in 2017, he oversaw continued business growth, geographical expansion, the strengthening of its employee ownership culture and the successful delivery of a number of landmark projects across the UK. His specialist knowledge of conservation engineering and sustainable design has contributed to significant schemes including the Glasgow School of Art, the National Museum of Scotland and the Burrell Collection.

Commenting on the transition, Ben Adam said: “It has been a tremendous privilege to lead Narro and to work alongside all the talented colleagues throughout my career. What makes Narro special is our people and the culture we have built together. As an employee-owned business, something I’ve been incredibly passionate about, our success has always been driven by collective commitment, collaboration and a shared passion for engineering excellence.

“Robbie has played a key role in Narro’s development over many years and is an outstanding leader. He understands our values, our clients and our ambitions for the future. I am delighted to be handing over to someone with the experience, energy and vision to lead the business into its next chapter.”

Robbie Templeton also began his career at Narro as a graduate engineer in 2006 and has progressed through the organisation over the past two decades, becoming a Board Director in 2023. A Chartered Engineer with extensive experience in both new-build and conservation projects, he has led teams on numerous high-profile developments and played an important role in expanding Narro’s Aberdeen office and wider presence across northern Scotland.

Robbie Templeton said: “Narro has given me incredible opportunities throughout my career, and I am honoured to be taking on the role of Managing Director. Ben, and David before him, has provided exceptional leadership and leaves a business that is strong, ambitious and well positioned for the future.

“Our employee-owned model creates a unique culture where people genuinely care about the success of the business and the quality of work we deliver. We have a fantastic team, an exceptional client base and exciting opportunities ahead. I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place, while continuing to innovate, invest in our people and support the sustainable growth of the practice.”

As Narro marks its 40th anniversary, the leadership change highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to developing talent from within while providing continuity for clients, employees and partners. The consultancy remains focused on delivering creative, technically excellent and sustainable engineering solutions as it continues to grow its presence across the UK.

For more information about Narro and its services, please visit www.narroassociates.com.

Warwickshire Lavender Farm celebrates more than £25,000 raised for family-inspired charities as Summer 2026 season begins

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BUBBENHALL, WARWICKSHIRE, July 1, 2026 – A family-run lavender farm in Warwickshire has surpassed £25,000 in charitable fundraising while welcoming visitors back for its 2026 summer season. Warwickshire Lavender officially reopened on 19 June, marking the start of another year of blooming fields, new attractions and fundraising for causes that hold personal significance for its owners.

Located near Coventry, Warwickshire Lavender is run by Ian and Pippa Jamie. This season, guests can enjoy a newly established vineyard alongside the famous lavender fields, as well as special Saturday evening openings throughout July.

Visitors are also invited to relax in the farm’s café, where every penny of profit is donated to charities supporting people affected by Huntington’s and Parkinson’s. The causes are deeply personal to the owners, whose families have been impacted by both conditions. To date, the café has helped generate more than £25,000 for charity.

Running from Friday 19 June until Sunday 9 August, the farm covers eight acres of countryside just outside Coventry and within easy reach of Leamington Spa. For a few weeks each summer, the landscape is transformed into vibrant purple fields that attract visitors from across the region.

Guests can stroll through the lavender rows, watch bees gathering nectar, capture photographs among the flowers and purchase lavender products that are grown and distilled on the farm. Many also stop at the café, which continues to be the driving force behind the farm’s fundraising efforts.

There is something new for returning visitors this year. A vineyard planted last summer is beginning to flourish alongside the lavender, while the introduction of Saturday evening openings throughout July gives guests the opportunity to experience the fields in the softer light of sunset.

“Both Huntington’s and Parkinson’s have affected people we love, so this was never really a business decision,” said Ian Jamie, co-owner of Warwickshire Lavender. “People came for the cake and a cup of tea at the café, kept coming back, and somehow we’ve now passed £25,000. That still amazes us.”

As the lavender bloom lasts only a short time each year, the Jamies encourage visitors to plan their trip at any point during the season rather than waiting until the final weeks. They also recommend experiencing one of the July evening openings, when the fields take on a particularly peaceful atmosphere.


Visitor information

  • Open: 19 June – 9 August 2026
  • Evening openings: every Saturday throughout July
  • Where: Warwickshire Lavender, Watery Lane, Bubbenhall, CV8 3BQ (near Coventry / Leamington Spa)
  • Opening hours: 10am – 4pm
  • Admission: £8 adults, £4 children — free car parking
  • Café: all profits to Huntington’s and Parkinson’s causes
  • Website: www.warwickshirelavender.com

Businesses Turn to Private Number Plates for Branding, Fleet Savings and Marketing Impact

SWANSEA, UK, June 30, 2026 – Businesses across the UK are finding new value in private number plates, using them as practical business assets rather than simple vanity purchases. According to Plates4Less, organisations are increasingly investing in personalised registrations to strengthen their brand identity, improve fleet management and even help older company vehicles present a more up-to-date image.

Although personalised registrations have traditionally been linked with luxury cars and individual owners, more businesses are adopting them as branding tools, vehicle identifiers and, in some cases, a cost-effective way to keep ageing fleet vehicles looking professional for longer.

Plates4Less says it first identified a noticeable rise in business enquiries during 2022, with demand continuing to grow each year since.

The company reports that business-to-business enquiries and sales more than doubled during 2025 compared with 2024. Interest has come from sole traders, SMEs and major fleet operators.

The growing demand led to the introduction of a dedicated Business Hub, together with a Business Number Plate Guide and a free Quick Guide that helps organisations explore branding, fleet management and marketing opportunities through personalised registrations.

Tony Clark of Plates4Less said: “When we first started seeing the increase in 2022, we assumed it might be a short-term trend. Instead, we’ve continued to see growing interest from businesses year after year.

“Business enquiries and sales more than doubled in 2025 compared with 2024, and we’re seeing demand from sectors ranging from tradespeople and logistics firms through to professional services, retailers and online businesses.

“What’s particularly interesting is the variety of reasons. Some businesses are focused on branding, some on fleet management, while others have discovered that a clever registration can become a surprisingly effective marketing tool.”

According to Plates4Less, business registrations typically fall into four categories:

• Brand and company name registrations
• Fleet-life extending registrations
• Investment and asset purchases
• Humorous and memorable registrations that help businesses stand out

Many businesses say personalised registrations enhance their professional image while making company vehicles easier to recognise across depots, customer locations and business premises.

Others have found registrations can refresh the appearance of existing fleet vehicles, helping delay unnecessary replacements where vehicles remain mechanically sound.

The final category continues to generate considerable interest.

While branding and fleet management remain key motivations, Plates4Less says some of the biggest success stories involve businesses choosing witty, memorable or industry-themed registrations that attract attention.

The company has interviewed business owners using registrations such as C4 PET, DEN 715TM1 NCE, HU63 OAK and 240 V, who report that customers frequently comment on the plates, photograph them and share them online.

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Several business owners said the registrations had generated conversations, recommendations and social media engagement that far exceeded their expectations.

Tony Clark added: “A clever registration can become a talking point. We regularly hear from businesses whose customers remember the registration long after they’ve forgotten the vehicle itself.

“The best registrations combine branding with personality. They help businesses stand out in crowded markets and often generate conversations that traditional advertising simply doesn’t.”

The company says demand is coming from businesses of all sizes, from sole traders operating a single van through to larger organisations managing extensive fleets.

To support businesses considering a registration for the first time, Plates4Less has also published a free Quick Guide containing practical tips, search strategies and examples of successful business registrations.