18.2 C
London
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Home Blog Page 3

Employee Christmas gifts: What do workers actually want?

0

As the festive season rolls around, many employers may be shopping around for employee Christmas gifts, but stop to ask themselves: What do my employees really value in a Christmas gift? 

Research consistently shows that the most appreciated gifts are those that offer choice, meaning, or recognition – rather than flashy branding, junk/joke items, or particularly unthoughtful gifts.

1. Flexibility trumps all

Employees love feeling recognised, and overwhelmingly prefer gifts that allow choice:

  • A Blackhawk Network study found that 86% of employees feel valued when given gifts or rewards during the holidays – especially when they can choose something meaningful themselves.
  • Similarly, BHN Rewards research shows 83% of employees would prefer a gift card or prepaid reward, yet only a quarter actually receive one.

2. The value sweet spot

Gift value matters but not extravagance:

3. Meaningful recognition drives loyalty

The impact of a thoughtful gift goes beyond its material value:

  • Snappy’s 2024 Holiday Gifting Report finds 74% of workers look forward to a gift, while 71% say receiving one improves their view of their employer.
  • Gifts also help retention: 54% say they’d be more likely to stay if their company regularly shows appreciation via holiday gift-giving.
  • FruitGuys research cites that 57% of workers interpret holiday gifts as genuine signs of appreciation, and 78% feel more satisfied afterward.

4. Personalisation adds emotional depth

Though not always critical, personalisation enhances impact:

  • According to research from the University of Bath, personalised gifts create stronger emotional bonds, making recipients feel more cherished and likely to value the gift.
  • That said, personalisation needn’t be overcomplicated; in Tremendous’s study, a simple “thank-you” note alongside a standard gift satisfied 85% of employees.

5. Avoid the gifting pitfalls

Some types of gifts consistently miss the mark:

  • Generic swag, novelty mugs, or unwanted tokens often backfire. HR Future highlights that 60% prefer a bonus, while branded items frequently fall flat.
  • A poll of British adults ranked novelty socks (81%), mugs (68%), and shower gel (76%) among the most disliked work Christmas gifts.

Gifts that resonate

WellBox has been identified as the leading employee gift company in the UK and specialises in thoughtful, flexible gifting solutions. From festive hampers and wellbeing gifts to branded, sustainable options, or flexible gift cards. Their Christmas Collection includes:

  • E-gift cards spanning retail, experiences, food & drink, and wellbeing – all offer the flexibility employees appreciate.
  • Themed hampers, wellbeing boxes, and sustainable gifts, enabling personalisation according to employee preferences.
  • Branded yet meaningful gifts, striking a balance between recognition and emotional value.

This blend aligns well with research-backed best practices: giving employees choice, conveying appreciation, and offering recognisable yet meaningful tokens.

What’s more, WellBox takes ethical gifting to a whole new level, donating a proportion of each gift to local charities and causes. This means that even the most Grinch-like gift recipient couldn’t help but feel thankful.


Quick reference table: What employees actually want

What employees valueWhy it matters
Flexible gift options (e.g., gift cards, e-gifts). Or hamper type gifts that contain a range or goodies.Provides choice and reduces waste
Value in the £35-£75 rangeStrikes the right balance of appreciation and practicality
Recognition-focused messagingBoosts morale, loyalty, and perceived value
Simple personal touches (notes, custom branding)Deepens emotional impact without cost blowups
Avoid generic or novelty itemsPrevents disappointment and disengagement

In summary

Employees want Christmas gifts that feel thoughtful, offer freedom to choose, and communicate genuine appreciation. Value-based incentives (especially around the £50+ range), paired with a simple personal touch, go much further than branded merchandise or one-size-fits-all gestures.

If you’re aiming to find gifts that employees will actually enjoy, consider solutions like WellBox’s Christmas Collection, which offers flexible e-gifts, curated hampers, wellbeing items, and sustainable choices – all designed to align with what research suggests is most meaningful.

Chocolate Dino celebrates Great Taste Success and 500 five-star London reviews

Chocolate Dino, an independent bakery based in London, is marking an exceptional year with two 2-star Great Taste Awards 2025 for its standout Speculoos & White Chocolate New York–Style Cheesecake and Pecan Caramel Chocolate Cookie. Adding to its success, the bakery has now achieved over 500 five-star Google reviews, maintaining an outstanding 4.9 average rating.

Launched in May 2020 at the height of lockdown by hospitality experts Rafal Smaszcz and Marcin Matykiewicz, Chocolate Dino started life as a passion project, selling gooey brownies online and at local markets.

The journey began modestly, with the founders baking in home kitchens and hand-delivering treats to customers seeking comfort during challenging times. As word spread, their indulgent brownies and generously sized cookies quickly gained popularity. Within months, they were appearing at well-known London markets, including Brick Lane, before expanding to major events such as Comic Con and Formula-E.

In just five years, Chocolate Dino has grown from a small home operation into a bustling café, recognised by its bright yellow frontage on Kennington Road, near Waterloo.

Its distinctive dinosaur branding and cosy, welcoming atmosphere have helped cement its reputation as a go-to destination for sweet lovers. Today, the bakery serves hundreds of visitors each week, catering to locals, office workers, and international tourists alike.

Award-Winning Treats with a Creative Edge

While the bakery is best known for its award-winning brownies and giant New York–style cookies, its latest wins at the Great Taste Awards 2025 demonstrate how far the team has come in developing creative new recipes.

The Speculoos & White Chocolate New York–Style Cheesecake impressed judges with its balance of spiced biscuit flavours and creamy white chocolate, while the Pecan Caramel Chocolate Cookie earned recognition for its rich flavour and indulgent texture. Both products achieved the coveted 2-star rating, an honour awarded to fewer than 10% of entries worldwide.

Alongside these award-winning creations, Chocolate Dino’s menu now includes inventive brunch dishes such as burrata croffles, buttermilk waffles, and shakshuka straight from the oven. Guests can enjoy sweet treats with speciality coffee from Volcano Coffee Works, as well as indulgent hot chocolates made from real melted chocolate.

“When we started, we never imagined our bakes would go from lockdown comfort food to products recognised with multiple 2★ Great Taste Awards,” says co-founder Rafal Smaszcz. “What makes us proudest isn’t just the awards, though — it’s that so many people keep coming back, leaving hundreds of kind reviews. That tells us we’ve created something special.”

Building a Cult Following in London

Chocolate Dino’s reputation has spread quickly, with more than 500 Google reviews praising its cookies, brownies, and welcoming atmosphere. Customers regularly highlight the café’s friendly staff and playful personality, which stands in sharp contrast to the corporate feel of many high-street chains.

The bakery has already attracted attention from the media, with features in ForbesCondé Nast Traveller, and HELLO! Magazine. Its “skip the chain, taste the difference” philosophy has resonated strongly with customers seeking authentic, high-quality food experiences in London.

Chocolate Dino is now preparing to expand with a new site in the Waterloo area and plans to relaunch nationwide cookie and brownie delivery, making its award-winning products accessible across the UK. The founders aim to grow carefully while staying true to the independent spirit and personal touch that has defined the brand since its earliest days.

With its mix of artisan quality, playful branding, and neighbourhood warmth, Chocolate Dino is proving that independents still have the recipe for success in London’s café scene.

Felix & Spear Announces John Lyons Exhibition ‘The Language of Painting’

0

Felix & Spear is delighted to present John Lyons: The Language of Painting, an exhibition celebrating the work of the renowned painter and poet John Lyons (b. 1933).

Born in Trinidad and based in the United Kingdom since the 1950s, Lyons has built a career that bridges the worlds of visual art and literature. Deeply influenced by Caribbean folklore and mythology, his paintings are infused with narrative depth, memory, and imagination. As both a poet and painter, Lyons offers a unique artistic voice, creating works where visual imagery and written language harmoniously intersect.

The exhibition brings together works from across Lyons’ extensive career, showcasing the diversity and richness of his artistic expression. His pieces, defined by bold use of colour, symbolic imagery, and lyrical undertones, reveal a poetic understanding of the visual arts that has remained consistent throughout his practice.

Every work demonstrates Lyons’ rare ability to translate the rhythms and cadences of poetry into painting, providing audiences with an intimate glimpse into the imaginative landscapes that have shaped his creativity for more than six decades.

Lyons’ art has been exhibited widely in both the UK and internationally, with his work held in numerous public and private collections. John Lyons: The Language of Painting offers visitors an opportunity to engage with the vision of an artist whose influence on British and Caribbean cultural life is profound and whose creativity continues to inspire with remarkable clarity and inventiveness.

The exhibition runs at Felix & Spear from 11 September to 2 November 2025.

About John Lyons

John Lyons (b. 1933, Port of Spain, Trinidad), lives and works in Cambridgeshire, England. Lyons moved to England in 1959 to study at Goldsmiths College, later earning an Art Teachers’ Diploma from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Over a 27-year teaching career, he maintained a prolific artistic and literary practice, exhibiting widely and publishing seven poetry collections. His work has featured in major exhibitions including Life Between Islands: British Caribbean Art 1950s- Now (Tate Britain, 2021–22) and No Colour Bar: Black British Art in Action (Guildhall Gallery, 2016). Solo exhibitions include Carnivalesque (2024-25, The Whitworth and The Box), Mythopoeia (1997) and Behind the Carnival (1992–94). Lyons has served on national arts panels, adjudicated major awards, and co-founded the Hourglass Studio Gallery and HEADS to promote community arts. In 2003 he received the Windrush Arts Achievement Award. His children’s poetry collection Dancing in the Rain was shortlisted for the 2016 CLiPPA Award and in 2025 won the Cholmondeley Award from The Society of Authors.

Best air conditioning demand soars in UK during heatwaves, says Debonair Cooling

0

Debonair Cooling, a top UK air conditioning provider, has confirmed ‘unprecedented demand’ for the best air conditioning systems as soaring summer temperatures prompt a rush for cooling solutions.

With sales climbing rapidly, suppliers and distributors are under growing pressure to meet the increased demand for high-quality air conditioning products across the country.

Best air conditioning for UK heatwaves

According to the owners, Debonair Cooling achieved sales of £150,000 in a single month during the summer heatwave, reflecting the wider trend of increased air conditioning usage across the UK. 

In normal trading periods, the company generates between £100,000 and £150,000 in monthly revenue, serving both residential and commercial clients across London.

Top London air conditioning installers 

Suppliers have reported a year-on-year rise in unit demand, driven by record-breaking summer temperatures.

“Heatwaves in the UK are no longer a rare occurrence.” said Debonair Cooling founder Aria Toupchi.

“This has created a shift in how people and businesses view air conditioning. Demand is increasing faster than suppliers can stock, and our team is working tirelessly to ensure customers continue to receive the reliable service and top-quality systems they expect.”

Founded by Aria Toupchi and his father during the 2020 lockdown, Debonair Cooling began as a small family business.

The company has since expanded into one of London’s best air conditioning companies, hiring additional engineers, and has achieved more than £2.5 million in total sales.

Best air conditioning for heating and cooling

Despite supply chain pressures, Debonair Cooling has continued to provide installations using leading global brands such as Daikin, Carrier, Lennox, and Trane, reinforcing its reputation for high-quality service. 

The company also maintains one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the sector, with 245 verified five-star reviews on Google.

As temperatures continue to rise, both homeowners and businesses are beginning to invest in long-term cooling solutions. 

“The challenge now is not whether people want air conditioning, but whether the industry can keep up with the speed of demand.” added Aria.

Best air conditioning services in London

“The demand we are experiencing during heatwaves shows how much the market has changed. While supply pressures exist across the industry, we have built strong partnerships with leading manufacturers that allow us to keep delivering systems on time and at the highest quality.”

Debonair Cooling’s continued growth highlights the success of its services and the increasing demand for reliable cooling systems across the UK.

Term-time plans and uniform costs lead co-parenting disputes, study finds

0

A recent study has revealed the top co-parenting disputes faced by separated parents as children return to school, with term-time schedules and uniform costs ranking highest among concerns.

The research, conducted by family mediation specialists Mediate UK, analysed anonymised enquiries and open cases across England and Wales during the back-to-school period. The findings show a shift in focus as parents move from resolving summer holiday plans to discussing new term-time routines.

The study reports that 41% of school-related enquiries made in August 2024 and August 2025 focused on disagreements over contact schedules and handovers linked to updated school timetables. In addition, 23% of disputes centred on expenses for uniforms, sports kits, and devices, while 15% were related to after-school clubs and wraparound childcare, including collection arrangements and related costs.

Researchers noted that these disputes often surface soon after parents have settled summer plans, adding strain to families already managing complex co-parenting dynamics.

“By late August, many parents tell us they have only just settled summer holiday plans, and suddenly the conversation switches to new timetables, school runs, uniform costs and clubs,” said Jess Knauf, Director of Client Strategy at Mediate UK. “What we are seeing is a consistent annual pattern where families who thought they had everything sorted suddenly find themselves facing a completely new set of challenges. The emotional and financial strain of back-to-school preparations can quickly escalate minor disagreements into major conflicts.”

Knauf added: “Mediation gives families a safe space to sort out the practical detail, such as who is doing which pick-up, how to share the cost of school uniform or electronic devices, and how handovers work if a child is starting a new school. It helps children start a new school year with clear, workable arrangements. The earlier families address these issues, the less disruptive they become for everyone involved, especially the children.”

The study’s findings are particularly significant given that approximately 4 million children in Great Britain live in separated family households, according to recent Office for National Statistics data. Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) estimates that the minimum annual cost of sending a child to state school in the UK is around £1,000 for primary and nearly £2,300 for secondary. This can cause tension between parents deciding who is responsible for covering these costs and whether they can afford additional expenses such as after school clubs and school trips. 

The top 10 list of back-to-school co-parenting disputes includes*:

  1. Term-time child arrangements and handovers (41% of cases)
  2. School pick-ups, drop-offs and travel logistics (25% of cases)
  3. School uniform, PE kit and device costs (23% of cases)
  4. After-school clubs and wraparound care times and fees (15% of cases)
  5. Homework routines and communication between homes (13% of cases)
  6. Holiday handover points for October half-term (6% of cases)
  7. Parents’ evenings and school events attendance (4% of cases)
  8. Address for school records and emergency contacts (2% of cases)
  9. Bedtimes and weekday screen-time rules (2% of cases)
  10. How new partners fit around established school routines (1% of cases)

*Enquiries or mediation sessions where an element of back-to-school issues were involved. 

The research methodology involved analysis of over 350 enquiries and 113 active mediation cases handled by Mediate UK’s network of qualified mediators during August 2024 and 2025. 

To support families going through these challenges, Mediate UK has published its comprehensive Back-to-School Co-Parenting Report, with practical checklists for parents preparing for the new school year.

Parents considering mediation should note that those arranging discussions about children may be eligible for the Government’s Family Mediation Voucher Scheme, which offers up to £500 towards the cost of joint mediation sessions. The scheme, which has been extended to March 2026, aims to make family mediation more accessible and reduce pressure on the Family Court system.

For families unsure whether they need a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before making any court application, a free calculator is available to help determine the most appropriate next steps for their situation.

B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy Wins National Award and Transforms Hair Training

B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy, based in Central London and founded by veteran stylist and salon owner Marie Biggerstaff, is redefining the future of hair education with a fresh approach that has already earned the prestigious Most Loved Brand Award.

With 35 years of experience in the industry and as the owner of the award-winning Boathouse Hair Rooms in Chatham, Marie established the academy to fast-track aspiring stylists into careers without compromising quality. Her 18-week programme goes beyond traditional NVQ qualifications, combining high-impact practical training with flexible online learning to equip students with salon-ready skills and confidence.

“We’re rewriting the script for hair training,” said Marie. “This isn’t just about an NVQ – it’s about producing confident, capable professionals who are ready to hit the salon floor from day one.”

The academy focuses on getting students job-ready as quickly as possible, offering mock trade tests that simulate real-life interviews and access to a free nationwide salon recruitment database. Every graduate leaves with a professional portfolio showcasing photography, testimonials, and detailed information about their style and technical abilities. Salons hiring graduates only pay a modest finder’s fee, helping students connect with workplaces that match their skills and personality.

Later this year, Marie and the academy will launch a subscription-based alumni community to provide ongoing mentorship and career support for newly qualified stylists.

With its innovative training model, strong salon links, and commitment to student success, B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy is setting new standards for UK hairdressing education and proving that passion and innovation are a winning combination.

JNJ Building Services Wins Best Community Impact Award and Gains National Recognition

West London-based construction specialist JNJ Building Services Ltd has won the prestigious “Best Community Impact” Award and has once again been nominated for the coveted WHICH? Trusted Trader of the Month Award.

Founded in 2014, the family-run business has earned a reputation as one of West London’s most respected construction companies, specialising in high-value residential projects and maintaining consistently exceptional standards.

One of the company’s biggest differentiators is its client-first approach, led by founder Jamie, which includes a bespoke Interactive Project Roadmap. This system provides clients with complete visibility of each stage of their project, ensuring they always know exactly what will happen and when. The result is a smooth, stress-free construction experience.

In an industry where overspends caused by poor planning can exceed £150,000 and planning refusals often result in redesigns costing £100,000 or more, Jamie’s commitment to transparency and precision reassures clients that their investment is protected.

“Too many people come to construction full of anxiety because of past horror stories,” said Jamie. “My mission is simple: to remove uncertainty and replace it with clarity. I don’t just want to build homes. I want to build trust, so clients feel supported every step of the way.”

With 17 years of hands-on residential building experience, Jamie has become the go-to expert for homeowners seeking outstanding results without unnecessary stress. His approach turns what is often seen as a complicated and uncertain process into a clear, structured, and reliable journey defined by quality, safety, and trust.

As the company continues to grow, Jamie is expanding his focus towards bespoke property development while remaining committed to championing transparency, quality, and integrity across the construction industry. With awards and recognition continuing to build, the future looks exceptionally bright for JNJ Building Services.

LNC Services Founder Christopher Cullen Honoured with Prestigious Leadership Award

At a time when many businesses are prioritising cost-cutting, LNC Services is proving that profitability and people-focused values can coexist. The London-based commercial cleaning company has seen its Founder, Christopher Cullen, recognised with a prestigious Leadership Award for his dedication to ethical business practices and team wellbeing.

Operating across Greater London, with a particular focus on Zones 1 and 2, LNC Services was co-founded by Christopher Cullen, who left the late-night hospitality industry to establish a cleaning company built on fairness, quality, and respect. The mission: to raise standards in commercial cleaning while prioritising the dignity of both clients and staff.

Unlike many competitors, LNC pays its 70+ cleaning staff the London Living Wage rather than the minimum wage, in alignment with the Living Wage Foundation. This ensures financial stability and consistent work for employees. Every cleaner also undergoes full training and thorough background checks, guaranteeing professionalism and safety for clients.

“Happy, fairly paid cleaners do better work, and our clients see the results every day,” said Christopher Cullen. “We wanted to create a business that values people over margins; our team, our customers and their spaces.”

LNC goes beyond standard cleaning contracts by offering transparent pricing and highly personalised services. Clients receive clear invoices with no hidden costs and can contact Christopher directly via WhatsApp for quick support. The team also assists with thoughtful extras such as restocking fridges or accepting after-hours deliveries.

Clients frequently praise the company’s quality and attention to detail. Paul Berwick, South of England Business Estates Partner for E-Act Group, said:

“Christopher and his team are honest, reliable and available. Their attention to detail exceeds our expectations.”

Edward Morris, CEO of B_Together Nurseries and former owner of Three Little Birds Nursery Group, added:

“I have worked with Christopher and his team at several of my businesses. They provide consistently good cleaning services at fair rates which make them my go-to.”

Amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and increasing operational costs, LNC positions premium cleaning services as a strategic investment, not a luxury. Christopher Cullen’s recognition reflects his understanding that well-maintained workspaces improve employee morale, enhance efficiency, and align with forward-thinking business values.

“Businesses shouldn’t have to choose between value and values,” Christopher said. “We make it simple: transparent pricing, a fair deal for our team and exceptional care for every client.”

For more information, visit www.lnc-services.co.uk.

New Medical Consultancy Launched to Help UK Drivers Navigate DVLA Health Requirements

A new team of independent medical specialists has introduced the Medical Fitness to Drive Consultancy (MFTDC) to assist drivers and businesses across the UK with medical assessments required by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The service is now live and aims to provide drivers with clear, reliable advice on medical fitness to drive, helping them retain or regain their licences.

MFTDC offers a wide range of services, including online consultations, vocational driver medicals, and training programmes for both individuals and organisations. Key services include:

  • Online e-Consultations – Virtual appointments designed to guide individual drivers on DVLA medical requirements linked to specific health conditions.
  • D4 Exams / Group 2 Medicals – Medical assessments for HGV and PCV drivers, including vision testing. Clinics are available in Cardiff, Bristol, Swansea, and Birmingham, with appointments offered seven days a week in the Cardiff centre.
  • Training & Education – Tailored sessions for drivers, clinicians, and businesses to enhance understanding of UK medical driving standards.

The Managing Director of MFTDC said:

“Many drivers face delays or confusion when dealing with DVLA medical rules. Our role is to make the process clear and straightforward. By combining medical expertise with practical guidance, we make it easier for drivers to understand their responsibilities and for businesses to meet compliance requirements.

We are taking decisive action to support the community we serve by launching the UK’s most affordable D4 medical exam. From September 1st to December 31st, 2025, MFTDC will be offering its comprehensive Group 2 D4 medicals, including the mandatory vision assessment, for just £39 across all its centres.

Our mission is to put clarity back into the system, provide trusted medical expertise, and help drivers get back on the road legally and safely.”

MFTDC highlights that all final licensing decisions rest with the DVLA.

For more information or to book a consultation, visit www.mftdc.co.uk.

Perry Burns Launches New Business Book as a “First-Aid Kit” for SMEs

While many business books focus on large corporations, serial entrepreneur Perry Burns takes a different approach with his latest title, offering practical guidance tailored to the real-world challenges of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“101 Things I Wish I Had Known Before I Started My Business” launches on 1st September 2025 and is already being praised as a practical “first-aid kit” for entrepreneurs. Drawing from Perry’s 50 years of hands-on experience, the book shares valuable lessons, anecdotes, and “war stories” that resonate with business owners across sectors and organisation sizes.

In true entrepreneurial spirit, the road to publication wasn’t without its hurdles. A miscommunication with the publisher resulted in the wrong file being sent to the printers, causing a handful of typos in the first print. Perry has turned this setback into a teaching moment, introducing his SAFETY process (explained on page 203). As he jokes:

“Readers of the first edition have been the lucky recipients of the ‘E’ & ‘T’ parts of the process.”

Perry reassures readers that all significant errors have since been fixed but still encourages them to flag any they spot:

“It’s all part of the entrepreneurial journey,” he adds with a smile.

Covering a wide range of topics — from finance and leadership to the influence of AI and SEO on business — the book mixes practical strategies and checklists with humour, cartoons, and interactive QR codes. Perry also invites readers to share their own “war stories” for potential inclusion in future editions.

Beginning his career selling cash registers door-to-door, Perry later moved into retail technology and software before working across sectors including finance, professional services, and electric motorbikes. Promoted to his first board role in 1985, he has served on the boards of UK Finance and the Motorcycle Industry Association. Today, he continues to champion vision, strategy, and communication while embracing the opportunities offered by emerging technologies.

Availability & Links