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EU Organic Awards Shine a Light on Europe’s Pioneers of Sustainable Agriculture

Awards

News Desk

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27/10/2025

EU Organic Awards Shine a Light on Europe’s Pioneers of Sustainable Agriculture

This year’s EU Organic Awards – the premier distinction for innovation and excellence in organic farming, food production, and retail – have celebrated the individuals, companies, and communities setting new benchmarks for the organic movement across Europe.

With the European Union committed to converting a quarter of all farmland to organic cultivation by 2030, the finalists represent a diverse and forward-thinking group of producers, processors, and retailers who are redefining how sustainability and profitability coexist. For UK businesses, these achievements highlight emerging trends and successful strategies that could shape the future of the UK’s own organic sector.

Introduced in 2022, the EU Organic Awards recognise excellence in seven categories: Best Organic Farmer (male and female), Best Organic Region/Bio-District, Best Organic City, Best Organic Food Processing SME, Best Organic Food Retailer, and Best Organic Restaurant or Foodservice.

Celebrating the organic pioneers

This year’s winners reflect the breadth of organic innovation across the EU. In its remit to acknowledge sustainable food and drink production – the EU’s ‘More Than Only Food & Drink’ campaign highlights the best organic farmer, the region/bio-district and city categories.

The award for the best female organic farmer went to Albina Yasinskaya from Bulgaria. Albina leads Rozino Organic Farm, Bulgaria’s first Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) certified farm with a closed-loop production cycle. Producing organic dairy, meat, and ice cream, the farm follows permaculture and zero-waste principles while boosting local employment and education.

The best male organic farmer award went to Lieven Devreese from Belgium. Lieven runs Het Polderveld, a community-supported organic farm near the Belgian Dutch border. Supplying food to families and even a hospital, the farm shows how agriculture can nourish both people and communities. With fair wages, mental health initiatives, and direct links to consumers, Het Polderveld proves that farming is about relationships between soil, farmers, and society.

Through their passion and commitment, these remarkable trailblazers are driving innovation, supporting communities, and building resilient, fair, and future-focused food systems throughout the EU.

Whilst the winners are undoubtedly demonstrating the difference that individuals can make, the awards also recognise groundbreaking organic practices taking place on a much broader scale through the best organic food processing SME, best organic regional, bio-district, best organic city, best organic food retailer and best organic restaurant awards.

The Best Organic Food Processing SME was awarded to Joseph Brotmanufaktur GmbH in Austria. Founded by Josef Weghaupt 15 years ago, Joseph Brot is one of the world’s largest artisan bakeries, processing over 1,000 tonnes of organic flour entirely by hand. Working with 24 smallholder families to cultivate 14 rare grain varieties, the bakery leads in preserving original grain culture while promoting biodiversity, fair value chains, and sustainable food systems across Austria.

Võru County in Estonia received the award for Best Organic Region/ Bio-District. The county has built a sustainable organic food supply chain, integrating 20% organic food into all its schools, including pre-schools, by 2024. The Võru County Organic Agreement boosts local economies, supports rural entrepreneurship, and raises awareness about healthy, organic diets.

The Best Organic City was named as Valpaços, Portugal which is home to Portugal’s highest number of certified organic producers (516), where education on sustainability, environmental measures, and innovation is central to the city’s ethos.

The Best Organic Food Retailer was awarded to Radis&Bona eG, Regensburg in Bavaria, Germany. This cooperative farm shop in Regensburg makes local organic products accessible to everyone, which offers a full range of produce from within an 80km radius. Powered by green energy and packaged without waste, it’s a blueprint for fair, transparent, and hyper-local food systems.

The Best Organic Restaurant award was presented to Peskesi restaurant, in Heraklion, Crete. Known for bringing cultural heritage back to life, the restaurant embraces the philosophy of “Farm to Table” and “Table to Farm”, with 98% of its inputs involving local partnerships. They also organise educational events and conform to fair trade practices.

The EU Organic Awards are more than a celebration – they are a benchmark for what can be achieved when producers, communities, and policymakers work together. For UK trade, the awards are an opportunity to track the trends, techniques, and supply chains shaping the future of organic food in the EU – and influencing consumer expectations globally.

Birmingham Albion FC: Kuwaiti Founder Launches New Club to Unite Communities Through Football

Sports

News Desk

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23/10/2025

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Birmingham Albion FC: Kuwaiti Founder Launches New Club to Unite Communities Through Football

A new chapter is opening in Birmingham’s sporting story as Birmingham Albion FC emerges with the mission to invigorate grassroots football and inspire unity across the city’s diverse communities.

Launched in 2025 by Kuwaiti investor Faisal Alserbel, the club is built upon a strong belief that football has the unique power to connect people beyond borders, backgrounds, and generations.

Currently based in Birmingham, the team is preparing for registration with the Birmingham County FA, with ambitions to compete in the Saturday League in the forthcoming season. Recruitment is ongoing for players, coaches, and volunteers keen to be part of the club’s debut campaign.

“Football has always been about belonging,” says Faisal Alserbel, Founder and Chairman of Birmingham Albion FC.

“We want to create a place where people feel part of something bigger — where ambition, friendship, and community come together on and off the pitch.”

With its bold burgundy and gold colours and polished branding, Birmingham Albion FC has already made a strong impression online for its professional identity and forward-looking vision. Its motto, “We Are Albion,” embodies values of integrity, teamwork, and steady growth.

The club’s ambitions extend well beyond competition. It aims to collaborate with local schools and community partners, providing programmes that encourage young people to stay active, build character, and develop a lifelong love for sport. Plans for youth engagement, friendly fixtures, and open training sessions are already taking shape — reinforcing its belief that every great team begins at the grassroots.

“I could have bought a share in an existing club,” adds Alserbel,

“but I love the challenge of building something from the ground up — to see a dream grow from nothing.

I don’t want my investment to rely on someone else’s success; I want to create my own.”

As preparations continue for Birmingham Albion FC’s FA registration and team development, the club is inviting local supporters, sponsors, and volunteers to be part of its foundation and future growth.

For more information or to get involved, email [email protected].

Stay connected with Birmingham Albion FC on Instagram and X: @BAlbionFC.

Mestizo Invites London to Celebrate Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’ in Chelsea and Camden

Food & Drink

News Desk

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23/10/2025

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Mestizo Invites London to Celebrate Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’ in Chelsea and Camden

This October and November, Mexican restaurant brand Mestizo invites the capital to step into the rich world of Día de Muertos – Mexico’s deeply spiritual Day of the Dead celebration.

At both its Chelsea and Camden restaurants, Mestizo will recreate the atmosphere of Mexico’s most symbolic festival, complete with colourful altars, cultural rituals, themed menus, and immersive events that honour memory and togetherness.

In Mexican culture, Día de Muertos is a time to joyfully remember the departed. The heart of the celebration is the altar, or ofrenda, traditionally adorned with flowers, candles, food, and photographs. Every element carries meaning: cempasuchil blossoms guide souls home, candles illuminate their return, and familiar dishes welcome them lovingly.

This year, Mestizo invites guests to take part by contributing photographs of their late family members or friends. These will become part of the community altars, displayed across both venues during the celebrations as a heartfelt tribute to life and remembrance.

Mestizo’s events programme brings this vibrant Mexican tradition to life in London.

On Thursday 30th October, Downstairs Camden will host the Annual Costume Party, an exuberant evening filled with music, dance, and Mexican flair.

Then on Friday 31st October, Mestizo Market will come alive with “Pa’ tu Calaverita” from 4pm–7pm. Inspired by the Mexican custom of children collecting sweets, visitors can fill their own “calaverita” bags with an assortment of authentic sweets and confections for a fixed price.

On Saturday 1st November, Mestizo Chelsea presents Night of Catrinas from 7pm — a refined soirée featuring a curated menu and face painting for guests who wish to become Mexico’s elegant skeletal icons.

To round off the festivities, a Día de Muertos Brunch will be held on Sunday 2nd November across both Chelsea and Camden venues, offering a festive culinary experience infused with Mexican warmth.

Another highlight of the programme is the Semana de Moles (Week of Moles), running from 29th October to 2nd November. Mole, one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes, is a labour of love — a sauce crafted from chillies, spices, seeds, and chocolate, reflecting regional diversity from mole poblano’s dark richness to the creamy encacahuatado.

Alexis Sanchez, who manages both Mestizo restaurants, said: “We are thrilled to announce Mestizo’s calendar of celebrations, from costume parties and Catrinas to a special Día de Muertos brunch.

“At Mestizo, the Día de Muertos isn’t just a celebration; it’s a moment of connection, memory and respect. This year in London, we invite guests to enjoy our special events and bring their own beloved photos or mementos to join our community of remembrance.”

Mestizo will also present a special mole tasting series, allowing guests to savour the complexity and creativity of this traditional Mexican delicacy — a true celebration of flavour, artistry, and cultural heritage.

For event details and reservations, visit london.mestizomx.com.

Evlo Leads Campaign to Include Rent Payments in UK Credit Scores

Finance

News Desk

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22/10/2025

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Evlo Leads Campaign to Include Rent Payments in UK Credit Scores

A coalition led by Evlo, the personal loan provider dedicated to widening financial inclusion, has submitted a formal proposal to HM Treasury ahead of the Autumn Budget 2025. The coalition is calling for fundamental changes to the way credit histories are assessed in the UK.

Under the Financial Freedom for Everyone campaign, the group is advocating for the government to make it mandatory for rental payment information to be factored into credit scoring systems — a reform that could benefit millions of renters across the nation.

The submission highlights the growing urgency of tackling financial exclusion in Britain. According to campaign data, 20.2 million UK adults are now financially underserved — a 50% increase since 2016. One in three cannot access mainstream credit, while over three million people have borrowed from illegal lenders in the past three years. Another 5.6 million remain “credit invisible”, unable to prove their reliability to lenders.

Sam Foster, Head of Marketing and Communications at Evlo said: “The current credit scoring system contains a significant inconsistency that disproportionately disadvantages renters. Whilst mortgage payments are routinely included in credit assessments and contribute positively to homeowners’ credit profiles, rental payments, which represent one of the largest monthly financial commitments for millions of households, do not consistently count towards building a credit history.”

“This disparity creates what we describe as a systemic disadvantage that reinforces existing inequalities in the financial system. The irony is particularly stark given that credit reference agencies already capture data on far smaller recurring payments, such as mobile phone contracts and utility bills, yet the substantially larger rental payments often go unrecorded or unused in credit assessments.”

The Financial Freedom for Everyone campaign’s proposal is straightforward in concept but potentially transformative in impact. Evlo and its co-signatories are calling for all credit reference agencies to be required to include rental payment data in their credit assessments.

Furthermore, they propose that landlords and letting agents should be mandated to offer tenants the option to share their positive rental payment data with credit reference agencies. By creating pathways for millions of people to build robust credit histories through their existing financial behaviour, the reform could reduce reliance on high-cost credit and illegal lending, promote greater economic resilience, and level the playing field between renters and homeowners.

Sam Foster added: “The timing of this representation is particularly significant as it precedes the UK’s first-ever National Financial Inclusion Strategy, which is expected to be published soon. The diverse range of organisations backing this campaign reflects broad recognition across the financial services sector that the current system is not working as it should. Their united front on this issue underscores the severity of the financial exclusion crisis and the pressing need for reform.

“As the Autumn Budget approaches, the Financial Freedom for Everyone campaign’s proposals offer policymakers a practical tool to address financial exclusion and create a fairer, more inclusive credit system that recognises the financial responsibility millions of renters demonstrate every month.”

For more information about the Financial Freedom for Everyone campaign, visit www.evlo.co.uk/about-us/social-impact/.

Yinka Ilori’s ‘Walk With Your Dreams’ Transforms Milton Keynes with Polycote’s Innovative Flooring Solutions

Construction

News Desk

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22/10/2025

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Yinka Ilori’s ‘Walk With Your Dreams’ Transforms Milton Keynes with Polycote’s Innovative Flooring Solutions

Polycote, the UK’s trusted name in industrial flooring paints and coatings, has partnered with British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori MBE to help deliver Walk With Your Dreams, a dynamic new public art installation at Milton Keynes Station Square.

The project, commissioned by the Milton Keynes Development Partnership (MKDP) and the City Council, was officially unveiled on 2 October 2025. Covering over 3,000 square metres, the bold and colourful artwork symbolises Milton Keynes’ multicultural heritage and forward-thinking vision for the future.

Polycote’s industry-leading flooring solutions played a central role in bringing the design to life. The company supplied its Quick Coat EP epoxy paint system, known for its ultra-fast curing time and exceptional resilience — ideal for a busy pedestrian zone. More than 6,400kg of Quick Coat EP across 13 tailor-made shades, along with 936kg of OT Floor Primer, were used to produce the vivid and durable finish.

To ensure long-term protection, Polycote also provided 730kg of its water-based Graffitex anti-graffiti coating. This advanced formula enables the easy cleaning of graffiti while preserving the integrity of the artwork beneath, guaranteeing its continued vibrancy.

“As a family-run business with 35 years of history serving the Milton Keynes area, contributing to a project of this significance in our local community is a proud moment for our team,” said Clayton Britchford, General Manager.

The mural’s flawless execution was handled by Shier Coatings — certified Polycote installers specialising in epoxy floor systems and large-scale paint applications. Their expertise and meticulous craftsmanship ensured the project exceeded all expectations.

Watch the video here.

Since 1991, Polycote has combined over 35 years of expertise in delivering technically advanced flooring systems across diverse industries. Projects like “Walk With Your Dreams” demonstrate the company’s continued dedication to creating high-quality, durable, and innovative solutions for commercial and public spaces alike.

Visit www.polycote.com for more information on Polycote’s products and services.

The £39.95 MultiStyler Going Viral for Saving Women 30 Minutes Every Morning

Lifestyle

News Desk

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21/10/2025

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The £39.95 MultiStyler Going Viral for Saving Women 30 Minutes Every Morning

Between busy commutes, early starts, and packed diaries, mornings can feel more like a race than a routine. For countless women, finding time to style their hair is often the first thing to go—but not anymore. The LilyStyler 5-in-1 MultiStyler Pro is quickly becoming a morning essential, promising salon-level results in minutes.

With five interchangeable attachments, this viral tool makes blow-drying, smoothing, curling, and volumising faster and easier. Suitable for every hair type—from thick and curly to fine and straight—it’s designed to simplify your routine without compromising on style. No wonder social media is full of rave reviews.

The magic lies in its effortless design. To curl, you simply section your hair and let the airflow do the rest—no twisting or wrist strain. Each attachment works seamlessly, helping you to dry, straighten, or boost volume with minimal effort.

Using airflow powered by the Coanda effect—technology usually seen in top-tier stylers—the device delivers even heat, protecting your hair while creating smooth, frizz-free results. Its negative ion technology further enhances shine, leaving hair soft and polished.

Trusted by more than 10,000 hairstylists, the LilyStyler is designed for busy women who want beautiful results without the fuss. Whether you’re styling before work, getting ready for school runs, or squeezing in a refresh after the gym, it delivers perfect waves or sleek hair in record time.

Compact and lightweight, it’s ideal for home or travel. Available in Royal Gold, Silver Pink, and Jet Blue, the MultiStyler Pro also comes with a two-year warranty and a 60-day money-back guarantee—with express shipping available across the UK.

National Apple Day: Cider Makers Toast Pubs as the Lifeblood of British Hospitality

News Desk

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20/10/2025

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National Apple Day: Cider Makers Toast Pubs as the Lifeblood of British Hospitality

To mark National Apple Day on 21 October, the National Association of Cider Makers (NACM) is paying tribute to the pubs that keep cider at the centre of the nation’s social life and hospitality sector, as the final apples of the season are pressed across the UK.

In traditional cider-making regions such as the South West and West Midlands—and increasingly beyond—producers are concluding this year’s harvest, transforming the final apples into the diverse selection of ciders enjoyed in pubs across Britain. From household favourites to distinctive regional labels, the variety reflects the craftsmanship and creativity that define the cider category.

“Every glass of cider starts with an apple, but it’s in the pub that the journey truly comes to life. From growers to cider makers and the thousands of people working in hospitality who bring those pints to customers, our industry works together to deliver great-tasting ciders all year round. National Apple Day is a moment to celebrate that partnership and to recognise the pubs and people who keep cider at the heart of British hospitality.” Mark Hopper, Public Affairs Director, National Association of Cider Makers (NACM).

Cider remains one of the cornerstones of the pub trade, generating more than £2 billion in on-trade sales and supporting around 50,000 hospitality jobs nationwide. Its success is built on collaboration—linking agriculture, production, logistics, and service to deliver quality, authenticity, and enjoyment to every pint.

This year’s harvest has delivered excellent apple quality across the board, giving producers confidence in the blends that will define the year ahead. From well-known national brands to artisan producers, cider continues to thrive as a dynamic, forward-looking category for today’s consumers.

Hopper added, “The connection between orchards, cider makers and pubs is what makes this category so distinctive. Every pint served in a pub tells part of that story, one of people, place and pride.”

Proudly made in the UK, the cider industry partners with over 300 growers who cultivate apples on 15,000 acres of orchards, supporting British farming and manufacturing. The result is a true home-grown success story—one that sustains employment, skills, and community spirit from the orchard to the pub.

‘Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth’ – Ian Rutherford Shares His Extraordinary Life Story

Book Publishing

News Desk

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20/10/2025

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‘Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth’ – Ian Rutherford Shares His Extraordinary Life Story

Blyth-born entrepreneur and former bodyguard Ian Rutherford has published his new autobiography, Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth, now available on Amazon. The book recounts his inspiring rise from unemployment in Newcastle to becoming a trusted bodyguard for former U.S. President George W. Bush and later founding a multimillion-pound security organisation.

The self-published memoir, available internationally, offers a raw and honest account of Rutherford’s journey from humble beginnings on Blyth’s Cowpen Estate – an area once ranked among the most deprived in England – to achieving success through determination, self-belief, and risk-taking.

A powerful story of resilience and ambition, Mission Accomplished traces Rutherford’s transformation from a young man seeking purpose to a globally recognised figure in counter-terrorism and intelligence training. His journey highlights how perseverance and courage can turn even the most challenging start into a life of accomplishment.

“I’ve lived a mad life, and this book’s only a fraction of it. From growing up on a council estate to working with the former president of the United States and working around the world, it’s been a journey.” Said Ian Rutherford.

“This book isn’t about showing off, it’s about showing what’s possible when you keep going, no matter how tough it gets. It shows where I’ve come from and the lessons I’ve learned. There’s enough that happened in my life to fill more books, but for now, I’m proud to share this chapter of my life.”

Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth is available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.

The book takes readers on a compelling journey through the defining moments of Ian’s life, including his early years in the North East, his move to London to pursue a career in security, and the turbulent experiences that tested his resolve.

Among the deeply personal recollections included in the biography is a moving account of the 1989 Kegworth air disaster. Rutherford’s then-girlfriend was due to be on the ill-fated flight, which tragically crashed and claimed 47 lives.

The event profoundly shaped his outlook, instilling a deep appreciation for resilience and purpose that would later guide his life and work.

After early stints in London’s security industry, Rutherford’s career took a defining turn when he joined Walkabout Inns under the mentorship of Michael, the organisation’s chairman. Recognised for his discipline and leadership, Rutherford quickly rose through the ranks, eventually managing security operations across the UK for nearly two decades.

By the mid-1990s, he had established one of London’s largest security companies. Yet, success was not without hardship, including being falsely implicated in a serious firearms case that nearly derailed his life. His eventual vindication became a turning point, reinforcing his determination.

Ian Rutherford, Close Personal Protection Officer and Former U.S. President George W. Bush

In the years that followed, Rutherford’s work took him to some of the world’s most high-profile environments.

In 1999, he served as a bodyguard during U.S. President George W. Bush’s four-day visit to Monaco, an experience that included moments of high tension, such as being detained at gunpoint and managing security during critical diplomatic movements.

AFP Services Ltd Wins ‘SME of the Year’ at ENGAGE UK & Ireland Finance Awards 2025

News Desk

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20/10/2025

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AFP Services Ltd Wins ‘SME of the Year’ at ENGAGE UK & Ireland Finance Awards 2025

AFP Services Ltd, a leading provider of outsourced financial and operational support for small and medium-sized enterprises, has been named Small Medium Enterprise (SME) of the Year at the prestigious AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE UK & Ireland 2025 Finance Awards.

Organised by the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (AICPA & CIMA), the annual awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and leadership across the accounting and finance sectors.

The judging panel commended AFP Services Ltd for its streamlined, process-led back-office model and pioneering approach to digitalisation and system development. The company’s commitment to empowering staff through continuous professional development and inter-departmental collaboration also drew high praise.

Commenting on the winners, John Graham, FCMA, CGMA, CIMA President and Co-Chair of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, said:

“The ENGAGE UK & Ireland Awards showcase the very best of the accounting and finance profession – and this year is no exception. What struck me most was the passion and genuine enthusiasm our nominees and winners bring to their work. For them, accounting and finance isn’t just a job – it’s a deeply rewarding vocation that they truly enjoy, and one that takes them places.”

Reflecting on the recognition, Richard Peel, Founder of AFP Services Ltd, said:

“While this rich reward recognises the hard work of all of our wonderful team, it is equally a testament to the immense value we create for our clients, whom we have been assisting for more than 20 years. Over time our services have evolved from basic finance department activities to much wider supply chain initiatives, and I am delighted we are still delivering to the highest possible standards.”

The accolade reinforces AFP Services Ltd’s standing as a trusted, forward-thinking partner to SMEs across industries. With a continued focus on digital innovation and operational excellence, the company remains dedicated to delivering world-class financial and supply chain solutions. Its technology-driven, people-focused approach has proven especially vital within the increasingly complex FMCG sector.

Taiwan Excellence Lands in London with an Unmissable Innovation Showcase

News Desk

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17/10/2025

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Taiwan Excellence Lands in London with an Unmissable Innovation Showcase

Join Taiwan Excellence from 22nd-26th October for an exhibition of the latest smart home, wearables, healthcare and consumer tech at Westfield, White City, London

This October, Westfield White City will feature the best of Taiwanese innovation, as Taiwan Excellence unveils an immersive five-day exhibition, from 22nd to 26th. Organized by the International Trade Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs (Taiwan), and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the showcase will present the latest technology, lifestyle breakthroughs, and award-winning design from 20 of Taiwan’s most innovative award-winning companies.

From smart homes and AI-powered living, to healthcare, beauty, sustainable fashion, urban mobility and consumer tech, visitors will get hands-on with the products shaping the future. Highlights include innovations from global technology leaders Acer, Asus, and Gigabyte, alongside lifestyle pioneers such as KYMCO in urban mobility and Vinxper in smart living.

The showcase will highlight the breadth of innovative and cutting-edge technologies Taiwan has to offer, demonstrating how forward-thinking design and smart solutions can meet the needs of UK consumers while promoting sustainable growth and global collaboration.

Hosted by award-winning stand-up comedian Monica Hsueh in the Atrium Area of Westfield White City (10am–6pm daily), the showcase is themed around Smart and Healthy Living. Visitors will not only explore discover premium lifestyle products and stylish technologies that enable smarter living and affordable home solutions, meet the designers behind them, and but also enjoy a taste of Taiwan with complimentary snacks and bubble tea.

With twenty trailblazing companies on display, this must-see showcase at the heart of London celebrates creativity, style, and innovation. Shoppers at Westfield White City who stop by the stand in the front Atrium will be treated to premium, stylish products and cutting-edge technologies that enable smarter living and affordable home solutions.

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