Sirius Bulletin 6th September 2021
This bulletin provides a summary of topical news, announcements and policy developments affecting business across the UK.
Food supply chain
Calls for Covid-19 Recovery Visa to address workforce shortages
Organisations from the food and farming sector have produced a report urging the Government to introduce a 12-month Covid-19 Recovery Visa to address workforce shortages affecting the supply chain.
Read more about the report at: www.nfuonIine.com/news/Iatest-news/were-a sking-government-for-a-covid-19-recovery-visa-to-ad dress workforce-shortages
Hospitality
Industry highlights impact ofno-shows
Hospitality operators have launched an initiative to highlight the issue of no-shows, which cost the industry £17.6 billion each year. The initiative aims to educate customers on the impact of not turning up for bookings, as well as providing insight and tools to help operators mitigate the impact.
Read more about the initiative at: www.morningadvertiser.co.uk/ Article/2021/09/01/What-is-the-impact-of-no-shows-on-pub-sector
Wellbeing guide for employers and staff
The Association of Convenience Stores has published guidance for the sector with practical advice on how to support staff wellbeing. It includes steps on how to improve staff retention and customer service via a healthy and engaged workforce.
Read more about the guidance at: www.acs.org.uk/news/acs-launches-wellbeing-guide-retailers-and-colleagues
Sector not ready for stricter rules on price hikes
Insurers could face disciplinary action after the Financial Conduct Authority said UK firms are not ready for stricter rules on price hikes on car and home insurance. From October 2021, new rules will come into force to ensure insurers offer better value policies to existing customers.
Read more about the warning at: www.theguardian.com/money/2021/aug/25/uk-insurers-not-ready-for-stricter-rules-on-price-hikes-watchdog says
Plastic waste
Plans to ban single-use plastic
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs has announced plans to stop the supply of a range of polluting plastics. Single-use plastic plates, cutlery and polystyrene cups are among the items that could be banned in England as part of a public consultation in the autumn.
Read more about the plans at: www.gov.uk/government/news/next-steps-to-tackle-plastic-waste
Food labelling
Most operators unprepared for new requirements
Eight in ten food business operators say they feel unprepared for new food safety regulations due to come into effect from 1 October 2021. Under Natasha’s Law, food businesses will be required to provide full ingredient lists and allergen information on foods pre-packaged for direct sale.
Read more about the requirements at: www.grocerygazette.co.uk/2021/09/01/8-out-of-10-business-owners-unprepared-for;iatashas-law
HGVs
Industry calls for decarbonisation plans before bans
The SMMT has urged the Government to work with industry to develop a plan for the transition to zero-emission HGVs before it commits to a date on banning sales of conventionally fuelled trucks. Currently, there is no technology that can provide full zero-emissions for all HGV weights and uses.
Read more about the issue at: www.smmt.eo.uk/2021/08/commercial-vehicle-industry-calls-for-decarbonisation-plans-before-bans
Housing
Unlocking small sites key to helping custom-build revolution
The Federation of Master Builders has urged the Government to back proposals set out in the independent review into scaling up self-build and custom housing. The review sets out recommendations to diversify the housing market and meet housing targets through self-building.
Read more about the review at: www.fmb.org.uk/resource/unlocking-small-sites-will-be-key-to-helping-custom-build-revolution-says-fmb.html
Forecourts
Guidance for retailers on cleaner petrol
The Association of Convenience Stores has published guidance to help forecourt retailers communicate changes to petrol sales to drivers. Since 1 September, more eco-friendly El O petrol is being rolled-out as the UK-wide standard petrol grade at pumps. However, 25% of drivers are unaware of El O petrol.
Read more about the El O petrol at: www.acs.org .uk/news/just-over-week-left-until-e10-fuel-g rade-ro llout
Green business
£450m fund to help businesses meet climate targets
Ofgem has launched a £450 million fund aimed at innovative projects that will help the country meet its net-zero climate targets. The money will be available to energy network companies to ensure homes and businesses are going green.
Read moreaboutthefundat: www.theguardian.com/business/2021/aug/31/ofgem-launches-450m-fund-to-help-homes-and-businesses-go green
DISCLAIMER While all reasonable efforts have been made, the publisher makes no warranties that this information is accurate and up-to-date.