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Dave Antrobus: AI Innovations in Healthcare Delivery

Danielle
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Dave Antrobus: AI Innovations in Healthcare Delivery

By 2030, artificial intelligence might add up to £22 billion to the UK’s healthcare. This shows how AI can change medical services. Dave Antrobus, from Inc & Co, leads this change. He’s using AI to shape the future of healthcare in the UK.

Healthcare systems face growing demands. Dave Antrobus uses tech to make healthcare better and more efficient. He’s not just updating systems; he’s changing how healthcare is delivered. His work with AI is making healthcare more accessible and sustainable.

Introduction to Dave Antrobus and His Vision

Dave Antrobus is a leading name in healthcare technology. His deep knowledge of tech and healthcare has led him to change how we think about medical services. In the UK, he’s helped shape the way digital health is viewed and used.

He’s always looking for new ways to innovate, acknowledged by top publications like The Guardian, The Independent (UK), and The New Statesman. Winning awards such as the Publishers Weekly Best Nonfiction Books of 2021, shows his dedication to advancing healthcare tech.

Dave sees a future where artificial intelligence (AI) plays a big part in healthcare. He believes AI can make treatment better, speed up services, and unlock new understanding from medical data. His ideas are practical, aiming to solve today’s issues in the UK’s healthcare.

His strategy uses AI to make healthcare more effective, personal, and within reach for everyone. Antrobus works with top medical and tech partners to bring these ideas to life. His efforts are not just about guessing the future; they’re about creating it to make sure AI benefits the UK’s health services. He is a beacon of innovation in medical tech.

The Role of AI in Modern Healthcare

Artificial intelligence is changing modern healthcare. It helps doctors in ways like never before. AI improves how patient care and health management work.

AI shines in patient care. It looks through lots of medical data quickly. This helps find diseases early and plan treatments that suit each person. It’s a big step towards better care in the future.

AI also makes medical solutions better. Robots do surgeries with extreme care, making fewer mistakes. AI helps in telemedicine too. It lets doctors see patients from far away, reaching those in need.

AI makes daily medical tasks better by using resources wisely. It does routine tasks, so healthcare workers can spend more time with patients. This cuts costs and makes patients happier. AI also helps in making quick, smart decisions in treatments.

The influence of AI in healthcare is growing fast. It’s leading to care that is more effective and efficient. With new tech, healthcare is heading towards a big change for the better.

AI Innovations by Dave Antrobus in Healthcare Delivery

Dave Antrobus has made big changes in healthcare using AI technology. He has developed AI tools that make medical tests more accurate. These tools are especially good at finding rare diseases. They helped people like Natalie Boyce, who deals with lupus and other health issues.

Dave Antrobus‘s work makes healthcare faster and more effective. AI doesn’t just help with diagnosing; it also helps with treatment plans. It can foresee complications, letting doctors help patients sooner. This was helpful in tricky situations, like Paris Hedger’s heart surgery, where AI guided care before and after the operation.

Moreover, Antrobus is improving how we do patient care from afar with AI telemedicine. This technology keeps an eye on patients all the time. It helps with long-term illness and recovery after surgery. With these new tools, patient care is getting better around the world. Dave Antrobus is leading a major change in how we provide healthcare today.

Impact of AI on Patient Care and Outcomes

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare. It’s making a real difference in how patient care is improved. Innovators like Dave Antrobus lead this change. They show us how healthcare benefits from technology.

One big win with AI is in customised care. It means treatments are designed just for you. This approach greatly improves medical care and the happiness of patients.

AI is also making diagnostics and treatment plans better. It uses machine learning to spot patterns in huge data sets. Patterns that doctors might miss. This leads to finding diseases earlier, which means a better chance of getting well.

AI helps doctors spend more time with patients. It takes care of admin tasks, boosting the quality of care.

AI predicts health problems before they get worse. It’s about keeping you healthy before issues become serious. This proactive care is changing how we address health concerns. It makes sure hospitals use their resources well. So, waiting times drop and patient experiences get better.

Tools powered by AI are key for remote care and telemedicine. They’re crucial in places where it’s hard to get healthcare. This way, more people can get the care they need, no matter where they live.

To wrap it up, AI’s role in healthcare is massive. Thanks to leaders like Dave Antrobus, the future of patient care looks bright. With ongoing innovation, AI will continue to improve how we get medical care and shape the future of healthcare.

Challenges in Implementing AI in Healthcare Delivery

Introducing artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare meets many challenges, from tech issues to budget limits. A key difficulty is merging this new tech into existing health systems. This often means big changes and lots of investment in both equipment and training staff to use AI properly.

There’s also a natural resistance to new methods among some healthcare workers. They may stick to what they know instead of trying something new. Plus, using AI must always consider how to keep patient data safe and private.

For smaller healthcare setups, the cost of AI is a big barrier. There are expenses like setting everything up, keeping it running, and regular updates. All of these costs can make it tough for them to take the plunge into AI.

Then, there are the practical issues of fitting AI into existing healthcare operations. It’s essential to mix AI smoothly with old systems without messing up patient services. This can often be tricky and take a lot of time.

Another big concern is making sure AI is fair and keeps patient information confidential. It’s vital to have strong rules to make sure AI does not become biased. And that it respects everyone’s privacy, keeping the trust of patients.

In summary, bringing AI into healthcare isn’t easy. There are many technical, financial, logistic, and ethical issues to solve. But overcoming these challenges is crucial for improving healthcare services and incorporating AI successfully.

Future of AI in Healthcare: Predictions by Dave Antrobus

Dave Antrobus has a vision for healthcare’s future, seeing AI at the heart of it. By 2022, hospitals are using more AI solutions, showing a big leap in medical tech investment. Antrobus believes this trend in AI usage will grow, improving healthcare and making it more efficient within five years.

He says new medical technologies powered by AI will change how we manage health. AI tools in diagnostics are already boosting patient care, making fewer errors, and giving personalised treatments. These advanced options, like the treatment for Paris Hedger’s rare lung condition, are more effective than traditional methods.

In Hedger’s case, AI was key in her complex surgery after an injury. It helped surgeons predict problems and improve their methods, leading to a safer 10-hour operation. AI platforms also make surgeries more efficient, focusing on patient safety and quicker recovery.

Dave Antrobus also points out that AI can make healthcare cheaper compared to traditional hospitals. The cost savings and AI’s ability to predict health trends are becoming more important. More healthcare professionals are starting to use AI, which could make patient care better and more engaging by 2023.

In summary, Antrobus’s predictions highlight how AI will change healthcare. It pushes medical technology forward and supports active health management. This means a future where healthcare is always evolving to better meet patient needs.

AI in Healthcare Delivery: Shaping the UK’s Medical Sector

AI technology is transforming UK healthcare in big ways. It brings faster tech growth and new solutions to improve patient care. This leads to better and quicker diagnosis, treatment, and admin tasks.

The UK is seeing big changes with AI in healthcare. It’s making patient care better and helping the medical sector grow. AI streamlines tasks and solves problems with more precision, making health services better for the future.

AI is especially good at analysing big data in healthcare. It finds patterns in medical data, helping doctors make better decisions. AI also predicts health issues before they happen, allowing for fast action.

AI also helps with healthcare strategies and policies. It’s helping solve big issues in the UK healthcare system. Thus, more investments and policies are coming up to support AI in healthcare. This is creating a better and more advanced healthcare sector.

What’s more, this tech push is opening doors for new partnerships. Different groups in healthcare are working together on AI projects. This teamwork is key to continuous progress and keeping the UK a leader in global healthcare.

To sum up, AI’s role in the UK’s healthcare is huge. It’s changing how healthcare works, leading to advancements, and helping the sector grow. This shift is crucial for a future with better healthcare for everyone.

Collaborations and Partnerships for AI Integration

Joining forces between tech giants and health institutions is key for AI in healthcare. This partnership brings together vast knowledge, sparking innovation and progress. Teams can tackle AI health challenges better together. For example, Delta Sharing’s launch in 2022 led Atlassian and Nasdaq to share data easier with others. This made data sharing in healthcare simpler and boosted teamwork across different fields.

Oracle now shares data openly thanks to Delta Sharing, helping customers get the data they need easily. Databricks’ D2O Delta Sharing also makes data sharing smooth, aiding AI in healthcare decisions. Atlassian’s success with Databricks’ open-source protocol shows that combining efforts can solve data sharing issues. This improves the outcomes in healthcare. Furthermore, companies use OSS connectors like Python and Microsoft Power BI to enhance collaboration in healthcare. The Tableau Delta Sharing connector, for instance, improves data flow between Databricks and Tableau. This not only boosts efficiency but also pushes AI healthcare projects ahead. These strategic collaborations are changing the way data is shared and used, highlighting teamwork’s role in healthcare’s future. By bringing together different skills and working as one, AI’s role in healthcare look more promising than ever.

Case Study: AI Implementation at Leighton Hospital

Leighton Hospital stands out in NHS trust innovation by including artificial intelligence in its care. This AI case study highlights how it has boosted efficiency and patient care.

Leighton Hospital has made progress with computer vision for spotting Lyme disease ticks, according to Akbarian et al. (2022). This shows AI’s potential to ease healthcare providers’ workload and make diagnosis quicker.

The hospital also uses deep learning to compare DNA for conditions like monkeypox, say Alakus & Baykara (2022). These efforts show the UK’s innovation and strengthen Leighton’s healthcare leadership.

Alsahli et al. (2021) reviewed AI’s use in keeping patient data safe during pandemics through edge computing. This improves Leighton Hospital’s outbreak management while protecting privacy.

The hospital’s buildings are being strengthened with autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC). This investment is vital for safer NHS facilities, according to government reviews of NHS project.

Leighton Hospital applies machine learning to watch and predict seasonal outbreaks using Twitter, notes Amin et al. (2021). This clever AI use demonstrates healthcare can prevent health crises proactively.

The hospital’s commitment to health service improvement mirrors wider trends for disease management noted by Banda et al. (2022). Its innovative approach offers a model for other institutions seeking healthcare excellence.

Conclusion

The journey through AI’s role in healthcare, led by Dave Antrobus, shows its big impact. Antrobus has been a key player, bringing AI to places like Leighton Hospital. His work combines AI with healthcare, improving patient care in the UK and beyond.

This article’s view on the future of healthcare with AI is quite hopeful. It shows that AI can bring better, data-driven methods to help doctors and nurses. Though there are hurdles, the efforts of Antrobus and his team are moving us towards better healthcare through AI.

As AI gets more advanced, the benefits for patient care keep growing. The successes seen in appointments and finances show the strong leadership of people like Antrobus. With AI slowly becoming part of healthcare, the UK is moving towards being a leader in quality medical care.

Ascot Mortgages: Trusted Expertise in the UK Mortgage Industry

Danielle
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Ascot Mortgages: Trusted Expertise in the UK Mortgage Industry

Ascot Mortgages is a premier mortgage advisory service located in Warrington, UK. With a steadfast commitment to providing personalised mortgage and protection advice, Ascot Mortgages ensures that every client receives tailored solutions to meet their unique financial needs. The company’s ethos is built on trust, expertise, and a client-centric approach, making it a reliable choice for those seeking mortgage advice.

A Remarkable Career Spanning 48 Years

Alison Gibson, the esteemed director of Ascot Mortgages, boasts an impressive 48-year career in the UK mortgage industry. Starting as a young school-leaver, Alison’s journey from an enthusiastic banking novice to a highly respected expert highlights her unwavering dedication to her profession and clients.

Educational Background and Certifications

Alison’s path to expertise began at 16, diving into the banking world straight out of school. Over the years, she accumulated critical certifications, including the CeMAP (Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice) and CeRER (Certificate in Regulated Equity Release). These qualifications underpin her deep understanding of the mortgage landscape.

Diverse Expertise Across Mortgage Sectors

Throughout her illustrious career, Alison has worn many hats: Banking Adviser, Mortgage Adviser, and Bank Manager. Her extensive experience covers various sectors, including:

  • Residential Mortgages
  • Buy-to-Let Mortgages
  • Bridging Loans
  • Commercial Mortgages
  • Equity Release (her specialty)

Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

Alison’s greatest pride lies in her dedication to customer satisfaction. She believes that a client’s happiness is the ultimate testament to her success. This client-first approach ensures that Alison provides the best advice and support, always prioritising her clients’ needs.

Recognised Industry Leader

Alison’s expertise has earned her national recognition. She has appeared on the Martin Lewis Money Show, offering her insights to a broader audience. Additionally, she is a proud member of the LIBF (London Institute of Banking and Finance) and the NACFB (National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers), reflecting her commitment to professionalism and ethical standards.

Staying Ahead in the Industry

Alison remains informed about the latest developments in UK mortgage laws, regulations, and market trends. She actively participates in BDM (Business Development Manager) meetings with lenders, attends seminars, and stays updated through FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) newsletters and professional publications.

A Lifelong Career Aligned with Personal Values

Choosing banking as a career from a young age, Alison’s personal values align perfectly with her professional approach. She is driven by a passion for exceptional customer service and a commitment to helping clients realise their dreams.

Life Beyond Finance

Outside of her professional life, Alison cherishes time with her family, especially her two grandsons. Her energetic 6-month-old cockapoo keeps her active, and she enjoys watching movies in the cinema. Holidays in the sun provide her with the perfect recharge, enabling her to return to work with renewed energy.

Inspiring Journey of Dedication

Alison Gibson’s journey from a young banking enthusiast to a seasoned Mortgage and Protection Adviser exemplifies her dedication to her clients and her craft. With nearly five decades of experience, she continues to make a positive impact in the UK mortgage industry, one satisfied client at a time.

Why Choose Ascot Mortgages?

Choosing Ascot Mortgages means choosing a team that puts your needs first. With Alison Gibson at the helm, clients are assured of expert advice, personalised service, and a commitment to their financial well-being. Whether you need assistance with residential mortgages, buy-to-let investments, or equity release, Ascot Mortgages is here to guide you every step of the way.

For more information, visit Ascot Mortgages and learn how Alison Gibson and her team can assist you with your mortgage needs.

Ferobide – Reducing operating costs in Agriculture, Construction and Mining

Josh Haines
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Ferobide – Reducing operating costs in Agriculture, Construction and Mining

Tenmat, a leading manufacturer of advanced materials and components, has a range of world-renowned composite and polymer materials, including Ferobide, Feroform, Feroglide, Ferosafe and Railko. 

Ferobide is a highly effective solution for reducing operating costs in the agricultural, mining and construction sectors.

This tungsten carbide composite is one of the most wear-resistant materials in the world, it is already trusted globally as a reliable solution for minimising equipment downtime. By preventing wear part damage, Ferobide is able to deliver lasting results which minimise equipment downtime and therefore aid in decreasing operating costs. 

Ferobide in Farming

Farmers who utilise Ferobide can experience dramatic savings by extending the life of their equipment, reducing the need for frequent replacements and repairs. 

For instance, implementing Ferobide has allowed some farms to extend the service life of cultivator wings and legs by several seasons, cutting down metal wear expenses by up to two-thirds. This not only minimises downtime but also boosts overall operational efficiency and profitability.

When used on soil-engaging equipment parts, Ferobide enhances durability against abrasive soil conditions, which can significantly decrease the frequency of part replacements. 

A case study involving sugar cane mills showed that equipment outfitted with Ferobide experienced less wear compared to traditional hard-facing materials, leading to longer operational periods between maintenance shutdowns.

Ferobide in Construction and Mining

In the mining and construction industries, Ferobide has proven effective in increasing the lifespan of equipment parts exposed to extreme wear and tear.

In mining operations, Ferobide is used on drilling equipment to enhance durability against the harsh, abrasive conditions found underground. This results in fewer drill bit replacements and reduced downtime.

In construction, Ferobide can be applied to loader buckets and other machinery that frequently contacts abrasive materials like gravel and crushed rock. This application significantly extends the service life of these high-wear parts, leading to lower maintenance costs and less frequent equipment replacements.

The Benefits of Ferobide 

When used correctly and welded onto suitable surfaces, Ferobide has numerous benefits, which include: 

  • Significant savings on wearing metal costs
  • Increased wear part lifetime
  • Reduction in machinery downtime for maintenance
  • Increased operational efficiency due to a reduction in downtime
  • Quick and easy to weld

For additional information, please contact Tenmat directly. 

https://tenmatwear.com/contact-tenmat

ThetaRay Transforms AI Financial Crime Detection with Screena Acquisition

ABC Staff
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ThetaRay Transforms AI Financial Crime Detection with Screena Acquisition

The acquisition marks a significant milestone in ThetaRay’s mission to leverage AI in combating financial crime.

As a leading comprehensive, cloud-based financial crime detection platform, ThetaRay empowers financial institutions to identify trusted transactions and customers across all banking activities. This innovation recently earned ThetaRay an award for Best Use of Data for Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery Detection, in collaboration with Santander UK.

ThetaRay, the leading provider of AI-powered financial crime detection technology, has announced the acquisition of the next-generation European screening company, Screena. This acquisition underscores ThetaRay’s commitment to investing in proprietary technology and solidifies its mission to help banks, fintechs, and regulators detect financial crime using state-of-the-art AI solutions.

Screena assists financial institutions in preventing wrongdoing without impacting legitimate parties by screening individuals, companies, and other entities against numerous sanctioned party lists. This ensures compliance with international laws and regulations, while promoting global trade, protecting reputations, and enhancing financial security.

ThetaRay, operational in over 40 countries across six continents, is evolving from a leader in AI-powered Transaction Monitoring solutions to a comprehensive, cloud-based financial crime detection platform used by over 100 financial institutions, including Santander, Payoneer, and Travelex. This strategic acquisition integrates Screena’s advanced, cloud-based AI-driven screening solution into ThetaRay’s product suite, offering financial institutions an unparalleled, holistic view of transactional and customer screening risks.

ThetaRay’s clients can detect various financial crimes such as money laundering, terrorist financing, and drug trafficking. Recently, in a global effort to combat modern slavery, Santander UK partnered with ThetaRay to deploy advanced technology aimed at detecting human trafficking within financial transactions. This collaboration was honored with the “Best Use of Data for Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery Detection” award at the Digital Transformation Awards in June 2024.

ThetaRay’s product suite ensures that financial institutions can quickly and effectively comply with complex regulatory requirements. Additionally, ThetaRay facilitates seamless customer onboarding and transaction flows, enabling companies to scale rapidly and seize business opportunities while fostering growth across diverse business lines.

“The acquisition of Screena is a significant milestone for ThetaRay as we continue our mission to power the global fight against financial crime by enhancing our offerings with the most advanced AI capabilities. It furthers our commitment to delivering an end-to-end platform that enables banks, fintechs, and regulators to effectively identify financial crime – vital capabilities to grow and operate a financial institution today,” remarked Peter Reynolds, CEO of ThetaRay. “The recent launch of our Customer Risk Assessment (CRA) product this year and the mass adoption of our leading Transaction Monitoring offering demonstrates both a clear need in the market and our proven ability to build pioneering solutions. We are delighted to have closed our first acquisition, bringing key capabilities and further establishing our already rapidly growing presence in Europe.”

“The need for international, cross-border payments, and business corridors between Europe and Africa, South America and the US, and many locations around the world requires the use of AI and advanced technology to make sure that the transactions are trusted, and that the people behind them are trusted,” said Erel Margalit, Chairman of ThetaRay, and Founder and Chairman of JVP. “ThetaRay’s AI also establishes a highway for the good actors that require an international payment network to do their business. The acquisition of Screena advances the ability to identify bad actors, whether it’s money laundering, drug trafficking, or terrorist financing in a much more pointed way. This move is a testament to ThetaRay’s mission of thwarting financial crime and continuously enhancing capabilities to win this critical fight on our journey to becoming a category leader.”

Cédric Iggiotti, CEO of Screena, stated, “Integrating with ThetaRay has been a game-changer for us at Screena, revealing the true potential of combining Transaction Monitoring, Screening, and Customer Risk Assessment. For too long, screening was siloed from other critical financial crime detection tools. Our partnership with ThetaRay not only meets stringent regulatory demands but also significantly enhances our crime detection capabilities, as evidenced by our recent successes with major financial institutions. Looking ahead, we are excited to push the boundaries of what’s possible in building a more trustworthy financial ecosystem.”

Logistics Sector Begins To Normalise Following Post-Pandemic Surge

ABC Staff
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Logistics Sector Begins To Normalise Following Post-Pandemic Surge

Global Logistics sector shows signs of normalisation after post-pandemic boom

  • · UPS is the most valuable logistics brand ranked for a decade, valued at USD34.6 billion
  • · JR remains strongest logistics brand ranked, followed by JINGDONG Logistics and MTR
  • · CPKC’s brand value surges by 28% while DoorDash and dpd trail behind
  • · UPS has the highest Sustainability Perceptions Value at USD3 billion and also holds the Highest Positive Gap Value at USD224 million

This year, the logistics industry is showing signs of normalization following the post-pandemic boom, according to a new report by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Leading logistics brands like UPS and FedEx have reported lower shipment volumes and reduced consumer spending compared to the high-demand periods immediately after the pandemic.

Despite this trend, the Brand Finance Logistics 25 2024 ranking is still led by UPS, which retains its position as the most valuable logistics brand for the 10th consecutive year, with a brand value of USD34.6 billion (down 2%). FedEx follows as the second-most valuable brand, with a brand value of USD28.6 billion (down 1%), and Germany’s DHL is third, valued at USD12.2 billion (down 3%).

Japan-based JR remains the strongest global logistics brand, despite a 14% drop in brand value to USD11.9 billion, earning a AAA rating and a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 86.9 out of 100. China’s JINGDONG Logistics (JD Logistics or JDL) is the second strongest, with a 1% rise in brand value to USD3.5 billion, improving its brand strength rating from AA+ to AAA and scoring 85.2 out of 100 in its BSI. MTR ranks third, with a 3% decline in brand value to USD3.5 billion, retaining its AAA- rating and obtaining a BSI score of 83.1 out of 100.

Richard Haigh, Managing Director of Brand Finance commented:

“Despite the cooling demand and inflationary pressures we’re seeing this year, the logistics industry is showing remarkable resilience and strategic adaptation.    
“As the market transitions in the post pandemic era, shaped by overcapacity, shifting consumer demands and geopolitical tensions, industry titans epitomise excellence and visionary leadership to remain competitive.” 

Brand Finance also utilises its Global Brand Equity Monitor (GBEM) research to compile a Sustainability Perceptions Index. The study determines the role of sustainability in driving brand consideration across sectors and offers insight into which brands global consumers believe to be most committed to sustainability.

For individual brands, the Index displays the proportion of brand value attributable to sustainability perceptions. This Sustainability Perceptions Value is the financial value contingent on a brand’s reputation for acting sustainably. From here, Brand Finance’s perceptual research is analysed alongside CSRHub’s environmental, social and governance performance data to determine a brand’s ‘gap value’. This is the value at risk or to be gained, based on the difference between sustainability perceptions and actual performance.

The 2024 Sustainability Perceptions Index finds that in the logistics sector, UPS has the highest Sustainability Perceptions Value of USD3 billion and the highest positive gap value of USD224 million among brands in the rankings. A positive gap value means that brand sustainability performance is stronger than perceived: brands can add value through enhanced communication about their sustainability efforts, so that perceptions are raised to fully account for the brand’s actual sustainability performance. UPS’s gap value suggests that it could generate an additional USD224 million in potential value through enhanced communication of its impact and accomplishments in sustainability.

 

What the Treasury’s Decision to Phase Out 1p and 2p Coins Means for SMEs

ABC Staff
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What the Treasury’s Decision to Phase Out 1p and 2p Coins Means for SMEs

Following the Treasury’s announcement to halt the production of new 1p and 2p coins from The Royal Mint this year, concerns have arisen about the potential extinction of copper coins. Although a Treasury spokesperson assured that the coins are not being phased out entirely, many are anxious about the impact on cash-dependent businesses.

SumUp, experts in card payments, are emphasizing how traditionally cash-reliant industries have successfully integrated card payment options. They highlight that cards and cash can coexist without one needing to replace the other.

Are People Still Using Cash?

For businesses dependent on cash transactions, there is no need for immediate concern. SumUp’s analysis of recent YouGov data indicates that 29% of Brits still frequently make cash payments, with 7% almost always using cash. Only 8% of adults reported never using cash.

The data reveals that both the 18-24 and 65+ age groups are the most likely to almost always pay in cash, at 8%. Additionally, men are more likely than women to use cash, with 9% of men almost always paying in cash compared to 6% of women.

How Cash-Dependent SMEs Can Incorporate Digital Payments

To enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and cater to a wider customer base, cash-reliant businesses can adopt the following digital payment methods:

  • Point of Sale (POS) Systems: Invest in modern POS systems that accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments, including NFC methods.
  • Mobile Payment Solutions: Utilize mobile payment apps to accept payments via smartphones and tablets.
  • Online Invoicing and Payments: Offer online invoicing with integrated payment options.
  • QR Code Payments: Implement QR code payment options, displaying QR codes at checkout or on receipts for customers to scan and pay using mobile banking apps or digital wallets.
  • eCommerce Platforms: Set up an eCommerce website or use platforms to facilitate online sales and digital payments.
  • Payment Links: Send payment links via email or SMS, enabling customers to click and pay through a secure online portal.

These digital payment methods can help businesses adapt to the evolving payment landscape while maintaining the option of cash transactions.

Corin Camenisch, Product Marketing Lead at SumUp, discusses how SMEs can adopt card payment methods alongside cash to align with consumer spending habits: “We won’t see previously cash-reliant industries die; we will just see them innovate. Businesses need to adapt to work in the digital environment as well as cash. Offering both payment options will only help your business and cater to all customer payment preferences.”

8 cash-reliant businesses that have successfully adopted card payment

SumUp also highlights that many businesses and sectors have successfully embraced card payments to meet changing consumer preferences and increase sales by accommodating customers who prefer not to carry cash, such as:

  1. Taxis: Traditional taxi services have widely adopted card payments,
  2. Street vendors and food vans: Many now accept card payments through mobile point-of-sale systems.
  3. Market stalls: Vendors at local markets increasingly offer card payment options.
  4. Small local shops and convenience stores: Many have transitioned from cash-only to accepting cards.
  5. Vending machines: Modern vending machines often accept card payments and cash.
  6. Parking meters: Many cities have upgraded to systems that accept card payments for parking.
  7. Public transport: Buses in many cities and towns now offer card-based payment options.
  8. Barbers and hairdressers: Many small, independent salon businesses now accept card payments.

Adopting mobile payment technologies and point-of-sale systems has facilitated this transition for many small businesses and individual vendors.

UK Prime Minister Ranked 29th in Global Leadership Salaries and Third in the UK

Danielle
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UK Prime Minister Ranked 29th in Global Leadership Salaries and Third in the UK

Research by Talent Insight Group shows that Sir Keir Starmer’s salary as UK Prime Minister is comparatively low on the global stage and also falls behind the earnings of the Scottish First Minister and the Irish Taoiseach.

In terms of pay, the First Minister of Scotland receives £4,430 more annually than the UK Prime Minister and earns over 127 times more per capita. Meanwhile, the Irish Taoiseach’s salary surpasses Sir Keir’s by over £28,000, equating to more than 12 times more per head of population.

As UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir is entitled to a £172,153 salary and access to several official residences, including 10 Downing Street, Chequers, Dorneywood, Chevening, and Stormont. However, the value of the Prime Minister’s salary has decreased over time, with a standard backbench MP now earning £91,346 upon entering the House of Commons.

Additionally, 278 senior government officials and 57 senior BBC staff are known to earn more than the Prime Minister. The highest earners in the public sector include the Chief Executive Officer of HS2, the Chief Executive Officer of Network Rail, and the Director General of the BBC, each earning over half a million pounds annually.

Glen Hall, Chairman of Talent Insight Group, stated, “We regularly benchmark senior roles in this pay range, and while I’m not in the habit of arguing for higher-paid politicians, the data shows there is a case to be made. Normally, we speak to post-holders and lean heavily on primary data to form a full picture. We’ve made an exception in this case, but if any current or former Prime Ministers would like to contribute, we’re here to listen!”

Download the full report here: Benchmarking the Prime Minister’s Pay.

More Than 14 Billion Smartphones Have Been Shipped Over The Past Ten Years

ABC Staff
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More Than 14 Billion Smartphones Have Been Shipped Over The Past Ten Years

The global smartphone industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, and 2024 is expected to continue this trend. After fluctuating demand, it is anticipated that the global appetite for new smartphones will decline once again this year, delaying the anticipated market recovery. Despite struggling to maintain the growth rates observed in 2021, the overall number of smartphone shipments has continued to rise, reaching impressive totals over the past decade.

Data from AltIndex.com reveals that global smartphone shipments have totaled 14 billion units over the past ten years.

The peak years for smartphone sales in the past decade were 2015, 2016, and 2017, with each year averaging around 1.4 billion shipments. However, the industry has faced setbacks due to component shortages, inventory issues, and extended replacement cycles, leading to a $15 billion decline in sales over three years. In 2024, global smartphone sales are projected to generate $486 billion in revenue, a decrease from the over $500 billion recorded in 2021, according to Statista. Despite these challenges, smartphone sales have still achieved impressive figures.

The IDC Worldwide Mobile Phone Tracker survey indicates that smartphone manufacturers have shipped more than 14 billion units globally since Q1 2014. Notably, 2015, 2016, and 2017 were the best years for smartphone sales in the past decade, with average shipments of 1.4 billion units. The market saw a downturn in subsequent years, with shipments falling to 1.28 billion during the initial year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although there was a rebound in 2021, the decline persisted through 2022 and 2023, with a further 13% drop in shipments.

In the first half of 2024, IDC data shows a positive trend, with smartphone shipments rising nearly 40 million year-over-year to 574.8 million. However, demand remains challenging in many regions, and global shipment figures are still below the market peak.

Samsung has remained the leader in global smartphone sales, shipping 2.99 billion units over the past decade, surpassing Apple by 743 million units, which shipped 2.24 billion units during the same period. Despite being the top seller, Samsung’s market share has significantly decreased from 30.7% in Q1 2014 to 18.9% in Q2 2024. Meanwhile, Apple’s market share has remained stable at 15.8% in Q2 2024.

Chinese competitors have shown notable growth over the past ten years. Xiaomi has surpassed the one-billion mark in shipments, capturing a 14.8% market share in Q2 2024, up from a fraction of that a decade ago. Oppo and Vivo have also seen substantial growth, with 937 million and 528 million smartphones shipped, respectively.

For further details and statistics, visit: AltIndex.

FREY acquires ROS, The 4th Largest Outlet Operator In Europe

ABC Staff
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FREY acquires ROS, The 4th Largest Outlet Operator In Europe

FREY, already one of Europe’s top developers, owners, and managers of large-scale retail parks and open-air shopping centers, is further accelerating its growth with two strategic operations. Strengthening its position as Europe’s leading player in open-air shopping destinations, FREY now boasts 31 operational sites across nine European countries, with a portfolio valued at over 3 billion euros.

Antoine Frey, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FREY, made the following statement:
“We are delighted to announce a major strategic operation for FREY. The signature of the binding acquisition agreement of ROS, Europe’s 4th-largest outlet operator, will not only give us access to a very high-performing asset class but also offer us vastly diversified geographic exposure. ROS is a fabulous company led by some of the outlet market’s most talented individuals and has successfully risen to the very top of the league in Europe. FREY’s strategy will focus on stepping up ROS’ position in third-party management but also on tapping into its experience and reputation in order to build up a portfolio that is dedicated specifically to outlets by acquiring or developing assets. The first example of this strategy is the recently launched operation to develop the Malmö Designer Village. FREY now boasts over 31 open-air shopping destinations in operation across 9 European countries and is thus consolidating its leading position in the retail asset classes that are most sought after by consumers, chains, brands and investors alike”.

Both operations focus on outlets, a format of open-air shopping centers that FREY previously did not include in its portfolio. These centers, also known as designer outlets, attract both consumers and retail chains for several reasons. For consumers, outlets offer excellent value for money, an upscale shopping experience, and enhance the pleasure of shopping, with their catchment areas extending beyond those of traditional shopping centers. For brand partners, these locations provide opportunities to expand their client base and strengthen their brand positioning. Financially, outlets deliver high sales per square meter and low Occupancy Cost Ratios (OCRs) for brand partners, while also generating higher margins than traditional shopping formats. This is achieved by clearing out previous year collections and overstocks, with lower operating expenses compared to high street locations. A study by specialist consultancy Ken Gunn Consulting indicates that Europe’s outlets should see average annual sales growth of 9% from 2023 to 2026.

FREY and ROS share the same views on developing an approach to retailing that is responsible and engaged; such an approach can enhance both the client’s experience and the retailer’s performance.

This shared DNA will generate sizeable industrial and commercial synergies:

• New greenfield and brownfield projects can be developed by combining FREY’s expertise in development and financing arrangement with the close partnerships that ROS maintains with all the brand partners in its outlets

• ROS’ marketing clout will improve FREY’s ability to tap into the very essence of the catchment areas surrounding its assets

• Last of all, the two groups’ tenant portfolios are highly complementary, which means that they will be able to enrich and enhance the merchandising mix offered by the assets they own and manage.

GROWTH

As an asset class, designer outlets remain something of a niche as there are only 210 such assets in Europe and their ownership is still very fragmented. The strategic objective is two-fold: to build up ROS’ third-party management activity in a drive to expand its coverage across Europe, and to create a real estate investment platform that is geared specifically to outlets. This platform will be populated with acquisitions of existing assets, greenfield developments as well as projects to transform existing traditional retail assets into outlets. ROS’ expertise will enable it to source such opportunities, assess their suitability and work alongside FREY to develop these projects. All assets acquired or developed in this manner will subsequently be managed by ROS.

A EUROPE-WIDE, MISSION-DRIVEN COMPANY

FREY was the real estate industry’s first firm to obtain B Corp certification and become a mission-driven company. FREY’s decision to restore retail as a service for the common good began to take shape back in 2021 in the form of a large-scale effort to transform the way it operates, the aim being to factor its mission into each and every one of its choices. ROS’ entire staff fully adheres to these values. FREY is therefore going to take the very same processes that have inspired its mission for 3 years now and apply them across ROS’ entire business chain; its continuous improvement approach geared towards positive impact will thus be able to take on a European dimension.

MBA programs online: Which is the most affordable?

ABC Staff
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MBA programs online: Which is the most affordable?

Top 10 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs in 2024

New research has identified the most affordable MBA programs in the US, with Northeastern State University leading the list. Research.com, a university ranking site, evaluated various universities offering online MBA programs by examining their estimated tuition per credit hour for non-residents and the total number of credits required. This analysis resulted in a ranking of the most cost-effective options.

Northeastern State University emerged as the most affordable, with an estimated tuition cost of $251 per credit hour for a total of 36 credits. Its online MBA program includes topics such as business analytics, accounting, finance, and Native American enterprises, and can be completed entirely online or in a blended format at the NSU Broken Arrow Campus.

Georgia Southwestern State University ranked second, with an estimated tuition cost of $257 per credit hour for a total of 30 credits. Core courses in this program cover advanced business finance, international business practice, and organizational theory and behavior, requiring a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Fitchburg State University placed third, with an estimated tuition cost of $275 per credit hour for a total of 30 credits. The Massachusetts-based university offers online MBAs in finance, marketing, accounting, and other fields, allowing completion in as little as 12 months, making it both affordable and time-efficient.

Eastern New Mexico University came in fourth, with an estimated tuition cost of $297.25 per credit hour for a total of 30 credits. This program focuses on developing general managerial skills across all major functional areas of business and requires a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in all CPC courses.

Missouri State University ranked fifth, with an estimated tuition cost of $309 per credit hour for a total of 33 credits. In addition to the MBA, Missouri State offers graduate certificates that can be completed online within the MBA program.

The University of the Cumberlands is sixth, with an estimated tuition cost of $315 per credit hour for a total of 37 credits. This program offers several concentrations, including entrepreneurship and healthcare administration.

Sam Houston State University is seventh, with an estimated tuition cost of $320 per credit hour for a total of 36 credits. This flexible program offers start dates in the fall, spring, and summer.

The University of Central Arkansas is eighth, with an estimated tuition cost of $325 per credit hour for a total of 30 credits. Students can choose concentrations in healthcare administration, information management, or finance.

Texas Tech University ranks ninth, with an estimated tuition cost of $333 per credit hour for a total of 30 credits. Texas Tech’s Rawls College of Business online MBA program offers the option to study full-time or part-time.

Southeastern Oklahoma State University rounds out the top ten, with an estimated tuition cost of $337 per credit hour for a total of 36 credits. This program includes coursework in finance, accounting, economics, behavioral management, research, and data analysis.

Top 10 most affordable online MBA programs 

MBA

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