October 1st, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

American Express has brought back its popular series of limited-time sign-up offers, including one of the largest points offers on the Gold Card. Eligible new Gold Cardmembers can earn 40,000 bonus Membership Rewards^® points, while new Platinum Cardmembers can earn 80,000 points when they meet required spend thresholds.

Golden opportunity

Eligible new Gold Cardmembers can now earn 40,000 Membership Rewards^® points when they successfully apply and are approved by 14 October 2025 and spend £5,000 in their first six months. The offer is double the usual maximum 20,000 points. 40,000 Membership Rewards^® points can be redeemed as £180*to offset purchases made on the Card.

The American Express^® Preferred Reward Gold Card is free for the first year and comes with a range of benefits including four Priority Pass lounge visits each year, two £5 Deliveroo statement credits per month, and enhanced points-earning opportunities, including 3x points for every £1 spent on American Express^® Travel.

A Platinum Reward

Eligible new Platinum Cardmembers can receive 80,000 bonus Membership Rewards^® points, when they successfully apply for the Card and spend £10,000 in their first six months. The offer is higher than the usual maximum of 50,000 points. 80,000 Membership Rewards^® points can be redeemed as £360* to offset purchases made on the Card.

As well as earning Membership Rewards^® points, Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy a £400 Global Dining Credit to spend at selected restaurants, as well exclusive hotel benefits with Fine Hotels & Resorts such as guaranteed 4pm late check-out. Additional benefits include travel insurance for the Cardmember and their family and complementary access to over 1,550 airport lounges around the world. The Platinum Card^® has an annual fee of £650, with the benefits valued at more than £3,000.

Invite A Friend enhanced offer

In addition to these new sign-up offers, American Express is also enhancing the Invite a Friend referral programme, available until 14 October 2025.

Gold Cardmembers who successfully refer a friend are eligible to receive 14,000 Membership Rewards points, up from 9,000. The referred friend will receive 45,000 points, compared with the 22,000 points they would normally receive, when they spend £5,000 in their first six months after being approved for the Gold Card.

Current Platinum Cardmembers who successfully refer a friend are eligible to receive 18,000 Membership Rewards points, up from 12,000, while the referred friend will receive 100,000 points, and is nearly double the usual 55,000 points on offer, if they spend £10,000 in the first six months after being approved for the Platinum Card^®. 100,000 Membership Rewards^® points can be redeemed as £450* to offset purchases made on the Card.

Cardmembers simply need to follow the instructions in the Amex ^® App or their Online Account to find their referral link. The friend must be approved for the relevant Card before the Cardmember receives their points, and existing Cardmembers can earn a maximum of 90,000 bonus points from referrals each year.

Business Card sign-up offers

Cardmembers applying for American Express® Business Platinum and Gold Cards will, from today, also have the ability to earn additional Membership Rewards® points.

Until 14 October 2025, applicants approved for a Business Gold Card can earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points when they spend £6,000 in the first three months. Those approved for a Business Platinum Card can earn up to 120,000 Membership Rewards points when they spend £12,000 in the first three months.

Earning and redeeming rewards

Amex is now accepted in more places than ever before including every major supermarket chain, leading high street brands and hundreds of thousands of small businesses, meaning there are even more ways to earn rewards on everyday spending.

Membership Rewards points can be redeemed in a variety of ways. For example, 40,000 points can be redeemed as £180* to offset purchases made on the card. Points can also be redeemed for gift vouchers across a wide selection of shopping, travel and lifestyle partners. You can also use them to shop online, transfer to airline loyalty programmes or redeem against flights and hotels with Amex Travel. To explore the full range of rewards, Cardmembers can visit Membership Rewards ^® online or head to the Amex^® App.

Dave Edwards, Vice President, American Express, stated: “We are excited to announce the launch of our limited-time offers for Gold and Platinum Cards, making our products even more rewarding for our Cardmembers. These offers will give new and existing Cardmembers the chance to earn increased Membership Rewards^® points that can be used in a variety of ways including on travel, dining and shopping.”

October 1st, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Warehouse organization is one of the most overlooked but vital elements of a successful supply chain. Whether you run a large distribution center or you have a much smaller operation, a tidy and well structured warehouse directly impacts productivity, safety and profitability. Poor organization means wasted time, misplaced inventory and increased operational costs. These are problems that no business can afford to ignore.

An effective solution that many businesses use to enhance organization is incorporating Algeco storage containers into their warehouse setup. These secure and durable units provide flexible storage options for excess inventory, seasonal stock, tools and equipment. They are especially useful during warehouse reconfigurations, peak trading periods, or when temporary extra space is necessary. Containers alone won’t fix an inefficiency in your warehouse though, so here are five more options to help you to keep your space running smoothly.

1. Implement a clear layout. An organised warehouse starts with a smart layout used to find zones for receiving, storage, picking, packing and shipping. Keep high demand items close to shipping areas and separate hazardous or sensitive materials to prevent contamination or safety hazards. A clear, logical layout reduces time spent searching for items and streamlines workflow from start to finish.
2. Label everything clearly. Often underutilised labelling as a game changer for warehouse efficiency. Investing in clear, durable labels for shelf bins and pallets is important, and you can use barcodes or QR codes for easy digital tracking and fast scanning. Labelling improves inventory accuracy while also helping new staff and temporary workers to navigate the space with minimal training.
3. Complete regular audits. Warehouses are not static environments. Stock levels fluctuate, product lines change, and operations grow. Schedule regular audits to review inventory levels, shelf usage, and traffic flow.Identify slow moving items and consider whether they can be relocated, discounted or stored in offsite containers like those from Algeco. Continuous improvement ensures that your layout evolves with your business needs.
4. Invest in the right storage solutions. Every product category has its own storage needs. Pilot racking, bin shelving, mezzanine floors, and mobile units also have different purposes. Pick a solution that matches your inventory type and volume. For bulky or irregular items, external storage containers can be an ideal way to free up internal space while keeping assets secure and accessible.
5. Train and empower your staff. Your warehouse is only as efficient as the people running it. Providing ongoing training on best practices and inventory, handling safety protocols and digital systems is important. Encourage feedback from the floor. Your staff will often spot inefficiencies that you may have overlooked.Empowered employees are more likely to maintain a clean and orderly workspace.

Keeping your warehouse organised isn’t just about aesthetics, but about improving operational efficiency, ensuring safety and supporting growth. While storage containers are a great idea, lasting improvement comes from a combination of smart systems and staff engagement.

September 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

When you’re driving along and a new, unwelcome noise starts, or a warning light flashes on the dashboard, your heart sinks. You immediately think about the unbudgeted expense heading your way at a time when every pound is accounted for.

By adopting a few proactive measures, you can try to limit the impact of these car shocks and decrease the risk of a potential crisis.

1. Reevaluate your car insurance regularly.

It’s easy to allow your car insurance to auto-renew each year out of convenience, assuming your loyalty will be rewarded. Unfortunately, this is not always true. The “loyalty penalty” can cost you hundreds of pounds. Where you could be negotiating or researching better policies, you settle for whatever is quick and easy.

You can browse comparison websites and get quotes from various insurers, which could effectively lead to substantial savings.

2. Maintain a clean driving record.

Your driving history is a key factor insurers use to calculate your premium. Penalty points for offences like speeding or using a mobile phone at the wheel will lead to a noticeable increase in your insurance costs for several years. Conversely, each year you drive without making a claim builds your No Claims Discount (NCD).

In the long term, a clean slate can significantly reduce your motoring expenses.

3. Regular vehicle maintenance

Small car problems, if left unattended, often escalate into major, expensive failures. For instance, replacing a worn timing belt at the recommended interval might cost a few hundred pounds, but if it snaps, it can cause catastrophic engine damage, costing thousands to repair.

You don’t need to be a mechanic to perform these basic checks. Learning how to check your oil, coolant, and windscreen wash levels, and regularly monitoring your tyre pressures, is a useful skill to have that can save you money in the long run.

4. Be cautious with modifications

Personalising your car can be appealing, but you should proceed with caution.

Car modifications like fitting new alloy wheels or remapping the engine for more power can have a damaging impact. Firstly, you must declare all changes to your insurer. Failure to do so could invalidate your policy, meaning they could refuse to pay out in the event of a claim.

Secondly, modifications often lead to higher insurance premiums, as they can make the car more attractive to thieves or increase its performance and risk profile.

5. Keep an emergency car fund

Even with the best preparation, unexpected costs can still arise. A failed MOT or the need for four new tyres can all result in a bill running to several hundred pounds. Rather than relying on a high-interest credit card or a loan, the best defence is a dedicated emergency fund. You can create this by setting up a standing order to a separate savings account, putting away a small, manageable amount each month. Even £25 a month soon builds up. Having this financial buffer means that when an unexpected bill does land, you can pay for it without stress or debt. It turns a financial emergency into a simple transaction, giving you invaluable peace of mind.

September 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Finding the perfect place to buy your first home is no easy task. You want somewhere affordable, but you also need access to your work, some sort of social life, and a bit of peace of mind for the future.

And, of course, you don’t want to end up in a neighbourhood that’s likely to leave you wishing you’d put off buying for another year.

So, let’s cut to the chase and talk about four locations that are ready to tick all the right boxes.

Manchester – a city choice with perks

This is a city that’s hard to ignore for first-time buyers. The buzz, the culture, the sheer variety of properties on offer – all make it a top contender for first-timers.

Whether you’re looking for a sleek flat in the city centre or a cosy terrace in one of its up-and-coming suburbs, you’ve got options. Plus, the city’s constantly growing, which means more opportunities down the line.

Don’t forget the excellent transport links to the rest of the UK – handy for when you want to head out of town, but even better for keeping your commute to a minimum.

The average first-time buyer property in Manchester is around £35,000 below the British average. So, what are you waiting for?

Knowsley, Merseyside – exceptional value with rising demand

If you’re looking for fantastic value and a location that’s steadily gaining popularity, Knowsley could be your jackpot. Tucked on the outskirts of Liverpool, this area gives you space to breathe, without the price tag that often comes with being closer to the city.

With average house prices climbing year on year, but still at a very affordable £185,000 as of June 2025, Knowsley offers first-time buyers an excellent entry point to the property market.

It’s not just about the price, though. The area is seeing increasing demand, with improved transport links and new developments popping up all over. This makes it a great place to invest now, with the potential for future growth.

Nuneaton, Warwickshire – modern homes in the heart of the Midlands

You might be thinking, where? But not for long. Nuneaton is an absolute gem for first-time buyers who want a first home without breaking the bank.

Located in the heart of the Midlands, this area is perfect for those who want a peaceful pace of life, while staying well-connected to larger cities like Birmingham and Leicester.

The real draw here, though, is the selection of stunning new build homes in Nuneaton. With excellent local amenities, a strong community feel, and the possibility of getting a bit more space for your budget, this market town is an excellent spot to consider.

Leek, Staffordshire – charm, nature and an attractive market town lifestyle

Set near the Peak District, this charming market town offers a slower, more relaxed lifestyle without losing out on modern conveniences.

There’s plenty of outdoor space for those weekend walks in the countryside. Plus, Leek has great local shops, pubs and restaurants, all contributing to its thriving, close-knit community.

If you’re looking to settle somewhere that combines rural charm with a vibrant market town atmosphere, Leek might be just the place for you.

September 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Looking to get the most out of your money? Wealth management is a strategic approach to financial management that helps you to achieve your long-term goals and build wealth for the future, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is vital that you develop a tailored approach based on your circumstances and financial goals. Read on to find out more.

Start with Clear Goals: What Do You Want Your Money to Do?

Before developing a wealth management plan, you first need to establish your goals. Before making any big financial decisions, ask yourself: What do I want my wealth to achieve? Whether it is securing your retirement, growing assets for the next generation, or leaving a charitable legacy, your strategy should be built around your personal priorities. Clear goals help you and your adviser design a plan that works for you.

Expect More from Modern Wealth Management

Wealth management today is not just about numbers on a statement. You should expect personalised advice based on your goals and circumstances, transparent reporting, digital tools for real-time insights, and a strong focus on sustainable (ESG) investing. Many wealth management firms now combine human expertise with smart technology, so you get the best of both worlds – tailored strategies and convenient access.

Understand What’s Happening in the UK Wealth Market

Knowledge is power when it comes to investing, and the financial landscape is changing. New tax rules in the UK are leading some wealthy families and individuals to move assets or even leave the UK altogether. At the same time, big names like Barclays are investing heavily to strengthen their wealth services, which could mean better options for you as a client. Knowing these trends can help you make smarter decisions about where and how to manage your money.

Make Your Money Work Harder: Diversify, Protect, & Plan Ahead

To get the most out of your wealth, think beyond traditional shares and property. Diversifying into alternative assets, using tax-efficient structures, and planning your estate now will give you more flexibility and help protect your family’s future. Younger investors are already demanding inflation-protected assets and more control over their portfolios, so this is something you may want to consider, too. During periods of economic uncertainty such as this, it is vital that you are smart and plan ahead when it comes to wealth management.

The advice in this post should help you get the most out of your money and build towards long-term wealth. It can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to wealth management, especially with a lot of doom and gloom surrounding the UK and global economy in 2025. By establishing your goals, getting expert wealth management advice, understanding the UK wealth market, and planning ahead, you can develop a financial plan that will help you achieve your goals.

September 29th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Buying your first home is one of life’s most significant milestones, but the excitement of owning your own space can be significantly reduced by paperwork and finances. If you’re eyeing new homes, by taking a step-by-step approach, you can make the experience less stressful.

Here are some practical steps you can take to be well on your way to unlocking the door to your new home with confidence.

1. Setting Your Budget and Financial Foundations

Before you even begin browsing new build homes, you need to assess your finances. Setting a clear budget will save you time and avoid heartache later. Start by calculating your income and outgoings. Be realistic about what you can afford for a deposit, as well as ongoing mortgage payments. A good rule of thumb is that your monthly housing costs should not exceed a third of your monthly income.

Next, look at your credit score. Lenders will assess your credit history when deciding on your mortgage application. If you have any outstanding debts, try to clear them before applying for a mortgage, as this can help secure better terms.

2. Tapping into Government Support

As a first-time buyer, you have access to a range of government schemes designed to ease the burden of the initial costs. For example, Shared Ownership is an option that allows you to buy a portion of the home and rent the rest, making it more affordable.

You should also keep an eye on the Lifetime ISA (LISA), which lets you save up to £4,000 per year, and the government adds a 25% bonus on top. This can go a long way toward helping you cover your deposit. Research these options carefully and consult a financial adviser to figure out which is best for your situation.

3. Finding Your Perfect New-Build Property

Once you’ve established your financial foundation, it’s time to start the exciting search for your ideal home. New build properties often offer a range of benefits, from modern, energy-efficient designs to a more hands-off experience when it comes to maintenance.

You may be able to personalise your new house with custom flooring or kitchen fittings, making it truly feel like home from day one. Take the time to understand what the builder offers in terms of warranties, upgrades, and finishes.

Pay attention to the location as well. Is the area growing? Are transport links good? Even a lovely house can lose its charm if the neighbourhood doesn’t suit your lifestyle.

4. Navigating the Legal and Mortgage Processes

Once you’ve chosen your property, you’ll need to secure a mortgage. You can work with a mortgage broker who will help you find the best deal based on your financial profile. They can also guide you through the necessary paperwork and get pre-approval for your mortgage.

You’ll also need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of the purchase. They will review contracts, ensure the property is legally sound, and make sure there are no surprises when it comes to ownership.

5. Settling into Your New-Build Community

When you finally get the keys to your new house, get to know your neighbours and join local groups or events to feel more connected.

Don’t forget to take care of your new house, too. Modern homes come with advanced technology and energy-saving features, but it’s still important to keep everything maintained. Regularly check your home’s systems, like heating and plumbing, and take advantage of any warranties the builder offers. By staying proactive, you can avoid any costly surprises in the future.

September 25th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Flexible checkout options are a modern boon for businesses willing to change with the times and upgrade their payment systems. No longer is cash king, as today, customers of all ages want a range of ways to pay, such as digital and credit cards. From increased conversions to competitive advantage, here’s how offering more than one way to pay will help your business. 

Lower Cart Abandonment

Cart abandonment is one of the biggest contributors to lost revenue. There are some methods of regaining a customer, such as reminder emails, but they aren’t reliable. It is better to reduce the likelihood of a cart being abandoned in the first place. Offering multiple ways to pay is a guarantee of increased sales, which is why most businesses learn how to accept credit card payments in various ways, including via digital wallets through online store purchases.

Flexible Checkout Options Increase Conversions

A study by Stripe found that conversion rates increase by as much as 2x on average when a business offers additional ways to pay, such as Apple Pay. But why would you consider this?:

• You can turn browsers into buyers by providing multiple payment methods.
• Purchase hesitation is reduced when your business caters to different preferences.
• The result is higher conversion rates that equate to increased overall revenue.

You Reach a Wider Audience

Casting a broader net that appeals to a larger demographic increases the potential for more sales. While it’s wise to focus on the core audience for online marketing, it also helps to consider a wider demographic, too. Of course, not all customers in one age range or group will use the exact same payment method either. Today, people of all ages, social groups and ethnicities use a wide variety of payment methods, so why exclude what could be a boost?

Flexible Checkout Options Encourage Spending

According to Deloitte, UK retail losses are up by 33% since COVID, with 2023 seeing a loss of £7.9 billion. Adding flexible checkout options increases the appeal of a store as it widens the demographics that can confidently use it, but that depends on the methods preferred by each.

• Gen-Z and younger people prefer to use digital payment methods such as Apple Pay.
• Millennials are much more likely to use contactless cards when making purchases.
• The over-55s have been shown to prefer chip and pin cards and cash when buying.

Getting customers to part with their money is harder than ever for various reasons, including the cost of living. However, most accept that inflation happens, even when cautious. As a business, it is almost a responsibility to make the payment process as easy as possible for customers.

Establishing Trust and Credibility

Because of issues such as fraud, cybercrime and unethical business practices, customer trust is pretty low these days. It seems like every week, another major business has been hacked and data stolen. So why would consumers trust companies? However, offering more than one way to pay provides a sense of security to customers. Those who don’t trust credit cards believe digital wallets are more secure, and vice versa, so you can gain credibility by appealing to all. 

Flexible Checkout Options Offer an Advantage

Surveys by Forbes have revealed that 96% of customers will switch after a bad experience. That puts you at a competitive advantage if you offer more ways for customers to pay:

• Customers love convenience and flexibility, especially if it reduces payment friction.
• Offering multiple payment options can improve the public perception of a brand.
• A higher level of service results in repeat business and a higher level of loyalty.

Higher Sales Potential

No one likes to feel like they are alienated, but that’s how customers can feel when their preferred payment option isn’t available. This is especially true of the already disenfranchised younger generations. But of course, any customer will feel more obliged and happy to make a purchase when it is just easier for them to do so. Offering flexible options like digital wallets, credit cards, and even crypto will help consumers make a decision when they want to buy.

Summary

Lower cart abandonment is an attractive result of offering flexible checkout options for an online or even offline business. Of course, spending is encouraged when there are multiple ways for a shopper to pay, especially when it covers various demographics. The feeling of inclusion by making sure customers can pay easily in the manner they prefer has many other benefits. This includes a much higher sales potential because customers are less likely to feel alienated.

September 25th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

With the Autumn Budget fast approaching, attention is turning to how the Chancellor will respond to ongoing economic pressures and growing calls for financial support. For many households, the past year has been marked by persistent cost-of-living challenges, fluctuating inflation, and uncertainty around interest rates.

Against this backdrop, there is heightened anticipation around the policies and priorities that will shape this year’s Budget.

Christie Cook, Managing Director of Retail at Hodge Bank, believes the Autumn statement will be pivotal in setting the tone for both immediate household support and longer-term financial resilience, sharing five key themes she expects to see at the forefront of this year’s announcement.

• A Continued Focus on Inflation and the Cost of Living

“Inflation may be easing, but its effects on household budgets are still very real. We are expecting that the budget will continue to place a spotlight on cost-of-living support, particularly for lower- and middle-income households. The challenge for policymakers is finding measures that balance short-term relief with long-term economic stability.”

• Incentives to Save and Build Financial Resilience

“Encouraging people to save has been an ongoing theme for successive governments, and it wouldn’t be surprising if we see new initiatives to boost household savings rates. The ongoing commentary from the Chancellor has been the possibility of limiting Cash ISA allowances, therefore there is a likelihood that the Autumn Budget will encourage individuals to utilise Stocks and Shares accounts.

“Whether through tweaks to ISAs, or broader savings schemes, there’s growing recognition that helping people to prepare for financial shocks is vital in today’s uncertain climate.”

• Housing and Homeownership Under the Microscope

“Housing has rarely been far from the political agenda, and the upcoming Autumn Budget will be no exception, it’s an area that may receive significant attention.

“From support for first-time buyers to reforms in stamp duty, I’d expect the Budget to address accessibility and affordability in the housing market, which continues to be a pressing concern for many.”

• Tax Adjustments on the Horizon

“Taxation will always be a focal point in any Budget. While sweeping tax reforms are unlikely, we may see adjustments aimed at easing pressure on working households or stimulating business investment. Even small changes can have ripple effects on people’s disposable income and savings behaviour.”

• Long-Term Financial Planning in Focus

“Beyond immediate cost-of-living pressures, the government will likely want to highlight long-term financial resilience. That could mean revisiting pension policies or reinforcing the importance of saving for retirement.

“With an ageing population and younger generations struggling to build wealth, it’s an area that demands forward-thinking solutions.”

September 25th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

September 23rd, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

More than half of UK adults could be leaving their loved ones unprotected because they do not realise that, in England and Wales, getting married automatically revokes any existing Will, according to new research from Will Aid.

A nationwide survey of more than 2,000 people, carried out by the annual charity Will-writing campaign, found that 56% of respondents were unaware of this rule. Without making a new Will after marriage, their estate could instead be distributed under the Rules of Intestacy – which may not reflect their wishes.

The law, which dates back to the Wills Act 1837, is currently under review by the Law Commission. In May, the Commission published a draft bill proposing reforms that would prevent an existing Will from being automatically revoked on marriage. These changes are designed to help protect vulnerable or elderly people from so-called “predatory marriages”, where an individual marries with the intention of inheriting.

But until any legal reforms are enacted, Will Aid is warning that anyone who marries or remarries in England and Wales must make a new Will if they want their estate to pass according to their wishes.

Chris Adiole, Director at Penerley Solicitors, said: “I often come across people who assume their existing Will continues to stand after they get married, and they’re genuinely surprised to learn that the law cancels it automatically. That can cause real problems for families, leaving everything up in the air at the worst possible time.

“It’s always worth reviewing your Will after big life changes like marriage, divorce or having children. It gives you peace of mind and makes sure your wishes are carried out properly.”

Peter de Vena Franks, Campaign Director for Will Aid, said: “It is shocking that so many people are unaware that marriage or remarriage cancels an existing Will. This could mean children from a previous relationship are unintentionally disinherited, or that estates are distributed in a way the deceased never intended.

“Making a Will is the only way to make sure your wishes are respected. And if you are getting married, you should make a new Will either in contemplation of that marriage or as soon as possible afterwards.”

Will Aid is encouraging people to use its upcoming campaign month in November to write or update their Wills with a participating solicitor, while also supporting UK charities including Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, SCIAF (Scotland), Trócaire (Northern Ireland) and – new for this year, Shelter and Crisis.

Will Aid is a nationwide campaign that takes place every November and sees participating solicitors across the UK volunteer their time to write basic Wills, waiving their usual fee in exchange for a voluntary donation.

Suggested donations are £120 for a single Will and £200 for a pair of mirror Wills – with all donations supporting the vital work of eight leading UK charities.

Appointments are available now and can be made with a participating firm either in person or remotely.

For more information, visit www.willaid.org.uk.