Speaking after the event, Bilal Korkut, senior executive at Great British Doner, said that the idea of vegan doner was once considered impossible by many.

"If someone had shown me this photo a few years ago, I probably wouldn't have believed it," Korkut said. "When I first came up with the idea of serving vegan doner on a traditional kebab spit, many people said, 'It will never work,' 'Who would eat that?' or 'You're wasting your time.' To many, the idea simply sounded crazy."
Korkut said the same idea has now become something that brings people together.

Bilal Korkut, senior executive at Great British Doner

"Today, together with PETA UK, we celebrated World Kebab Day by giving away hundreds of free vegan kebabs. An idea that once seemed impossible has become something that unites people," he said.
Emphasising that Great British Doner has never been afraid to challenge convention, Korkut added: "We're still only at the beginning of our journey, but days like today remind me that we're heading in the right direction. I'd like to thank PETA UK, my incredible team who believed in this vision, and everyone who joined us to support the event."

The celebration took place at Barton Arcade in central Manchester and attracted strong public interest, with hundreds of visitors attending to mark World Kebab Day while sampling the company's plant-based vegan doner.

Great British Doner Locations

MANCHESTER PICCADILLY 01613992713 87 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2DA

MANCHESTER DEANSGATE -0161 566 2481 - 61 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2BW

LIVERPOOL BOLD STREET - 01512720357 - 28 Bold St, Liverpool L1 4DS

LIVERPOOL EXPRESS- Wood Street, Liverpool L1 4DS

MANCHESTER OLDHAM - Elk Mill Retail Park, Oldham OL2 5HX.

Mohammad Arshad Ali, CEO of Cheshire Homes Group met Northern Cyprus Turkish Cyprus PM Unal Ustel in Manchester

“We have launched a new scheme in Stockport,” Mohammad Arshad Ali, CEO of Cheshire Homes Group, said in an exclusive interview. “The proposal is to demolish the existing office and deliver a high-quality residential building that responds to the town’s housing need while respecting its urban fabric.”

Vitality signed a 10-year lease on 45,000 sq ft at Stockport Exchange in 2025, clearing the path for its departure from St Christopher’s House, according to property records.

Design and Planning

Ollier Smurthwaite Architects has been appointed to design the scheme. The red-brick proposal includes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments arranged around a central courtyard. A landmark corner block at the junction will step down in height to align with adjacent terraced properties.

“We are developing proposals for a modern mansion block with taller ceilings, more windows, better communal areas and private gardens,” said Matt Ollier, co-founder of Ollier Smurthwaite. “We’ve been researching Albert Hall Mansions and Richard Norman Shaw, who was credited with making flats desirable to the aspiring Victorian middle classes.”

Paul Butler Associates is advising on planning matters.

Rising mortgage costs are making home ownership increasingly difficult, while the retirement income gap continues to widen. Here is the ADPL July Report.

Rising Mortgage Costs Make Home Ownership More Difficult
Rising interest rates are making it increasingly difficult for people to buy a home in the United Kingdom. According to data published by UK Finance, first-time buyers and those taking out new mortgages are now spending an average of 21.3% of their gross household income on mortgage repayments. This is the highest level recorded since the 2008 global financial crisis.

The burden is particularly severe in East Anglia and several areas surrounding London, where high property prices continue to push affordability lower. North Norfolk, Hillingdon, Luton, Slough and Spelthorne are among the areas where mortgage repayments account for the highest proportion of household income.
Experts say that high borrowing costs and ongoing economic uncertainty are prompting many prospective buyers to postpone purchasing decisions, reduce their budgets or withdraw from the housing market altogether.

Businesses Prefer Temporary Workers Instead of Permanent Staff

Businesses across the UK are increasingly turning to temporary workers rather than permanent employees due to economic uncertainty and rising costs.

According to the latest report from recruitment firms, permanent staff appointments recorded their sharpest decline in ten months during May. While employers are becoming increasingly cautious about long-term recruitment decisions, the number of people seeking work continues to rise.
The retail sector experienced the steepest fall in demand for permanent staff, while healthcare, nursing and care services remained the only sectors reporting increased demand for permanent employees.

Retirement Income Gap Continues to Widen

A new report published by Pensions UK reveals that a large proportion of workers are not saving enough to maintain their current standard of living during retirement.
According to the report, a moderate retirement lifestyle now requires an annual income of approximately £32,700 for a single person and £45,400 for a couple. However, only 23% of working-age people are currently on track to achieve this level.

For those aiming for a more comfortable retirement, the required income is significantly higher, while only 9% of workers are expected to reach that target.

Guaranteed Working Hours Planned for Low-Hours Employees

The UK Government has introduced new proposals aimed at providing greater income security for workers employed on zero-hours and low-hours contracts.
Under the proposed reforms, employees who consistently work more hours than those stated in their contracts could be entitled to request a new contract reflecting their actual working hours after a 12-week assessment period.

The Government is also considering extending the reforms to employees working between eight and twenty hours per week. While the measures could place additional obligations on employers, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors, business organisations warn that they may reduce the flexibility of current working arrangements.

Economists say these developments demonstrate that interest rate policy, labour market conditions and the UK's social security system will remain key issues to watch in the months ahead.

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The event was jointly organized by the Uzbekistan-Turkey Businesspeople's Association (UTID) and the Uzbekistan Women's Association under the theme "Uzbekistan's Experience in Cooperation Between Public Institutions and NGOs in Developing Women's Entrepreneurship."

Participants attended from various regions of Uzbekistan as well as Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to discuss policies and practical approaches aimed at strengthening women's participation in business and entrepreneurship.

Among the Turkish delegation were Betül Sezgin of the Izmir Businesswomen's Association, veteran public relations specialist Fügen Toksü, Northern Cyprus businesswoman and civil society leader Gülnür Sadıkoğlu, and Turkish entrepreneur Esra Hasnalçacı, who transformed a small textile workshop inherited from her father at the age of 24 into an export-oriented manufacturing company serving 35 countries.

The symposium examined barriers facing women entrepreneurs, policy recommendations to improve the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and successful models of cooperation between government institutions and non-governmental organizations.

Speaking at the event, UTID Chairman Davut Azmi Erbaş welcomed the symposium's growing international profile.

"We are pleased that the symposium has evolved into an international platform for sharing experience with experts and speakers from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan," Erbaş said.

Participants also exchanged views on projects designed to strengthen women's role in economic and commercial life, accelerate their integration into the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and enhance cooperation between the public and private sectors.

On the sidelines of the symposium, Erbaş and members of the Turkish delegation paid a courtesy visit to Turkey's Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Ufuk Ulutaş.

Discussions also covered the current state of women's entrepreneurship globally and across the Turkic world, legal reforms and incentive mechanisms to increase women's participation in business, strategies for transforming innovative ideas into sustainable enterprises, and initiatives to strengthen trade and professional networks among women entrepreneurs.

Organizers said the symposium aims to deepen cooperation among women entrepreneurs across the Turkic world and encourage the development of joint cross-border business initiatives.

Growing steadily from the Midlands, Great British Doner has now expanded to five branches. Offering a unique take on the traditional doner kebab with an innovative concept, Great British Doner continues to strengthen its presence in the UK market.

Fifth Branch Opens in Manchester Oldham

Great British Doner (GBD), the award-winning döner chain in England, has officially opened its fifth branch in Manchester Oldham.

The grand opening of the new branch, located at Elk Mill Retail Park, Oldham OL2 5HX, took place on Saturday, 20 June 2026, at 2:00 pm, attracting a large number of guests and supporters.

MPs and Local Councillors Attend

The event was hosted by GBD founder Mehmet Nezir Korkut and senior executive Bilal Korkut. Distinguished guests attending the opening included:

• Afzal Khan MP (former Shadow Minister)
• Jasmine Kureshi MP for Bolton
• Cllr Josh Charters, Oldham Council
• Ömer Akyüz, owner of Dünya Holding / Dünya Döner Kebab (Poland)
• Vatan Öz, Editor of Europe Media Group (London)
• Yıldıray Dönmez, owner of Anatolian Foods (London)
• Renowned chef Kemal Coşkuncay, owner of Casarima Restaurant (Liverpool)
• Businessman Ziya Emir (Manchester)
• Hamit Özçelik, husband of renowned fashion designer Zeynep Kartal

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were treated to GBD’s signature dishes. The new Oldham branch will serve customers seven days a week at Elk Mill Retail Park.

Mehmet Nezir Korkut: “We Continue to Grow”

Thanking everyone who attended and the people of Oldham for their support, Mehmet Nezir Korkut said:

“We are continuing to grow with our fifth branch. I wish the new Oldham location every success. I have been planning to establish a franchise operation for many years, and today you have all contributed to making that vision a reality.”

Bilal Korkut: “We Have Started Franchising”

Bilal Korkut highlighted the company's ambitions, saying:

“Great British Doner deserves to be taken to the next level. We are passionate about raising standards across the industry and demonstrating what a high-quality döner experience should look like. We are excited to become part of the Oldham community and celebrate our opening by giving back.”

Chocolate Döner Surprise

In addition to its meat and vegan options, Great British Doner also offers a unique dessert: a frozen chocolate döner featuring rich chocolate shavings served over a warm crepe.

No Doner Without Ayran

Customers can also enjoy unlimited soft drink options, including traditional Turkish ayran and şalgam juice, alongside their meals. A dedicated children's menu is available, featuring mini döner wraps, burgers, nuggets, fries, and fruit juice.

Branch Locations

Manchester Piccadilly

87 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2DA
Tel: 0161 399 2713

Manchester Deansgate

61 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2BW
Tel: 0161 566 2481

Liverpool – Bold Street

28 Bold Street, Liverpool L1 4DS
Tel: 0151 272 0357

Liverpool Express

Wood Street, Liverpool L1 4DS

Manchester Oldham

Elk Mill Retail Park, Oldham OL2 5HX

Scheme will deliver protected cycle lanes, new pedestrian crossings and continuous bus lanes to improve safety and journey times

Customers advised to plan ahead as journeys are expected to take longer during this phase of works

Work on the next phase of improvements on the A23 Streatham Hill will begin at the end of the month, with temporary traffic restrictions in place while the scheme is delivered.

From Monday 29 June, phase four of the project will see the construction of new central islands as part of a wider transformation of the road. These will provide safer waiting areas for pedestrians crossing the road and help separate traffic flows. The improvements will include protected cycle lanes, new pedestrian crossings and continuous bus lanes, designed to reduce road danger and make it safer and easier for people to walk, cycle and use public transport.

Overnight closures will be in place between 22:00 on Sunday 28 June and 05:00 on Tuesday 30 June, between Christchurch Road and Sternhold Avenue. This will take place across two separate overnight closures: from 22:00 on Sunday 28 June to 05:00 on Monday 29 June, and from 22:00 on Monday 29 June to 05:00 on Tuesday 30 June. The first closure will affect the southern section of the scheme (Sternhold Avenue to Telford Avenue), while the second closure will cover the northern section (Telford Avenue to Christchurch Road). These closures are taking place during the summer period when traffic levels are normally lower, and they’ve been scheduled to avoid other major roadworks where possible. The plan aims to minimise disruption to users as much as possible.

From 05:00 on Monday 29 June until August 2026, traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction. Daytime works for this phase are expected to complete by 9 August, followed by a period of overnight resurfacing works later in August. People travelling in the area are being advised to plan ahead and allow more time for their journeys. There will also be temporary changes including bus stop relocations, side road closures, pedestrian diversions and parking suspensions. TfL is encouraging people to walk, cycle or use public transport during this time and for drivers to consider alternative routes.

Enfield Council has accelerated the installation of 1,000 new electric vehicle charge points across the borough as part of its commitment to sustainable transport.

The project will be delivered by charge point operator Char.gy, with chargers installed directly into streetlight columns. The new charge points will be low-cost and designed for long-stay and overnight charging close to home. This will particularly benefit residents who do not have access to at-home charging, helping to remove one of the biggest barriers to EV ownership.

Councillor Maria Alexandrou, Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “One of my priorities is to speed up opportunities for electric vehicles charging in Enfield and finally, we have a significant offer for drivers. We know that access to convenient, affordable charging is key to helping residents make the switch to electric vehicles. By expanding our on-street charging network, we’re making EV ownership a realistic option for far more people. This is a major step forward in our ambition to support a more sustainable transport system in Enfield.”

In addition, new standalone EV chargers will be installed at five sites in the borough, replacing older equipment. Residents can suggest where they would like to see lamppost chargers by filling in the request form on the Let’s Talk Electric Vehicle Charging Page.

This initiative forms part of Enfield Council’s wider programme which aims to ensure that every resident has shared access to an EV charger within a five-minute walk of their home.

Further information can be found on the EV Charging page on the Council's website.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said it is examining whether Ryanair's seating policy, which can require families to pay an additional fee to guarantee seats together, could be considered unfair. The review focuses on children aged between two and 11, who under the airline's rules must be seated with an accompanying adult.

Regulators are also assessing whether the charge could amount to "drip pricing" — a practice where consumers are initially shown a lower price and only discover mandatory or unavoidable extra costs later in the booking process. UK law requires businesses to display the full unavoidable cost upfront to allow customers to make informed comparisons.

According to the CMA, Ryanair appears to be the only major airline operating in the UK that imposes this type of charge on families. The authority noted that the fee is not applied in every case, and some parents are able to sit with their children without paying extra.

Ryanair has strongly criticised the investigation, describing it as unfounded. The airline insists its family seating policy complies with all applicable laws and regulations and argues that it helps reduce travel costs for families.

A spokesperson said that while passengers who choose specific seats generally pay a reservation fee, adults travelling with children can select seats next to up to four children on the same booking without charge under the airline's family seating arrangements.

The CMA stressed that the inquiry remains in its early stages and that no conclusions have been reached. Depending on the outcome, the regulator could decide to take enforcement action, require changes to Ryanair's practices, or close the investigation if no breaches are found.

The report found that the income needed for a moderate retirement has increased over the past year, largely due to higher spending on food and social activities. While the rise broadly reflects inflation, housing costs are not included in the calculations.

Pensions UK said the retirement income standards should be used as a guide, noting that individuals may need to adjust the figures to reflect their own circumstances, particularly if housing expenses remain a significant cost in later life.

The trade body urged workers, employers and the government to do more to encourage retirement saving and increase pension contributions.

Pension providers issue annual statements estimating how much income savers can expect from their pension pots in retirement. However, concerns remain that many people are not putting aside enough money for later life.

Last year, the government revived the Turner Pension Commission, whose 2006 recommendations led to the introduction of automatic pension enrolment. Ministers and the commission's interim findings warned that future retirees could be around £800 a year, or 8%, worse off than current pensioners.

The report also highlighted a persistent gender pension gap. According to tax authority data, women have roughly half the pension savings of men. Research from investment platform AJ Bell found that women begin falling behind men in retirement saving from the age of 28.

During the company's annual developer conference, Microsoft executive Steven Bathiche showcased a pair of prototype devices aimed at enhancing productivity through AI.

Two Innovative Device Concepts

The first concept is a compact desktop cube featuring a touchscreen and voice controls, allowing users to interact with AI directly from their desks.

The second concept is a wearable access badge that can be attached to a lanyard or belt loop. The badge provides quick access to AI-powered workplace tools and services while employees are on the move.

Bathiche described the wearable as lightweight and specifically designed for seamless interactions with AI agents throughout the workday.

Microsoft Explores a New Device Category

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella described these devices as representing a "new form factor" for computing technology.

Although Microsoft has not announced plans to commercialize either product, the company said current testing programs will help determine how such devices could be developed in the future.

At present, several hundred Microsoft employees are using the prototypes as part of internal pilot programs.

Learning from Past Wearable Technology Efforts

This is not Microsoft's first attempt to enter the wearable technology market.

The company previously developed the Microsoft HoloLens, an augmented reality headset comparable to the Meta Quest and Apple Vision Pro.

Despite securing a multi-billion-dollar contract with the U.S. Army, HoloLens faced years of technical challenges and testing issues. In 2024, Microsoft announced it would discontinue production of the headset after nearly a decade of development.

Project Solara Demonstrates AI Agents in Action

The wearable badge and desktop device are part of an initiative called Project Solara.

In demonstration videos, office workers were shown using the devices to monitor and interact with AI agents—software assistants capable of performing tasks independently.

These AI agents are increasingly common in technology workplaces, helping employees with activities such as software development, content creation, and workflow management.

Devices Designed to Work Alongside PCs

Rather than replacing computers, the wearable badge and desktop cube are intended to complement existing Microsoft software and PCs.

The devices enable users to access and manage AI agents without needing to sit directly in front of a laptop or desktop computer, creating a more flexible work experience.

Wearable Badge Includes Camera and Security Features

The wearable badge contains a built-in camera and biometric security features.

During a live demonstration, Bathiche unlocked the device using his fingerprint and instructed it to photograph the conference audience. The badge successfully captured images and sent them to him for review.

According to Bathiche, the camera allows AI agents to better understand their surroundings and assist users more effectively by responding to real-world contexts.

Privacy Questions Remain

The inclusion of cameras on AI-powered wearable devices is likely to raise privacy concerns.

Similar products, such as AI-enabled smart glasses from Meta, have faced scrutiny over how images and videos are captured, stored, and used.

As Microsoft continues testing its wearable badge, questions surrounding privacy, data collection, and transparency are expected to remain important considerations before any potential public release.

AI Growth Continues to Reshape Workplaces

The rise of AI assistants and autonomous agents is increasingly influencing how companies operate.

Many technology executives have pointed to advances in AI-driven productivity as a factor behind recent workforce reductions across the industry, with AI systems taking on a growing share of routine tasks.

Microsoft's latest wearable concepts highlight the company's vision of making AI more accessible and integrated into everyday work environments.

Prof. Dr. Juan Lafont, CFA

The lecture was delivered by Juan Lafont, who is known for his academic and professional work in project finance. The session covered project finance structures, risk assessment frameworks and international funding models, according to participants.

The company said Ceylan’s participation forms part of its broader strategy to strengthen engagement with international academic and professional networks and to support knowledge sharing across the financial sector.

Strategy Finance Global, a London-based master broker, operates across shipping, private aviation, superyacht and project finance, providing advisory and structuring services for large-scale transactions.

Alp Ceylan, Managing Director of London-based brokerage Strategy Finance Global, attended a Project Finance lecture

LONDON (Berkeley Square Office) E-posta: info@strategyfinance.global Tel: +44 (0) 203 761 4111

2nd Floor, Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London, W1J 6BD

LONDON (Head office) 173 Balls Pond Road, London, N1 4BG 02037617614111 - 07812921155 - 07766461245 info@strategyfinance.com

Turkey’s Strategic Positioning: From Medical Tourism to Market Power

Turkey is rapidly evolving from a cost-driven medical tourism destination into a global command center for aesthetic medicine and longevity services.

The scale is no longer marginal:

• Over 1.5 million international patients annually

• More than $2 billion in sector revenue

• Consistently high global rankings in aesthetic procedures (ISAPS)

• Rapid inflow of patients from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond

But the real shift is not volume—it is market positioning.

Turkey is no longer competing for patients. It is competing for category ownership.

How Turkey is Quietly Cornering the Market

The country’s rise is not accidental. It is structural—and built on four compounding advantages:

1. The cost-quality arbitrage no longer exists as a “discount story”

Turkey has broken the old narrative of “cheap alternative healthcare.” Instead, it now offers high-skill, high-volume clinical performance at structurally lower cost bases—a combination few markets can replicate.

2. Industrial-scale medical expertise

High patient throughput has created something rare in Europe: procedural intensity at scale, accelerating surgical specialization and operational precision across leading institutions.

3. Geographic convergence advantage

Istanbul sits at the intersection of three major regions—Europe, the Middle East, and Asia—functioning as a natural funnel for cross-border medical demand.

4. The emergence of “health + hospitality + longevity” hybrids

Turkey is no longer selling procedures. It is selling end-to-end health experiences—where surgery, recovery, hospitality, and wellness are fused into a single commercial ecosystem.

This is where the model begins to resemble a new category entirely: luxury longevity infrastructure.

Why This Sector Doesn’t Behave Like a Normal Market

Unlike traditional luxury goods or discretionary travel, health and aesthetic spending is increasingly treated as non-deferrable self-investment.

Even under economic pressure, consumers continue to prioritize:

• physical appearance

• perceived social value

• long-term wellness outcomes

• preventive aging strategies

In other words: this is a sector where demand does not collapse with sentiment cycles—it reallocates.

Case Study: Esteworld and the Institutionalization of Experience-Based Medicine

Within Turkey’s expanding ecosystem, Esteworld Health Group represents a defining example of the sector’s evolution.

Beyond clinical performance, the group is actively building a full-spectrum patient experience model, integrating medical treatment with recovery environments and lifestyle design.

Its emerging Wellworld concept signals a further shift: from aesthetic medicine toward structured longevity ecosystems, where healthcare becomes continuous rather than episodic.

The Bigger Picture: A Silent Redistribution of a Global Market

What is unfolding is not simply Turkey’s growth in medical tourism. It is something more strategic:

A gradual redistribution of global health and longevity demand toward new geographic hubs that can combine clinical capability, cost efficiency, and lifestyle integration.

Turkey is not just participating in this shift. It is actively shaping it.

It is positioning itself to capture a disproportionate share of one of the fastest-growing segments of global healthcare.

Market Context & Data Sources

The global expansion of the health, aesthetic medicine, and longevity sector is supported by several leading institutional datasets and industry reports.

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness economy reached approximately $5.6 trillion in 2023, highlighting the scale and continued expansion of the sector.

Research from McKinsey & Company indicates a structural shift in consumer behavior, where wellness and personal care expenditures are increasingly prioritized and reframed as “self-investment” rather than discretionary spending.

On the medical tourism side, data from the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism and USHAŞ (International Health Services Inc.) shows that Turkey receives over 1.5 million international patients annually, with total sector revenue exceeding $2 billion.

In addition, findings from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) consistently place Turkey among the leading global destinations for aesthetic procedures, reflecting both high procedural volume and accumulated clinical expertise.

ESTEWORLD HEALTH GROUP – FACT SHEET (Editorial Brief)

Founded: 1994
Sector: Aesthetic Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Medical Tourism, Longevity & Wellness

Overview

Esteworld Health Group is one of Turkey’s established private healthcare organizations, operating since 1994 and playing a long-standing role in the development of the country’s international medical tourism ecosystem.

The group represents a hybrid model of clinical medicine and experience-based healthcare delivery, integrating surgical care with patient journey design, recovery services, and cross-border medical tourism operations.

Scale & Operations

• 5 hospitals (including one upcoming facility)

• 1,200 employees

• 70 physicians and medical specialists

As of 2024, Esteworld serves approximately:

• 28,000 – 30,000 patients annually

Total annual service volume exceeds approximately:

• £24 – 26 million GBP (approx.)

This reflects combined demand from both domestic and international patient segments.

International Reach

Esteworld has developed a diversified international patient base across 35 countries, with a strong concentration in:

• Europe (core market)

• United Kingdom (strategic priority market)

• United States

• Canada

• Australia

• Selected Asian markets

Key European source markets include:

• Netherlands

• France

• Germany

• Italy

The UK remains one of the group’s most consistent and strategically important inbound markets.

Position in Medical Tourism Ecosystem

Esteworld operates within one of the fastest-growing segments of global healthcare: cross-border aesthetic medicine and medical tourism.

The group is positioned within a broader structural shift where healthcare is increasingly defined not only by clinical outcomes, but also by:

• patient experience

• end-to-end service design

• hospitality integration

• recovery and lifestyle components

Strategic Relevance

Esteworld is part of a new generation of healthcare providers contributing to Turkey’s emergence as a global hub in aesthetic medicine and longevity-focused healthcare services.

The organization’s scale, patient diversity, and long operational history position it as a relevant case study in the evolution of:

healthcare → experience-based medicine → longevity ecosystems

Note on Market Context

Turkey’s healthcare and aesthetic medicine sector continues to benefit from structural global trends, including rising demand for self-funded medical travel, increasing prioritization of wellness-related spending, and the convergence of healthcare with luxury hospitality models.Within this context, Esteworld represents a mature institutional player in a rapidly expanding global category.

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Benchmark Brent crude briefly surged nearly 7% to over $126 per barrel before retreating later in the day. The spike comes as tensions in the Iran conflict intensify and negotiations appear to have stalled.

A key factor behind the surge is the continued disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas flows. Ongoing threats and blockades in the area have raised concerns about global energy supply.

According to reports, the US Central Command has prepared options involving targeted strikes on Iran, as well as potential efforts to regain control of parts of the waterway to resume shipping. Iran, meanwhile, has signaled it will defend the route and respond to any escalation.

Oil price volatility was also influenced by technical factors, including the expiration of June futures contracts, which contributed to a later drop in prices. More active July contracts traded lower, around $110 per barrel.

Rising crude prices are already affecting consumers. In the UK, petrol and diesel costs have increased significantly compared to pre-conflict levels, putting pressure on households and businesses.

Experts warn the impact could extend beyond fuel. Higher energy costs are expected to drive up prices for food, flights and goods, as supply chains absorb the increased expenses. Fertiliser prices have also risen, adding further pressure on global food production.

Analysts say continued escalation could keep oil prices elevated into next year, increasing uncertainty for both markets and policymakers.

But it suffered in the face of competition from cheaper, online brands such as Shein and Temu.

Changing consumer tastes also spelled the death knell for the retailer, which has struggled like many High Street firms.

Kroll said: "As of 27 April, all Claire's standalone stores in UK and Ireland have ceased trading. All store employees have been advised of redundancy."

Claire's owners Modella Capital said in January that part of the reason it had to put Claire's into administration was "alarming" low Christmas trading that left it in a "vulnerable" position.
It also blamed the climate on the High Street, which it said "remains extremely challenging", adding that government policy had caused a tough trading environment by raising staffing costs such as National Insurance Contributions.

'Juvenile'​​​​​​​

But Claire's problems are more long-term, fashion expert Priya Raj told the BBC.
"We've moved away from novelty, colourful jewellery for the most part, which is what Claire's are best known for.
"If we think about teens today, they're looking at social media for influence on what to buy, rather than their local High Street or shopping centre.
"So naturally their tastes are evolving into what's mainstream right now - minimal jewellery, sometimes chunky, sometimes with a more curated look - basically not the cutesy, juvenile look that Claire's is known for."

Claire's was not only facing competition from online - other bricks-and-mortar competitors ate into its space too.

Primark and Superdrug compete heavily with Claire's value offering, says retail analyst Catherine Shuttleworth.

Plus, she added, young people had more places to spend their money, including spending on desserts, coffee, matcha and bubble tea.

"Competition has never been tougher for Gen Alpha shoppers," she said. "They are the generation of social shoppers - changing the way they buy and expecting more from the brands that they interact with.

"This age group now have so many options to spend their cash that shops just selling 'stuff' simply doesn't cut it."

Meanwhile, Claire's US arm is also struggling. It filed for bankruptcy for the second time in 2025, having previously filed for bankruptcy in 2018.

Move toward wellness and longevity positioning

Under the “Wellworld” initiative, Esteworld is seeking to align its services with growing global demand for wellness-oriented healthcare and longevity-focused lifestyle solutions. The approach reflects a broader industry trend in which aesthetic medicine providers are expanding into adjacent segments such as preventive health, recovery optimization and long-term wellbeing.

The group continues to operate within hair transplantation, dental aesthetics and plastic surgery, but is increasingly framing these services within a wider wellness ecosystem rather than standalone procedures.

Shift in healthcare consumption

Industry observers note that demand for aesthetic and elective healthcare services is increasingly linked to lifestyle, self-perception and long-term wellness goals, rather than purely cosmetic outcomes.

In this context, providers are moving toward more integrated models that combine medical expertise with hospitality, recovery environments and wellness-oriented experiences.

Strategic positioning

Esteworld’s expansion into wellness and longevity reflects a broader repositioning within Turkey’s private healthcare sector, where providers are increasingly competing not only on clinical capability, but also on patient experience and end-to-end service design.

The company’s strategy signals an attempt to bridge aesthetic medicine with the growing global longevity and wellness economy, where health, appearance and lifestyle are becoming increasingly interconnected.

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Email: hello@esteworld.com
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ACI Europe’s director general, Olivier Jankovec, warned that a disruption in fuel supply would significantly impact airport operations and air connectivity, potentially causing severe economic consequences across Europe. He added that if the Strait of Hormuz does not reopen in a stable manner within three weeks, a widespread jet fuel shortage in the EU could become unavoidable.

Airlines have already begun reducing flight schedules and increasing ticket prices due to fuel supply worries. European jet fuel prices recently reached a record high of $1,838 per tonne, nearly double the level seen before the war began.

Jankovec called on the European Union to take immediate action, arguing that market forces alone would not be sufficient to manage the crisis. He also criticized the lack of coordinated EU monitoring of jet fuel supply and production.

ACI Europe has proposed joint EU fuel purchasing and temporary easing of certain import restrictions. The group also highlighted the need to support the production and affordability of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), noting that conventional jet fuel prices are expected to stay high in the long term.

According to the letter dated April 9 and reported by the Financial Times, airports handling fewer than one million passengers annually are already under financial strain, even before considering fuel shortages. Jankovec warned that the situation could further weaken regional airports and negatively affect local communities across Europe.

Attended by Daniel Zeichner MP, the United Kingdom’s Trade Envoy to Türkiye, the forum—held at the Residence of the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in the United Kingdom under the auspices of Ambassador Koray Ertaş—brought together business leaders, economists, and policymakers on a single platform. In addition to bilateral trade and investment relations, the transformative impact of AI-driven competition on the global economy was comprehensively addressed.

The forum began with opening remarks by Ambassador Koray Ertaş. In his speech, he emphasized the strategic importance of economic relations between Türkiye and the United Kingdom, stating: “The strong economic partnership between Türkiye and the United Kingdom will continue to deepen further in areas such as digitalization, green transformation, and innovation, creating new opportunities.”

The program continued with remarks by BCCT Chair Chris Gaunt, OBE, and Saif Malik, CEO of Standard Chartered UK.

In his speech, BCCT Chair Chris Gaunt, OBE, underlined the growing strength of the strategic partnership between Türkiye and the United Kingdom, stating:
“Türkiye and the United Kingdom are not only strong partners in terms of trade volume, but also complementary economies in innovation, technology, and sustainable growth. In the coming period, we believe that investments particularly focused on digital transformation, green finance, and artificial intelligence will further advance this cooperation. As BCCT, we will continue to contribute to strategic partnerships that create lasting value between the two countries.”

During the panels held as part of the event, trade, investment, and technology cooperation between the two countries were evaluated from multiple dimensions.

In the first panel titled “Strengthening the Türkiye–United Kingdom Trade, Investment and Technology Corridor,” financing instruments, infrastructure investments, and innovation ecosystems came to the forefront. The panel also discussed in detail the adaptation of the Free Trade Agreement to the digital age, its impact on trade flows, and the role of green finance and public–private partnerships. Smart manufacturing, digitalization in logistics, and energy transition were also among the prominent topics.

The Future of Competition: Talent, Technology, and Artificial Intelligence

The second panel, titled “Preparing the Türkiye–United Kingdom Economic Corridor for the Future,” focused on talent management, education, and technology.

The panel addressed the impact of artificial intelligence and digital transformation on education and research, highlighting in particular the international and hybrid learning model of Tarabya British Schools, as well as Oxford’s research excellence and its approach grounded in technology ethics.

Participants emphasized the role of these two models in cultivating globally competitive, future-ready individuals, while also evaluating opportunities for collaboration between Türkiye and the United Kingdom in talent, STEM, and innovation ecosystems. The critical importance of building strong bridges between academia and industry in creating sustainable talent pipelines was also underlined.

A Strong Message for Strategic Cooperation

The forum demonstrated a strong commitment to deepening trade and investment relations between Türkiye and the United Kingdom, accelerating technology-driven growth, and fostering sustainable economic cooperation.

Following the forum, a reception was held, offering participants the opportunity to establish new business connections and further strengthen commercial ties between the two countries.

The event was held with the contributions of Standard Chartered, HSBC, TBS, and Guden Solicitors.

Program:

Welcome Remarks:

H.E. O. Koray Ertaş, Turkish Ambassador to the UK
Christopher Gaunt O.B.E., Chairman, British Chamber of Commerce in Türkiye Saif Malik, CEO UK, Standard Chartered Bank

Panel I: Strengthening the Türkiye–UK Trade, Investment & Technology Corridor

Key Themes:

* Financing tools for bilateral trade, infrastructure, and innovation
* Upgrading the UK–Türkiye Free Trade Agreement (FTA) for the digital era. It's impact on

bilateral Trade and Investment Flows
* Public–private partnerships in technology and green finance
* Smart manufacturing, logistics digitalisation, and energy transition

Moderator: Faruq Muhammed, CFA, Standard Chartered Bank

Panelists:

Melis Metiner, Senior Economist, CEEMEA, HSBC
Vomic Nur Shah, Global Head of Origination & Client Coverage at UK
Export Finance (UKEF) - TBC
Ersoy Erkazancı, UK Country Advisor, Investment and Finance Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye
Ali Güden, Partner, Guden Solicitors

Panel II: Future-Proofing the Türkiye–UK Economic Corridor: Talent, Technology & AI-Driven Competitiveness

Key Themes:

* AI and digital transformation in education and research
* UK–Türkiye collaboration on skills, STEM and innovation ecosystems
* Global best practices in international schooling and hybrid learning –

Tarabya British Schools model
* The Oxford model – nurturing global leaders through research excellence

and technology ethics
* Bridging academia and industry to build future-ready talent pipelines

Moderator: Fatih Aydın, Chair, Oxford Türkiye Alumni Society & Advisory Board Member, BCCT

Panelists:

Pınar Özcan, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Oxford and Academic Director of the Oxford Entrepreneurship Centre and the Oxford Future of Finance and Technology Initiative
Başak Akdemir, Chair, Glenalmond College

Steve Phillips, Vice-Chair of the Board and Head of External Relations at Tarabya
British Schools
Salvador Vazquez, Head of Android Partnerships, Northern Europe (UK, Nordics), Google

Titled “Budget Updates: New Changes & Opportunities,” the event will be held on 16 April 2026 at 16:00 at Bright Space Co Work in Cheshunt, Waltham Cross.

The seminar will provide a practical and insightful overview of the latest developments affecting businesses, particularly in the areas of taxation, compliance, and growth planning. Industry experts will share key updates and guidance to help companies better understand upcoming regulatory changes and identify new opportunities.

A strong panel of speakers is set to participate, including Mehmet Unal from Barclays PLC, Nicky Hudson from Wastepack, and Mehmet Gazioglu, Ali Sener, and Tugrul Yigitoglu from ADPL LLP. In addition, Freddie Wells, Director at Payroll As You Go, will address recent developments in HR regulations and National Minimum Wage (NMW) compliance.

The seminar will cover a range of critical topics such as Making Tax Digital, capital allowances, R&D incentives, international income and tax investigations, and evolving compliance requirements. These insights aim to support businesses in adapting to regulatory changes while strengthening their strategic planning.

The event is particularly relevant for business owners, finance professionals, and decision-makers seeking to stay informed in a rapidly changing economic environment.

Participants can register for the seminar by scanning the QR code provided in the event leaflet.

Event Details

• Date: 16 April 2026
• Time: 16:00
• Location: Bright Space Co Work, 81 Turners Hill, Cheshunt, Waltham Cross EN8 9BD

If you want, I can also adapt this into:

• a sharper headline-driven breaking news version
• a press release format
• or a short social media/news alert version

The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils, said authorities "strive to recover unpaid tax as sympathetically as possible" but it was their duty to collect it.

In the coming days, all councils in England and Wales will have confirmed the level of bills for the year from April. Council tax in Scotland and rates in Northern Ireland operate separately.

The new report by StepChange, which gathered freedom of information responses from councils, found that messaging and policy over non-payment varied considerably.

The charity said it was vital for local authorities to collect council tax to help pay for local services. However, threats following non-payment risked people ignoring letters and offers of help.

"Walking the tightrope of providing guidance to residents and recovering council tax arrears to fund essential local authority services is no doubt difficult," it said in its report called Clear, Fair, Understandable.

"Whilst necessary to recoup funds, it's fair to ask whether councils allow genuine room to repay in a way that does not cause hardship or deepen problem debt."

One man, who missed payments and wished to remain anonymous, told the charity he was already going without food to pay bills when he received a liability order from his council.

"As a disabled person, it left me feeling incredibly vulnerable when all I wanted was to be treated fairly and with compassion," he said.

Prison risk extremely rare

The final sanction of imprisonment, external for non-payment of council tax is only for cases of "wilful refusal" or "culpable neglect". It only operates in England, not Wales or Scotland.

Four people had gone to prison since 2020 and there had been 143 suspended sentences, StepChange said.

In responses to the charity, one in 20 local authorities mentioned the possibility of prison in the first letter to those who had missed one payment.

StepChange said this was counterproductive, scaring people who can't, rather than won't, pay.

Peter Tutton, director of policy, research, and public affairs at StepChange, said this "outdated" sanction should be removed.

Some 36% of council respondents in England and Wales made direct reference to debt recovery or enforcement action in the first letter after a missed payment, rising to 50% by the final letter.

StepChange also hit out at the use of red font in letters, but the charity's report highlighted what it regarded as more sensitive messaging from councils, such as one letter suggesting "don't worry, we can get you back on track".

The LGA, which represents councils across England and Wales, urged anyone struggling to pay their council tax to get in touch with their local authority for help and advice as soon as possible.

"Councils have a duty to their residents to collect taxes so important services, like caring for older and disabled people, protecting children, collecting bins and fixing roads are not affected," a spokesman said.

"They strive to recover unpaid tax as sympathetically as possible and to provide support to households at risk of financial exclusion or hardship."