Attention is focused on the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas projects off the Scottish coast. Although both developments received approval under the previous Conservative government in 2022 and 2023, court action led to those decisions being overturned in 2025.

The expected announcement is part of a broader package of early policy initiatives from Burnham's incoming administration. These proposals are set to include greater public ownership of water and energy companies, an expanded programme to build council housing, and measures designed to ease pressure on household finances.

Specific details of the revised North Sea policy have not yet been disclosed. The issue has remained politically contentious, with former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer arguing that additional drilling would not reduce consumer energy bills and that long-term energy security depends on accelerating the transition to renewable sources.

Opposition parties, including the Conservatives and Reform UK, have consistently argued for increased domestic oil and gas production. They contend that relying more heavily on UK energy resources is particularly important during periods of global instability, such as recent tensions involving Iran that have contributed to higher energy prices.

The debate also attracted criticism from US President Donald Trump, who repeatedly urged the UK to expand North Sea oil production and criticised the previous government's energy strategy in social media posts before Starmer left office.

Within Labour, views on energy policy have been divided. Some MPs have called for a more flexible approach, arguing that the shift away from fossil fuels must safeguard employment and help keep energy affordable. Others maintain that expanding renewable energy remains the most effective way to strengthen energy security while addressing climate change.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, who is expected to retain a senior cabinet position, has been one of Labour's strongest advocates for limiting new drilling licences. He has previously described approval of the Rosebank project as damaging to the UK's climate ambitions.

Earlier this week, representatives from the oil and gas sector and trade unions jointly urged Burnham and Labour MPs to support continued North Sea production. They argued that backing the industry would demonstrate the government's commitment to domestic manufacturing, investment and communities that have long depended on the energy sector.

Burnham secured the Labour leadership unopposed after receiving the support of 379 Labour MPs and all 11 affiliated trade unions. He has said he is finalising his cabinet before formally entering Downing Street on Monday.

Speculation continues over key ministerial appointments, with Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood among those reported to be potential candidates for the role of chancellor. Burnham has declined to announce his cabinet in advance, saying doing so before taking office would create unnecessary disruption.

In his first speech after becoming Labour leader, Burnham pledged to restore optimism and deliver practical improvements quickly. Alongside changes to energy policy, his wider agenda is expected to focus on expanding council housing, revitalising town centres, improving education, reforming social care, increasing public control of water and energy services, and transferring more decision-making powers from Whitehall to local authorities.

At a private tasting attended by British journalists, food writers, chefs, public relations professionals, artists and business leaders, guests were introduced to the extraordinary heritage behind Turkish extra virgin olive oil. Rather than promoting individual brands, the evening focused on the history, craftsmanship and internationally recognised quality of Türkiye’s olive oils, with award-winning extra virgin olive oils from Oro di Milas and Köstem Organic Farm presented throughout the tasting.

Hosted at Zahter Restaurant, one of London’s leading ambassadors of modern Turkish cuisine, the event offered a compelling example of gastronomy as cultural diplomacy—using food not simply to showcase flavour, but to tell the story of a civilisation.

Two international olive oil experts, one shared mission

The evening was hosted by journalist, international olive oil educator and certified olive oil sommelier Aynur Tattersall alongside Giulia Crouch, food writer for The Times and a certified olive oil sommelier.

Despite coming from different countries, both speakers shared the same ambition: to raise awareness of extra virgin olive oil not only as a premium food product, but also as an essential element of health, culture and Mediterranean heritage, while helping position Turkish olive oil more prominently on the international stage.

During her presentation, Tattersall traced Türkiye’s olive oil story from the ancient olive presses of Klazomenai in Urla to the internationally acclaimed oils of Milas.

She argued that although Türkiye is now among the world’s leading producers of olives and olive oil, its premium extra virgin olive oils remain significantly underrepresented in global markets.

“The challenge today is no longer simply producing exceptional olive oil,” Tattersall said. “It is telling the world the story behind it—the thousands of years of history, culture and healthy living that every bottle represents.”

She described gastronomy as one of the most powerful forms of cultural diplomacy available to countries seeking to strengthen their international image.

Tattersall and Crouch then led a professional olive oil tasting, introducing guests to the sensory characteristics that define premium extra virgin olive oil. Participants learned how fruitiness, bitterness and pungency are not defects but essential indicators of freshness, quality and high polyphenol content.

Their shared conclusion was clear:

Exceptional extra virgin olive oil is far more than a cooking ingredient; it is a symbol of healthy living, sustainable agriculture and one of humanity’s oldest culinary traditions.

A 2,600-year-old legacy

The presentations explored Türkiye’s remarkable olive-growing history, which stretches back thousands of years.

At the heart of the story is the ancient city of Klazomenai, near today’s Urla on the Aegean coast. Dating back to the 6th century BC, its olive oil workshop is widely regarded as one of the oldest known olive oil production facilities in the world. Its remarkably sophisticated pressing technology demonstrates that Anatolia played a pioneering role in olive oil production more than two and a half millennia ago.

Guests were reminded that olive oil has never been merely a food product. For thousands of years, it has shaped economies, cultures, civilisations and the Mediterranean way of life.

Milas: Türkiye’s internationally recognised olive oil region

The evening also highlighted Milas, in southwestern Türkiye, where the indigenous Memecik olive produces some of the country’s most distinctive extra virgin olive oils.

Celebrated for their vibrant fruitiness, balanced bitterness, peppery finish and naturally high polyphenol content, Milas olive oils became the first Turkish olive oil to receive the European Union’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.

Speakers noted that the designation recognises not only exceptional product quality but also the unique geography and centuries-old production traditions that define the region.

Attention was also drawn to Türkiye’s growing position among the world’s largest olive oil producers. Participants agreed that stronger international branding and storytelling could significantly increase the global value of Turkish premium extra virgin olive oils.

A menu built around olive oil

Following the tasting, guests enjoyed a specially curated menu inspired by the diverse culinary traditions of Anatolia.

Each dish showcased the role of extra virgin olive oil as the defining ingredient of Turkish cuisine.

Yasemin Mutlu, manager of Zahter Restaurant, explained that olive oil is central both to the restaurant’s philosophy and to her own family’s daily life.

“We simply don’t cook with any other oil,” she said. “Every dish in our kitchen is prepared with extra virgin olive oil, and we use only olive oil at home as well. For us, it is much more than an ingredient—it is the foundation of our cuisine, our culture and our approach to healthy living.”

A lesson in gastronomic diplomacy

With industry forecasts pointing towards another strong olive harvest in Türkiye, speakers emphasised that increasing production alone will not be enough. Building global recognition through education, storytelling and cultural engagement will be equally important.

The London gathering demonstrated how olive oil can become a powerful instrument of soft power.

As guests sampled oils from Urla and Milas alongside Zahter’s contemporary interpretation of Anatolian cuisine, they experienced something that extended far beyond a tasting. They encountered a civilisation shaped by olives over more than 2,600 years.

The evening closed with a clear message: if Türkiye wishes to secure the international recognition its olive oils deserve, it must export not only exceptional products, but also the history, culture and identity that have made them possible.

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.

Contact Accounting Direct Plus (ADPL)
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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.

Book a free consultation with London Team Contact : T: 020 3337 6262 W: +44 7717 096567

Address: Covent Garden, London UK

Email: hello@esteworld.com
Social Media-Instagram: @esteworld_gb

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