• Homes in East Renfrewshire are selling the most above list price over every other area in the UK 
• East Dunbartonshire is second in the rankings, with prices rising at an average of around £34,155 more than they were originally listed for 
• Cambridge is selling homes the third most above list price 

New research has found the UK areas selling homes the most above list price, with East Renfrewshire taking the lead. 

The study by experts at moving platform Getamover.co.uk analysed historical Zoopla data for homes sold at a different amount than the list price. The average sale price, average listing price and the difference between the two were considered to reveal which areas see the most homes above their original list price and how much more on average.  

It found that East Renfrewshire has the highest number of properties sold above the list price in the UK. On average, a home in East Renfrewshire is sold for £272,187, but homes are listed initially at an average price of £235,479. This means that potential buyers who are looking to purchase a house in this area are seeing an average price increase of £36,708. 

East Dunbartonshire takes second place, with the average home in this area selling for £262,979 compared to its £228,824 list price. The average difference between its sale price and what it originally listed is £34,155. 

Cambridge comes third on the list, where homes sell for around £31,662 more than originally listed. The average sale price for a home in Cambridge is £779,219, but houses tend to be listed for around £747,557. 

In fourth place is Edinburgh, with an average selling price of £329,51; homes in this city tend to be listed at £298,887. The price increase tends to leave potential buyers needing an additional £30,627 more than anticipated. 

Completing the top five is East Lothian, where homes tend to be listed on average at around £255,219. Despite the original list prices in the area, homes typically sell for £284,675, which is £29,456 more than the original price range. 

The City of London is seeing houses sold on average at £807,500. However, homes are typically listed at around £849,983, which is a £42,483 reduction in price.  

On the other hand, Manchester is listing houses at £228,138 on average, but the properties on the market are selling at an average of £234,848, which is £6,711 more than the average list price. 

The top 10 areas in the UK where homes are selling the most above list price  

Commenting on the findings, David Burrows, head of Getamover.co.uk,: 

“Buying a home is expensive no matter where in the UK you choose to settle down, but a fantastic investment, this study gives huge insight into the most desired areas of the country and where you might find yourself having to pay rather a lot more than the original list price. 

Typically in the UK, the best time to purchase or sell a property is during spring or summertime. By avoiding the colder winter and autumnal months, the risk of having to move during adverse weather conditions like snow and ice is less likely, making a more seamless completion of the sale and getting you in or out of your new home in no time. 

Interestingly, despite London being the most populated city in the UK, it struggles to sell homes above the original list price compared to similar popular areas such as Manchester and Glasgow, which rank higher in the rankings. House prices are also affected by the seasons. Prices are higher at certain times of the year, often spiking in the summer months, especially July, in comparison to the colder months mainly after the Christmas period. It has been found that there are more buyers in the market in spring and summer which means prices do not need to be discounted.” 

• A new study has found that real estate is one of the most stressful industries in the UK
• Human health and social work ranked first, while public defence is in second
• HSE data was examined to find the number of self-reported stress illnesses per 100,000 workers 

New research has revealed the most stressful industries in the UK, with the human health and social work industry taking the top spot.  

The study, conducted by personal injury experts at Claims.co.uk, analysed HSE data to examine the number of stress-related illnesses caused or worsened by employment per 100,000 workers from March 2022 to March 2023; the highest number of stress illnesses determined the ranking.  

The human health and social work industry ranks first on the list; the study found that 3,530 people per 100,000 workers have been impacted by stress at work. However, this industry has one of the largest average salary ranges, between £17,000 to £63,000, and includes jobs such as doctors, therapists, and nursing home assistants.  

Public defence, which has an average salary range of £18,000 to £31,000, is revealed as the second most stressful industry. For every 100,000 workers, 3,260 reported a stress-related illness, meaning that security guards and prison officers are highly likely to suffer from work-related stress.  

The education industry is third on the list, which has an average salary range of £28,000 to £40,000. For every 100,000 workers, 2,720 people reported work-related stress, which is an overwhelming figure of almost 3 in 100.  

Ranking fourth on the list is the professional, scientific, and technical industry, which includes jobs such as solicitors and barristers, and has an average salary range of £25,000 to £48,000. The study revealed that for every 100,000 workers, 2,310 have suffered from work-related stress.  

The finance industry ranks fifth on the list, with 2,140 workers reporting a stress-related illness per 100,000 people. However, the finance industry has a high salary range, ranging from £28,000 to £54,000, where job roles include accountants and bankers. 

The real estate industry ranks sixth on the list, which has an average salary range of £26,000 to £54,000 and includes jobs such as estate agents and property managers. The study reveals that for every 100,000 workers, 2,070 reported a stress-related illness.  

The information and communication industry places seventh on the list, which has an average salary range of £24,000 to £44,000 and jobs such as IT workers and graphic designers. The study found that for every 100,000 workers, 1,870 people reported stress-related illnesses.   

The arts and entertainment industry is eighth on the list; for every 100,000 workers, 1,820 people reported a stress-related illness. The industry includes jobs such as art directors, makeup artists, and background actors, and has an average salary range of £25,000 to £47,000. 

Ranking ninth on the list is the wholesale and retail trade industry, where 1,530 people per 100,000 workers suffered from work-related stress. The average salary range is this industry is £19,000 to £34,000 and includes jobs such as sales administrators and retail cashiers. 

The accommodation and food service industry is tenth on the list, which includes jobs such as bar staff and restaurant workers and has an average salary range of £14,000 to £45,000; 1,430 people in this industry suffered from work-related stress per 100,000 workers. 

Tips On Making a Personal Injury Claim for Stress 

#1. Identify The Cause of Your Stress 

The most common causes for stress at work often arise from heavy workloads, lack of employer support, and workplace bullying. When starting a personal injury claim for emotional harm, it’s crucial to identify the cause of your stress. Legally, employers owe their employees a duty of care in the workplace, so it’s important to recognise when they have harmed your emotional health.   

#2. Make a Note of Your Emotions 

In order to identify the cause of work-related stress, it can be useful to make a note of your emotions on a daily basis. This can help you keep track of your emotional health and can allow you to determine whether your mental health has significantly worsened during your employment. These notes can also be a helpful source during GP appointments.  

#3. Speak to Your Employer About Any Concerns 

Before starting a personal injury claim, it can be helpful to vocalise your concerns to your employer where possible. Perhaps the situation could be mitigated through negotiation, such as requesting a lighter workload; however, if your employer refuses to consider your mental well-being when distributing heavy workloads, this could be a potential cause for a personal injury claim.  

#4. Keep Track of Any GP Appointments 

It’s crucial to keep track of any GP appointments and maintain these medical records – many personal injury claims have to be submitted within three years of when the injury/emotional harm occurred, so these records can help speed up personal injury claims.  

A spokesperson from Claims.co.uk,commented on the study: “We are currently living amid a mental health crisis, which means that it’s essential for us to look after ourselves and recognise when our mental wellbeing may be at risk, particularly in the workplace.” 

“It’s fundamental for employers to protect their employees’ mental health. One of the main ways this can be done is to regularly check in with employees, aiming to create an open environment to discuss thoughts and feelings.” 

Some people may assume that personal injury claims are limited to broken bones and cuts, but they also extend to what people can’t see, such as mental, emotional, or psychological harm; so, if you have experienced stress at work, it is in your best interest to speak to a legal professional.” 

This information was provided by personal injury experts at Claims.co.uk

• Gold is the most sought-after personal investment
• Silver is the second most popular, closely followed by oil in third
• The overall average search volume for all types of personal investments is 3,195,381 across America

A new study has revealed the most popular personal investments, with gold taking the top spot.

The study, conducted by financial publisher The Lazy Trader, used Google search data to examine the number of searches for each type of personal investment; each of these was combined with terms such as ‘investment tips’ and ‘tips’ to discover which ones had the highest search volume overall, thus determining the ranking.

The most popular personal investments are as follows:

The most searched personal investment in the US is gold, with an average monthly search volume of 1,191,827. Gold is a commodity that trades based on supply and demand; the ratio between supply and demand determines the price of gold at the time of the investment. With the elevated interest rates and the continual concerns of a recession in the US, gold can be a reliable long-term investment and outperform other assets like properties and different equities as it is easier to liquidate. There are also tax advantages in gold investments; gold prices have increased considerably in 2023 and have shown stability compared to other markets.

The second most searched personal investment is silver, with an average monthly search volume of 677,527. Silver is a valuable, hard asset when it comes to investments and is cheaper to invest in than gold, while still fighting inflation. Silver mining has gradually decreased since 2015, making it a valuable asset to invest in before it becomes a rarer raw material. Silver is used for many different purposes from machinery to medicine, and the global demand is constantly increasing the value of the commodity overall.

In third, with an average monthly search volume of 588,808, is oil. Oil is an essential commodity and is used globally every day. Due to the high demand of fossil fuels, oil supplies are decreasing while the demand remains high, resulting in oil becoming a more valuable resource. Oil has huge potential for big profits and positive return on investments (ROI).

Ranking the fourth most popular personal investment is natural gas, with an average monthly search volume of 150,880. Natural gas is another fossil fuel that comes with its investment advantages. It is environmentally friendly and more affordable than coal and gas. With growing concerns about global warming and ways to make the planet greener, natural gas is already used in replacement of coal to reduce fuel emissions into the atmosphere (ROI).

In fifth place is forex, with an average monthly search volume of 85,112. Forex is a foreign exchange market that operates globally, 24 hours a day, five days a week. As well as its convenient operating hours, forex has low transaction costs as its trading has lower fees than other financial markets. The market has high liquidity, meaning you can buy and sell different currencies without affecting the price, which is more appealing to investors as it reduces the chances of a loss in profit.

Coming in sixth place is real estate, with an average monthly search volume of 81,397. Investing in real estate can be an easy money maker with incomes from rent and profit generated by certain business activities that take place on the invested property. It is a reliable investment in terms of generating steady cash flow, which only strengthens over time as you pay down your mortgage, resulting in more equity.

Copper is the seventh most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 69,468. Copper is a popular commodity, and due to the coronavirus pandemic, mining has slowed down; companies could even struggle to mine at all if the price of copper drops. Copper can be a risky investment as it is recyclable and is less precious than other metals, yet it is used in many different industries, from building industries to automobiles. Copper is key in renewable energy and will be essential for protecting the environment, which suggests a reliable investment in the long term.

In eighth place is options, with an average monthly search volume of 51,448. Options trading is the act of buying and selling a stock or ETF at a certain price within a set timeframe. Options give you more control over your investments and can therefore be less risky than equities as they require less financial commitment.

Ranking as the ninth most popular personal investment is penny stocks, with an average monthly search volume of 41,351. Penny stocks are very low cost in comparison to other forms of investments, which makes them accessible to investors with both low and high capital. They often show great potential for high returns if the penny stocks maintain substantial growth. Stocks that have lost value or become dormant may be big money-makers in the future, meaning a small investment could go a long way.

The tenth most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 34,533, is platinum. Platinum remains valuable and in demand across all industries due to its non-corrosive properties and diverse use across different industries. Platinum is an easy investment to liquidate to get cash quickly instead of stocks or bonds, which is a longer process.

Robert Colville, CEO of The Lazy Trader commented on the findings:

“When it comes to choosing the right personal investment for yourself, it can be difficult weighing up the pros and cons. It is important to be well educated on where you invest your money, as some methods will be more successful than others; make sure you have conducted extensive research and remain aware of what your choice of investments will entail.”

“It is interesting to see which investments Americans are most eager to try and learn more about. With an unpredictable economy and the constant changes in prices of stocks and commodities, people should be warier of fluctuations in these environments and ensure they put their money into a reliable form of personal investment.”

As homeowners consider selling their property, it’s crucial to maximise its value. Neil McKenzie, finance property expert at Halton Stairlifts gives his straightforward, effective strategies to enhance your home’s appeal and increase its market value.

Spruce Up the Exterior

First impressions count. A tidy, attractive exterior can significantly boost your property’s curb appeal. Consider repainting your front door, maintaining the garden, and ensuring the driveway and paths are clean and well-kept. Small efforts like these can make a big difference in how potential buyers perceive your home.

Refresh the Paint

A fresh coat of paint in neutral colours can transform your home, making it appear brighter, bigger, and more inviting. Stick to light, airy colours to help potential buyers envision themselves in the space. This simple update can have a considerable impact on your home’s appeal.

Fix and Repair

Attend to those lingering repair jobs you’ve been putting off. Fixing leaky taps, squeaky doors, and replacing broken tiles can go a long way in showing that your home has been well-maintained. These minor fixes can prevent buyers from being put off by small issues.

Declutter and Clean

A clutter-free and clean home is more appealing and can make rooms appear larger. Take the time to declutter each room, removing personal items and excess furniture. A thorough clean, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, can make your home more attractive to buyers.

Update Lighting

Good lighting can enhance the mood of your home, making it feel warm and welcoming. Replace any outdated fixtures and consider adding lamps to brighten darker corners. Ensuring your home is well-lit for viewings can make a positive impression on potential buyers.

Invest in Key Upgrades

If your budget allows, investing in key upgrades, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, can significantly increase your property’s value. Even small changes, like replacing cabinet handles or upgrading fixtures, can modernise these spaces without a full renovation.

Energy Efficiency Improvements

Making your home more energy-efficient is not only good for the environment but also appealing to buyers. Simple changes like sealing windows, adding insulation, or upgrading to a more efficient boiler can improve your home’s energy rating and appeal.

Obtain Planning Permission

If you have potential for extending or converting space in your home, obtaining planning permission in advance can add value. It saves potential buyers the hassle and uncertainty, making your property more attractive.

Stage Your Home

Finally, consider staging your home for viewings. This doesn’t necessarily mean hiring a professional stager, but arranging furniture to maximise space and showcase your home’s best features can make a significant difference. Ensure each room has a clear purpose and is presented in the best possible light.

Finance property expert from Halton Stairlifts, Neil McKenzie says: 

In conclusion, while the specific value added to your property from making improvements can vary, a well-considered combination of the enhancements outlined could, on average, contribute to an increase in your property’s value by up to 10-15%. This estimate takes into account both minor and major upgrades, from cosmetic touch-ups like painting and decluttering to more significant investments like kitchen renovations and energy efficiency improvements.

Remember, the key to maximising your return on investment is to focus on changes that enhance the appeal and functionality of your home, align with current buyer preferences, and are cost-effective relative to the expected increase in property value. Consulting with a local estate agent can also provide personalised advice tailored to your property and the local market, ensuring you invest your time and money wisely.

By thoughtfully applying these simple tips, you’re not just improving your home; you’re investing in its future saleability and potential to attract higher offers, making your next step on the property ladder that much easier.

• Gold is the most sought-after personal investment
• Silver is the second most popular, closely followed by oil in third
• The overall average search volume for all types of personal investments is 3,195,381 across America

A new study has revealed the most popular personal investments, with gold taking the top spot.

The study, conducted by financial publisher The Lazy Trader, used Google search data to examine the number of searches for each type of personal investment; each of these was combined with terms such as ‘investment tips’ and ‘tips’ to discover which ones had the highest search volume overall, thus determining the ranking.

The most popular personal investments are as follows:

The most searched personal investment in the US is gold, with an average monthly search volume of 1,191,827. Gold is a commodity that trades based on supply and demand; the ratio between supply and demand determines the price of gold at the time of the investment. With the elevated interest rates and the continual concerns of a recession in the US, gold can be a reliable long-term investment and outperform other assets like properties and different equities as it is easier to liquidate. There are also tax advantages in gold investments; gold prices have increased considerably in 2023 and have shown stability compared to other markets.

The second most searched personal investment is silver, with an average monthly search volume of 677,527. Silver is a valuable, hard asset when it comes to investments and is cheaper to invest in than gold, while still fighting inflation. Silver mining has gradually decreased since 2015, making it a valuable asset to invest in before it becomes a rarer raw material. Silver is used for many different purposes from machinery to medicine, and the global demand is constantly increasing the value of the commodity overall.

In third, with an average monthly search volume of 588,808, is oil. Oil is an essential commodity and is used globally every day. Due to the high demand of fossil fuels, oil supplies are decreasing while the demand remains high, resulting in oil becoming a more valuable resource. Oil has huge potential for big profits and positive return on investments (ROI).

Ranking the fourth most popular personal investment is natural gas, with an average monthly search volume of 150,880. Natural gas is another fossil fuel that comes with its investment advantages. It is environmentally friendly and more affordable than coal and gas. With growing concerns about global warming and ways to make the planet greener, natural gas is already used in replacement of coal to reduce fuel emissions into the atmosphere (ROI).

In fifth place is forex, with an average monthly search volume of 85,112. Forex is a foreign exchange market that operates globally, 24 hours a day, five days a week. As well as its convenient operating hours, forex has low transaction costs as its trading has lower fees than other financial markets. The market has high liquidity, meaning you can buy and sell different currencies without affecting the price, which is more appealing to investors as it reduces the chances of a loss in profit.

Coming in sixth place is real estate, with an average monthly search volume of 81,397. Investing in real estate can be an easy money maker with incomes from rent and profit generated by certain business activities that take place on the invested property. It is a reliable investment in terms of generating steady cash flow, which only strengthens over time as you pay down your mortgage, resulting in more equity.

Copper is the seventh most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 69,468. Copper is a popular commodity, and due to the coronavirus pandemic, mining has slowed down; companies could even struggle to mine at all if the price of copper drops. Copper can be a risky investment as it is recyclable and is less precious than other metals, yet it is used in many different industries, from building industries to automobiles. Copper is key in renewable energy and will be essential for protecting the environment, which suggests a reliable investment in the long term.

In eighth place is options, with an average monthly search volume of 51,448. Options trading is the act of buying and selling a stock or ETF at a certain price within a set timeframe. Options give you more control over your investments and can therefore be less risky than equities as they require less financial commitment.

Ranking as the ninth most popular personal investment is penny stocks, with an average monthly search volume of 41,351. Penny stocks are very low cost in comparison to other forms of investments, which makes them accessible to investors with both low and high capital. They often show great potential for high returns if the penny stocks maintain substantial growth. Stocks that have lost value or become dormant may be big money-makers in the future, meaning a small investment could go a long way.

The tenth most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 34,533, is platinum. Platinum remains valuable and in demand across all industries due to its non-corrosive properties and diverse use across different industries. Platinum is an easy investment to liquidate to get cash quickly instead of stocks or bonds, which is a longer process.

Robert Colville, CEO of The Lazy Trader commented on the findings:

“When it comes to choosing the right personal investment for yourself, it can be difficult weighing up the pros and cons. It is important to be well educated on where you invest your money, as some methods will be more successful than others; make sure you have conducted extensive research and remain aware of what your choice of investments will entail.”

“It is interesting to see which investments Americans are most eager to try and learn more about. With an unpredictable economy and the constant changes in prices of stocks and commodities, people should be warier of fluctuations in these environments and ensure they put their money into a reliable form of personal investment.”

• Homes in East Renfrewshire are selling the most above list price over every other area in the UK 
• East Dunbartonshire is second in the rankings, with prices rising at an average of around £34,155 more than they were originally listed for 
• Cambridge is selling homes the third most above list price 

New research has found the UK areas selling homes the most above list price, with East Renfrewshire taking the lead. 

The study by experts at moving platform Getamover.co.uk analysed historical Zoopla data for homes sold at a different amount than the list price. The average sale price, average listing price and the difference between the two were considered to reveal which areas see the most homes above their original list price and how much more on average.  

It found that East Renfrewshire has the highest number of properties sold above the list price in the UK. On average, a home in East Renfrewshire is sold for £272,187, but homes are listed initially at an average price of £235,479. This means that potential buyers who are looking to purchase a house in this area are seeing an average price increase of £36,708. 

East Dunbartonshire takes second place, with the average home in this area selling for £262,979 compared to its £228,824 list price. The average difference between its sale price and what it originally listed is £34,155. 

Cambridge comes third on the list, where homes sell for around £31,662 more than originally listed. The average sale price for a home in Cambridge is £779,219, but houses tend to be listed for around £747,557. 

In fourth place is Edinburgh, with an average selling price of £329,51; homes in this city tend to be listed at £298,887. The price increase tends to leave potential buyers needing an additional £30,627 more than anticipated. 

Completing the top five is East Lothian, where homes tend to be listed on average at around £255,219. Despite the original list prices in the area, homes typically sell for £284,675, which is £29,456 more than the original price range. 

The City of London is seeing houses sold on average at £807,500. However, homes are typically listed at around £849,983, which is a £42,483 reduction in price.  

On the other hand, Manchester is listing houses at £228,138 on average, but the properties on the market are selling at an average of £234,848, which is £6,711 more than the average list price. 

The top 10 areas in the UK where homes are selling the most above list price  

*Please contact for the full table. 

Commenting on the findings, David Burrows, head of Getamover.co.uk,: 

“Buying a home is expensive no matter where in the UK you choose to settle down, but a fantastic investment, this study gives huge insight into the most desired areas of the country and where you might find yourself having to pay rather a lot more than the original list price. 

Typically in the UK, the best time to purchase or sell a property is during spring or summertime. By avoiding the colder winter and autumnal months, the risk of having to move during adverse weather conditions like snow and ice is less likely, making a more seamless completion of the sale and getting you in or out of your new home in no time. 

Interestingly, despite London being the most populated city in the UK, it struggles to sell homes above the original list price compared to similar popular areas such as Manchester and Glasgow, which rank higher in the rankings. House prices are also affected by the seasons. Prices are higher at certain times of the year, often spiking in the summer months, especially July, in comparison to the colder months mainly after the Christmas period. It has been found that there are more buyers in the market in spring and summer which means prices do not need to be discounted.” 

As the high streets and shopping centres of the United Kingdom face unprecedented change, the insight of industry leaders like Scott Dylan, the co-founder of Inc & Co, becomes invaluable. In a world where the very fabric of consumer interaction is constantly being redesigned, Dylan’s anticipation of retail trends propels forward-thinking businesses towards a transformative horizon. With a focus on evolving retail spaces, his perspective sheds light on the changes in retail commercial property, urging stakeholders to embrace adaptability and customer-focused innovation.

Grasping the essence of current consumer expectations, Dylan charts a course for the retail industry that harmonises digital commerce with the tangible allure of brick-and-mortar stores. This synergy fosters environments where traditional retail strategies intertwine with a tech-driven approach, invigorating the marketplace and inspiring businesses to scale new heights. Those who succeed in anticipating retail trends will not only endure but thrive, crafting spaces that resonate with modernity and timeless appeal alike.

Tracing the Transformation of Retail Spaces

The retail industry has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, tracking the footprints of its storied heritage to today’s bold advance into the digital age. Pioneers such as John D. Rockefeller and Thomas Edison pioneered the groundwork for what has become a bustling labyrinth of evolving retail spaces. These magnates set the parameters that are still pivotal to the designs and business methods that characterise the contemporary retail landscape.

Christianity has always been renowned for its historical evolution, from the simple market stalls that festooned the thoroughfares of ancient civilizations to the elaborate emporiums that symbolize modern commerce. Today, digital transformation has married the time-honoured practice of trade with the convenience and reach of the digital realm, sparking a new wave of economic development with far-reaching implications for the future of the retail industry.

In this relentless pursuit of progress, we have seen how traditional retail has been compelled to evolve with agility and creativity, reinventing itself in response to the inexorable march of technology. With the advent of advanced digital technologies, retail spaces have transcended physical limitations, allowing entrepreneurs to interact with customers on a global scale, hence redefining the essence of consumer experience.

Scott Dylan details this narrative transition from physical marketplaces to the digital storefronts of today. Through his lens, we recognise the ever-growing symbiosis of technology and entrepreneurship, a partnership that continues to drive the evolution of retail spaces.

This journey of retail space transformation is not simply a trend but an echo of human progression, where the essence of innovation has been and continues to be the primary catalyst for change. It is a journey that looks toward a future where the once clear lines between physical and virtual shopping experiences are increasingly blurred, reflecting the changing fabric of consumer expectations and the retail industry at large.

Adaptive Retail Environments and Customer-Centric Design

Scott Dylan’s vision for the retail sector epitomises the concept of adaptive retail environments, engineered around the core principles of customer-centric design. This future-forward approach to retail space development focuses on creating a seamless and engaging consumer experience. Informed by an in-depth understanding of the customer’s evolving preferences, these designs are nimble, ready to transform alongside ever-changing consumer behaviour and market trends.

Transforming retail architecture under Dylan’s guidance acknowledges the necessity for retail spaces to function as interactive shopping experiences. This dynamic allows consumers to move beyond the traditional transactions of yesteryear and step into a world where their journey is enhanced by real-world curation, interactivity, and specialised services tailored to their unique demands.

In response to challenges such as those posed by the pandemic, there is a clear imperative for retail to not just innovate but outpace the pressing demands of the era. Dylan envisions spaces that can pivot with agility, offering immersive and engaging experiences that resonate on a local and global scale.

Indeed, the potential to reconfigure retail spaces into more agile, responsive, and locally attuned environments, especially in light of the Covid-19 crisis in 2020, has never been more apparent. It can be seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the commercial landscape, where the very essence of interactions is attuned to the narrative of individuality and personalised service.

The culmination of these efforts leads to retail locations that not only meet but anticipate customer desires, fostering an atmosphere of community and connection—essentials in the quest to maintain relevance in an increasingly digitalised world. Therefore, the future of retail lies in its ability to adapt—continuously and creatively—to the ebb and flow of consumer desires and the pulse of technological innovation.

Evolving Retail Spaces: Integrating Emerging Technology

In the present day, emerging retail technology stands at the forefront of the metamorphosis within retail spaces, ingeniously charting the course of the industry. Scott Dylan, a seasoned digital entrepreneur, harnesses the transformative power of this technology, melding it with the consummate skill of a maestro, to redefine consumer engagement. His expertise in implementing digital tools and predictive analytics positions him as an oracle within the retail revolution.

The utilisation of artificial intelligence and big data analytics has become progressively ubiquitous, signifying a trend that is reshaping the retail experience. These tools enable a level of personalisation hitherto unfathomable, offering consumers the same individuated treatment online as they would receive in the personal space of a high-street shop.

Through a digital-first strategy, retail spaces are evolving beyond mere points of purchase into vibrant hubs of innovation and interaction. Technological integration not only streamlines the shopping process but also equips retailers with the essential insights that guide astute business decisions. This paradigm shift, underpinned by the vision of digital entrepreneurs, is leading to an era where retail spaces cease to be static, transitioning instead into dynamic ecosystems that thrive on adaptability and customer-centric experiences.

At the vanguard of this movement, Dylan articulates a future where technology serves as both a catalyst and conduit for retail’s evolution, unwavering in his belief that enriching the consumer journey with technological finesse is the quintessence of modern retail.

The burgeoning realm of retail technology thus transcends mere transactional exchanges, invoking an immersive world that entices the senses and invites participation. As retail ventures throughout the United Kingdom brace for a digitalised future, the imperative for integration of cutting-edge tools in the ever-changing retail landscape has never been clearer.

The Impact of Digitalisation on Brick-and-Mortar Stores

The realm of retail is witnessing a seismic shift as the digitalisation impact reverberates through the very foundations of physical brick-and-mortar stores. Scott Dylan, renowned for his keen insights on digital enterprise transformation, observes a profound redefinition in retail structures, precipitated by the ascent of online business models. This paradigmatic transition is not so much a substitution as it is a strategic augmentation and integration of digital capabilities with traditional commerce.

Revolutionised by digital frameworks, retail spaces have acquired a newfound agility, enabling rapid scaling and expansion across global markets. E-commerce startups and digital emporiums now serve as exemplars of adaptability, showcasing the versatility and resilience required to navigate the currents of online business growth. Yet, whilst digitalisation presents unmatched opportunities for expansion, it concurrently poses the challenge of remaining pertinent in an economy that is increasingly digital-first.

Scott Dylan accentuates the criticality of innovation within the retail sector, emphasising that maintaining relevance in today’s digitised economy necessitates a continuous commitment to adapt and evolve. It is this driving force for innovation that could spell the future survival and success of retail establishments the world over.

The consumer landscape has become one where expectations are as transient as the technology that shapes them. Dylan’s perspective foregrounds the importance of businesses embracing digital enterprise transformation to meet and exceed these shifting consumer expectations. It is an endeavour that requires a complex tapestry of solutions, including interactive online interfaces, responsive supply chain mechanisms, and data-driven decision-making processes ingrained into the operations of brick-and-mortar entities.

In summation, digitalisation’s impact, not unlike a double-edged sword, empowers and challenges the conventional brick-and-mortar stores. To thrive amidst the dynamism of digitalisation, Scott Dylan suggests that a fusion of innovation and agility must be at the heart of any retail business strategy — a beacon guiding the transformation of retail spaces in this relentlessly evolving digital epoch.

Scott Dylan’s Insight on Future Retail Industry Trends

Focusing on future retail industry trends, Scott Dylan recognises the crucial role of innovative thinking and nurturing an innovation culture in the sustainability and success of retail businesses. In an ever-changing landscape, the scalability and adaptability of operations are what separate thriving entities from those that stagnate. According to Dylan, central to a retail business’s scalability is the integration of an innovation-led approach that informs and transforms every aspect of the organisation’s strategy and execution.

With the UK’s retail industry at a crossroads, Dylan’s insights suggest that successful enterprises will be those that view scalability not as an end goal but as a continuous process rooted in innovation. This includes fostering a culture where ideas bloom from all hierarchies within the organisation, constituting a democratic approach to innovation that empowers and encourages each member of the workforce to contribute to the business’s growth.

Dylan advocates, “The future of retail requires a crucible of collaborative thought; an environment that not only accepts change but thrives on it. Embracing an open exchange of ideas is imperative and must become part of the very DNA of a retail organisation.”

It is Dylan’s belief that scalability must be underpinned by a strong foundation in forward-thinking and innovative practices. This ethos, he notes, results in groundbreaking product developments and transformative processes that redefine the customer experience. By adopting a democratic approach to business management, small businesses, in particular, stand to gain a competitive edge, propelling them toward profitable scalability and robust market presence.

In a dynamic marketplace, the retail businesses that can acclimate to fluctuating consumer demands, while contributing innovatively to their sector, are the ones that will define the future trend of retail. Therefore, embedding an innovation culture as the cornerstone of business strategy, as highlighted by Dylan’s philosophy, becomes essential for retailers aiming to scale and succeed in the unfolding narrative of the UK’s retail industry.

Evolving Consumer Trends and Their Impact on Retail

The retail landscape is currently undergoing a significant transition, influenced by the evolving consumer behaviour that is shaping the industry’s future. Observing these changes, industry experts like Scott Dylan emphasise the necessity for retailers to reassess their strategies to align with the emerging consumer trends impacting consumer preferences. Innovative store layouts and an increased focus on local enterprise are key elements in this new retail paradigm. Retailers who seek to thrive in this environment are required to not just respond to but to anticipate these shifts in behaviour.

Retailers face the challenge of creating spaces that blend the comfort and familiarity of traditional shopping experiences with the convenience and innovation inherent in digital offerings. Scott Dylan underscores the growing expectation among consumers for more than just transactional exchanges — they demand personalised, enriching encounters whenever they enter a retail space. To meet this need, the concept of curated experiences within retail settings has come to the forefront.

Furthermore, the impact of changing workplace dynamics — with more individuals spending increased time in local areas — presents a defining opportunity for retail spaces. There is a burgeoning demand for shops that capture the essence of the community, offering specialised services and products that reflect local culture and needs. As the high street reinforces its position as a cornerstone of daily life, the local enterprise is poised to offer an authentic connection to the rhythm of the neighbourhood it serves.

The implications for retailers are clear. As consumer behaviour continues its inexorable evolution, the retail sector must adapt by cultivating environments that are innovative, responsive, and grounded in community ethos. This proactive approach ensures that retail spaces remain at the cutting edge of consumer trends, offering engaging experiences that resonate with customers’ shifting values and expectations.

The integration of innovative store designs with local enterprise sensibilities stands as the fulcrum upon which the future of retail pivots. Embracing such consumer trends does not merely create opportunities for retail growth; it future-proofs businesses against the rapidly changing tides of consumer demand and maintains their relevance in an increasingly competitive and digitised marketplace.

The Role of Sustainability in Retail Commercial Property Development

In an era marked by mounting environmental concerns and consumer-centric imperatives, sustainability in retail has burgeoned into a cornerstone principle for businesses and developers alike. Visionary leaders like Scott Dylan are cognisant of the trajectory that commercial property development must take to cater to these evolving needs. As society grapples with the urgency of a climate-changing reality, there is an unmistakable shift towards spaces reflective of not only economic viability but also steadfast ecological integrity.

These progressive overlays in retail strategies are embodied in the growing trend towards consumer-conscious retail consumption, where shoppers are increasingly allying with brands that prioritise sustainability. The physical environments where such transactions take place are also under scrutiny. Retail commercial property development is undergoing a profound metamorphosis, spearheaded by the imperative to marry commerce with sustainability. This encompasses the development of mixed-use strategy spaces, which integrate retail alongside communal and social amenities, crafting a rich tableau of human-centric urban spaces.

Proponents of sustainable development such as Dylan advocate for an all-encompassing, sustainable strategy which ensures that retail environments do not just exist in harmony with their surroundings but reinforce the principles of renewable energy resources, waste minimisation, and eco-friendly design practices. It is this holistic and inclusive approach that is predicted to define the future of retail spaces, rendering them resilient in the face of both market transitions and environmental exigencies. Retailers and property developers must, therefore, embrace this paradigm, forging ahead to create commercial spaces that resonate with the ethos of sustainability at their core.

Property & Construction sector Spring Budget predictions from Menzies LLP,
one of UK’s leading accountancy and strategic advisory firms

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will set out the Government budget to Parliament on Wednesday, 6 March. With the General Elections drawing close, it’s expected that the upcoming changes will focus more on individuals, rather than to businesses and corporates, to sway voters in the Conservative party’s favour.

Given the pressing needs of businesses, prioritising tax cuts should be crucial. But it’s also important that the Government take a balanced approach, given the limited scope for further cuts particularly in light of mounting government debt.

Rebecca Wilkinson, Tax Director and Property & Construction sector Specialist at Menzies LLP, has outlined her top wishlist items and predictions for the announcement next month.

Menzies’ predictions and wishlist for the Property & Construction sector

As we have seen in the news recently, the number of insolvencies in the construction sector is increasing significantly and the housebuilding sub-sector is the worst hit. This is due to the weak demand for new homes, which is caused by higher interest rates and the general cost of living crisis. The Help to Buy scheme ended in 2023 and I would like to see the scheme either extended or re-imagined with a view to providing stimulus in the housing market.

Home improvement projects are also stalling. A possible way of increasing demand could be to offer incentives to home-owners and landlords who spend money on improving the energy efficiency of residential properties, or offering enhanced cap al allowances to businesses that spend money on green technologies.

In the residential rental sector, there is an increase in the number of private landlords suffering rent arrears as lower income tenants struggle to pay rents. Many landlords are also paying higher interest charges and the combined result is an increasing number of landlords in arrears on their mortgages, forcing many to sell up. A decreasing stock of private rental housing could be disastrous for low-income families as there is also a lack of available social housing. I would like to see the Government reconsider the punitive tax rules which restrict the amount of tax relief that individual landlords can claim on their interest costs.

Overall, it will be helpful to see if there is a strategy in place to stimulate the property market.  We would also like to see another Stamp Duty holiday, or the stamp duty surcharge scrapped. We also know the Capital Gain Tax (CGT) allowance is due to be reduced from £6,000 to £3,000 in April 2024 so this could be delayed or scrapped.

For more information about Menzies LLP, visit www.menzies.co.uk.

A North East regeneration specialist, which is delivering homes for people with specific housing needs, is also boosting local wildlife and biodiversity.

As part of an ongoing drive to make ecological considerations in the design of its projects, Vistry North East is implementing various habitat enhancements at a development of apartments for people over 55, in Penshaw, near Sunderland and at an Extra Care project, in Guisborough, North Yorkshire.

Part of the Vistry Group, Vistry North East enlisted ecological consultants, Ecosurv, to offer pre-construction advice, expertise and ongoing guidance throughout the builds. Operating under its ‘Habibat’ brand, Ecoserv has developed a range of habitat features tailored for bats, birds and bees, which can be seamlessly built into brickwork. Each product has been developed in conjunction with relevant advisory organisations, such as The Bat Conservation Trust and RSPB.

Impressed by this habitat feature range, Wienerberger bricks, a key partner in Vistry’s supply chain, has allocated dedicated factory space in their UK facility to manufacture these units for use on new developments.

Across the two developments, Vistry North East is installing eight bat boxes – including three specifically designed for bats during the breeding season; six swift nesting boxes, five sparrow nesting boxes; five bumble bee boxes and ten bee bricks – which provide a host of varying sized nesting spaces for solitary bees. In addition, six open fronted nest boxes – to be installed in retaining walls at the development in Guisborough – will provide additional spaces for insects to live and thrive, boosting biodiversity.

Andrew Mayfield, Senior Design Manager, Vistry North East said: “The loss of habitat for our native wildlife has been a huge driver in the continued decline of many species across the UK. Swifts were added to conservation experts’ red list of the UK’s most endangered birds in 2021 and eight species of bee – a third of the remaining species we have – are currently listed on conservation priority lists, due to their large-scale declines in distribution. These are just two worrying examples.

“However, by thinking imaginatively, working with experienced and knowledgeable partners and implementing design features that create habitat and promote biodiversity, new development can make a positive impact – providing new spaces for animals to live and thrive.

“Our planning and site teams have gone the extra mile on both developments to maximise the opportunities presented and we will continue to explore opportunities to enhance the natural environment in the communities in which we build.”

Graham Jeffery, Managing Director, Ecosurv said: “Wildlife is in a state of decline across the UK with 41% of species reducing in number since 1970. The modernisation of building materials with new designs in recent years has meant that species which previously adapted alongside the built environment, have quite often become excluded from newer buildings. Operating nationally, we have partnered with Wienerberger to combat this problem by producing a range of eco-habitat solutions for a wide range of species including birds (swifts, starlings, sparrows, robins, wrens and redstarts) bats and bees.

“We are delighted to be working with Vistry North East on a number of projects across the region and have been impressed by its progressive approach to the issue of habitat creation on its developments.”

Paul Hodgkinson, Director of Business Development, Wienerberger, Said: “The collaboration between Wienerberger and EcoSurv is testament to the connection between sustainable development and the preservation of biodiversity. By creating spaces that provide opportunities for wildlife we can help reduce species decline across the UK.

“In July last year, MPs debated a call for swift bricks to be made mandatory for new housing development due to declining numbers – following an e-petition which gained more than 100,000 signatures. Eco-habitats allow developers to integrate features such as swift bricks aligning not only with future legislative changes but setting precedents for ecologically responsible development.”

At Penshaw Gardens, just off Station Road in the village, Vistry North East is delivering a complex of 72 apartments for people over 55, in collaboration with Sunderland-based housing association Gentoo Group.

At Guisborough, just off Spring Wood Road, a 83 unit extra care facility, for people with specific housing needs, is currently being constructed for Housing 21, a national provider of Extra Care and Retirement Living for older people of modest means.

Vistry North East is part of Vistry Group, the UK’s leading provider of affordable mixed tenure homes. A young and dynamic business with a Partnerships-led approach – delivered through the Countryside Partnerships brand – the Group is delivering thousands of homes every year for the affordable and private marketplaces. The Group also encompasses a portfolio of retail brands, including Linden Homes, Bovis Homes and Countryside Homes.

Vistry North East is currently active on 15 construction sites around the North East region with a gross development value of just over £630 million and is working with six housing associations and seven local authorities.  

Investec research reveals that the average price reduction on £1m+ homes in the Home Counties was 10% in H2 2023 vs 8.6% for a sample of equivalent properties in London.

Data was gathered from tens of thousands of properties between 1 June and 1 December 2023.

• Berkshire saw the smallest average reduction in price (8.5%) whilst also being the slowest market, with £1 million+ homes taking 111 days on average to sell. Prime properties sold fastest in East Sussex (just 74 days).
• West Sussex saw the largest average price reductions by both absolute value (£187,805) and percentage (12.6%).
• Surrey had most new listings of homes over £1m, almost double that of Hertfordshire, which had the second most listings.
• Crucially, the availability of prime property, time taken to sell and average price and reduction varies significantly between the counties Investec explored – meaning that buyers who want to capitalise on opportunities should get to know their target market.

13 February 2024: Prime residential property in the Home Counties has seen significant price reductions of 10% on average since June 2023, as the impact of interest rate increases begins to be felt, according to new research from Investec, the leading private bank.

The figures – based on data from tens of thousands of UK addresses – also cover several postcodes in prime central London and show that discounts on high-end property have been less significant across these areas of the capital (8.6%).

Anecdotally, Investec is seeing high levels of interest in prime property in the Home Counties – particularly in locations within commuting distance of London. The recent price discounts could therefore create opportunities for potential buyers.  

West Sussex saw the largest average price reduction both by value (£187,805) and as a percentage (12.6%) over the period, followed by Essex (11.2%) and Kent (10.6%). London generally proved more resilient, with an average reduction of 8.6% and reductions as small as 4.8% in postcodes such as NW3. However, there was variation in the capital too, where sellers in W2 and W8 postcodes reduced prices by an average of 12% and 11.5% respectively.

Across the Home Counties, prices in Berkshire were the most robust, with an average reduction of 8.5%. However, it was also the slowest market, with £1 million+ properties taking 111 days on average to sell, followed by West Sussex (100 days) and Kent (99 days). Prime properties sold the fastest in East Sussex where the process took 74 days on average.

Unsurprisingly, London properties over £1 million had the highest average sales price at £1.85 million, followed by Buckinghamshire (£1.65 million) and Oxfordshire (£1.62 million). The lowest average was East Sussex with £1.34 million.

Oxfordshire had the smallest amount of new supply, with just 719 new listings of properties over £1 million in the period. At the other end of the spectrum, Surrey has the best new supply – with 2,928 new listings (more than double the Hertfordshire, the next best supplied market with 1,670 listings). This reflects the large amount of prime property in Surrey.

Carlos Mendes, Private Banker at Investec, said:

“The Home Counties are often referred to as a collective, but our research shows that there is a significant variation in the availability and price of prime property in these areas. The gradual return to office-based working has brought the commute time firmly back into focus, so we’ve seen greater client demand for the established commuter towns on the outskirts of London. Proximity to top-performing schools also remains a key priority, as does access to good local restaurants and amenities. In the current interest rate environment, it is perhaps unsurprising to see the larger price reductions occurring further afield, in locations such as West Sussex, where second homes are more prevalent. 

“Every property purchase is unique, and every person’s financial situation is unique. It’s therefore important that high-net-worth individuals work with lenders who understand their ideal home and location so they can access a mortgage that meets their needs, in a timeframe that allows them to seize opportunities.“

The findings from Investec’s private banking team covered residential properties for sale from 1 June to 1 December 2023 across the Home Counties of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey and West Sussex and Oxfordshire, and eight prime central London postcodes (NW3, SW6, W8, SW3, W2, W11, SW11, NW8). 

Investec’s Property Index 2024 can be found here: Investec Property Index 2024.

Investec offers a range of private bank accounts for clients earning at least £300,000 a year and with a minimum net worth of £3 million. Teams are structured by profession – enabling them to understand the complex earning profiles that HNWIs often have. Clients are looked after by a dedicated private banker who can provide tailored banking, borrowing, savings solutions or foreign exchange.