Blog - Page 9 - Ceres Shop

The Evolution of Christmas Pudding

Posted by Emma on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Let's take a stroll down memory lane and chat about a holiday classic: Christmas Pudding. You know, that famous yet often misunderstood dish, also known as plum pudding or figgy pudding. It's the s … read more

UK Government Reconsiders Tax-Free Shopping to Boost Tourism

Posted by Emma on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The government is revisiting the idea of reinstating tax-free shopping for tourists in a move that could reinvigorate the UK's tourism and hospitality sectors. This decision, initially scrapped in … read more

McCain Faces £700,000 Fine After Employee Loses Fingers

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a regrettable incident at their Lincolnshire facility, frozen potato industry leader McCain has been fined £700,000. The incident occurred on September 2nd, 2019, when Tom Matthews, a dedicated … read more

Spotted Dick: A Sweet Trip Down Memory Lane

Posted by Emma on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Have you ever wondered about the story behind Spotted Dick? Grab a cuppa and a slice of spotted dick, and let's find out how it came to be. Remember when life was simpler, and dessert was the … read more

McDonald's Strategic Investment in Dark Kitchens Drives Revenue Growth

Posted by Stelios on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In the ever-evolving world of fast food, adaptability is critical to staying competitive. McDonald's, the global fast-food giant, has recognised the importance of catering to the changing needs of … read more

Meet the Top 10 Contenders for Employee of the Year

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In the world of fish and chips, excellence knows no bounds, and the competition is heating up as we unveil the top 10 contenders for the coveted title of Employee of the Year at the National Fish a … read more

Increased Confidence in the Hospitality Sector Despite Challenges

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Optimism in the hospitality sector is rising despite challenging cost dynamics and looming rate uncertainties. According to the latest insights from the Business Confidence Survey conducted by CGA … read more

Travelodge Shatters Expectations with Strong 2023 Performance

Posted by Emily on 26th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Travelodge proudly announces its exceptional performance for the nine months ending on September 30, 2023, showcasing a remarkable surge in revenue and profit compared to 2022 figures. The company … read more

McDonald's UK's Response to Rising Disruptions

Posted by Emma on 25th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In recent months, several McDonald's locations in the UK have faced a significant challenge: addressing anti-social behaviour by teenagers. This has led to some drastic measures being implemented a … read more

EU Takes Steps to Ban 'Forever Chemicals' and Lightweight Plastic Bags, but Single-Use Packaging Still Faces Challenges

Posted by Emma on 25th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a significant move, the European Parliament has voted to ban Bisphenol A (BPA) and 'forever chemicals' from food packaging while also targeting lightweight plastic carrier bags for elimination. … read more

Next-Level Delivery: KFC Teams Up with Uber Direct

Posted by Emma on 24th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

KFC UK & Ireland is excited to announce a dynamic partnership with Uber Direct, aiming to revolutionise its delivery channel. This collaboration integrates Uber Eats's advanced technology and e … read more

UKHospitality's Call for Action: Extending CBILS Repayment Terms

Posted by Emily on 24th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a critical appeal for support, UKHospitality is championing the extension of Coronavirus Business Interruption Loans (CBILS) repayment terms. According to the organisation's chair, this move is … read more

The Challenging Potato Harvest Across the UK and Europe 2023

Posted by Emma on 24th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The potato harvest in the UK and Europe has faced significant challenges this year due to adverse weather conditions, including storms and heavy rainfall. The UK is bracing for one of its most mino … read more

Announcing the Top 3 Finalists for Best Mobile Operator at the National Fish and Chip Awards

Posted by Emily on 23rd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

We're thrilled to unveil the prestigious Mobile Operator of the Year finalists in the 2024 National Fish and Chip Awards. This year, the spotlight shines on three outstanding businesses from Lancas … read more

Business Rate Relief Extended in Autumn Statement

Posted by Emma on 23rd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a pivotal announcement during the Autumn Statement, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has delivered a much-needed boost to the hospitality sector by extending business rates relief for an additional 12 mon … read more

Zero Plus - a new premium proposition

Posted by Emily on 23rd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Zohaib Hussain spared no effort in renovating his takeaway, Zero Plus Fish Bar in Cardiff, earlier this year, with the intention of boosting business. With a desire to have a shop he c … read more

Ukraine's Struggle to Maintain Wheat Supplies Amidst War

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In an urgent advisory, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has raised concerns about the future of Ukraine's wheat supply. The WFP cautions that continued disruptions to Black Sea export … read more

Small Business Rates Relief: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

You may be eligible for relief on your business rates as a small business. These are handled differently in each of the UK's countries, so this article will provide a general guide to what they are … read more

A Journey Through Christmas Dinners in British History

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Families all over the UK eagerly anticipate their Christmas lunch or dinner on Christmas morning. Everyone has their cherished favourites, be it the crispy roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings … read more

The UK Autumn Statement 2023

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a decisive move to bolster the UK economy amidst the challenges of stagflation, the government's Autumn Statement outlines a comprehensive growth strategy. This plan focuses on stimulating busin … read more

Compass Unveils $500 Million Buyback Following Impressive Profit Surge

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a remarkable year of growth, the world's leading catering company, headquartered in Chertsey, Surrey, has demonstrated its financial strength by boosting dividends by a third and announcing a $5 … read more

National Living Wage Set to Increase to £11.44 per Hour

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a significant development, the minimum wage, officially called the National Living Wage, is scheduled to rise by over a pound to £11.44 per hour starting in April of the coming year. This wage s … read more

UK Supreme Court Rules Deliveroo Riders Cannot Form Unions

Posted by Emma on 21st Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a groundbreaking decision, the UK Supreme Court has ruled that Deliveroo riders cannot form unions for collective bargaining purposes. This long-standing dispute, initiated by the Independent Wo … read more

Best Newcomer Nominees at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024

Posted by Emily on 21st Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In the flavourful and competitive world of fish and chips, five emerging UK chip shops have distinguished themselves, securing spots on the coveted Newcomer of the Year shortlist for the National F … read more

Italy Takes a Stand: Cultivated Meat Banned and Plant-Based Meat Labeling Restricted

Posted by Emma on 21st Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Italy's government has made a bold move by passing a bill that bans the production and promotion of cultivated meat and places stringent restrictions on how plant-based products can be labelled. Th … read more

Top 3 Multiple Operator Finalists Announced for the NFFF National Fish and Chip Awards 2024

Posted by Emily on 20th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The National Fish and Chip Awards 2024 have unveiled their top three contenders in the Best Multiple Operator of the Year category. These fish and chip groups have been through a rigorous selection … read more

Delivery Giants Reassess Rider Substitution Policies Amid Legal Concerns

Posted by Emma on 20th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Major food delivery companies like Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat are rethinking their approach to courier substitutions. This policy change comes after government officials raised concerns abo … read more

The Urgent Call to Freeze Business Rates

Posted by Emma on 19th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Imagine walking down your favourite high street only to find your go-to café or that quirky little shop you love shuttered for good. That's the kind of crisis brewing in the hospitality, retail, an … read more

The Return of Beef Burgers: A Shift in Food Trends

Posted by Emma on 19th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In the ever-evolving world, there's been a flavour shift. Veganism, once the shining star, is now sharing the stage with the comeback kid of the food scene: "smashed burgers." Recent data shows tha … read more

Haggis Unveiled: A Whimsical Journey into Scotland's Heart

Posted by Emma on 19th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Scotland's national drink, whisky, is celebrated worldwide, yet its national dish, haggis, often finds itself at the heart of good-natured amusement within the nation. Enquire of any Scot, "What is … read more

Top 5 Shortlist for Restaurant of the Year 2024

Posted by Emma on 16th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Being recognised by the fish and chip industry as the Restaurant of the Year will soon become a reality for one UK business, as the five category finalists are named for the 2024 award. The co … read more

Meet the six young friers who’ve reached the third round of the DYFFY competition.

Posted by Emma on 14th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

There's sizzle and excitement in the air as six dynamic young friers are making waves in the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024. These rising stars, all under 25, are now close to snagging the cove … read more

From Poultry Farms to Wall Street: The Untold Story of the Mcdonalds Chicken McNugget

Posted by Emily on 13th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In the intricate tapestry of foodservice, where mastery meets strategic business foresight, the story of McDonald's Chicken McNuggets stands as an emblem of evolution and innovation. This narr … read more

Frozen at sea prices down - but is price the whole story?

Posted by Emily on 13th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Some fish & chip shop owners have told us the price of frozen sea fish has halved since the beginning of the year, but is that the case for all? We look at the broader picture. While prices of … read more

A Crispy Christmas Chronicle: Japan's Fascination with KFC for the Festive Season

Posted by Emily on 12th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Imagine a Japanese Christmas, where instead of the traditional roast turkey, families across the nation eagerly queue up for something entirely different – a hearty meal of KFC's fried chicken. Thi … read more

The Festive Tale of Panettone's Charming Journey to Britain

Posted by Emma on 12th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Once upon a time, in the bustling Christmas markets of London, nestled among the twinkling lights and festive cheer, a delightful Italian treat began to make its mark. Panettone, a sweet and airy b … read more

The Ingenious Geometry Behind Pringles' Unique Crunch

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The iconic Pringles crisp, renowned for its addictive crunch and flavour, holds a secret in its form – a marvel of engineering: the hyperbolic paraboloid shape. "Once you pop, the fun don't stop, … read more

Domino's Pizza Group Experiences Decrease in Delivery Orders Amid Rising Cost of Living

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

On November 9, Domino's Pizza Group announced a decrease in meal deliveries for the third quarter. This downturn is attributed to customers reducing their orders due to the escalating cost of livin … read more

McDonald's UK Chief Faces Parliamentary Inquiry Over Workplace Culture Concerns

Posted by Emily on 10th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The head of McDonald's in the UK, Alistair Macrow, has been summoned to appear before Members of Parliament (MPs) to address mounting concerns about a troubling work environment at the fast-food gi … read more

Seeds of Strategy: Russia's Agricultural Exports in the Wake of Western Sanctions

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a recent dialogue in Kazakhstan, Russian leader Vladimir Putin emphasised the importance of enhancing transport routes for wheat and fertilisers within Asia. This strategic move comes as Russia … read more

JD Wetherspoon Raises a Glass to Increasing Sales Amid Energy Concerns

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon is celebrating a boost in sales, outshining the general market with its competitive pricing strategy. The company announced a 9.5 per cent uplift in like-for-like sales for the 14 we … read more

Taxing Times: Alcohol Duty Debate Heats Up Pre-Autumn Statement

Posted by Emily on 9th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The beverage sector is calling on the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, to honour his commitment to reducing inflation by scrapping the proposed hike in alcohol duty in his forthcoming Autumn Statement. … read more

Expansion on the Menu: Domino's to Trial Uber Eats Service

Posted by Emily on 9th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Domino's Pizza Group is set to experiment with a new collaboration with the delivery service Uber Eats in the upcoming year to bolster its expansion efforts. Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via … read more

The Top 20 Contenders for Britain's Best Fish and Chip Takeaway in 2024

Posted by Emma on 9th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The esteemed National Fish and Chip Awards have unveiled the top 20 fish and chip shops vying for the prestigious Takeaway of the Year category title. After rigorous evaluation, considering fa … read more

M&S: A Profit Turnaround as Strategy Yields Results

Posted by Emily on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Marks & Spencer has delivered a robust financial update that's turning heads in the business community. The figures for the fiscal year's first half are striking: a 56% surge in pre-tax profits … read more

Salmonella Outbreak Attributed to Kebabs After Fatality in Austria: Further Cases Anticipated

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

In a concerning development across the European Union, nine individuals have been hospitalised, and one has succumbed following an outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis ST11. The European Food Safety … read more

Ferrero's Path to a Greener Future: Navigating New EU Deforestation Laws

Posted by Emily on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Choosing products that don't harm forests should be the norm, not an option. That's what Ferrero Group believes as it gears up for the new EU rules to stop deforestation. Ferrero, the company behin … read more

Suspension of Irish Beef Exports to China Following BSE Case

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The brisk trade of Irish beef to China has come to a sudden standstill. The cause? The emergence of an atypical BSE case in a cow within Ireland's borders. The case was confirmed following stringen … read more

End of an Era: The Caramac Bar Bids Farewell After 64 Sweet Years

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Devotees of the classic Caramac are expressing profound disappointment following Nestlé's confirmation that the caramel-flavoured bar will be retired after a 64-year legacy. Nestlé has acknowl … read more

Bitter Bite: Patisserie Valerie's Collapse Leads to Long-Awaited 2026 Trial

Posted by Emily on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The unfolding saga of the once-celebrated high street favourite, Patisserie Valerie, has turned towards a lengthier courtroom drama, with the key figures accused of fraud now set to stand trial in … read more

UK Faces Critical Shortage of Food Safety Officers

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

According to recent research findings, the UK's hospitality sector and its customers could be threatened due to an alarming shortage of food safety officers The latest yearly review by the Foo … read more

A Chronicle of Fish & Chips

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

To say Mike Pili knows a story or two about fish and chips would be a vast understatement. As he shares a host of anecdotes from more than 60 years of experience in the trade, we can’t help bu … read more

Millions could get a 'huge pay increase' next year in 2024

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Next year, many could see a significant boost in their pay. The Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, has hinted that the national living wage might increase to £11 per hour by April 2024. However, recent proje … read more

Accusations Levelled at Coca-Cola, Danone, and Nestlé Over Environmental Claims

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Coca-Cola, Danone, and Nestlé are facing allegations of falsely advertising their plastic water bottles as "100% recycled." These claims have prompted a consumer watchdog alongside environmental or … read more

Burger King Adopts Touchscreen Ordering

Posted by Emma on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Burger King is updating its ordering process, bringing touchscreen kiosks to modernise customer interactions. This move indicates a significant shift towards digital in the fast food industry. … read more

Beyond Meat to Cut 10% of Staff Following Sales Downturn

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Beyond Meat, a leading plant-based food manufacturer, is set to cut its workforce by 10% after its third-quarter sales fell short of expectations. Pascal Shirley, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimed … read more

China Ramps Up Wheat Imports Amid Crop Shortfalls

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

China has increased its wheat imports, securing roughly 2 million tonnes from Australia's new crop and an additional 2.5 million tonnes from France. This move counters the severe damage to nearly a … read more

The British Hospitality Sector's Appeal for Business Rate Support

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The UK's beloved local pubs and hospitality venues stand at a critical juncture, facing an unprecedented financial challenge. As relentless cost increases threaten the heart of British social life, … read more

McDonald's Israel Goodwill Gesture Sparks International Debate

Posted by Emily on 2nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

A gesture of goodwill has become a flashpoint for controversy among McDonald's franchisees in the Middle East and Asia following the brand's Israeli branch's decision to donate meals to Israeli hos … read more

Carlsberg CEO Condemns 'Theft' of Russian Business Amidst Exit Challenges

Posted by Emma on 2nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The chief executive of the Danish beer maker Carlsberg has accused Moscow of "stealing" the company's Russian operations. This follows the confiscation of Carlsberg's assets in Russia in July, n … read more

Protest Involving Live Mice at Birmingham McDonald's Restaurants Sparks Investigation

Posted by Emily on 2nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

McDonald's has issued a stern denouncement following a series of protests at their Birmingham outlets, where live mice - stained in the colours of the Palestinian flag - were released by individual … read more

Top 10 Shortlist for the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Award

Posted by Emily on 2nd Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Following a three-year interlude, the prestigious Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year category is poised for a triumphant comeback at the 2024 National Fish and Chip Awards. In the wake of nu … read more

French Towns vs. the Big Mac

Posted by Emily on 1st Nov 2023 Reading Time:

The residents of Sérignan-du-Comtat, a picturesque village in Provence, were appalled to discover this summer that their local restaurant was about to become a McDonald’s. More than 800 of them hav … read more

Leon Restaurants to Launch within Asda Stores Following £2 Billion Acquisition

Posted by Emma on 1st Nov 2023 Reading Time:

Asda has assumed control of the Leon restaurant chain following a £2 billion transaction to purchase a substantial portion of its affiliate, EG Group's UK operations. Leon Restaurant, Old Compton … read more

May your Christmas - and New Year - be merry and bright!

Posted by Emily on 31st Oct 2023 Reading Time:

Christmas is just around the corner and although it can be tempting to leave your festive marketing until the last knockings, getting your skates on early will always pay off, especially this year … read more

Byron's establishments dwindle to single digits after more shutdowns

Posted by Emily on 31st Oct 2023 Reading Time:

The embattled burger brand Byron has witnessed its number of branches diminish to a mere few after a series of recent closures. Malcolmxl5, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons The company … read more

Golden Returns: McDonald’s Posts Impressive Quarterly Rise

Posted by Emily on 30th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

McDonald’s has exceeded market expectations in terms of both profit and revenue for the third quarter. Nextarity2, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons The company disclosed profits of $3.19 … read more

Point of View - Response to Jan Moir's Daily Mail Tom Kerridge Article

Posted by Stelios on 29th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

I wanted to address misconceptions in Jan Moir's Daily Mail piece on Tom Kerridge's Harrods venture. The general public has misconceptions about what makes excellent fish & chips, and this oft … read more

Unravelling the Mystery of Nitrates in Your Food

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

Nitrates often conjure images of chemistry experiments or agricultural fertilisers rather than something you'd find on your dinner plate. However, these compounds are more than scientific curiositi … read more

Easy Guide to TUPE

Posted by Emma on 29th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

TUPE is like a safety net for workers when another business takes over the company they work for. It makes sure that employees don't just lose their jobs or rights because of this change. Brea … read more

Behind the Numbers: Mastering The Balance Sheet

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

In the UK, businesses must prepare and submit balance sheets annually. But what exactly is a balance sheet, and why is it crucial? This easy-read guide breaks it down for you. What Is a Balanc … read more

The Disappearing British Pub: A Crisis in the UK's Social Landscape

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

The British pub scene, a cornerstone of the nation's cultural heritage, is threatened like never before. For the first time since we've begun keeping track, the UK is home to fewer than 100,000 est … read more

UK Urged to Restrict Sugar Production to Combat Obesity

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

Health and environmental experts have urged the government to limit the United Kingdom's sugar output to address the nation's obesity epidemic, as detailed in a new collaborative report. Alupu … read more

Climate Crisis and Crime: A Perfect Storm Brews in the Olive Oil Industry

Posted by Emily on 28th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

In recent months, the olive oil industry has faced a multifaceted crisis. Not only are production levels plummeting due to extreme weather conditions, but a spate of thefts in producer countries li … read more

Five Guys Embark on Major Expansion: 140 New UK Outlets Projected

Posted by Emily on 27th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

In a strategic business move, Five Guys is set to expand its UK market presence significantly. John Eckbert, Chief Executive, has outlined a plan for the renowned American burger chain to establish … read more

Over 1,000 Cats Saved from Slaughter in China

Posted by Emily on 27th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

In China, police have liberated over 1,000 cats destined for slaughter and fraudulent sale as pork or mutton, as per reports by media affiliated with the state. The force, responding to inform … read more

KFC Temporarily Closes Lesotho Outlets Amid South African Bird Flu Crisis

Posted by Emily on 27th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

KFC has declared the closure of all its outlets in Lesotho following a severe bird flu outbreak in the adjacent nation of South Africa. Gafirita jean d'amour Uwimana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimed … read more

AG Barr Welcomes Tropical Flavour with £12.3M Rio Purchase

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

AG Barr, the creators of Irn-Bru, are introducing a tropical twist to their expanding collection following the acquisition of the soft drink brand Rio in a deal worth £12.3 million. Image Sour … read more

Heineken's UK summer beer sales subdued by surging prices and inclement weather

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

Global sales volumes witnessed a 4.2% decline as prices escalated by 9.5%, contributing to a 2% sales increase, reaching €9.6bn. Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Co … read more

Will Pizza Express Owner Outbid Apollo? Inside the Tense Takeover Struggle for Wagamama's TRG

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

The owner of Pizza Express, Wheel Topco, is potentially setting its sights on a takeover bid for Wagamama, currently under the umbrella of The Restaurant Group (TRG). Stephen Shaw at English W … read more

Unilever Responds to a Washed-Out Ice Cream Season

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

This summer witnessed a steep decline in ice cream sales, partly owing to inclement weather, reports the producer of Ben & Jerry's and Magnum, Unilever. The company, custodian to other familiar … read more

No More Finger Lickin' Goods on Deliveroo as KFC Opts Out

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

The renowned fried chicken franchise KFC and delivery powerhouse Deliveroo have called time on their collaboration, unable to find common ground on commission rates. Consequently, from today, 26 Oc … read more

Revel in the Crispy Triumphs: Top 10 Contenders for the "From Field to Frier" Honour – National Fish and Chip Awards 2024

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023 Reading Time:

The stage is set to celebrate the unsung heroes behind every scrumptious bite of Britain's beloved fish and chips. Ten stellar establishments have risen, battering away fierce competition to secure th … read more