The transaction, expected to be completed later this year, will result in the formation of a new dedicated lifestyle group within Hyatt, headquartered in New York City. This group will be led by Amar Lalvani, the current Executive Chairman of Standard International, who will assume the role of President & Creative Director. The new division will benefit from Hyatt’s operational and loyalty infrastructure; while maintaining distinct leadership in areas such as design, marketing, and guest experience creation.

Hyatt’s acquisition includes management, franchise, and licensing agreements for 21 hotels, comprising approximately 2,000 rooms. Among the properties are The Standard, London; The Standard, High Line in New York City; and The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon, alongside boutique establishments like Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin, Texas, and Hotel San Cristóbal in Baja California, Mexico. These hotels will be integrated into Hyatt’s World of Hyatt loyalty programme, offering 48 million members access to this collection of lifestyle properties.

Mark Hoplamazian, President and CEO of Hyatt, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, praising Standard International’s unique and award-winning portfolio. “The team behind Standard International has created brands and properties that have become destinations in their own right. We are thrilled to welcome their properties and team into the Hyatt family as we continue to push the boundaries of what a lifestyle brand can be,” Hoplamazian said.

Lalvani, who has been instrumental in the global development of The Standard and Bunkhouse brands, highlighted the synergies between the two companies. “We waited a long time to find the right partner, and in Hyatt, we have found a company with a powerful global infrastructure and a loyal guest base that aligns with our vision. We are excited to join forces and look forward to the potential that lies ahead,” Lalvani stated.

The acquisition includes over 30 projects with signed agreements or letters of intent, with several new properties slated to open in the coming year, such as The Standard, Pattaya Na Jomtien and The StandardX, Bangkok Phra Arthit. Additionally, Standard International’s residential ventures, including developments in Miami, Lisbon, and Mexico City, will be part of the expanded portfolio.

Hyatt will pay a base purchase price of $150 million, with the potential for an additional $185 million as more properties are added. This acquisition marks another significant step in Hyatt’s evolution into a brand- and experience-driven company, expanding its influence in the lifestyle hospitality sector.

The post Hyatt to Acquire Standard International, Expanding Lifestyle Brand Portfolio appeared first on EMC UK.

This hesitation is particularly pronounced among younger parents, with nearly half (42%) of those aged 18-24 avoiding their baby’s food due to concerns about texture and taste. Despite these concerns, the research shows that many parents do taste their child’s food, with 37% doing so out of anxiety about its nutritional value, and 50% driven by curiosity to experience the flavour and quality.

Hollyoaks star and new mother Jessica Fox, along with dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine, founder of Mummy Nutrition, is spearheading a campaign to encourage parents to embrace the textures of baby food. The ‘Taste the Texture Challenge’ aims to make introducing diverse textures and flavours to babies a fun and interactive experience for both parents and their little ones.

Jessica Fox, mother to 11-month-old River, shared her own experiences with the weaning process, noting the pressure parents feel to make the right nutritional choices for their children. “Feeding my baby has been a daunting responsibility, and I understand why some parents might be hesitant to try baby food—the texture can be off-putting. But it’s so important to taste the food we’re giving our most precious little ones,” she said.

Organix’s research underscores the importance of parents engaging in the act of trying their baby’s food. The study found that 84% of children mimic their parents when eating, highlighting the role of shared experiences in shaping a child’s eating habits and fostering a deeper connection between parent and child.

Jessica added, “No parent has a perfect weaning journey, but I’ve realised it’s about exploring textures together. It’s a shared adventure that connects us. Organix is a brand I genuinely love and trust. Their meals have become our go-to because they offer the perfect texture and taste for each stage of the weaning journey.”

The research also reveals that many parents are unsure about the appropriate feeding practices during weaning. A fifth of parents lack confidence in knowing what to feed their baby at each stage, and 20% mistakenly believe that delaying texture progression will not lead to feeding challenges later on.

Nichola Ludlam-Raine, who has been a fan and ambassador for Organix, emphasised the importance of introducing a wide variety of textures during weaning. “Exposure to new tastes and textures is crucial for the initial acceptance of foods and the development of healthy eating behaviours. It’s important to remember that no two weaning journeys are the same, but gradually increasing texture is key for optimal development.”

Organix’s award-winning range of baby meal pots is designed to introduce a wide variety of tastes, textures, and flavours for every stage of development. The meals, packed with over 55% vegetables and pulses, follow planetary health principles and come in recyclable pots, making them both nutritious and environmentally friendly.

For more information and tips on introducing texture during weaning, parents are encouraged to visit www.organix.com and take part in the ‘Taste the Texture Challenge’ to help their babies explore new tastes and textures.

The post A Third of Parents Avoid Baby’s Food Due to Texture Aversion appeared first on EMC UK.

The “Wellbeing at Work” study suggests that while older workers seem to be navigating their professional lives with relative ease, their younger colleagues are facing considerable challenges. The findings indicate that Gen Z, the cohort born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is struggling to settle into the workplace, with many feelings overwhelmed and disconnected.

The survey’s results have prompted calls for employers to adopt strategies that specifically address the needs of younger workers, who are more prone to burnout. Guy Thornton, Founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, has outlined several approaches that employers can implement to support Gen Z employees and help them thrive alongside their more experienced colleagues.

1. Encourage a Positive Work Environment

Thornton emphasises the importance of fostering open communication in the workplace, particularly for younger employees who may feel more isolated or less confident in expressing their concerns. “Creating an environment where Gen Z employees can voice their opinions and concerns freely is crucial,” he says. “This not only promotes team cohesion but also helps younger employees feel more comfortable and valued, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.”

2. Provide Learning and Development Opportunities

One of the key factors contributing to Gen Z’s struggle in the workplace is the lack of clear development and career growth opportunities. Thornton notes that younger employees are more likely to feel detached and uncertain about their future if they do not see a path for advancement. He advocates for the implementation of robust professional development programmes, including mentorship schemes, networking opportunities, and regular performance reviews. “Investing in the future of your Gen Z employees through learning and training programmes will not only improve retention rates but also enhance their engagement and sense of belonging,” Thornton adds.

3. Implement Mental Health Support

Given that Gen Z is the generation most likely to experience burnout, Thornton stresses the importance of providing mental health resources in the workplace. Many Gen Z employees entered the workforce during the pandemic, which has exacerbated feelings of isolation and disconnection. Thornton suggests that employers offer confidential counselling, stress management workshops, and wellness programmes to create a supportive environment. “Understanding the unique challenges faced by this generation is key to promoting a balanced and healthy workplace dynamic,” he says.

4. Promote Work-Life Balance

Thornton also highlights the value that Gen Z places on work-life balance, which often contrasts with traditional workplace norms. “Gen Z employees prioritise their personal lives and are more likely to seek flexible working arrangements,” he explains. To retain and motivate younger staff, employers should consider offering flexible working hours, encouraging the use of annual leave, and setting clear boundaries around work-related communications outside of office hours. “Ensuring that employees can switch off from work is vital for preventing burnout and maintaining productivity,” Thornton advises.

5. Foster a Collaborative and Inclusive Culture

Finally, Thornton underscores the importance of building a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture, particularly for younger employees who may feel overwhelmed or stressed. He suggests that team-building activities can help strengthen relationships and build trust among a multigenerational workforce. “A supportive and engaging culture not only boosts morale but also enhances the overall quality of work,” he concludes.

As the workplace continues to evolve, these strategies aim to bridge the gap between generations, ensuring that all employees, regardless of age, can thrive and contribute to a positive and productive work environment.

For more information, visit https://www.practiceaptitudetests.com/.

The post Gen Z Struggles with Burnout as Baby Boomers Thrive in the Workplace, Survey Finds appeared first on EMC UK.

The study examined monthly search data for terms such as “vouchers,” “codes,” and “coupons” across various UK locations, adjusting for city size to identify the areas where residents are most actively seeking online deals. Croydon stood out with 16,041 average monthly searches for savings-related keywords, equating to 84.71 searches per 100,000 total Google searches. This makes Croydon the top location in the UK for bargain hunters, far outpacing the national average.

Croydon Leads the Way

According to the data, “Groupon” is the most popular deal-related search term in Croydon, reflecting a strong inclination towards using well-known platforms to find discounts. This trend is not unique to Croydon; “Groupon” was found to be the most searched term across all cities in the UK, underlining its dominance in the online discount market.

Fred Harrington, CEO of Bountii, commented on the findings: “According to the data, residents in Croydon have shown that they understand the value of searching for vouchers and coupons online the most. Taking the time to find the best deal when shopping online not only helps to stretch your budget but also allows shoppers to feel a sense of achievement.”

St Helens and Birmingham Follow Closely

St Helens, located in Merseyside, ranked as the second savviest area in the UK. The data shows that residents of St Helens search for deals and coupons 9,844 times a month, which equates to 83.73 searches per 100,000 total searches. “Discount for teachers” was a particularly popular search term in St Helens, second only to “Groupon.”

Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, claimed the third spot on the list. With 77,338 average searches for discount-related keywords, Birmingham residents conducted 82.14 searches per 100,000 Google searches each month. The city’s residents were particularly interested in finding a “SHEIN discount code,” following “Groupon.”

Cities With a Keen Eye for Deals

Oldham and Bolton secured the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Oldham residents conducted 80.37 searches per 100,000, while Bolton residents were not far behind with 80 searches per 100,000. Similar to St Helens, Bolton residents showed a strong interest in “discounts for teachers,” making it the second most popular search term in the area after “Groupon.”

Blackburn, Walsall, and Liverpool also featured prominently in the rankings, with these areas demonstrating a consistent eagerness to find online deals. Liverpool residents, in particular, searched extensively for discounts on popular online shopping platforms like “ASOS,” in addition to the ubiquitous “Groupon.”

The top ten areas home to the savviest shoppers in the UK

Oxford and Cambridge: The Least Savvy

In stark contrast, residents of Oxford and Cambridge were found to be the least engaged in seeking out online deals. Oxford, in particular, recorded just 1,125 searches a month for saving-related terms, equating to only 19.21 searches per 100,000 total searches—69% below the national average. Cambridge followed closely with 29.3 searches per 100,000, suggesting that residents in these historic university cities may feel less of a budget squeeze or prioritise time over savings.

Wider Implications

As the UK grapples with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the study sheds light on regional differences in consumer behaviour. While some areas, like Croydon, are taking proactive steps to maximise their purchasing power, others appear less inclined to seek out savings. Harrington noted, “While most of the UK is feeling the cost-of-living crisis, those living in Oxford and Cambridge are the least likely to search for coupons and deals online. It could be that those living in these cities are feeling less of a budget squeeze and would rather save their time over their money.”

The study offers a glimpse into the varying financial priorities across the UK, reflecting both the economic challenges faced by many and the different ways in which people are adapting to these pressures.

For more information, please visit https://bountii.coupons/.

The post Deal or No Deal: UK’s Most Money-Savvy Consumers appeared first on EMC UK.

The post 70% of employers use social media to research job candidates – here’s how to make yours corporate-approved appeared first on EMC UK.

The Customer Loyalty Index, developed by B2B Marketplace DesignRush, evaluates the biggest U.S. tech companies based on six equally weighted pillars: company finances, average rating and volume of reviews, Net Promoter Score (NPS) of reviews, social media following and engagement, the number of customer service-related Google searches, and YouGov popularity. Apple, securing the third spot, follows Alphabet (Google) and Intel.

The Battle for Customer Loyalty

The competition for customer loyalty among top tech brands is intense. Companies like Apple and Google have cultivated dedicated followings through extensive ecosystems and high-profile events, such as Apple’s anticipated iPhone 15 announcement. This makes it increasingly challenging for customers to switch allegiances.

The study reveals Alphabet as the leader in customer loyalty with a score of 71.9 out of 100. Alphabet’s (Google’s) dominance is attributed to high scores in reviews, NPS, social media, and YouGov popularity. Despite an average customer service rating, Google’s overall customer loyalty is reinforced by an average review rating of 3.1 stars and a NPS rating of 23, both the best among tech companies.

Intel’s Strong Performance

Intel ranks second with a customer loyalty score of 61.9. The company boasts one of the largest social media followings and generally positive reviews. However, Intel’s NPS of -8.33 and lower financial and popularity scores compared to other tech giants slightly detract from its overall ranking. Notably, Intel customers have some of the lowest volumes of customer service and complaint-related searches, indicating effective support channels.

Apple’s Position

Apple, with a score of 61.8, excels in finances and social media presence. It has the highest number of followers on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, and the most engaged audience with a social media engagement rate of 0.3%. The company also enjoys the second-best average review rating and the fourth-best NPS. However, Apple faces challenges in customer service, with over 1.2 million monthly searches related to support and complaints, the highest among all tech companies.

Microsoft and IBM

Microsoft ranks fourth with a score of 56.8, supported by its strong financial position and significant social media presence. However, its customer service, reviews, and NPS scores are below average, reflecting areas needing improvement.

IBM takes the fifth position with a score of 53.7. Despite a low volume of reviews, IBM has a relatively high NPS of -0.51. Its social media engagement rate is second only to Apple, and it enjoys low customer service and complaint-related search volumes, indicating effective customer service.

Meta and Other Companies

Meta, known for its vast social media following, ranks sixth with a score of 51.25. Despite having the highest number of reviews, Meta’s average rating is low, and it has a poor NPS. Its customer service scores also reflect significant room for improvement, with over 185,000 monthly support-related searches.

Cisco Systems places seventh with a score of 48.9, excelling in customer service but lagging in popularity and social media presence. Hewlett Packard (HP) and Dell Technologies occupy the eighth and ninth positions respectively. HP, with a score of 43.9, struggles with low financial and NPS scores, while Dell, scoring 43.7, has one of the lowest social media followings and financial ratings.

Insights from DesignRush

Gianluca Ferruggia, General Manager at DesignRush, commented on the findings: “The Customer Loyalty Index expands on the NPS system by considering additional data points such as social media presence and customer reviews. Our analysis indicates a correlation between customer loyalty, profit, and long-term success. Ensuring robust search engine optimisation is crucial for businesses to enhance customer engagement and retention.”

The study by DesignRush offers valuable insights for businesses aiming to understand and improve customer loyalty. By analysing the performance of top tech companies, the Customer Loyalty Index highlights the importance of balancing financial strength, social media presence, and effective customer service in cultivating loyal customer bases.

For more information, visit https://www.designrush.com/agency/search-engine-optimization.

The post Apple Ranks Third in Customer Loyalty Among Top Tech Giants appeared first on EMC UK.

The Complexity of Card Games

Card games are a popular pastime, enjoyed by people of all ages. However, some games are notorious for their complex rules and strategies. The new research highlights poker as the game that leaves most Brits scratching their heads. In poker, players aim to either have the best hand or convince their opponents that they do. Each player receives five private cards, participates in betting rounds, and can discard and draw new cards to improve their hand. The player with the highest-ranking hand at the end wins the pot.

The Top Three Most Confusing Games

Following poker, blackjack and Go Fish rank second and third in terms of confusion. Blackjack garners an average of 17,919 monthly searches. The goal is to have a hand value closest to 21 without exceeding it. Each player is dealt two cards, and they can choose to draw more or stick with their hand. The dealer also has two cards, one face-up. If a player’s hand exceeds 21, they lose. The player with a hand value closest to 21 wins.

Go Fish, with 14,828 monthly searches, is another game that confounds many. In this game, players aim to collect sets of four matching cards. Players ask opponents for specific cards to complete their sets. If the opponent has the card, they must hand it over; if not, the player must “go fish” and draw from the pile. The game continues until all sets are completed, and the player with the most sets wins.

Other Notable Mentions

Solitaire, a solo card game, ranks fourth with 12,405 monthly searches. The objective is to move all cards to four foundation piles, sorted by suit from Ace to King. Players deal themselves seven piles, each with progressively more cards, and can only move face-up cards between piles to build sequences. The game is won when all suits are built up from Ace to King.

Texas Hold ‘Em, a variation of poker, is fifth with 5,768 searches. Unlike traditional poker, players receive two private cards and use five community cards dealt face-up to make the best hand. Betting rounds occur before and after the community cards are revealed.

Gin Rummy, sixth with 5,387 searches, is a two-player game where the goal is to create sets of matching cards or runs in the same suit. Players draw and discard cards to form these sets, and the game ends when one player’s unmatched cards total 10 points or less.

Cribbage, seventh with 5,247 searches, is a classic two-player game where players score points by forming specific card combinations. Each player starts with six cards, selecting two for the “crib,” which the dealer scores. Players then play cards to create pairs, runs, and combinations totalling 15. Points are tallied using a cribbage board, and the first player to reach 121 points wins.

Bridge, with 3,769 searches, is a partnership game requiring strategy and communication. Players bid on how many tricks they expect to win, indicating their hand’s strength and preferred suits. The highest bid determines the trump suit or no trump at all. Players take turns playing cards, with the highest card in the led suit winning the trick unless trumped. Teams score points based on meeting their bid and additional bonuses.

Baccarat, ninth with 2,536 searches, is a game of luck where players bet on whether the player’s hand, the banker’s hand, or a tie will win. Hands receive two cards initially, with a possible third card depending on specific rules. The goal is to have a hand value closest to nine. Players don’t play the cards themselves but place bets on the outcome.

Canasta, tenth with 2,468 searches, is a team game where players aim to form melds of matching cards. Each player starts with a hand and draws cards to complete sets. The game continues until all cards are melded, and the team with the highest score wins.

Regional Variations

The city of Lincoln tops the list of locations searching for how to play card games, with 420 monthly searches per 100,000 people.

A Word from the Experts

A spokesperson from World of Card Games commented on the findings: “It is fascinating to see which card games the UK finds most confusing. Each game brings its own unique set of rules and complexities, making it challenging to learn new ones. Card games are a great way to bring people together, whether played casually with family or competitively among friends. They encourage communication, teamwork, and friendly competition, providing a great pastime for all ages.”

The spokesperson added, “Card games can also serve as an excellent mental workout, requiring focus, patience, and critical thinking. We hope this research inspires more people to try their hand at learning a new game.”

Conclusion

This research sheds light on the card games that puzzle the UK the most. From poker to Canasta, each game offers its own set of challenges and rewards, making them a beloved yet sometimes bewildering pastime. For more information, visit World of Card Games.

The post UK Baffled by Card Games: Poker #1 on the List of Confusing Classics appeared first on EMC UK.

The recommendations extend to preconception, suggesting that women planning to become pregnant should also avoid alcohol to minimize potential risks. However, evidence from large surveys reveals that not all women adhere to these guidelines, irrespective of whether the pregnancy is intentional or not.

Surprising findings from a 2017 US study involving 5,036 women showed that the prevalence of alcohol consumption before pregnancy was nearly identical for both intended (55%) and unintended pregnancies (56%). Similarly, a 2015 study in Sweden, encompassing 3,390 women, reported no significant difference in weekly alcohol consumption between those with “very planned” (11%) and “very unplanned” pregnancies (14%). Moreover, a 2013 survey of 258 Danish women unveiled that even in pregnancies labeled as “very” or “fairly well planned,” 20% admitted to binge drinking early in pregnancy.

While societal attention often fixates on a woman’s relationship with alcohol during pregnancy, emerging evidence highlights the crucial role of men’s alcohol use in determining the health of the baby. It appears that alcohol can influence sperm DNA, potentially impacting fertility and the ability to conceive.

The rationale behind recommending alcohol cessation before conception stems from research establishing clear links between the health of both men and women before pregnancy and the well-being of their offspring. Couples attempting to conceive are advised to quit alcohol at least six months before pregnancy to mitigate potential risks like congenital heart disease. Additionally, abstaining from alcohol before conception yields benefits for expectant parents, including improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, and enhanced concentration.

Intriguingly, research suggests that if a couple lives together and the male partner consumes alcohol, there is a higher likelihood that the woman will also drink alcohol before and during pregnancy. A study exploring this phenomenon revealed that drinking with a partner, whether before or during pregnancy, fosters a sense of social connection.

The preconception period is a vital window of opportunity for aspiring parents to enhance their health and increase the chances of successful conception. Alcohol consumption should be a focal point during this phase. A recent study delved into people’s and health professionals’ perspectives on information and support for reducing alcohol consumption before pregnancy. It discovered that while women are aware of the impact of lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking on pregnancy, there’s a conspicuous lack of awareness regarding the importance of men reducing their alcohol intake when planning for pregnancy.

Typically, men do not seek information about preconception health at clinics, as this responsibility usually falls on the woman. Although some indications suggest that men are open to altering their drinking behavior when planning for pregnancy, the literature review revealed a scarcity of studies exploring men’s or partners’ views on preconception health.

While interventions and approaches targeting preconception health in both men and women have shown promise, such as alcohol screening, counseling, and health education, there remains insufficient emphasis on men’s health during the preconception stage. This calls for a paradigm shift, as research consistently demonstrates that a baby’s health is shaped by the lifestyle choices of both parents.

For couples contemplating parenthood, now is an opportune moment for both partners to establish new goals and collectively reduce alcohol consumption. If concerns about alcohol consumption arise or if dependency is an issue, seeking professional advice and support for a safe reduction is paramount. In the intricate web of preconception health, both partners play pivotal roles, and addressing alcohol consumption collectively can significantly contribute to the well-being of the future child.

The post A Sobering Reality: The Role of Men’s Alcohol Consumption in Preconception Health appeared first on EMC UK.

The Houthi Rebels and Their Link to Hamas

The Houthi rebels, supported by Iran, constitute a militant group based in Yemen officially known as Ansar Allah. With an estimated 20,000 fighters, they represent the Zaidi branch of Shia Islam and exert control over most of northern Yemen. The group’s origins can be traced back to the 1980s when Saudi Arabia began imposing religious influence in Yemen, triggering opposition from the Houthis.

While not officially labeled as a foreign terrorist organization by either the US or the UK, the Houthis maintain a significant association with Iran and form an alliance with the Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Both groups are part of the Iranian-backed “axis of resistance,” contributing to a complex geopolitical landscape.

Yemen’s Internal Turmoil and Global Consequences

The Houthis garnered support within Yemen due to perceived corruption within the authoritarian regime, leading to a civil war in 2015. Saudi Arabia, with the support of the West, launched a retaliatory military campaign against the Houthis, resulting in a devastating conflict with an estimated 377,000 casualties by the end of 2021.

The Red Sea, a critical shipping channel, is now at the epicenter of the conflict. Disruptions caused by Houthi attacks on shipping routes, initiated during the Israel-Hamas war, have raised concerns about global trade and oil prices. The Red Sea, vital for Europe-to-Asia trade, has witnessed increased shipping costs, impacting economies worldwide.

The UK’s Role and Controversies

Acting as the “penholder” for Yemen at the UN Security Council, the UK provides aid to the war-torn country and supports peace talks between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia. However, the UK’s arms sales to Saudi Arabia have faced criticism for potential violations of international humanitarian law. Despite these concerns, the UK, aligned with Israel and the US, participated in the recent airstrikes against the Houthis.

Escalation and Global Response

The recent airstrikes targeted Houthi strongholds, resulting in casualties according to Houthi reports. Tensions had been escalating for months, with Houthi attacks on ships prompting the US to launch Operation Prosperity Guardian. On January 9, the UK and the US intercepted drones and missiles, marking the largest such attack in the region.

The international community’s response has been mixed. The Houthi rebels condemned the airstrikes as a “clear act of aggression,” vowing to retaliate. US President Joe Biden expressed his readiness to take further military action if needed, emphasizing the protection of people and international commerce. Rishi Sunak defended the strikes as “limited, necessary, and proportionate,” underscoring the principle of self-defense.

Several nations, including Australia, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea, endorsed the airstrikes in a joint statement. However, Iran criticized the attacks, asserting a violation of Yemen’s territorial integrity, while Iraq warned of the conflict expanding beyond Israel and Hamas. Russia, aligned with Iran, denounced the “illegitimate strikes” and called for an urgent UN Security Council meeting.

The situation remains dynamic, with heightened geopolitical tensions and growing concerns about the broader implications of the conflict around the Red Sea. As global leaders grapple with the evolving crisis, the imperative for diplomatic solutions and international cooperation becomes increasingly evident.

The post Escalation in Yemen: UK and US Airstrikes Intensify Tensions in the Red Sea appeared first on EMC UK.