Uncategorised Archives - Business Eye https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/ Leading the way for Business News Thu, 01 Oct 2026 10:14:54 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.4 https://e6dbb9i6yzo.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/cropped-android-chrome-512x512-1.png?strip=all&resize=32%2C32 Uncategorised Archives - Business Eye https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/ 32 32 Espresso We Care Campaign Returns To Support Local Charities https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/espresso-we-care-campaign-returns-to-support-local-charities/ Thu, 01 Oct 2026 10:14:53 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=42383 SuperValu, Centra and Mace stores across Northern Ireland are once again inviting customers to make a difference with every cup of coffee as the popular Espresso We Care campaign returns in support of Action Cancer and Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS). Running from Thursday 1 October to Sunday 4 October, coinciding with International […]

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SuperValu, Centra and Mace stores across Northern Ireland are once again inviting customers to make a difference with every cup of coffee as the popular Espresso We Care campaign returns in support of Action Cancer and Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS).

Running from Thursday 1 October to Sunday 4 October, coinciding with International Coffee Day, the initiative will see 50p from every Frank and Honest coffee sold in participating stores donated to the retailers’ charity partners.

Now in its sixth year, Espresso We Care has become a successful annual fundraising campaign, raising an impressive £127,000 since its launch. The funds support vital services delivered by Action Cancer and NICHS, helping thousands of people across Northern Ireland access life-saving health checks, screening services, care programmes and support.

Maurice Cusack, Head of Retail Marketing for SuperValu, Centra and Mace, said:

“Espresso We Care has become one of our most successful and engaging fundraising initiatives, and we’re incredibly proud that, together with our retail partners and customers, we’ve raised £127,000 for Action Cancer and Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke since the campaign launched.”

“Our retailers and store teams are passionate about supporting local communities, and this campaign gives customers a simple way to contribute while enjoying a great cup of coffee. Every Frank and Honest coffee purchased helps fund essential services that make a real difference to people and families across Northern Ireland.”

SuperValu and Centra have partnered with Action Cancer since 2001 and have raised more than £4.25 million to support the charity’s life-saving services across Northern Ireland. Funds raised through Espresso We Care help keep Action Cancer’s Big Bus mobile clinic on the road, delivering breast screening, health checks and skin cancer detection services within local communities.

Mace has partnered with Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke since 2016 and has raised more than £470,000 to support the charity’s work. Funds raised help NICHS deliver care services, prevention programmes and research initiatives that improve the lives of people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions across Northern Ireland.

Starting at £3.00 for a Frank and Honest coffee, 50p from the sale of each coffee will be donated to the charities over the four-day period.

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Sports Pro Travel Renews Partnership With Belfast Giants https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/sports-pro-travel-renews-partnership-with-belfast-giants/ Wed, 16 Sep 2026 11:48:00 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=42121 Sports Pro Travel has confirmed a fifth straight season working with the Belfast Giants, keeping the specialist travel management company on as the club’s official travel partner heading into the 2026/27 season. Under the agreement, Sports Pro Travel will again handle the travel logistics behind the Belfast Giants’ fixture list, covering everything from flights and […]

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Sports Pro Travel has confirmed a fifth straight season working with the Belfast Giants, keeping the specialist travel management company on as the club’s official travel partner heading into the 2026/27 season.

Under the agreement, Sports Pro Travel will again handle the travel logistics behind the Belfast Giants’ fixture list, covering everything from flights and ground transport to accommodation, as the reigning back-to-back champions push for a third Motorpoint Elite Ice Hockey League title in a row.

The two organisations have now worked together for four full seasons, a run that Sports Pro Travel says reflects how embedded it has become in the day-to-day running of the club’s travel needs.

Sports Pro Travel’s client roster extends well beyond ice hockey. The company also looks after travel for the Ireland hockey, cricket and rowing teams, and the Nottingham Panthers to name a few.

John Boyde, who leads Sports Pro Travel as Managing Director, commented on the partnership renewal:

“Four seasons in, we understand exactly what this team needs from us, right down to the small details that make a long road trip easier on players and staff. That’s what this renewal is about, carrying that knowledge into another title-winning campaign.”

Steve Thornton, Sports Director at The Odyssey Trust, added: “We’re proud to welcome Sports Pro Travel back as the club’s official travel partner. Travel is a hugely important part of what we do throughout the season, and having an experienced and trusted partner alongside us makes a real difference to the team.

“Sports Pro Travel understand the demands of professional sport and the importance of making sure our players and staff can focus on performing at their best. We’re really pleased to continue our relationship and look forward to working closely with the team at Sports Pro Travel throughout the season.”

Additionally, Sports Entertainment Tours, Sports Pro Travel’s sister company, the leading provider of travel and hospitality across all sports and entertainment experiences, has also agreed to remain a sponsor of the Belfast Giants for the coming season.

The renewed sponsorship sits alongside Sports Entertainment Tours’ existing work with Belfast Giants’ supporters, for whom it builds dedicated travel packages and hospitality experiences around away games and other fixtures.

John Boyde, who also holds the Managing Director role at Sports Entertainment Tours, added, “Sponsoring the Belfast Giants means something different to us than the Belfast Giants team travel. As a Belfast-born business, we take real pride in what the Belfast Giants have achieved and what they mean to this city. We’re sports enthusiasts ourselves, and standing behind a team bringing this level of success and pride to Belfast is something we’re genuinely proud to be part of for another season.”

Steve Thornton, Sports Director at The Odyssey Trust, commented: “It’s fantastic to have Sports Entertainment Tours back on board with the Giants for another season. Their passion for creating memorable sporting experiences makes them a really natural fit for the club, and it’s great to continue building that relationship alongside our wider partnership with Sports Pro Travel.”

Further details on Sports Pro Travel are available at sportsprotravel.com. Details on Sports Entertainment Tours can be found at sportsentertainmenttours.com.

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Lidl Northern Ireland Launches Over 30 New Artisanal Products In Store https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/lidl-northern-ireland-launches-over-30-new-artisanal-products-in-store/ Wed, 26 Aug 2026 10:52:21 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=41708 The ​very ​best ​of ​locally-made ​artisanal ​produce ​has ​been ​handpicked ​by ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland ​to ​feature ​in ​the ​retailer’s ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​Programme. Promising ​shoppers ​a ​real ​taste ​of ​home, ​the ​Kickstart ​class ​of ​2026, ​which ​includes ​30 ​new ​products ​from ​more ​than ​16 ​local ​producers ​hits ​the ​shelves ​of ​Lidl ​stores ​throughout ​the ​region ​from ​Thursday ​10 ​September. This ​year’s ​line-up ​includes ​fourth-generation ​Co ​Armagh ​apple ​growers ​McAlister’s ​Apples, ​which ​has ​expanded ​into ​canned ​still ​and ​sparkling ​premium ​pressed ​apple ​juice ​with ​Juist; ​Nugelato, ​whose ​family ​ice ​cream ​roots ​in ​Newcastle ​date ​back ​almost ​100 ​years; ​Belfast-based ​Fibre ​Up, ​a ​sparkling ​drink ​that ​offers ​50% ​of ​your ​daily ​fibre ​intake ​and ​made ​with ​natural ​ingredients; ​Derry-based ​Whoosh, ​which ​grew ​from ​Thai ​and ​Vietnamese ​catering ​into ​a ​range ​of ​gluten ​free ​rice ​noodle ​pots; ​Jawbox ​Gin, ​a ​Co ​Down ​spirits ​brand ​inspired ​by ​Belfast’s ​industrial ​character ​and ​distilled ​on ​a ​300-acre ​estate; ​and ​Kennedy ​Bacon ​from ​Co ​Tyrone, ​bringing ​Smashed ​Bacon ​Grills ​Burgers ​to ​shoppers.  Since ​launching ​in ​2018, ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​programme, ​supported ​by ​Northern ​Ireland ​Food & Drink ​Association ​(NIFDA), ​has ​invested ​more ​than ​£4 ​million ​in ​the ​initiative, ​supporting ​more ​than ​60 ​Northern ​Irish ​agri-food ​businesses ​and ​showcased ​more ​than ​80 ​home-grown products ​to ​half ​a ​million ​weekly ​customers ​across ​the ​region.  Many ​previous ​participants ​have ​gone ​on ​to ​secure ​full ​permanent ​listings ​in ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland, ​including Holmes ​Bakery in ​Portadown, ​which ​continues ​to ​supply ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland ​stores ​with ​their ​range ​of ​traybakes; ​caramel ​fingers, ​sweet ​mince ​slices ​and ​fifteens. Kickstart ​also ​continues ​to ​open ​doors ​internationally, ​with ​many ​alumni ​going ​on ​to ​export ​their ​products ​through ​Lidl’s ​extensive ​global ​network ​across ​Europe, ​the ​UK ​and ​the ​USA, ​including Hellbent, ​the ​South ​African-inspired ​food ​brand ​co-founded ​by ​Ulster ​rugby ​players ​Louis ​Ludik ​and ​Schalk ​van ​der ​Merwe, ​expanding ​into ​800 ​Lidl ​stores ​across ​the ​UK ​and ​Ireland.  Beyond ​in-store ​exposure, ​the ​Kickstart ​suppliers ​have ​benefited ​from ​a ​six-month ​development ​programme ​delivered ​by ​industry ​experts ​which ​covers ​key ​disciplines ​such ​as ​quality ​control, ​supply ​chain ​management, ​branding ​and ​distribution, ​ensuring ​their ​products ​are ​retail ​ready ​in ​time ​to ​hit ​the ​shelves. The ​Kickstart ​Class ​of ​2026 ​reflects ​the ​pace, ​creativity ​and ​commercial ​drive ​across ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​food ​and ​drink ​sector. ​From ​functional ​drinks ​and ​premium ​coffee ​to ​chilled ​desserts, ​meat ​products, ​sauces ​and ​ready-to-cook ​meal ​solutions, ​the ​2026 ​cohort ​brings ​together ​products ​designed ​for ​today’s ​shopper: ​convenient, ​local ​and ​full ​of ​flavour. Speaking ​ahead ​of ​the ​range ​landing ​in ​Lidl ​stores Kevin ​Duffy, ​Chief ​Commercial ​Officer ​at ​Lidl ​Ireland & Northern ​Ireland, ​said: “Since ​launching ​in ​2018, ​Kickstart ​continues ​to ​showcase ​the ​quality ​coming ​out ​of ​the ​local ​agri-food ​sector ​in ​Northern ​Ireland. ​Our ​customers ​have ​a ​huge ​appetite ​for ​locally ​made ​produce, ​and ​this ​programme ​allows ​us ​to ​bring ​the ​very ​best ​in ​the ​region ​directly ​to ​our ​shelves. For ​Our ​Kickstart ​suppliers, ​this ​is ​a ​very ​exciting ​time. ​Each ​of ​them ​have ​spent ​the ​last ​six-months ​working ​closely ​with ​our ​in-house ​team ​to ​get ​their ​products ​retail-ready ​and ​they ​now ​get ​to ​see ​them ​placed ​on ​the ​shelves ​in ​all ​Lidl ​stores ​across ​the ​region.  With ​more ​than ​30 ​new ​Northern ​Irish ​products ​in ​stores ​from ​Thursday ​10th ​September, ​we ​would ​encourage ​all ​customers ​to ​visit ​stores ​and ​support ​your ​local ​producers.” Michael ​Bell ​OBE, ​Executive ​Director ​at ​NIFDA, ​said: “NIFDA ​has ​been ​a ​proud ​supporter ​of ​Lidl’s ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​Programme ​for ​many ​years ​as ​it ​gives ​small ​businesses ​unmatched ​access ​to ​expert ​retail ​guidance, ​direct ​customer ​exposure ​and ​the ​chance ​to ​see ​their ​products ​on ​the ​shelves ​of ​Lidl’s ​44 ​stores ​in ​the ​region. “This ​year’s ​cohort ​showcases ​the ​very ​best ​of ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​agri-food ​and ​drink ​sector ​and ​we ​look ​forward ​to ​seeing ​them ​in-store ​from ​10th ​September.” The ​Kickstart ​programme ​remains ​a ​key ​part ​of ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​commitment ​to ​local ​sourcing, ​quality ​Northern ​Irish ​products ​and ​the ​long-term ​success ​of ​the ​agri-food ​industry. The ​Lidl ​Kickstart ​Class ​of ​2026 ​will ​be ​available ​in ​all ​44 ​Lidl ​stores ​across ​the ​island ​of ​Ireland ​from ​Thursday ​10 ​September, ​for ​a ​two-week ​promotional ​period, ​while ​stocks ​last. For ​more ​information ​on ​the ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​Programme, ​visit: ​www.lidl-ni.co.uk/c/kickstart/s10026058.

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The ​very ​best ​of ​locally-made ​artisanal ​produce ​has ​been ​handpicked ​by ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland ​to ​feature ​in ​the ​retailer’s ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​Programme.

Promising ​shoppers ​a ​real ​taste ​of ​home, ​the ​Kickstart ​class ​of ​2026, ​which ​includes ​30 ​new ​products ​from ​more ​than ​16 ​local ​producers ​hits ​the ​shelves ​of ​Lidl ​stores ​throughout ​the ​region ​from ​Thursday ​10 ​September.

This ​year’s ​line-up ​includes ​fourth-generation ​Co ​Armagh ​apple ​growers ​McAlister’s ​Apples, ​which ​has ​expanded ​into ​canned ​still ​and ​sparkling ​premium ​pressed ​apple ​juice ​with ​Juist; ​Nugelato, ​whose ​family ​ice ​cream ​roots ​in ​Newcastle ​date ​back ​almost ​100 ​years; ​Belfast-based ​Fibre ​Up, ​a ​sparkling ​drink ​that ​offers ​50% ​of ​your ​daily ​fibre ​intake ​and ​made ​with ​natural ​ingredients; ​Derry-based ​Whoosh, ​which ​grew ​from ​Thai ​and ​Vietnamese ​catering ​into ​a ​range ​of ​gluten ​free ​rice ​noodle ​pots; ​Jawbox ​Gin, ​a ​Co ​Down ​spirits ​brand ​inspired ​by ​Belfast’s ​industrial ​character ​and ​distilled ​on ​a ​300-acre ​estate; ​and ​Kennedy ​Bacon ​from ​Co ​Tyrone, ​bringing ​Smashed ​Bacon ​Grills ​Burgers ​to ​shoppers. 

Since ​launching ​in ​2018, ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​programme, ​supported ​by ​Northern ​Ireland ​Food & Drink ​Association ​(NIFDA), ​has ​invested ​more ​than ​£4 ​million ​in ​the ​initiative, ​supporting ​more ​than ​60 ​Northern ​Irish ​agri-food ​businesses ​and ​showcased ​more ​than ​80 ​home-grown products ​to ​half ​a ​million ​weekly ​customers ​across ​the ​region. 

Many ​previous ​participants ​have ​gone ​on ​to ​secure ​full ​permanent ​listings ​in ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland, ​including Holmes ​Bakery in ​Portadown, ​which ​continues ​to ​supply ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland ​stores ​with ​their ​range ​of ​traybakes; ​caramel ​fingers, ​sweet ​mince ​slices ​and ​fifteens.

Kickstart ​also ​continues ​to ​open ​doors ​internationally, ​with ​many ​alumni ​going ​on ​to ​export ​their ​products ​through ​Lidl’s ​extensive ​global ​network ​across ​Europe, ​the ​UK ​and ​the ​USA, ​including Hellbent, ​the ​South ​African-inspired ​food ​brand ​co-founded ​by ​Ulster ​rugby ​players ​Louis ​Ludik ​and ​Schalk ​van ​der ​Merwe, ​expanding ​into ​800 ​Lidl ​stores ​across ​the ​UK ​and ​Ireland. 

Beyond ​in-store ​exposure, ​the ​Kickstart ​suppliers ​have ​benefited ​from ​a ​six-month ​development ​programme ​delivered ​by ​industry ​experts ​which ​covers ​key ​disciplines ​such ​as ​quality ​control, ​supply ​chain ​management, ​branding ​and ​distribution, ​ensuring ​their ​products ​are ​retail ​ready ​in ​time ​to ​hit ​the ​shelves.

The ​Kickstart ​Class ​of ​2026 ​reflects ​the ​pace, ​creativity ​and ​commercial ​drive ​across ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​food ​and ​drink ​sector. ​From ​functional ​drinks ​and ​premium ​coffee ​to ​chilled ​desserts, ​meat ​products, ​sauces ​and ​ready-to-cook ​meal ​solutions, ​the ​2026 ​cohort ​brings ​together ​products ​designed ​for ​today’s ​shopper: ​convenient, ​local ​and ​full ​of ​flavour.

Speaking ​ahead ​of ​the ​range ​landing ​in ​Lidl ​stores Kevin ​Duffy, ​Chief ​Commercial ​Officer ​at ​Lidl ​Ireland & Northern ​Ireland, ​said:

“Since ​launching ​in ​2018, ​Kickstart ​continues ​to ​showcase ​the ​quality ​coming ​out ​of ​the ​local ​agri-food ​sector ​in ​Northern ​Ireland. ​Our ​customers ​have ​a ​huge ​appetite ​for ​locally ​made ​produce, ​and ​this ​programme ​allows ​us ​to ​bring ​the ​very ​best ​in ​the ​region ​directly ​to ​our ​shelves.

For ​Our ​Kickstart ​suppliers, ​this ​is ​a ​very ​exciting ​time. ​Each ​of ​them ​have ​spent ​the ​last ​six-months ​working ​closely ​with ​our ​in-house ​team ​to ​get ​their ​products ​retail-ready ​and ​they ​now ​get ​to ​see ​them ​placed ​on ​the ​shelves ​in ​all ​Lidl ​stores ​across ​the ​region. 

With ​more ​than ​30 ​new ​Northern ​Irish ​products ​in ​stores ​from ​Thursday ​10th ​September, ​we ​would ​encourage ​all ​customers ​to ​visit ​stores ​and ​support ​your ​local ​producers.”

Michael ​Bell ​OBE, ​Executive ​Director ​at ​NIFDA, ​said:

“NIFDA ​has ​been ​a ​proud ​supporter ​of ​Lidl’s ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​Programme ​for ​many ​years ​as ​it ​gives ​small ​businesses ​unmatched ​access ​to ​expert ​retail ​guidance, ​direct ​customer ​exposure ​and ​the ​chance ​to ​see ​their ​products ​on ​the ​shelves ​of ​Lidl’s ​44 ​stores ​in ​the ​region.

“This ​year’s ​cohort ​showcases ​the ​very ​best ​of ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​agri-food ​and ​drink ​sector ​and ​we ​look ​forward ​to ​seeing ​them ​in-store ​from ​10th ​September.”

The ​Kickstart ​programme ​remains ​a ​key ​part ​of ​Lidl ​Northern ​Ireland’s ​commitment ​to ​local ​sourcing, ​quality ​Northern ​Irish ​products ​and ​the ​long-term ​success ​of ​the ​agri-food ​industry.

The ​Lidl ​Kickstart ​Class ​of ​2026 ​will ​be ​available ​in ​all ​44 ​Lidl ​stores ​across ​the ​island ​of ​Ireland ​from ​Thursday ​10 ​September, ​for ​a ​two-week ​promotional ​period, ​while ​stocks ​last.

For ​more ​information ​on ​the ​Kickstart ​Supplier ​Development ​Programme, ​visit: ​www.lidl-ni.co.uk/c/kickstart/s10026058.

The post Lidl Northern Ireland Launches Over 30 New Artisanal Products In Store appeared first on Business Eye.

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BYD Dolphin G arrives with plug-in hybrid power https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/byd-dolphin-g-arrives-with-plug-in-hybrid-power/ Mon, 27 Jul 2026 15:46:26 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=41269 By James Stinson BYD is no stranger to shaking up the car market, and its latest UK launch could be one of its boldest moves yet. The new Dolphin G DM-i arrives as the only supermini on sale with plug-in hybrid technology, bringing a combination of electric driving and long-distance flexibility that remains almost unheard […]

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By James Stinson

BYD is no stranger to shaking up the car market, and its latest UK launch could be one of its boldest moves yet. The new Dolphin G DM-i arrives as the only supermini on sale with plug-in hybrid technology, bringing a combination of electric driving and long-distance flexibility that remains almost unheard of in this class.

While most manufacturers have focused on either conventional petrol power or fully electric drivetrains for their smallest cars, BYD is trying something different. In many ways, the Dolphin G is another example of a Chinese car maker blazing a trail into territory that more established rivals have largely ignored.

A hybrid with genuine electric range

The Dolphin G uses BYD’s Super Hybrid DM technology, pairing a petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack. Buyers can choose from two versions.

Entry-level Active models feature a 7.4kWh Blade Battery and produce 174bhp. They offer up to 24.8 miles of electric-only driving, a combined range of 633 miles and a claimed weighted fuel economy figure of 108.6mpg.

The step up Boost trim is where things become particularly interesting. It gains a much larger 18.3kWh battery, increasing electric-only range to a claimed 65 miles. Total output rises to 209bhp, while fuel economy improves dramatically to a claimed 201.7mpg. Combined driving range also climbs to 646 miles.

For many commuters, 65 miles of electric range could be enough to complete daily journeys without using a drop of petrol, while the engine provides reassurance for longer motorway trips.

Strong equipment levels from the outset

One area where Chinese brands continue to impress is standard equipment, and the Dolphin G appears no exception.

Even the entry-level Active comes well equipped with LED headlights, heated and electrically adjustable mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, automatic air conditioning, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety kit includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, traffic sign recognition and front and rear parking sensors.

The Active also features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, rear-view camera, fabric upholstery and four-speaker audio system. That’s a generous specification considering its starting price.

Moving up the range, the Boost adds heated front seats, privacy glass, wireless phone charging, a larger 12.8-inch touchscreen, ambient lighting and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.

The Comfort model introduces a 360-degree camera, electric driver’s seat adjustment, larger 18-inch alloy wheels and Google built-in services, including Google Maps and Google Assistant.

Topping the line-up is the Sport, which brings black alloy wheels, artificial suede upholstery and unique interior and exterior styling details.

Practicality matters

Despite its compact dimensions, the Dolphin G offers a class-leading 425-litre boot. That figure compares favourably with many larger hatchbacks and should make the car attractive to small families as well as private buyers looking for maximum practicality.

Can it challenge established rivals?

The Dolphin G faces competition from popular superminis such as the Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris, while buyers considering electrification may also look at EVs such as the Renault 5, Nissan Micra EV and Hyundai Inster.

Its biggest advantage is uniqueness. There simply isn’t another plug-in hybrid supermini available in the UK offering up to 65 miles of electric range. However, some buyers may still prefer the simplicity of a full EV or a cheaper conventional hybrid.

Prices and availability

The BYD Dolphin G DM-i is available to order now, with first UK deliveries expected in September.

Prices start at £23,990 for the Active, rising to £26,990 for the Boost, £28,490 for the Comfort and £29,490 for the range-topping Sport.

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Solmatix Renewables Names Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke As Charity Partner  https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/solmatix-renewables-names-northern-ireland-chest-heart-stroke-as-charity-partner/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:08:39 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=40681 Solmatix Renewables has announced Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) as its official charity partner, marking the beginning of a new fundraising partnership with one of the region’s longest established and most impactful health charities. The partnership will see the Solmatix team support NICHS through a programme of fundraising and awareness activity over the […]

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Solmatix Renewables has announced Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) as its official charity partner, marking the beginning of a new fundraising partnership with one of the region’s longest established and most impactful health charities.

The partnership will see the Solmatix team support NICHS through a programme of fundraising and awareness activity over the coming year, helping raise vital funds for local people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions.

The announcement comes during a landmark year for the charity as it celebrates its 80th anniversary, having supported people and families across Northern Ireland since 1946.

As Northern Ireland’s leading local health charity, NICHS provides expert care and support to people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions, while also working to prevent illness, fund local research and campaign for better outcomes for patients and families across the region.

Neville Bell, Managing Director of Solmatix Renewables, said the partnership was one that carried both professional and personal importance.

“Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke is a charity that means a great deal to me personally, which made this a very important decision for us as a business.

Like many people across Northern Ireland, my family has seen first-hand the impact that chest, heart and stroke conditions can have on individuals and the people around them. The support the charity provides to local families is invaluable, and we are proud to be able to play a small part in helping that work continue.

At Solmatix, we have always believed in backing causes that make a genuine difference in our communities. As a Northern Ireland business, it is important to us that our fundraising efforts support people close to home, and Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke does exactly that.

To be able to support the charity in its 80th anniversary year makes the partnership even more meaningful, and we are looking forward to getting behind a number of fundraising initiatives over the months ahead.”

Eamonn Baker, Corporate Fundraiser at Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke, welcomed the partnership.

“We’re delighted to have been selected as Solmatix Renewables’ Charity of the Year and look forward to working with the team to raise awareness and vital funds for people affected by chest, heart, and stroke conditions.

Chest, heart and stroke conditions and illnesses account for 38% of all deaths in Northern Ireland, compared to 27% caused by cancer¹. Many people will find this fact surprising. Today, 40% of our adult population are living with a chest, heart or stroke condition or illness –  approximately 600,000 adults². This is why the work of our charity is so vital.

Almost 90% of our income comes from public donations however, making fundraising efforts like Solmatix’s critical. Without this support we would be unable to provide life-changing care and support services, fund groundbreaking research and work with schools, communities and workplaces to help prevent future chest, heart and stroke illnesses. We are very grateful to have Solmatix’s support throughout 2026, as we mark our 80th anniversary year.”

The new partnership reflects Solmatix’s wider commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates, alongside its work helping homes, businesses and public sector organisations across the UK and Ireland reduce energy costs and carbon emissions through renewable energy solutions.

Over the next year, the Solmatix team will take part in a range of fundraising initiatives in support of Chest, Heart & Stroke, with more details to be announced in the coming months.

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Danske Bank Announces Opening Date For New Lisburn Branch https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/danske-bank-announces-opening-date-for-new-lisburn-branch/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:11:14 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=38825 Danske Bank has confirmed that its new Lisburn branch, located at Bow Street Mall, will officially open at 9.30am on 20 April 2026. To accommodate the relocation, the current branch will close permanently at 1pm on Friday 17 April 2026. Announced in September the new branch, which is just a few doors up from the current […]

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Danske Bank has confirmed that its new Lisburn branch, located at Bow Street Mall, will officially open at 9.30am on 20 April 2026.

To accommodate the relocation, the current branch will close permanently at 1pm on Friday 17 April 2026.

Announced in September the new branch, which is just a few doors up from the current branch, will have a welcoming and modern design with a range of self-service options for customers to complete their banking.

Branch Manager Andy Donaldson said:

“Our new branch in Lisburn is progressing well, and we look forward to welcoming our customers and the local community to this exciting new space in Bow Street Mall. This relocation highlights Danske Bank’s commitment to supporting the wider Lisburn area by offering a modern banking environment equipped with enhanced self-service facilities for both customers and colleagues. Our team will be on hand to assist with banking needs and ensure everyone feels comfortable in the new branch.”

From Monday 20 April, the branch will be open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3pm.

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Rory Best Takes On Third Walking Challenge In Aid Of Cancer Fund For Children https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/rory-best-takes-on-third-walking-challenge-in-aid-of-cancer-fund-for-children/ Thu, 05 Feb 2026 13:15:32 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=37927 From 12th – 20th September, Rory Best will captain a team of business leaders on a powerful journey – to walk 9 marathons in 9 days, covering over 235 miles throughout Ireland. Each participant will walk around 50,000 steps daily across Derry/Londonderry, Belfast, Dublin, Kildare, Carlow, Cork, Limerick, Galway before finishing in Cong, Co. Mayo. This is […]

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From 12th – 20th September, Rory Best will captain a team of business leaders on a powerful journey – to walk 9 marathons in 9 days, covering over 235 miles throughout Ireland. Each participant will walk around 50,000 steps daily across Derry/Londonderry, Belfast, Dublin, Kildare, Carlow, Cork, Limerick, Galway before finishing in Cong, Co. Mayo.

This is the third chapter in a trilogy of fundraising walks created by the former Ireland and Ulster Rugby Captain for Cancer Fund for Children, a charity that provides emotional, social and therapeutic support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer.

Speaking on this challenge, Rory said:

“Every Rory’s Miles to Mayo challenge has been incredibly special and humbling, inspired by Cancer Fund for Children’s ambition to build a second therapeutic short break centre called Daisy Lodge, on the shores of Lough Corrib in Cong, Co. Mayo. Across the last 5 years I have seen this vision come to life, and this year’s challenge carries even more weight as Daisy Lodge is currently being built and is set to open in Spring 2027. I’ve been privileged to turn the sod on this site and to see it go from an empty space full of potential to a working construction site and finally, a safe space for families, has been so amazing.

I can’t wait to finish my walk there once again, this time, with a team of inspirational business leaders by my side.”

In 2021, Rory completed his first Rory’s Miles to Mayo challenge, walking 180 miles from Cancer Fund for Children’s first Daisy Lodge in Newcastle, Co. Down to the site of their second centre in Cong, Co. Mayo, raising over €1 million. The second Rory’s Miles 2 Mayo challenge in 2023, saw Rory walking 220 miles from Dublin’s Aviva Stadium to Cong, raising €1.5million, breaking ground on the new Daisy Lodge on arrival.

In 2025, Rory’s mantle was taken up by a team of business leaders who took on the 26 Mountains to Mayo challenge, climbing the highest peak in every county across the island of Ireland. Together they raised over £1.5/€1.8 million.

This year, both campaigns will come together for Rory’s Miles to Mayo – The Trilogy.

Speaking on this, 26 Mountains 2 Mayo challenge organiser, Roger Johnston said:

“After joining Rory on his walk in 2023, myself and several other business leaders were inspired to create 26 Mountains to Mayo and seeing the impact that had on families experiencing cancer has motivated us to keep going, this time by partnering with Rory on a full Miles to Mayo walk. The work of this charity is truly special. I have met some incredible families throughout my fundraising journey, and I hope we can all do them proud again as we tackle the challenge of a lifetime this September.”

Each participant has made a commitment to raise a minimum of £/€50,000 to go towards Cancer Fund for Children’s vital services. Their efforts are being bolstered by Arachas, Ireland’s largest nationwide insurance broker and part of the Ardonagh Group, who have come on board as a headline sponsor after supporting all three prior challenges.

Speaking on this support, Julie Galbraith, Chief Business Officer at Arachas said:

“Arachas has been a supporter of Rory’s Miles to Mayo since the beginning and will again be an integral partner in 2026. We are not just partners financially, having raised over €1m ourselves in 2025, but our 750 plus employees at 14 offices around the country have supported the initiative by taking to the roads and mountains of Ireland. Our business is based on supporting local people with local initiatives and we are excited that Daisy Lodge will soon be operational and able to support families throughout the country.

We are looking forward to bringing our teams together once again this September for this year’s marathon challenge.”

If you’re a business leader who is interested in taking on this challenge, there’s still time to join the team! Sign up today on https://cancerfundforchildren.com/event/rorys-miles-to-mayo-the-trilogy/.

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Primark Opens New £5 Million Ballymena Store https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/primark-opens-new-5-million-ballymena-store/ Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:24:08 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=37076 Primark has opened the doors of its brand-new Ballymena store at Fairhill Shopping Centre.  To mark the occasion, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Jackson Minford, joined the store team to officially cut the ribbon of the new Primark Ballymena alongside colleagues. The newly relocated store represents a significant £5 million investment, […]

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Primark has opened the doors of its brand-new Ballymena store at Fairhill Shopping Centre.  To mark the occasion, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Jackson Minford, joined the store team to officially cut the ribbon of the new Primark Ballymena alongside colleagues. The newly relocated store represents a significant £5 million investment, reinforcing Primark’s long-term commitment to Ballymena and the surrounding area.

The move marks an exciting new chapter for Primark Ballymena, which first opened in the town in 1983 in the Tower Centre. Relocating less than a mile from its original home, the new store at Fairhill spans 26,200 sq. ft of retail space across one floor, doubling the size of the previous store. Shoppers can expect a fresh, modern layout in a bigger and better store, with new features including self-checkouts, modern fixtures and fittings, improved signage and LED lighting, as well as new display units to better showcase Primark’s great value fashion and essentials. 

The new Primark Ballymena store will employ 150 people in total, with approximately 70 new jobs created to support the bigger store, providing a welcome boost to the local economy in the run up to the busy Christmas retail period. Across Northern Ireland, Primark employs 1,400 colleagues in its 10 stores. Primark Ballymena has many long-standing colleagues, including Pearl, Prudence, and Lynne, who have worked in the store for over 40 years. 

With the new doors opening just in time for the Christmas season, customers can shop a wide range of festive must-haves, including statement party outfits, stylish décor to dress their homes, and plenty of gift ideas for loved ones. 

Fintan Costello, Head of Primark Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “Opening our new Ballymena store is a special moment for our whole team, especially the long-standing colleagues who have served our customers here for so many years. We’re delighted to offer customers a bigger and better store with more of the great value fashion and everyday essentials they love. This £5 million store investment is an important boost for the local community, and we look forward to welcoming customers through the doors and helping them do all their Christmas shopping. We remain committed to Northern Ireland and are continually improving our store network to ensure our customers enjoy the very best of Primark every time they visit.”

Ryan Walker, Owner of the Fairhill shopping centre, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Primark to its new location here at Fairhill. This investment is a major boost for Ballymena and a proud moment for Fairhill as we look towards a vibrant future. Primark’s new store strengthens our retail offering, creates valuable local jobs, and brings a fresh sense of excitement just in time for Christmas. We’re thrilled to see this next chapter begin and look forward to welcoming even more shoppers through the doors of Fairhill. From myself and all of the team at Fairhill, Merry Christmas.”

Primark Ballymena’s relocation is the latest milestone in the retailer’s investment across Northern Ireland, where it now operates 10 stores including Belfast, Craigavon, Derry~Londonderry, Lisburn, Newtownabbey, Newtownards, Newry, and Omagh. Earlier this year, Primark launched Primark Home in Belfast, its first-ever standalone homeware store and a world-first for the brand.

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Young Athletes Receive Funding Awards From Mary Peters Trust https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/young-athletes-receive-funding-awards-from-mary-peters-trust/ Wed, 22 Oct 2025 09:26:17 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=36048 Almost 170 young athletes from across Northern Ireland representing 32 different sports, from tennis, judo, swimming and hockey to athletics, sailing and squash have received funding awards from the Mary Peters Trust in 2025. Their achievements were celebrated at a special Athletes’ Academy event held at Belfast Harbour Commissioners. The reception, which also marked the […]

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Almost 170 young athletes from across Northern Ireland representing 32 different sports, from tennis, judo, swimming and hockey to athletics, sailing and squash have received funding awards from the Mary Peters Trust in 2025. Their achievements were celebrated at a special Athletes’ Academy event held at Belfast Harbour Commissioners.

The reception, which also marked the Trust’s 50th anniversary, featured a Q&A chat with former Irish international tennis player Conor Niland who was interviewed by tennis coach Jim Watt, alongside presentations by Swim Ulster’s Mark Stoops, BBC presenter and journalist Claire McCollum and digital creator and coach Louise Brogan.

Athletes are nominated and then selected following a rigorous process and each receive financial and general support to help them navigate and succeed in their sporting careers and ultimately achieve their individual goals.

The current tranche of awards was presented by Lady Mary Peters and athletes were joined by parents and family members as well as sport liaison officers, MPT Board Directors and Awards Team Chair, Will Doggart as well as Eric Rainey, Trustee with the King George VI Youth Awards. 

The athletes event also celebrated a third year of the David Magill Coaching Awards. Set up by The Magill Family alongside the Mary Peters Trust, this programme was established in memory of Belfast pole-vaulter, businessman and hotelier David Magill.

These coach specific funding awards enable young sports people to move forward in their sporting career and embark on relevant coaching courses to help other up and coming athletes.

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New Grade A Metro Office Launched in Belfast City Centre https://www.businesseye.co.uk/uncategorised/new-grade-a-metro-office-launched-in-belfast-city-centre/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:05:00 +0000 https://www.businesseye.co.uk/?p=31407 Premium, flexible workspace provider, Metro Office has officially launched Belfast’s newest Grade A serviced office, located in the heart of the city centre. With panoramic views over City Hall and beyond, Metro Office’s new multi-million pound building totals 22,000sq ft, with 70 office spaces and 270 desks now available on both long- and short-term contracts.  […]

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Premium, flexible workspace provider, Metro Office has officially launched Belfast’s newest Grade A serviced office, located in the heart of the city centre.

With panoramic views over City Hall and beyond, Metro Office’s new multi-million pound building totals 22,000sq ft, with 70 office spaces and 270 desks now available on both long- and short-term contracts. 

As the demand for bespoke business workspace solutions across Belfast continues to rise in a hybrid-working world, flexible leasing options continue to prevail as the preferred option for companies of all sizes, from start-ups to established firms. Costed on a per desk, per month membership, Metro Office allows businesses to flex their requirements up or down, depending on needs.

The building features timeless contemporary design by the talented designer and interior architect Timothy Lee. With the double-glazed acoustic offices boasting floor to ceiling glass walls, members will be treated with hours of natural light and views of the bustling city and its landscapes.

Metro Office has fully furnished, high-spec offices and meeting rooms with extensive break-out areas on each floor for meetings and calls, as well as a large lobby with a concierge reception and features a kitchen on each floor.

Offering high quality technology, Metro Office includes high speed Wi-Fi with dedicated bandwidth, sit-stand desks and ergonomic chairs, integrated conferencing and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology as well as the latest ‘NEAT’ system touch-screen meeting rooms.

In addition to its modern office offering, Metro members can also benefit from additional amenities such as a free gym membership, fully equipped kitchens, coffee machines, regular events and 50 onsite car parking spaces in its underground basement. 

With its central location next to Belfast City Hall on Donegall Square, Metro Office also gives convenient access to the city centre for non-drivers, with ample travel connections through the close by Grand Central Station, Glider and bus stops as well as onsite bike storage.

One of Metro Office’s first tenants is Northern Irish commercial real estate company Finch.

Stephen Chambers, Partner at Finch said: “Metro Office is the ideal location for a city centre office. The modern feel and offering make it an enjoyable space to come into and work. Its flexible contracts are ideal when catering to businesses at different stages with quick move-in times, flexible terms and all-inclusive amenities available to members.

“As well as the brilliant features of the Metro Office, we have found that developing a strong community in Belfast’s serviced office space can lead to shared insights, partnerships, and even business referrals.” 

To find out more please visit the Metro Office website at www.metrooffice.co.uk.  

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