Key SummaryRecord sales: UWS turnover hit £285m in 2024, with gross profit up but operating profit down. Growth push: Targeting £500m by 2030 via acquisitions, depot upgrades, and London expansion. Retailer support: 150 store refits, new EPOS, and loyalty clubs to boost engagement.United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) achieved record turnover of £285 million in the year ending 31 December 2024, up from £281.7 million in 2023.UWS's gross profit rose from £25.4 million to £26.9 million, representing an increase from 9 per cent to 9.5 per cent while operating profit was down from £7.6 million to £6.9 million.The Glasgow-based wholesaler, which recently completed its takeover of Time Wholesale in Essex (now called United Rainham), said that the growth was achieved despite a highly competitive market and ongoing pressure on consumer spending.A company spokesperson added: “Our strategic focus on optimising the sales mix, enhancing customer and supplier relationships and using modern ... Continue Reading »
This August, hydration enhancer brand Phizz is adding a new premium range to its growing product portfolio. Phizz Daily Immune+ offers hydration-focused immune support. Packed with vitamins D, B6, C, A and E, plus other key minerals it delivers proactive, daily support to help your immune system fight infection and keep you healthy and resilient - before any issues arise. Launching in a refreshing Orange flavour, the NPD will be rolling out to independents via wholesalers including CLF and Pharmaplace from 1 September.The brand’s first foray into a proactive immunity product offering is the first of its kind to market. Boasting a combination of science-led hydration with powerful immune-supporting nutrients, Immune+ will help keep you fighting fit. With a formula that hydrates you 3x faster than water alone and supports your immune defences with vitamins C and D, iron, zinc and selenium the new daily essential is set to help ... Continue Reading »
Dr. Oetker is setting a new tone for frozen pizza with the launch of Suprema, the brand’s finest expression of Neapolitan style craftmanship. Launching across major UK retailers from this month, Suprema has been crafted to meet the surging demand for modern restaurant-quality, pizzeria-style pizza at home, a segment that now accounts for nine per cent of all in-home pizza occasions. In this “pizzeria at home” occasion specifically, frozen pizza currently under-indexes, with chilled and homemade pizza options dominating. Serving up restaurant quality straight from the frozen aisle, Dr. Oetker is proud to be launching Suprema, identifying a £22m opportunity for frozen pizza if shoppers can be encouraged to choose frozen pizza as often as they choose chilled for this pizzeria at home occasion. While the total frozen pizza category continues to feel pressure (-2.6 per cent in value, -2.8 per cent in units), the premium segment has seen growth ... Continue Reading »
Jamie Dornan is making a splash as he returns for Diet Coke’s latest This Is My Taste campaign. Appearing in the playful new advert, launching today, the big screen actor talks to his surprising personal passion of cold-water swimming.In the new tongue-in-cheek content, Jamie is seen taking a sip of his ultimate refreshment – an ice-cold Diet Coke – whilst revealing that the average Diet Coke break totals eight minutes, which is “Eight minutes back for embracing our unique tastes”. Jamie then heads straight into the open water, sporting silver “This Is My Taste” trunks.During his chilly dip, Jamie shines a light on the range of ways people can take an (eight-minute) break to explore and enjoy their own unique tastes. He crosses paths with an eccentric bird watcher, a radio-controlled boat, a vibrant brass band and a determined paddleboarder, tapping into one of the UK’s fastest-growing water sports.Following his ... Continue Reading »
Leading impulse and confectionery distributor Bobby’s has expanded its range with new and exciting products. The most recent launches include bagged sweets, kids' novelty products and grab-and-go products, as well as a new flavour from the popular Sneak Energy brand.New additions to Bobby’s bagged sweets range are Tongue Painters, Meerkat Gummies and Rainbow Bites and Fizzy Blocks, all available in price-marked packs with an RRP of £1.25.The new bags will stand out to young shoppers with their colourful packaging and they’re ideal for sharing with family and friends. The Tongue Painters bring a fun and playful element, whereas the Meerkat Gummies are deliciously fruity. The Rainbow Bites and Fizzy Blocks both have a tasty fondant fillings wrapped in fruity gummies. There are also new additions to the kids’ novelty category. Bobby’s Double Flush RRP £1 comes in the shape of a toilet, with two lollipops that kids can dip in ... Continue Reading »
On 25 August Unconform is launching its three-strong Cold Brew RTDs with added nootropics online, whilst enjoying positive talks with a number of the UK’s most proactive functional drink aisle retailers and wholesalers who operate within the UK’s thriving “functional feasting” space. Today’s chilled drink propositions are expected to do more than simply refresh. The growing emergence and acceptance of nootropics means that growing numbers of progressive drinks retailers are actively tracking down progressive challenger brands with additional health upsides (clean energy, improved immunity).COLD BREW COFFEE RTDsUnconform actively promotes Arabica cold brew coffee appreciation in tandem with supporting enhanced mental clarity, cognitive longevity, improved digestive and immune health.Essentially Unconform is an alternative daily coffee regime that elevates your wellness routine naturally whilst junking the unwelcome caffeine highs, jitters and crashes associated with traditional coffee.Often chilled coffee RTDs are accused of only working with cheaper coffee, something that makes no sense ... Continue Reading »
HighlightsA.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd, the UK’s largest SPAR retailer and wholesaler, is deepening its investment with Relex to unify its retail planning operations The expansion will include implementing Relex space planning capabilities to drive seamless, end-to-end planning across its convenience store network The collaboration is expected to empower A.F. Blakemore to boost product availability, minimise waste, and streamline operations, delivering a more efficient and responsive shopping experience.A.F Blakemore & Son Ltd, the UK’s largest SPAR retailer and wholesaler and one of the country’s most prominent family-owned businesses, is deepening its investment with Relex to unify its retail planning operations. Building on their successful use of Relex for wholesale and distribution centre forecasting and replenishment, A.F. Blakemore will expand this to their retail business, and implement Relex space planning capabilities to drive seamless, end-to-end planning across its convenience store network. This expansion, supported by Relex partner Supply Chain Company, is ... Continue Reading »
HighlightsSPAR's annual Community Cashback campaign provided £100,000 in funding to over 65 grassroots organisations across the UK, with support from SPAR's five Regional Distribution Centres. The campaign, now in its fourth year, received thousands of nominations from SPAR shoppers for local charities and good causes making a difference in their communities. Recipients of the grants span a diverse range of sectors, including youth development, disability support, mental health, and community sport. SPAR’s annual Community Cashback campaign has once again provided direct funding to grassroots organisations across the UK, with more than 65 charities and local groups sharing a £100,000 grant fund.Now in its fourth year, the campaign continues to grow in both reach and impact. This year, it was further strengthened by the support of SPAR’s five Regional Distribution Centres (RDCs), each contributing additional funds to boost the central grant pot. This enabled SPAR to support even more community organisations ... Continue Reading »
Key Points: WRC welcomes Welsh government plans for permanent business rates cuts for small shops but calls for relief to be extended to all retailers. Warns against proposed surtax on medium and large stores, arguing it would shift costs rather than reform Wales’ highest-in-GB rates system. Highlights financial strain on retailers, with £115m in extra costs hitting Welsh businesses from April’s UK Budget amid weak footfall and sales.The Welsh Retail Consortium (WRC) has welcomed elements of the Welsh government’s proposals to overhaul business rates but warned that planned reforms risk penalising larger stores and failing to deliver genuine relief for the sector.In its response to the consultation on “Proposals for non-domestic rates differential multipliers,” which closed on Tuesday (12 August), the WRC praised the government for recognising the disproportionate burden business rates place on retailers, who contribute more than a fifth of Wales’ total rates bill.It backed the proposed ... Continue Reading »
Key Points: The Chartered Trading Standards Institute has issued an urgent warning about the growing number of counterfeit “Labubu” dolls being sold in the UK. Trading Standards teams have seized thousands of unsafe counterfeit Labubu dolls in recent weeks. Counterfeit Labubu dolls are poorly made and unsafe, containing small, detachable parts that pose a serious choking hazard to young children.The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has issued an urgent warning about the growing number of counterfeit “Labubu” dolls being sold in the UK. The viral plush toys – quirky fang-toothed “monster elf” figures made popular by Chinese toymaker Pop Mart – have become a global collector’s craze. This popularity has fuelled a surge in fakes, many being sold by third-party sellers via online marketplaces and local shops. Trading Standards teams have seized thousands of unsafe counterfeit Labubu dolls in recent weeks. In just one month, over 2,000 were confiscated ... Continue Reading »
Red Bull has taken full ownership of Newcastle Falcons, who will be renamed Newcastle Red Bulls. The Premiership Rugby side has struggled in recent years, finishing bottom of the standings in the last three seasons. Red Bull, known for owning Formula One teams and investing in soccer clubs, sees this as their first acquisition of a rugby side.Energy drink company Red Bull has taken full ownership of Newcastle Falcons, who will be renamed Newcastle Red Bulls, the Premiership Rugby side said on Tuesday.The Kingston Park-based club, who were established in 1877 as Gosforth Football Club, have struggled in recent years, finishing bottom of the standings in the last three Premiership seasons in a row."Red Bull's investment in Newcastle is a very positive development and demonstrates the confidence in and potential of the (Premiership)," Rugby Football Union (RFU) CEO Bill Sweeney said in a statement."We've been pleased to support the ... Continue Reading »
Express Cuisine’s Food to Go range is now available through Co-op Wholesale, bringing a fresh selection of wraps, sub rolls and sandwiches that are fully certified by both the Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC) and the Halal Food Authority (HFA).Designed to offer worry-free, great-tasting options for customers seeking Halal products, the range delivers bold flavours with trusted credentials.Included in the range are delicious, handcrafted options such as Chapli Kebab Wrap, Chicken Tikka Wrap, Falafel with Lemon & Chilli Mayo Wrap, Chicken Tikka Sandwich, and Tuna Mayonnaise Crunch Sandwich – all made with premium ingredients and bursting with flavour.“Express Cuisine has a powerful story rooted in community and principle, and we’re proud to bring their high-quality, Halal-certified products to our retailers,” said Leigh Cobden, Wholesale Category Controller at Co-op Wholesale. “With a focus on fresh, handcrafted food made using responsibly sourced ingredients, this range offers both great taste and peace of mind. ... Continue Reading »
Japanese flavours rising by 60 per cent in the salty snacks segment; Tikka Masala flavour continuing to grow in popularityWith reduced salt, the new flavours offer a great-tasting non-HFSS choice that can be displayed in key locations in-storeWalkers’ “Flavourite” campaign is going live in SeptemberWalkers crisps is continuing to lead innovation in the savoury snacking category with the launch of two flavours inspired by tastes from around the world – Sticky Teriyaki and Masala Chicken. Responding to consumer’s evolving taste buds, Walkers is adding to its permanent core range – a milestone moment driven by the nation’s appetite for flavour discovery. With the Tikka Masala flavour continuing to grow in popularity and interest in Japanese flavours rising by 60 per cent in the salty snacks segment, these additions are designed to inject excitement into the category, driving shopper engagement and delivering greater flavour variety alongside core favourites.Landing on the two ... Continue Reading »
Iced tea is fast becoming the go-to alternative for alcohol-free sipping for Brits, reveals a new study.According to a wider trend report of over 2,000 Brits commissioned by Fortnum & Mason, half of the population are drinking iced tea at least once per week (50 per cent) which is approximately 33.5 million people up and down the country.Hot black tea continues to remain a staple with three in four Brits (76 per cent) regularly reaching for a tea bag.New sales data released by the British retailer found that its brand-new Royal Blend Iced Tea outsold water in its very first week, becoming the brand’s best-selling drink. In fact, it sold 34 per cent more than the next best-seller (water), and 185 per cent more than forecasted across all stores and online.One of the main reasons it’s having its moment is the rise of the sober curious and a shift towards ... Continue Reading »
Officers from Barrow’s Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) have seized a significant quantity of illegal disposable vapes and other prohibited products from a town centre shop during an enforcement visit.The action on 7 August followed a licensing inspection in which officers found the items concealed within the premises, deliberately hidden from public view and not advertised for sale. The seizure comes just two months after the nationwide ban on selling single-use vapes came into effect on 1 June 2025.Sergeant Paul Holmes of Barrow NPT said: “These illegal products don’t just flout regulations, they also pose a health and safety risk to our communities. As a result of the seizure, there is one less stash on the streets in Barrow. We remain committed to tackling the sale of illegal goods and protecting the wellbeing of our residents.”Following the police action, Westmorland and Furness Trading Standards revisited the business the next day and ... Continue Reading »
Key SummaryRecord sales: UWS turnover hit £285m in 2024, with gross profit up but operating profit down. Growth push: Targeting £500m by 2030 via acquisitions, depot upgrades, and London expansion. Retailer support: 150 store refits, new EPOS, and loyalty clubs to boost engagement.United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) achieved record turnover of £285 million in the year ending 31 December 2024, up from £281.7 million in 2023.UWS's gross profit rose from £25.4 million to £26.9 million, representing an increase from 9 per cent to 9.5 per cent while operating profit was down from £7.6 million to £6.9 million.The Glasgow-based wholesaler, which recently completed its takeover of Time Wholesale in Essex (now called United Rainham), said that the growth was achieved despite a highly competitive market and ongoing pressure on consumer spending.A company spokesperson added: “Our strategic focus on optimising the sales mix, enhancing customer and supplier relationships and using modern ... 
This August, hydration enhancer brand Phizz is adding a new premium range to its growing product portfolio. Phizz Daily Immune+ offers hydration-focused immune support. Packed with vitamins D, B6, C, A and E, plus other key minerals it delivers proactive, daily support to help your immune system fight infection and keep you healthy and resilient - before any issues arise. Launching in a refreshing Orange flavour, the NPD will be rolling out to independents via wholesalers including CLF and Pharmaplace from 1 September.The brand’s first foray into a proactive immunity product offering is the first of its kind to market. Boasting a combination of science-led hydration with powerful immune-supporting nutrients, Immune+ will help keep you fighting fit. With a formula that hydrates you 3x faster than water alone and supports your immune defences with vitamins C and D, iron, zinc and selenium the new daily essential is set to help ... 
Dr. Oetker is setting a new tone for frozen pizza with the launch of Suprema, the brand’s finest expression of Neapolitan style craftmanship. Launching across major UK retailers from this month, Suprema has been crafted to meet the surging demand for modern restaurant-quality, pizzeria-style pizza at home, a segment that now accounts for nine per cent of all in-home pizza occasions. In this “pizzeria at home” occasion specifically, frozen pizza currently under-indexes, with chilled and homemade pizza options dominating. Serving up restaurant quality straight from the frozen aisle, Dr. Oetker is proud to be launching Suprema, identifying a £22m opportunity for frozen pizza if shoppers can be encouraged to choose frozen pizza as often as they choose chilled for this pizzeria at home occasion. While the total frozen pizza category continues to feel pressure (-2.6 per cent in value, -2.8 per cent in units), the premium segment has seen growth ... 
Jamie Dornan is making a splash as he returns for Diet Coke’s latest This Is My Taste campaign. Appearing in the playful new advert, launching today, the big screen actor talks to his surprising personal passion of cold-water swimming.In the new tongue-in-cheek content, Jamie is seen taking a sip of his ultimate refreshment – an ice-cold Diet Coke – whilst revealing that the average Diet Coke break totals eight minutes, which is “Eight minutes back for embracing our unique tastes”. Jamie then heads straight into the open water, sporting silver “This Is My Taste” trunks.During his chilly dip, Jamie shines a light on the range of ways people can take an (eight-minute) break to explore and enjoy their own unique tastes. He crosses paths with an eccentric bird watcher, a radio-controlled boat, a vibrant brass band and a determined paddleboarder, tapping into one of the UK’s fastest-growing water sports.Following his ... 
Leading impulse and confectionery distributor Bobby’s has expanded its range with new and exciting products. The most recent launches include bagged sweets, kids' novelty products and grab-and-go products, as well as a new flavour from the popular Sneak Energy brand.New additions to Bobby’s bagged sweets range are Tongue Painters, Meerkat Gummies and Rainbow Bites and Fizzy Blocks, all available in price-marked packs with an RRP of £1.25.The new bags will stand out to young shoppers with their colourful packaging and they’re ideal for sharing with family and friends. The Tongue Painters bring a fun and playful element, whereas the Meerkat Gummies are deliciously fruity. The Rainbow Bites and Fizzy Blocks both have a tasty fondant fillings wrapped in fruity gummies. There are also new additions to the kids’ novelty category. Bobby’s Double Flush RRP £1 comes in the shape of a toilet, with two lollipops that kids can dip in ... 
On 25 August Unconform is launching its three-strong Cold Brew RTDs with added nootropics online, whilst enjoying positive talks with a number of the UK’s most proactive functional drink aisle retailers and wholesalers who operate within the UK’s thriving “functional feasting” space. Today’s chilled drink propositions are expected to do more than simply refresh. The growing emergence and acceptance of nootropics means that growing numbers of progressive drinks retailers are actively tracking down progressive challenger brands with additional health upsides (clean energy, improved immunity).COLD BREW COFFEE RTDsUnconform actively promotes Arabica cold brew coffee appreciation in tandem with supporting enhanced mental clarity, cognitive longevity, improved digestive and immune health.Essentially Unconform is an alternative daily coffee regime that elevates your wellness routine naturally whilst junking the unwelcome caffeine highs, jitters and crashes associated with traditional coffee.Often chilled coffee RTDs are accused of only working with cheaper coffee, something that makes no sense ... 
HighlightsA.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd, the UK’s largest SPAR retailer and wholesaler, is deepening its investment with Relex to unify its retail planning operations The expansion will include implementing Relex space planning capabilities to drive seamless, end-to-end planning across its convenience store network The collaboration is expected to empower A.F. Blakemore to boost product availability, minimise waste, and streamline operations, delivering a more efficient and responsive shopping experience.A.F Blakemore & Son Ltd, the UK’s largest SPAR retailer and wholesaler and one of the country’s most prominent family-owned businesses, is deepening its investment with Relex to unify its retail planning operations. Building on their successful use of Relex for wholesale and distribution centre forecasting and replenishment, A.F. Blakemore will expand this to their retail business, and implement Relex space planning capabilities to drive seamless, end-to-end planning across its convenience store network. This expansion, supported by Relex partner Supply Chain Company, is ... 
HighlightsSPAR's annual Community Cashback campaign provided £100,000 in funding to over 65 grassroots organisations across the UK, with support from SPAR's five Regional Distribution Centres. The campaign, now in its fourth year, received thousands of nominations from SPAR shoppers for local charities and good causes making a difference in their communities. Recipients of the grants span a diverse range of sectors, including youth development, disability support, mental health, and community sport. SPAR’s annual Community Cashback campaign has once again provided direct funding to grassroots organisations across the UK, with more than 65 charities and local groups sharing a £100,000 grant fund.Now in its fourth year, the campaign continues to grow in both reach and impact. This year, it was further strengthened by the support of SPAR’s five Regional Distribution Centres (RDCs), each contributing additional funds to boost the central grant pot. This enabled SPAR to support even more community organisations ... 
Key Points: WRC welcomes Welsh government plans for permanent business rates cuts for small shops but calls for relief to be extended to all retailers. Warns against proposed surtax on medium and large stores, arguing it would shift costs rather than reform Wales’ highest-in-GB rates system. Highlights financial strain on retailers, with £115m in extra costs hitting Welsh businesses from April’s UK Budget amid weak footfall and sales.The Welsh Retail Consortium (WRC) has welcomed elements of the Welsh government’s proposals to overhaul business rates but warned that planned reforms risk penalising larger stores and failing to deliver genuine relief for the sector.In its response to the consultation on “Proposals for non-domestic rates differential multipliers,” which closed on Tuesday (12 August), the WRC praised the government for recognising the disproportionate burden business rates place on retailers, who contribute more than a fifth of Wales’ total rates bill.It backed the proposed ... 
Key Points: The Chartered Trading Standards Institute has issued an urgent warning about the growing number of counterfeit “Labubu” dolls being sold in the UK. Trading Standards teams have seized thousands of unsafe counterfeit Labubu dolls in recent weeks. Counterfeit Labubu dolls are poorly made and unsafe, containing small, detachable parts that pose a serious choking hazard to young children.The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has issued an urgent warning about the growing number of counterfeit “Labubu” dolls being sold in the UK. The viral plush toys – quirky fang-toothed “monster elf” figures made popular by Chinese toymaker Pop Mart – have become a global collector’s craze. This popularity has fuelled a surge in fakes, many being sold by third-party sellers via online marketplaces and local shops. Trading Standards teams have seized thousands of unsafe counterfeit Labubu dolls in recent weeks. In just one month, over 2,000 were confiscated ... 
Red Bull has taken full ownership of Newcastle Falcons, who will be renamed Newcastle Red Bulls. The Premiership Rugby side has struggled in recent years, finishing bottom of the standings in the last three seasons. Red Bull, known for owning Formula One teams and investing in soccer clubs, sees this as their first acquisition of a rugby side.Energy drink company Red Bull has taken full ownership of Newcastle Falcons, who will be renamed Newcastle Red Bulls, the Premiership Rugby side said on Tuesday.The Kingston Park-based club, who were established in 1877 as Gosforth Football Club, have struggled in recent years, finishing bottom of the standings in the last three Premiership seasons in a row."Red Bull's investment in Newcastle is a very positive development and demonstrates the confidence in and potential of the (Premiership)," Rugby Football Union (RFU) CEO Bill Sweeney said in a statement."We've been pleased to support the ... 
Express Cuisine’s Food to Go range is now available through Co-op Wholesale, bringing a fresh selection of wraps, sub rolls and sandwiches that are fully certified by both the Halal Monitoring Committee (HMC) and the Halal Food Authority (HFA).Designed to offer worry-free, great-tasting options for customers seeking Halal products, the range delivers bold flavours with trusted credentials.Included in the range are delicious, handcrafted options such as Chapli Kebab Wrap, Chicken Tikka Wrap, Falafel with Lemon & Chilli Mayo Wrap, Chicken Tikka Sandwich, and Tuna Mayonnaise Crunch Sandwich – all made with premium ingredients and bursting with flavour.“Express Cuisine has a powerful story rooted in community and principle, and we’re proud to bring their high-quality, Halal-certified products to our retailers,” said Leigh Cobden, Wholesale Category Controller at Co-op Wholesale. “With a focus on fresh, handcrafted food made using responsibly sourced ingredients, this range offers both great taste and peace of mind. ... 
Japanese flavours rising by 60 per cent in the salty snacks segment; Tikka Masala flavour continuing to grow in popularityWith reduced salt, the new flavours offer a great-tasting non-HFSS choice that can be displayed in key locations in-storeWalkers’ “Flavourite” campaign is going live in SeptemberWalkers crisps is continuing to lead innovation in the savoury snacking category with the launch of two flavours inspired by tastes from around the world – Sticky Teriyaki and Masala Chicken. Responding to consumer’s evolving taste buds, Walkers is adding to its permanent core range – a milestone moment driven by the nation’s appetite for flavour discovery. With the Tikka Masala flavour continuing to grow in popularity and interest in Japanese flavours rising by 60 per cent in the salty snacks segment, these additions are designed to inject excitement into the category, driving shopper engagement and delivering greater flavour variety alongside core favourites.Landing on the two ... 
Iced tea is fast becoming the go-to alternative for alcohol-free sipping for Brits, reveals a new study.According to a wider trend report of over 2,000 Brits commissioned by Fortnum & Mason, half of the population are drinking iced tea at least once per week (50 per cent) which is approximately 33.5 million people up and down the country.Hot black tea continues to remain a staple with three in four Brits (76 per cent) regularly reaching for a tea bag.New sales data released by the British retailer found that its brand-new Royal Blend Iced Tea outsold water in its very first week, becoming the brand’s best-selling drink. In fact, it sold 34 per cent more than the next best-seller (water), and 185 per cent more than forecasted across all stores and online.One of the main reasons it’s having its moment is the rise of the sober curious and a shift towards ... 
Officers from Barrow’s Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) have seized a significant quantity of illegal disposable vapes and other prohibited products from a town centre shop during an enforcement visit.The action on 7 August followed a licensing inspection in which officers found the items concealed within the premises, deliberately hidden from public view and not advertised for sale. The seizure comes just two months after the nationwide ban on selling single-use vapes came into effect on 1 June 2025.Sergeant Paul Holmes of Barrow NPT said: “These illegal products don’t just flout regulations, they also pose a health and safety risk to our communities. As a result of the seizure, there is one less stash on the streets in Barrow. We remain committed to tackling the sale of illegal goods and protecting the wellbeing of our residents.”Following the police action, Westmorland and Furness Trading Standards revisited the business the next day and ...