Category: Blogs
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Dry January Alcohol Alternatives
Continue ReadingDry January Alcohol Alternatives
For those passing up the alcohol and skipping the hangovers this January, try indulging in the best no and low-alcohol alternatives.
Whether you want to kick off the new year with a detox or save cash after an expensive Christmas, you may or may not have thought about trying Dry January.
Whatever your stance is, you’ve heard of it, with the low-alcohol market exploding in recent years. We have curated a list of our best recommendations to help those ditching the alcohol in 2023…
BEERS
A selection of the best 0.0% and 0.5%, no and low alcohol beers.
CIDERS
Kopparberg
If you’re a fruity cider lover, try the alcohol-free Kopparberg mixed fruits non-alcoholic cider. It’s tasty, super fruity and sweet whilst containing 0% alcohol.
Thatchers
For a typical British apple cider, Thatchers Zero is a great alcohol-free alternative. It’s a golden, medium dry cider, crafted using a selection of apples including Dabinett and Somerset Redstreak to provide full body.
WINES
Red
0%riginal
Vibrant ruby colour, blackberry and raspberry aromas with a slight spiciness. Fresh palate with woody notes, well-balanced tannins and a medium finish.
Rose
Torres Natureo
Raspberry colour with soft coppery highlights and a delicate cherry jam aroma. Smooth, fresh, luscious on the palate, with undertones reminiscent of sour candy.
White
Darling Cellars
A light yellow sauvignon blanc with green tint in colour, flavours of ripe tropical fruit, yellow peaches and gooseberries, complimented by a fresh acidity.
Sparkling
Real Drinks
A non-alcoholic alternative to champagne & sparkling wine.
Made by naturally fermenting exquisite loose-leaf teas over many weeks.
MOCKTAILS
Your favourite cocktails, without the alcohol content!
SPIRITS
Do you know someone who loves citrus-flavoured drinks? This zesty, citrus blend is made using three types of Mediterranean Orange, Ginger, Lemongrass & Lemon peel, a great non-alcoholic alternative.
Clean & Rhubarb is a hangover-free gin, bursting with fruity aromas of London dry gin, rhubarb and red berries. Enjoy notes of fruity rhubarb, juniper, and citrus with a subtle hint of coriander, mint and cinnamon.
Lyre’s
White Cane Spirit captures the essence of a gently aged white rum with flavours that are distinct and contemporary. Oak and sugar cane provide the platform for the marzipan, orange and coconut to shine, rounded off with a light, peppery finish.
APERITIF
Dive nose-first into wild herbal aroma, followed by a cool wave of zest and spice, before kicking back with lasting bittersweet citrus in Ruby Aperitif.
Here at New Chapter we have a selection of amazing consultants who are passionate about the drinks industry.
If you’re interested in a career change, please get in touch!
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Beat the New Year Blues
Continue ReadingBeat the New Year Blues
Happy New Year, here are some helpful steps to avoid those New Year blues!
Most people start the new year on a natural high after a relaxing festive period and the idea of new beginnings. As we continue further into January, the Christmas decorations return to the attic, and the work-to-do list gets progressively longer.
Try something new
If you’ve always longed to start ice skating or painting workshops, now is the perfect time to learn a new skill. Taking up an extra activity or sport can top the list of things to accomplish in a new year, and the challenge can be extremely rewarding. Yet also intimidating and short-lived, so ensure you start 2023 looking forward to fresh activities with a goal in mind.
Ensure you get enough sunlight
Have you ever linked your mood to the lack of sun? Well, it’s a good idea to start, as a common reason for the January Blues is lack of sun exposure. Sunlight increases the release of hormones such as serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping you feel calm and focused. Melatonin is responsible for helping you sleep. Low serotonin levels create a higher risk of seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression triggered by the changing seasons.
To avoid this, start by taking short winter strolls or increasing your level of exercise throughout the winter period.
Avoid those unrealistic resolutions
Often overly ambitions resolutions lead straight to the January blues. Start with baby steps and set yourself a small goal to achieve each month. Being realistic but still moving in the right direction helps to achieve your end target, without experiencing burn out.
Take a mental break
For many, Christmas can be an incredibly stressful time. With so many preparations, no wonder everyone is burnt out by February.
To avoid this, take time and dedicate an entire weekend to yourself. This could be a venture to a luxury weekend getaway or something simple like a fresh hair-do. Ensuring this time for yourself will allow you to enter 2023 with the correct mindset.
Change career
If the dread of returning to work overlooked the excitement of a new year. Maybe your first step in 2023 is considering a change in company or career path altogether. We spend a lot of our time in the workplace, so ensuring you enjoy what you do is extremely important. Continuing in a position that leaves you unsatisfied, can be the largest contributor to the January blues.
Here at New Chapter, we can help you, with many live vacancies on our website.
Get in touch with our team of incredible consultants to discuss your options.
Let us guide you into the new year, starting a new chapter. -
Quick & Easy Festive Treats
Continue ReadingQuick and Easy Festive Treats
If in the midst of last-minute shopping, you forgot all about dessert…
Take the stress out of baking this Christmas with these easy-yet-impressive festive treats. Whether you’re after fun cookies to decorate with the kids, or full-on showstoppers, we’ve got all your baking needs covered!
Are you interested in jobs in this industry?
Here at New Chapter we have a selection of amazing consultants who are passionate about the FMCG industry. They spend each day helping individuals start new chapters within many sectors.
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Gift Guide Round Up
Continue ReadingUltimate Gift Guide Round up for Every Personality
Still need help from a gift guide?
Need a few stocking fillers?
With the festive season in full swing, last minute panic buying for different occasions has begun (although you still have time to avoid the big day panic!). If you’re stumped for ideas this festive season, we’ve compiled a gift guide to help steer you in the right direction. Specially selected unique and fun gifts for every personality!
Time to take your gift ideas up a notch…
1. Best for the Forgetful Friend
An AirTag is a great gift for those friends, coworkers and family who spend their whole lives asking ‘have you seen my..?’
2. Best for the Tiny Home Dweller
Buying for someone with little appliance space or just an obsession with cute mini objects, a Mini Waffle Maker is the perfect gift!
3. Best for the Adoring Dog Owner
Everyone knows someone who is dog obsessed, why not buy them a matching jumper set, perfect for those Christmas family photos.
Buy now from Spark Paws for £40 (human hoodie) & £18 (dog hoodie)!
4. Best for the Bake-Off Wannabe
Buying for a baking fanatic? Why not get them a Cake Pop Making Kit, hopefully they will supply you with endless cake in return!
5. Best for the Adoring Cat Owner
What’s not to love about cats in Jumpers! For that cat obsessed friend, get them a Christmas Cat Tea Towel from a small business.
Buy now from Not on the Highstreet for £12!
6. Best for the Foodie
A gift that’s always a safe bet, is chocolate. Why not go the extra step and buy them fancy Natalie Belgian Praline penguin chocolates!
7. Best for the Plant Parent
If the person you are buying for is that skilled they can keep a plant alive for longer than a week (unlike many of us), why not buy them this stylish hanging basket to add to their house plant collection.
8. Best for the Party Animal
Who doesn’t love a fairy light, or even better, cocktail fairy lights! Support a small business and gift some Margarita Cocktail LED Lights, to help jazz up their next party (or even just the house all year round!)
9. Best for the Heating Hater
You could gift a blanket hoodie to anyone, not only is it simply a great gift but it comes with the extra benefits of reducing office heating wars and might even help toward saving on the heating at home too!
10. Best for the Gamer
Does anyone really need a Tiny Arcade Machine? Of course they do, and its the perfect secret santa gift for any gamer!
11. Best for the Biscuit Obsessed
Don’t think twice when gifting a Cookie Warmer Mug, perfect for everyone, especially at this time of year!
12. Best for the still no idea what to buy you
We have given you our top ten, but your still stumped. Who wouldn’t love a pair of socks with your face all over them?! (or maybe just stick to something safe like a lottery ticket)
Buy now from Funky Pigeon for £14.99!
Here at New Chapter, Team London had their festive afternoon last week where we shut our laptops for the afternoon and had some fun.
So, the panic buying for our consultants in London is over, with a very successful secret Santa complete – what even is an office Christmas without one? To see more of the day and what we got up to check out our Instagram Reel!
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog, we hope it can help you out this December.
Why not get yourself the extra present this year of a new job?
Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!
Or
Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
0845 200 741
info@newchapter.co.uk -
Interviews vs Dating… What’s the Difference?
Continue ReadingInterviews vs Dating... What's the Difference?
It’s a funny pattern we often pick up on. So what better time then Valentine’s Day to share with you the similarities dating and interviews bring. You want to be loved and have control, there’s great deal of unknown, a lot of room for error. The need to appear interested but not desperate. Surprisingly, some of the best dating advice may also be used to a succeed in your job search! So hopefully with this blog you might be able to take away a few tips from us. Whether it be dating or interviews… New Chapter is giving our best dating advice, who would’ve thought!
1. Mutual Friends Bring Connections
Friends can be some of the best people for introductions and getting a ‘referral’ can be super valuable in both games.
Mutual connections can get you one step ahead of the game. Knowing both parties can often mean they understand your suitability and introductions can be very worthwhile.
2. You Have to Get Out There to Reap Results
You can’t discover job opportunities or meet new people by making no effort and doing nothing.
Network, do your research, contact firms that stand out to you, upload your CV to job boards… and get those interviews!
3. First Impressions Count
Those first time nerves, worrying about what they will think, what to wear, how you want to come across… it’s all normal.
Starting from the first step, how you will come across on paper, are you their type?
Your CV must highlight all your best assets and skills. Use this to really sell yourself and prove why you are the perfect candidate.
We can’t enhance how important preparation is before the first interviews… have a look through our guide to help you out here.
4. Your First Date
It’s likely you’re nervous, but that shows you care. Try to look at the exciting aspects of this potential new chapter in your life, gather all the questions you have and enter feeling positive and confident.
The KEY thing is to be yourself.
With that said you must choose your words carefully, keep the balance of showing off your personality whilst keeping professional.
Of course you want to dress to impress too, you need to make a favorable impression. Keep simple, classic, smart and minimalistic, don’t let your clothes distract from you!
Topics of conversation on dates and in interviews can often be quite similar. Where you are from? What motivates you? What are your passions? However, in both circumstances this needs to flow and keep your listener interested. You want to tell them about your most exciting and relevant experiences. Share what you can bring to the business and tie in your experience with what they are looking for.
Body language is always something to keep in mind. You want to present yourself as confident and friendly in interviews. Keep your shoulders back, arms unfolded, consistent eye contact and don’t forget to smile!
Finally, be on time, there is nothing worse than being late. It shows you are unorganised and can show a lack of commitment or respect.
5. The Second Date is Set
Hopefully at this stage the nerves are under control. Getting to a second meeting or futher interviews shows you did well. They like you, take confidence from that.
This is an opportunity to get to know one another on a deeper level. Sometimes you are required to do a presentation or participate in activities. This provides you with another great opportunity to sell yourself and your skills.
6. Look Out for Chemistry & Matched Morals
A very important step in the process. This is something that in the long run will have a big impact and really show up if you aren’t on the same level.
Ensure the business you are looking to work for share the same ethics and moral compass as yourself. You can get an idea of the company’s personality through their social media presence and the way they present themselves online.
Top Tip: Do your research and don’t be afraid to ask questions surrounding this topic, they need to be right for you just as much as you need to be right for them.
7. Don't Settle
With that said, don’t be afraid to look for the full package and don’t settle until you have that. Know your worth and never doubt it!
Make sure you understand the remuneration package that comes with your role. Don’t hesitate to compare this to what other companies are offering. It’s important that you are comfortable with what they are providing and that the care for their employees is clear.
It is common for us to feel the need to lower our expectations and reduce your drive for perfection and excellence. However, this will never serve you well. There is nothing wrong with wanting to work somewhere that will make the most of your skills, value you, and reward your hard work. It is always possible to get what you want if you work hard for it and show that you are deserving.
But… it is important to keep in mind that no job will be perfect, there will always be parts you dislike more than others. Don’t get caught too up on finding the ‘perfect’ role.
Settling will only in time produce resentment and dissatisfaction within you job, which is good for nobody. Be clear and honest about what you need and want.
8. Don't be Too Eager
That awful wait afterwards where you don’t want to look too desperate but equally you want to show your interest.
Rather than contacting them straight away, you want to give a day or so after interviews to follow up. You can then thank the interviewee for their time and confirm your interest in the company and role.
9. Make it Official
You’ve done it and things have been made official!
The job offer has come through, time to resign and get preparing for your new role you have worked so hard for.
10. Don't Forget Your Friends
Never forget those who have been there from the start.
If you have worked through your job hunting process with a recruiter never forget to keep them in the loop post job offer. They will be there to help you with the move by answering questions, supporting any nerves and keeping the process as smooth as possible.
Not to mention they are invested in your journey and want to be a part of it right until the end!
Finding the right match is not easy in dating or on your job search. Just remember to stay present, open and honest with both the other person and yourself. Stick to your true self and facing those awkward situations will become much easier. It will allow you to find the one and shape a career you love!
As recruiters our favourite thing is watching the match making we do come to life. Being part of that huge new chapter in an individual’s life is so rewarding. So, if you are looking for a fresh start in your career (sorry we can’t help any further with the love life) then please send over your CV to us. We would love to work with you on finding THE ONE.
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A Look Into The Celeb Alcohol Market
Continue ReadingA Look Into The Celeb Drinks Market
The celeb alcohol market is full of big names and with the industry having boomed over recent years. We have seen some highly commended products come out the other side. These have even shown to rival some of our most well-known names. From the Delevingne sisters to Jay Z and tequila to classic whisky… there is something there for everyone. What better way is there to end dry January?
818 Tequila - Kendal Jenner
One of the newest alcoholic products to enter the celebrity market is American model, Kendal Jenners 818 Tequila. With an ABV of 40% and multiple awards. Including the tasting competitions at the World Tequila Awards and the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. The drink has been a hit ever since its release in 2021.
Jenner has worked closely with ‘family-owned farms in Jalisco, Mexico to bring you the smoothest, most natural, and best tasting tequila possible. Only the highest quality ingredients are used in its creation.’
After four years in the making the sustainable Tequila has flavours of sweet agave and vanilla. With undertones of tropical and citrus fruits, finishing with notes of almonds, lime and toasted coconut. This creates an ultra smooth and mellow taste, a great addition to the celeb alcohol market.
£64.99 – The Bottle Club
Della Vite Prosecco - Delevingne Sisters
As is the way for many of us, the sisters felt that prosecco was at the center of many memories. It had long been a part of their sisterhood and friendship… and with that came their very own prosecco.
Although you may initially think the Della Vite Prosecco is named after its founders Chloe, Poppy and Cara Delevingne. It’s actually the Italian term for ‘of the vine’. A suitable name for the Italian made fizz which is produced with home made natural ingredients through innovative methods.
The brand currently offers two Proseccos, the Superiore (rich and extra-dry ) and the Treviso (clean and bright with a mix of gooseberry and date notes). Both capture the feeling of sun drenched days and the warmth of good company.
£25.99 – Selfridges
Quatre Vin Wines - Oliver Proudlock, Emma-Louise Proudlock, Elliot Awin, and Paula Anton
These gorgeous wines with a clean, chic branding style have been created recently by close friends. Oliver Proudlock and Elliot Awin, along with their partners Emma-Louise Proudlock and Paula Anton. We have the pandemic to thank for many great businesses, with this being one. They first thought of going into business with one another during this time. Soon realising their ‘collective ethos behind building a brand was so aligned’ and thus came Quatre Vin Wines.
May 2021 saw the launch of the first wine to the celeb alcohol market, a peachy pale rosé with a sophisticated red added to the line since. The wines are organically farmed, vegan friendly and sustainably made at a family run winery. With 7 generations of experience in the heart of Provence.
£16.99 – QV Shop
Fresh Vine Wine – Nina Dobrev & Julianna Hough
Following in the footsteps of many other A-lister wine entrepreneurs such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Cameron Diaz. Nina Dobrev and Julianna Hough entered the market back in 2019 with their health conscious wines.
Now more than ever people are extremely health conscious, diets are becoming more strict and alcohol consumption is going down. The girls created a wine with this lifestyle in mind. Forming a brand based on products that are Gluten Free, Keto friendly and vegan. All with the aim to help find ‘a balance between your active routine and enjoying those other moments with your friends. With a glass of delicious wine that you can count on complementing the work that you put in without the sacrifice’.
The wine goes through a rigorous process from vine to bottle with close attention being paid to every gram of sugar, calorie, and carb that goes into each, giving us ‘a unique collection of bold, crisp, and creamy wines that embody deeper connection with active lifestyles’.
From £13.21 ($17.89) – Fresh Vine Wines
Aviation American Gin - Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Reynolds may not be the creator of Aviation Gin, however he has been a huge part to play in its success, with his ambassadorial efforts and distinct humour setting the tone and personality of the brand.
Aviation has recently been sold to Diageo, the owner of Gordon’s and Tanqueray, who agreed to pay up to US$610 million to acquire Aviation, but despite Reynolds selling his stake back in 2020 he will remain the public face of the brand for the next 10 years.
The gin is massively respected in the industry and arguably one of the best celebrity brands on the market.
£28 – Tesco
Explore our job opportunities within the Drinks industry
Haig Club Classic Whisky - David Beckham
Launched by David Beckham in 2014, Haig Club is an ageless Whisky crafted at the oldest grain distillery in Scotland. The brands style puts a modern, stylish twist on the traditions of whisky but remains perfect for both regular whisky lovers and newbies branching out alike.
The whisky is known to be light, sweet and sumptuously smooth and now boasts a new flavour option to its drinkers after a release in 2021 of the Mediterranean orange twist on the drink.
£25 – Sainsbury’s
King St. Vodka – Kate Hudson
The center point of many gorgeous cocktails, this vodka is a premium-made, female-founded, hydration-heavy alcohol, and another health conscious drink to add to our list! The vodka was released in 2019 and found its name off the back of Kate’s memories of living on King Street in NYC’s Greenwich Village.
The 7x distilled vodka is crafted in Santa Barbara through a proprietary process using GMO-free corn and alkaline water which yields a gluten free, ultra-premium spirit with a hint of sweet vanilla flavour’.
£22.14 ($29.99) – Sip Whisky
Armand de Brignac – JAY-Z – Champagne
Although JAY-Z has recently sold 50% of the company to luxury goods conglomerate LVMH, he was in fact the first rapper to outright own a champagne label.
Armand de Brignac (aka ‘the ace of spades’) comes with a fairly heavy price tag but has been described as a soft and creamy, infused with peach, apricot, red berry, citrus, orange blossom and sprinkles of brioche, which sounds pretty special!
According to Forbes the brand is said to have helped Jay-Z reach the billionaires club in 2019, he has used the name in many of his well known raps which has helped the brand gain a lot of it traction over the years.
£290 – The Champagne Company
SelvaRey Rum – Bruno Mars
SalvaRey loosely translating to ‘king of the jungle’ in Spanish and with now four flavour expressions in the rum collection, Bruno Mars has worked closely as creative visionary and co-owner of the brand to push it to its full potential.
“I tried the rum years ago and loved it,” said Mars. “It tasted like tropical luxury, like I was on vacation. So we started working together, bouncing ideas about how we could show people how this drink makes you feel. Took some years and a lot of Piña Coladas but, dare I say, we did it.”
Owners reserve, White, Chocolate and Coconut are the four flavours that make SalvaRey, each with very modest price points starting $35.99… however, some sad news, it isn’t currently available to buy in the UK.
£26.55 ($35.99) – Unavailble to buy in the UK
Teremana Tequila – Dwayne 'the rock' Johnson
We absolutely love the meaning of the Teremana brand –
“Teremana means spirit of the earth. From taking care of the land where we source our agave, to the painstaking process of creating our tequila, to the people we work and spend time with. Teremana stands for taking care of what and who we love.”
Designed to be the ‘invitation that brings people together’, this tequila brand is sustainable and created with a lot of care in the Jalisco Highlands.
The line-up includes Blanco and Reposado expressions, both of which offer a bold and intense drinking experience – the perfect go to for your margaritas this summer starting at £52.
£52 – The Bottle Club
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An Intro Into: Metaverse, Blockchain and NFTs
Continue ReadingThree of the most high-profile tech concepts of recent years – NFTs, blockchain, and the metaverse.
Growing to be our new future, these technological developments are providing huge opportunity for businesses and we wanted to take a quick look into how…
The Metaverse
The metaverse is an immersive digital ‘world’ populated by virtual avatars representing actual people. Existing in real time as a place that is constantly active. It is seen as a self-contained and fully functioning universe containing user generated content. Rather than a new specific type of technology. The metaverse is seen more as a broad shift in how we interact with technology as a whole.
Learning about the metaverse can be bewildering and is almost like discussing this new thing called the ‘internet’ back in the 1970’s. Just as the internet developed back then, the Metaverse is in the process of being built. No one has a clear view of how this will exactly run or come to life, and it is important to keep this in mind. Speak of smart glasses is one of the many ways the essence and potential of the metaverse has been articulated in what we could call ‘proto-metaverse’ ideas.
However this is a world of virtual reality that continues to exist even when you aren’t on it. Combining aspects of the digital and physical worlds and will be a huge assets to the development of businesses. This follows through into a digital economy within the metaverse where users can create, buy, and sell goods. It is already possible to attend virtual events with your personal avatar and interact with others. This is expected to continue developing into a much huger interactive and widely promoted alternate reality. Consumers can shop, attend virtual conventions and test products all from the comfort of their own home. The size of the audience grows exponentially when you move the experience online. A great example from a Forbes report is a car show, which helps you consider the potential reach if they moved to the metaverse. Where you can simply put on some virtual reality glasses and “sit” in a car to experience and see it from the inside out. The creative opportunity for these types of events is endless and highly valuable for consumer experience.
NFTs
Non Fungible Tokens
An NFT is a blockchain-based digital file that allows “collectors” to own one-of-a-kind, limited-quantity artefacts that appreciate in value as a result of a bidding process.
NFTs are non-interchangeable, unique cryptographic assets which are block chain based digital files. Which allows “collectors” to own one-of-a-kind, limited-quantity artefacts that appreciate in value as a result of a bidding process. They use unique identification codes and meta data to distinguish from one another. Making these items truly one of a kind, and impossible for NFTs to be equal to each other. This differs them from crypto currencies such as bitcoin (fungible assets). Which are identical to one another and can be used as a form of commercial transactions.
Digital analytics firm DappRadar, which tracks NFT data on various platforms, reports that the total market of volume generated by the NFTs in 2020 was $95 million. By the end of Q2 2021 that figure stood at $2.5 billion.
NFTs hold a strong market efficiency as they can streamline processes by removing intermediaries, simplify transactions, and create new markets. This can make them a perfect vehicle for businesses to digitally represent physical assets such as artwork and property.
Brands may use NFTs to generate unique experiences, partnerships, iconic imagery, and memorable marketing campaigns, among other things. This opens up a whole new market by injecting funds in a short period of time. It allows companies to keep possession of their original assets without worry of manipulation, knockoffs, or modifications.
This new way of encouraging consumer interaction allows businesses to create their own tokens. They can then offer new and returning customers the ability to purchase goods and services in a unique and timely manner. As something that doesn’t appear to be going away any time soon. These tokens are now proving to be a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs.
Block Chain
Block chain technology as mentioned previously are what NFT’s are built upon, but what actually are they?
Essentially it is a database that keeps a decentralized and secure record of transactions. However, unlike a database which structures data into tables, blockchain structures data into blocks which are woven together. When a block is completed, it is assigned a time stamp. It becomes a permanent part of the chain, resulting in an irreversible data timeline. The blockchain’s innovation is that it maintains the fidelity and security of a data record. Thereby establishing trust without the necessity for a third party. This is why it currently plays a huge role in cryptocurrency systems such as bitcoin.
Blockchains are an excellent main vehicle source for delivering information and so are perfectly designed for the use of business. Essentially, the faster and more accurate information is received, the better. Blockchains deliver immediate, shareable, and entirely transparent information. Which is kept on an immutable ledger where only permissioned network users can view.
Almost anything of value can be managed and traded on Blockchain. Assets can be tangible (land, car, cash etc) or intangible (patents, copyrights, branding etc). In business for example orders, payments, accounts, production, and much more may all be tracked using a blockchain network. Due to the transparency of transaction information users have greater confidence and additional efficiencies.
These topics are becoming much more widely spoken about, experimented with and now invested in. We hope this has been a good starting point and helped you gain a basic understanding of how businesses can benefit from this ‘new future’.
A side from the many beneficial impacts and growth opportunities these present businesses with. Marketers can specifically take huge advantage of the new world ‘technology’. As an FMCG business we have noticed how we can benefit from these marketing opportunities and next week we want to take a more focussed look into this…
Keep a look out for our blog next week:
The Metaverse, Blockchain and NFT’s - How marketers and the FMCG industry can benefit from this new future.
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How To Love Your Gut
Continue ReadingHow To Love Your Gut
Our gut, AKA the second brain.
It is believed by scientific professionals that our gut is the root of our overall health, if your gut is not healthy, you will not be healthy.
What we put into our bodies, from food to drink, and the medication we take, can have a huge toll on our gut and in turn, our weight, mood, mental health, and much more.
So, why is a healthy gut important and how can you live to love your gut?
7 Signs of an Unhealthy Gut
It can be hard to recognize these issues sometimes, however they can impact many elements of our health, including the brain, heart, immune system, skin, weight, hormone levels, food absorption, and even cancer formation.
There are a number of ways to help recognize if you have an unhealthy gut. Here are seven of the most common signs:
1.An upset stomach
2. Gas or bloating
3. Tiredness and issues sleeping
4. Skin problems or irritation
5. Food sensitivity
6. Unintentional weight gain
7. Mood issues
7 Steps to Improving Your Gut Health
There are many changes we can make to our everyday lives to help improve our gut health, these include:
High stress levels can have a lot of effects on the body, one being your gut. To lower these, you can try many things such as taking time out to journal, or simply making lists to help empty your mind, get plenty of fresh air by going for walks, drink less caffeine and taking time out to spend time with friends & family
Meals are easily finished off quickly, especially when you are hungry! It is important for your digestion to take time eating as this not only prevents any digestive discomfort but also helps your body to absorb all the nutrients from your food, aiding toward a healthier gut.
Sleep, as we know, is very important for many health reasons with gut health included. Try to get at least 7 hours of solid sleep per night. If you struggle getting to sleep at night ensure you are reducing screen time in the lead up, try reading or listening to a podcast, sleep music can also be super beneficial for some people too!
Probiotics are made up of live yeast and bacteria and are taken to ‘feed’ the good bacteria within your digestive system and gut. You can find foods with added probiotics or take them in the form of a tablet too.
Some of the top selling probiotic products:
- Garden of Life Probiotics – £31.95
- Indi Body – £45
Probiotic yoghurts such as:
- Yakult Milk Bottles £3
- Actimel Probiotic Yoghurt Drinks – £3.75
The mucosal lining of the intestines, as well as the balance of good bacteria in the gut are impacted by your hydration. Drinking plenty of water and keeping hydrated is a simple way to support a healthier gut.
Decreasing intake of foods high in sugar and fat is essential, ensure you have a balanced diet. Eating plenty of fibre and lean protein is important as these are critical for ‘feeding’ the beneficial bacteria.
In recent years the plant-based diet has become hugely popular, especially with the amount of meat substitutes growing, and this diet has been found to have a positive impact on the gut too.
Cramping, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, rashes, nausea, fatigue, and acid reflux are all signs of potential food intolerances. If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed it is likely you may have an intolerance, the simplest way to work out what is to cut out and slowly re introduce types of food, such as dairy or gluten. Identifying the issue should help you alter you’re eating habits and make appositive impact on your digestive health.
Christmas time can be a particular wobble for our guts. Diets are scrapped and our weekends are filled with Christmas parties, cocktails, canapes and frantic Christmas shopping… almost all of the above we advise to avoid!
Obviously, you won’t be declining your social invites in order to look after your gut, but there are some simple things you can keep in mind…
- Don’t turn down the veggies at dinner
- Keep dancing, any exercise is good exercise!
- Red wine is your friend, pick your drinks wisely. You will be pleased to hear this tipple is high in polyphenols (micronutrients that provide energy for the microbes in our gut).
- Enjoy high fibre snacks like nuts, olives and popcorn rather than the crisps to help keep your immune system strong and gut nourished!
- Keep organised, don’t feel guilty for indulging in the naughty Christmas treats and take the time to enjoy the festivities with all your friends and family. Sing, dance, admire all the gorgeous parts of Christmas and keep those stress levels low!
Use the upcoming new year as a perfect time to learn more about loving your body and start implementing these little changes to make a huge difference!
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Top Tips To a Sustainable Christmas
Continue ReadingTop Tips To a Sustainable Christmas
Christmas and our traditional ways can have a lot of impact on the environment, we should be having a sustainable christmas. With our bright fairy lights, the endless wrapping paper, and the feasts of Christmas this is hard to achieve. There are lots of little changes we can make this Christmas to be kinder to our planet without spoiling any Christmas cheer… number one, don’t decorate your house like Steve Finch or Buddy Hall!
GIFTING
1.Quality over quantity:
We’ve all been there, the last-minute panic buying just before the big day. All too frequently people receive gifts they will never us. Now more than ever is the time to put thought into your gifts. Ensure you are buying correctly to prevent waste and have a sustainable christmas. You should make every gift count by buying things with value, purpose and meaning.
Back in 2018 research by Royal Mail found that the number of returned gifts totaled to a whopping £1billion! Although it’s the thought that counts, getting something you don’t need or want is no fun for anyone. Gifting an experience is a great present idea that can help you avoid giving someone a gift they don’t want… and with it comes memories to keep forever!
Another good approach to reduce waste and unneeded gifts is to opt for a single large gift instead. Secret Santa is a great way to achieve this with your family.
2.Materials
When shopping for gifts it’s good to keep conscious of the materials used to make them. Avoid single use plastics, keep an eye out for organic certified labels and ensure wood and paper are created from recycled or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified materials.
Have a go at some thrift shopping this year and buying second hand. This saves on resources to make new items and you can often find some super unique steels when you shop this way.
3.Get creative
If you’ve got a little side skill, put it to use and have a go at handmaking some gifts this Christmas. Creating something sentimental, saving money and helping the environment. It all comes hand in hand this way… and grandma is bound to love it too!
WRAPPING
You may have noticed some of our high street shops doubling up their paper shopping bags as gift wrap, this has come from the likes of Primark who are working to support a more sustainable Christmas.
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Why is wrapping paper so bad?
Wrapping paper would definitely sit in the top five things related to Christmas on family fortunes… unfortunately though it is extremely wasteful and often not even recyclable. The product is made from virgin paper (a kind of paper that does not contain any recycled content), which is produced from logged trees in forests and we are very aware of the environmental impact of de-forestation.
Its also important to remember not to try and recycle glittery or foiled paper, as well as paper with sticky tape on as all these items can not be recycled and can ruin the whole load it is mixed with.
In the UK alone, it’s been estimated by WRAP* that the amount of wrapping paper the country throws out at Christmas would stretch to the moon!!
* waste & resource action programme
When shopping look for wrapping paper made of recycled paper, or you could even try your own materials! This can look super effective, find some inspiration below…
CARDS
According to imperial college research, a massive 1.5 billion Christmas cards are thrown away by UK households each year.
You can up your sustainability efforts this Christmas by sending out E-cards instead, there are many platforms with pre made designs or apps like Canva where you can create your own for free.
Whilst we of course can’t stop your loved ones sending you cards, rather than putting them in the bin you can have a go at creating your own gift tags for next year with all the gorgeous designs!
FOOD
Turkey sandwiches everyday the week following Christmas… usually the standard procedure! Of course, this is a great way to reduce food waste but we still face a HUGE amount of it every christmas.
Every year in the UK, approximately 7 million tonnes of food is wasted. Just during the Christmas period on average, 2 million turkeys, 5 million Christmas puddings, and 74 million mince pies get disposed while still edible, causing almost 270,000 tons of food waste in total during this widely celebrated holiday.
Be more conscious when shopping and try to pre plan how much you will realistically need for all your guests, whilst shopping also try and pick out products with UK produce labels to reduce food miles (avoiding food that’s been flown around the world to get here), and sustainability certifications such as RSPO-certified palm oil and MSC-certified seafood.
If you are stuck with left overs and you’re unsure what to do with them then have a browse online. You can research all kinds of recipes for inspiration of ways to use up your left overs! Such as BBC good food.
Sustainable Gifting
Following our top tips and with Christmas just around the corner we are sure many of you, like us, still have a lot of shopping to get done! Here are some sustainable and eco-friendly gift ideas for your loved ones this year…
Made from plants, this biodegradable phone case means you can protect your phone in a way that’s good for the planet.
100% leakproof , made from single-use paper cups. Explore their website for more products giving single-use a second chance.
Contemporary crafted, sustainable clothing from natural fabrics with women’s and men’s bamboo, hemp and organic cotton clothing.
Bottles made with Ocean Plastic, tubes made from post-consumer-recycled plastic and designed for circular recycling.
Plantable Calendar with seeds.
100% organic spirit, distilled with a unique combination of classic gin botanicals and local Scottish plan.
Every piece is handcrafted with 100% recycled gold vermeil and sterling silver, reducing CO2 emissions by over 60%.
Collective social change can make a significant difference in tackling the climate crisis. Not only that, a more sustainable Christmas can help you spend less money, produce less waste, and promote the issues around climate change and sustainability.
Looking for a fresh chapter in the new year?
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New Chapter’s Top Festive Cocktails
Continue ReadingNew Chapter's Top Festive Cocktails
The festive season is upon us and creeping up very quickly. Here at New Chapter Christmas party planning is in action and of course, that involves festive cocktails!
We have pulled together some of our teams favorite recipes to help inspire you for all your Christmas events from big to small, and wow your guests with something different.
From fizz, to fruity and even spicy, were sure we’ve got festive cocktails for everyone… let us know your favorite!
Festive cocktails are an essential part of any celebration. Whether it’s a holiday party, a family gathering, or just a fun night out with friends. These drinks add a special touch to any occasion. They are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. We hope you will try one of our consultants fun recipes!
If drinks is one of your passions then make sure you check out all our job opportunities in this industry!
After the success of our Drinks Salary Survey, we are excited to announce that we will be releasing our free FMCG Salary Survey 2022 at the beginning of January!
We are currently gathering data and insights to build the survey and give you a comprehensive review of salaries, benefits and packages within your industry and profession.
The survey will give you the ability to compare your salary against the industry average and ensure what you are receiving is competitive.
