Pubs prepare for Euro 2024 final boost, Carpetright enters administration, and more top news stories
The excitement is palpable as England gears up for the Euro 2024 final this weekend. Pubs across the country are preparing for what could be one of their busiest weekends of the year, with fans expected to flock to their local watering holes to watch the highly anticipated match against Spain.
According to reports, pubs are hoping for a near-£48m boost, with an estimated 10 million extra pints set to be poured from the pre-match build-up to the final whistle in Berlin. With late-night licensing hours allowing pubs to stay open until 1am, fans will have plenty of time to either celebrate a victory or drown their sorrows.
In other news, the retail sector is facing challenges as Carpetright announces its entry into administration, putting nearly 2,000 jobs at risk. The company has filed a notice of intent to appoint administrators, with experts from PwC stepping in to find emergency funding or a potential buyer for the struggling business.
On a more somber note, a security guard has been jailed for life after plotting to kidnap, rape, and murder TV star Holly Willoughby. The shocking case has had a profound impact on the former This Morning presenter and serves as a reminder of the dangers individuals can face.
Meanwhile, the search for a suspect in the deaths of two men whose remains were found in suitcases in Bristol continues, with more human remains discovered in west London. The Metropolitan Police have named a 24-year-old Colombian national as the suspect in connection with the case.
In the business world, Unilever has announced plans to cut up to 3,200 jobs across Europe as part of efforts to streamline operations and increase productivity. The consumer goods giant had previously indicated its intention to reduce its workforce by around 6%.
On a lighter note, Ineos has unveiled a limited-edition version of the Grenadier off-roader, called the Detour. With only 200 units available, customers will have the opportunity to personalize their vehicles with the same powerful engines as the standard model.
As the week comes to a close, financial markets have seen some positive movement, with the FTSE 100 and other indices closing higher. And as we look ahead to the weekend, BBC Weather forecasts a mix of sunshine and showers across the country, with western and southern areas likely to see the best of the weather.
Overall, it’s shaping up to be an eventful weekend with a mix of sports, business, and weather news keeping us all on our toes. Whether you’re cheering on England in the Euro final or following the latest developments in the business world, there’s plenty to keep us engaged and entertained.