Money
Full list of banks including Nationwide offering free cash payouts of up to £200 before Christmas
HOUSEHOLDS could get a free cash payout worth up to £200 just in time for Christmas.
Four major banks are now offering cash incentives for new customers and you could land a boost in time for the festive period.
Switching bank accounts can be an easy way to give your balance a quick boost.
Cash incentives are regularly launched by banks to entice new customers, but do be sure to check the small print.
Most of these offers have certain criteria that you need to meet in order for you to get the cash.
For example, some accounts require you to pay a certain amount each month to maintain them.
While others might charge you for setting up an overdraft.
Be sure to check that the account you chose is right for you in the long term before switching.
Once you’ve decided you’ll need to make the switch using the current account switching service (CASS) which takes just seven days, and the new bank handles it for you.
We explain further down how the CASS works, but first here’s the full list of the offers available now that could tempt you to move.
Lloyds Bank – £200
If you switch your current account to Lloyds you could get £200.
Both new and existing customers can take advantage of the free cash offer available for those who switch between now and December 10.
Those who switch to the Club Lloyds account can expect the £200 to be paid within ten days of completing the switch.
It is important to be aware that the account comes with a £3 a month fee unless you pay in £2,000 a month.
To finalise the switch, customers can either scan the QR code available on the bank’s website or use the mobile app.
Once completed, Club Lloyds customers will be able to select from a range of perks, including a 12-month Disney+ subscription, a choice of Vue or Odeon cinema tickets, a magazine subscription, or a Coffee Club and Gourmet Society membership.
But remember you pay a fee for the extras, so work out if it’s worth paying the fee to get these.
New customers can get the bonus, and so can existing Lloyds customers if they don’t already have a Club Lloyds account and open a new one.
Those who already received a switch bonus since April 2020 from Lloyds, Halifax or Bank of Scotland (all part of the same group) won’t be eligible.
The same bonus is also available when switching to the Club Lloyds Platinum Account and Club Lloyds Silver Account but these comes with a £22.50 and £11.50 a month fee, respectively, on top of the £3.
How do I switch bank accounts?
SWITCHING bank accounts is a simple process and can usually be done through the Current Account Switch Service (CASS).
Dozens of high street banks and building societies are signed up – there’s a full list on CASS’ website.
Under the switching service, swapping banks should take seven working days.
You don’t have to remember to move direct debits across when moving, as this is done for you.
All you have to do is apply for the new account you want, and the new bank will tell your existing one you’re moving.
There are a few things you can do before switching though, including choosing your switch date and transferring any old bank statements to your new account.
You should get in touch with your existing bank for any old statements.
When switching current accounts, consider what other perks might come with joining a specific bank or building society.
Some banks offer 0% overdrafts up to a certain limit, and others might offer better rates on savings accounts.
And some banks offer free travel or mobile phone insurance with their current accounts – but these accounts might come with a monthly fee.
First Direct – £175
First Direct has relaunched its popular cash switch incentive for anyone who opens a 1st Account.
Customers can receive a payment of up to £175 by using the CASS.
Users have to switch at least two direct debits or standing orders within 30 days of opening the account to qualify for the cash.
Switchers also need to add at least £1,000 into the account, register and log on to internet banking and use the debit card at least five times within 30 days of opening the account.
Customers who meet the criteria should expect the free bonus in their accounts by the 20th of the following month.
The bank revealed that new customers switching to their current account to first direct can expect several extra perks, including a £250 interest-free overdraft.
You won’t qualify for the switching incentive if you have previously held a First Direct product or opened an HSBC current account on or after January 1, 2018.
Customers moving across to the bank will also get access to a regular savings account paying 7% interest, one of the best deals around, as well as a 0% overdraft on the first £250.
Nationwide – £175
Nationwide Building Society has launched a new offer of £175 to switch to its FlexDirect, FlexPlus or FlexAccount current accounts.
The free-cash perk is a joint-market leading sum with First Direct.
The FlexDirect account gives the holder 5% credit interest on balances up to £1,500 for the first 12 months.
This account also offers an interest-free overdraft for the first 12 months.
Those who open a new FlexDirect account will still get the 5% credit interest rate, and will also receive 1% cashback for the first 12 months on debit card purchases, capped at £5 per month.
For new FlexDirect account openings, the previous interest-free overdraft offer will be withdrawn.
But if you are an existing customer who is benefiting from an interest-free overdraft offer then don’t worry, this will continue until the end of their 12-month period.
You also can’t have switched into a Nationwide account, or have received switch cash from Nationwide, since August 18, 2021.
Co-op Bank
The Co-operative Bank has announced eligible customers could receive up to £150.
The first £75 is given when a customer completes a switch to the bank.
Then, the bank is offering three monthly instalments of £25 – another £75 – to make up the £150.
Both new and existing customers can apply to switch to a current account to make themselves eligible for the payment.
Customers must apply for a Standard Current Account or Everyday Extra account.
To be eligible, customers must not have benefited from a switch incentive at The Co-operative Bank since 1 November 2022.
And to receive the first £75, customers need to follow a series of rules.
They are:
- Deposit a minimum of £1,000 into their new account (this includes balances transferred as part of the switch).
- Have 2 active Direct Debits.
- Make a minimum of 10 debit card or digital wallet transactions (pending payments will not count toward fulfilment of this criteria).
- Register for our online and/or mobile banking service.
- Set up the debit card in a digital wallet (Apple Pay, Samsung Wallet or Google Pay).
That leaves the three £25 instalments – and there are some rules to claim them too.
Customers need to deposit at least £1,000 into their account, have two direct debits and make a minimum of 10 debit card transactions.
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Money
Huge pizza chain issues urgent warning to customers over popular dip feared to be contaminated
A MAJOR pizza chain has issued an urgent warning to customers after fears over contaminated popular dips.
The global restaurant company, with more than 450 branches across the UK, was forced to stop serving the much-loved condiments.
Papa Johns issued the warning over two products amid health fears and allergy risks.
Their Garlic and Herb Dip, and their Vegan Ranch Dressing were pulled as they may contain traces of peanuts.
A Papa Johns spokesman said: “At Papa Johns, customer safety is our top priority.
“Certain batches of our Garlic and Herb Dip and our Vegan Ranch Dressing may contain traces of peanuts. Our 25g dips are included with pizzas, and we recently introduced a 100g version. If you have a peanut allergy, please do not consume these dips and dispose of them.
“Our Vegan Ranch Dressing, used on products, may also contain traces of peanuts. If you have a peanut allergy, please avoid these items.
“We are working quickly to resolve this issue. In the meantime, we will replace the Garlic and Herb Dip with our Special Garlic Dip, which is unaffected.
“For any questions or concerns, please contact us at info@papajohns.co.uk.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.”
Fellow industry titan, Domino’s, was forced to make the same announcement last month.
Two Domino’s dip flavours are among the recalled items: the Domino’s Garlic & Herb Dip and the Honey & Mustard one.
Domino’s previously urged those with a peanut allergy to dispose of the dips mentioned on the recall alert and avoid consuming them.
The fast-food chain apologised for any concern this may cause and recommended that customers with queries visit their contact form here.
A Domino’s spokesman said: “At Domino’s Pizza, the quality of our products and the safety of our customers is the highest priority, particularly when it comes to allergens.
“We have become aware that some of our Garlic & Herb and Honey & Mustard dip may contain traces of peanut.
“This issue may impact both our 100g ‘Big Dip’ pots and the smaller, 25g, pots we provide with our pizzas.
“If you DO HAVE A PEANUT ALLERGY, please dispose of the dips and do not consume them.
“If you DO NOT have a peanut allergy, no further action is required.”
The signs of an allergic reaction and anaphylaxis + what to do
SYMPTOMS of an allergy usually occur within minutes of contact with with the offending food or trigger, but they can also come on up to one hour later.
Most allergic reactions are mild but they can also be moderate or severe.
Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction which can be life threatening.
In some cases, anaphylaxis symptoms lead to collapse and unconsciousness and, on rare occasions, can be fatal so it’s important to know how to recognise them and act quickly.
Mild to moderate symptoms include:
- Itchy mouth, tongue and throat
- Swelling of lips, around the eyes or face
- Red raised itchy rash (often called nettle rash, hives or urticaria)
- Vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea
- Runny nose and sneezing
Severe symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Swelling of your throat and tongue
- Difficulty breathing or breathing very fast
- Difficulty swallowing, tightness in your throat or a hoarse voice
- Wheezing, coughing or noisy breathing
- Feeling tired or confused
- Feeling faint, dizzy or fainting
- Skin that feels cold to the touch
- Blue, grey or pale skin, lips or tongue – if you have brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet
Anaphylaxis and its symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency.
Follow these steps if you think you or someone you’re with is having an anaphylactic reaction:
- Use an adrenaline auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) if you have one – instructions are included on the side of the injector.
- Call 999 for an ambulance and say that you think you’re having an anaphylactic reaction.
- Lie down – you can raise your legs, and if you’re struggling to breathe, raise your shoulders or sit up slowly (if you’re pregnant, lie on your left side).
- If you have been stung by an insect, try to remove the sting if it’s still in the skin.
- If your symptoms have not improved after 5 minutes, use a second adrenaline auto-injector.
Do not stand or walk at any time, even if you feel better.
Sources: Allergy UK, NHS
It comes as the Food Standards Agency has issued a number of alerts for food products containing mustard powder, imported from India, which may have been contaminated with peanuts.
The food watchdog recalled dozens of foods and condiments they had reason to believe might be with peanuts not listed on the label.
Sold under various brand names and across a range of stores, recalled dips, sandwiches and salads contain mustard, which may have traces of peanuts.
“This means these products are a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts,” the Food Standard Agency (FSA) said.
“If you have bought any of the above products and have an allergy to peanuts, do not eat them.”
The alert was first issued when the food watchdog urged Brits with peanut allergies to avoid all mustard-containing products while they determined the source of the contamination.
Since then, they have published a full list of 64 products they believe have been contaminated, which was updated yesterday to include the Thiccc Sauce Meat Candy & Thiccc Sauce BBQ Sriracha.
Sold in convenience stores and off-licences, a number of SPAR sandwiches, wraps and pasta salads have been pulled from shelves too.
Other items included on the recent recall alert that may contain traces of peanuts include Fazilas wraps and Clayton Park sandwiches.
Peanut allergies are particularly common, affecting about one in 50 children in the UK, increasing in recent decades, according to Allergy UK.
Rebecca Sudworth, Director of Policy at the FSA, said: “This remains a complex investigation, and we are continuing to work with Food Standards Scotland, relevant businesses, local authorities, and agencies to ensure the necessary measures are in place to protect consumers.
“While our investigations continue our advice remains the same: people with a peanut allergy should continue to avoid consuming all foods that contain or may contain mustard, mustard seeds, mustard powder or mustard flour.
“Our current focus is to ensure all affected products have been withdrawn and recalled.
“Once this has taken place, we are confident we’ll be in a position to remove some of our additional advice for consumers, so they can continue to enjoy food that is safe and trust the product label and information accurately reflects the allergenic content.
“Until this happens it’s very important that people with a peanut allergy continue to avoid any product containing mustard or mustard ingredients.”
Full list of recalled products
- Thiccc Sauce Meat Candy
- Thiccc Sauce BBQ Sriracha
- En Route Macaroni Cheese
- Carlos Takeaway Garlic & Herb Dip
- Pro-Cook Macaroni Cheese
- Spa Macaroni Cheese
- Jack’s Macaroni Cheese
- Dominos The Big Dip – Garlic & Herb
- Dominos Garlic & Herb Dip
- Dominos Honey & Mustard Dip
- Jack’s Egg Mayonnaise Deli Filler
- Green Cuisine Mustard Powder
- Jack’s Potato Salad
- Jack’s Cheese & Onion Deli Filler
- Jack’s Coronation Chicken Deli Filler
- SPAR Coleslaw
- SPAR Chicken and Bacon Sandwich Filler
- SPAR Tuna and Sweetcorn Sandwich Filler
- SPAR Cheese and Onion Sandwich Filler
- SPAR Onion and Garlic Dip
- SPAR Sour Cream and Chive Dip
- Trailhead Fine Foods Get Jerky – BBQ Beef Jerky
- Jack’s Potato SPAR Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad
- SPAR Chicken and Bacon Pasta Salad
- SPAR Chicken, Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad
- SPAR Chicken, Honey and Mustard Pasta Salad
- SPAR BLT Sandwich
- SPAR Cheese Savoury Sandwich
- SPAR Chicken Club Sandwich
- SPAR Chicken Caesar Wrap
- SPAR Chicken Mayonnaise Sandwich
- SPAR Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Tim Horton’s BBQ Sauce dip
- SPAR Chicken and Bacon Sandwich
- SPAR Prawn Mayonnaise Sandwich
- SPAR Simply Tuna and Corn Sandwich
- SPAR Tuna Crunch Roll
- SPAR Tuna Mayonnaise Sandwich
- SPAR Tuna Wrap
- SPAR Cajun Chicken Wrap
- SPAR Chicken Tikka Wrap
- SPAR Hot and Spicy Cheese Wrap
- SPAR Sweet Chilli Chicken Wrap
- Fireaway BBQ Sauce Dip Pot
- Fazilas Chicken Tender Wrap
- Fazilas Chilli Cheese Wrap
- Fazilas Tandoori Chicken Wrap
- Clayton Park BLT
- Clayton Park Cheese Savoury Sandwich
- Clayton Park Chicken Club Sandwich
- Clayton Park Chicken Caesar Wrap
- Clayton Park Chicken Mayonnaise Sandwich
- Clayton Park Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Clayton Park Chicken and Bacon Sandwich
- Wisely Well Macaroni Cheese
- Clayton Park Prawn Mayonnaise Sandwich
- Clayton Park Simply Tuna Sandwich
- Clayton Park Tuna Crunch Roll
- Clayton Park Tuna Mayonnaise Sandwich
- Clayton Park Tuna Wrap
- Clayton Park Chicken Club Sandwich
- Parsley Box Macaroni Cheese
- Diet Chef Macaroni Cheese
- Jane Plan Macaroni Cheese
- Papa Johns Pizza Garlic and Herb Dip
- Papa Johns Pizza Vegan Ranch Dressing
Money
Little-known fridge cleaning trick that could save cash on your energy bills – and it costs just 40p
CLEANING is one of those jobs no one really enjoys doing, but sprucing up your fridge could actually save you cash.
That’s because if you neglect cleaning certain appliances, it’s not just unhygienic, but it can be costly too.
With energy bills rising by £149 annually for the average household at the beginning of this month, we’re all looking for ways to save.
And the key to saving cash could be giving your fridge a good scrub.
But only a fifth of households clean their fridge just twice a year, according to Lakeland’s Trends Report.
Some 18% of households clean their fridge twice a year, while 16% do it on an “ad hoc” basis only when it becomes noticeably dirty.
But kitchen experts actually advise that you should clean your fridge after every big supermarket shop.
Not only will this prevent bacteria from lurking, it can also help it to run more efficiently.
Simply cleaning and dusting the coils at the back of your fridge can slash energy consumption by up to 25%, according to Which?.
This is because dust on the coils can prevent the fridge from cooling properly.
You can vacuum away the dust and dirt to get your fridge freezer working more efficiently again which should bring down your energy usage.
You can prevent dirt and grime from clogging the coils by using reusable food covers to stop spills from opened packets or leftovers.
Covermate elasticated covers cost just £3.49 for a pack of eight from Lakeland. Or Tesco sells three reusable silicone lids for £3.
If you do have a spillage, it’s important to make sure that you clean it up straight away.
Flash kitchen cleaning spray costs at little as 40p at Morrisons.
Of course, it’s important to compare prices to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Supermarkets change their prices all the time, sometimes multiple times daily, so it’s worth checking you’re getting the best price.
You can use websites like Trolley to see how the major supermarket’s compare in terms of price on any number of goods.
How do I calculate my energy bill?
BELOW we reveal how you can calculate your own energy bill.
To calculate how much you pay for your energy bill, you must find out your unit rate for gas and electricity and the standing charge for each fuel type.
The unit rate will usually be shown on your bill in p/kWh.The standing charge is a daily charge that is paid 365 days of the year – irrespective of whether or not you use any gas or electricity.
You will then need to note down your own annual energy usage from a previous bill.
Once you have these details, you can work out your gas and electricity costs separately.
Multiply your usage in kWh by the unit rate cost in p/kWh for the corresponding fuel type – this will give you your usage costs.
You’ll then need to multiply each standing charge by 365 and add this figure to the totals for your usage – this will then give you your annual costs.
Divide this figure by 12, and you’ll be able to determine how much you should expect to pay each month from April 1.
Other tips to cut fridge freezer costs
If you don’t defrost the freezer compartment in your fridge regularly, it could add significantly to your bills.
The frost buildup increases the amount of work your freezer’s motor has to do.
And if the motor is working harder, then this means it’s using more energy.
You can chip away at any build-up once it starts to look a little glacial inside and then your energy bill won’t have to take such a hit.
It’s also important to clean the condenser coils on the back of the appliance, as dust on the coils can prevent the fridge from cooling properly.
Replace damaged door seals to ensure cold air cannot escape and be wasted and let food cool down completely before refrigerating.
New seals are often available online for £30 to £100.
If you’re looking to replace an old model with a new eco-friendly version you could also save on your energy bills each year.
It’s worth shopping around to make sure you’re getting the best model at the best price if you decide to go down this road.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
Money
Exact date thousands can apply for £200 extra payment to help with winter energy bills – check if you’re eligible
THOUSANDS of brits could pocket an extra £200 to help with soaring winter energy payments – check if you’re eligible.
The Household Support Fund offers families a helping hand when they may need it most, whether it’s with the food shop, school uniform or paying essential bills.
In September, the Department for Work and Pensions announced the HSF in Birmingham will be extended from October 2024 to March 2025.
Thousands may be eligible to claim the cash boost from Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC).
The £200 grant can be put towards household essentials including energy and food bills.
It won’t have an effect on any other benefits you may be receiving or be entitled to.
The payment is usually transferred directly into a bank account in the applicant’s name.
Who is eligible
According to Birmingham City Council, you must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- be a Birmingham resident
- be experiencing financial hardship, particularly with covering costs linked to food and energy
- not have received a £200 grant payment in the last 12 months
Each household is only eligible to receive one £200 grant payment in a 12 month period.
How to apply
To apply, those eligible need to complete the Hardship Grant Community Fund expression of interest form.
This can be accessed on the Birmingham City Council website under Cost of Living Support, Household Support Fund 2024 to 2025.
All applicants will be contacted via email with details of the next steps should they be accepted.
If you’re invited to apply, you will likely need to provide proof of your address and proof that you’re receiving means-tested benefits, if applicable.
Further support
Information can be accessed through these websites
What is the Household Support Fund?
Households in need can claim support to help with the cost of living via the Household Support Fund.
The funding is supplied from a £421million pot by the Department for Work and Pensions.
It was first introduced in October 2021 and has been extended five times.
Councils up and down the country get a portion of the cash to allocate to vulnerable households.
For example, Medway Council in Kent, South-East England, is offering thousands of households supermarket vouchers worth up to £225.
Some could qualify for electronic energy cards or e-vouchers to cover water bills worth £100 too.
Get in touch with your local council to see if you might be eligible for help.
You can find what council area you fall under by using the Government’s council locator tool on its website.
The help you can get varies depending on who your local council is, as well as your personal situation.
But you may be able to get free cash and vouchers to help pay for things like heating your home or to cover costs of your weekly grocery shop.
If an applicant is already receiving benefits, these will not be affected by the HSF.
And, you do not need to be getting benefits to receive vouchers or funds from the HSF.
Check with your local council to find out what support is available and the eligibility criteria.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you’re battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
And don’t delay, the scheme has been extended until April 2025 but your council may dish out their share of the Household Support Fund before this date.
Once the cash is gone, you may find they cannot provide any extra help so it’s crucial you apply as soon as possible.
Money
Warning to Halloween shoppers as two key ingredients skyrocket in price – check list of products to AVOID
SHOPPERS have been warned the rising costs of two ingredients will hike the price of chocolate this Halloween.
The ongoing cocoa crisis in West Africa and slump in sugar supplies means the cost of the key ingredients have soared.
As a result, chocolate prices have increased by more than 10% in the last three months.
The price of cocoa in London has skyrocketed by nearly 45% since the start of the year.
As of September, it sits at £5,302 per metric tonne, according to trade journal Confectionery News.
In April, it had reached a record high of £10,265.
Poor harvests caused by unusual weather means cocoa supplies in the likes of the Ivory Coast and Ghana – which produces approximately 60% of the world’s cocoa – remain tight.
Nidhi Jain, commodity specialist at The Smart Cube, told the trade journal it’s a “dramatic rise”.
“Looking ahead, these supply issues are highly likely to keep prices elevated in the run-up to Halloween,” she said.
The expert added that sugar prices are also expected to rise over the rest of 2024 “due to supply distributions”, particularly in Brazil and India.
“Given the volatile costs of these two commodities, there will be unavoidable affects on the consumer, with manufacturers considering price increases to confectionery products,” continued Jain.
“Higher prices for sweets and chocolates seem inevitable as commodity costs rise.”
SUPERMARKET HIKE
The price of chocolate has risen by 11% in the year to August, according to a study by the consumer group Which?
This is compared to other food and drink products which grew by 2.7% over the same period.
These hikes can be seen in supermarkets’ own brand ranges and from manufacturers such as Cadbury and Mars.
Chocolate treats to avoid
The cost of Sainsbury’s No Added Sugar Milk Chocolate (100g) has almost doubled, rising from 95p in the three months to the end of August 2023 to £1.84 in the same period in 2024.
Meanwhile, Asda’s Moo Free Dairy Free & Vegan Chocolate Bar (80g) rose from £1.50 to £2.40, marking an increase of 60%.
Cadbury’s Family Treatsize Multipack, which is a classic to have at the door for trick or treaters increased from £2.50 to £3.72 at Sainsbury.
Meanwhile, the Cadbury Milk Tray Chocolate Box (360g) rose from £4.01 to £5.74 at Morrisons.
Twix Caramel & White Chocolate Fingers Biscuit Snack Bars Multipack, which come in a pack of nine increased from £1.65 to £2.35 at Asda.
An Asda spokesman said the supermarket is “consistently recognised as the best-value traditional supermarket in independent price comparison surveys”.
While a Morrisons spokeswoman said the company was “working hard to keep prices down and competitive for our customers”.
Sainsbury’s said: “While prices can go up and down for a range of reasons, we’re committed to offering our customers great choice and value when they shop with us.”
SHOP AROUND
Ele Clark, retail editor at Which?, explained that to ensure you get the best value for money on your Halloween chocolate, “shop around and compare the price per gram across different pack sizes, retailers and brands.”
This is known as unit pricing and is an easier way for shoppers to compare similar items of different sizes.
You should be able to see the product’s unit price where its price tag is shown – it may be in small print.
It displays the cost of different products by weight, or volume and helps you easily compare the prices of products, regardless of their respective sizes.
For example, Tesco is charging £1.29 per 100g for a four-pack of Twirls.
However, the supermarket charges £1.10 per 100g if you snap it up using the Tesco Clubcard.
How to save money on chocolate
We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…
Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.
Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.
Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.
Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.
They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.
Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.
So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.
Money
Rachel Reeves Budget plan could see one million workers facing pay cut
ONE MILLION workers could be set for a pay cut under Rachel Reeves’ budget “painful” budget plan.
The Chancellor could extend the freeze on income tax thresholds in this month’s Autumn Statement.
In a bid to fill a £40billion black hole in the public purse, Rachel Reeves may be considering pushing the freeze beyond its current expiry date of 2028.
The move could raise £7billion , according to reports by the Financial Times.
Labour’s manifesto promised not to increase rates of income tax, but included no mention of tax thresholds.
Other measures reported to be under consideration include:
The Treasury has so far declined to comment on Budget speculation.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) think tank said that extending the freeze would pull 400,000 more people into paying income tax, according to The Times.
Plus, another 600,000 could be dragged into paying higher and additional rates by 2029-30 as wages rise.
This means a total of one million workers could be dragged into paying higher rates.
Freezing thresholds is a form of stealth tax – and helps governments generate higher tax revenue in a way that isn’t as obvious as a threshold change.
A person earning £50,000 a year now, who gets annual pay increases of 2%, will be earning about £55,000 by 2029-30.
This will have pulled them into the higher-rate tax band, making their income tax bill nearly £1,000 higher than if they paid the basic rate on their income, the newspaper said.
When asked about possible tax changes during a press conference in Berlin, Sir Keir Starmer said: “We are going to keep our manifesto pledges.”
He added: “I’m not going to pre-empt the individual measures that will be outlined by the Chancellor in due course.”
He went on: “This is going to be a Budget that will fix the foundations and rebuild our country.”
Predictions for the Autumn Statement
The Sun’s Head of Consumer Tara Evans reveals the top predictions for the Autumn Statement:
Winter Fuel Payments
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has already announced that Winter Fuel Payments will be limited to those receiving pension credit and certain benefits. The benefit is worth up to £300 per year and currently is available to everyone over state pension age and those on certain benefits.
No rises to some taxes
Keir Starmer promised there would be no rises to National Insurance, Income Tax, Corporation Tax or VAT as part of Labour’s manifesto in the election race.
Inheritance Tax
It has been predicted that the Chancellor Racheal Reeves will make changes to inheritance tax rates or thresholds. One suggestion is the potential shortening of the gift period before death for tax exemptions.
Pensions
Pensions featured very high up in the King’s Speech, was this a hint at how high on the agenda it will feature in the budget? Experts say there are a number of options, including reintroducing the lifetime allowance cap. Ms Reeves has previously campaigned to reduce the tax relief that higher earners get on their pensions and to introduce a flat rate of 33% instead. Another possible option is changing the rules around pensions and inheritance tax.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
There is speculation that the £3,000 tax-free allowance could be scrapped or there may be an extension of CGT to other assets.
Business Rates
There are rumours of reforms to support small businesses, possibly basing rates on land value.
Fuel Duty
Possible rise in fuel duty, reversing the freeze since 2011 and impacting household costs. The Sun has backed drivers as part of its Keep It Down campaign since the start of 2011.
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If you earn £12,570 or less, you currently pay no income tax.
On earnings between £12,570 and up to £50,270, you pay the basic income tax rate of 20%.
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And the additional rate of income tax, which applies to earnings above £150,000, is 45%.
The thresholds for income tax generally rise each year so that people can earn more without paying more tax.
However, the thresholds are now frozen until 2028, but this could be extended in the Budget.
What else could be revealed in the Budget?
The Autumn Statement will take place at around midday on Wednesday, October 30.
Multiple changes to inheritance tax are being considered by ministers.
It is not certain how many people will end up paying more money, nor how much more they might pay.
The levy does not affect the vast majority of the public at the moment, with only 4% of deaths resulting in an inheritance tax charge as the threshold for the 40% charge is an estate above £325,000.
The Chancellor is also expected to honour the previous Tory government’s plans to make around £3 billion of cuts to welfare by reforming work capability rules in the Budget.
Ms Reeves is also said to be considering bringing a stamp duty discount introduced by the Tories to an end, the Times reports, which is expected to raise £1.8 billion a year by 2029.
Other reports suggest a tax on vapes could be raised, and that fuel duty could be hiked for the first time in 14 years.
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Money
Budget fashion chain with 345 branches shuts shop ‘that’s been there forever’ TODAY leaving shoppers ‘absolutely gutted’
SHOPPERS are “absolutely gutted” as a fashion chain with 345 branches shuts a beloved store for good today.
Fans of the budget retailer cried “nothing will be left” as their County Durham high street waved goodbye to another shop.
The Peacocks store, located in Consett, sadly announced their closure date last month.
A message plastered to the window read: “As of September 22 there will be no further refunds done at this store.
“This is due to store closure on October 19, 2024.”
They went out with bang and offered a 30% discount on all goods before the shutters were permanently pulled down.
For those who still want to shop at Peacocks after the closure, their nearest outlet can be found in Bishop Auckland.
It appears a Farplace charity shop will be moving in to take the place of Peacocks.
News of the closure prompted huge reaction on social media, with many expressing their disappointment.
One member of the Facebook group ‘The Consett Chatterbox’ stated: “Absolutely gutted loved Peacock’s especially with Christmas coming up.
“They always had lovely stock in, ridiculous that Consett’s losing yet another good shop.”
Another local questioned the decision saying: “Absolutely crazy it’s been there forever, love Peacocks, why can’t they just move somewhere else in Consett?
“There’s plenty of empty shops?”
Someone else added: “Nothing going to be left. Our high street now is so very run down.”
“Unfortunately another retailer going. Use it or Lose it’ springs to mind,” another member replied.
“What an absolute shame,” agreed a fourth.
“Another to bite the dust,” penned another.
One member added: “They went into administration a few years ago and were saved. Nothing going to be left in our high street not just Consett everywhere is suffering.”
In July earlier this year Peacocks announced they would be strategically closing stores as they launched a new website.
The fashion retailer revealed an annual turnover of £238million for the year to February 2023, with £14.65million in profits for the same period.
The company said the hike in profits was due to an investment in its store estate, which saw the opening of new stores in “key retail locations” and the strategic closure of stores on high streets where ”the impact of the pandemic has been irreversible”.
Group CEO Steve Simpson said: “In the last two years, we have been focused on a strategy of offering our customers exceptional quality and value for the whole family.
“With the backdrop of a cost-of-living crisis, we have been committed to offering our customers even better products than we have done before, still at low prices.
Retailers closing stores in 2024
RETAILERS have been hit by soaring inflation and a downturn in spending due to the cost of living crisis.
High energy costs and a move to shopping online are also taking their toll.
Some high street shops have closed due to businesses opening up in different locations such as larger retail parks.
Shops may also close due to a number of other reasons, such as rising rents.
We explain which retailers are closing in 2024:
- Argos – The brand announced plans to close 100 standalone UK branches last year as it looks to move away from the high street and focus on expanding its presence in supermarkets.
- B&Q – The chain has over 300 shops across the UK, with two stores closing this year due to leases not being renewed. It has plans to open more in 2024 too.
- Boots – The health and beauty chain announced that it would be closing 300 stores last July. Closures are ongoing and this will see the retailer’s estate reduced from 2,200 to 1,900 shops.
- Clintons – Clintons mulled plans to close 38 shops in a bid to avoid insolvency late last year. We’ve listed the stores affected.
- Costa Coffee – The caffeine giant has around 2,000 sites nationwide, so chances are you’ll have one near you. The chain has shut the doors to dozens of its sites recently. We’ve revealed which stores are due to close this year.
- Iceland – The supermarket has more than 900 stores but closed nearly two dozen sites in 2023, and more selected shops are due to shut.
- Lidl – The supermarket, which has 950 stores, is changing up shop locations, which has meant that some stores have to close. But the retailer is also looking to open 12 new supermarkets.
- M&S – M&S, which runs 405 stores across the country, has been closing a string of branches across the country in a blow for shoppers. It’s not all bad news, though, because the chain also has big plans to open dozens of new shops.
- Trespass – The firm announced in July last year that it was closing six branches, but more are on the way.
- WHSmith – The retail giant, which runs over 1,100 stores, has shut eight stores since March 2023, but more are coming.
“We have welcomed into the Peacocks family our stylish celebrity ambassadors of Louise Redknapp and Michael Owen.
“Their style credentials have resonated strongly with our customers and helped improve our style perception, delivering strong growth in their ranges across ladieswear, menswear and lingerie.
“As we celebrate our 140th year we remain focused on expanding our product offering to our valued customers.”
Peacocks was originally bought out of administration in 2021, saving 2,000 jobs.
The brand was saved by investors led by Edinburgh Woollen Mill’s chief operating officer Steve Simpson.
It comes as closures have rocked high streets across the UK in recent years.
Devastated shoppers cried “what a tragedy” as a beloved shop of 33 years is set to pull down the shutters for good.
Czerwik Fine Wines & Cheeses, in the Brighouse town centre, West Yorkshire, has been a hailed part of the high street for decades.
Fans were saddened to learn the store would be waving goodbye forever on December 31.
Elsewhere, a much-loved tea room is being forced to close having been in business for 34 “happy and successful” years.
The family-run Two Hoots Tea Room is situated in one of Wales’ most-visited tourist spots and they say they are devastated after they were ordered to pull down the shutters for good.
Meanwhile, customers were left devastated after a family-run clothing shop was forced to close after 144 years.
And, closures are affecting various industries across different sectors as a historic city brewery, with a legacy spanning 150 years, is also set to close.
The Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC) has confirmed plans to close Wolverhampton’s Banks’s Brewery.
Why the high street still rules!
Fabulous’ Fashion Director, Tracey Lea Sayer shares her thoughts.
I WAS 10 when I first discovered the utter joy of high street shopping for clothes with my mum and nan.
Going into town on Saturday became a family tradition – a girls’ day out we would look forward to all week.
My mum’s favourite shop was M&S, where she would gaze at jackets with big shoulder pads and floral sundresses, while my nan would make a beeline for John Lewis and their classic coats and elegant court shoes.
I was all over Tammy Girl – Etam’s little sister – and Chelsea Girl, which was later rebranded to high street fave River Island.
I would spend hours in the changing rooms, watched keenly by my two cheerleaders, who gave the thumbs up – or thumbs down – on what I was trying on.
Frilly Ra-Ra skirts, duster coats, polka dot leggings, puff balls, boob tubes… I tried them all, often making my nan howl with laughter.
Fashion wasn’t so fast back in the 1980s and every item was cherished and worn until it fell apart – literally – at the seams.
At 18, I went to art college and my tastes became more refined.
Extra cash from a part-time job in a bar meant I could move on to slightly more expensive stores, like Warehouse, Miss Selfridge and the mecca that was Topshop.
I knew at this point I wanted to work in fashion because the high street had totally seduced me.
One day, I wrote an article for a competition in a glossy mag about my love of retail therapy and my favourite LBD – and I won!
That led me to where I am today – Fashion Director of Fabulous.
It’s not just me that loves the high street – big-name designers are fans, too. When ‘Cool Britannia’ hit in the Nineties, they all turned up in one big store.
‘Designers at Debenhams’ was a stroke of genius by Debenhams CEO Belinda Earl, designer Ben de Lisi and fashion director Spencer Hawken, who introduced diffusion ranges from John Rocha, Matthew Williamson and Betty Jackson to name a few.
This meant we could all afford a bit of luxury and wear a well-known designer’s signature style.
Years later I hosted a night with Debenhams and Fabulous for 250 readers, who were in awe meeting all the designers. It was a real career highlight for me.
In 2004, H&M started rolling out their international designer collabs.
Karl Lagerfeld was first, followed by Roberto Cavalli, Marni, Stella McCartney, Maison Martin Margiela, Sonia Rykiel, Comme des Garçons, Balmain, Versace and many, many more. I could barely contain myself!
Then in 2007, Kate Moss launched her first collection with Topshop, with thousands queuing along London’s Oxford Street.
I remember sitting behind Ms Moss and Topshop boss Philip Green at a London Fashion Week Topshop Unique catwalk show.
I had my three-year-old daughter, Frankie, in tow and we both made the news the next day after we were papped behind Kate, my supermodel girl crush.
At the time, the high street was on fire. Who needed designer buys when Mango stocked tin foil trousers just like the designer Isabel Marant ones and you could buy a bit of Barbara Hulanicki’s legendary brand Biba from Topshop?
High street stores even started to storm London Fashion week.
Although Topshop Unique had shown collections since 2001, in 2013 River Island showed its first collection in collaboration with global superstar Rihanna, who was flown in by a friend of mine on a private jet. KER-CHING!
A whole new generation of high profile high street collabs followed.
Beyoncé created Ivy Park with Topshop’s Philip Green and I even flew to LA for Fabulous to shoot the Kardashian sisters in their bodycon “Kollection” for Dorothy Perkins.
I am pleased to say they were the absolute dream cover stars.
Fast forward to 2024 and while the high street doesn’t look exactly like it did pre-Covid, it has made a gallant comeback.
Stores like M&S, Reserved and Zara, and designer collabs like Victoria Beckham X Mango and Rochelle Humes for Next are giving me all the feels.
The supermarkets have really come into their own, too, smashing it with gorgeous collections that look expensive, but at prices that still allow us to afford the weekly shop.
The last 30 years of high street fashion have been one big adventure for me. Bring on the next 30!
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