Menopause Conference to Empower Women and Employers in the Workplace

Menopause Conference to Empower Women and Employers in the Workplace

The inaugural Menopause NI Conference is set to take place on Friday 18 October in Belfast. Coinciding with World Menopause Day, it aims to bring together women and employers to understand and address the unique challenges faced by women experiencing menopause in the workplace.

The one-day event in the Clayton Hotel on Ormeau Avenue, will serve as a platform for education, discussion, and collaboration, focusing on what women need from their employers during this pivotal life stage. 

The event is being hosted by Siobhan Kearney, founder of Menopause NI. Siobhan has been working extensively with businesses across Northern Ireland to create more awareness of the impact menopause can have on women in the workplace. She has carried out research into women’s experiences of menopause in Northern Ireland and created the first Menopause Manifesto highlighting what support women need when they are experiencing menopause symptoms.  

Siobhan Kearney said, “For most women menopause is a natural phase of life that every woman will experience, yet it remains a topic that is often misunderstood or overlooked in the workplace. Our goal with the Menopause NI Conference is to bring this issue to the forefront, encouraging open dialogue and actionable solutions that benefit both women and employers.”

Siobhan will also be joined by GP Dr. Latimer who is an Occupational Health Doctor, Primary Care Women’s Health and Menopause Specialist. Her extensive experience with a focus on holistic care and women’s health in the workplace, positions her perfectly to address the challenges of menopause for both employers and employees.

Also speaking and delivering interactive workshops at the event will be Michelle McGinley from the Employers Federation, personal trainer and Menopause Coach, Geraldine McAleenan, author and founder of Be Inspired to Be, Belinda O’Neill and nutritionist Jane McClenaghan. Menopause advocate and BBC NI’s health correspondent Marie Louise Connolly will be facilitating the event. 

“By attending the Menopause NI Conference, employers will gain valuable insights into how they can better support their employees, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and productive work environment. Women, on the other hand, will thrive at work knowing that their needs are being acknowledged and addressed. Siobhan added.

For more information about the Menopause NI Conference and to register, please visit www.menopauseni.com

Thousands Flock to Farms During Awareness Initiative

The local farming community celebrated another success as almost 15,000 visitors from across Northern Ireland flocked to 18 farms across Friday to Sunday for Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend. 

The event, run by the Ulster Farmers’ Union, with the support of title sponsor Bank of Ireland, platinum sponsor NFU Mutual, School’s Day sponsor ASDA and event sponsors Moy Park, the Livestock and Meat Commission NI, Thompsons and the Irish Farmers’ Journal, is one of the biggest awareness initiatives to reconnect consumers with farms and farm producers, as well as showcasing the excellent work farmers do to maintain animal welfare and care for their environment.

Over the course of the event, school children and the general public got to meet friendly and knowledgeable farm hosts, were up close and personal with a variety of animals, and experienced the joys of life on a working farm. 

William Irvine, president for the Ulster Farmers’ Union and Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend chairmansaid, “We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the visitors who took part in the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, making it an unforgettable experience for all involved. The event’s success would not have been possible without the generous support of the sponsors, whose contribution played a vital role in ensuring its smooth operation. Furthermore, we would like to pass on special thanks to the farm hosts who opened their gates and warmly welcomed guests, sharing their wealth of knowledge and showcasing their passion for farming.”

Richard Primrose, Agri-Business Manager, Bank of Ireland UK said, “Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend has been a real celebration of our farming and food community and we are delighted to have welcomed so many visitors to the participating farms over the weekend. We are proud to help provide a unique experience, through Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, to bring consumers behind the gate to see the energy and pride behind our thriving agri-food industry. A huge thank you also to each of the farms who so warmly welcomed every visitor to their working farm.”

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The LMC Encourages the Public to Sample Farm Quality Assured Beef and Lamb During Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend

The LMC Encourages the Public to Sample Farm Quality Assured Beef and Lamb During Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend

The Livestock and Meat Commission for Northern Ireland (LMC), a sponsor of Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2024, is encouraging the public to take the opportunity to try Farm Quality Assured Beef and Lamb when they are visiting farms during the weekend.  

Scheduled to take place from Friday 14-Sunday 16 June, the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend invites schools and the public to explore local farms and gain insight into the agricultural industry. 

The LMC in its role as sponsor, will have signature kitchens and demonstrators cooking easy to follow recipes using the best quality lamb and beef on a selection of farms on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June. There will also be a virtual cookery demonstration showing the ‘farm to fork’ message on Friday 14 June consisting of an LMC cookery demonstration, with a fun and interactive recipe which pupils can make at home. 

Through its sponsorship, LMC aims to elevate the profile of Farm Quality Assured beef and lamb, emphasising their superior quality and sustainability. The commission’s involvement in the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend underscores its commitment to promoting transparency and consumer education within the agricultural sector.

Colin Smith, Chief Executive of the Livestock and Meat Commission, pictured on participating farm, Beatties Glenpark Farm near Omagh, emphasised the significance of this collaboration, stating, “As a champion of the local agri-food industry, LMC is delighted to support the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend. This event offers a unique opportunity for consumers to connect with farmers and learn about the journey of their food, from farm to fork. By highlighting Farm Quality Assured beef and lamb, we aim to raise awareness of the exceptional standards maintained by Northern Ireland’s farming community.”

Nineteen farms will open their gates to the public this year in a bid to help the public, particularly those from a non-farming background, better understand how our food is produced and to raise awareness of the importance of the local supply chain. 

William Irvine, deputy president of the Ulster Farmers’ Union who organise the initiative said “Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend was established to showcase our farming industry and the wonderful work our farmers do. The LMC has supported the initiative for many years and as well as the financial support this year, the organisation has very kindly provided Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured beef and lamb cookery demonstrations on selected farms and we are looking forward to enjoying this again in June.”

Ireland’s Premier Ecommerce Event Returned to Belfast

Ireland’s Premier Ecommerce Event Returned to Belfast

Ireland’s premier ecommerce event, eComm Live returned on Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 May, 2024, at Assembly Buildings, Belfast. 

Recognised as the largest gathering of ecommerce professionals on the island of Ireland, eComm Live offered attendees two days of engaging keynote sessions, panel discussions, training, and networking opportunities designed to empower businesses and individuals to thrive in the digital marketplace.

Kevin Traynor, founder of eComm Live, expressed his excitement about this year’s event, stating, “We’re thrilled to unveil the full lineup of speakers for eComm Live 2024. With ecommerce and retail leaders sharing their insights and expertise, attendees can expect a wealth of inspiration and practical advice to propel their online retail endeavours forward.”

Speakers at the event on May 2 at Assembly Buildings in Belfast include Jamie Laing, co-founder of Candy Kittens, Daniel Green, head of digital marketing at global fitness apparel giant Gymshark, Aimee Connolly, founder & CEO of Irish cosmetics powerhouse Sculpted by Aimee, and Carrie Rose, founder of digital PR agency, Rise at Seven.

Sealed with a Twist -New Premium Drinks Brand, Clearer Twist Launches in Belfast

Sealed with a Twist -New Premium Drinks Brand, Clearer Twist Launches in Belfast

Clearer Twist, the premium mixer with a twist, chose Belfast to launch three new products from its latest range, and set an ambitious target of bottling 10 million units of the drinks this year. 

The three mixers – Clearer Twist Premium Tonic, Clearer Twist French Pink and Clearer Twist Ginger Ale, came straight from the production line after almost two years in the making and well-known faces from the world of sport, media and hospitality were among the first to try the hotly anticipated drinks. 

Developed by the same company that introduced Clearer Water, a social impact company that champions a diverse and inclusive workforce, Clearer Twist is ready to hit hotels, bars and restaurants across Northern Ireland, Cyprus and Turkey this summer, allowing customers the chance to experience the unique flavours first-hand. 

Crafted with high Alkaline water boasting a pH of 9.4, Clearer Twist stands out in the market by offering reduced sugar and calories without compromising on the pure, refreshing, and delightful taste it delivers, just “Twist Pour Enjoy”.

Founder, global CEO/co-chairman, Ross Lazaroo-Hood and founder, co-chairman Sitki Gelmen, spearheaded the creation of Clearer Twist. Drawing from their deep knowledge of the beverage industry, they recognised the need for the ultimate mixer and invested heavily in product development and marketing to bring their vision to life.

Inspired by their respective cultures, they designed Clearer Twist in Northern Ireland and springs from Turkey, resulting in a mixer that can be enjoyed on its own or combined with premium spirits to create a naturally sweet alcoholic beverage.

Ross Lazaroo-Hood, speaking on behalf of Clearer Twist, expressed his excitement about the company’s future: “We know the premium mixer industry is a busy market, but our significant investment in product development and marketing represents our unwavering commitment to revolutionise the drinking experience for consumers in Ireland, GB and now into Europe. 

“Clearer Twist is poised to set new standards with its exquisite taste, reduced sugar content, and dedication to uncompromising quality. We are proud to introduce a mixer that surpasses expectations and delivers pure enjoyment. As we at Clearer Twist say, “Twist Pour Enjoy” .”

Clearer Twist offers a range of flavours, including:

Clearer Twist Premium Tonic: Elevate your drinking experience with the great taste of our premium tonic. Expertly balanced and naturally sweet, it is the perfect companion for top-shelf gins. Whether used as a mixer or enjoyed over crushed ice, our Premium Tonic will invigorate and delight your taste buds. It is a classic for a reason.

Clearer Twist French Pink: Transport yourself to the sun-soaked Côte d’Azur with Clearer Twist French Pink. Indulge in the sweet essence of raspberry infused with a hint of rose, creating a vibrant and refreshing profile. With fewer calories and less sugar, Clearer Twist French Pink offers a guilt-free alternative to pink gin or vodka cocktails, providing all the great taste you desire.

Clearer Twist Ginger Ale: Embark on a flavour journey of fiery and sweet sensations with Clearer Twist Ginger Ale. Effervescent and bursting with incredible taste, our Ginger Ale strikes the perfect balance between zest and sweetness. Crafted with high alkaline water, it retains the perfect balance between zest and sweetness. The beloved flavour that makes Ginger Ale so popular today from its creation in Belfast back in 1851 is found perfectly here in Clearer Twist. 

IRP Commerce brings E-commerce Profits Front and Centre

IRP Commerce brings E-commerce Profits Front and Centre

IRP V9 launches new technology to fill a critical accounting gap in e-commerce

Pulse PR was delighted to support Belfast-based e-commerce platform provider IRP Commerce when it launched the latest version of its successful Commerce Cloud technology.

“IRP Version 9 is designed for a time where e-commerce success simply means merchant profits”, says Dan Loughlin, Chief Executive Officer for IRP Commerce. 

IRP continues its investment in the Northern Ireland e-commerce economy. With over £2 billion in sales for local companies to 170 countries, IRP is a home-grown success story. IRP continues to believe that Northern Ireland can become an e-commerce powerhouse.

Some of Ireland’s well-known brands run their online businesses on IRP technology.  Household names such as Argento, Newbridge Silverware, Belleek, DV8, Evolve, Best Menswear, Magee 1866 and Old Mill Saddlery.

Speaking at the product launch event in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, where IRP are based, Dan Loughlin, commented, “IRP technology has filled a critical accounting gap in e-commerce. This innovation means that net profits are predictable in real time. eGross Profit becomes a new real time number that signals profitable trading. 

Pictured is IRP Commerce chief executive officer and founder Daniel Loughlin.