BusinessIn Wales

Event Special, Technology & Innovation

Vodafone Business named headline partner for inaugural Wales Fintech Festival

Vodafone Business named headline partner for inaugural Wales Fintech Festival Vodafone Business named headline partner for inaugural Wales Fintech Festival Max Taylor – journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  FinTech Wales has announced Vodafone Business as headline partner for the Wales Fintech Festival, taking place on 3 June 2026 at the Swansea Building Society Arena. Vodafone Business, the enterprise division of the newly merged VodafoneThree, is investing £605 million in network infrastructure across Wales to strengthen connectivity and accelerate the rollout of 5G services in its ongoing commitment to the country. The investment is expected to improve rural coverage and support digital infrastructure for sectors including healthcare, education, emergency services and local government, while providing businesses with enhanced connectivity to support growth and innovation. This programme could generate £4 billion in economic benefits for Wales by 2035 which will support organisations and create new opportunities across Wales. Vodafone Business joins a growing list of festival partners and sponsors, including Creditsafe, Confused.com, de Novo Solutions, NatWest, Mastercard, Final Rentals, Mobilise Cloud, Development Bank of Wales, Capital Law and Philip Hare & Associates. The festival, created by and for the FinTech Wales community, will feature panel discussions, showcase talks, a future talent programme and an Innovative Finance Pitch360 session. Anne Boden MBE, founder and former CEO of Starling Bank, has already been confirmed as a headline speaker, with further announcements expected in the coming weeks. Nick Gliddon, Business Director, VodafoneThree, said: “Wales is at a pivotal moment for fintech, with innovation accelerating across the ecosystem. Reliable, high‑performance networks are the foundation that help fintech firms to scale, collaborate and deliver impactful solutions. “At Vodafone Business, we’re proud to support events like Wales Fintech Festival that bring together startups, scale‑ups and established organisations shaping the future of financial services.” Sarah Jones, CEO of FinTech Wales, said: “Having a global brand like Vodafone as our headline partner highlights the increasing international recognition of Wales as a centre for fintech innovation. It’s such a strong endorsement of both the innovation and momentum we’re seeing across the Welsh fintech sector.  “Partnerships like this are vital in creating meaningful connections and opportunities for growth, and Vodafone’s expertise in connectivity and digital transformation aligns perfectly with the needs of our members and the wider industry.” “The Wales Fintech Festival is about bringing people together to share ideas, challenge thinking and inspire the next phase of growth. Vodafone’s support strengthens our ability to deliver an event that is both impactful and representative of the ecosystem we’ve built in Wales.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Event Special, Technology & Innovation

Leading UK supplier celebrates win at Wales Business Awards

Leading UK supplier celebrates win at Wales Business Awards Leading UK supplier celebrates win at Wales Business Awards max taylor – journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Premier Forest, a nationwide timber supplier, won the Manufacturer of the Year award at the Wales Business Awards 2026. Held at the Holland House Hotel in Cardiff, the awards celebrate achievement across sectors including manufacturing, sustainability and inclusive employment. Premier Forest won the award with recognition given to the development of its business division, PWIDF Fire Door Solutions. PWIDF Fire Door Solutions specialises in the design and manufacture of compliant fire door systems and supplies architectural hardware, supported by full membership of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers. The division impressed the judges with its certified fire door sets, which combine fire resistance, smoke control and security within a scalable production system. Judges also highlighted the business’s focus on engineering, quality control and specialist expertise within healthcare and mental health environments, alongside its commitment to skills development, community engagement and industry safety standards. Dave Timson, PWIDF Brand Director, said: “Taking home this award is a proud moment for PWIDF. We’ve dedicated ourselves to creating high-quality, durable, and thoughtfully designed solutions, with safety at the core especially for environments that may need it most such as healthcare, mental health, and education. “This award is a testament not only to the strength of what we deliver, but to the relentless hard work and commitment of our team. It reflects the people behind PWIDF, whose pursuit of excellence continues to drive us forward.” Terry Edgell, Co-founder & CEO of Premier Forest Products, said: “Being recognised at the Wales Business Awards is a tremendous honour and a significant milestone for us. I’m proud to see the commitment, drive, and ambition of our entire team acknowledged in this way. “This recognition means a great deal to us, and while we take a moment to celebrate this achievement, we remain firmly focused on the future continuing to grow, innovate, and deliver exceptional value in everything we do.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Event Special, Technology & Innovation

Wearable technology designer wins Best Start up Business of the Year at the Welsh Business Awards

Wearable technology designer wins Best Start up Business of the Year at the Welsh Business Awards Wearable technology designer wins Best Start up Business of the Year at the Welsh Business Awards max taylor – journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Spacebands has been recognised for its innovation by winning Best Start Up Business of the Year at the Welsh Business Awards. Organised by Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, the award recognises young businesses that are demonstrating growth, potential, and early commercial success. Founded in Cardiff, spacebands develops wearable technology designed to help organisations monitor workplace hazards. Its multi-sensor devices track risks including hand-arm vibration, excessive noise, machinery proximity and PPE compliance, alerting users when unsafe conditions are detected. The company said adoption of the technology is underway across several major safety-critical organisations, including Network Rail, M Group Highways, Kier Group and Balfour Beatty. Following early growth, the business exceeded its £600,000 seed funding target, securing £1 million in an investment round led by a US venture capital firm. Spacebands co-founder Harry Kimberley-Bowen said: “We launched the business in 2020 supplying contact tracing devices during the pandemic before evolving the company in late 2021 to focus on workplace health and safety wearables. It’s been a fast-paced few years, but incredibly rewarding. “We’re incredibly proud of the strong feedback we receive from customers, both for our products and the insights provided through our data, and we are honoured to be recognised for this award. It’s testament to the hard work and passion of the whole team.”     Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Event Special, Technology & Innovation

Anne Boden confirmed as headline speaker at Wales Fintech Festival

Anne Boden confirmed as headline speaker at Wales Fintech Festival Anne Boden confirmed as headline speaker at Wales Fintech Festival max taylor – journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Anne Boden MBE, founder and former CEO of Starling Bank, has been confirmed as a headline speaker at this year’s Wales Fintech Festival. Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most influential fintech leaders, Boden will share her insights from her career and perspectives on the future of financial services at the Swansea Building Society Arena on 3 June. Originally from Swansea, her appearance marks a return to her roots, bringing her experience to a new generation of fintech talent in Wales. The inaugural Wales Fintech Festival takes place next month, created by and for the FinTech Wales community. Ticket information and further details for the event can be found on the Fintech Wales website. Anne Boden MBE said: “I’m excited to join the celebration of the Wales Fintech Festival and to be part of such a dynamic and fast-growing community. Wales is producing some brilliant businesses and entrepreneurs, and it’s inspiring to see the level of innovation and ambition across the sector. Building Starling Bank showed me what’s possible when you challenge the status quo, and I hope sharing my experiences can encourage others to think differently, take risks and shape the future of financial services.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Event Special, Tourism & Travel

Cardiff Airport named official partner of Cardiff Half Marathon

Cardiff Airport named official partner of Cardiff Half Marathon Cardiff Airport named official partner of Cardiff Half Marathon max taylor – journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Cardiff Airport has been announced as an official partner of the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon. The collaboration connects Wales’ major airport with its largest mass participation events. Both organisations share the ambitions of showcasing Cardiff internationally while delivering economic and social value. Organisers said the partnership aligns with the race’s focus on community impact. Surplus funds from the event will support the Run 4 Wales Charitable Foundation, which invests in grassroots sport and community projects. The Cardiff Half Marathon, part of the SuperHalfs series alongside events in Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen and Valencia, has seen an increase in international participation every year. Cardiff Airport currently offers 39 direct routes, including European destinations and a new transatlantic service to Toronto with WestJet launching in May, supporting increased connectivity for inbound and outbound travel for Welsh runners and Cardiff half participants. Celebrating the partnership, Cardiff Half announced on their Instagram that they are offering followers the chance to win a £100 flight voucher. Matt Newman, Chief Executive at Run 4 Wales, said: “We’re really excited to welcome Cardiff Airport as an official partner of the Cardiff Half Marathon. Like us, it shares the vision of showcasing our fantastic city to the rest of the world. We’re very much looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this new collaboration as we take off on this new chapter together.” Jon Bridge, CEO of Cardiff Airport, said: “We are incredibly proud to be partnering with the Cardiff Half Marathon. It’s a flagship event for Wales and one that brings huge energy and visibility to Cardiff each year. We’re delighted to play our part in welcoming participants and spectators from across the UK and beyond, showcasing not only the city but also the warm Welsh welcome and the growing connectivity that Cardiff Airport provides.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Charities Special, Event Special

Poppies with a purpose to mark return of city hospice campaign at Cardiff Castle

Poppies with a purpose to mark return of city hospice campaign at Cardiff Castle Poppies with a purpose to mark return of city hospice campaign at Cardiff Castle max taylor – journalist Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Pink poppies will appear at Cardiff Castle this summer as City Hospice launches its 2026 Forever Flowers campaign. The initiative, now in its sixth year, has chosen pink poppies as their 2026 Forever Flowers due to its symbolism of love, peace and compassion. The flowers are created by the British Ironwork Centre and will form a temporary tribute across the Castle grounds in the first week of August. The limited-edition poppies are on-sale now £28 and supporters are encouraged to purchase one as a way of commemorating loved ones.  A Celebration of Life event will be held in the same week, on the 6th August, featuring performances from the Super Rock Choir at the DEPOT venue. Following the event, supporters will be able to collect their poppies, with engraving services available at selected Timpson stores in Cardiff at a reduced cost. Proceeds from the campaign go towards the important work of City Hospice, Cardiff’s provider of home-based specialist palliative care, which delivers services including welfare advice, complementary therapies and bereavement support. The initiative is sponsored by Green Willow Funerals and supported by Dragon Signs, Eversheds Sutherland, McLays, Premier Forest Group, Quantum Advisory, and Wales & West Housing Association. The campaign continues to draw support from families who have received care from the hospice.  Rhodri Beynon, from Rhiwbina, is supporting the initiative in memory of his father Richard, who sadly passed away late last year following a lymphoma diagnosis but was cared for by City Hospice toward the end of his journey. Rhodri said: “My dad was a legend. He was selfless, one of a kind and always the person I’d call if I needed a hand or help with anything.  “The thing that made Dad special to me was the fact that he was always so supportive of me and my siblings; he would just support us in everything we did. “When his condition progressed and he was referred for palliative care in 2022, it all seemed a bit more real. Luckily, we had the amazing City Hospice to support us through this change.  “The team’s care made an incredible difference and allowed us to just focus on being with Dad. Our nurse Claire and Dr Capel were there for my dad whenever needed.  “They reassured him when he had concerns about medications, new symptoms or feelings and that definitely put him, and us as a family, at ease. “We began supporting Forever Flowers while Dad was being looked after by City Hospice and have chosen to dedicate a pink poppy this year in his memory.  “After the display it will be placed with our other Forever Flowers in the garden where my two young sons often play. No matter the season or the weather, the flowers will always be there, a lasting memory of my dad that makes us smile every day.” Dr Liz Booyse, Chief Executive of City Hospice, said: “It’s a privilege to return to Cardiff Castle for another year of Forever Flowers. Each pink poppy in the display will represent a person, a cherished loved one who will be celebrated and remembered with fondness.  “It’s also a powerful reminder of the impact City Hospice has had and continues to have on families in Cardiff. “This is always such a special occasion in our calendar and we can’t wait to see the display in full bloom.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Event Special

Swansea Arena: Show stopping events

Swansea Arena: Show stopping events Swansea Arena: Show stopping events Advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  750-seat upper auditoriumAwditoriwm uchaf gyda 750 o seddi 3 stunning concourses3 ardal cyntedd gwych Banquet space for 650 peopleGofod ar gyfer gwledda hyd at 650 o bobl Meeting rooms accommodating 6-150 peopleYstafelloedd cyfarfod hyd at 650 o bobl 2,200m² exhibition space to host 3,000 attendeesGofod arddangos o 2,200m² ar gyfer 3,000 o ymwelwyr QUOTE BUSINESSIN TO RECEIVE UP TO 25% OFF ROOM HIRE.DEFNYDDIWCH BUSINESSIN I DDERBYN HYD AT 25% I FFWRDD AR GOST HURIO YSTAFELL. Contact: Events@ATGEntertainment.com swansea-arena.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. Applies to bookings Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm.Telerau ac amodau. Yn ddibynnol ar argaeledd. Defnydd rhwng 8am a 6pm dydd Llun i ddydd Gwener.  Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts No Posts Found!

Advertorials, Event Special

MECCA SWANSEA: FREE VENUE HIRE

MECCA SWANSEA: FREE VENUE HIRE MECCA SWANSEA: FREE VENUE HIRE ADVERTORIAL Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  A FANTASTIC VENUE WITH FULL SOUND AND VISUAL SYSTEMS ENQUIRE TODAY AND LET’S SEE WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU LOOKING FOR A LARGE SPACE TO HOST A PRIVATE OR TICKETED EVENT? WE HAVE A 1700 SEAT CAPACITY VENUE WITH FREE CAR PARKING. PLUS A GREAT TEAM THAT CAN CATER TO ANY REQUIRMENTS YOU REQUEST. LOOK NO FUTHER THAN MECCA SWANSEA CARMARTHEN ROAD. Terms and Conditions Apply.  Mecca Bingo Swansea reserve the right to amend, suspend or cancel advertised promotions and events Through third parties without notice. All booked events must follow strict guidelines on issued events policy’s from Mecca Bingo. For further enquires call 01792 580208 or email Manager.mecswanseacarmarthen@rank.com Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts No Posts Found!

Advertorials, Event Special, Tourism & Travel

Celebrate Christmas 2025 in Spectacular Style at ICC Wales

Celebrate Christmas 2025 in Spectacular Style at ICC Wales Celebrate Christmas 2025 in Spectacular Style at ICC Wales advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  As the festive season approaches, ICC Wales invites you to unwrap a world of wonder with our dazzling Christmas party packages for 2025. If you’re planning a private event this festive season, our venue transforms into a magical playground of winter delights, immersive entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. Private Party Packages Party in The Woodland Suite – From £55 + VAT per person Step into a serene Welsh winter woodland, but from the comfort of indoors. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the surrounding landscape, this suite invites the outside in and blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Our package includes: Arrival drink Three-course festive meal with coffee and mince pies Dancefloor and disco Stage for entertainment Capacity: 300–400 guests The Ultimate Christmas Festive-al – From £58 + VAT per person Roll up, roll up for a night of circus-themed revelry! This high-energy experience features jaw-dropping aerial artists, dazzling dancers, and vibrant street food stalls. Our package includes: Arrival drink Street food stations DJ and live circus entertainment Stage for performances Capacity: 350–800 guests Party in The Main Hall – From £55 + VAT per person For large-scale celebrations, our Main Hall offers a fully customisable canvas. From lighting to layout, create a party that’s uniquely yours. Our package includes: Arrival drink Three-course festive meal with coffee and mince pies Disco and wandering entertainers Capacity: 400–800 guests Ambience: Grand, flexible, high-impact  Add-On Enhancements Wanting to add more magic to your night? We offer a range of enhancements to compliment your event: Drinks Reception at The Great SKATE (£25 pp): Enjoy exclusive access to ICC Wales’ indoor real ice rink, The Great Skate, with two drink vouchers per person Ice Sculptures (£40 each): Add a frosty centrepiece to wow your guests Half Bottle of Wine (£16.50 pp): Choose from house red, white, or rosé Cocktail Trees (£25 each): A playful twist with up to four festive cocktails Bespoke Theming: Tailor your party with custom decor and styling options  Sustainability at Heart ICC Wales is proud to champion environmentally conscious celebrations. From sourcing to operations, we’re committed to making your Christmas party magical and mindful. Whether you’re gathering colleagues, clients, or friends, ICC Wales offers a festive experience that’s as refined or as raucous as you wish. With immersive theming, elevated hospitality, and a touch of Welsh warmth, Christmas 2025 is set to sparkle. For bookings and bespoke enquiries, contact our sales team via telephone on 01633 410 200 or email at eventenquiries@iccwales.com. Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Uncategorised Welsh Water rules out hosepipe bans despite record-breaking summer heat Uncategorised Robertson Geo targets new international markets after global growth surge Sustainability & Environment, Technology & Innovation, Uncategorised Template Uncategorised

Advertorials, Event Special, Food & Drink

15 Years, 15 Dates: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wedding Offer at Pencoed House Estate

15 Years, 15 Dates: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wedding Offer at Pencoed House Estate 15 Years, 15 Dates: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wedding Offer at Pencoed House Estate Advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  This year marks a special milestone for us at Spiros Fine Dining & Events – 15 years of creating unforgettable weddings alongside the magnificent Pencoed House Estate. It’s a partnership that began with a love story of its own: the very first wedding ever held at Pencoed House featured our founder, Spiro Borg, at the helm in the kitchen. Since then, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with the Pencoed House team to host hundreds of celebrations in this enchanting, multi award-winning venue. Your perfect day, all included To celebrate our 15th anniversary together, we’re thrilled to announce an exclusive, all-inclusive wedding package for 70 guests – available on just 15 selected 2026 dates. This incredible offer is designed to save couples thousands while delivering the kind of day people talk about for years. Set within a private estate just outside Cardiff, Pencoed House offers exclusive use of its historic grounds and elegant spaces, surrounded by lush woodland and landscaped gardens – a dream setting in every season. Your celebration will be cared for by both the venue’s dedicated wedding co-ordinator and our own expert catering team, ensuring every detail is perfect from the first canapé to the last dance. The package includes: Exclusive use of the Estate (with accommodation) Luxury bridal party stay the night before (up to 10 guests) All accommodation for up to 30 guests on the wedding night Canapés, four-course wedding breakfast, and evening buffet, all delivered by Spiros Complimentary bar before and up to the ceremony, plus arrival and toast drinks House DJ until late Full Welsh breakfast for all overnight guests Master of Ceremonies, Chiavari chairs, and more Our anniversary menu is a celebration in itself, from smoked salmon with horseradish crème fraiche, to roast sirloin of beef with Yorkshire pudding, to indulgent salted caramel & chocolate tart. Evening food ranges from wood-fired pizza and dirty fries to poke bowls and pulled pork. Fifteen dates, one chance Dates are limited – Saturdays and Fridays across April to October 2026 – and several have already been snapped up. The all-inclusive price starts at £12,750 (including the Gate House the night before and the Bridal Suite on your wedding night) or £14,995 (inclusive of all accommodation). Additional day guests are £72pp, evening-only guests £20pp. Fifteen years, fifteen dates, one extraordinary opportunity to start your forever in a venue as beautiful as your love story. Secure your date today at pencoedhouseestate.co.uk/weddings/15th-anniversary-package Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible No Posts Found!

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