Bloomberg.com: U.K.

Bloomberg.com: U.K.: "Alpha Airports Group Plc (AAP LN): The U.K.'s biggest airline caterer and airport retailer releases first-half results. In June, the company said sales gained 8 percent in the first 17 weeks of the fiscal year as passenger traffic at regional airports gained. The shares rose 0.25 pence, or 0.3 percent, to 91.75 pence. "

TheMoodieReport.com

TheMoodieReport.com: "Alpha kicks sales targets with Smashbox promotion � 28/09/05
Source: �The Moodie Report
By Nikki Preston
Email Print
UK. Newcastle International Airport�s retailer Alpha Airport Shopping has increased sales by +5% as the result of an innovative promotion with American makeup brand Smashbox.

The largest growth in transaction spend was within the European Union (EU) passenger group, where Smashbox sales are up +20% yeear-on-year.

The scheme, introduced in early June, offers passengers spending �60 (US$106) or more a Smashbox studio box containing items worth �100 (US$176) for the reduced rate of �10 (US$18).

Alpha has recorded up to fifty sales of the sets per day, with weekly average sales of 300 since the start of the promotion. Alpha�s Newcastle International Airport store has also seen a +25% increase in perfume sales compared to last year. The rise in sales has been due to increased passenger numbers and changes to the instore offering and promotional activity.

This is the first co-promotion between Alpha and Smashbox and results are above target.

Alpha Airport Shopping Marketing Manager Sharon Hammond said: �Many people are deliberately spending more instore in order to take advantage of this offer. Smashbox is still a relatively new brand for the British market but it has been very well received and has certainly helped us to drive spend.� "

Gate Gourmet International -

Gate Gourmet International -: "Gate Gourmet realigns organization to sharpen customer focus
Reston, VA, Sept. 27, 2005 - Gate Gourmet, a leading global airline catering and logistics company, today announced a realignment of its organizational and management structure by consolidating sales and service functions in its operating divisions.


David Siegel, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said the new structure addresses several strategic objectives. 'Overall, we are striving to be even more market oriented and customer focused with our sales and service functions integrated within the geographic divisions. We will be more responsive as business conditions change by region or within market sectors, and be more attuned to opportunities both within and outside of our traditional catering role,' Siegel said.

Sales and customer service will now be fully integrated within the geographic divisions, under the direction of three division presidents, Paul Lilley in Europe, Pete Pappas in the Americas and Odd Engebretsen in Asia/Pacific, who will continue to report to Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Guy Dubois.

Support and infrastructure for the sales function will be provided by a new corporate department of Marketing and Business Development, headed by John Whisnant. In this role, Whisnant is responsible for identifying new or emerging market opportunities worldwide and developing related tools and processes for the newly formed divisional sales teams.

Because of these changes, Niels Smedegaard, Executive Vice President, Global Sales Solutions, will be leaving the company following a transition period. With Smedegaard's departure, e-gatematrix Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Torben Carlsen has been elevated to the role of President of that unit and will report d"

BBC NEWS | Business | Gate Gourmet settlement reached

BBC NEWS | Business | Gate Gourmet settlement reached: "Gate Gourmet settlement reached

The sacked Gate workers had campaigned to get their jobs back
A settlement has been reached in the dispute between in-flight caterer Gate Gourmet and the Transport and General Workers Union, it has been revealed.
Details of the agreement have not yet been disclosed, but it will be put to a mass meeting of workers on Tuesday.
If the deal is ratified by both sides, they have pledged to work together.
The dispute started in August when the caterer sacked 670 workers in a dispute over restructuring. Staff at British Airways then walked out in sympathy.
In a joint statement, Gate Gourmet and the union (T&G) said details of the settlement would not be released until Wednesday afternoon.
'Both the company and the union are pleased that a way forward has been found, and if the agreement is ratified, both sides have committed to working together to rebuild trust and confidence after all the difficulties of recent weeks.' they said.
Redundancy deals
The two-day wildcat action by British Airways (BA) ground staff at Heathrow grounded all the airline's flights from the airport, leaving more than 100,000 passengers stranded, and costing the airline an estimated �40m ($72m).
After the BA staff had returned to work, the stand-off at Gate Gourmet rumbled on, with the sacked staff picketing outside the caterer's Heathrow factory.
To try to end the dispute, at the end of August Gate Gourmet offered all staff - including those that had been sacked - redundancy packages.
About 700 staff - 300 of those sacked and 400 from the existing Gate Gourmet employees - applied to accept the offer, according to the union.
Yet one remaining disagreement at the time was Gate Gourmet's insistence that it would not re-"

Groupama Insurances - Groupama Insurances Announces Retirement of Jack Brownhill

Groupama Insurances - Groupama Insurances Announces Retirement of Jack Brownhill: "Groupama Connects with SSP and Misys via imarket
10 January 2005,
First imarket insurer to connect with Software Houses
In a powerful demonstration of its commitment to E-trading, Groupama Insurances is the first insurer to successfully establish connectivity through the imarket industry standard portal with two of the industry�s leading broker software houses. The first connection was achieved with Software Solutions Partners (SSP), followed closely by connection with Misys. This is the first development of its kind following the recent agreement to integrate imarket with broker software houses.
Connectivity via imarket will provide seamless and secure integration between insurers and the software houses for the speedy and efficient delivery of products and services to brokers. Product testing begins in early 2005, with an aim to have the first integrated product available by end of March.
'We are delighted that we have been able to prove connectivity with both SSP and Misys. This is a major step forward in the realisation of imarket as the industry portal, bringing brokers the benefit of faster, more efficient trading,' explains Ken Hutchinson, Groupama�s e-commerce Manager.
Richard Crocker, Head of e-Business at Software Solutions Partners commented: 'We have been working extremely hard on the project to integrate our software with the imarket portal and we are therefore delighted to be the first software house to establish connectivity with Groupama. We see the imarket integration project as a key initiative to drive commercial lines electronic trading forward and whilst there is still a lot of work to do, establishing connectivity with the first insurer is a significant milestone in the project delivery.'
Mark Ryder, Commercia"

Groupama Insurances - Groupama Wins!

Groupama Insurances - Groupama Wins!: "British Insurance Awards Results - 2005
Last night at the eleventh annual British Insurance Awards, which took place at the Royal Albert Hall, Groupama Insurances received the highly coveted �E Business Award� beating off fierce competition from L&G, HSBC and Confused.com.
E-Commerce Manager, Ken Hutchinson received the award on behalf of the company, watched by over 1000 guests � including Managing Director, Fran�ois-Xavier Boisseau and various senior representatives from Groupama.
Groupama Insurances was also �highly commended� in the sought after �General Insurer of the Year� award, losing out to the eventual winners, Allianz Cornhill.
The E-Business Award�
The winning company in this category needs to demonstrate success in generating profitable new business and enhanced customer service through the effective use of information and communications technologies.
Groupama Insurances received the award as a result of its many achievements in the electronic trading arena and our substantial commitment to develop and support the industry�s imarket initiative.
More specifically, Groupama has scored several market-leading achievements:
First insurer to have a web services auto-rated product in place when the imarket portal launched in November 2003;

First insurer to offer instant quotations;

First insurer to prove STP (Straight Through Processing) connectivity via imarket with software houses � Misys, SSP and Acturis;

Successful launch of a whole range of products dedicated to electronic trading � including Optima Trades and Professional, Optima Shop and Office and Optima Property
A Fantastic Achievement
Says Managing Director Fran�ois-Xavier Boisseau: ' It was great to be present at the Royal A"

Groupama Insurances - Groupama Goes On-Line For Smaller Fleets

Groupama Insurances - Groupama Goes On-Line For Smaller Fleets: "Groupama launches innovative Optima Small Fleet product
Groupama Insurances has expanded its innovative Optima product range with the launch of �Optima Small Fleet� a fully automated insurance solution targeting fleets of 5 to 15 cars or vans.
Available only via Optima Online, Groupama�s broker extranet - Optima Small Fleet is auto rated and offers instant quotations for qualifying business. Importantly, the new product also allows intermediaries to confirm cover immediately and without the need to speak to an underwriter. This market leading functionality combined with competitive pricing, comprehensive cover and a risk management package from Peak Performance, makes Optima Small Fleet a powerful proposition for intermediaries targeting the UK�s lucrative SME sector.
The multi-award winning team at Peak Performance can advise Optima Small Fleet customers on all aspects of risk management. Policyholders who agree to undertake an Advanced Driver Training programme can also benefit from reduced premiums.
The launch of Optima Small Fleet follows the completion of a successful pilot with 45 of Groupama�s partner brokers. Says Cathie Bruce, Head of Customer Proposition at Groupama Insurances 'The pilot was very successful, with the speed of the process and the ability to offer cover on the spot the key to winning business. Intermediaries also really liked the slick �vehicle look up� facility, the ability to print a cover-note for the customer and the opportunity to download the policy wording and policy summary.'
Intermediaries can also access instant quotes and purchase Optima Small Fleet through imarket without a need to re-key information.
Continued Cathie Bruce, 'Optima Small Fleet has already proven to be a winner with our pilot brokers. It has been desig"

Groupama Insurances - e-Trading - Optima Online

Groupama Insurances - e-Trading - Optima Online: "Optima Online

Connect Here


Groupama Insurances has launched its own extranet (Optima Online) to allow you to trade with us at the tough of a button.
Developed in tandem with our work on imarket, this electronic portal is available exclusively to Groupama Insurances agents wishing to trade commercial business electronically.
'Optima' is the new breed of commercial products that we are developing for trading via Optima Online. They have all you might expect in terms of cover and value for money - but importantly, they can be traded electronically. So, that not only means immediate quotes and confirmation of cover but the ability to download a policy wording too.
You can access these new products through Optima Online or via imarket - the market e-trading initiative that we have been supporting with fiver other leading insurers.
Trading with Groupama Insurances electronically couldn't be simpler. Simple register with imarket and follow the on screen instructions."

Groupama Insurances - imarket Vision Becomes Reality

Groupama Insurances - imarket Vision Becomes Reality: "imarket Vision Becomes Reality
Groupama Insurances and Acturis Go Live with Optima Shop
In a major development for the commercial insurance sector, Groupama Insurances and Acturis are the first insurer and software house, to become imarket integrated. This means brokers can trade directly from Acturis� back office system directly to Groupama Insurances, via the imarket infrastructure.
Brokers need only enter risk data once to obtain Optima Shop quotations, accept cover and obtain immediate confirmation, all returned in real time, via imarket from Groupama to the Acturis system.
The development brings to reality important benefits of electronic trading via imarket, allowing brokers to reduce administration costs and speed up processing, freeing them to focus on good customer service.

Ken Hutchinson, E-Commerce Manager for Groupama comments: 'This is a fantastic coup for Groupama and Acturis and the culmination of many months of work. Through agreed imarket standards we were able to test the product and integrate with Acturis very quickly ensuring we could bring this product to market ahead of our competitors. We are delighted our brokers will be the first to reap the benefits of electronic trading in its truest sense via imarket.'
Theo Duchen, co-CEO of Acturis, adds, 'The important thing for Acturis brokers is that this process involves no additional effort. Brokers simply add the risk information into the Acturis system as they do currently and a competitive auto-rated shop quotation from Groupama is instantly available.'
Peter Knowles, Strategy Marketing Director of imarket said 'We would like to congratulate both Acturis and Groupama on this achievement and are delighted to see the first of many successful integrations come to fruition.'"

Post Magazine

Post Magazine: "Groupama signs �14m deal with Premier Underwriting
Groupama Insurances has completed negotiations on a new scheme arrangement that is expected to produce approximately �14 million of new premium income over the next two years. The new deal, with niche intermediary Premier Underwriting concerns the acquisition of a portfolio of non standard private car and van covers �areas where Groupama is keen to expand its participation.
Kate Mutter, Head of Intermediary Solutions at Groupama Insurances, said: �This is a great opportunity that will give us access to a substantial volume of business in an area where we have been widening our underwriting footprint. Importantly, this is a profitable book that benefits from the expertise at Premier supplementing our market leading underwriting and pricing capabilities.�
Premier Underwriting sources its business from a selected number of motor intermediaries and targets non-standard risks that do not fit the mass market model.
Paul Gray, Managing Director of Premier Underwriting, said: �We are really pleased to have completed this deal with Groupama. There are very few Insurers on our wavelength, who have the underwriting and pricing sophistication to realise the potential for profit in these niche areas. We have also been able to bring negotiations to a conclusion very quickly and with the minimum of fuss and red tape � something that is a rarity in today�s market.�
Business is already beginning to flow between the two organisations and Groupama expects that in excess of �6 million will be on the books during 2005. "

Post Magazine

Post Magazine: "Axa earnings up despite flat revenues
AXA UK has reported underlying earnings of �118 million for the first half of 2005 � up 19% on H1 2004.
Globally, AXA reported a earnings of Euro 1,761 million, up 26% on the first half of 2004 (Euro 1,398 million). Henri de Castries, AXA Chief Executive Officer commented on 6 September 2005, �The combination of continued focus on efficiency improvement, organic growth and opportunistic acquisitions has enabled the Group to deliver another strong performance in the first half of 2005. We believe we are well on track to deliver strong double digit earnings growth for the full year 2005 despite the recent weather related events in the US.�
In the UK and Ireland, underlying earnings of �118 million for the first half of 2005 were 19% ahead of the first half of 2004 (�99 million). All AXA businesses in the UK have made a positive contribution to this improved result, a company statement said.
Total non life revenues in the UK and Ireland were flat at �1.56bn for the first half of 2005. This reflects rate softening in UK commercial lines and adverse developments in motor in Ireland offset by strong growth in UK personal lines (up by 9%) with property up by 16% and creditor up 24%.
UK health revenues also improved by 8% through the transfer of a major portfolio in the second half of 2004 and the successful launch of lower premium products designed to appeal to a wider market segment.
Non-life underlying earnings increased by �12 million to �110 million for the first half of 2005. It's combined ratio has been maintained at 97.3% for the first half of 2005 (97.5% for the first half of 2004) with lower average premiums together with higher motor claims frequency in Ireland being balanced by a better overall claims "

NMA.co.uk

NMA.co.uk: "Norwich Union is planning to drive up its online sales to 50% of total orders by 2007, with digital ads playing a vital role in achieving that aim.
The insurance company is kicking off the strategy by boosting its overall brand awareness by up to 5% with a major online campaign this week.
The online drive is an integrated part of its wider 'Quote me happy' campaign currently running on offline media including TV, outdoor and direct mail. However, all elements are primarily aimed at driving its online quotes and sales.
The campaign, which will run for a month across major portals, includes a landing page on the Norwich Union Web site. It has been designed by interactive agency AKQA with media planning/buying by Harvest Digital.
The interactive ads are designed to engage customers and create greater recall following positive feedback from strategic testing.
Sara Thwaites, ecommerce marketing manager, said, 'We aim to increase online orders by 2007, so digital advertising will continue to be a vital part of our marketing strategy.'"

NMA.co.uk

NMA.co.uk: "Norwich Union runs online ads targeting small businesses
By Dominic Dudley


Norwich Union, the country's largest insurer, is launching the first online advertising campaign for its small business unit, Norwich Union Direct for your Business.
The campaign to boost sales of its insurance products means that all the major parts of Norwich Union have now adopted new media marketing.
The campaign was planned and negotiated by online agency Harvest Digital. Creative has been designed in-house at Norwich Union and uses the company's well-known 'Quote me happy' strapline.
It will include banners, buttons and integrated media on finance and property sites including thisismoney .co.uk, interactive investor, clearlybusiness.co.uk and the commercial sections of property portals. There will also be a search element.
'It's a sizeable investment for the small business unit,' said Emma Wilson, client services director of Harvest Digital. 'It's embracing new media.'
The campaign is aimed at owners of buy-to-let properties, landlords with less than six properties and owner-managers of other small businesses."

NMA.co.uk

NMA.co.uk: "Insurance industry first to trial Miva's pay-per-call ad service
By Nic Howell

The financial services industry has become the first major adopter of pay-per-call advertising in the UK this week, with insurers HSA and More Than among the first advertisers to test search engine Miva's service.
Health insurer HSA will test pay-per-call for one month in a campaign to boost conversion rates for its cash and personal medical plans.
Next month More Than will follow suit in a test campaign for its life insurance product.
The campaigns will run across Miva partner sites, displaying a pop-up window with a freephone number rather than a link through to the insurers' Web sites.
The HSA campaign has been co-ordinated by digital agency Unique. Account manager Kate Hussey said that by offering customers the chance to talk through its products, HSA hopes to increase Web conversion rates to at least 30%.
'Instead of booking a private health plan online, the consumer can search online, phone through to HSA, have a conversation and make a fully-informed purchase,' she said.
More Than's campaign has been planned and bought by Universal McCann Interactive London. John Kimbell, account director at UMI, said that giving people the chance to talk through an involved product like life insurance would benefit More Than, and potentially deliver leads at a fraction of current costs.
'This takes out a huge step from someone clicking on an ad,' he said. 'This is delivering someone who is potentially ready to buy, so we thought the cost efficiencies were attractive.'
Kimbell added that he was initially sceptical of pay-per-call, but now that most Internet users have always-on connections it's a viable proposition. 'I felt it was a bit of step backward - it relies on people having broadband so th"

Advisory Firms to Experience Continued Rapid Growth; Need to Develop Human Capital Greater Now Than Ever Before, Says FPA Study

Advisory Firms to Experience Continued Rapid Growth; Need to Develop Human Capital Greater Now Than Ever Before, Says FPA Study: "Advisory Firms to Experience Continued Rapid Growth; Need to Develop Human Capital Greater Now Than Ever Before, Says FPA Study


DENVER, Sept. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The financial planning
profession has and will continue to experience rapid growth, according to the
2005 FPA Compensation and Staffing Study, sponsored by SEI Advisor Network and
produced by Moss Adams LLP.
The typical financial planning firm has grown from 1.5 employees,
including owners/principals in 2001 to 4.5 employees in 2005 and revenues have
grown from $631,000 in 2001 to more than $1 million in 2005. Moreover, the
2005 FPA Compensation and Staffing Study suggests continued -- if not rapid --
growth in the size of advisory practices. 'Many of these same firms are
expected to get to the critical mass threshold in the not too distant future,
with more than $5 million in annual revenue and a staff of 20 plus,' according
to the study. 'One driver of this is that as advisers evolve from the solo
model and begin adding other professionals, their client, revenue and staff
growth becomes exponential.'
'This year's study shows how advisory practices are changing with the
ever-evolving financial services industry,' said Elizabeth W. Jetton, CFP(R),
chair of FPA. 'One of FPA's priorities is career development and growing new
planners. This is also one of the biggest opportunities for growing the
profession, according to this year's study.'
And Rebecca Pomering, principal of Moss Adams LLP, said: 'The ability to
recrui"

The Aronson Foundation Grants $10K Award to Local Organization

The Aronson Foundation Grants $10K Award to Local Organization: "Accounting Firm Helps National Center for Children and Families

ROCKVILLE, Md., Sept. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- The Aronson Foundation, a
charitable organization, is pleased to announce that it is awarding a $10,000
grant to the National Center for Children and Families (NCCF), a private,
nonprofit agency with a 90-year commitment to serving families in the national
capital area.
Aronson & Company, a Washington area accounting and consulting firm,
formed the Aronson Foundation to address the needs of the community we have
served for over 40 years. With a primary focus on the needs of children, the
Foundation grants charitable contributions to organizations who have dedicated
themselves to providing services that enhance our world and help the people in
it thrive and succeed. All of this is made possible through the generosity and
enthusiasm of Aronson & Company staff, officers, clients and friends.
Lisa J. Cines, CPA, Managing Officer of the Aronson Foundation commented
on the organization's mission, 'The Aronson Foundation is very proud to grant
this award to NCCF. Their work within this community is clearly driven by a
strong sense of responsibility and caring and they reflect the values that the
Aronson Foundation holds dear.'
NCCF's residential programs serve homeless families, victims of domestic
violence and vulnerable adolescents. Other programs include treatment foster
care, social services for family reunification, parenting education,
independent living, and stabilizing families in the community.
'We appreciate the generosity and shared community vision of the Aronson
Fou"

BUSY 2005 FOR MRI MOORES ROWLAND LLP CORPORATE FINANCE

BUSY 2005 FOR MRI MOORES ROWLAND LLP CORPORATE FINANCE: "�The volume of AIM admissions and acquisitions has been maintained in 2005 despite relatively less institutional appetite for new issues since the spring. The early summer slow down might be described as the �indigestion� caused by the very buoyant first quarter IPO market which saw 130 companies joining AIM.

�Recent activity has been underpinned by newly formed �2005� shell companies seeking readmission to AIM after undertaking their first investments in, or reverse takeovers of, target businesses.

�The boards of many aspiring public companies would rather suffer an element of additional dilution on a reverse takeover than be exposed to the �market� risk of not being able to raise funds on direct admission. This form of transaction should increase over the next nine months as both new and more �dusty� shells seek to find suitable reverse takeover targets to maintain their present AIM quoted status.�"

Chiltern advises on �875M sale of Priory group

Chiltern advises on �875M sale of Priory group: "Chiltern�s involvement with the �875m sale of Priory Group, has once again demonstrated that top level tax advice is not the exclusive preserve of the Big 4.
Chiltern, the UK�s leading independent tax consultancy, acted to provide tax advisory services in specific and discrete areas on Doughty Hanson�s recent sale of Priory Group, the UK�s leading independent provider of mental healthcare and specialist education services, to ABN Amro.

John Willmott, Chairman and Amanda Flint, Director, Head of Reward Consulting, led the Chiltern team whose role involved the provision of:General corporate tax advice to the Priory Group as part and parcel of vendor due diligence specialist taxation advice to management in respect of reward consulting and share incentive planning.
John Willmott said:
�Increasingly corporates are looking beyond the Big 4 for specialist advice. Undoubtedly this has been prompted by increased awareness of corporate governance best practice in terms of using separate advisers for audit and non-audit services, but also by a growing realisation that a specialist, independent firm can offer equivalent or superior advice, with a higher service level and at better value than some of the more well-known providers.
�There is a shake-up going on amongst professional services providers and work is flowing out of the Big 4 towards the so-called �Group A� firms. In recent months we have been appointed by a growing number of corporate clients, some of whom are very large companies and have acted in various corporate transactions, of which this is the most recent.�"

Three quarters of retail employees rate their job security favourably

Three quarters of retail employees rate their job security favourably: "Three quarters of retail employees rate their job security favourably
Thursday September 22 2005


Recent data from employee research specialist ORC International�s annual report has highlighted that 73 per cent of employees working in the UK retail sector feel secure in their jobs
This compares with a UK norm of 64 per cent and is the most favourable score across all UK business sectors.This indicates that despite the challenges currently facing retailers and the trend to cut jobs, workers are remaining optimistic.

Further findings in the report which offer a positive perspective of employee opinion within the retail sector are:

� Retail employees are the most satisfied with their jobs, scoring 76 per cent on this issue which compares with a UK norm of 68 per cent, and is the highest score across all sectors.

� 74 per cent of retail sector employees intend to still be working for the same company in twelve month�s time. This compares with a UK norm of 66 per cent.

� When asked about recognition and management style, 73 per cent of employees in the retail sector are satisfied with the recognition they receive from managers. This compares with a UK norm of 69 per cent and is the highest score across all sectors.

When asked to relate these findings to her own experiences, Glenys Laycock, group HR director at Alpha Airports says: �Alpha Retail, part of the Alpha Airports Group, operates a wide variety of shops in airports throughout the UK and overseas, trading 24/7 and dealing with customers from around the globe. We trade in a highly competitive market where retaining the best people, involving them, listening to their views and acting on them gives us a real competitive edge. When we�ve foun"

Post Magazine

Post Magazine: "Norwich Union launches online broker regulatory risk tool
Norwich Union has launched a new online tool to help avoid the threat of fines or being barred from doing business under the FSA�s rules regarding broker-insurer trading arrangements.
The Broker Regulatory Risk Tool is a free service which allows intermediaries to assess the level of risk and value presented to them by a variety of different trading methods and incentives.
Once the broker has awarded a score for each arrangement, the tool then shows the level of possibility that a particular incentive might lead to non-FSA compliant activity � depicted in a �red-amber-green� format to show the level of danger.
Simon Bloomfield, broker proposition development manager at Norwich Union, said: �Just because something is considered to be a �market practice� does not mean that it is going to be compliant and the online tool is aimed at helping brokers to manage the potential regulation risks that they face.� "

Post Magazine

Post Magazine: "Winlow quits as Zurich MD
Zurich has announced that Mark Winlow, managing director of its UK Personal Lines business, has decided to leave the organisation. In a statement from the insurer, zurich said neither the company nor Mr Winlow will be discussing the terms or background to his decision to leave.
Ian Stuart, chief executive officer of Zurich's UK General Insurance business, has confirmed that he sees no necessity to replace Mr Winlow, who joined Zurich from financial services consultancy, A T Kearney, in January 2004.
Instead, in addition to his CEO responsibilities, Mr Stuart will take a more direct role within the personal lines operation himself, having run a similar business during his time with Eagle Star Ireland.
Neither Zurich nor Winlow were available for further comment."

Client Referrals for Pageworks

Client Referrals for Pageworks: "NIG Network
NIG have worked with Pageworks on our public and secure sites for a number of years and we have always found them to provide a professional and reasonably priced solution to all our requirements. I cannot recommend Pageworks highly enough as they provide a 'no nonsense' service that cuts out the usual jargon associated with Internet/e-commerce projects and allows us to concentrate on delivering the final product to the business and our consumers.

Matthew Purser
NIG"

Insurance Age

Insurance Age: "The Broker Gateway has gone live with Misys' online quoting system across its motor products, with commercial vehicle and household products to adopt it soon. Oasys e-Quotes provides sub-agents of the Broker Gateway, now part of Protectagroup, with online quotes from a panel of insurers and electronic point of sale documents. The quotation engine has been embedded in the Broker Gateway website and integrated with the Misys back-office system."

Insurance Age

Insurance Age: "New broker network Ten Insurance Services has adopted CDL as its technology partner and implemented its new Strata software product. Aylesbury-based Ten said it chose the CDL system as a way of offering a platform to its members over the internet, so allowing smaller brokers to outsource their back-office functions and IT."

Insurance Age

Insurance Age: "SSP said it was rolling out its Insight system to Willis network brokers at a rate of one a week, with all members set to be online by February 2006. In conjunction with PCMS, IT-managed service provider, 31 out of 68 Willis members have been set up on Insight, the general insurance broking platform. Insight will be replacing members' legacy system, Grapevine CLEO."

Insurance Age

Insurance Age: "Imarket to offer discounts on email marketing
Imarket will soon be offering brokers discounts on an email marketing service after teaming up with Enabler, the e-marketing service. This means that from late September imarket brokers can buy cut-price branded emailers, surveys and other marketing communications.
Enabler said the facilities offered to brokers would include the ability to create, personalise, send and then track the success of branded emails, briefings and surveys, with 'negligible' cost.
Peter Knowles, imarket's strategy and marketing director, said the Enabler deal would be one of many such offers available to brokers to give the portal added value and selling points.
He said: 'This is the next important addition to a range of services we have planned for the imarket community of brokers. We are also using Enabler internally and are impressed with its wide capability.'
In other developments, NIG has joined imarket as an insurer member, saying its IT development was underway, and stating that it hoped to be integrated by the end of the year. The small and medium-sized enterprise products it plans to launch include one for motor trade, which it said was not currently available on the portal.
- Allianz Cornhill has followed hot on the heels of Groupama to launch live products on the system through software house Acturis's broker platform. Allianz's first live product was its Complete Retailer contract, with more in the pipeline."

Insurance Age

Insurance Age: "Web-based tool aims to deal with contract fraud
Andrew Foxwell
A new web-based tool has been launched to help brokers and insurers tackle the serious problem of employee and contracting fraud facing the industry.
Fraud-i aims to educate employees in medium to large organisations using online education and subtle electronic questionnaires to discover where the theft is taking place.
This could be crucial in tackling kickbacks, advantageous loans given by brokers to friends and misappropriation of insurers' funds; just some of the issues plaguing the industry, according to Fraud-i co-founder Allan McDonagh.
Mr McDonagh, a security expert and former fraud investigator, claimed that Fraud-i would seek to stop this endemic trend: 'Corporate fraud is the largest unmanaged organisation risk today, costing businesses typically between 2-5% of total sales.
'Companies spend huge sums of money in protecting the business against disasters, especially in the wake of 9/11, yet senior management often ignores the threat posed by corporate theft and corruption, which is much more likely to bring down a business.'
He added that consolidation among insurers meant larger contracts for many items such as catering and gardening were now the responsibility of just a few people in positions of trust.
While the set-up costs of the system would not be regarded as cheap by smaller companies, negotiations with two large household insurers are at an advanced stage, with installation expected to take place soon.
Simon Imbert, Fraud-i's other co-founder, stressed brokers would be able to take advantage of lower premiums when selling fidelity insurance, which protects businesses from employee theft.
He said: 'Looking a year or two down the line, if companies adopted Fraud-i as part of a counter-fraud initiative, t"

NIG Network

NIG Network: "Insurance Age Broker Expo-3rd November 2005-08-15
NIG and Finsure are among the 35 insurers and specialist suppliers exhibiting at the Insurance Age Broker Expo. The event will take place at The National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham, on Thursday 3rd November.
For your opportunity to network with managers from both NIG and Finsure, please come and visit us on stands 23 & 28. Plus, talk face to face to NIG at the �Business Speed Dating� where 15 minute one-on one sessions will be held by exhibitors.
A series of workshops will also be held throughout the day, covering topics such as Training and Competency, FSA Arrow Visits and Implementing risk management, so don�t miss out!
For more information about the event, please click on the link below to access the Expo website:
http://www.insuranceage.com/expo"

NIG Network

NIG Network: "Home Products
Changes Effective From October 2005
With effect from 1st October 2005 we will be making the following changes to our home products:
Full postcode rating
We are moving to rating at full postcode level. This has the advantage of allowing us to be more sophisticated and precise in the way that we underwrite the risk in each postcode area.
You will notice that you may be able to obtain a quote in postcode areas that were previously declined or needed to be referred to an underwriter.
Proposal forms
The pre-printed forms for Advantage Select, Home, Homeplan and Homeplan De-luxe have been reviewed. The purpose of the review was to make the forms simpler to understand and easier to complete.
These are in addition to the following changes that we made in May:
Buildings rating areas
The number of buildings rating areas increased from 10 to 30. Postcode review A review of postcodes for both buildings and contents showed that:
9% of buildings and contents postcodes moved to lower rated areas;
5% of buildings and 6% of contents postcodes have been moved to higher rating areas;
172 buildings and 385 contents postcodes have been removed from our refer list to enable you to offer a greater number of quotations without referring to us.
Trees and shrubs
As a part of the postcode review you now only need to contact us if there are trees and shrubs that are over 20ft tall and within 30ft of the building for certain postcodes. These are listed in the table headed 'Trees' that can be found in the Home and Advantage Underwriting Guides and on all Proposal Forms.
If there are no trees or shrubs or the postcode is not listed in the 'Trees' table you can quote without referral to us. This change means that refe"

TheMoodieReport.com

TheMoodieReport.com: "Alpha takes flight with The Aviator at Dublin Airport � 16/09/05
Source: �The Moodie Report
By Martin Moodie
Email Print
IRELAND. Following Dublin Airport�s decision to make its main catering offer accessible from the airside departures lounge, Alpha Retail Catering has taken over the landside Thomas Reed Skyview Caf� renaming it The Aviator.

The Foodhall, Nude, Brasserie and Bar have all been transferred to airside over the departures floor passenger security area, by virtue of new screening and passenger routing. Meanwhile, Alpha�s landside Bewley�s offer has been enhanced with the addition of The Aviator, thereby ensuring its presence throughout the airport is maintained.

The changes will provide more convenient access for departing passengers to a broad range of waiter-service dining facilities as well as hot and cold buffet and deli options from the retail Shopping Street. Access to the newly-located facilities will be clearly signposted from the Shopping Street.

Jerry Robinson, Managing Director of Alpha Retail Catering, said: �The changes at Dublin are already proving popular with passengers and we expect to see this reflected in increased revenue.

�By working together to implement these changes, our relationship with Dublin Airport has been strengthened considerably. We very much look forward to developing our partnership with the airport in the future.�

Director of Dublin Airport Robert Hilliard said: �This move is a direct response by Dublin Airport to recent customer surveys which indicated to us that departing passengers desired a greater range and choice of catering facilities, once they had passed through our passenger security screening areas. I have no doubt that the relocation of the"

Major product additions to AXA Business Risk

26/08/2005) Major product additions to AXA Business Risk
AXA has announced today (Friday 26 August) that it has successfully launched the next critical stage in the development of its E-trading offering.

The functionality of the service available to brokers on AXA Business Risk has been dramatically increased with the addition of five new products:

Shops
Offices
Surgeries
Hotels
Restaurants, Wine Bars and Public Houses
All of these small business packages have been enhanced to include legal expenses cover, a no claims discount and an improved rating structure.

David Aiston, regional director north, AXA commented: "The feedback that we've received from our brokers indicates that there is a big demand for electronic access to our range of small business package policies, so we have delivered an enhanced product with an improved rating structure and additional product features.

"The launch of our small business package range on AXA Business Risk has given us a great opportunity to provide some real benefits to our brokers in respect of speed, efficiency and up to date products. It allows us to positively differentiate ourselves from our competitors and make an impact on our trading results."

Tim Ryan, managing director, Ryan Insurance Group comments: "Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of administering small business is a key issue for an insurance brokerage. With the support of ABR we have easy access to competitive premiums and supporting documentation that allows us to generate good revenues from these classes without compromising customer service or best advice."

Luchtzak Aviation - 40% of EgyptAir Inflight Services for sale - Airbus, Boeing, Concorde, Dash, Embraer... The ABC of aviation...

Luchtzak Aviation - 40% of EgyptAir Inflight Services for sale - Airbus, Boeing, Concorde, Dash, Embraer... The ABC of aviation...: "EgyptAir Inflight Services is a part of EgyptAir Holding Co. that wants to sell 40% of its catering division to raise its capital. Compass Group Plc, Gate Gourmet International AG, and Alpha Airports Group Plc are considering bids to acquire that 40%.

Bids and results are expected mid-October.' "

Gate Gourmet International -

Gate Gourmet International -: "GATE GOURMET AND TGWU
AGREE ON SELECTION CRITERIA
London, Sept. 9, 2005

Gate Gourmet London (Heathrow) and the Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU), assisted by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), today reached agreement on compulsory redundancy selection criteria and a process for the ratification of the company�s survival plans.

Eric Born, Managing Director of Gate Gourmet UK & Ireland said: �This is another milestone on the long road to finding a permanent and fair resolution to our current labour issues. We are still working through the voluntary redundancy and compensation programme, with the union, along the lines of framework agreed on 25th August.�

The agreed criteria include standard performance-based measures such as skills and knowledge, attendance and disciplinary records.

The company together with the union will next consider the results of the voluntary redundancy and compensation programme as they become available.

Gate Gourmet is trying very hard to find a fair and reasonable solution for the dismissed workers. Due to legal reasons the company is unable to selectively reengage dismissed workers because the illegal action that took place was instigated and supported by local union officials. The legal constraint on the company is well known to the union and has been at the heart of the lengthy negotiations since the wildcat strike.

In present circumstances the signing of compromise agreements by all the dismissed workers is the only way that would enable Gate Gourmet to quickly consider any requests by dismissed employees to be reengaged by Gate Gourmet. There would have been more freedom to discuss a selective reengagement process if the union had accepted from the start that the action was unofficial.

As part of "

BA August Traffic Hurt By Strike

BA August Traffic Hurt By Strike: "British Airways' August passenger traffic fell, as expected, after a strike disrupted its flights at London's Heathrow Airport.
The airline said passenger traffic fell 0.7 percent in August after a strike by its ground crew at London's Heathrow Airport stranded over 100,000 passengers.
The industrial action, sparked by a dispute at its caterers Gate Gourmet, led to the cancellation of more than 700 flights.
It was the third successive year of severe disruption to BA's Heathrow operations at the peak of the summer travel season.
The airline's premium passenger traffic -- first and business class -- fell 4.7 percent in the month. A recovery in premium traffic has been key to BA's performance in recent months.
The airline said in a statement its load factor, which measures how successfully it is filling its planes, was up 0.2 percentage points to 77.9 percent in August.
Low-cost rival Ryanair said on Monday its passenger numbers surpassed BA's for the first time in August.
BA said it was still too early to forecast the financial impact of last month's strike, which analysts have put at around GBP�30 million (USD$55.45 million).
On Monday, BA denied a newspaper report it was funding a redundancy package currently on offer to Gate Gourmet staff.
BA's head of investor relations George Stinnes said the carrier was keeping its current level of fuel surcharges under review, but said oil prices were too volatile to make fresh predictions about the company's fuel bill for the year.
Oil prices eased on Monday after the release of emergency oil stocks. Oil hit a record USD$70.85 a barrel last week.
BA said in a statement it had slightly extended its fuel hedging to 81 percent cover at an average cost of USD$45 per barrel for the rest of the current year to March 2006."

BAA Traffic Growth Slows

BAA Traffic Growth Slows: "Britain's biggest airport operator, BAA, said on Friday that a strike at British Airways and the impact of July's bombings in London cost it up to half a million passengers in August.
The company added that passenger numbers were bouncing back quickly following the bombings but the longer-term effects of the attacks were still unclear.
The number of passengers passing through London's Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted and BAA's four regional airports rose by 65,000, or 0.5 percent, to 14.275 million in August.
But the number would have been up to 500,000 higher if not for the bombings and the strike, BAA said.
'We think it was anything up to half a million passengers less for August,' BAA spokesman Duncan Bonfield said.
Numbers at Heathrow immediately dropped off 5 percent following the July 7 suicide bombings on London's transport system. They took several weeks to recover before aborted bombings on July 21 had a similar impact.
By early August -- one of its busiest months -- passenger numbers were level again.
'We think we are pretty much out of the bombings effect. The flying public gets more and more resilient, so recovery is quicker from shocks. The overall period of impact looks like it was only 4 or 5 weeks. That's a pretty remarkable recovery.'
He said the causes of the loss of passengers in August could be split roughly 50-50 between the bombings and the strike at BA, although many would return later in the year.
'We don't consider them 'lost'. Some passengers find other routes and a large percentage defer their flights. We think a significant number will come back in the next couple of months.'
Some 24,000 fewer passengers flew to and from North America -- a 1.3 percent drop -- largely due to the strike at BA which has a strong position in the trans-Atlantic market.
T"

700 Gate Gourmet Workers Apply For Redundancy

700 Gate Gourmet Workers Apply For Redundancy: "Gate Gourmet, the troubled caterer to British Airways, has received applications for redundancy from 700 current and former employees, union officials said on Sunday, but they stressed no final decisions had been made.
About 300 of the applications came from staff fired last month, while a further 400 came from employees still working at Gate Gourmet, according to comments made by Tony Woodley, general secretary of the Transport & General Workers' Union, at the Trades Union Congress conference in Brighton.
'There's some detailed analysis that needs to go on now because, of those 700, it may be that some of them won't be allowed to go because of the particular job that they do,' a spokesman for the TGWU said.
Gate Gourmet sacked staff last month, triggering wildcat strikes by its own staff and workers at BA, which led to the cancellation of more than 700 flights at London's Heathrow Airport.
The caterer is seeking to cut 670 jobs from its 2,000-strong workforce to ensure its financial survival.
Creditors have given Gate Gourmet, owned by US private equity firm Texas Pacific Group, until next Monday to meet their demands or face asset seizures, a source close to talks said this week."

RBS: Media Centre - The Royal Bank of Scotland Hires Head of E-Commerce Japan

RBS: Media Centre - The Royal Bank of Scotland Hires Head of E-Commerce Japan: "The Royal Bank of Scotland Hires Head of E-Commerce Japan
6 September 2005
The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), Financial Markets announces the appointment of Junko Kawada as Head of eCommerce sales Japan.
Junko will be based in Tokyo with responsibility for increasing the distribution of RBS's Financial Markets electronic products in Asia. In this regard she will be working closely with Michelle Neal, Head of Fixed Income eCommerce, Rates and Credit based in London. Junko was previously at Deutsche Bank where she headed up their eFX sales and marketing activities.
Junko will report to Tom Picard, Head of Financial Markets Asia Pacific Sales and Marketing on a local basis and to Tom Roche, Head of eCommerce and Integrated Treasury Solutions, on a global product basis.
Commenting on her appointment, Tom Roche, said: 'As eCommerce becomes a core part of our distribution process in Financial Markets, the need to support our sales and market development efforts in Tokyo is of paramount importance. Junko's appointment will raise our aspirations for the business in Asia and accelerate our eCommerce drive in the region.'
Notes to Editors:
The Royal Bank of Scotland Financial Markets eCommerce Product suite has been developed to meet distinct customer requirements across our global markets. We have a suite of RBS branded Foreign Exchange and Money Markets electronic trading solutions:
RBS FiX offers a range of benchmarked prices ensuring customers can trade at a transparent and independently audited FX rate.
FX Stream provides real-time, two-way streaming prices for the foreign exchange spot and forward trades in over 20 of the most active currencies.
Trade, a major online trading service for Foreign"

Business contributing to insurance fraud

Business contributing to insurance fraud: "Insurance fraud in the UK business community costs at least �550 million a year, according to a study by the insurance industry.
Research carried out by MORI for a syndicate of leading insurance-related organisations found that firms are as likely to be the perpetrators of fraud as they are victims.
Up to one in seven claims made by businesses are exaggerated, the research suggests, while one in three of the UK's biggest firms supplied false information on insurance proposal forms.
One in 12 firms believed exaggerating a property or motor insurance claim was acceptable � with smaller businesses most likely to regard it acceptable.
But the survey also found that companies were as likely to be the victims of fraud. Over the past two years, one in 10 companies have been the target of a false claim for compensation by a member of the public, two-thirds of larger firms have been subject to a fraudulent compensation claim and one fifth of employees have been aware of someone exaggerating a genuine illness or injury.
In other words, the research suggests, there is still work to be done in changing the perception that fraud pays, or that it is an 'acceptable' crime.
'This is the first research of its kind and the messages are stark � the �550m price tag and the fact that 15 per cent of claims are exaggerated highlight the challenge we face as an industry,' said John Freeman, director of investigation services at Capita Insurance Services
'Fraud is not a victimless crime: it pushes up the cost of insurance for everyone, and we know this hits smaller firms particularly hard. We have to protect honest policyholders, as far as possible, from unnecessary rises in premiums.'
Sheila Brudenell, a member of the syndicate from NIG, said: 'It is clear that a"

NIG Network

NIG Network: "NIG�S Commercial Lines Managing Director Moves On
It is with regret that NIG announces the departure of Charles Earle, the Managing Director of its Commercial Lines business.
Charles joined NIG in 1996 and was made a Board Director the following year. Throughout the nine years he has been with the company he has made a significant contribution to NIG's overall achievements. Specifically this has included developing the Commercial Lines business to help NIG become a profitable broker focused insurer with a significant share of the UK SME market (in the small to medium sized business sector with) and a strong regional presence.
NIG wishes Charles every success in the future. Whilst his contribution will be missed, he has built an accomplished and effective team who will continue to meet your needs and develop this important part of NIG's business within The Royal Bank of Scotland Group."

Datamonitor - Admiral continues to grow profits at a pace - News

Datamonitor - Admiral continues to grow profits at a pace - News: "UK insurance company Admiral Group has announces record interim results with a core profit of GBP56.9 million for the six months to June 2005, an increase of 17% over the same period in 2004."

Datamonitor - Axa Asia boosts profits by 36% - News

Datamonitor - Axa Asia boosts profits by 36% - News: "Australian life insurer Axa Asia Pacific Holdings has revealed that profits from the first half of the year were up 36% to A$246.4 million, mainly as a result of strong operating earnings and an increase in fee incomes."

The Nuance Group > Media > Media releases > Press

The Nuance Group > Media > Media releases > Press: "NUANCE PREPARES FOR A NEW ERA AT SYDNEY AIRPORT

Zurich, August 29, 2005 � Following the announcement of Sydney Airport that they will issue a �Request for Proposals� for the duty-free concession at Sydney Airport, Nuance prepares to be among the retailers who offer new approaches to structuring this significant contract and looks forward to a new era.

Sydney Airport�s announcement that they will issue a �Request For Proposals� for the Duty Free Concession at Sydney Airport is in line with the expected timetable in the lead up to the expiry of the concession currently operated by The Nuance Group. The concession expires at the end of October 2006. Downtown Duty Free has operated the concession since 1991. The Nuance Group acquired the Downtown Duty Free business in 1995 and has operated the Sydney Airport Concession since then with considerable success and repeated industry recognition for its innovative approach to retailing.

Roberto Graziani, President & CEO The Nuance Group, welcomed the comments by Max Moore-Wilton, Chairman and Chief Executive of Sydney Airport Corporation, which describe the relationship with Nuance as �excellent� and as having brought about �significant innovations and developments and as a result created a world-class duty and tax free shopping environment for passengers�.

The Nuance Group CEO Australia & New Zealand, Christian Strang said, �The expiry date of the concession at Sydney has been known for a long time and it does not come as a surprise. We continue to work closely with Sydney Airport developing a vision for the future; we relish the challenges and opportunities that a market evaluation will provide. Having held the concession since 1991 it is entirely reasonable to expect that a new airport ow"

Gate Gourmet International - Framework Agreement Reached with TGWU

Gate Gourmet International - Framework Agreement Reached with TGWU: "London, Aug. 25 2005 -- Gate Gourmet London (Heathrow) is pleased to report tonight that the Transport and General Workers Union, assisted by the Trades Union Congress, has agreed to a nonbinding framework, proposed by Gate Gourmet.

The framework will allow the company to address its ongoing staffing needs in a way that is fair to all employees, adopt necessary work rule changes, and stem the losses that have put the company on the brink of administration.

In the next few days, we expect to launch a voluntary redundancy program, open to current employees as well as those dismissed for their illegal strike actions on Aug. 10, aimed at reducing our workforce to levels agreed upon by the union that will make the company economically viable. This is the same level agreed upon by unions last June. The voluntary program could be followed by a compulsory redundancy program. The company, at its discretion, may accept or decline these requests for redundancy. Our duty is to protect our 1,400 workers who have stood by us during this time. "

More Information

More Information: "British Airways has agreed the terms of a new deal that improves and extends the commercial arrangement between the airline and its Heathrow airport catering supplier Gate Gourmet.
The airline is prepared to sign the deal as soon as Gate Gourmet and the Transport and General Workers Union reach a satisfactory agreement on their outstanding issues.
The deal paves the way for a return to full catering onboard all British Airways flights at Heathrow.
The airline is now urging both Gate Gourmet and the Transport and General Workers Union to reach a labour agreement.
Mike Street, British Airways' director of customer service and operations, said: 'We are pleased to have concluded the basis and substance of a deal with Gate Gourmet. The key to unlocking this dispute now lies firmly in the hands of Gate Gourmet and the Transport and General Workers Union. They must sort out their differences for the good of our customers and the employees of Gate Gourmet.'
The airline has served hot food on its longhaul flights from Heathrow since Monday (August 22) and this extends to inbound flights from tomorrow.
Mike Street said: 'We once again apologise unreservedly for all the difficulties which have been caused to our customers across the world since this dispute began.
'Our priority in the weeks and months ahead will be to rebuild our reputation in our customers' eyes.'"

Gate Gourmet, Union Agree Framework In Jobs Row

Gate Gourmet, Union Agree Framework In Jobs Row: "British Airways caterer Gate Gourmet said on Thursday it had reached a framework accord with union chiefs aimed at ending a long-running dispute.
The troubled catering company said it expects to launch a voluntary redundancy program in the next few days for staff, including hundreds sacked earlier this month.
The caterer said those sacked can apply for voluntary redundancy under the outline agreement reached on Thursday.
'The framework will allow the company to address its ongoing staffing needs in a way that is fair to all employees, adopt necessary work rule changes, and stem the losses that have put the company on the brink of administration,' Gate Gourmet said.
The company said it would be forced to make compulsory redundancies if not enough people opt to leave their jobs. It did not say how many staff must go.
More than 100,000 BA passengers were stranded earlier this month when some of the airline's ground staff at London's Heathrow Airport went on strike in sympathy with hundreds of workers sacked by Gate Gourmet.
Since then, unions have held talks with Gate Gourmet over the sacked workers and the fate of current staff.
The Transport & General Workers Union described the framework pact as a 'significant' step and said talks would resume next week.
'After a constructive meeting we have made initial progress toward resolving (the) problems... with an outline of how to go forward that would apply to all workers,' TGWU National Secretary Brendan Gold said.
BA has offered Gate Gourmet improved terms and a contract extension of two years to 2010, but no deal has been signed.
Gate Gourmet resumed delivery of hot meals for BA's outbound long-haul flights from London's Heathrow Airport on Monday after a lapse of more than a week.
Gate Gourmet has lost money since "

Court Extends Order On Sacked Gate Gourmet Workers

Court Extends Order On Sacked Gate Gourmet Workers: "British Airways' caterer Gate Gourmet was granted an extension on Friday to a court order restraining protests by dismissed workers, as it moved closer to ending a crippling staff dispute.
The ruling came a day after the caterer reached a non-binding agreement with union chiefs aimed at ending a dispute that grounded BA flights earlier this month and has disrupted in-flight meal services for two weeks.
'We are pleased the injunction continues because instances of intimidating and bullying behavior against our hard-working staff have reduced since the injunction took effect on August 21,' Gate Gourmet said in a statement.
Gate Gourmet said it would launch a voluntary redundancy program in the next few days for staff, including hundreds sacked earlier this month, under the framework deal.
The success of the agreement, however, rests on Gate Gourmet cutting 670 jobs from its 2,000 strong workforce and on several individuals who instigated the strike accepting redundancy.
'If there are 670 voluntary redundancies and all the troublemakers are included, there is a neat solution,' a source familiar with the situation said.
The source added that if the numbers fell well short and the targeted individuals did not take redundancy, then more talks would be required.
The Transport & General Workers Union (T&G), the union at the center of the spat, said no more talks were scheduled for Friday and it was confident the issue could be resolved.
A T&G spokesman said it would become clearer late next week or the following week which workers were prepared to accept redundancy.
BA, which hopes to resume serving hot meals on short-haul services next week, maintained it would not sign a new supply contract with Gate Gourmet until the industrial dispute was fully resolved.
More than"

Gate Gourmet Details Voluntary Redundancy Offer

Gate Gourmet Details Voluntary Redundancy Offer: "Airline catering company Gate Gourmet said on Sunday it offered redundancy payments twice the statutory level to employees at the heart of a dispute which earlier this month grounded flights at British Airways.
Gate Gourmet, owned by US private equity firm Texas Pacific Group, sacked 670 UK staff in early August after workers walked out over the hiring of temporary staff, prompting sympathy action by BA ground crew.
Gate Gourmet on Sunday said employees would receive two weeks pay for each year of service in the voluntary redundancy package, more than twice the statutory level for redundancy pay.
'It is Gate Gourmet London's hope that the results of this voluntary program and compensation payment plan, coupled with a possible compulsory program and work rule changes, will reduce its workforce to levels agreed upon by the union which will restore the company to economic viability,' it said in a statement.
The Transport & General Workers Union (T&G) said on Friday it was confident the issue could be resolved, adding it would become clearer late next week or the following week which workers were prepared to accept redundancy.
Separately the Sunday Times newspaper reported that BA had agreed to fund millions of pounds worth of redundancy and compensation payments to Gate Gourmet workers.
A BA spokesman declined to comment on the report, which put the one-off payment at around GBP�7 million (USD$12.7 million).
The airline has a contract with Gate Gourmet until 2008 but has yet to sign a new agreement with the company.
'We have improved the financial terms and we've extended our relationship with Gate Gourmet until 2010 but in terms of the detail of the contract that remains commercially confidential,' the spokesman said."