Jemma Crew

Fuel theft at UK forecourts has risen significantly since the Iran conflict began, with Forecourt Eye estimating that about £194,000 of fuel is stolen each day. Across the country, daily incidents have increased to roughly 2,872 and stolen fuel volumes to about 108,900 litres, while retailers report more intimidation and violence. Forecourt owners are calling for stronger policing and deterrence, and Forecourt Eye plans to provide retailers with free Facewatch crime-reporting technology. Fuel prices have fluctuated with developments in the conflict, but the Competition and Markets Authority has found no widespread evidence of price gouging, although it is investigating higher margins at several retailers.

Fuel theft at UK petrol stations has risen significantly since the Iran conflict began, with an estimated £194,000 worth of fuel stolen each day. Industry analysis indicates daily incidents increased from about 2,400 to 2,872 nationwide, while stolen fuel volumes rose 24% and its value increased 48% because of higher prices. Retailers report intimidation, violence and weak deterrence, while police say they are taking a proactive approach. Forecourt Eye plans to provide more than 2,000 retailers with free access to Facewatch crime-reporting technology. The article also notes that regulators found no widespread evidence of fuel price gouging, although margins at several retailers remain under investigation.

EasyJet and US investment firm Castlelake reached an agreement in principle on a £6.90‑per‑share takeover proposal, following four earlier rejected bids. The deal is not yet confirmed and still requires regulatory clearance, including compliance with EU ownership rules requiring EasyJet to remain majority‑European owned. Castlelake has until 3 August to make a formal offer, after which any deal would require shareholder approval. EasyJet’s board indicated it would be inclined to recommend the proposal, noting the airline’s recently depressed share price and the firm’s stated commitment to supporting its future growth.

Businesses across the UK are determining how to manage staffing around England’s 1am World Cup match, with some offering late starts or flexible hours to support employees who plan to stay up for the game. While companies in sectors such as manufacturing and retail have limited ability to adapt schedules, several firms are allowing delayed start times or short‑notice leave in hopes of boosting morale and maintaining trust. Legal and employment groups advise employers to handle requests fairly and consider practical alternatives to avoid fatigue‑related disruption. Government approval for extended pub opening hours has added further urgency for workplaces to plan ahead.

Businesses across the UK are preparing for England’s 01:00 BST World Cup match against Mexico by offering varying degrees of workplace flexibility. Some employers, particularly in office-based sectors, are allowing late starts or short-notice leave to support staff who plan to stay up, while industries like manufacturing, retail and hospitality face greater constraints. Trade unions and advisory bodies encourage employers to use discretion and accommodate reasonable requests, though legal experts note that staff have no statutory right to last‑minute time off. Several companies see flexibility as beneficial for morale and workplace culture, despite concerns about productivity. Pubs are permitted to stay open until 05:00, adding to the need for employers to plan sensibly for Monday’s workforce demands.