What's happened
Former UK trade minister Greg Hands has been appointed as a strategic adviser to Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky's EP Group. His role will focus on UK and German markets, particularly in energy security and sustainable solutions, following EP Group's recent acquisition of Royal Mail.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Implications
- Investment Focus: Hands' appointment signals EP Group's intent to strengthen its foothold in the UK and Germany, particularly in energy sectors.
- Political Connections: His background in government and fluency in German and Czech may facilitate smoother regulatory navigation.
- Market Dynamics: The acquisition of Royal Mail reflects a broader trend of foreign investment in UK infrastructure, raising questions about national security and economic sovereignty.
Future Outlook
- Energy Security: With the ongoing global energy transition, Hands' expertise could help EP Group pivot towards sustainable energy solutions, potentially reshaping its public image.
- Regulatory Challenges: The company may face scrutiny regarding its investments in fossil fuels, as environmental concerns grow among stakeholders.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Greg Hands' appointment as a strategic adviser to EP Group comes after the conglomerate's controversial acquisition of Royal Mail, which raised national security concerns. Simon Goodley notes that Hands' experience in government will be invaluable as EP Group navigates the UK and German markets. Meanwhile, Bloomberg highlights that Hands will focus on regulatory developments, particularly in energy security. The Independent emphasizes the long-standing relationship between Hands and Kretinsky, suggesting that this connection may bolster EP Group's strategic initiatives in the region.
How we got here
Greg Hands, who lost his seat in the House of Commons last July, has a long-standing relationship with Kretinsky. EP Group's acquisition of Royal Mail was approved in December 2024, raising national security concerns during the review process.
Go deeper
- What does this mean for Royal Mail?
- How will Hands influence energy policy?
- What are the implications for UK foreign investment?
Common question
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What is Greg Hands' New Role in Energy Security?
Former UK trade minister Greg Hands has taken on a significant role as a strategic adviser to the Czech conglomerate EP Group. His appointment comes at a crucial time for energy markets in the UK and Germany, especially following EP Group's controversial acquisition of Royal Mail. This page explores the implications of his new position and the broader impact on energy security and sustainable solutions.
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What is Greg Hands' New Role with the EP Group?
Greg Hands, the former UK trade minister, has taken on a significant new role as a strategic adviser to the EP Group. This appointment comes at a crucial time for the UK and German energy markets, especially following the EP Group's controversial acquisition of Royal Mail. Here are some common questions about his new position and its implications.
More on these topics
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Royal Mail Group plc is a British postal service and courier company, originally established in 1516. The company's subsidiary Royal Mail Group Limited operates the brands Royal Mail and Parcelforce Worldwide.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
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International Distribution Services plc (formerly Royal Mail Limited, Royal Mail plc and International Distributions Services plc) is a British company providing postal and courier services. The UK government initially retained a 30% stake in the company.