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An employment tribunal has ruled in favor of over 3,500 female sales consultants at Next, stating they were unjustly paid less than male warehouse workers. The ruling, which could cost Next over £30 million, is a significant victory in the fight against gender pay discrimination. Next plans to appeal the decision.
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Two loggers were killed by the uncontacted Mashco Piro tribe in Peru's Amazon on August 29, 2024. The incident highlights escalating tensions between Indigenous groups and loggers encroaching on their territory. Rescue efforts are ongoing for two missing loggers, while rights groups call for government intervention to protect Indigenous peoples.
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A new report reveals that climate change significantly increased the likelihood and severity of wildfires in Canada, the Amazon, and Greece from March 2023 to February 2024. Wildfire-related carbon emissions were 16% above average, with Canada experiencing unprecedented fire activity, contributing to global warming and ecosystem damage.
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As major U.S. drugstore chains face significant closures and competition from online retailers, over a million square feet of retail space in New York City remains vacant. Initiatives like San Francisco's 'Vacant to Vibrant' aim to revitalize downtown areas, while drugstores adapt with smaller formats and integrated health services.
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A federal judge ruled that Google illegally maintained a monopoly in online search through exclusive agreements with device manufacturers. The U.S. Department of Justice is now considering remedies, including a potential breakup of the company. This landmark decision could reshape the tech landscape, particularly affecting Google's lucrative contracts with Apple and others.
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As of August 14, 2024, significant discounts are available on back-to-school electronics and home appliances. Notable deals include discounts on Apple products, vacuum cleaners, and kitchen appliances from brands like Ninja and Shark. Consumers are encouraged to take advantage of these limited-time offers.
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Cybersecurity firm Wiz has announced the opening of its first European headquarters in London, aiming to expand its UK workforce by 100 employees by year-end. This move follows a rejected $23 billion acquisition offer from Alphabet, highlighting the UK's growing tech ambitions.
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Bookloop, a new book buy-back service by Bookshop.org, allows UK customers to exchange pre-owned books for store credit. This initiative aims to support independent booksellers and authors while promoting sustainability, providing an ethical alternative to Amazon's resale market.
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Mark Ross, 32, has been charged with the murder of Claudiu-Carol Kondor, a delivery driver killed during a van theft in Leeds. The trial is scheduled for March 4, 2025, following Kondor's tragic death on August 20, 2024, while he attempted to prevent the theft of his vehicle.
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Amazon has received approval from the UK's Civil Aviation Authority to test delivery drones beyond visual line of sight. This trial, part of a broader initiative, aims to gather safety data and could lead to home deliveries by the end of 2024. Other projects include emergency medical supply deliveries and infrastructure inspections.
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Jeff Bezos has purchased a Gulfstream G700 private jet for $80 million, marking his fourth aircraft acquisition. The jet features advanced technology and luxury amenities, contributing to a significant carbon footprint from his flights. This purchase reflects the growing trend of high-net-worth individuals investing in private aviation. (Published: Tue, 27 Aug 2024)
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Airlines are exploring innovative methods to reduce carbon emissions, such as Lufthansa's use of sharkskin-inspired technology on aircraft. Meanwhile, the UK faces challenges in meeting its climate targets, with a recent report highlighting insufficient plans to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The urgency for effective carbon removal strategies is emphasized globally.
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Walmart has announced a partnership with Burger King to provide Walmart+ members with discounts, including 25% off digital orders and a free Whopper every three months. This initiative aims to enhance the appeal of Walmart's membership program amid competition with Amazon Prime.
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Brazil is grappling with a severe wildfire crisis, particularly in Sao Paulo, where smoke has led to school closures and health warnings. President Lula da Silva and Environment Minister Marina Silva have declared a 'war' on the fires, which are suspected to be deliberately set. Emergency measures are underway as air quality deteriorates across multiple regions.
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The second season of Amazon's 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' premiered on August 29, 2024, featuring new cast members and a continuation of the epic story. The series has garnered significant attention, with over 100 million viewers for its first season and props supplied by Scottish company Scaramanga.
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Amazon has launched Rufus, an AI-powered shopping assistant, in the UK as of September 4, 2024. Initially available to select users in the mobile app, Rufus can answer various shopping queries and provide product recommendations. This follows its earlier introduction in the US and highlights Amazon's commitment to generative AI technology.
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As the holiday shopping season approaches, retailers are launching early sales to mitigate potential slowdowns due to election uncertainties. Major chains like Lowe's and Amazon are already promoting holiday merchandise, with many shoppers expected to start buying as early as August.
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Catch Hospitality Group is launching 'The Corner Store' in Soho, New York, on September 9, 2024. The eatery will feature a diverse menu inspired by classic dishes from various city restaurants, alongside a unique cocktail program, aiming to create a neighborhood staple.