Off-the-shelf AI vs. Custom AI: Choosing the right fit

As AI adoption accelerates, organisations must decide how to incorporate AI into their strategy. This guide explores considerations such as cost, speed, and data privacy for selecting off-the-shelf or custom AI.

Off-the-shelf AI These are pre-built tools designed by third-party vendors to solve common problems. They’re quick to deploy, cost-effective, and user-friendly, especially for teams without deep expertise.

Example: Microsoft 365 Copilot Copilot integrates AI across Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams, and more. It helps users write emails, create presentations, and summarise meetings, all within Microsoft's secure environment. For instance, in Teams, it can attend meetings, transcribe conversations, and create searchable summaries.

Still, businesses must manage file access to avoid unintentional data exposure.

Agentic AI: The next step Agentic AI is emerging as a powerful tool: autonomous systems trained for specific tasks. These AI agents can operate independently, drawing on internal data systems to complete their tasks.

Platforms like Copilot Studio enable businesses to build agents themselves offering a blend of off-the-shelf simplicity and custom capabilities. Agents can be trained to handle licensing, support, or data integration across HR, finance, and CRM systems.

Custom AI Custom AI involves building or fine-tuning models of your own. It offers control and strategic advantage but demands more time, budget, and knowledge.

It’s ideal for businesses with unique workflows or compliance needs. For example, a company needing AI that accesses multiple internal systems securely might opt for custom-built solutions.

How to choose Ask yourself:

• Are your needs generic or highly specific?
• What’s your budget and timeline?
• Do you handle regulated or confidential data?
• Will your needs grow over time?

Best practices Regardless of the path you choose:

• Secure leadership buy-in.
• Start with proof of concept, then pilot and scale.
• Use cross-functional teams.
• Offer training and change support.
• Track success through KPIs.

Conclusion Off-the-shelf AI offers speed and simplicity; custom AI delivers depth and differentiation. The choice depends on your goals, data, and resources. As a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider, we support Microsoft 365 Copilot adoption and offer in-house custom AI development through our Data & AI team – supporting you no matter your needs.

For more information, you can reach us through https://www.fluidone.com/contact, call us at 01273 384100 or email us at brighton@fluidone.com to get in touch with our experts today to find out how we can help empower your business.

Build your confidence in supporting people with sight loss.

Join Sight Support Worthing's lively, CPD-certified Visual Impairment Awareness workshop and gain the skills, confidence, and understanding to better support people living with sight loss. This interactive session is designed to challenge common myths, break down barriers and leave you feeling empowered to offer support in a respectful, inclusive way.

Led by our fantastic in-house trainers, James and Alison — who bring a wealth of lived experience and expert knowledge — this fun, friendly workshop offers practical tools, real-world insights and a fresh perspective through the social model of disability and beyond.

You'll learn how to:

- Safely and confidently guide someone with a visual impairment

- Communicate effectively and creatively to support accessibility

- Champion equality, diversity and inclusion in your community or workplace

- Understand the social, legal, and everyday realities of sight loss

Who’s it for?

This workshop is perfect for anyone keen to build awareness and inclusive skills both in the workplace and life in general.

When: Wednesday 13th August, 10am–1pm  

Where: Sight Support Worthing Centre, 48 Rowlands Road, Worthing, BN11 3JT  

Cost: £30 per person  

Book your place here

Have questions or need more info? Call us on 01903 235782 or send us a message; we’d love to hear from you!

Lightning Fibre’s Customer Numbers Soar as Local Internet Service Provider Scoops two National Awards

Full Fibre broadband network operator and Internet Service Provider (ISP) Lightning Fibre has won two UK Fibre Awards reflecting their recent growth across the South East. More and more households and businesses are making the switch to Lightning Fibre, to access affordable, reliable full fibre broadband. Using the latest full fibre optic technology, the new infrastructure provides lightning fast, rock solid broadband with symmetric speeds from 100Mbps to 10,000Mbps.

At the UK Fibre Awards 2025, Lightning Fibre was recognised as the sector’s ‘Take-Up Champion’ and was also awarded ‘Sales/Commercial Team of the Year’, standing out among national providers for its impressive growth, high retention and customer-first approach.

With UK households feeling the pinch from rising bills, Lightning Fibre has introduced a brand new 100Mbps package for just £22 per month, fixed for two years. This is in addition to the Summer Sale, which has seen the price of the 500Mbps package reduced from £32 per month to £25 per month, fixed for two years. This offer ends on 30^th September.

Rob Reaks, Chief Commercial Officer said, “An increasing number of people are making the switch from old copper technology to full fibre; in many cases this means moving away from a large, national ISP.  Typically, these mainstream providers impose annual inflationary price rises, mid-contract, which is unpopular with consumers. With Lightning Fibre, the price today is the price you pay for a full two years.”

The company is now used to winning prestigious awards, having scooped the Internet Service Providers’ Association ‘Best Consumer ISP’ award two years running. Customers rate the company ‘excellent’ on Trustpilot, with 95% of reviews having either 4 or 5 stars. Lightning Fibre has a local customer service team available on the phone every day from 8am – 8 pm.

As a local company, Lightning Fibre also supports the local community through charity support and event sponsorship. This year, Lightning Fibre is the headline sponsor of the Hastings Comedy Festival (June) and Hailsham Festival (Sept), and was a major financial supporter of the Eastbourne Carnival and Hastings Pirate Day.

Event organisers of Hastings Comedy Festival said, “This year, with over 90 events across Hastings and St. Leonards, we’re excited to report an improvement in our attendance goal, reaching 77%. A huge thank you to our main sponsor, Lightning Fibre for their continued support in making this community event a success. We also appreciate all the venues and their teams for generously hosting us.”

Lightning Fibre has a shop inside the Enterprise Shopping Centre, Eastbourne open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Check availability online at www.LightningFibre.co.uk

Allica Bank cuts commercial mortgage rates and eases affordability in major product enhancement

Allica Bank, the challenger bank for established businesses, has announced a raft of enhancements to its commercial mortgage and specialist buy-to-let proposition. The changes will mean it’s able to support an even wider pool of established businesses, alongside providing a pricing discount for businesses that also open a bank account with it.

The bank has cut all its owner-occupied and semi-commercial investment mortgage rates by 0.25% from 16th June, following an earlier reduction in February this year across its lending products.

It has also announced a 0.10% cut to its specialist buy-to-let offering, which was launched earlier this year with an aim to have made £100 million in offers by the end of the year.

Allica has revealed it will also offer a special 0.25% discount for any business that opens a business current account alongside a commercial owner-occupied mortgage, as it looks to ramp up the number of customers that also use it for day-to-day banking.

This adds to Allica’s existing range of discounts, which include offering a 0.25% for properties with an EPC rating of A to C, for loans over £750,000, or for businesses which demonstrate 2x repayment cover.

Rounding off the enhancements, Allica has also improved its affordability criteria, reducing the stress rate it uses to assess base rate linked loans to just 1%, and debt service cover (DSC) requirements for semi-commercial mortgages to 120%.

Allica Bank has seen its lending grow rapidly of late, with it announcing that its loan book had grown to over £3 billion in 2024 and it has made a range of enhancements to its asset finance and bridging propositions in the last few months, too.

John Harrison, Head of Relationship Management at Allica Bank, said, "The market is changing fast and it's important that Allica is changing with it. We're in close contact with our SME clients and the wider market in Cambridgeshire, and this range of changes to our proposition reflects what we're hearing from them.

“By reducing our pricing and affordability requirements, we hope we can support even more businesses to achieve their growth plans with the speed and human expertise Allica has become known for.

“I’m pleased, too, to introduce this discount for business owners that also open a bank account with Allica, as we look to support established businesses in even more ways than just lending.”

Electric Storm Youth are seeking a Patron 

Investing in the Next Generation – Let's Work Together

We know that strong communities are built through shared effort and that youth work plays a vital role in shaping the future of West Sussex. As a local charity working closely with young people, we're always looking to connect with others who share our commitment to helping the next generation thrive.

That’s where you come in.

Do you remember the path you took to get where you are today?
Was there someone who gave you guidance, encouragement, or an opportunity at the right time?

We’d love to hear your story, and even more, we’d love to explore how your business, experience, or insight could help inspire and support the young people we work with today.

At Electric Storm Youth, we believe every young person deserves a safe space to feel heard, valued, and inspired. Every day, our team works alongside young people, listening without judgment, encouraging without pressure, and creating opportunities for growth, connection, and purpose.

From drop-in sessions and community projects to one-to-one support, we’re here to support every young person. We embrace every opportunity to grow, adapt, and reach young people in meaningful ways. We’re looking for advocates who share our passion and bring their unique skills, experience, and networks to strengthen the impact of our work

We’re looking for patrons who care deeply about the next generation.
Whether you're a business leader, a community champion, or someone with a heart for young people, becoming a patron means becoming part of real, lasting change. 

 Being a patron isn’t just about funding, it’s about raising the profile of our mission, championing young people, and using your voice and platform to advocate for the importance of Electric Storm Youth charitable work. 

As a Patron your  support helps us grow our reach, deepen our impact, and keep showing up for the young people who need us most.

Contact; Karen Jefford, CEO karen@electricstormyouth.co.uk to apply or find out more about becoming a patron today.

Catch up with the University of Chichester's Summer Newsletter

Welcome to Careers and Employability Service newsletter! We are pleased to be bringing you exciting and important updates from The University of Chichester. Our very first edition includes important information about our Senior Leadership Degree Apprenticeships, work placements, upcoming events and event highlights from a successful academic year. 

Read the newsletter here

Suspended Ceilings: A Complete Guide to Installation, Types & Benefits

Suspended ceilings continue to be in high demand across UK commercial, healthcare and retail sectors.  This guide covers the key information you need to help you choose the right ceiling system for your project. 

Choosing the Right Suspended Ceilings for Your Space

Also known as a false, or drop ceiling, suspended ceilings comprise the tiles and the framework on which they’re installed.  The ‘drop’ provides a cavity space where pipes, cables, security cameras, lighting  and HVAC systems can be hidden.  However, there are wider benefits too: cost-effectiveness, easy access to utilities, aesthetics, improved acoustics, heating and energy efficiency and design flexibility.

It’s not just accessibility and aesthetics that will drive your choice; the type of environment, price and also environmental considerations will also play a part.  In fact, there is increasing demand for sustainable and recyclable ceiling solutions.

Types of Suspended Ceilings for UK Projects

●       Free span - has no exposed grid, providing a seamless look with tiles supported on the perimeter trim.

●       Open grid - these systems are a strong design choice giving an industrial, modern look.  The ceilings are made up only of an exposed latticed framework structure and are installed without tiles.

●       Stretch grid - this is a suspended ceiling made of either PVC film (heated and stretched) or fabric, attached to wall-mounted aluminium profiles.  They provide a wide range of designs and finishes with both light projection and acoustic benefits. On the flip-side they make the ceiling cavity above it inaccessible without removing the whole ceiling.

●       Concealed and exposed grid systems - a popular choice for refurbishments, these ceilings have an aluminium framework which is either visible or hidden once the tiles are attached.

Suspended Ceilings - Getting the Look You Want

1. Mineral Fibre Tiles:

1. These are the most common tiles chosen in the UK because they are cost-effective, provide good acoustic performance, and are fire-resistant. They are used widely in offices, schools and general commercial spaces, such as warehouses, distribution centres, trade outlets.

1. Gypsum Fibre Tiles:

1. If you want improved sound insulation and moisture resistance than mineral fibre tiles offer, then these higher density tiles are a good choice. They are particularly good for better acoustic control, so are great for kitchens, toilet and washing facilities and high-traffic areas.

1. Metal Ceilings

1. Acoustic Baffles/Panels

1. Baffles are used for specialist sound control and are suspended vertically to absorb sound.  They are used in areas where noise reduction is critical.  The obvious example is recording studios, but they are also frequently found in open-plan offices and restaurants.

1. PVC/Vinyl Tiles

1. Probably the least aesthetically pleasing but hugely practical for areas prone to damp such as toilet/washroom facilities and kitchen because they are waterproof and easy to clean.

1. Wood Wool Tiles

1. Find an Experienced Ceiling Installation Company

1. Suspended ceilings need accurate specification and design; expert fitters will save you time and money.  However, as with all construction projects, quality can vary widely.  Installation and suspended ceiling companies can be found with a quick google but on top of taking your usual precautions such as taking references from other clients, we recommend finding a company that provides a complete workplace interiors fit out service like Phoenix Systems.  Interior fit-out companies have a wealth of experience of not only fitting ceilings but also working with the requirements of your wider project. Experienced fitters can also advise on the best choice of ceiling tile and ceiling frame to meet your needs.

1. Choosing the Right Ceiling Tile Type & System

1. It’s easy to be tempted to be driven solely by price so that you can spend more on ‘eye-level’ aesthetics such as decoration and furniture, however cheaper tiles can often mean a lower product quality.  While it might seem to be ‘just a ceiling tile’, a lower spec product is more likely to sag, discolour and deteriorate more quickly, costing you more in the long-term.

1. Cabling and ventilation

1. Moisture levels

1. Sound levels (and dampening requirements)

1. Load-bearing capacity

1. Design and aesthetics

1. Cost

1. On-going maintenance

1. UK Regulatory Requirements for Suspended Ceilings

1. Suspended Ceilings Costs Guide & Avoiding Hidden Costs

1. It will be no surprise that the larger the space, the higher the cost.  Your choice of framework and tile will affect the average price range per square metre.  When preparing your budget, plan for the unexpected.  Here are some items which need to be planned for: 

Suspended ceilings continue to be in high demand across UK commercial, healthcare and retail sectors.  This guide covers the key information you need to help you choose the right ceiling system for your project. 

Also known as a false, or drop ceiling, suspended ceilings comprise the tiles and the framework on which they’re installed.  The ‘drop’ provides a cavity space where pipes, cables, security cameras, lighting  and HVAC systems can be hidden.  However, there are wider benefits too: cost-effectiveness, easy access to utilities, aesthetics, improved acoustics, heating and energy efficiency and design flexibility.

It’s not just accessibility and aesthetics that will drive your choice; the type of environment, price and also environmental considerations will also play a part.  In fact, there is increasing demand for sustainable and recyclable ceiling solutions.

●       Free span - has no exposed grid, providing a seamless look with tiles supported on the perimeter trim.

●       Open grid - these systems are a strong design choice giving an industrial, modern look.  The ceilings are made up only of an exposed latticed framework structure and are installed without tiles.

●       Stretch grid - this is a suspended ceiling made of either PVC film (heated and stretched) or fabric, attached to wall-mounted aluminium profiles.  They provide a wide range of designs and finishes with both light projection and acoustic benefits. On the flip-side they make the ceiling cavity above it inaccessible without removing the whole ceiling.

●       Concealed and exposed grid systems - a popular choice for refurbishments, these ceilings have an aluminium framework which is either visible or hidden once the tiles are attached.

DISCOVER RECENT PROJECTS

At present, there are the main types of ceiling tiles in the UK, each with its own benefits. 

Durable and stylish, metal ceilings are the choice for a premium aesthetic as they come in a range of finishes.  Frequently used for reception areas, retail spaces and high-end office design.  Note, they tend to be more expensive but longer lasting.

A great choice for eco-conscious projects, wood wool tiles are both sustainable and offer good sound absorption.  Made from recycled wood they provide a natural aesthetic.

During your design phase you’ll need to take into account the following factors:

For safety, your fit-out has to comply with UK building regulations including;

●       Fire - make sure all materials meet UK fire safety standards (BS 476)

●       Part E Building Regulations (Sound Installation) to minimise noise transmission between floors

●       Ventilation & humidity control - moisture levels will impact material selection and make sure that the installation design provides for adequate ventilation to prevent condensation.

●       Site preparation

●       Delivery

●       Waste removal

●       Re-routing of cables and utilities

●       Contingency budget - in the event there are unexpected project overruns which could financially impact your business.

And remember, long-term costs will come into play too.  For example, tile ceilings are more accessible and will therefore be easier and cheaper to maintain if you need to replace a tile or get into the cavity space, versus stretch ceilings which would need to be replaced.

You’re One Call Away from Expert Installation Advice

Suspended ceilings need accurate measurement and expert installation.  Phoenix Systems has a wealth of experience in interior workplace design and installation across the South East and can advise on the best approach for your project.  Send us an email or give us a call today on 01903 765366.

Santander launches annual entrepreneurship competition, with new SME Category added to support more businesses across the UK.

Applications for the Santander X UK Awards1 2025 are now open.

Now in its 15th year, Santander’s annual entrepreneurship awards have provided over £1.1 million in funding and support to thousands of UK businesses to date.

New SME category this year provides support for even more businesses across the UK, at a time when Santander research shows that business confidence has dipped, with confidence in growth dropping to 70% from 74% since autumn 2024.1

Last year, Santander saw more than 850 university and start-up businesses apply for the awards, covering a range of industries including healthcare, sustainability, AI and tech.

Santander is offering early-stage startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK the opportunity to win a share of £135,000 in funding and business support through the Santander X Awards.

The Santander X UK Awards is one of the UK’s largest early-stage business pitching competitions, having provided over £1.1 million in vital funding and business support to thousands of UK businesses to date.

This year the competition has three categories to support businesses at critical points in their business journey:

• University: for new businesses looking to launch
• Startup: for early-stage businesses looking to grow
• SME: for growing businesses looking to scale

150 businesses (50 per category) will be shortlisted by 1 September. The shortlisted businesses will join a series of online pitch workshops. All 150 businesses will then pitch through a series of online and in-person pitching heats to select the final nine (three per category). On 13 November, the 9 finalists will pitch live at the National Final at Unity Place (Santander UK headquarters in Milton Keynes) to a high-profile panel of judges, including Mike Regnier, Santander UK Chief Executive.

The nine winners (three per category) will win a share of £135,000 in funding and secure an automatic place in the Santander X Global Awards, the bank’s international entrepreneurship competition, where they will have the opportunity to compete against some of the best early-stage startups from across Europe and Latin America in Spring 2026.

Mike Regnier, CEO, Santander UK said: “The Santander X UK Awards are back – and this year with a brand new category, opening the competition up to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). At a time where business confidence has been hit by global economic uncertainty, the X Awards offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to come together, develop important business skills, and be in with the chance of winning vital funding. We are proud to celebrate 15 years of championing entrepreneurs and supporting hundreds of UK businesses each year through the Santander X Awards programme. If your business is disruptive with the ability to grow or scale, look no further and apply today.”

Sarah Bailey, Founder of Even, and Santander X Awards 2025 Winner said: “We first participated in the Santander X Awards in 2022 and loved the pitch training and community of founders so much, we returned in 2024 - and won! I highly recommend applying to any early-stage founders. The visibility and network has been exceptional, and the Santander X team have been incredibly generous with creating opportunities for Even.”

For more information, and to apply to enter the Santander X UK Awards 2025, click here

Applications close on 16 July 2025.

Mortimer Clarke Solicitors have an exciting opportunity – they would like to transfer levy funds to pay for and support a business with apprenticeship training and assessment costs.  These funds can only be made to a business who already has an apprenticeship service account and your apprentice will need to start a new programme, as opposed to having already started one, or be midway through one. 

If you would like to express your interest, please send a summary, maximum 500 word count, to louise.campbell@mortimerclarke.co.uk by 4pm on Monday 14 July 2025.  Your submission should include the following:

• An introduction to you and your business;
• Your business highlights;
• Details about your apprenticeship training programme, what qualifications you would like your apprentice to achieve, what role your apprentice will qualify into and why they are necessary to being effective in their role;
• Any other information you feel would benefit including any work you have done within the local community.

Further details regarding the apprenticeship levy and how it can be transferred can be found here:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/transferring-your-apprenticeship-levy-to-another-business

The date for submissions closes 4pm on 4pm Monday 14 July 2025. 

Mortimer Clarke Solicitors, established in 2007, is a local Worthing based law firm specialising in litigation.  They are part of the Cabot Credit Management Group and fall under the Group membership of the Credit Services Association.  Further details can be found here:  

https://www.mortimerclarke.co.uk/   

 https://www.cabotfinancial.co.uk/

Warehouse Step Ladders & Platforms - A Buyers Guide

Not every warehouse operation is the same.  Your choice of platform or ladder will depend on your environment, set-up and how you’re working within it; as a result there is a vast range of ladders and platforms on the market.  In this blog, we look at some of the key items you can look for when selecting your new steps for both safety and productivity.

What to look when buying a ladder or platform

●       Height & racking set-up - choose a ladder that is tall enough to safely reach your highest shelf or rack without forcing someone to stretch.

●       Workspace - The way you are working, the environment and what you are required to do will influence the choice of your ladder or platform for both safety and efficiency. 

●       Frequency of use - how long will your team member be working at a height, if they are picking, will they be working at speed?  The size of the platform, safety features and ease of mobility, should all be considered.

●       Load capacity - load capacity is important.  Safety standards will give you an indication of total load weight e.g. 150kg for EN 131 but any set of steps should have a specified load capacity.

●       Function - are you picking lighter items and moving quickly around the space, then a mobile picking ladder with casters might be your best choice.  If you’re working around vehicles or loading bays, then loading steps will be the better choice.  If you need people to be working a wider area at height, or they need greater stability, look for steps with platforms. 

●       Material handling - if you’re handling lighter items, a lighter, mobile aluminium ladder may be all you need but for boxes or larger items you’ll need greater stability.  Steel or fibreglass steps are best for this and you may want to consider additional safety features such as gates which will stop people toppling backwards when handling goods.

●       Safety features - if you can afford to pack as many safety features into your budget as you can, it’s more than worth it because with humans anything can happen!  From simple handrails to locking casters and safety gates, they all provide that extra peace of mind in a busy area.

●       Safety standards - European and British safety standards apply to many types of ladder.  See below for additional information.

BROWSE LADDERS & PLATFORMS
 

Ladder & Platform Safety Features

There is a wide range of safety features that you choose for your steps and platforms which will depend on how you’re working in your warehouse.  These standards show that your intended equipment has been designed and assessed for safety and function and help you avoid cheaper fakes that may not be up to the job.

EN 131

EN 131 and BS EN 131 are the British and European product standards applicable to all types or portable ladders.  These standards came into effect in January 2019 and replace BS2037 & BS 1129, products under these standards should no longer be available.  All ladders should now be designed and manufactured to comply with EN 131 and this is the standard you should look for when purchasing a new portable ladder. 

EN14183

When purchasing any kind of step stool, stair-type step or dome-type steps (including foldable versions), you need to ensure your product complies with the European design and safety standard EN 14183.

Going with a known brand can also help.  Phoenix Systems stocks UK brands like Climb-IT  which are UK manufactured and come with a guarantee.

Other safety features to look out for include:

●       Safety gates & enclosed platforms

●       Safety locks

●       Anti-slip treads

●       Adjustable stabilisers

●       Non-slip surfaces (for platforms)

●       Hand rails & handle bars for stability

●       Weight-reactive safety steps which retract castors  when body weight is applied.

Further information:

The HSE in the UK provides lots of advice on ladders and their safe use.  Find more information on ladders, working safely at heights & safe use of ladders here .

Phoenix Systems are experts in warehouse and interiors design and fit-outs.  If you're looking for more advice on how to ensure your warehouse or business unit is a safe and productive space to work in, speak to the team today: 01903 765366 or find out more on www.phoenix-sys.co.uk.

https://shop.phoenix-sys.co.uk/aluminium-folding-steps

https://shop.phoenix-sys.co.uk/climb-it-aluminium-platforms-1

https://shop.phoenix-sys.co.uk/climb-it-uk-warehouse-essentials-safety-steps-10

https://shop.phoenix-sys.co.uk/steps-ladders

insert link - https://shop.phoenix-sys.co.uk/brands/climb-it

https://shop.phoenix-sys.co.uk/climb-it-weight-reactive-safety-steps

link to https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/ladders/product-standards.htm