by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | business, commerce, money, news, Travel
A legislation prohibiting false reviews and concealed charges, which deceive online buyers out of £2.2 billion annually, will take effect today.
Websites imposing additional ‘administrative fees’ or ‘ticket booking fees’ must now include these charges within the total cost of the purchase upfront instead of adding them secretly when customers are about to complete their payment.
The prohibition, part of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill enacted during the previous administration, falls under this legislation.
UK government
This will impact travel agencies, ticketing websites, and food delivery applications.
Nevertheless, this will not affect any required additional expenses like particular airline seat selections and luggage upgrades for your flights.
This alteration requires online retailers to block and eliminate counterfeit customer reviews on their platforms as part of an effort to halt companies from building misleading reputations.
As reported by the Department for Business and Trade, consumers spend £2.2 billion annually on concealed charges. This new initiative aims to provide individuals with greater ‘authority over their finances.’
Justin Madders, the Minister for Competition and Markets, stated: “As of today, consumers can confidently make their purchases assured that they have protection against counterfeit reviews and hidden price increases.”
These modifications will empower consumers to have greater authority and management over their earnings, along with assisting in creating fair competition by discouraging unethical players who undermine law-abiding companies.
Studies have shown that concealed fees can soar up to 25 percent of the initial cost, with nearly half of internet merchants incorporating obligatory additional charges into their prices in one way or another.
Out of the 45 percent who incorporate fees referred to as ‘dripped pricing,’ 21 percent originate from the travel and hospitality industries, whereas retail contributes approximately 3 percent.
The effort to crack down on hidden charges follows last year when numerous Oasis fans became enraged due to Ticketmaster’s ‘dynamic pricing,’ which thwarted their ticket-buying efforts.
purchase tickets for the rock group’s spectacular comeback this summer
.
Approximately 14 million enthusiasts devoted one Saturday in August of last year to this endeavor.
attempting to obtain tickets to watch
siblings Noel and Liam Gallagher come together again for an extensive tour across the UK and Ireland.
However, enthusiastic supporters were furious when the cost of standing tickets increased from a face value of £150 to £355 shortly after, owing to high demand.
Audiences labeled Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing strategy as ‘a complete outrage.’
expressed strong criticism towards the company’s leadership, which includes CEO Michael Rapino, UK Managing Director Andrew Parsons, President Mark Yovich, and COO Michael Wichser
.
The ‘dynamic pricing’ mechanism, launched by Ticketmaster in 2022, functions through
adjusting ticket prices according to demand – akin to how Uber calculates fares or airlines set seat prices
.
Once tickets at their original prices sell out, ticket vendors make additional ones available at increased costs, which were pre-negotiated with the artist’s management team and promoters, though these aren’t offered to the broader audience.
Importantly, Oasis – frequently celebrated as icons of the working class – had the option to reject dynamic pricing and maintain a more affordable price point for their fans.
In 2022, singer Tom Grennan stated that he had eliminated all VIP and platinum ticket choices because of the cost-of-living crisis.
Ticketmaster claims this undesirable practice stems from market dynamics and asserts that the additional funds generated from the increased ticket prices for Oasis shows will benefit the band directly.
The idea behind dynamic pricing is that by raising prices on official sites, scalpers will be deterred, allowing artists to retain additional profits.
The ‘In-Demand’ tickets are frequently referred to as ‘platinum tickets,’ however, they do not provide any additional perks for customers like VIP access.
Mr. Rapino, who leads Live Nation Entertainment—the company behind Ticketmaster—faced criticism when the Oasis tickets went on sale.
A user posted: “You represent all that is flawed within the live events sector.”
Someone else commented: ‘Michael Ticketmaster are a joke, and you’re a greedy scam artist.’
Demand-based pricing is Ticketmaster essentially becoming the scalpers itself.
Thousands of UK fans contacting their MPs. We’ll see you in court.”
Mr Rapino, who
resides in Los Angeles with his spouse and their three kids
is renowned for his ‘rock-star compensation packages’ and received $139 million in 2022, placing him among the top-earning executives in American corporations.
Other individuals requested Mr. Parsons to clarify himself during an interview, remarking, “Dynamic ticket pricing?? A complete scam perpetuated by his firm!”
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by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | africa, business, crime, Travel, workers
Nairobi:
Furious Kenyans have flooded into the Trustpin Travel Agency to seek repayment of the millions they invested with hopes that the agency would arrange employment opportunities for them in Mauritius.
The Trustpin Agency is linked to Mary Kamunge, known as Rish Kamunge; it can be found on Moi Avenue in Nairobi. The resolute and angry victims refused to hear any clarifications.
A female candidate with experience as both a driver and a caretaker was present among those looking for employment at the event. She mentioned that they had been informed the positions were readily available, and they would commence work right away.
“As the director informed us, the positions were prepared, and upon our arrival, we would commence work as per his arrangements,” stated Faith Nasimiyu.
People who came forward stated that the victims found out about the travel agency via social media platforms, where Kamunge promoted job openings overseas for jobless individuals from Kenya. Equipped with necessary paperwork, these aspiring candidates went to the office and paid an amount ranging from KSh. 200,000 to Ksh400,000.
The funds were intended to cover flights, brokerage charges, and additional expenses. Many resorted to taking out loans, while some even sold their assets—only to discover they had become victims of a catastrophic fraud.
“I paid Ksh.193,000 for a non-existent job,” lamented Beatrice Njoki.
For some victims, it is even worse because they were actually taken to Mauritius only to find themselves stranded at the airport without food or any other support.
As such, they had no choice but to go back to Kenya as a disheartened group.
“We were instructed to await the same plane that had transported us there to bring us back to Nairobi,” Nasimiyu stated.
“I was able to gather Ksh.430,000 for my brother so he could obtain employment in Mauritius. However, he didn’t find a job upon his arrival,” stated Erick Ochieng.
The group stated that they had informed the Central Police Station about the issue, yet minimal actions were carried out as a result.
Through her attorney, Kamunge stated that arrangements were underway to reimburse the victims. However, she mentioned that she intended to subtract the funds her firm had expended throughout the whole process.
“The arrangement is that we will deduct a certain sum which was utilized for facilitating their travel. We have already begun processing refunds for some cases; however, this particular instance stands alone,” stated the attorney.
by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | health, healthcare and medicine, healthy living, medicine and healthcare, wellness
To mark World Health Day in 2025 under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” prominent FMCG firm, Orange Group, is introducing a novel venture into health and wellness called “Sip Wellness with Herbasip.” This campaign aims to inspire Nigerians to adopt healthier living practices via easy-to-follow, readily available options.
Orange Group’s Director of Media and Communications,
Uchenna Ezenna
, states,
At the Orange Group, we strive to enhance the lives of Nigerians via cutting-edge, easily available, and advantageous offerings. The theme for this year’s World Health Day—‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’—syncs seamlessly with our ‘Sip Wellness’ initiative alongside Herbasip. We feel that cultivating a wellness-oriented mindset begins with straightforward daily decisions. Through Herbasip, we provide an easy and tasty means for all individuals to emphasize their wellbeing and look forward to a more radiant, healthy tomorrow.
Herbasip is a health supplement made from natural herbs recognized for enhancing immune function, which helps alleviate cold symptoms, strengthen resistance, and support general wellbeing suitable for both adults and children. The Orange Group remains dedicated to improving communal health by providing scientifically validated natural items designed to easily fit into everyday routines.
The main focus of the campaign, titled “Sip Wellness,” emphasizes that minor adjustments in your everyday life can contribute to improved health. It showcases how integrating immunity-enhancing components into regular habits provides an easy and pleasant method for focusing on wellness.
Starting from April 7, 2025, a multiplatform social media campaign using the hashtag #SipToWellness will highlight how Herbasip, an immunity-boosting beverage, has become the go-to brand for fostering “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” This initiative aims to promote basic wellness practices.
The campaign will include partnerships with prominent wellness and health experts Damian Avar (@therealsabidoctor) and Dr.
Adefunke
, who will conduct enlightening Q&A sessions, product demonstrations, and educational videos. The purpose of these initiatives is to inform viewers about the significance of supporting their immune systems via practical and simple daily habits.
About Orange Group
Orange Group stands as a premier innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector within Nigeria, dedicated to delivering top-notch, cutting-edge items that elevate everyday consumer experiences. The organization places significant emphasis on enhancing communal welfare through the creation and promotion of product lines aimed at boosting wellness and encouraging more healthy living practices.
Website:
Home
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/orange_nigeria/?hl=en
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/OrangeGroupNG/
Twitter:
https://x.com/orange_nigeria
TikTok:
by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | diet and nutrition, health, health advice, health tips, healthy living
Individuals with diabetes ought to restrict their consumption of brown rice to about 100 grams per meal, pairing it with items rich in fiber and protein.
For individuals with diabetes, brown rice is preferable over white rice because of its lower Glycemic Index (GI). This characteristic aids in avoiding sharp increases in blood glucose. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to eat it in limited quantities, accompanied by dishes high in fiber and protein, and participate in some gentle exercise post-meals to keep your blood sugar stable.
Dr. Tran Thi Tra Phuong from the Department of Dietary Management at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi explains that brown rice has a lower glycemic index (under 55 versus 76 for white rice). This means it gets digested more slowly, aiding in stable blood glucose levels. Additionally, brown rice includes bran and germ, rich sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and proteins essential for decreasing inflammation, enhancing insulin response, and promoting general well-being.
Adding brown rice to your meals can enhance feelings of fullness, aid in managing body weight, improve cholesterol profiles, and lower the chances of developing heart disease and certain cancers. Furthermore, the B vitamins found in brown rice assist in generating red blood cells and boosting metabolic processes for energy.
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A serving of brown rice accompanied by various side dishes. Stock image courtesy of Unsplash.
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Advice from Dr. Phuong regarding brown rice intake for individuals with diabetes:
1. Opt for unpolished brown rice over white varieties.
2. Monitor portion sizes carefully as even healthy grains can affect blood sugar levels.
3. Incorporate into meals balanced with vegetables and lean proteins.
4. Cook properly to enhance digestibility without compromising nutritional value.
5. Consume mindfully considering individual responses and glycemic index sensitivity.
1. Select low glycemic index rice
There are several varieties of brown rice, including those with
lower GI
Choose brown rice with its bran layer intact for increased fiber and vitamin content, since refined varieties offer fewer nutrients.
2. Control the amount
Although brown rice is beneficial for individuals with diabetes due to its nutritional profile, it remains a type of carbohydrate that can elevate blood glucose levels when consumed excessively. Diabetic patients ought to restrict their daily carbohydrate consumption to approximately 55% of their total caloric intake.
The acceptable quantity of brown rice can differ depending on one’s activity levels, bodyweight, and personal tolerance for carbs; therefore, it’s crucial to seek advice from a healthcare provider or dietitian.
3. Blend with other healthy food options
Steer clear of serving brown rice with sugary or refined starch dishes. Opt instead for combining it with veggies.
fresh fruits
Include legumes and lean proteins to aid in balancing nutrition and slowing down sugar absorption.
The American Diabetes Association suggests using a proportional approach for meals: fill 25% of your plate with foods like brown rice or other carbohydrates, allocate 50% for non-starchy vegetables, and dedicate another 25% to lean proteins.
4. Proper preparation
The glycemic index of brown rice is influenced by different cooking techniques. High-heat exposure causes the starch within brown rice to break down into a gelled state, which may elevate its glycemic index. To maintain a lower glycemic index, steaming is recommended as the optimal method; however, boiling or using either a pressure cooker or a rice cooker still aids in keeping the GI relatively low.
Stay away from frying or stir-frying brown rice since doing so adds extra oils and sugars, making it less healthy.
5. Avoid frequent consumption
Brown rice includes phytic acid or phytates, potentially hindering the absorption of minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc. Individuals managing diabetes ought to vary their intake of brown rice with alternatives like potatoes, oats, quinoa, or legumes to ensure a well-rounded diet.
6. Regularly check your blood glucose levels
Every person responds uniquely to brown rice, hence it’s crucial to keep an eye on
blood sugar levels
Following meals, if your blood glucose increases considerably, modify the serving sizes or alter how you prepare the food.
Dr. Phuong additionally points out that the substantial fiber content in brown rice could lead to gastrointestinal problems for individuals with preexisting digestive conditions, indigestion, or those recovering from recent digestive surgeries. Continual assessment and modification of dietary habits are essential for sustaining good health.
by admin | Apr 14, 2025 | dental care, dentistry, diet and nutrition, health, teeth
By Elizabeth Larkwor Baah
On April 11, GNA reported from Tema that Dr. Kakra Bonsu Appiah, who leads the Dental and Oral Surgery Department at Tema General Hospital, stated that tooth decay is now the prevalent oral issue among Tema’s inhabitants.
Dr. Appiah mentioned that they’ve seen an increase in patients experiencing cavities, toothaches, and various issues related to inadequate dental care.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, he stated that tooth decay occurs when the tooth’s structure breaks down because of acids generated by mouth bacteria. These microorganisms flourish on sugar-rich foods and inadequate brushing routines, highlighting the importance of maintaining proper dental care to avoid this condition.
“The primary reason for tooth decay is inadequate oral care. Upon examining the development of dental caries, one can see that bad oral habits are the main factor behind them; this involves allowing food particles to remain between the teeth,” he explained.
Dr. Appiah pointed out that numerous cases seen at the hospital might have been prevented with consistent brushing, a healthy diet, and routine dental exams. She highlighted that keeping up your oral hygiene isn’t solely about achieving sparkling teeth; it’s fundamentally important for your general health as well.
He recommended that residents should scrub their teeth at minimum two times each day using fluoride-based toothpaste, use dental floss frequently to clear out bits of food stuck between teeth, cut down on sweet treats and beverages, along with scheduling visits to the dentist biannually.
The dentist likewise voiced worry that individuals only went to the hospital once the discomfort had become intolerable, encouraging Ghanaians to make regular dental visits to avoid crises.
Dr. Appiah additionally urged parents to teach their children proper dental care habits at a young age and to cut down on consuming sweets.
GNA
LS/KOA
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
