In today’s economy, the old rules no longer apply. The 9-to-5 grind, the long commute, and the capped salary are becoming relics of a past era. Today, people in the United States, Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom, and all across the globe are seeking something more. We crave flexibility—the ability to design our work around our lives, not the other way around. We seek financial independence—the power to earn what we’re worth, not just what a job title dictates. We want to be part of a community, to build something of our own, and to live a life filled with passion and purpose. If this resonates with you, then you are in the right place at the right time. Welcome to Essens. This isn’t just another company. This is an opportunity. A global movement that has already empowered thousands of individuals to transform their lives, and it’s built on a foundation of high-quality, in-demand products in the beauty, health, and home wellness sectors. But more importantly, Essens offers a meticulously crafted business plan—a veritable blueprint for success that anyone with drive and ambition can follow. Whether you’re looking for a “side hustle” to earn an extra $500, €600, or £500 a month, or you’re ready to build a six-figure international empire from your living room, the Essens business model is designed to support your dream. This article is not a simple sales pitch. It is a comprehensive guide. We are going to pull back the curtain and show you the exact step-by-step system that Essens partners use to build their businesses. We will cover the 3-Phase launch process, the incredibly motivating Fast Start Programme, and the four-part Essens Marketing Plan that serves as the engine for your long-term wealth. By the time you finish reading, you will have a clear, actionable understanding of how you can become an Essens Business Partner and start building the life you’ve always deserved. The Essens Opportunity: Why Now? Why You? Before we dive into the “how,” let’s address the “why.” Why Essens? In a world full of options, Essens stands out for three reasons: You don’t need a business degree. You don’t need a massive investment. You just need the ambition to start and the willingness to follow the plan. So, let’s begin. Section 1: Your 3-Phase Launchpad to Success Essens has demystified the process of starting a business. It’s broken down into three simple, manageable phases. Phase 1: Setting Your Foundation (How-To 1) This is all about getting you started on the right foot. Think of this as laying the concrete foundation for the skyscraper you’re about to build. Phase 1 is about orientation and “becoming a product of the product.” Phase 2: Taking Your First Actions (How-To 2) Now that your foundation is set, it’s time to build the first few floors. Phase 2 is about action and gaining your first customers. Phase 2 is about turning your passion into profit and building a base of happy customers. Phase 3: Becoming a Leader (How-To 3) This is the phase that separates hobbyists from high-earners. Phase 3 is where you transition from simply selling products to building a business. This is about leverage and leadership. Phase 3 is about creating a network of successful business partners, and it’s how you unlock the true, long-term wealth potential of the Essens plan. Section 2: Get Rewarded From Day One: The “Fast Start” Programme Waiting for success is hard. Essens knows this, which is why they created the Fast Start Programme—one of the most exciting incentives for new partners. This program is designed to put extra cash in your pocket during those crucial first few months, on top of your regular commissions. It’s rocket fuel for your new business. Here’s how it works: Essens gives you a cash bonus for hitting key ranks (which are based on points, as we’ll see in Plan 1) within a specific timeframe. Here is a simple breakdown (example based on UK £, but equivalent bonuses are paid in EUR and USD): This is game-changing. The Fast Start Programme means that within your first 30 days, you could be earning a significant income. This isn’t a “get-rich-quick” scheme; it’s a “get-rewarded-smart-and-fast” plan. It gives you a powerful story to tell and proves to you, and your new team members, that success is achievable and it’s achievable now. Section 3: The Engine of Your Wealth: The 4-Part Essens Marketing Plan This is the heart of the Essens opportunity. This is where you transition from earning extra cash to building serious, life-changing wealth. The plan is brilliant because it rewards you for four different activities, ensuring you are paid for every aspect of your business’s growth. A quick note on “Points”: Every product has a point value (PV). Your rank and commissions are calculated based on the total points generated by you and your entire team each month. (A minimum of 20 personal points is all that’s required to qualify for commissions from Plan 1). Plan 1: Your Foundation for Profit (Up to 28% Commission) This is the first and most immediate way you earn. It’s based on the total turnover of your entire group. The more points your group generates (from personal sales and team sales), the higher the commission percentage you unlock for the month. The positions are: Here’s the magic: You earn the difference between your commission level and the level of your team members. Let’s use an example: This “differential bonus” is the most powerful incentive for you to help your team succeed. When they win, you win! Plan 1 isn’t just about money; it’s about recognition. Plan 1 is your path to a solid, consistent monthly income that can replace your full-time job. Plan 2: Your Share in Global Success (5% of Global Turnover) This is where the Essens plan becomes truly extraordinary. This is where you stop just earning on your team’s efforts and start earning a share of the entire company’s success. Essens takes 5% of its total global turnover and puts it into a bonus pool for its leaders. This is how you get paid. (This requires
New Weleda Body Lotions – Bigger Sizes, Better Value, and a Fresh New Look!
Discover the newly reformulated Weleda Body Lotions – now in bigger 250ml bottles with sustainable packaging and improved natural formulas. Hydrate, nourish and smooth your skin the eco-friendly way. Nature’s Best, Now Even Better For over 100 years, Weleda has been a pioneer in natural and organic skincare, trusted by those who believe beauty begins with nature. Now, Weleda has reimagined its iconic body care range with reformulated, eco-friendly body lotions that deliver smoother, more radiant skin — while being kinder to the planet. The new Weleda Body Lotions feature: It’s everything you love about Weleda — now enhanced for modern, conscious living. A Greener, Smarter Weleda Bigger Sizes, Better Value Each lotion now comes in a 250ml format, giving you more of your favourite product with less packaging waste. It’s a win-win for your skin and the planet — and at a great price per ml. Sustainable Packaging Made from 100% recycled PET plastic and fully recyclable, Weleda’s new bottles are designed to support a circular economy. This aligns with Weleda’s commitment to zero waste and ethical beauty. Refined Formulas Each lotion has been reformulated with biodynamic plant extracts for enhanced hydration and improved skin feel. Expect lightweight textures, natural fragrances, and lasting moisture — all crafted without synthetic preservatives, mineral oils, or artificial fragrance. Meet the New Weleda Body Lotion Range 💚 Skin Food Body Lotion 250ml | RRP £14.95 | Product Code: 106149Keyword focus: natural body lotion for dry skin, vegan body moisturiser Deep nourishment for very dry skinThe cult-favourite Skin Food has inspired a new generation of moisture care. This body lotion combines the richness of the classic Skin Food formula with a lighter, fast-absorbing texture. Infused with organic sunflower seed oil, shea butter, and calendula extract, it restores softness and locks in moisture — perfect for rough, dry, or flaky skin. Alt text suggestion: Weleda Skin Food Body Lotion bottle surrounded by calendula and sunflower petals 🌹 Wild Rose Smoothing Body Lotion 250ml | RRP £14.95 | Product Code: 106148Keyword focus: natural body lotion, rose body care, organic skincare For velvety-smooth, youthful skinThis beautifully fragrant lotion harnesses the power of organic wild rose oil and jojoba oil to smooth, soften, and improve elasticity. The luxurious floral scent adds a touch of indulgence to your daily routine, while antioxidants help renew the skin’s natural glow. Alt text suggestion: Weleda Wild Rose Body Lotion bottle with rose petals and rosehip fruit ❤️ Pomegranate Firming Serum Body Lotion 250ml | RRP £14.95 | Product Code: 106147Keyword focus: firming body lotion, anti-aging body care, natural skincare For firmer, smoother, and rejuvenated skinEnriched with organic pomegranate seed oil and macadamia nut oil, this vegan lotion supports skin regeneration and firmness. Its antioxidant-rich formula helps combat free radicals and improve elasticity, making it ideal for mature or tired skin. Alt text suggestion: Weleda Pomegranate Firming Body Lotion bottle surrounded by fresh pomegranate seeds 🍋 Citrus Hydrating Body Lotion 250ml | RRP £9.95 | Product Code: 106145Keyword focus: refreshing body lotion, natural citrus body care, vegan moisturiser For fresh, hydrated, and revitalised skinPerfect for summer or after exercise, this light lotion delivers instant refreshment. With organic aloe vera, coconut oil, and lemon essential oil, it leaves skin soft, smooth, and naturally hydrated. The crisp citrus fragrance uplifts the senses — your skin and spirit will both thank you! Alt text suggestion: Weleda Citrus Body Lotion bottle on a bed of fresh lemons and green leaves ☀️ Sea Buckthorn Regenerating Body Lotion 250ml | RRP £14.95 | Product Code: 106146Keyword focus: regenerating body lotion, eco-friendly body care, antioxidant skincare For radiant, replenished, and protected skinInfused with organic sea buckthorn oil, this lotion helps support the skin’s barrier with vitamins A and E. Its vibrant, fruity fragrance evokes sunshine and vitality. It’s ideal for dry, stressed, or dull skin that needs a daily energy boost. Alt text suggestion: Weleda Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion bottle surrounded by sea buckthorn berries Why Choose Weleda? 🌱 Certified Natural & Vegan All Weleda body lotions are NATRUE-certified, ensuring they contain no synthetic preservatives, silicones, or mineral oils — just pure, plant-based ingredients. 🌼 Biodynamic Ingredients Weleda grows many of its herbs in biodynamic gardens, following nature’s rhythms to ensure vitality, purity, and potency. 🌎 Sustainable & Ethical With recyclable packaging, fair trade sourcing, and cruelty-free testing, Weleda continues to lead in eco-friendly skincare innovation. 🧴 Dermatologically Tested Gentle, effective, and suitable for everyday use — even for sensitive skin types. How to Use Weleda Body Lotions for Best Results Find Your Perfect Match Lotion Key Benefit Ideal Skin Type Fragrance Price 💚 Skin Food Body Lotion Deep nourishment Very dry Herbal & citrus £14.95 🌹 Wild Rose Smoothing Softens & smooths Normal to dry Floral & romantic £14.95 ❤️ Pomegranate Firming Firms & revitalises Mature Fruity & sensual £14.95 🍋 Citrus Hydrating Refreshes & hydrates Normal Zesty & energising £9.95 ☀️ Sea Buckthorn Regenerating Protects & restores Dry or dull Fruity & bright £14.95 The Weleda Promise: Beauty in Balance with Nature When you choose Weleda, you’re supporting a philosophy that celebrates harmony between humans and nature. Every product is crafted with respect — for your skin, for farmers, and for the planet. That’s why Weleda remains one of the world’s most trusted names in organic and sustainable skincare. Where to Buy Discover your perfect lotion at the Weleda Advisor Shop and treat your skin to natural body care that truly works. Because when nature leads, beauty follows. 🌿
Pre-Christmas cleaning with ESSENS
Pre-Christmas cleaning with ESSENS Christmas is coming – and many of us want to get our homes clean, tidy and fully ready for this magic holiday season. Make cleaning easier this year and do it well in advance with ESSENS Home Clean products, which guarantee you a perfect result without any annoying huss and fuss! Our ecological and highly effective cleaning products can really handle everything – from grease in the kitchen to stains on your laundry. They will cope with every type of dirt, leaving your home perfectly clean and freshly scented.And now you can get them all with a discount of up to 20%! Here are our top best-sellers that will fight any dirt for you:Kitchen surface cleaner – Perfectly dissolves grease, copes with even stubborn dirt and leaves the kitchen sparkling clean. Multi-purpose cleaner – A universal helper for everyday cleaning of all surfaces – from tables to door handles, streak-free and with long-lasting freshness. Dishwashing detergent – Effective against dirt, but gentle on your hands – perfectly removes grease and leaves dishes beautifully clean and scented. Get your favourite products from the Home Clean line now with a discount of up to 20%.
NEW! Amber Divine – A Ritual of Care That Seduces the Senses
Lather. Inhale. Rinse. Repeat. That’s all it takes to awaken your senses and transform an ordinary shower into a moment of divine indulgence. Introducing Amber Divine, the brand-new, limited edition Shower Cream that has just arrived on our shelves — and already has us completely captivated. 💛 Item number: 104098💛 RRP: £7.50💛 Advisor price: £5.25 Amber Divine is more than just a body cleanser — it’s an experience, a ritual, a journey through warmth, light, and sensual comfort. Every drop tells a story of craftsmanship, care, and connection with nature. A Symphony of Sensations From the very first moment you squeeze the creamy formula into your palm, you’ll notice it — that unmistakable Weleda quality. The texture feels lush and nourishing, gliding effortlessly over the skin as it transforms into a silky lather. Close your eyes, inhale deeply, and let the fragrance carry you away. Amber Divine’s scent is radiant and enveloping. The heart of this limited-edition treasure lies in the perfect balance of warm vanilla, ambery labdanum, and woody vetiver. It’s both grounding and uplifting — a scent that lingers delicately on the skin, evoking the comforting glow of candlelight and the serenity of a quiet evening wrapped in a soft blanket. The name “Amber Divine” could not be more fitting. Amber, long cherished for its golden warmth and mystical aura, has always been a symbol of comfort, strength, and sensuality. Combined with divine natural ingredients, this shower cream transforms your daily routine into an act of care, both for your body and your soul. The Ritual of Care We often rush through our showers, treating them as functional rather than mindful. But with Amber Divine, something changes. Each use becomes a moment of ritual. The gentle lather caresses your skin, cleansing away the day’s worries while its fragrance grounds you in the present moment. The act of washing becomes a form of self-care — a reminder that you deserve moments of luxury, even in the simplest routines. 🌿 Lather: Feel the creamy texture melt into your skin, offering deep hydration and nourishment.🌿 Inhale: Let the natural fragrance rise with the steam, filling your senses with notes of amber, labdanum, and vetiver.🌿 Rinse: Watch as the soft foam dissolves, leaving behind silky-smooth, supple skin.🌿 Repeat: Because once you’ve experienced it, you’ll want to relive it again and again. This isn’t just skincare. It’s soul care. Crafted with Care At Weleda, purity and integrity are at the heart of everything we create. Amber Divine Shower Cream is a celebration of that commitment — crafted with 100% natural ingredients and a 100% natural fragrance, carefully chosen to work in harmony with your skin and your senses. 💧 100% Natural Ingredients:Every component of Amber Divine has been selected from nature’s own palette — plant-based cleansers, nourishing oils, and botanical extracts that leave your skin soft, hydrated, and balanced. No harsh chemicals, no synthetic fragrances — just pure, honest care. 🌸 100% Natural Fragrance:The scent isn’t manufactured; it’s composed. Our experts have blended natural essential oils and plant extracts to create an aroma that feels both grounding and sensual. Amber labdanum provides a rich, resinous depth; vanilla adds a creamy sweetness; and vetiver lends a subtle earthy tone that ties it all together. 🧴 Dermatologically Tested:Gentle enough for all skin types, Amber Divine has been dermatologically tested to ensure skin tolerance. Whether your skin is dry, sensitive, or simply in need of a little TLC, this formula cleanses without stripping away natural moisture. The Allure of Amber Amber has fascinated humans for centuries — not just for its golden beauty, but for its mysterious, comforting energy. It’s often described as the “sun captured in stone.” In Amber Divine, this timeless essence is translated into a warm, glowing fragrance that wraps around you like a soft embrace. The scent journey begins with an inviting sweetness, then deepens into rich, resinous undertones that linger long after your shower. It’s the perfect balance of sensuality and serenity — a fragrance that feels as though it belongs to a golden sunset, melting into dusk. If self-care had a scent, it would be Amber Divine. A Limited-Edition Gem Amber Divine isn’t just another shower cream. It’s a limited edition, available only while stocks last — and trust us, this one won’t stay on the shelves for long. There’s something special about owning a product that won’t be around forever. It makes each use feel more precious, more intentional. It’s the kind of product you want to savor — one you reach for when you need to reconnect with yourself, to turn an everyday routine into a luxurious ritual. If you’ve ever wanted to make your shower feel like a spa, now’s your moment. A Touch of Everyday Luxury Sometimes, luxury doesn’t come from grand gestures or expensive indulgences. It comes from the quiet, personal moments that remind you to slow down and breathe. That’s what Amber Divine embodies — accessible luxury, the kind that fits seamlessly into your day yet leaves you feeling utterly renewed. At £7.50 (Advisor price £5.25), Amber Divine offers an extraordinary sensory experience that feels far more expensive than it is. Every shower becomes a chance to nurture your skin and uplift your spirit — a small, beautiful act of kindness to yourself. Join the Amber Divine Love Affair We’re officially in love with Amber Divine, and we know you will be too. From the first scent to the final rinse, this shower cream seduces the senses and reminds us what true care feels like. Its natural fragrance feels alive, changing subtly as it meets the warmth of your skin. Its creamy texture feels like silk under water. Its after-feel? Supple, hydrated skin that glows from within — as if lit by a golden candlelight. Don’t let this limited-edition treasure pass you by. Treat yourself (or someone special) to the gift of warmth, comfort, and sensual indulgence. ✨ Discover Amber Divine Shower Cream – Item No. 104098💛 RRP: £7.50 | Advisor Price: £5.25🛍️ Available now at: Weleda Advisor – Amber Divine Shower Cream 200ml In Closing: The Ritual Awaits Your shower is more than a routine — it’s a moment of pause, reflection, and renewal. With Amber Divine, each drop invites you to slow down and reconnect with your senses. So go
🌿 Drop It! Mix It! Boost It! – Discover Weleda’s New Serum Booster Drops
Meta Title: Weleda Serum Booster Drops | Natural Skincare You Can Mix, Match & BoostMeta Description: Boost your skincare naturally with Weleda’s new Serum Booster Drops. Six concentrated botanical formulas to hydrate, brighten, and balance your skin — mix, match, and glow!Focus Keywords: Weleda Serum Booster Drops, natural skincare, vegan serum, botanical skincare, Weleda UK, plant-based beauty, organic skincare 🌸 Skincare That Adapts to You Your skin isn’t the same every day — and your skincare shouldn’t be either. Introducing the new Weleda Serum Booster Drops, a range of six highly active, plant-based formulas designed to meet your skin’s changing needs. These natural skincare boosters combine Weleda’s botanical expertise with targeted, skin-loving ingredients — giving you the freedom to mix, match, and personalise your skincare ritual. 💧 Six Botanical Boosters – One Customisable Routine Each Serum Booster Drop harnesses the pure power of plants to nourish, protect, and revitalise your skin naturally. 🌿 The Six Boosters: All six boosters are:✅ 100% certified natural✅ Vegan-friendly✅ Dermatologically tested✅ Free from parabens, silicones & synthetic fragrances 🌿 Image suggestion:Image Alt Text: “Weleda Serum Booster Drops collection – six natural skincare boosters for every skin type.”Suggested placement: Just below this section, showing all six bottles together. 🌱 How to Use – Mix It Your Way The magic of Weleda’s Serum Booster Drops lies in their versatility: Each formula has a silky, fast-absorbing texture that blends seamlessly into your routine, leaving your skin feeling revitalised, balanced, and naturally radiant. 🌼 Image suggestion:Image Alt Text: “Weleda Serum Booster Drops being mixed into moisturiser for a personalised skincare routine.”Suggested placement: Beside or under this section. 🌼 Why Choose Weleda? For over a century, Weleda has been a pioneer in holistic, plant-based skincare, creating products that nurture both your skin and the planet. 🌿 What Makes Weleda Different: Weleda believes that beauty and wellbeing are deeply connected — and that the best skincare comes from harmony with nature. 🌿 Image suggestion:Image Alt Text: “Natural ingredients used in Weleda skincare – herbs, flowers, and botanicals.” 💚 Find Your Perfect Boost Your skin deserves care that’s as dynamic as you are. Whether you want to hydrate, brighten, calm, or firm, Weleda’s Serum Booster Drops let you customise your routine each day for the results you want. 👉 Discover your perfect combination now:Shop Weleda Serum Booster Drops 🌸 Let your skin glow naturally — with Weleda, every drop counts. 🖋️ Optional Internal Links (for Weleda Advisor blog) If you want to boost engagement and SEO further, you can link to:
Business Card Printing: My 3-Year Journey with the Magnum MCC35, Rhin-O-Tuff HD8370 and HD7700
By Mark Pammesberger/BROOLED LTD— three years owning all three machines, running a compact business-card printing setup alongside a Minolta Bizhub C450i with binder, puncher and folding add-on. Meta description: A practical, experience-led guide to using the Magnum MCC35 cutter and two Rhin-O-Tuff punch/bind machines (HD8370 & HD7700) for a small business-card printing shop. Troubleshooting, workflow, and practical tips after three years of ownership — with real photos of the setup. Introduction — why I bought these machines Three years ago I started a compact printing setup with the specific goal of producing high-quality business cards in-house. Space is tight and budget matters, so I chose equipment that fits my studio and my ambitions: a Minolta Bizhub C450i (with binder, puncher and folding add-on) as the production printer, and three finishing machines — the Magnum MCC35 cutter, and two Rhin-O-Tuff units, the HD8370 and HD7700. Compact print station: Minolta Bizhub C450i with Magnum MCC35 and two Rhin-O-Tuff finishers. The idea was simple: print on the Bizhub, cut/trim with the Magnum, and use the Rhin-O-Tuff for heavy-duty punch and bind jobs when needed. In practice, I learned that some machines are easier to integrate into a one-person workflow than others, that small missing parts can ground a machine for months, and that the right workflow saves hours. This post walks through what I’ve learned in three years. Quick summary of the three machines The Magnum MCC35 — my ongoing struggle (and a pragmatic workflow) Why I chose the MCC35 Space constraints drove the choice. The cutters I originally wanted were too large and expensive. The Magnum MCC35 promised compactness and reliability. Setting the backstop and blade depth on the Magnum MCC35. What I like What I don’t like Practical tips Registration marks guide precise trimming for business cards The Rhin-O-Tuff HD8370 & HD7700 — punching & binding made simple The missing handle story (HD8370) When the HD8370 arrived, it was missing a handle. Without it, I couldn’t apply the leverage needed for thicker stock. I’ve now ordered the part from a UK dealer. HD8370 before and after the replacement handle — small parts matter! Why I like Rhin-O-Tuff machines Punching test sheets on the Rhin-O-Tuff HD7700. Integrating everything with the Minolta Bizhub C450i Your print engine matters. The Minolta Bizhub C450i provides excellent print quality and integrates well with the bind and fold add-ons. Printing the business card sheets on the Minolta Bizhub C450i before trimming. Workflow: Print → Trim → Punch — the three-step finishing workflow. Troubleshooting Problem Fix Inconsistent cuts (MCC35) Sharpen blade, check backstop, use registration marks Thick stock won’t punch (HD7700) Reduce stack, use HD8370, check dies Colour shifts Calibrate Bizhub, test profiles Missing parts Order replacements immediately Design & production tips Final thoughts After three years, I’m confident handling small-to-medium card jobs. The Rhin-O-Tuff units will soon be fully operational, and while the MCC35 isn’t my dream cutter, it gets the job done with care and consistency. If you’re starting a compact business-card setup, choose:✅ Reliable printer✅ Practical cutter✅ Solid punch/binder✅ A methodical workflowFinished 350gsm business cards ready to ship. If you like to read more then I recommend About us page or the About Me where you find out more about me and what I do. There is also the Equipment page where I introduce the products and equipment I use Equipment I use. If you like what you read please subscribe to my blog, share it with your friends and comment on the post. I like to hear from you!
🎄 Visit Me at the Whitley Bay Christmas Market – Unique Handmade Gifts Await! 🎁
The festive season is here – and it’s the perfect time to find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones (or to treat yourself!). I’m excited to invite you to visit my stall at the Whitley Bay Big Local Christmas Market on: 🗓 November 29th, December 6th & 13th🕙 From 10 AM to 5 PM📍 Whitley Bay Big Local, 158 Whitley Road, NE26 2LY I’ll be showcasing a wide selection of handcrafted and personalised goodies – perfect for stocking fillers, Secret Santa gifts, and unique Christmas presents. 🎁 What You’ll Find at My Stall At Brooled, I create custom-made and design-led products including: Everything is designed with love and made to order – whether you’re into cute, sassy, motivational, or minimal vibes, there’s something for everyone. 💻 Can’t Make the Market? Shop Online! If you can’t make it in person, you can still grab your favourites (and order custom designs) from my website:👉 www.brooled.co.uk I offer delivery across the UK, and online shoppers can still personalise most items – making them extra special! 🎅 Why Support Local This Christmas? When you shop with small businesses like mine, you’re not just buying a product – you’re supporting creativity, passion, and real people in your community. Every sale makes a difference, and every piece you buy comes with a personal touch. 📍 More Markets Coming Soon! While you’ll find me at Whitley Bay Big Local on those three festive dates, I’m also open to joining other markets in the local area – so keep an eye on my socials and website for updates!
Brooled.co.uk Has Reached Its Second Milestone 🎉
It feels really good to be writing this update. Brooled.co.uk has officially reached its second milestone, and while there’s still plenty of work left to do, I can honestly say things are really starting to take shape.
How I Saved £1,080 a Year on Energy Bills
The cost of living in the UK has been climbing for years, and one of the biggest frustrations for households is the relentless rise in energy prices. Like many people, I’ve watched my gas and electricity bills creep higher and higher, despite using roughly the same amount of energy each year. For a long time, I was paying £250 per month to British Gas for my gas and electricity combined. That’s £3,000 a year—an eye-watering amount of money for a basic household necessity. But recently, an old friend came back into my life and helped me discover a better deal. By switching to Utility Warehouse, I’ve managed to cut my monthly bill down to £160, saving £90 every single month—over £1,000 a year. This is the story of how that happened, why it matters, and what you should know if you’re thinking about making the switch yourself. Reconnecting with an Old Friend I’ve known my friend Peter since the days when we were both part of the Jesus Army. Back then, we spent time volunteering at the Jesus Centre in Northampton, living in one of the community houses, and being part of a close-knit group. The church gave us a strong sense of belonging, and volunteering together built memories that have stayed with me. When the church eventually fell apart, Peter and I lost touch. Life took us in different directions, and we didn’t see each other for many years. Fast forward to today, and we reconnected. It was great to catch up and reminisce about our shared past. But what I didn’t expect was that Peter would also help me make one of the most practical financial decisions of my adult life. Peter now works with Utility Warehouse (UW), a company that offers bundled services such as energy, broadband, mobile, and insurance. When I mentioned in passing how high my energy bills had become, he suggested he could take a look and compare his company’s rates with what I was paying. The Shocking Price Difference When Peter came over and we pulled out my latest bill from British Gas, I nearly fell off my chair. My gas and electricity combined were costing me £250 a month. That’s an enormous amount for a single household, especially when my energy usage hasn’t really changed much over the years. Peter showed me what the same usage would cost under a Utility Warehouse plan—and the difference was staggering. Instead of £250, my monthly bill would be £160. That’s a direct saving of £90 every month. To put that into perspective: I didn’t need much convincing. Making the Switch One of my biggest concerns was whether switching would be complicated. The last time I changed energy suppliers years ago, it felt like a mountain of paperwork and endless phone calls. But with Utility Warehouse, the switch was smooth, quick, and stress-free. Peter handled most of the process, and within a short time my supply had transferred over. There was no interruption, no hassle, and no hidden surprises. It honestly felt like a no-brainer. Yes, Peter Earns from It—And That’s Okay Now, full transparency: Peter does earn income through Utility Warehouse. But here’s the thing—I’m saving £90 a month. To me, that’s what really matters. I don’t mind that Peter gets rewarded for helping me save money. In fact, I’d rather my friend benefits than a faceless comparison site. After all, he spent the time checking my bill, explaining the options, and guiding me through the process. It’s a win-win situation. The Utility Warehouse Cashback Card Alongside the energy deal, I also tried out the Utility Warehouse Cashback Card, sometimes called the Bonus Card. The idea is simple: you get cashback every time you shop, which then gets credited directly to your UW bill. So far, I’ve saved £3 off my bill just by shopping as normal. That essentially covered the monthly fee. But to be honest, I’m not sure if I’ll keep it long-term. Unless I shop regularly at UW’s partner stores, I probably won’t save much more than the card’s monthly cost. Still, for heavy shoppers or families who spend a lot in supermarkets, it could be a great way to knock a few extra pounds off the energy bill every single month. If you already use reward or cashback cards, this could slot neatly into your money-saving routine. Why Utility Warehouse Made Sense for Me Here are the main reasons why switching to Utility Warehouse worked in my favour: For me, the energy saving alone was worth it. Everything else feels like a bonus. How My Deal Compares to UK Averages At first, I wondered—was I just lucky to find a cheaper tariff, or was my British Gas bill really that high? To check, I looked into what the average UK household pays for gas and electricity. The UK Average Energy Bill So, households in the UK generally pay somewhere between £135 and £155 per month, depending on region and usage. My Costs Before and After The key point is this: switching to UW brought my bills much closer to what’s normal in the UK, instead of the inflated amount I was stuck with before. What Utility Warehouse Customers Typically Save It’s not just me who benefits: Tips If You’re Thinking About Switching Energy Suppliers If you’re currently frustrated with your gas and electricity costs, here are some practical tips based on my own experience: The Bigger Picture: Why Energy Savings Matter With the UK cost of living crisis still affecting families, saving money on essentials is more important than ever. Cutting £90 a month from my energy bills frees up money for food, transport, and other household costs. For many households, even a £20–30 saving makes a difference. In my case, it’s more than that, and it genuinely feels like a weight lifted off my shoulders. High bills don’t just drain your wallet—they also create constant low-level stress. Every time a new statement drops through the letterbox, there’s that sinking feeling of wondering how much worse it will get. By switching, I’ve taken control of that anxiety. It’s also worth remembering
Working Away from Home as an Industrial Electrician’s Mate: What You Need to Know
Working Away from Home as an Industrial Electrician’s Mate: What You Need to Know Working as an industrial electrician’s mate is a career that can open up doors to new opportunities, new locations, and varied experiences. But with this flexibility comes a major question: what happens when you need to work away from home? For many tradespeople, “working away” means taking contracts that require you to temporarily relocate, live in digs or hotels, and manage your finances around two sets of costs — your ongoing expenses at home and your day-to-day living expenses while on site. This article breaks down everything you need to know about working away from home as an electrician’s mate, from pay rates and job length to accommodation, food, transport, and budgeting tips. Why Industrial Electrician’s Mates Are Often Asked to Work Away Industrial projects often take place in specific locations — large factories, manufacturing plants, shipyards, or renewable energy sites such as wind farms. These projects can last weeks or even months, and companies frequently need extra pairs of hands to support fully qualified electricians. Because projects are often outside your local area, working away becomes part of the job. While this can be exciting, it also comes with financial and personal challenges. 1. Understanding the Job Opportunity Before diving into the financials, ask yourself: Sometimes, a short-term inconvenience of being away from home can pay off in the form of valuable industry experience. For example, working on a major power station shutdown or a large-scale industrial installation may give you exposure you wouldn’t get in local work. Tip: Always weigh the career value of the job as well as the financial value. 2. Pay Rates and What’s Included The most obvious factor is pay. Rates for industrial electrician’s mates can vary widely depending on the project, location, and whether it’s direct employment or agency work. Questions to ask before accepting a job: Many companies offer what’s called a “lodging allowance” or “subsistence payment”, which is meant to cover food and accommodation. However, not all employers provide this — which means you’ll need to work out if your wages cover your extra living costs. 3. Covering Your Ongoing Home Expenses Even while you’re away, your home bills don’t stop. This usually means you’ll need to budget for: It’s easy to get caught up in the higher pay rates of a working-away job and forget that you’re now effectively running two households: your home base and your temporary accommodation. Budgeting Example: This amount needs to be covered before you even start thinking about digs, food, or transport costs on site. 4. Accommodation (Digs) Options Accommodation can make or break your working-away experience. If digs are paid for by the company, this removes a massive financial burden. However, if they’re not, you need to research affordable options. Common accommodation choices: Tip: If you’re self-catering, you’ll save significantly compared to eating out daily. 5. Food and Daily Living Costs Eating out three times a day can quickly eat into your pay. Unless your company provides a food allowance, you’ll want to budget carefully. Average costs if self-funded: Cooking for yourself in shared digs can cut costs in half compared to daily pub meals or takeaways. 6. Transport to Site Since you don’t drive, transport is one of your biggest considerations. You’ll need to ask: Example cost breakdown: Over a month, that’s an additional £400 in transport costs if you rely on taxis. This can dramatically reduce your net earnings. 7. Job Length and Security Another important factor is how long the contract lasts. Some jobs are only for a week or two, while others may run for six months or more. A short job may not be worth relocating for once you factor in costs. On the other hand, a long-term contract gives more stability and allows you to spread out your accommodation and travel expenses. Questions to ask: 8. Balancing the Numbers At the end of the day, you need to know if the job is financially worthwhile. Example Calculation (Weekly): In this scenario, you’re barely breaking even. Unless the role offers exceptional experience, it may not be worth it. By contrast, if digs and transport are covered by the company: This is much more worthwhile financially. 9. Lifestyle Considerations It’s not just about money — there are personal factors too: Some people thrive on the change of scenery, while others find it isolating. Be honest about what suits you best. 10. Tips for Success When Working Away Final Thoughts Working away as an industrial electrician’s mate can be a rewarding way to gain experience and boost your earnings, but it comes with serious considerations. From home bills to digs, food, transport, and job length, every factor impacts whether the role is truly worthwhile.