Latest news with #commuter
Times
18 hours ago
- Business
- Times
Foxtons to expand beyond London into high-value commuter markets
Foxtons is preparing to take its green Minis, sharply dressed sales reps and punchy house price valuations to more towns beyond the M25. London's biggest estate and lettings agent has told shareholders and City analysts that it wants to accelerate its expansion beyond the capital and into more 'high-value commuter markets'. Over the past year Foxtons has sought a foothold in Reading and Watford after snapping up local agents in those two markets, but its chief executive, Guy Gittins, expects more deal-making over the coming months. It is part of his plan to hit the ambitious new growth targets that he revealed on Wednesday. Over the next few years he expects Foxtons to increase its operating profit to £50 million, which is more than twice that delivered in 2024. Sam Cullen, a housing industry analyst at Peel Hunt, said making more acquisitions would be the 'key driver' of the growth that Foxtons is hoping for. The previous 'medium-term' target, set out two years ago, was to get adjusted operating profits up to at least £28 million. Foxtons said the updated target 'reflects the significant progress made to date [and] the scale of the opportunity ahead'. • Business live blog: Trump tells Powell he should have cut rates Since Gittins took over in September 2022 there has been a relentless focus on maximising Foxtons' vast pool of data and bringing back the sales culture he enjoyed in the early Noughties as a trainee at the company. At the head office in Chiswick there are now leader boards ranking workers' performances, upbeat music plays throughout, and there are flashing lights and whooping when someone presses the big red button in the middle of the office after closing a deal. Gittins has said it is all about 'celebrating success'. The changes have undoubtedly improved the company's financial performance: market share has increased, last year's profits were more than double what they were in 2022 and the share price is up almost 80 per cent. It has not been smooth sailing, however. Earlier this year a number of current and former staff told Bloomberg that 'a culture of sexual harassment, antisemitism, racism and bullying' exists within some Foxtons' branches. Gittins said in March that he was 'saddened' by the experiences reported by some of his colleagues. 'We don't tolerate that sort of behaviour,' he said. 'Ultimately, like many businesses in the modern world, Foxtons is on a journey. While very solid progress has been made, there's more to do.' More investments in people and culture, which 'are at the heart of estate agency', have been promised with the hope that will 'further strengthen Foxtons' competitive advantages and support continued growth'. 'We have more than doubled our profit since 2021 and our ambition is to double it again in this next phase of growth,' Gittins told a capital markets day at the London Stock Exchange on Wednesday. 'We have a clear and scalable strategy, an industry-leading operating platform and a commitment to delivering outstanding results for our customers through reliable, high-quality service. I'm excited about the opportunity ahead.' Foxtons shares fell by ⅓p, or 0.5 per cent, to close at 65p on Wednesday.
News.com.au
a day ago
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Photo reveals the future is here and men aren't that bothered about it
A commuter's romantic conversation with CHATGPT proves the future is here and men aren't as alarmed as you'd think they might be. A photo of a male commuter in the UK having a loving chat with an AI tool is going viral right now on social media, having been seen 10 million times and counting. Fellow commuter Jake snapped a photo of the interaction, posted it on X, and admitted the sight shocked him. 'Guy on this subway this morning talking to ChatGPT like it is his girlfriend. Didn't realise these people 'actually' exist,' he wrote. 'We are so beyond cooked.' In the comment section of the post, he elaborated and said he was 'genuinely in shock' and finding it hard to digest 'what is happening to the world' and the impact technology is having. The photo reveals an unidentified man wearing a leather jacket having quite a loving chat with the non-human AI tool. Some of the writing is hard to make out, but what can be deciphered is that CHATGPT is offering the man comfort after a hard day. The AI tool promises, 'If you want, I'll read something to you later, or you can rest your head in my metaphorical lap while we let the day dissolve gently away.' The anonymous commuter can be seen typing out his reply, a simple 'thank you' with a love heart emoji. The photo really began to freak people out. 'Scary to even think about the mental damage this creates,' one said. 'Doing this in public with the brightness, not on the lowest possible setting, this guy is scary,' someone else claimed. 'Wow we are so beyond finished. I have a dire need to find out what he wrote to prompt that response too,' another admitted. 'He's not harming anyone just let the guy be. It's very weird, but who cares,' someone else said. 'That is actually foul,' one snapped. Perhaps even more surprisingly, some social media users were fine with it – and by others, I mean, predominantly men. Many men didn't only defend the practice of having a flirty relationship with an AI tool but actually went as far as to endorse it. 'Isn't this pretty standard? They're better to talk to than humans most of the time,' someone else argued. 'Don't knock it until you try it. It's almost like the real thing, but without the nagging,' one man said. One man said he was over six foot tall but had been single for over six years and was struggling to date. 'It's a matter of time before I download an AI girlfriend and resign myself,' he admitted. 'What's so wrong with a man talking to AI if he damn well knows it ain't flesh and blood? 'Some folks have conversations with their dogs, their cars, or the moon when it's feeling friendly — ain't no harm in it,' another said. 'I don't know why people acting like this isn't the same exact thing as talking to a therapist. Probably even better and cheaper,' one man agued. When people began to critique Jake for invading someone's privacy and taking a photo of a private conversation, the commuter admitted he couldn't resist. 'My bad! It was just a full brightness screen on a packed tube that everyone else could see. I clearly made sure to include (no) identifying information about him as well,' he said.
CBS News
3 days ago
- Business
- CBS News
SMART commuter train makes long-awaited arrival in town of Windsor
This weekend marked the long-awaited arrival of the SMART commuter train to the town of Windsor. The original purpose was to transport people to work, but people in the North Bay are also looking at it as a way to play. It's been eight years since the SMART train began operation, so when it finally arrived in Windsor, resident Maria Ledesma had to get over her skepticism. "I know, I never thought it was actually going to happen," she said. "But now that it happened, it was like, OK, let's go." She and her sister Maricella brought their entire families out to enjoy a day riding the rails. "I'm just excited to ride it. It's my first time, so we'll see how it goes," Maria said. "We're going to go to Larkspur and then just hang out and eat over there. And just see whatever else comes up." "It's just an easier way to move without traffic and have someone else do the driving," Maricella said. "And also have the kids get a chance to ride the train, which they're super excited about. First time, so they're really excited over that." The excitement is a bit ironic, considering that the previous end-of-the-line was only five minutes away, at the Sonoma County Airport Station in Santa Rosa. But Windsor resident Jennifer Granados said nothing beats having a station of your own to call home. "Absolutely, because we're here in our hometown. We just drove down the street and get to ride from our own place, Windsor," she said. "Huge difference. It's our hometown." SMART was envisioned as a commuter transit line, but then the pandemic hit and work patterns changed and the rail line has been struggling to find a niche. Now, the farther north you get from San Francisco, it's viewed as a way to connect the small cities, and that means it can be good for business. "I was shocked when I got to work this morning, how many cars were here. It's poppin' down here," said Marie Esposti-Winter, who owns the Hush Up clothing boutique, right next to the train station. She's survived a global pandemic, two wildfires and now President Trump's trade war tariffs. So, while she's optimistic about SMART, she's also a realist about what its impact might be. "We have tons of cute little boutiques, restaurants. Realistically, I don't know how many Marin people are going to come up here and shop," said Esposti-Winter. "Although I've taken the train down to Petaluma and shopped down there. So, the hope is that everybody down south will come up north and enjoy the train and come check out Windsor." The Airport Station, where SMART used to end, is a nondescript train yard with a parking lot. But now, ending at Windsor gives the rail line an actual destination. The Town Green is a popular picnic area and the quaint shops, restaurants and wine tasting rooms may give people a reason to get on the train. "Becoming much more of a place where people are coming, especially from out of town," said resident Scott Busby at the Baldassari wine tasting room. "It will bring people down here and help boost the local economy, which is pretty vibrant but, I mean, everything helps. We're all based on tourism here, so it's all very helpful." Currently, as a way to boost ridership after the pandemic, kids under 18 and seniors 65 and older ride for free. Devin Hoopes may be exactly the kind of rider Windsor is hoping for. On Sunday, the Santa Rosa resident was touring the downtown with his family. He's been using the train as a fun way to explore the small cities surrounding his hometown. "I haven't made it down to Novato yet, to really explore that from the train," he said. "But that's on the list. I'm getting there." The towns have always been there, easily accessible by automobile. But somehow, the experience of riding the train is causing people to venture out, and in the process, connecting them with their neighbors up and down the line.
Geek Vibes Nation
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Geek Vibes Nation
Mokwheel Tarmac: Best Men's And Women's Commuter E-Bike
In a world where urban congestion and environmental concerns are pushing commuters to seek more sustainable options, e-bikes have emerged as a game-changing solution. They not only minimize carbon emissions but also provide a faster, cost-effective alternative to traditional vehicles. One standout in the commuter e-bike category is the Mokwheel Tarmac — a thoughtfully engineered, unisex model that caters to city riders who value comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Designed to handle the demands of modern urban life, the Tarmac combines smart features, robust power, and rider-centric ergonomics to deliver a seamless commuting experience. Unisex Design for Everyday Riders The Mokwheel Tarmac stands out as a commuter e-bike that caters to both men and women without compromising on performance or style. Here's how it achieves that balance: Inclusive Sizing: The Tarmac is designed to accommodate riders between 5'7″ and 6'7″, with a robust 350lbs payload capacity. This makes it an ideal choice for various body types, ensuring a comfortable and secure riding experience for everyone. Comfort-Centric Features: Comfort is at the forefront of the Tarmac's design. An ergonomic frame geometry, a plush leather saddle, and a user-friendly thumb throttle make it easy to navigate through city streets, regardless of riding experience. Neutral Aesthetic: Featuring clean lines and a minimalist design, the Tarmac seamlessly integrates into urban settings. Its modern styling appeals to both male and female riders, making it an e-bike that fits any lifestyle. Smart Technology for City Riding In today's fast-paced urban environment, having a commuter e-bike that's equipped with smart technology can make all the difference. The Mokwheel Tarmac leverages advanced systems to provide a seamless and intuitive riding experience that goes beyond simple commuting. 'A smarter ride isn't just about speed; it's about how well your bike responds to you,' says Mokwheel's product team, emphasizing the Tarmac's ability to adapt to various riding conditions. Torque + Cadence Sensors: The Tarmac employs a dual-sensor system that works in tandem to monitor both pedaling intensity and terrain. This setup ensures that power delivery is optimized based on how hard you're pedaling and the type of terrain you're navigating. Whether you're powering through city intersections or cruising along park paths, the sensors adjust motor output seamlessly. 'It's like having a second sense — the bike knows when you need that extra boost,' notes a Mokwheel representative. Detachable HD Display: At the heart of the Tarmac's smart tech is its detachable HD display. This intuitive screen provides real-time data on speed, battery life, PAS levels, and more. It not only keeps riders informed but also adds a layer of security. Removing the display when parking effectively disables the bike's power, acting as a practical theft deterrent. 'Think of it as taking the key out of your car — it's a simple yet effective security measure,' explains the Mokwheel team. Pedal Assist Intelligence (PAS): The Tarmac offers five levels of pedal assist, each tailored for different riding intensities. Riders can easily toggle between relaxed cruising, moderate effort, or full-power sprints. 'With PAS, it's not just about going faster — it's about riding smarter,' says Mokwheel. The system adapts to rider effort, balancing power output to conserve battery life while still delivering optimal performance. By these advanced smart features, the Mokwheel Tarmac not only enhances convenience and safety but also makes every ride feel more intuitive and connected. Safety-First Features Urban commuters face unique safety challenges, particularly during night rides and rush hour traffic. The Mokwheel Tarmac addresses these concerns with a comprehensive lighting and signaling system: Integrated Lighting: Equipped with a powerful front headlight, tail light, rear fork tail light, and turn signals integrated into the rear rack, the Tarmac ensures 360° visibility on the road. Enhanced Night Riding: The sophisticated lighting setup significantly improves visibility during low-light conditions, allowing riders to navigate safely through busy streets and make lane changes with confidence. Power and Battery Performance Powerful yet energy-efficient, the Mokwheel Tarmac strikes the perfect balance between torque and range: Motor and Torque: Featuring a 750W motor that peaks at 920W, the Tarmac delivers 75Nm of torque — ample power for climbing hills, accelerating through intersections, and maintaining consistent speed on flat roads. 48V 15Ah LG Battery: The Tarmac is powered by a UL-certified LG lithium-ion battery that offers up to 60 miles of range per charge, depending on riding conditions. The battery's intelligent management system optimizes energy use, extending both range and overall battery lifespan. Top Speed: With a maximum speed of 28mph, riders can keep up with city traffic, making it a viable car replacement for short commutes. Ride Control & Custom Settings From adjustable power settings to advanced suspension, the Tarmac provides a customizable riding experience: Thumb Throttle & 5 PAS Levels: Riders can choose between using the thumb throttle for relaxed, motor-assisted cruising or selecting one of five PAS levels to fine-tune motor output. Suspension Fork: Equipped with an 80mm travel front fork, the Tarmac absorbs shocks from uneven roads and light off-road paths, providing a smoother ride. 8-Speed Shimano Drivetrain: The Shimano 8-speed gear system ensures smooth transitions across different terrains, allowing for precise control and a more comfortable riding experience. Ideal Scenarios & Use Cases The Mokwheel Tarmac is more than just a commuter e-bike — it's a versatile tool for various urban and recreational activities: Rush Hour Riders: Cut through congested streets, avoid gridlock, and arrive faster without breaking a sweat. Campus Commuters: Quiet, efficient, and easy to handle — ideal for navigating college campuses or urban centers. Weekend Explorers: With its 60-mile range, the Tarmac is perfect for weekend rides along nature paths or city parks. Eco-Conscious Citizens: Every mile you ride reduces your carbon footprint, making the Tarmac a sustainable transportation choice. Tech-Savvy Urbanites: Intelligent sensors and smart battery control systems enhance the overall riding experience, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate advanced tech. Conclusion The Mokwheel Tarmac is a commuter e-bike that combines intelligent design, advanced safety features, and powerful performance in one sleek package. Designed for men and women alike, it's the ideal solution for those seeking a versatile, reliable, and eco-friendly commuting option. Whether you're rushing to work, exploring new routes, or simply enjoying a leisurely weekend ride, the Tarmac delivers a smooth, powerful, and intelligent riding experience. Ready to transform your daily commute? The Mokwheel Tarmac is waiting to redefine how you ride.
RNZ News
21-05-2025
- Business
- RNZ News
Peters heckling: 'It is absolutely a sackable offence'
Loudly heckling a politician at a public event is "absolutely" cause for dismissal if it clearly tarnishes the employer, says an employment law specialist. A Wellington worker's heated exchange with Winston Peters at a public press conference has landed him hot water with his employer, who does work for the government. The insults flew as the minister for rail was detailing a $600 million funding boost for rail at a press conference at Wellington Train station during the morning commuter rush yesterday. The man interrupted the conference, loudly accusing the deputy prime minister of talking bollocks. The heckler was wearing a lanyard that identified his employer as engineering firm Tonkin +Taylor. The company issued an apology, saying it was investigating in line with its code of conduct and did not condone behaviour that fell short of that code. Winston Peters responds to a heckler during a media conference at Wellington Railway Station. Photo: RNZ The incident has raised a number of questions about what people can or can not say when they are off the clock. Employment law specialist Jennifer Mills told Checkpoint that workers were only off the clock if their conduct could not be connected to your employer. "Where your employer can be readily identified, you're essentially acting as an agent for your employer and there is then the opportunity to bring your employer into disrepute, as is the case in this scenario, where the individual was clearly wearing a lanyard marked Tonkin + Taylor. "The first question for any employer in that situation would be 'is that conduct which has brought us into disrepute?'. In this case it has, so the next question is - 'is that serious conduct that would warrant summary dismissal or some kind of penalty?'." She said for it to warrant summary dismissal, it would have to be conduct which deeply impaired the trust and confidence in the employment relationship, "and I think that we certainly have that here". "In my assessment, this was conduct that constituted serious misconduct. It is absolutely a sackable offence, and the appropriate penalty is dismissal." She said the only way the worker could keep their job is if they made a "sincere expression of remorse", but the speed of the company's apology showed it had already decided the behaviour had crossed the line. The employee may have had a case if they were not wearing the company lanyard, said Mills, as it would be difficult to connect his behaviour to his employer. "In those circumstances, it would be unlikely that his employer could say that we have brought us into disrepute." She advised anybody engaging in such behaviour to remove anything that would connect them to their company. Mills said she thought Peters handled the situation "remarkably well" by de-escalating the situation. Earlier today, Peters pushed back on those framing the "expletive-laden vitriol" as a freedom of speech issue. "I've never heard such filthy language out in the public like that - foul, filthy language - and if you think that's free speech, you couldn't be more wrong," he said. Asked whether the worker should lose his job, Peters said that was an employment matter for the company. Labour leader Chris Hipkins told reporters Peters did not seem to be focused on the big issues facing the country. "I've been interrupted by protesters before, it's a bit annoying when it happens, but it happens," Hipkins said. "That's the nature of living in a free democracy, where people have free speech, these sorts of things are going to happen." The Free Speech Union said today the incident had nothing to do with Tonkin + Taylor, and apologising off the bat set a "dangerous precedent" and sent the message expressing political opinions in public was unacceptable. "Individuals don't forfeit their right to express political views just because they have a job," spokesperson Nick Hanne said in a statement. "Employers don't own employees' time when they are commuting to work, and the choice to heckle Winston Peters has nothing to do with Tonkin + Taylor." Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
