Author

Dany

Technology

How Commercial Coffee Machines Are Being Reimagined for Hybrid Workplaces in 2025

by Dany

The way we work has changed, and so have the spaces we work in. Hybrid workplaces, where employees split their time between the office and home, are now the norm for many UK businesses. This shift has influenced everything from office layouts to the amenities companies provide. One area seeing a major transformation is workplace coffee. Businesses are now investing in professional-grade coffee machines that match the flexibility and quality expectations of modern teams. If you are considering an upgrade, you can Explore More about the latest commercial coffee solutions shaping this new era.

Coffee as a Workplace Essential

In the hybrid model, office days are often packed with meetings, collaboration sessions, and client interactions. Having reliable and high-quality coffee on-site has become a way to encourage employees to spend more time in the office. Office coffee brewing systems are no longer just about function. They are part of the workplace experience, helping to make office days more appealing.

Employees who are used to café-quality drinks at home expect the same when they come into work. Businesses are responding with machines that deliver consistency, variety, and speed.

Technology Meets Taste

The latest commercial machines are integrating smart technology to cater to different working patterns. From scheduling energy-saving modes for quieter periods to offering custom drink profiles, heavy-duty coffee equipment now adapts to how and when it is used.

Some systems include app connectivity, allowing staff to customise and order drinks without touching the machine. This supports hygiene as well as convenience.

Barista Quality Without the Barista

Not every workplace can have a dedicated coffee specialist, but that does not mean sacrificing quality. Barista-style coffee machines bring the expertise of a skilled barista into an easy-to-use format. With fresh bean grinding, automated milk texturing, and precise temperature control, these machines can create a cappuccino, latte, or espresso that rivals any café.

For hybrid offices, this means employees can enjoy high-quality coffee without leaving the building, saving time and maintaining productivity.

Flexible Solutions for Dynamic Spaces

Hybrid workplaces often have more open, flexible layouts with shared spaces that can adapt to different uses. This means workplace coffee solutions need to be equally adaptable. Compact countertop machines are ideal for smaller hubs or breakout areas, while high-capacity floor-standing units work well in central kitchen spaces that serve large groups.

Portability is also becoming a factor, with some models designed to be moved between spaces for events or seasonal layout changes.

Serving Peak and Quiet Times Efficiently

One of the challenges in a hybrid office is that footfall can vary dramatically from day to day. High-output coffee machines are built to cope with busy mornings when most staff are in, yet remain efficient during quieter periods. This balance reduces waste, saves energy, and ensures the machine remains cost-effective throughout the week.

Advanced systems also track usage patterns, helping facilities teams plan maintenance and restocking more effectively.

Why 2025 is the Year of Smarter Coffee Machines

As businesses continue to refine their hybrid models, amenities like quality coffee are becoming important tools for employee engagement and retention. Investing in the right machine is about more than drinks. It is about creating a workplace people enjoy coming back to.

Modern commercial coffee machines deliver on convenience, quality, and adaptability, making them perfectly suited to the evolving needs of hybrid work.

If you want your office to keep pace with the demands of today’s workforce, it may be time to consider a smarter, more flexible coffee setup.

Marketing

Grow Smarter with 23 Digital: Expert SEO, Social Media, and Google Ads Services for Australian Brands

by Dany

Introduction
Navigating today’s digital landscape requires more than just visibility — it demands strategic execution across all channels. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your search rankings, grow your brand through social media, or drive targeted traffic via paid advertising, 23 Digital offers the expertise to help you thrive online. As a trusted social media marketing agency, SEO expert, and Google Ads specialist, we deliver tailored strategies backed by performance and precision.

Strategic Social Media Marketing with Impact

Social media is no longer just about posting content — it’s about connecting meaningfully with your audience, building trust, and generating measurable engagement. As a full-service social media marketing agency, 23 Digital develops and manages strategic campaigns that cut through the clutter.

Our services include:

  • Platform-specific content planning and creation
  • Paid social campaigns across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube
  • Influencer collaboration and user-generated content strategy
  • Community management and analytics reporting

We help brands across Australia turn social media into a scalable revenue and engagement channel.

SEO Marketing That Ranks and Converts

Your online visibility starts with effective SEO marketing. At 23 Digital, we design SEO strategies that go beyond rankings — we focus on traffic quality, user intent, and conversion outcomes.

Our SEO solutions include:

  • Technical SEO audits and on-page enhancements
  • Keyword research aligned to commercial intent
  • High-quality backlink acquisition and content marketing
  • Conversion rate optimisation and user experience improvements

Whether you’re targeting local, national, or international markets, our SEO team crafts campaigns that align with your business goals.

Sydney-Based SEO Experts That Deliver Results

Looking to dominate search rankings in New South Wales? Our dedicated SEO Sydney team helps businesses stand out in highly competitive local markets. We optimise your site to rank for high-converting keywords, drive traffic from Sydney-based searches, and improve local listings for maximum visibility.

We understand the Sydney market and build SEO strategies tailored for long-term success in the region — from small businesses to enterprise brands.

Google Ads Agency Built for Performance

Need results fast? Our certified team at 23 Digital is a proven Google Ads agency delivering high-impact PPC campaigns tailored to your audience and objectives.

Our capabilities include:

  • Search, Display, YouTube, and Performance Max campaign management
  • Data-led keyword planning and negative keyword mapping
  • Smart bidding strategies and conversion tracking
  • Ongoing optimisation to reduce CPA and maximise ROI

We help brands turn ad spend into real, measurable growth — with complete transparency and dedicated campaign management.

Why Work with 23 Digital?

  • Integrated Approach: One agency, multiple solutions — SEO, social, PPC, and more
  • Australian-Based Team: Local experts who understand your market and speak your language
  • Proven Results: Thousands of businesses served with tangible performance improvements
  • Custom Strategies: No cookie-cutter templates — every plan is built around your goals

Let’s Take Your Digital Marketing to the Next Level
Whether you’re searching for a reliable social media marketing agency, a results-driven SEO marketing strategy, local expertise in SEO Sydney, or a performance-first Google Ads agency, 23 Digital is the growth partner your brand deserves.

Contact us today — and let’s drive your digital success.

General

Why Grown-Ups Still Love Fairytales (Yes, Even the Twisted Ones)

by Dany

Alright, let’s get something straight — just ‘cause we’re all grown up now, paying bills and chasing deadlines, doesn’t mean we’ve outgrown fairytales. Nope, not even close. In fact, some of us might be more into them now than we ever were as kids. The only difference? We like our tales a bit darker, more ironic… and occasionally with a cheeky twist (or even some real cash involved, but more on that later).

So, what’s up with this fairytale obsession?

Nostalgia Hits Different

Let’s be honest — life as an adult can be a bit of a grind. Therefore, it makes total sense that we cling onto things that remind us of simpler times. That bedtime story your mum read for the hundredth time? That old VHS tape of “Beauty and the Beast” you practically wore out? Yeah, those little nuggets are still kicking around somewhere deep in your head.

But nowadays, we don’t just want the sugar-coated stuff. We want fairytales with layers. Something with a bit of sass. Maybe a bit of fear. Something that knows happily-ever-afters don’t come easy.

The Dark Side of Fairytales — And Why We Love It

Modern retellings of classic tales have exploded in the last few years. From gritty TV shows like Once Upon a Time to edgy books that flip old stories upside down (The Bloody Chamber, anyone?), there’s clearly something appealing about giving our favourite fairytales a bit of bite.

After all, the originals were kinda creepy to begin with. The Brothers Grimm? They didn’t mess about. Feet got chopped off, wolves actually ate people, and evil queens were proper evil — not just sassy with bad eyebrows.

Though Disney made everything shiny and musical, today’s adult audience is more into the messy bits. We don’t want Prince Charming to just appear. We wanna know what kind of trauma he’s been through to make him emotionally available.

Fairytales Meet the Digital Age

Now here’s where things get interesting.

It’s not just books and Netflix shows giving fairytales a facelift. Gaming — especially online gaming — has found a way to bring those familiar stories back with a bang. And this time, you get to be part of the adventure.

One prime example is the Jack and the Beanstalk slot, which takes the old beanstalk tale we all know and turns it into a visual feast — with treasure, trolls, and walking wilds. It’s not your gran’s bedtime story, that’s for sure.
If you’re curious, you can try the Jack and the Beanstalk demo for free — no strings, no real money needed, just a fun little nostalgia trip with a modern twist.

And yeah, it might be a slot game, but it’s got a storyline, killer graphics, and that dopamine-hit of unlocking chests like you’re on some magical treasure hunt. Therefore, it’s not just about spinning reels — it’s about immersing yourself in a fairytale world… with a bit of risk, sure, but also loads of fun.

Escapism Is Not a Dirty Word

Let’s face it — we all need to check out for a bit now and then. Whether it’s through binge-watching a fantasy series, re-reading Cinderella with feminist commentary, or trying your luck in a gamified fairytale universe, escapism is necessary. It helps us cope, recharge, and reconnect with our imagination.

That being said, not all forms of escape are created equal. Some are chill and harmless. Others… not so much (lookin’ at you, doom-scrolling at 2am). The point is: choosing to dive into a fairytale world isn’t childish — it’s smart. It’s self-care. It’s reclaiming something that once brought us joy and reworking it into our adult lives.

Storytelling Is Forever

Even in this age of TikTok attention spans and AI-generated everything, stories still have power. They remind us of where we’ve come from, how we’ve changed, and what still makes us human. Whether it’s a folk tale from your culture or a modern mashup featuring fire-breathing CEOs, it all comes down to the same thing: we need stories.

So the next time someone rolls their eyes ‘cause you’re watching a twisted Snow White remake or spinning a beanstalk slot game, just shrug and own it. You’re not stuck in childhood — you’re just smart enough to bring the magic forward into your own version of adulthood.

General

How to Find the Right Holiday Rental in London Without the Hassle

by Dany

Planning a trip to London is always exciting. From iconic landmarks and rich history to vibrant food scenes and cultural events, the city offers something for every type of traveller. But before you start mapping out your itinerary, there’s one decision that can make or break your trip, choosing the right place to stay.

Finding the perfect holiday rental in London doesn’t have to be complicated. With so many options available, from chic studio flats to spacious family homes, knowing what to look for will save you time, reduce stress, and help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Step 1: Know Your Travel Style and Needs

Before browsing listings, take a moment to think about how you plan to experience London. Are you visiting for a romantic weekend, a family adventure, or a solo city break? Your travel style should guide the kind of accommodation you choose.

If you’re planning a short visit, weekend lets in London or compact flats in lively neighbourhoods may suit your schedule best. For longer stays or group travel, you may prefer furnished holiday flats with separate bedrooms, full kitchens, and additional space to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Knowing your non-negotiables, such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, or lift access, will help you narrow your search and avoid properties that don’t fit your needs.

Step 2: Choose the Right Location

London is a large and diverse city, so location matters just as much as the property itself. Staying in the right area can save you time and make your daily plans much more enjoyable.

If you want to be close to major sights, central London tourist stays in neighbourhoods like Covent Garden, Soho, or Southbank give you walking access to museums, theatres, and iconic landmarks. For a more local feel, consider areas like Notting Hill, Marylebone, or Camden, which blend culture with charm and character.

Your choice of location should reflect what you want from your trip. For shopping and entertainment, the West End is ideal. For quieter evenings and leafy parks, Kensington or Greenwich might suit you better.

Step 3: Look for Fully Equipped, Ready-to-Live-In Homes

When choosing a rental, prioritise properties that are move-in ready. The best London holiday apartments come fully furnished with practical amenities such as kitchens, washing machines, comfortable beds, and well-designed interiors.

If you’re travelling as a family, features like a dining area, sofa bed, or multiple bathrooms can make a big difference in comfort and convenience. For couples or solo travellers, a studio or one-bedroom flat with thoughtful layout and smart storage can feel just right.

Avoid listings that are vague or have outdated photos. A well-managed property will clearly list everything included and show recent, high-quality images of the space.

Step 4: Understand the Rental Terms

One of the most overlooked steps in booking a holiday rental is understanding the terms and conditions. Make sure you check:

  • The minimum and maximum stay duration
  • Check-in and check-out times
  • Cancellation policies
  • Deposit and payment details
  • House rules (e.g. smoking, pets, events)

These details will help you avoid surprises and allow for more flexibility if your plans change. Properties offering temporary vacation homes usually cater to short stays with guest-friendly policies, so always read the fine print before booking.

Step 5: Match Your Rental to Your Itinerary

If you’re coming to London to see the sights, attend a show, or enjoy the nightlife, your rental should complement your daily schedule. Look for London city break apartments near public transport lines or within walking distance of your main points of interest.

Having a comfortable base where you can recharge between adventures is essential. Whether you’re visiting Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, or shopping on Oxford Street, the last thing you want is a long commute back to your accommodation.

A centrally located, well-furnished apartment can help you make the most of every moment in the city.

Step 6: Book with a Trusted Platform

With so many booking platforms online, choosing one that specialises in high-quality, vetted properties will give you peace of mind. Look for platforms that offer customer support, flexible payment options, and transparent reviews.

Luxury and boutique listings often include short-term rentals in London that are professionally managed and offer better standards in cleanliness, service, and safety. This is especially important if you’re travelling with family, or if it’s your first time visiting the city.

A reliable provider can also assist with local recommendations, transportation advice, and special requests to enhance your stay.

Step 7: Compare Value, Not Just Price

While budget is always a consideration, don’t focus solely on the nightly rate. Think about value in terms of what’s included. Does the apartment offer more space than a hotel? Can you cook your own meals and save on dining out? Are you saving time by staying in a central location?

High-quality holiday homes to let often provide better comfort and flexibility than hotels, especially for mid-length stays. Consider what amenities, privacy, and location are worth to you when evaluating the cost.

Sometimes, paying slightly more upfront for the right rental saves you both time and money during your trip.

Step 8: Read Reviews and Ask Questions

Before confirming your booking, take the time to read guest reviews. Look for mentions of cleanliness, communication, noise levels, and accuracy of the listing.

If something is unclear or not listed, don’t hesitate to ask the host or agent. Good communication early on is a strong indicator of how your stay will go. Reputable hosts are always happy to clarify details and make sure their guests feel comfortable and confident in their choice.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right holiday rental in London doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear sense of your needs, a good location, and the right rental provider, you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable stay that enhances your time in the city.

Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a cultural getaway, or a family adventure, having the right place to stay can turn a good trip into a great one.

General

Transform Your Golf Experience with the GolfRide Golf Scooter

by Dany

If you’re an avid golfer, you know that a smooth, uninterrupted pace of play can make all the difference between an enjoyable round and a frustrating one. The traditional golf buggy can slow you down, requiring time to load, unload, and navigate the course, often interrupting your rhythm. Enter the GolfRide Golf Scooter — a revolution in personal golf transport that combines convenience, speed, and style to accelerate your round and enhance your enjoyment on the course.

Why Choose the GolfRide Golf Scooter?

Designed in Britain by golfers, for golfers, the GolfRide Golf Scooter is a single-rider electric scooter crafted specifically for the unique demands of the golf course. Its lightweight, foldable design lets you hop on and off with ease, allowing you to glide straight to your ball without delays. This innovative approach supports the modern concept of “ready golf,” encouraging players to move directly to their shots as soon as they are ready, thus speeding up play and reducing wait times.

GolfRide brings a fresh, fun dynamic to the game while addressing practical concerns such as turf preservation and environmental impact. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this golf scooter a must-have for players and clubs alike.

Key Benefits of the GolfRide Golf Scooter

  1. Faster, More Efficient Rounds
    Traditional golf carts and buggies can slow play significantly, especially when multiple players share a buggy. The GolfRide Golf Scooter gives every player their own ride, letting you cruise directly to your ball, select your club and take your shot without waiting. Over 18 holes, this can save an hour or more compared to traditional buggies, speeding up play for everyone on the course.
  2. Easy to Use and Master
    Despite being an electric vehicle, the GolfRide Golf Scooter is incredibly user-friendly. The controls are intuitive, with a simple learning curve that even first-time riders can quickly overcome. Its motorcycle-style throttle and brake allow smooth acceleration and handling, while a built-in LCD display keeps you informed of your speed, distance covered and battery life — all at a glance.
  3. Designed for Stability and Comfort
    The scooter’s design carefully balances weight distribution by mounting your golf bag on the steering column. This keeps the scooter stable across uneven lies and rolling terrain. The lightweight frame (weighing just 34 kg without your bag) means it’s easy to transport and store, unfolding in seconds to get you moving quickly.
  4. Course-Friendly and Eco-Conscious
    Unlike bulky two-person buggies, the GolfRide Golf Scooter is narrow and light, applying minimal pressure to turf and fairways. This helps clubs maintain healthier courses with fewer restrictions on powered vehicles. Furthermore, its electric motor produces zero emissions and runs silently, preserving the peaceful ambience that golf enthusiasts cherish.
  5. Versatile Beyond the Course
    The GolfRide isn’t just for golf. Its durable build and off-road capability make it perfect for commuting around large estates, resorts or even for casual local errands. With a range of accessories like phone holders and coolers available, it adapts seamlessly to your lifestyle.

Performance Highlights

The GolfRide Golf Scooter can reach speeds up to 12 mph (20 km/h), offering a swift ride between shots. It boasts a robust motor and low-pressure, turf-friendly tyres that safeguard your course. The battery life comfortably supports up to 36 holes on a single charge, typically recharging fully within 4 to 6 hours — making it ideal for back-to-back rounds or weekend play.

Effortless Ownership Experience

Ordering a GolfRide Golf Scooter is easy through their official online store, with delivery across the UK usually completed within a few working days. The scooter arrives mostly assembled, with clear setup instructions and an owner’s manual to help you get started quickly. A comprehensive 12-month warranty on key components ensures peace of mind, supported by helpful online resources and dedicated customer service.

Who Should Consider a GolfRide Golf Scooter?

  • Competitive golfers aim to improve their pace and focus during practice rounds.
  • Older players seeking to reduce fatigue without losing independence on the course.
  • Beginners who want to keep up with their group and enjoy the game more fully.
  • Golf clubs and course operators are looking to improve round times, reduce course wear and offer modern hire options to members.

Simply put, the GolfRide Golf Scooter offers something for everyone who values time efficiency, course care and fun on the fairways.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Consider this: at around £2,000, the GolfRide Golf Scooter is an investment that can save you over 100 hours a year if you play twice weekly and save an hour per round. That’s more time for shots, socialising and avoiding late finishes in fading light. Beyond time, the unique thrill of gliding smoothly along the course in a sleek, compact scooter adds a new level of enjoyment to every game.

Join the Future of Golf Mobility

The trend toward personal electric transport is growing rapidly across golf clubs worldwide. Courses that welcome scooters like GolfRide report faster rounds, happier players and additional revenue from rental fleets. For golfers, it means freedom to set your own pace, stay energised and enjoy every moment on the course.

Interested in making the switch? Discover full details on the GolfRide Golf Scooter, including pricing and available accessories, by visiting the official GolfRide website. Arrange a demo, propose the idea to your club or order your own scooter to become a pioneer of pace and style at your local course.

Business

Step-by-Step Guide to Editing PDFs in WPS Power

by Dany

Step-by-Step Guide to Editing PDFs in WPS Power: Tips and Tricks for Optimal Results Provide a detailed tutorial on how to effectively edit PDFs using WPS Power, including tips for formatting, adding annotations, and ensuring document integrity.

In this clause, we will guide you through the work on of creating a refined presentment using WPS Presentation, from selecting templates and adding to utilizing sophisticated design and animation tools. By the end of this guide, you ll have a solid state understanding of how to use WPS Presentation to create engaging, professional presentations.

Getting Started with WPS Presentation

When you first open WPS Presentation, you ll see a user-friendly user interface that mimics other pop presentment package. The toolbar offers easy access to features like inserting slides, editing text, and adding multimedia system . WPS Presentation also comes with a variety show of pre-designed templates, qualification it easy to get started apace.

To produce a new presentation, simply click File New and select from the range of templates available. Whether you need a strip, moderate design for a byplay presentation or a yeasty, vibrant template for a classroom talk, WPS Presentation offers a wide survival to suit your needs.

If you favor starting from excise, you can produce a blank presentment and manually correct the layout, downpla, and color scheme to fit your style.

Organizing and Structuring Your Presentation

A well-organized demonstration is key to holding your audience engaged. wps下载 Presentation allows you to add, reorder, and delete slides well. Use the Slide Sorter view to chop-chop see all of your slides and arrange them in a legitimate succession. This helps you maintain a smoothen flow throughout your presentment.

Start by adding a style slither to present your topic. Then, follow it with a clear docket or adumbrate slide down to give your audience an overview of what to . For each segment of your presentment, make new slides that are crisp and visually sympathetic. It s necessary to walk out a balance between text, visuals, and whiten quad to keep off irresistible your hearing.

WPS Presentation also supports Master Slides, which allow you to create a homogeneous look across all slides. You can customise your subdue slides to set the font, tinge intrigue, and layout, ensuring that each slither follows the same visual theme.

Adding and Customizing Text

Text is often the main way to pass selective information in presentations, but how you present that text matters. WPS Presentation provides a variety show of text formatting options to help your words stand out. You can correct font size, title, and distort, as well as apply bold, italics, or underline for emphasis.

Use text boxes to add extra comment, quotes, or notes to your slides. The bulleted list feature is particularly useful for summarizing key points, but think of that less is more keep off overcrowding slides with too much text.

One high-tech boast in WPS Presentation is the ability to correct the text box size automatically as you type, ensuring that text fits neatly within the selected space. This helps exert consistency in slither plan and keeps your presentment visually strip.

Using Images, Icons, and Shapes

Visual play a critical role in creating an attractive presentment. wps官网 Presentation makes it easy to add images, icons, and shapes to your slides. To add images, simply click on the Insert tab, take Picture, and pick out an visualize from your electronic computer or the web.

WPS Presentation offers a variety of shapes(such as arrows, rectangles, circles, and lines) that you can use to unionize your slides and emphasize specific points. You can set the colour, size, and rotation of each form for optimum position. Icons are another superior way to make your slides more visually newsworthy. WPS Presentation includes a program library of icons that you can tuck and tailor-make to fit the overall look of your demonstration.

For data-heavy presentations, consider using charts and graphs to submit statistics in a and visual personal manner. You can tuck pie charts, bar graphs, line graphs, and more, and WPS Presentation provides options to set colors, labels, and axis settings for each chart.

Animations and Transitions

One of the standout features of WPS Presentation is its invigoration and passage effects. Animations allow you to add movement to elements on a slide down, such as qualification text appear or disappear in an eye-catching way. This can help grab your hearing s aid and highlight key points.

To add animations, pick out the object or text you want to revive, tick on the Animations tab, and pick out from a variety of effects, such as fade, zoom, or fly-in. You can also set the speed and timing of each invigoration to see it matches the flow of your presentation.

Slide transitions are another probatory vista of creating a moral force demonstration. Transitions how one slither moves to the next. WPS Presentation offers a range of transitions, from simple fades to more dramatic personal effects like dissolves or wipes. Remember to use transitions meagrely, as too many gaudy personal effects can be distracting.

Collaborating and Sharing Your Presentation

Collaboration is often a key part of the presentation world process, and WPS Presentation makes it easy to work together with others. You can save your demonstration to WPS Cloud, allowing you and your team to get at and edit it from any device. This is particularly useful for aggroup projects, team meetings, or when workings remotely.

In addition to cloud quislingism, WPS Presentation supports real-time commenting, so collaborators can result feedback straight on the slides. This helps streamline communication and ensures that everyone s stimulus is incorporated.

Once your presentment is complete, WPS Presentation allows you to export it to a variety of formats, including PDF, PPTX, and more. You can also straight share your demonstration via netmail or cloud links, making it easy to distribute to others.

Conclusion

Technology

06 Best Contactless Card Machine for Restaurants

by Dany

If you run a restaurant in the UK, you already know this: customers expect fast, hassle-free payments.
And that’s exactly what a contactless card machine delivers.

But here’s the problem…
Not all card machines are created equal. Some are slow. Some come with hidden fees. Others just aren’t built for the restaurant hustle.

That’s why in this guide, you’ll learn:

  • What makes a great contactless card machine for restaurants
  • Key features to look for
  • The top options available in the UK right now
  • And how to pick the one that fits your business best

Let’s dive in.

Why Contactless Matters in the Restaurant World

Speed is everything in hospitality. Long queues, slow checkouts, and clunky card readers kill the vibe and cost you money.

They let your staff take payments right at the table, cut wait times, and offer a smoother customer experience.

In fact, over 90% of UK consumers now use contactless cards or mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
If your restaurant isn’t offering that option, you’re behind the curve.

What to Look For in a Restaurant Card Machine

Before we get to the best machines, let’s break down what you actually need.

1. Fast Processing Speed

A laggy machine frustrates both staff and customers.
Look for devices with instant tap recognition and quick receipts.

2. Portability

Can your staff carry it to tables? Is it wireless or Wi-Fi enabled?
Table service needs flexibility. Choose a portable or mobile PDQ machine.

3. Battery Life

In busy shifts, you don’t have time to recharge.
A solid battery life (at least 8–10 hours) is a must for portable devices.

4. Connectivity

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or SIM-based 4G your machine needs a strong, stable connection, especially in large or split-floor venues.

5. Fair Transaction Fees

Always check the fee structure. Some providers charge a fixed fee + percentage, while others offer monthly packages.

06 Best Contactless Card Machines for Restaurants (UK)

Now that you know what to look for, here are the top 6 PDQ machines trusted by UK restaurants:

1. Paymentsave Portable PDQ Machine

Ideal for small to mid-sized restaurants, the Paymentsave Portable PDQ Machine offers a reliable and cost-effective way to accept contactless and mobile payments. With free next-day settlement, long battery life, and 24/7 support, it’s designed for smooth table service and quick transactions without any setup cost.

2. Dojo Go Terminal

Known for its exceptional speed, the Dojo Go Terminal is perfect for busy or high-end restaurants. It comes with a built-in SIM for mobile connectivity, supports tipping and split payments, and offers a sleek touchscreen interface. This machine ensures a premium checkout experience that keeps service fast and customers satisfied.

3. Square Terminal

Square Terminal combines a point-of-sale system with a contactless card reader, making it a versatile solution for restaurants that want simplicity and functionality in one device. It processes chip, contactless, and mobile wallet payments with transparent pricing, and is a great fit for smaller restaurants and takeaway setups.

4. Zettle by PayPal

Zettle is a solid option for budget-focused restaurants, pop-ups, and cafés. With a flat transaction fee and low initial investment, it’s easy to get started. The machine connects seamlessly to tablet-based POS systems and offers a clean interface that’s both easy to use and quick to train staff on during busy shifts.

5. SumUp Air

SumUp Air is a compact, easy-to-use contactless card reader designed for small restaurants and cafés. It connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet, making it ideal for mobile setups or tight counter spaces. With no monthly fees and simple pay-as-you-go pricing, it’s a popular choice for new or seasonal food businesses.

6. Clover Flex

Clover Flex is a powerful handheld card machine tailored for restaurants that need flexibility on the floor. It supports all contactless payments, manages orders, prints receipts, and even processes refunds directly from the device. This all-in-one solution is perfect for restaurants with table service and dynamic staff workflows.

Conclusion: 

Choosing the right contactless card machine can transform how your restaurant handles payments. From speed and portability to fair fees and smart features, the right device makes all the difference. Whether you’re running a busy bistro or a high-end venue, there’s a perfect option to match your service style and boost customer satisfaction.

Technology

How Influencer-Led UGC is Transforming Social Media Management in 2025

by Dany

In 2025, brands aren’t just paying influencers to pose with products. They’re partnering with them to co-create powerful, authentic content that drives results. At the heart of this evolution is user-generated content (UGC), and it’s completely changing the way social media is managed.

The Rise of Influencer-Led UGC

User-generated content isn’t new – but the way it’s being used is. UGC used to be spontaneous posts from happy customers. Today, brands are deliberately working with influencers to create content that feels organic, while meeting strategic goals.

Influencer-led UGC combines the reach and trust of influencers with the authenticity of user content. It’s cost-effective, converts better, and offers endless versatility across social platforms.

According to recent studies, UGC is 6x more engaging than branded content, and 93% of marketers say consumers trust content created by real people over content created by brands.

How Social Media Management is Evolving

The old model of social media management focused heavily on scheduled posts and polished brand assets. That’s still relevant – but today’s successful strategies are agile, creator-focused, and data-driven.

Here’s what modern social media management looks like:

  • Strategy: Influencer selection, audience targeting, and platform-specific goals
  • Creation: UGC-style photos, Reels, TikToks, carousels, and behind-the-scenes content
  • Collaboration: Influencers co-own content creation, making campaigns more dynamic
  • Distribution: Posting across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and more
  • Analysis: Real-time performance tracking to adapt campaigns fast

UK Based UGC: The Velena Lifestyle Approach

Velena Lifestyle, we specialises in helping brands grow through influencer-led UGC and strategic social media management.

Having worked with over 100 brands, delivering content that resonates, converts, and scales, whether it’s daily storytelling, campaign strategy, or video content for product launches, our approach blends creativity with commercial impact.

Tips for Brands Embracing UGC in 2025

Ready to transform your marketing with UGC? Here are five essential tips:

  1. Find Creators Who Match Your Audience: Don’t just look at follower counts – focus on engagement and audience fit.
  2. Prioritise Video: Short-form videos (like Reels and TikToks) dominate in 2025.
  3. Invest in Long-Term Partnerships: Influencers who know your brand create better content.
  4. Blend Organic and Paid: Use UGC in paid campaigns to maximise ROI.
  5. Track, Learn, Optimise: Don’t just post and forget – use analytics to refine your strategy.

Final Thoughts

Influencer-led UGC isn’t just a trend – it’s the future of marketing. It creates deeper connections, drives trust, and scales your content production in a way traditional media never could.

If your brand is ready to grow with powerful content and strategic social media support, discover how Velena Lifestyle can help.

Velena Lifestyle is a UK-based agency helping brands and creators thrive online through influencer campaigns, UGC creation, and full-service social media management.

General

5 Incredible Hospitality TVs That Stand Out from the Crowd

by Dany

The in-room screen has become the digital concierge, cinema and control panel of modern hospitality. Hoteliers now expect more than just pretty pictures; they need secure casting, property-wide management, privacy-by-design and an aesthetic that complements the décor. With that in mind, here are five of the stand-out hospitality TVs you can buy right now, and why they matter.

Samsung – The Frame HL03F & 2025 Hotel TV line-up
Samsung’s 2025 range brings its lifestyle darling, The Frame, into hotel guest rooms. Guests get a 4K QLED panel with the matte anti-reflection finish and Art Mode, letting properties display curated artworks or branded imagery when the set is idle. Behind the design flourish sit very practical upgrades: dual casting (Apple AirPlay and the newly added Google Cast), SmartThings Pro for room-wide IoT control, and LYNK Cloud for remote fleet management, targeted promotions and e-commerce. Because casting works via one-time QR pairing, no personal data is retained after check-out, saving the IT team privacy headaches. It’s a rare blend of wow-factor and operational sense.

LG – webOS 23 Google Cast Hotel TVs
Announced at ISE 2025, LG’s latest Pro:Centric displays are the first hotel sets to offer both integrated AirPlay and Google Cast. Guests simply scan an on-screen QR code and stream from Android or iOS devices with network isolation safeguarding nearby rooms. webOS 23 keeps the interface familiar while Pro:Centric lets staff push personalized welcome pages, upsell spa slots or tweak channel line-ups room-by-room from a browser. The casting session persists for the entire stay and wipes automatically at check-out, recreating a “living-room experience” without the usual sign-in friction. If you already run LG hospitality TV sets, the upside is minimal retraining and seamless backward compatibility with existing Pro:Centric templates.

Philips – MediaSuite with Netflix-Ready & Canal+ Room Streaming
PPDS keeps refining MediaSuite, whose claim to fame is being “Google TV inside” with built-in Chromecast and Play Store access. In February 2025 the series gained an exclusive partnership with CANAL+ Room Streaming, adding 90,000 on-demand titles and live sport without external boxes. Couple that with the long-standing Netflix-Ready certification (again no dongles, no guest login retained) and you have arguably the richest app catalogue in the sector. For operators, Philips’ CMND platform handles remote updates, energy reports and template-driven welcome screens, while open APIs make it easy to bolt on PMS or door-lock data feeds. If content breadth is the priority, MediaSuite still sets the pace.

Sony – BRAVIA BZ40L Series
Sony positions the BZ40L more as a professional display than a “hotel TV”, yet its spec sheet ticks every hospitality box. The panel hits 700 nits and uses Deep Black Non-Glare coating, so picture quality remains punchy in brightly lit lobbies or south-facing rooms. The X1 processor and TRILUMINOS Pro color engine handle native 4K HDR as well as upscaling, while Pro Settings Mode lets integrators lock down inputs, copy settings via USB and schedule on/off times – all critical for preventing tampering and saving energy. With 32 GB internal storage, HTML5 signage playback and 24/7 certification, the BZ40L doubles as an in-house advertising channel outside the gues troom.

Hisense – E-Series 4K Hospitality Displays
For budget-minded properties, Hisense’s Android-based E-Series offers solid fundamentals: 4K IPS panels from 32- to 86-inches, 500-nit brightness, landscape or portrait mounting and an 18/7 duty cycle. VisionInfo CMS is included for playlist creation, status monitoring and real-time control, meaning smaller hotels can skip a third-party content system entirely. Wide-angle viewing makes it practical for bars or communal areas, and the bezel remains slim enough for contemporary interiors. While it lacks the deep casting integration of the tier-one brands, it’s a cost-effective canvas for digital signage, live TV and basic OTT apps.

Choosing the right screen
If your priority is upscale design and premium branding, Samsung’s Frame is un-rivalled. Need seamless, device-agnostic casting? LG and Philips now both deliver, with Philips edging ahead on native app breadth. Sony excels where glare control and 24/7 reliability matter, while Hisense wins on price-performance for signage-heavy spaces. Whatever you choose, the common thread in 2025 is frictionless casting, cloud management and a laser focus on guest privacy – the new minimum standard for hospitality TV.

General

Discover the Beauty of the Aegean: Your Ultimate Guide to Greece Boat Rental

by Dany

When it comes to unforgettable travel experiences, few things compare to sailing through the turquoise waters of the Aegean or the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time adventurer, Greece boat rental offers a unique and flexible way to explore the country’s thousands of stunning islands and pristine coastlines.

Why Choose a Boat Rental in Greece?

Greece is a boater’s paradise, offering a stunning blend of beautiful coastlines, clear blue waters, and enchanting islands. With over 6,000 islands, only about 200 of which are inhabited, the possibilities for exploration are endless. Renting a boat gives you the chance to access secluded beaches, hidden coves, and charming ports that are often unreachable by other means of transport. Whether you want to spend your days exploring one island or hop between several, a boat rental gives you the ultimate freedom to travel at your own pace, away from crowded tourist spots and rigid schedules.

Types of Boats Available for Rent

When considering Greece boat rental, it’s essential to choose a boat type that matches your needs and sailing experience. If you’re looking for a more traditional sailing experience, sailboats are a popular option, offering a serene way to enjoy the sea and coastline. They are perfect for couples, families, or small groups. For larger groups or those seeking extra space and stability, catamarans are ideal. Known for their spacious decks and comfortable interiors, catamarans provide plenty of room to relax and enjoy the scenery. For those looking for speed and luxury, motor yachts are a fantastic option. With motor yachts, you can cover more distance in less time, all while enjoying modern amenities and comfort. Lastly, depending on your experience and preferences, you can choose between bareboat rentals if you have a valid sailing license or skippered rentals if you’d prefer to leave the navigation to a local expert.

Best Regions for a Boat Trip in Greece

Greece offers many breathtaking regions that are perfect for boat trips. The Cyclades is one of the most popular groups of islands, including iconic destinations like Mykonos and Santorini. These islands are famous for their whitewashed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, for those seeking quieter, less-touristy spots, islands like Folegandros offer unspoiled beauty. The Ionian Islands, known for their calm waters and lush greenery, are perfect for beginners or those who prefer a relaxed sailing experience. Islands like Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos offer a rich mix of history, nature, and tranquility. Another wonderful destination is the Dodecanese islands, where you can experience a blend of Greek and Turkish cultures along with stunning coastlines. For a quick and accessible trip from Athens, the Saronic Gulf is perfect, with islands like Hydra and Poros offering beautiful scenery and easy access.

Important Considerations Before Renting a Boat

Before embarking on your boating adventure in Greece, there are a few things to keep in mind. Licensing is one of the primary considerations—if you wish to rent a bareboat, you’ll need to hold a valid sailing license. If you don’t have one, no need to worry, as you can opt for a skippered boat rental, where a professional sailor will handle all the navigation. Another crucial factor is the weather, particularly in summer when the winds can be quite strong. It’s essential to check local weather forecasts before setting out, especially if you’re planning a longer trip or heading to islands known for their strong winds. Lastly, it’s highly recommended to book your boat in advance, especially during the peak travel season between June and August. Early booking will help ensure you secure the best boat and avoid the disappointment of limited availability.

Conclusion: Why Greece Boat Rental is the Perfect Choice

If you’re looking for a memorable, flexible, and adventurous way to explore the Mediterranean, Greece boat rental offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It allows you to visit a variety of stunning islands, enjoy intimate moments away from the crowds, and create your own itinerary. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or an adventure with friends, renting a boat in Greece is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Greek coastline and islands at your own pace. The freedom, privacy, and unforgettable scenery will make your Greek holiday truly special.

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