
Sir Alec Reed
30.12.2025 | 25 Min.
On Wake Up To Money, we talk a lot about jobs, wages and the labour market. And we often hear from the bosses of some of our biggest recruitment firms.One of those is the Reed Group.Sir Alec Reed started the company 65 years ago and made it into one of the UK's biggest private businesses. He was knighted for his services to business and charity in 2011.He'd long stepped down as Chief Executive of Reed by then, handing over the reins to his son, James, in 1997.Sean Farrington sat down with James to look back on the life of his Dad - and how they navigated being part of the same team at work as well as at home... something that will sound familiar to so many across the country.

Tension on the Chain
30.12.2025 | 25 Min.
The technology arm of Octopus Energy is worth billions of pounds in itself as the company raises new investment.It's crunch time for many suppliers in the Jaguar Land Rover supply chain, so says our guest -- we'll be hearing why the fallout from August's cyber attack is still putting pressure on businesses.the cinema chain Everyman's CEO has stepped down -Influencers are wearing once and sending back....will get the latest on the trends of christmas returns...

Last Orders
29.12.2025 | 52 Min.
It's been a tricky year for many hospitality businesses; Will Bain hears from a panel of pub and restaurant owners to look back - and forwards - on how they've been handling trade.In an exclusive interview, the boss of Puregym tells Wake Up to Money that pharmaceutical companies and health professionals need to be clearer on the need for exercise alongside weight-loss drugs.

Tax relief and Christmas peak
24.12.2025 | 51 Min.
We gauge reaction to the u-turn on the inheritance tax hike on farms & business assets. Will Bain also reflects on a massive year for Birmingham's bins - following ongoing strike action from refuse workers in the city. And as almost 13 million shoppers try to bag a last minute gift for their loved ones, we head to one shopping centre in Liverpool.

Defence delays
23.12.2025 | 52 Min.
Following a delay to the Defence Investment Plan, what does the lack of certainty mean? Will Bain also looks into the ongoing impact of botched insulation installed in peoples homes under a government scheme. And as we step into Christmas, it's a busy time for butchers.



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