Latest news with #FSS
STV News
14 hours ago
- Health
- STV News
Scotland's childhood obesity 'rising' amid calls for tougher action on food
Health experts warn Scotland continues to suffer some of Europe's worst diet-related outcomes, with obesity and type 2 diabetes on the rise — particularly in deprived communities New figures reveal children in Scotland's poorest areas are more than twice as likely to be at risk of obesity Food Standards Scotland says government progress on diet and public health reform is welcome but far too slow The watchdog accuses policymakers of allowing commercial pressures to override health priorities Scotland is now in danger of missing its 2030 target to halve childhood obesity Scotland continues to face some of the 'poorest diet-related health outcomes' in Europe, according to health experts. Food Standards Scotland (FSS) says levels of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other non-communicable diseases are rising, particularly among those in the most deprived areas. Data from Public Health Scotland (PHS) shows that children living in the most deprived areas are now more than twice as likely to be at risk of obesity compared to those in the least deprived areas. FSS says recent commitments from the Scottish Government to improve public health by taking a preventative approach are welcome. However, progress has been described as 'too slow and not far-reaching enough' to meet the scale of the challenges faced. Heather Kelman, chair of the FSS Board, said: 'We welcome the direction of travel, but action must be stronger, faster, and better resourced. 'Public health cannot continue to take a back seat to commercial interests. Delays and compromises only serve to deepen existing health inequalities with a continuing increase in dietary related health costs.' FSS warns that the current restrictions on food promotions must go further if they are to be fully effective. Mrs Kelman continued: 'This should not be a choice between health or growth. When HFSS sales increase, the NHS and taxpayers pick up the bill. 'Of course we recognise that growth is important, but we need a system that prioritises public health over commercial interests.' FSS also noted that Scotland continues to lag behind other parts of the UK in implementing diet-related measures, calling for stronger collaboration with the UK Government to tackle issues. Mrs Kelman continued: 'Without urgent and coordinated action, Scotland risks missing its ambition to halve childhood obesity by 2030, and allowing diet-related illness to continue placing unsustainable pressure on the NHS. 'Clinical solutions can help, but are not a panacea, and preventing diet-related ill-health conditions is still a much better solution. 'We need a bold strategy to reshape the food environment. The intent is there. Now we need delivery, leadership, and the political will across all UK administrations to follow through.' The Scottish Government has been contacted for comment. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Federal Signal (FSS) is an Incredible Growth Stock: 3 Reasons Why
Investors seek growth stocks to capitalize on above-average growth in financials that help these securities grab the market's attention and produce exceptional returns. However, it isn't easy to find a great growth stock. In addition to volatility, these stocks carry above-average risk by their very nature. Also, one could end up losing from a stock whose growth story is actually over or nearing its end. However, the Zacks Growth Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which looks beyond the traditional growth attributes to analyze a company's real growth prospects, makes it pretty easy to find cutting-edge growth stocks. Federal Signal (FSS) is on the list of such stocks currently recommended by our proprietary system. In addition to a favorable Growth Score, it carries a top Zacks Rank. Research shows that stocks carrying the best growth features consistently beat the market. And returns are even better for stocks that possess the combination of a Growth Score of A or B and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy). While there are numerous reasons why the stock of this company that makes products ranging from street sweepers to toll booth technology for government, industrial and commercial customers is a great growth pick right now, we have highlighted three of the most important factors below: Earnings growth is arguably the most important factor, as stocks exhibiting exceptionally surging profit levels tend to attract the attention of most investors. And for growth investors, double-digit earnings growth is definitely preferable, and often an indication of strong prospects (and stock price gains) for the company under consideration. While the historical EPS growth rate for Federal Signal is 17.8%, investors should actually focus on the projected growth. The company's EPS is expected to grow 14.7% this year, crushing the industry average, which calls for EPS growth of 5.4%. While cash is the lifeblood of any business, higher-than-average cash flow growth is more important and beneficial for growth-oriented companies than for mature companies. That's because, growth in cash flow enables these companies to expand their businesses without depending on expensive outside funds. Right now, year-over-year cash flow growth for Federal Signal is 24.6%, which is higher than many of its peers. In fact, the rate compares to the industry average of -9.5%. While investors should actually consider the current cash flow growth, it's worth taking a look at the historical rate too for putting the current reading into proper perspective. The company's annualized cash flow growth rate has been 12.2% over the past 3-5 years versus the industry average of 4.6%. Beyond the metrics outlined above, investors should consider the trend in earnings estimate revisions. A positive trend is a plus here. Empirical research shows that there is a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements. There have been upward revisions in current-year earnings estimates for Federal Signal. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has surged 0.1% over the past month. Federal Signal has not only earned a Growth Score of B based on a number of factors, including the ones discussed above, but it also carries a Zacks Rank #2 because of the positive earnings estimate revisions. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. This combination indicates that Federal Signal is a potential outperformer and a solid choice for growth investors. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Federal Signal Corporation (FSS) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas Recognized with High Performer Status by the Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Tenth Consecutive Year
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, has been recognized by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with 'High Performer' status for its Housing Choice Voucher program for the tenth consecutive year. The 'High Performer' status is the highest rating from HUD to a public housing agency (PHA) for financial management, operations, and regulatory compliance. This designation ranks DHA among the top Housing Choice Voucher programs in the country. This designation ranks DHA among the top Housing Choice Voucher programs in the country. 'This represents the 10th consecutive year DHA has achieved this rating. It is no small feat to achieve this prestigious honor in any given year, let alone for a decade. I certainly can't think of another PHA our size and complexity that has achieved this level of consistency,' said Troy Broussard, president and chief executive officer of DHA. 'Increasing access to affordable, inclusive, and healthy housing opportunities for low-income families remains our top priority. Our dedication to the approximately 40,000 Housing Choice Voucher clients we serve and being good stewards of the federal funds we are entrusted with drives the level of care with which we administer this important program. We have a strong and committed team that upholds our culture of outstanding performance, and for that, I am thankful.' To achieve High Performer status, public housing authorities must score high marks on an annual performance assessment, which includes a review of 14 indicators that measure a public housing agency's effectiveness. HUD has three performance grades in the Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP): 'High Performers' (overall score of 90 %+) 'Standard' (60-89%) 'Troubled' (0-59%) The key indicators of performance are: Achieve proper selection of applicants from the housing choice voucher waiting list Execute sound determination of reasonable rent for each unit leased Institute payment standards within the required range of the HUD fair market rent Ensure accurate verification of family income Execute timely annual reexaminations of family income Generate correct calculation of the tenant's share of the rent and the housing assistance payment Perform maintenance of the current schedule of allowances for tenant utility costs Ensure units comply with the housing quality standards before families enter into leases and PHAs enter into housing assistance contracts Perform timely annual housing quality inspections Perform quality control inspections to ensure housing quality Ensure that landlords and tenants promptly correct housing quality deficiencies Ensure that all available housing choice vouchers are used Expand housing choice outside areas of poverty or minority concentration Enroll families in the family self-sufficiency (FSS) program as required and help FSS families achieve increases in employment income DHA is the tenth-largest PHA in the nation and provides affordable housing programs across seven counties across North Texas, including Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Kaufman, Rockwall, and Tarrant. It leads the fifth-largest Housing Choice Voucher program, which serves 40,000 people across 16,000 households, contributing more than $26 million per month in housing assistance payments to the region's economy. About DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas (formerly the Dallas Housing Authority) DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, provides quality, affordable housing to low-income families and individuals through the effective and efficient administration of housing assistance programs. The agency aims to create opportunities for program participants to achieve self-sufficiency and economic independence. DHA provides housing opportunities to ~55,700 people through public housing developments and Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs. DHA's mission is to provide affordable, quality housing and access to supportive resources across North Texas. The agency is governed by its Board of Commissioners and administers housing programs funded and regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. DHA is an independent, local government entity that is separate from the Dallas City Housing/Community Services department, which is governed by the City of Dallas. For more information about DHA, please visit
Scotsman
7 days ago
- Business
- Scotsman
The fraudster who sold fake Scottish tea to luxury firms, including Balmoral Hotel, in £550k swindle
Thomas Robinson has been jailed for three-and-a-half years over the swindle based on 'unique' Scottish tea. Sign up to the daily Crime UK newsletter. All the latest crime news and trials from across the UK. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... A fraudster who conned luxury businesses into buying tea he claimed was grown in Scotland, making more than £550,000, has been jailed for three-and-a-half years. Thomas Robinson, 55, claimed to have cultivated the tea at his Perthshire estate using innovative techniques, but in reality it was bought from wholesalers and grown outside of Scotland. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Tea being poured into a teapot. Picture: Getty Images | Getty Images Operating under the business name The Wee Tea Plantation, Robinson fraudulently sold the tea to high-profile clients in the hospitality sector between January 2014 and February 2019. Representatives of the Balmoral Hotel, the Dorchester Hotel and a company acting on behalf of Fortnum & Mason were among those tricked by the fraudster, who had claimed to have sold tea to customers including Kensington Palace. A Food Standards Scotland (FSS) investigation found Robinson also misled genuine Scottish tea growers by selling them plants under the false pretence they were a unique, locally-grown variety. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad On May 25, he was found guilty of two counts of fraud to a value of almost £553,000 after a trial at Falkirk Sheriff Court, which followed an investigation by FSS. Robinson, also known as Tam O'Braan and Thomas O'Brien, tried to bolster his credibility by fabricating academic qualifications and industry awards. On Wednesday, Robinson was sentenced at Stirling Sheriff Court. Hours earlier, his lawyer withdrew from the case. Robinson's defence Representing himself, Robinson begged for 'compassion' as he appeared by videolink from HMP Low Moss, wearing a green sweatshirt. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Sheriff Keith O'Mahony refused a bid to defer sentence and said it was in the public interest that it went ahead, as Robinson was 'articulate' enough to represent himself. Robinson, who told the court he has four children and attends church, claimed he awoke every morning in his cell plagued with guilt about the 'reputational damage' caused to genuine Scottish tea growers. An image of the alleged tea plantation. | COPFS 'I've had time to wrestle with this over sleepless nights, coming to realise how wrong and stupid I've been,' he told the court. 'The damage this has on all concerned, the stigma of misleading others … I should have been much more transparent and owned up to the situation. Hubris and arrogance made me believe I did my best. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'The method by which you could grow tea in Scotland, something I was told you couldn't do … I didn't know the best, I didn't act as I should have. I go to church, I'm perfectly aware that a sin is not only to do something, but also not to do the right thing. 'The shame of that hangs over me every morning every time I wake up in my cell. Central to that guilt I'm responsible for reputational damage of those involved and reputational damage of growing tea in Scotland. 'It was a scheme I received support from the Scottish Government. I solemnly hope my actions have not detracted from the success which can be achieved for people who want to grow tea in Scotland. I can only offer my sincere apologies if my actions have besmirched that capability.' 'Too ashamed to explain' He told the court he had experienced 'suicidal emotions' due to guilt and had been 'too ashamed to explain' to his four children. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Robinson claimed he would not reoffend and had learnt from his actions, 'not only from shock of my conviction but truthful acceptance of what I have done'. He added: 'I solemnly would ask that the above is taken into consideration not as an excuse but an acceptance of the serious nature of my actions and inactions, and I throw myself on the mercy of the court for your compassion.' 'He was persistent' Sheriff O'Mahony said the jury had 'generally rejected' Robinson's evidence, and the charges spanned five years and totalled £552,988. He added: 'By any measure these convictions must be regarded as significant. Mr O'Brien demonstrated significant planning, he was persistent, he repeatedly made false statements. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'These charges are not victimless, witness after witness gave evidence and said they would not have had the transaction if they had known. They were convinced on false pretences to hand over significant sums of money.' Robinson put his head in his hands as the three-and-a-half year sentence was handed down. Helen Nisbet, procurator fiscal for Tayside, Central and Fife, said: 'Individuals, businesses, and genuine Scottish tea growers suffered financial and reputational harm as a consequence of Robinson's deceit. 'But thanks to partnership working between Food Standards Scotland, Police Scotland and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, he has been brought to account for his crimes. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We are committed to tackling financial crime of this kind.' Ron McNaughton, of FSS, said: 'We welcome today's sentencing as a clear signal that food fraud is a serious crime with serious consequences. 'A three-and-a-half year custodial sentence reflects the scale and impact of Mr Robinson's deception. His actions caused real financial and reputational harm to individuals, businesses and a developing sector of genuine Scottish tea producers. 'This outcome is the result of a complex and painstaking investigation involving a dedicated team at FSS and the co-operation of partner agencies and key witnesses. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It demonstrates that those who set out to mislead consumers and defraud businesses will be held accountable.
Glasgow Times
25-06-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Fraudster who conned luxury brands into buying fake Scottish tea jailed
Thomas Robinson, 55, claimed to have cultivated the tea at his Perthshire estate using innovative techniques, but in reality it was bought from wholesalers and grown outside of Scotland. Operating under the business name The Wee Tea Plantation, Robinson fraudulently sold the tea to high-profile clients in the hospitality sector between January 2014 and February 2019. Representatives of the Balmoral Hotel, the Dorchester Hotel and a company acting on behalf of Fortnum & Mason were among those tricked by the fraudster, who had claimed to have sold tea to customers including Kensington Palace. A Food Standards Scotland (FSS) investigation found Robinson also misled genuine Scottish tea growers by selling them plants under the false pretence they were a unique, locally-grown variety. On May 25, he was found guilty of two counts of fraud to a value of almost £553,000 after a trial at Falkirk Sheriff Court, which followed an investigation by FSS. Robinson, also known as Tam O'Braan and Thomas O'Brien, tried to bolster his credibility by fabricating academic qualifications and industry awards. On Wednesday, Robinson was sentenced at Stirling Sheriff Court. Hours earlier, his lawyer withdrew from the case. Representing himself, Robinson begged for 'compassion' as he appeared by videolink from HMP Low Moss, wearing a green sweatshirt. Sheriff Keith O'Mahony refused a bid to defer sentence and said it was in the public interest that it went ahead, as Robinson was 'articulate' enough to represent himself. Tea plants growing on Thomas Robinson's estate (COPFS/PA) Robinson, who told the court he has four children and attends church, claimed he awoke every morning in his cell plagued with guilt about the 'reputational damage' caused to genuine Scottish tea growers. 'I've had time to wrestle with this over sleepless nights, coming to realise how wrong and stupid I've been,' he told the court. 'The damage this has on all concerned, the stigma of misleading others… I should have been much more transparent and owned up to the situation. Hubris and arrogance made me believe I did my best. 'The method by which you could grow tea in Scotland, something I was told you couldn't do… I didn't know the best, I didn't act as I should have. I go to church, I'm perfectly aware that a sin is not only to do something, but also not to do the right thing. 'The shame of that hangs over me every morning every time I wake up in my cell. Central to that guilt I'm responsible for reputational damage of those involved and reputational damage of growing tea in Scotland. 'It was a scheme I received support from the Scottish Government. I solemnly hope my actions have not detracted from the success which can be achieved for people who want to grow tea in Scotland. I can only offer my sincere apologies if my actions have besmirched that capability.' He told the court he had experienced 'suicidal emotions' due to guilt and had been 'too ashamed to explain' to his four children. Robinson claimed he would not reoffend and had learnt from his actions, 'not only from shock of my conviction but truthful acceptance of what I have done'. He added: 'I solemnly would ask that the above is taken into consideration not as an excuse but an acceptance of the serious nature of my actions and inactions, and I throw myself on the mercy of the court for your compassion.' Sheriff O'Mahony said the jury had 'generally rejected' Robinson's evidence, and the charges spanned five years and totalled £552,988. He added: 'By any measure these convictions must be regarded as significant. Mr O'Brien demonstrated significant planning, he was persistent, he repeatedly made false statements. 'These charges are not victimless, witness after witness gave evidence and said they would not have had the transaction if they had known. They were convinced on false pretences to hand over significant sums of money.' Robinson put his head in his hands as the three-and-a-half year sentence was handed down. Helen Nisbet, procurator fiscal for Tayside, Central and Fife, said: 'Individuals, businesses, and genuine Scottish tea growers suffered financial and reputational harm as a consequence of Robinson's deceit. 'But thanks to partnership working between Food Standards Scotland, Police Scotland and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, he has been brought to account for his crimes. 'We are committed to tackling financial crime of this kind.' Ron McNaughton, of FSS, said: 'We welcome today's sentencing as a clear signal that food fraud is a serious crime with serious consequences. 'A three-and-a-half year custodial sentence reflects the scale and impact of Mr Robinson's deception. His actions caused real financial and reputational harm to individuals, businesses and a developing sector of genuine Scottish tea producers. 'This outcome is the result of a complex and painstaking investigation involving a dedicated team at FSS and the co-operation of partner agencies and key witnesses. 'It demonstrates that those who set out to mislead consumers and defraud businesses will be held accountable. 'Food fraud undermines consumer trust and damages the integrity of Scotland's globally respected food and drink sector. We remain committed to detecting and disrupting criminal activity of this nature.'
