In today’s highlighted video report - Nº 334 - we join the CNBC Make It channel and a very curious offering on a small city-street startup. Food is expensive to come by* in downtown New York City and affordable options are few and far between**. So what better than a pop-up pizza joint*** straight out of a car boot!

• To Come by (pv) - To get, find or obtain smth

• **Few and far between (ph) - Rare; not happening or found often

• ***Joint (n) - Informal word for a place, especially a restaurant or bar

Bradley Alvelo, 38, runs Pizza Pod, a mobile pizzeria he operates out of a Smart car in various locations in New York City. After being let go* from a corporate kitchen, he found himself financially backed into a corner**, with a young family and limited options. Rather than return to another corporate job, he decided to build something of his own and bring his career back from the brink***.

• *To be Let go (pv) - To lose one’s job

• **To Back into a corner (ph) - To leave sb with few options

• ***Back from the brink (ph) - To recover from a very difficult or dangerous situation

Alvelo put together the business using equipment he already had, including a pizza oven and generator. He now operates through pop-ups at breweries*, wine bars and coffee shops, keeping costs low without paying rent. With monthly revenue of around $12,000 his working life appears to be back on track** thanks to his entrepreneurial spirit.

• *Brewery (n) – Place where beer is made

• **Back on track (ph) - Returning to the right path or making progress again

Running Pizza Pod is demanding. Alvelo works virtually 24/7, handling everything from marketing and social media to food preparation. He does say, however, that the work is far more fulfilling* than his previous corporate career. Building the business from scratch** has given him greater independence and a renewed sense of purpose.

• *Fulfilling (adv) - Giving a sense of satisfaction or purpose

• **From scratch (ph) - Starting from the beginning without using anything prepared

So, sit back and imagine the fresh smell of fresh pizza and wish Alvelo the best of luck in his new adventure …

*Some AI has been used to develop this newsletter (especially definitions and examples). It still takes 3+ hours to produce the 3 weekly issues (hope it doesn’t spoil your reading) ….

Some key new adjectives from today’s video report:

VIDEO: CNBC Make It (8mins) - I Run A Pizzeria Out Of A Smart Car In NYC

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• Barrage (n) – Large amount of smth arriving quickly

• To Haggle (v) – To negotiate a price

• Tardiness (n) – Habit of being late

• Dough (food) (n) – Mixture used to make bread or pizza

• Offsite (adj) – Away from the main workplace

• Crappy (adj) – Very poor quality

• To Hook sb up (pv) – To provide sb with smth they need

• Resourceful (adj) – Good at finding practical solutions

• Brick-and-mortar (ph) – Operating from a physical location

• One-off (n) – Individual event that is not repeated

• To Prep (v) – To prepare smth

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from the last issue …

Word of the Day Answer:

Imminent (v) - Ready to take place; Happening soon

Examples:

“An imminent interest-rate cut could boost investment across the sector.”

“Management warned that an imminent cash-flow crisis could force major cost reductions.”

I trust you were able to make use of this latest edition of Business English Bits.

Have a stimulating Tuesday!

Kevin

It’s a long one today, but hopefully you will find the following report as interesting as I have. Our highlighted video report - Nº 333 - has been taken from Business Insider and looks at Uber’s move into profitability and some of the business models driving this trend.

The convenience of the Uber ride service is taken as a given. We have, however, seen fares rise quite dramatically since COVID and some customers are beginning to lose some trust with how prices are set for both customers and drivers.

Uber’s fares have changed dramatically since its early days when its pricing model was marketed as a cheaper alternative to taxis. Today, the model of ‘upfront* pricing’ uses algorithms and numerous data points to calculate fares, making prices far less predictable. In some cases, customers have noticed prices differing to those offered to others clients on similar routes.

• *Up-front (adj) - Given or paid before smth happens

The shift has also raised questions about how much riders pay versus how much drivers receive. Critics argue that algorithmic pricing allows Uber to tailor* fares to what individual customers may be willing to pay while finding the minimum amount drivers might accept. Uber flatly** denies using personal data to personalise prices, pointing instead to factors such as demand, location, operating costs and insurance.

• *To Tailor (v) - To adapt smth to suit a particular purpose or person

• **Flatly (adv) - Completely or directly, without qualification

Whatever the explanation, the change has had a major impact on Uber’s finances. Average fares in the US rose 83% between 2018 and 2022, while Uber reported its first annual profit in 2023. For riders and drivers, however, the bigger issue may be transparency. When an algorithm determines the price, the calculation remains hidden and it can feel like a black box, leaving both sides questioning whether the system is genuinely fair.

So, sit back and allow yourself to be whisked away* on another story connected to pricing dynamics ….

• *To Whisk away (pv) - To take smth/someone away quickly

*Some AI has been used in the development of this newsletter especially regarding the definitions and examples given. It still takes 3 hours to produce the 3 issues of Business English Bits - hope it doesn’t spoil your reading ….

Some key new verbs from today’s video report:

VIDEO: Business Insider (23mins) - How Uber Uses AI To Charge You More

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• Disclosure (n) – Information that is made known or revealed

• Bait and switch (ph) – Deceptive practice of advertising one offer and replacing it with a more expensive one

• Bargain (n) – Smth bought for less than its usual price

• Surge (n) – Sudden and significant increase

• To Outpace (v) – To grow or move faster than smth else

• To Sit well (ph) – To be acceptable or well received

• Backlash (n) – Strong negative reaction to smth

• Flawed (adj) – Containing mistakes or weaknesses

• To Dispute (v) – To question or disagree with smth

• Far cry from smth (ph) – Very different from smth

• To Squeeze (v) – To put pressure on or reduce the amount of smth

• Under your belt (ph) – Successfully achieved or experienced

• To Institute (v) – To introduce or establish smth officially

• Random (adj) – Chosen without a particular plan or reason

• To Crunch (v) – To process or analyse large amounts of data

• To Equate (v) – To consider two things as being equal

• Asymmetric (adj) – Unequal or unbalanced between two sides

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from the last issue …

Word of the Day Answer:

Acute (adj) - Present or experienced to a severe or intense degree

Examples:

“Rising interest rates have created an acute financing problem for small businesses seeking to expand.”

“The industry is experiencing an acute need for affordable, reliable energy as demand continues to rise.”

Answers to yesterday’s idiom test …

I hope you enjoyed this latest edition of Business English Bits.

Have a stimulating weekend!

Kevin

We’ll kick things off, as usual, with our Jumbled Quiz Challenge. Your task is to unscramble the letters and identify a key Business English term. You’ll find the solution, along with two authentic examples showing the term in context, at the end of the newsletter.

From there, we’ll turn our attention to six idioms featured in earlier editions. Each one comes with a concise explanation and practical examples to help you recognise not only what the expression means, but also how it is naturally used in a business setting.

Paid subscribers can then put their knowledge to the test with a gap-fill exercise designed to move these expressions from passive recognition into active vocabulary.

The answers will appear in tomorrow’s edition of Business English Bits, giving you the opportunity to check your responses, identify any weak spots, and see how much your command of these expressions is improving.

*As always, a small amount of AI has been used in preparing this newsletter, particularly when developing definitions and examples. That said, each set of three weekly issues still takes around three hours to put together. I hope the use of AI doesn’t detract from your reading experience.

Quiz: Rearrange the letters …

English Idioms in Business Settings Review - Slides 145 & 146

Rearrange the letters - Answer

Cutback (n) - Act of reducing smth, especially costs

Examples:

“Management announced a series of cost cutbacks after revenues fell short of expectations in the first quarter.”

“A cutback in marketing spending helped reduce costs, but it also led to a noticeable decline in new customer enquiries.”

Fill in the gaps using the idioms from above. Choose the best fit. Don’t forget that occasionally more than one may work is each space.

Read more

It’s always nice to be surprised by these reports as in many cases its possible to witness good business coming from creative thinking, epic service and hard grind*. Today’s highlighted video report - Nº 332 - is no different. The CNBC Make It channel brings us the story of ‘hiding’ a speakeasy* establishment behind a cold drinks cooler at a petrol station. Who would image that this idea could work?

• *Speakeasy (n) - Secret or discreet bar, especially one associated with the Prohibition era in the US

In 2024, Tony Donatell and partners decided to take over a failing petrol station and convenience store. Rather than simply keep running the existing business, they came up with something more distinctive*; a hidden cocktail bar. The Farmer’s Cellar opened in May 2025, creating a surprising location in an otherwise ordinary industrial park.

• *Distinctive (adj) - Clearly different or recognisable because of unique or unusual qualities

Donatell wanted the bar to feel authentically old, so he used antiques, repurposed* furniture and materials from salvage yards**, and refurbished*** booths**** from an old Irish bar. The hidden entrance makes the venue stand out, while its 1920s-inspired atmosphere gives customers an experience they are unlikely to find elsewhere.

• *To Repurpose (v) - To adapt smth so that it can be used for a different purpose

• **Salvage yard (cn) - Place where old, damaged, or discarded items and materials are collected, stored, and often sold for reuse

• ***To Refurbish (v) - To repair, renovate, or improve smth, especially a building or piece of furniture, so that it looks or works better

• ****Booth (n) - Enclosed or partly enclosed seating area in a restaurant, usually with a table and fixed benches

The transformation proved highly successful. Within its first month, The Farmer’s Cellar became profitable, and since then the wider business has generated almost $5 million in revenue per year. Its success has allowed Donatell to expand the venue, demonstrating how an off-the-beaten-path* location can become a bright spot** when a business offers customers something genuinely different.

• *Off-the-beaten-path (adj) - Away from popular or frequently visited places

• **Bright spot (cn) - Particularly positive or successful aspect of an otherwise difficult situation

So, sit back and relax in the stylish surroundings of the Farmer’s Cellar speakeasy …

*Some AI has been used in the development of this newsletter especially regarding the definitions and examples given. It still takes 3 hours to produce the 3 issues of Business English Bits - hope it doesn’t spoil your reading ….

Some key new adjectives from today’s video report:

VIDEO: CNBC Make It (7mins) - I Hid A Speakeasy In A Gas Station

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• To Stumble upon (pv) – To find or discover smth unexpectedly or by chance

• Roaring (adj) – Especially lively or prosperous

• Stained glass (cn) – Coloured pieces of glass joined together to form decorative designs

• Landlord (n) – Sb that owns property and rents it to others

• To Envision (v) – To imagine or form a clear idea of smth

• To Miss the mark (ph) – To fail to achieve the desired result

• Overflow (n) – Amount of people or things that cannot fit in the available space and therefore have to be accommodated elsewhere

• To Stand out (pv) – To be particularly noticeable or impressive compared with others

• Enthralled (adj) – Extremely interested or captivated by smth

• To Show off (pv) – To deliberately display smth you have or can do in order to impress other people

• Uplifting (adj) – Making you feel happier or emotionally positive

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from the last issue …

Word of the Day Answer:

Deduct (v) - Subtract or take away an amount from a total

Examples:

“Businesses can deduct certain expenses from their taxable income.”

“The bank deducted the transaction fee before transferring the funds.”

I trust you were able to make use of this latest edition of Business English Bits.

Have a productive Tuesday!

Kevin

Today’s highlighted video report - Nº 331 is from the CNBC Make It Channel and focuses on the specialised skill of make money from other people’s ‘junk’*.

• *Junk (n) - Rubbish, Garbage

Most of us have seen the TV reruns* of programmes such as ‘Storage Wars’ where contestants battle to gain access to the contents of garages and/or storage spaces. Normally the previous owners have failed to keep up with the bills or have left town allowing for a bidding war to take place to secure the belongings.

• *Rerun (n) - TV program shown again

The video report follows Michael Haskell, an 18-year-old entrepreneur who has turned the idea into a profitable side hustle*. He initially tested the waters** with a unit costing just $10, but the business soon gained traction***, eventually generating around $135,000 in gross revenue in 2025.

• *Side hustle (cn) - Small business or job alongside your main work

• **Test the waters (ph) - Try smth cautiously before making a bigger commitment

• ***Gain traction (ph) - Become successful, popular, or widely accepted

The key to his success is research. Before bidding, Haskell looks for clues about the previous owner, the location, and the potential value of the contents. He also uses AI to zero in on promising units and carefully sorts through everything before deciding what to sell.

Although some auctions turn out to be disappointing, the occasional discoveries can turn a tidy profit*. One particularly valuable unit belonged to art dealer Andrew Crispo, from which Haskell found a Man Ray painting and sketches by Walt Kuhn. Now, he is considering whether to branch out into* other ventures after college.

• *Turn a tidy profit (ph) - Make a reasonable amount of money

• **To Branch out into (pv) - To expand into a new area or activity

So, sit back and take heart in the fact that the next generation of entrepreneurs are just getting going.

*Some AI has been used in the development of this newsletter especially regarding the definitions and examples given. It still takes 3 hours to produce the 3 weekly issues of Business English Bits - hope it doesn’t spoil your reading ….

Some key new compound nouns from today’s video report:

VIDEO: CNBC Make It (9mins) - I'm A Teen That Buys Abandoned Storage Units — My Side Hustle Brings In $135,000/Year

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• Nitty-gritty (col cn/ph) – Practical and detailed aspects of a situation

• To Differentiate (v) – To make smth different from smth else

• Peer (n) – Sb of similar age, status, or position

• Gross revenue (cn) – Total income before expenses are deducted

• Cattle (n) – Farm animals raised for meat or milk

• Hooked (adj) – Very interested in or unable to stop doing smth

• Canister (n) – Container used to store smth

• To Ship (v) – To send goods to a customer or location

• EBIT (acc) – Earnings before interest and taxes

• To Pass away (pv) – To die

• Will (n) – Legal document stating how property is distributed after death

• Scrap yard (cn) – Place where old metal is collected and sold

• To Route through (pv) – To direct or process smth through a particular place

• Backstop (n) – Support or protection when other options fail

• To Broaden (v) – To expand the range or scope of smth

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from today’s issues …

Word of the Day Answer:

Assume (n) - To take of begin to have power or responsibility

Examples:

“Managers should never assume that customers will remain loyal without regularly improving the service.”

“Before launching the product, the team assumed demand would be strong, but sales fell well below expectations.”

Answers to yesterday’s idiom test …

Hope you enjoyed this latest edition of Business English Bits.

Have a nice end to the week!

Kevin

As always, we’ll start things off with our Jumbled Quiz Challenge! Unscramble the letters to uncover an important Business English term, with the answer and two authentic examples at the end of the newsletter.

Next, we’ll revisit six idioms from previous editions, with clear definitions and practical business examples. Paid subscribers can then test their knowledge with a gap-fill exercise designed to turn passive recognition into active use.

The answers will be published in tomorrow’s edition of Business English Bits, giving you a chance to check your work, learn from your mistakes, and track your progress.

*Some AI has been used to help develop this newsletter, particularly the definitions and examples. It still takes around three hours to produce each set of three weekly issues. I hope this doesn’t take away from your reading experience!

Quiz: Rearrange the letters …

English Idioms in Business Settings Review - Slides 143 & 144

Rearrange the letters - Answer

Ominous (adj) - Giving the worrying impression that smth bad is going to happen

Examples:

“The sudden drop in consumer spending is an ominous sign for retailers heading into the holiday season.”

“The CEO’s warning about potential layoffs sent an ominous message to employees across the business.”

Fill in the gaps using the idioms from above. Choose the best fit. Don’t forget that occasionally more than one may work is each space.

Read more

For today’s highlighted video report - Nº 330 we take a nostalgic look at neon lighting through an excellent piece from the WSJ. Neon lighting has been used by marketers in all industries to lure* clients into various types of establishments. This art can be particularly seen on cinema facades, as a variety of shapes and hues* combine to produce some truly memorable displays.

• *To Lure (v) - To attract

• **Hue (n) - Particular colour or shade

But as with many areas of modern life, times are a changing. LED displays are much cheaper and quicker to design and produce. Traditional neon lighting needs rare earth raw materials and craftsmanship* to remain relevant.

• *Craftsmanship (n) - Skill and quality involved in making smth

One type of green neon has already disappeared, and the future of this iconic ‘American’ art is uncertain. As experienced neon makers retire, fewer people are taking up* the trade and traditional skills risk dying out**.

• *To Take up (pv) - To start doing or learning something

• **To Die out (pv) - To gradually disappear or stop existing

To get ahead of the curve*, the industry needs to attract a new generation of skilled makers. Those who care about preserving the craft and have skin in the game**, because once these techniques are lost, they may be impossible to recover.

• *To Get ahead of the curve (ph) - To anticipate future developments

• **To Have skin in the game (ph) - To have a personal stake or something to lose

The story is ultimately about more than keeping old signs lit. It is about passing on knowledge, keeping alive a unique tradition, and making sure that a piece of American cultural heritage does not simply fade away*.

• *To Fade away (pv) - To gradually disappear or become less noticeable

So, sit back and take in some of the beautiful, iconic art on display from the world of marketing ….

*Some AI has been used in the development of this newsletter especially regarding the definitions and examples given. It still takes 3 hours to produce the 3 issues of Business English Bits - hope it doesn’t spoil your reading ….

Some key new verbs from today’s video report:

VIDEO: WSJ (9mins) - Why This Neon Colour Is Almost Impossible to Recreate

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• Awe (n) – Feeling of great admiration, respect, or wonder

• Striking (adj) – Very noticeable or impressive

• In a nutshell (ph) – In a very brief and simple way

• Coated (adj) – Covered with a layer of another substance

• To Drain (v) – To remove or use up the supply of smth

• Lumen (n) – Unit used to measure the amount of visible light produced by a source

• To Discontinue (v) – To stop producing, providing, or using smth

• To Diminish (v) – To become or make smth smaller, weaker, or less important

• Diligent (adj) – Careful and hardworking

• Eye shot (cn) – Distance within which something can be clearly seen

• To Degrade (v) – To make smth worse in quality or condition

• Bleak (adj) – Unpromising, depressing, or without much hope

• To Shudder (v) – To shake suddenly, usually because of fear, cold, or disgust

• To Bombard (v) – To overwhelm sb with a large amount of smth

• To Burn to a crisp (ph) – To burn smth completely

• Imprint (n) – Lasting effect, influence, or memory left by smth

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from the last two issues …

Word of the Day Answer:

Vague (adj) - Uncertain, indefinite, or unclear character of meaning

Examples:

“The proposal is too vague to justify such a significant investment.”

“Management gave vague assurances about future salary increases.”

Hope you could take advantage of this latest edition of Business English Bits.

Have a nice Tuesday!

Kevin

For today’s highlighted video report - Nº 329 - we join CNBC International and fascinating interview with the founder of HYROX - the sport for ‘gym-goers’. If you are connected to the world of sport, I’m sure you have come across the latest craze* of races that combine both running and fitness exercises.

• *Craze (n) - Short-lived period of intense popularity

Moritz Fürste, a former Olympic field hockey champion, co-founded HYROX in Hamburg. He was looking for new challenge after retiring from international sport. Alongside his partner, the idea was to create a new type of fitness competition with branded merch and cinematic events. Due to a lack of funds, he had to beg, borrow and steal from friends and family as well as approaching banks for additional financing.

As in many ventures, COVID-19 threw a spanner in the works*, putting the business under serious pressure. Fürste and his team had to quickly rethink strategy, and double down on unconventional ideas rather than fall back on* traditional approaches.

• *To Throw a spanner in the works (ph) - To cause an unexpected problem

• *To Fall back on (ph) - To rely on smth when other options are unavailable

The unconventional marketing work through COVID-19 quickly paid off. HYROX is forecasted to generate around $270 million in revenue in 2026, with over one hundred events across numerous countries. Fürste believes hybrid racing could even go on to become an Olympic sport, thus closing a circle on one of the highlights of his illustrious* sporting career.

• *Illustrious (adj) - Very successful, respected, and admired

So, sit back and marvel at what people are prepared to put themselves through whilst paying huge bucks for the privilege.

• *To Put yourself through smth (pv) - To experience or endure smth difficult or demanding

*Some AI has been used in the development of this newsletter especially regarding the definitions and examples given. It still takes 3 hours to produce the 3 issues of Business English Bits - hope it doesn’t spoil your reading ….

Some key new nouns from today’s video report:

VIDEO: CNBC International (13mins) - He Risked Everything on HYROX. Now It’s a Global Sport With 1 Million Annual Participants

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• Go all in (ph) – Commit completely to a course of action

• Intrinsic (adj) – Naturally belonging to or forming an essential part of smth

• Bid (n) – Offer to pay a particular amount for smth

• Insight (n) – Deep understanding of a situation, market, or problem

• Proof of concept (cn) – Evidence that an idea is practical and can work successfully

• Polished (adj) – Refined, professional, and well developed

• Bummer (col n) – Smth disappointing, annoying, or unfortunate

• Tipping point (cn) – Moment when a situation changes significantly

• Shutdown (n) – Temporary or permanent closure

• Rebound (n) – Recovery to a previous or stronger level after a decline

• Merch (n) – Informal term for products or merchandise

• Funnel (n) – Process for guiding potential customers through stages towards purchase

• Scarcity (n) – Situation in which smth is limited or difficult to obtain

• Nuts (col n) – Informal term for sb who is crazy or extremely enthusiastic about something

• To Pursue (v) – To actively try to achieve, develop, or obtain smth

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from today’s newsletter …

Word of the Day Answer:

Misshap (n) - Clumsy or badly judged move

Examples:

“The data breach was an unfortunate mishap that exposed sensitive customer information.”

“A minor logistical mishap delayed the shipment by two days.”

Answers to Yesterday’s idiom test …

I trust you managed to glean something from this issue of Business English Bits.

Have a lovely weekend!

Kevin

As always, we are going to kick things off with our Jumbled Quiz Challenge!

Unscramble the letters below to uncover an important Business English term. You’ll find the answer at the end of the newsletter, together with two authentic business examples showing how the word is used in real-world professional contexts.

Next, we’ll revisit six idioms from previous editions of Business English Bits. Each expression is explained in clear, accessible language and illustrated with practical business examples, so you can see how these phrases naturally fit into everyday workplace communication.

Finally, paid subscribers can put their knowledge to the test with a gap-fill exercise designed to turn passive recognition into active use. Whether you’re studying independently or using the material in the classroom, it’s a practical way to build confidence, strengthen fluency, and make these idioms part of your active vocabulary.

The answers will be published in tomorrow’s edition of Business English Bits, giving you a chance to check your work, learn from any mistakes, and keep track of your progress.

Quiz: Rearrange the letters …

English Idioms in Business Settings Review - Slides 141 & 142

Rearrange the letters - Answer

Flourish (v) - Developed rapidly and successfully

Examples:

“Local retailers have flourished since the new transport hub brought more customers into the area.”

“The fintech sector has flourished as demand for digital payment solutions has surged.”

Complete the sentences below by filling in the gaps with the idioms shown at the top of the slide. In some cases, more than one idiom may work, so choose the one that fits best.

Read more

For today’s highlighted video report - Nº 328 we have an update on a subject already covered in Business English Bits … that of plant-based ‘meat’.

To be honest I have never tried any of these products as I enjoy the traditional burger too much, but I am interested in how this sectors is evolves and where its future lies.

After successfully introducing meat alternatives into restaurant menus and shopping carts, company’s such as Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have seen a slowdown in sales post Covid pandemic.

This video report sets out some of the reasons behind this setback* and what the sector is doing to revive** its fortunes ….

• *Setback (n) - Problem or difficulty that delays progress in achieving a goal

• **To Revive (v) - To bring smth back to popularity after a period of decline

In 2019, plant-based meat appeared to be on the verge of* becoming a mainstream** food category. Investors poured money into the sector, while major fast-food chains introduced plant-based burgers across their menus. Celebrity endorsements*** added further momentum, creating the impression that the industry was about to take off.

• *On the verge of (ph) - Very close to experiencing or reaching smth, especially a major change

• **Mainstream (n) - Widely accepted, popular, or considered normal by most people

• ***Endorsement (n) - Public or official support for a product, brand, person, or idea

But the boom eventually ran out of steam*. Since the early 2020s, sales have cooled as consumers questioned the taste, nutritional value, and highly processed nature of many products. At the same time, high prices have made plant-based meat unaffordable for some, particularly as consumers have cut back on discretionary** spending amid broader inflation and rising food costs.

• *To Run out of steam (ph) - To lose energy or momentum and stop making progress as effectively as before

• **Discretionary (adj) - Not essential and based on personal choice or preference

The industry has also come up against resistance from the traditional meat sector, with industry groups pushing back through advertising campaigns and lobbying.

So why did plant-based meat lose its momentum and what would it take for manufacturers to bring down prices, win back consumers, and turn the tide*?

• *To Turn the tide (ph) - To change a situation from negative to positive or reverse the direction of events

So, sit back and ponder whether this food trend will find its feet once and again or disappear from view …

Some key new adjectives from today’s video report:

VIDEO: Business Insider (8mins) - Beyond & Impossible Burgers Were Everywhere — What Happened?

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• Breakout (adj) – Suddenly very successful, popular, or widely recognised

• Smear (n) – Unfair or damaging claim intended to harm sb’s reputation

• Meteoric (adj) – Extremely rapid and impressive

• To Mimic (v) – To copy the behaviour, style, or actions of sb/smth

• Prone (adj) – Likely to experience or be affected by smth

• In droves (ph) – In large numbers

• Mainstay (n) – Sb/smth that is essential to the success or stability of smth

• Culinary (adj) – Related to cooking, food, or the preparation of food

• Spike (n) – Sudden and significant increase in smth

• To Flood in (pv) – To arrive or enter in large numbers

• Fully-fledged (adj) – Fully developed or established

• To Disclose (v) – To reveal or make information known

• To Back down (pv) – To withdraw from a position or demand, especially after pressure or opposition

• To Recast (v) – To change or present smth in a different form or way

• To Undergo (v) – To experience or be subjected to a process or change

• To Muddle (v) – To confuse or make smth unclear or disorganised

• To Manifest (v) – To show or demonstrate something clearly

• To Falter (v) – To become weaker, less effective, or less confident

• Layoff (n) – Situation in which employees lose their jobs because their employer no longer needs them

• Bland (adj) – Lacking strong or distinctive qualities

• Benchmark (n) – Standard or reference point to measure performance or quality

• Bind (n) – Difficult situation in which it is hard to decide what to do

• To Riddle with (pv) – To fill or be full of smth undesirable or problematic

• To Catch on (pv) – To become popular, widely accepted, or understood

• Showdown (n) – Important confrontation or competition in which opposing sides compete to determine a winner

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from the last two issues …

Word of the Day Answer:

Patent (n) - Legal right to be the only person or company to make or sell a product

Examples:

“We filed a patent to protect our innovative battery technology from competitors.”

“Securing a patent gave us a valuable competitive advantage and attracted new investors.”

Hope you enjoyed this latest edition of Business English Bits.

Have a nice end to the week!

Kevin

For today’s highlighted video report - Nº 327 - we are with a gentle soothing* offering from Fortune Magazine Youtube channel on the positive change of fortunes of the Barnes & Noble bookshop chain in the US.

• *Soothing (adj) - Making someone feel calm, relaxed, or less stressed

A few years back I was lucky enough to visit and photograph the famous Daunt Books in Marylebone Street in London. A beautiful spot if you ever in the neighbourhood. Now the owner of Daunt Books, James Daunt has taken the reins* of a famous old US establishment called Barnes & Noble bookstores with the hope of turning the chain around.

• *To Take the reins (ph) - To take control or responsibility for smth

Over the last decade Barnes & Noble, alongside other brick-and-mortar booksellers, has felt the pinch* of Amazon’s dramatic rise as a bookseller and has struggled in some moments to stay relevant. As sales declined and competitors closed down stores, Barnes & Noble appeared to be heading for a slow and inevitable decline.

• *To Feel the pinch (ph) - To experience pressure due to rising costs or reduced income

Under CEO James Daunt, however, the company has been able to change tack* by doubling down on** the in-store experience and giving individual stores greater freedom to cater to*** local customers. Rather than simply falling back on**** its established model, Barnes & Noble set about***** reinventing itself as a more distinctive and appealing destination for book lovers.

• *To Change tack (ph) - To adopt a different approach or strategy in response to changing circumstances

• **To Double down (pv) - To increase commitment despite risks or difficulties

• ***To Cater to (pv) - To provide what sb/smth wants or needs

• ****To Fall back on (pv) - To rely on smth/sb when other options are unavailable

• *****To Set about (pv) - To begin doing smth, especially with determination or purpose

The strategy appears to have paid off*. Barnes & Noble has expanded to more than 700 stores across the US, demonstrating how a struggling retailer can fight its way back by adapting its strategy. Daunt’s approach shows that, even in an increasingly digital market, businesses can carve out** a successful niche by offering something online competitors cannot easily replicate.

• *To Pay off (pv) - To produce a positive result or benefit after time, effort, or investment

• **To Carve out (pv) - To create or establish a successful position or role through effort or determination

So, sit back and think about picking up a new novel over the hot summer (Spain) months ….

Some key new nouns from today’s video report:

VIDEO: Fortune Magazine (8mins) - Inside CEO James Daunt’s Plan To Save Barnes & Noble

Video Link

Key Words - (Smth = Something; Sb=Someone; Col=Colloquial)

• To Decimate (v) – To severely reduce or destroy a large part of smth

• To Pull off (pv) – To successfully achieve smth difficult

• Turnaround (n) – Significant improvement in firm’s performance

• Footprint (n) – Extent or presence of a company, brand, or activity

• To Curate (v) – To carefully select and organise products, content, or experiences

• To Weave your way (ph) – To move carefully through a complex environment

• Foot traffic (cn) – Number of people visiting a physical location or business

• Booming (adj) – Growing or developing very quickly and successfully

• Escapism (n) – Desire to avoid reality or everyday problems

• Playbook (n) – Set of strategies used to achieve a particular goal

• Assortment (n) – Variety or range of different products or items

• Each to their own (ph) – Having different preferences or opinions

• Finite (adj) – Limited in size, amount, or availability

Word of the Day … Guess the missing key word - Answer given below with examples!

Review of some new idioms & phrases from today’s video …

Word of the Day Answer:

Adept (adj) - Very skilled or proficient at smth

Examples:

“Companies that are adept at adapting to market changes tend to outperform their competitors.”

“The new manager is adept at negotiating complex contracts with international clients.”

Answers to yesterday’s idiom test …

Hope you gained something from this edition of Business English Bits.

Have a mighty fine week!

Kevin

Before we dive into this week’s idioms, it’s time for our Jumbled Quiz Challenge!

Unscramble the letters below to reveal an important Business English term. You’ll find the answer at the end of the newsletter, along with two authentic business examples that show how the word is used in real-world professional contexts.

Next, we’ll revisit six idioms from previous editions of Business English Bits. Each idiom is explained in clear, straightforward language and brought to life with practical business examples, helping you see how these expressions are used in everyday workplace communication.

Finally, paid subscribers can put their knowledge to the test with a gap-fill exercise designed to help move these expressions from passive recognition to active use. Whether you’re studying independently or using the material in the classroom, it’s a practical way to build confidence, improve fluency, and make these idioms part of your active vocabulary.

The answers will be published in tomorrow’s edition of Business English Bits, giving you the opportunity to check your work, learn from any mistakes, and track your progress.

Quiz: Rearrange the letters …

English Idioms in Business Settings Review - Slides 139 & 140

Rearrange the letters - Answer

Overtime (n) - Time worked in addition to normal working hours

Examples:

“We’ve had to work a lot of overtime this month to meet the increased demand from our clients.”

“The company has agreed to pay employees overtime for any hours worked beyond their normal working schedule.”

Complete the sentences below by filling in the gaps with the idioms shown at the top of the slide. In some cases, more than one idiom may work, so choose the one that fits best.

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For our highlighted video report - Nº 326 - we are back with the CNBC - Make It channel and an offering on the tasty product of jerky*. It’s always nice once in a while to return to this particular resource and witness some business success stories. Protein consumption has been hitting the headlines recentl…

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For our highlighted video report - Nº 325 - we are today joining the WSJ and investigating the amazing world of zips and zippers … Who knew that such a small complement could form a part of a mega worldwide business operation …

Read more

Before we explore this week’s idioms, it’s time for our Jumbled Quiz Challenge!

Unscramble the letters below to reveal an important Business English term. You’ll find the answer at the end of the newsletter, along with two authentic business examples showing how the word is used in real-world professional contexts.

After that, we’ll revisit six idioms from previous editions of Business English Bits. Each one is explained in clear, straightforward language and illustrated with practical business examples to help you understand how it’s used in everyday workplace communication.

Finally, paid subscribers can put their knowledge into practice with a gap-fill exercise designed to move these expressions from passive recognition to active use. Whether you’re studying independently or using the material in the classroom, it’s an effective way to build confidence and fluency.

The answers to the exercise will be published in tomorrow’s edition of Business English Bits, giving you the chance to check your work and monitor your progress.

Quiz: Rearrange the letters …

English Idioms in Business Settings Review - Slides 137 & 138

Rearrange the letters - Answer

Query (n) - A question, especially one requesting information

Examples:

“If you have any queries regarding the new expense policy, please contact the HR department before submitting your claim.”

“The client sent a query about the pricing structure, and our sales team responded within the hour.”

Complete the sentences below by filling in the gaps with the idioms shown at the top of the slide. In some cases, more than one idiom may work, so choose the one that fits best.

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For today’s highlighted video report - Nº 324 - we are using a resource from the Hustle which focuses on the business of lifts and escalators. Not too sexy, but when you take into account the maintenance of these installations, you can quickly see there are big bucks to be made.

From my own personal experi…

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For our highlighted video report - Nº 323 - we are today with the WSJ and look at the day in the life of a Disney theme park employee. As many of us we gear up* for our annual holiday break, I thought it might be a good idea to have a look behind the scenes* of one of America’s most famous family destinatio…

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Before we dive into this week’s idioms, it’s time for our Jumbled Quiz Question!

Unscramble the letters below to reveal an important Business English term. You’ll find the answer at the end of the newsletter, together with two authentic business examples that demonstrate how the word is used in real-world contexts.

Next, we’ll revisit six idioms featured in previous editions of Business English Bits and Bobs, breaking down their meanings with clear explanations and practical business examples.

Finally, paid subscribers can reinforce what they’ve learned with a gap-fill exercise designed to help turn passive vocabulary into active language—whether you’re studying on your own or using the material in the classroom.

The answers to the exercise will appear in tomorrow’s edition of Business English Bits and Bobs, giving you the opportunity to check your responses and track your progress.

Quiz: Rearrange the letters …

English Idioms in Business Settings Review - Slides 135 & 136

Rearrange the letters - Answer

Workload (n) - Amount of work to be done by sb/smth

Examples:

“The consulting firm hired three additional analysts to manage the growing workload.”

“Heavy workloads during the product launch forced several teams to work overtime.”

Complete the sentences below by filling in the gaps with the idioms shown at the top of the slide. In some cases, more than one idiom may work, so choose the one that fits best.

Read more

Congrats to Spain for bringing home the World Cup … As a Brit living for many decades in Madrid, my hat goes off to your team and their great control of complex matches …

For our highlighted video report - Nº 322 - we are with the Business Insider and our last look at the business around the football World Cu…

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For our highlighted video report - Nº 321 - Bloomberg delves into a phenomenon concerning young people and their risk taking behaviour.

The video looks at how younger investors are willing to take an increasingly bigger gamble* on assets** outside the realms*** of traditional wealth building. This change in a…

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