‘V-Day’, UK rolls out vaccine as investors await Brexit talk outcome

FTSE 100 reacts coolly to the UK’s V-day with attention still firmly fixed on the outcome of the Brexit talks. London’s blue-chip index opened 8 lower at 6,546. “V-Day” or the start of a mass COVID-19 vaccination programme across the UK has begun.

The over-80s and some health workers will be the first to get the /BioNTech jab. November was the best month ever for grocery sales in the UK according to market research group Kantar. Some £10.9bn was spent or almost 14% more than a year ago with Morrisons seeing a 13.7% jump.

Plant hire giant Ashtead, meanwhile, says cash flowed in at record levels in the six months to October. Revenues eased slightly but by much less than expected said the FTSE 100 group. 

Among the small caps, EQTEC () is to acquire the Deeside Refuse Derived Fuel project in Wales for up to £6mln. The gasification technology specialist plans to convert non-recyclable waste otherwise going to landfill into energy.

Kromek () has been awarded two contract extensions by a European government-related company. The supplier of detection technology will provide network solutions to counter nuclear terrorism. 

Sativa Wellness () has expanded its COVID-19 testing service to the Goodbody Wellness store in Bristol after it proved successful in Bath. The firm provides testing for people not presenting symptoms who require negative tests for travel, work, or peace of mind.