The UK’s brewery scene is shrinking after a wave of closures, adding another warning sign for independent brewers, pubs, taprooms and small hospitality suppliers. BBC analysis of Companies House data reported that 320 beer-brewing businesses…
More than a million people in the UK now have second jobs, according to BBC reporting on the rise of the multi-job workforce. For small employers, that is not just a labour-market curiosity. It can…
The government has announced a GBP120 million support package for the UK ceramics sector, with applications expected to open in the summer once final design work is complete. For small manufacturers, suppliers and specialist workshops…
The government has confirmed amended Fuel Duty rates for 2026 to 2027, including an extension of the cut in Fuel Duty rates until 31 December 2026. For small firms that rely on vans, deliveries, mobile…
The first amber heat-health alert of 2026 is a useful prompt for small employers to check how they manage hot working conditions, especially where staff are on the road, outdoors, in kitchens, workshops, warehouses or…
The government has launched pilots to overhaul the fit note system, with the aim of moving away from a tick-box process and towards more practical support for people who are off sick or at risk…
Retail sales volumes fell sharply in April, with the latest official figures pointing to weaker fuel demand, softer clothing sales and a monthly dip in online spending. For small retailers, the useful lesson is less…
Applications have opened for operators that want to run taxi, bus and private hire-style self-driving passenger services in Great Britain, creating a new pilot route that transport, mobility and technology SMEs should watch carefully. The…
A temporary VAT cut for children’s meals and family attractions will run across the UK this summer, giving hospitality, leisure and visitor-economy SMEs only a short window to check whether they qualify and how they…
The UK has agreed a new free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, creating a potential export opening for small firms in food and drink, manufacturing, professional services, technology and other sectors that already…