Bank Rate held: what energy cost uncertainty means for SMEs
The Bank of England has held Bank Rate at 3.75%, but energy price uncertainty means small businesses should still stress-test borrowing, cash flow and costs.
MVL study: what solvent company closures mean for SME owners
A new Insolvency Service study says Members’ Voluntary Liquidations are generally working effectively. For SME owners, the useful point is knowing when an MVL may be relevant, what it is designed to do, and why professional advice matters.
Coalfield investment: what new industrial sites could mean for local SMEs
Six former coalfield areas are set to share £13.5 million for new industrial developments. For SMEs, the opportunity is practical: more workspace, local jobs and supplier demand if delivery matches business needs.
UK borrowing jump: what small businesses should watch now
UK borrowing came in above expectations in May. For small businesses, the practical issue is what tighter public finances and uncertain interest rates mean for cash flow, borrowing and costs.
Bank Rate held at 3.75%: what SMEs should do about borrowing costs now
The Bank of England has held Bank Rate at 3.75%, but small firms should not assume cheaper borrowing is close. Here is what to check on cash flow, finance costs and pricing.
UK-India trade deal starts on 15 July: what SMEs should prepare
The UK-India free trade agreement enters into force on 15 July 2026. Small exporters and importers have a short window to check origin declarations, pricing and supplier paperwork.
CMA tightens Google Search rules: what small businesses should watch
The CMA has imposed new rules on Google Search covering fair ranking and data portability. For UK SMEs, the practical issue is how search visibility, AI answers and complaint routes may change.
Inflation held at 2.8%: what SMEs should watch on transport, food and margins
UK CPI inflation stayed at 2.8% in May, but the detail matters for small firms: transport inflation rose sharply while food and household-related costs eased.
CMA clears ABF-Hovis deal: what small food firms should check
The Competition and Markets Authority has cleared Associated British Foods’ planned acquisition of Hovis, a decision that matters beyond the supermarket bread aisle. For small food businesses, independent retailers, cafes and local suppliers, the ruling…
HMRC phases in payrolling benefits in kind: what small employers should prepare for
HMRC says mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind will now be phased in from April 2027, giving small employers more time to prepare payroll data, software and staff processes.