Supply Chain – British SME

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small UK manufacturer checking component supply paperwork beside batteries, magnets and recycling bins, with a small tucked-away Union Jack as the only coloured element

Critical minerals funding: what supply-chain SMEs should watch

by Alistair Cowen-Page
22 June 202615 July 2026

The government has announced £50 million for UK critical minerals projects. Manufacturing, recycling, engineering and importing SMEs should watch where the funding lands and review exposure to key materials.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small UK business owner checking delivery and food cost invoices, with a small tucked-away Union Jack as the only coloured element

Inflation held at 2.8%: what SMEs should watch on transport, food and margins

by Alistair Cowen-Page
17 June 202615 July 2026

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.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small UK bakery counter reviewing bread supply notes, with a small tucked-away Union Jack as the only coloured element

CMA clears ABF-Hovis deal: what small food firms should check

by Alistair Cowen-Page
16 June 202615 July 2026

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…