SMEs warned on all internet-exposed systems
Threat to industrial digital systems ramps up Disruptive cyber attacks are going beyond computers and into manufacturing and processing systems, Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) have been warned. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has seen a concerted and increased number of attacks on what’s known as Operational Technology (OT) in numerous sectors both […]
The UK Labour Market Is Changing: What Rising Costs and Youth Unemployment Mean for Employers
The UK labour market is entering a difficult period. Businesses continue to report pressure from employment costs, while unemployment and youth unemployment remain concerns. The latest figures show unemployment at 4.9% in the three months to July 2026, according to data highlighted by the British Chambers of Commerce. At the same time, the BCC has […]
Big changes to the Apprenticeship Levy
Renamed Growth and Skills Levy The Apprenticeship Levy has undergone its biggest overhaul since its introduction, with major changes taking effect from 1 August 2026. For Small to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), the most significant development is the expansion of what levy funds can be used for under the new Growth and Skills Levy. This expansion […]
UK-EU Trade Is Picking Up: What Exporting Businesses Should Know
After years of uncertainty surrounding the UK’s trading relationship with the European Union, there are signs that some aspects of UK-EU trade are becoming more positive. The latest trade figures reported in September show an upswing in UK exports, with the European Union making an important contribution. The British Chambers of Commerce highlighted the strength […]
Compulsory smart meter roll-out for small businesses
Introduction of smart-contingent contracts The UK government has unveiled its comprehensive response to the consultation on the post-2025 rollout of smart meters for non-domestic sites. The initiative targets approximately three million smaller businesses and public sector locations across Great Britain, aiming to accelerate the adoption of smart meters as a cornerstone of the Clean […]
Less Red Tape, More Digital Reporting: What the Corporate Reporting Changes Mean for Businesses
Businesses are often told that digital transformation is about adopting new technology. But sometimes the biggest opportunity comes from something much simpler: removing unnecessary administration. That is the thinking behind a new Government programme announced in September to overhaul corporate reporting requirements. The Government says the changes could save businesses more than £450 million a […]
Mileage allowances changed for tax year 2026-27
Rates have increased HMRC have reminded businesses that the Approved Mileage Allowance Payments (MAPs) have been updated for the 2026-27 tax year. Rates have: Increased to 55p per mile for the first 10,000 miles. Remained at 25p per mile after 10,000 miles. These changes are backdated to 6 April 2026. If you reimburse your employees […]
Inflation Is Rising Again: How UK Businesses Can Protect Their Margins
After several years of unusually high inflation and economic uncertainty, many businesses had hoped that price pressures were finally becoming easier to manage. The latest figures suggest the situation remains more complicated. UK CPI inflation reached 3.1% in August 2026, according to the Office for National Statistics, putting renewed pressure on businesses already dealing with […]
Mandatory payrolling of Benefits in Kind
Actions to take now The tax rules on Benefits In Kind (BIKs) are changing. From 6 April 2027 to 5 April 2028, Phase 1 of HMRC’s ‘Mandatory payrolling of Benefits In Kind and expenses’ comes into force. Phase 1 will apply only to company cars, car fuel, vans, van fuel and medical benefits. Mandatory […]
Prepare to be signed up for MTD
What you need to know Sole traders and landlords earning more than £50,000 have been required to keep digital records and send quarterly updates to HMRC via Making Tax Digital (MTD) since April 2026. For those who haven’t, HMRC is preparing to step in and sign you up. HMRC will automatically sign up […]