Desk shortages are driving office avoidance, says new data, as companies that downsized after Covid struggle to accommodate returning staff.
Category: In Business
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UK Christmas shopping rebounds with higher spending on high street and online
UK christmas shoppers are spending more in stores and online than last year, with a 2.3% uplift driven by electronics and homeware. discover how black friday spillover, a cautious consumer mood, and late festive footfall are shaping the retail landscape this holiday season.
London’s black cabs on the brink: why driver numbers are plummeting and what’s at stake
London’s black cabs are at risk of disappearing by 2040 due to an ageing workforce, soaring electric costs and anti-car measures. explore the struggle to save this iconic British institution.
Moonpig debuts AI handwriting tool to bring personal touch back to online cards
Moonpig unveils a new AI-based handwriting feature, letting users create a personalised digital font from their own pen strokes. The retailer’s boss says it bridges the gap between quick online convenience and heartfelt, handwritten notes.
AI could be set to revolutionise UK’s careers advice sector
As careers funding dwindles, AI-driven tools offer hope for personalised, cost-effective guidance. Experts say embracing advanced technology could help more young people and jobseekers find their ideal career paths.
The Trends Impacting UK Businesses in 2025
Recent years have been characterised by unique events, constant change, and challenging economic conditions. While businesses have become accustomed to operating in an ever-evolving landscape, the start of a new year offers a chance to reflect and look forward.
Empowered Events revolutionised the British Business Excellence Awards with HP technology
Founded three years ago by Sarah Austin, Empowered Events, has swiftly risen to prominence in the world of large-scale event management.
Welsh start-up accelerator announces award-winning entrepreneurs ready to reshape their sectors
The Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme celebrates six outstanding entrepreneurs for their innovation and growth. From green steel production to AI agents, these winners highlight Wales’s next wave of forward-thinking businesses.
Family-owned firms call on Chancellor to rethink inheritance tax overhaul
Over 160,000 family businesses and farms urge Chancellor Rachel Reeves to review tighter inheritance tax rules. They warn the new measures risk premature sales, job losses, and a £1.25bn hit to the UK economy.
Record surge in job applications as UK vacancies dwindle
Job seekers face fierce competition as applications per vacancy soar by 286% year-on-year, new figures reveal. With fewer roles advertised and rising economic pressures, employers and candidates alike must adapt.
Landlords defy tax hike as buy-to-let share of market edges higher
Landlords are increasing their share of UK property purchases despite a stamp duty surcharge hike. Recent data shows buy-to-let investors remain resilient, challenging predictions that higher taxes would deter them.
Elon Musk’s Starlink set to transform rural UK connectivity as satellite race heats up
Elon Musk’s Starlink and rival satellite providers aim to end rural “not spots” in British mobile coverage. Their groundbreaking technology could connect remote areas and challenge traditional operators, ushering in a new era for countryside living.
Young workers twice as likely to take mental health leave as new UK research reveals scale of crisis
New research shows that 30% of Gen Z workers were signed off for mental health in 2024. Employers must address workplace wellbeing, from flexible working to AI-driven support, to curb rising absenteeism and bolster productivity.
Bitcoin smashes $106,000 barrier as Trump hints at national crypto reserve
Bitcoin surged to a record $106,000 after Donald Trump hinted he may create a US national Bitcoin reserve. Investors hope the move will bolster crypto’s status, spurring major gains and driving the industry towards mainstream acceptance.
Make UK appoints Lord Harrington as new chair
Make UK, the leading organisation representing British manufacturers, has announced Lord (Richard) Harrington as its new Chair. He will succeed Lord (John) Hutton, who has served as Chair since 2022, and will formally take up the position in early 2025.
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