UK government bond yields dip after Keir Starmer backs Rachel Reeves, calming market fears over fiscal uncertainty and future borrowing plans.
Category: News
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
Skills crisis threatens 1.5 million homes target as construction sector struggles to recruit
New research by City & Guilds reveals 76% of UK construction businesses face recruitment struggles, threatening the government’s 1.5 million homes target.
All companies trialling four-day working week opt to keep it after successful pilot
All 17 companies in the UK’s latest four-day working week trial will continue with reduced hours after reporting improved wellbeing, productivity and job satisfaction.
Frasers Group secures potential £3.5bn war chest to fund growth and acquisitions
Frasers Group replaces existing loans with new £3.5bn banking facility, signalling confidence in its expansion strategy and potential for further acquisitions.
Amazon’s robots on verge of outnumbering human warehouse staff as AI ramps up
Amazon now has over 1 million robots in its warehouses—matching its human workforce—as it ramps up AI-driven automation and reshapes jobs across the company.
Santander agrees £2.65bn deal to buy TSB from Sabadell
Santander agrees £2.65bn deal to acquire TSB from Spain’s Sabadell, beating Barclays in latest move amid accelerating UK banking consolidation.
Royal Mail unveils £1 million fund to support apprenticeships in small businesses
Royal Mail pledges £1m in apprenticeship levy gifting to help small UK businesses tackle skills gaps and drive growth, alongside launch of new Small Business Hub.
Greggs shares fall sharply as June heatwave hits sales and profits
Greggs warns of lower annual profits after June heatwave dents footfall and sales, sending shares down 13% and raising concerns over growth strategy.
Tech giants propose under-skin tracking and AI policing in radical justice overhaul
UK tech giants including Google, Amazon and Palantir discussed subcutaneous trackers, AI advisors and robot wardens with ministers to tackle prison overcrowding—sparking human rights concerns.
Industry chiefs sound alarm over ‘horrific’ packaging tax threatening UK businesses
UK industry leaders warn the new Extended Producer Responsibility packaging tax will push up prices, hurt SMEs, and drive production abroad. Defra finalises fees ahead of October rollout.
Crown Estate matches record profits on windfarm windfall but warns boom is temporary
The Crown Estate posts record £1.1bn net profit for a second year, fuelled by offshore windfarm fees. But CEO warns the windfall is temporary, with profits expected to normalise from 2026.
Reeves to cut cash ISA allowance in push to revive UK capital markets
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to cut the cash ISA allowance to encourage investment in UK equities, prompting backlash from savings providers and finance experts.
Confidence in short supply among bosses as tax hikes shake business outlook
UK business confidence fell sharply in June 2025, with investment and hiring intentions hit by tax rises and cost pressures, according to the Institute of Directors.
DHSC accused of wasting PPE Medpro gowns as experts reveal missed £85m resale opportunity
Day 9 of the PPE Medpro trial revealed that the UK government made no effort to repurpose or sell surplus gowns—worth up to £85m—despite sitting on 10 years’ worth of stock.
Barclays launches appeal over motor finance commission ruling
Barclays is back in court to appeal a ruling by the Financial Ombudsman over secret commissions in motor finance, amid fears of a £250m compensation bill.
