UK manufacturing output has declined for the first time in almost a decade, pointing to tough times ahead. Global trade tensions, higher wage bills, and escalating taxes are weighing on British industry—and what experts say must happen next.
Category: News
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
Car finance mis-selling: millions set to receive automatic compensation
Millions of UK motorists could receive automatic compensation under the FCA’s proposed car finance mis-selling redress scheme, bypassing claims management firms.
Extra cladding tax will jeopardise 1.5 million homes target, warns Berkeley Group
Berkeley Group warns that a new cladding tax could derail the UK’s 1.5 million homes target by 2029. Discover how rising costs and regulations may impact housebuilding.
Magnificent seven lose $2.7 trillion as tech stocks tumble amid Trump’s second-term jitters
America’s biggest tech firms shed $2.7 trillion in value just 50 days into Trump’s second term, as recession fears and aggressive trade moves rattle the once-booming Magnificent Seven.
SME lending review launched amid stubbornly high debt costs
The UK government has initiated a review into SME lending, citing persistently elevated borrowing costs and a sharp fall in net lending as key concerns for Britain’s economic growth.
Bernard Arnault looks to extend LVMH leadership until he’s 85
Bernard Arnault aims to raise LVMH’s age limit to 85, allowing him up to nine more years at the helm of the luxury titan as shareholders weigh succession plans.
Gold breaks $3,000 barrier as global uncertainties fuel investor rush
Gold prices soar above $3,000 an ounce for the first time as mounting geopolitical tensions and tariff spats push investors towards the safe-haven metal.
UK economy contracts in January, signalling a tougher spring statement ahead
The UK economy unexpectedly shrank by 0.1% in January, piling pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she prepares for this month’s spring statement. Manufacturing, oil and gas extraction, and construction all weakened, pointing to a challenging outlook.
Trump threatens 200% tariffs on European wine over whiskey levy
Donald Trump warns of imposing a 200% tariff on European wine and champagne unless the EU scraps its levy on American whiskey, risking a renewed transatlantic trade dispute.
Taxi firms crowdfund final legal push against Uber over VAT on fares
Two British taxi firms are crowdfunding to fight Uber over VAT on rides. The Supreme Court case could add 20% to fares outside London, reshaping UK minicab services.
UK farmers’ incomes stuck at 1970s levels, major report warns
UK farm incomes have stagnated since the 1970s, a new report finds, as consolidation in the supply chain and new taxes threaten Britain’s agricultural sector.
Northern Arc: Liverpool and Manchester set to unite to rival Oxbridge corridor
A joined-up “Northern Arc” spanning from the River Mersey to the Pennines could drive UK economic growth over the next decade, say Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
UK doesn’t rule out retaliation as Trump’s 25% metal tariffs fuel trade tensions
Britain debates retaliatory tariffs after the US imposes a 25% duty on steel and aluminium. Discover the government’s stance, EU countermeasures, and the rising global trade tensions.
Disabled employees under strain as PIP cut rumours grow
Rumoured PIP cuts could push more disabled workers into underprepared workplaces. Discover key findings from Barnett Waddingham’s report on burnout, discrimination, and the urgent need for inclusive support.
Retail sales rise modestly in February as Valentine’s Day boosts spending
Retail sales edged up 1.1% in February despite cautious shoppers, with Valentine’s Day boosting food and online spending. Discover the latest trends from BRC and KPMG.
