News
UK warned it will rely on US gas as calls grow to boost North Sea output
Britain could rely on US LNG for 60% of gas by 2035, prompting calls to boost North Sea production to strengthen energy security.
Sunday 18 October 2026
The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
Britain could rely on US LNG for 60% of gas by 2035, prompting calls to boost North Sea production to strengthen energy security.
Roadchef will invest £300m in UK motorway services after securing 75-year lease extensions, boosting EV charging, HGV facilities and retail.
UK firms invest less than most G7 peers, with high energy costs and low capital intensity holding back productivity and growth, says IPPR.
Bristol-based Sintela secures $200m US border contract using fibre-optic sensing and AI to detect threats across land and sea borders.
YouTube tops global influence rankings as tech giants dominate media impact, with AI brands rising and Elon Musk named most influential CEO.
Innovate UK announces winners of its Agentic AI Pioneers Prize, awarding funding to startups advancing AI in life sciences, manufacturing and creative sectors.
The FCA has reduced the car finance compensation bill to £7.5bn, while increasing average payouts, as lenders and consumers weigh potential legal challenges.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos reports $593m loss and skips dividend as energy volatility and Middle East tensions drive up costs and risks.
Ford’s FCE Bank has set aside £155m for car finance mis-selling claims as the FCA prepares to unveil rules for a multibillion-pound compensation scheme.
UK retail sales fell 0.4% in February as shoppers cut spending, with economists warning the Iran war could further weaken demand and confidence.
UK businesses are more financially vulnerable than before the Ukraine war, with rising energy costs and interest rates increasing corporate distress.
Dyson reports £440m sales decline due to US tariffs and weak demand, but profits rise after cost cuts and continued investment in innovation.
UK petrol prices are set to exceed £1.50 per litre as oil costs surge after the Iran conflict, with diesel rising even faster, warns the RAC.
The US has warned Keir Starmer’s plans to align with EU rules could disrupt UK-US trade, raising concerns over future economic ties.
Next will invest £300m in UK warehouses, including a new Yorkshire site, as it targets £2.5bn economic boost and accelerates online growth.