The latest news affecting small and medium sized (SME) businesses in the UK
The UK’s leading manufacturing trade organisation, Made in Britain, has reported a 20% surge in membership applications in the wake of President Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on imported goods, as interest in “buying British” grows among businesses and consumers alike.
Tesla begins search to replace Elon Musk after 71% profit drop and growing investor unease over his political role, as Musk pledges to shift focus back to the company.
Business confidence rose to its highest level since September, boosted by Trump’s tariff delay and easing cost pressures, according to new data from the Institute of Directors.
US GDP contracts 0.3% in Q1, the first decline since 2022, as businesses rush to import goods ahead of Trump’s tariffs. Analysts warn of growing recession risks.
Greene King CEO Nick Mackenzie urges government to reform business rates, warning that tax hikes from the autumn budget and rising wage costs could threaten future investment.
A new report warns families earning £100,000 face tighter budgets than minimum wage households if they send two children to private school, as VAT drives up costs.
Dame Julia Hoggett and Insiya Jafferjee honoured at the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Awards for leadership in finance and innovation in sustainable packaging.
Amazon retreats from displaying Trump’s China tariffs at checkout after a direct call from the president, amid White House backlash over plans seen as politically hostile.
Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn says the company will phase out contract content creators and expand AI use across operations as part of a strategic pivot to become an “AI-first” platform.
Nigel Farage faces fierce backlash from charities and campaigners after claiming GPs are ‘massively overdiagnosing’ children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Thirteen winners announced at the Disability Smart Awards 2025, recognising outstanding work by organisations and individuals to improve accessibility and inclusion for disabled people.
Barclays profits rise to £2.7bn in Q1, driven by strong trading revenues amid Trump-induced market volatility, offsetting rising bad loan provisions tied to US economic uncertainty.
Aston Martin cuts exports to the US amid tariff uncertainty, despite narrowing losses and rising average car prices, with net debt hitting a record £1.26bn.
The UK government proposes extending the sugar tax to milk-based drinks like milkshakes, aiming to tackle excess sugar consumption despite criticism over rising costs.
Labour’s benefit cuts risk costing the UK economy over £38bn a year, says the Trussell Trust, as rising poverty places further pressure on public services and economic growth.
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