Latest News
SME margins still in decline
Businesses are putting up their prices but their profits are still falling, finds research.
Optimism increasing among consumers
Consumer confidence has improved for the first time in the UK since February, according to a study.
Consumers: ban cold calling
Cold calling is regarded as an interruption to daily life that should be banned, according to a survey.
Boost for global trade
The confidence of UK importers and exporters about the shape of the economy is on the up.
Inflation falls for second month
UK inflation dropped to 3.2 per cent in June from 3.4 per cent in May, its second monthly fall.
Exports yet to gather pace
The UK's trade deficit widened in May, knocking hopes that an export-led recovery is gaining momentum.
Recovery 'still on track’
The economy is still on the right growth trajectory, despite fears that spending cuts will plunge the UK back into recession, claim government and business bodies.
Manufacturing output falls
Industrial production fell by 0.4 per cent in April, after four consecutive monthly rises, according to official figures.
No export-led recovery for SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises are failing to take advantage of the favourable export environment.
Retailers score from World Cup sales
Excitement over the World Cup and better weather boosted high street sales last month.
Growth in manufacturing at 15-year high
Manufacturers enjoyed buoyant trading conditions in the second quarter, with output and order activity increasing by the highest rates since 1995.
VAT rise will cost jobs
As many as 163,000 jobs could be lost in the next four years if VAT is increased, warns the British Retail Consortium.
SMEs lax on email
Businesses are losing customers by not responding to customer emails.
Welcome boost for high street
Retail sales edged up last month, despite challenging conditions for consumer spending.
