Latest News
Profits fall in business services
Small businesses in the consultancy and business services sectors have seen profits fall during the last six months, finds a survey.
Cash for old bangers revs SME growth
Car sales were up by 26 per cent last month compared with February last year, largely due to the success of the government’s car scrappage scheme, says the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Shoppers splash the cash
Consumer confidence reached its highest level in two years, following news that the economy emerged from recession, says a poll from Nationwide.
Manufacturing powers ahead
Confidence among manufacturers has improved as demand for manufactured goods continues to rise, says industry body the Engineering Employers Federation (EDF).
Companies ‘blinkered’ about recession
The operating environment for businesses will ‘never return to pre-recession normality’ and a period of weak growth could continue until 2015, claims accountancy firm BDO.
Inflation jumps
The increase in VAT and rises in the price of oil pushed inflation in January up to a 14-month high.
Hairdressing: a cut above other trades
Being asked about holiday plans while getting a haircut might seem like idle chat, but hairdressers are the tradespeople customers have the best relationship with, claims a poll.
Shop closures fall
The rate of shop closures is easing, according to a study from research firm The Local Data Company.
Manufacturing continues to recover
Manufacturing output increased by 0.9 per cent in December compared to November, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
January sales on ice
Snow and the VAT increase have been blamed for the worst January sales in 15 years.
SMEs to access public sector ‘contracts pot’
A campaign has been launched to help smaller firms access the £220 billion worth of public sector contracts each year.
Manufacturing strongest in 15 years
Small manufacturing firms are the most optimistic about export prospects for the year ahead since October 1995, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).
Fight for market share is on
The recovery will create a more competitive environment for enterprise, say businesses.
SMEs welcome supermarket watchdog
Plans for a new supermarket ombudsman have been warmly received by small businesses.
Economy remains fragile
Manufacturing is showing some signs of growth, but overall the economy remains weak, according to a survey from British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).