Latest News
Business rate holiday extended for SMEs
Small businesses will be exempt from business rates for an extra six months after Chancellor George Osborne announced an extension of the holiday on the charge until April
Consumers reveal their online shopping gripes
Speedy checkout, timed delivery slots and the option to collect from store are among the most important issues for internet shoppers, according to research by address auto-fill software company, Postcode Anywhere.
Intolerance of social networks could hurt SMEs
Employers who impose strict policies against the use of social networking tools designed for business are at risk of alienating ‘Generation Facebook’ from joining their organisation, research finds.
High street sales down on 2010
High street sales volumes fell on a year ago in November for the sixth consecutive month, with retailers expecting another decline in December, according to the Confederation of British Industry.
SMEs handed subsidy for youth employment
Businesses are set to benefit from subsidies worth £2,275 provided to help them take on 18 to 24 year old workers.
Businesses identify customer service weakness
Four fifths of small businesses feel their customer service could be improved, despite two thirds identifying that responsiveness is the most important factor in their company.
Micro businesses could dodge HR red tape
Companies employing fewer than ten staff may be exempted from employment regulations, says business secretary Vince Cable.
FPB calls for reform to benefit SMEs
The government must address a number of key issues affecting small businesses in next week's Autumn Statement if the economy is to grow next year, says the Forum of Private Business.
SMEs prefer experience in candidates
Almost two thirds (64 per cent) of small businesses look for experience over qualifications when hiring, research finds.
BCC outlines plan for job creation
The British Chambers of Commerce has urged the prime minister to adopt a five-point plan to encourage job creation among small businesses.
FPB: Lack of energy watchdog could harm SMEs
Proposals to better protect small businesses from energy companies could be undermined because of the lack of a dedicated watchdog, the Forum of Private Business warns.
Confidence drops as Eurozone crisis unfolds
The continuing Eurozone crisis has caused a sharp fall in confidence among senior business leaders, the Confederation of British Industry has said.
Fund for vocational training unveiled
Small businesses will be able to bid for a share of a new £250 million government fund for vocational training programmes in the new year.
Cable announces plans to facilitate apprentice hiring
Business secretary Vince Cable has announced new measures to help employers gain the skilled workers they need to grow.
Young: Businesses never had it so good
Reappointed government advisor Lord Young has claimed, ‘There has never been a time of more opportunity to create or grow a business.’
