New employers check list

Taking on your first employee can help a business grow, although it also brings a number of important responsibilities.

Before employing staff for the first time, business owners should consider the

Covering basic business risks

Many business owners spend considerable time focusing on sales growth, staffing and profitability, although basic business risks are sometimes overlooked until a problem arises. A simple review of key

Employment law changes pressure small businesses

Many small business owners are already feeling the effects of rising staffing costs, tighter recruitment conditions and increased administration. Recent employment law changes are now adding further

Hedging against rising costs

Rising prices remain a concern for many UK business owners, particularly where energy, materials, labour and finance costs are unpredictable. While it is rarely possible to eliminate cost pressures

Interest rate outlook for 2026

The outlook for UK interest rates during 2026 remains uncertain, although current expectations suggest relative stability, with the possibility of modest reductions later in the year if inflation

Data Protection rules are still alive

Businesses that collect or use personal information must comply with UK data protection law. Personal data includes any information that can identify a living individual, such as names, addresses,

Managing stock turnover

Stock turnover management is one of the most important drivers of business profitability, cash flow strength and resilience during periods of rising costs. Stock represents cash that has been