Latest News and Industry Insights

From April, people drawing the state pension may see an increase of more than £500 a year, thanks to the government’s triple lock guarantee. The policy means the pension rises each year by whichever is higher: 2.5%, inflation, or average wage growth.

Small businesses looking to expand premises could soon find it easier following new government commitments to make business rates fairer. An interim report from the Treasury says that the Chancellor will examine ways to tackle “cliff edges” in the system - sudden jumps in rates that can discourage investment.

From October 2025, businesses that fall under the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging (pEPR) scheme will receive their first invoices, covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has launched proposals that could see the £100 limit on contactless card payments raised - or even removed altogether. If agreed, shoppers may soon be able to pay for larger supermarket trips or restaurant bills with just a tap, without needing to enter a PIN.

Cyber-attacks are on the increase, and smaller businesses are by no means immune. Have you been the victim of an online scam or cyber-attack? Or worried that something like that may happen?

Aldi introduced a pay boost last week for its store assistants that will see their pay rise to at least £13.02 per hour nationwide, making it the first UK supermarket to pass the £13 mark. Within the M25, rates will start at £14.35, rising to £14.66 with length of service. All staff, regardless of age, will receive the same minimum rate – well above the new National Living Wage of £12.21.

The UK government is facing a fresh financial squeeze after long-term borrowing costs climbed to their highest level in a generation. The yield on 30-year government bonds (known as gilts) has reached 5.72% – the highest since 1998.

After three years of losses, it’s been reported that Royal Mail has returned to profit under its new owner, Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.

Many business owners we work with feel caught up in the day-to-day drudge. They’re handling customer queries, fixing problems, chasing invoices - and wondering how they’ll ever find the time to step back and think about where the business is heading.

If you're a sole trader or landlord with annual income over £50,000, a major change is coming your way. From 6 April 2026, you may be required to keep digital business records and submit quarterly updates to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) under Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax.

At Autumn Budget 2024, we were promised a consultation on the tax treatment of predevelopment costs. However, following the Court of Appeal’s decision on a recent case, the government is postponing publication of the consultation while it considers the implications of the decision.

Amidst all the news about increased tariffs in the US, the UK government has announced a cut to zero in import tariffs on a range of 89 foreign products.

In a small bit of good news, March’s inflation figures have been released showing a drop to 2.6% from 2.8% in February. The main reason? Lower petrol prices, which has offered some relief for households and businesses alike.

Running a business comes with financial risks, and sometimes, companies struggle to stay afloat. While facing insolvency is undoubtedly stressful, seeking professional help early can prevent serious legal consequences.

The Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 came into force on 6 April 2025. This law provides a new leave and pay entitlement for parents with a baby in neonatal care.

From 8 April 2025, Companies House has launched a new identity verification system as part of changes under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.