HMRC has set out a temporary 5% VAT rate for qualifying children’s meals and selected family attractions from 25 June to 1 September 2026. Hospitality, leisure and visitor economy SMEs should check tills, pricing and accounting treatment before it starts.
The government has announced a new concierge-style support service for high-growth companies, alongside plans for visa fee reimbursement for selected scale-ups in digital and tech, life sciences and clean energy. For smaller firms with serious…
The government has announced more than £200 million of support for AI adoption and skills. Small firms should watch for practical routes into training, assurance and sector support rather than buying tools in a rush.
HMRC has added new guidance for B2B parcel movements from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. Small firms should check whether their shipping process, duty information and customer details are still current.
An initial group of offshore wind supply chain companies has backed the government’s Fair Work Charter. For SME suppliers, the practical issue is how workforce standards, apprenticeships and tender expectations may shift.
The government has announced a new partnership on AI and entry-level jobs, with AI and tech training for young people. Small businesses should review junior roles, training needs and AI guardrails now.
HMRC has updated guidance on the Duty Reimbursement Scheme for businesses that paid, deferred or used state aid to waive EU import duty on goods brought into Northern Ireland. Some older claims must be made by 30 June 2026.
More than 50 Nantwich hospitality businesses have backed a call for extra government support, including a lower VAT rate. For small firms, the useful point is practical: review margins, staffing, supplier costs and cash flow before cost pressure forces rushed decisions.
The Valuation Office Agency has updated its technical manual on Check, Challenge, Appeal for business rates in England. For small occupiers, the useful point is practical: get the property facts right first, gather evidence early, and understand the time limits before trying to dispute a rateable value.
The government has announced a £4 million boost for small business debt advice through the Money and Pensions Service. For owners under cash-flow pressure, the useful point is simple: seek help early, separate business and personal liabilities, and make sure any repayment plan is realistic before arrears harden into a crisis.