Latest news and industry insights

Official figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that the unemployment rate in the three months to March 2026 has risen to 5% from 4.9%.

Originally proposed in last autumn’s Budget, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have introduced a targeted advance assurance service for Research and Development (R&D) tax relief claims. The service, which is a pilot, aims to provide businesses with clarity on complex or high-risk areas before they make a claim.

A major police offensive was announced last week that will tackle dodgy shops linked to organised crime. Rogue high street businesses will face raids, closures and cash seizures.

Incorrect advice provided by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other websites is contributing to a growing trend of late VAT return filing and payment.

Most businesses don’t need big ideas or complicated plans to improve profit. In practice, profits will usually increase by tightening up a few everyday things and being more deliberate about how time and effort are applied.

The government has announced it has signed a new partnership with Wayve, a British company that is developing self-driving vehicle technologies.

The ongoing Middle East conflict has raised concerns over its effect on UK inflation and interest rates in the coming months.

Running a business in recent times has been a lesson in resilience. Costs continue to increase and customers are cautious. Cash is proving tight for many businesses and credit control is a core discipline for keeping a business afloat in such times.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) have reported that 161 pubs closed across the country in the first three months of 2026. It is estimated that this has led to the loss of 2,400 jobs. Scotland has been the most heavily affected, with 41 closures between January and March.