-
UK business confidence has reached its highest level since 2015. The Lloyds Bank Business Barometer shows optimism climbing for a third straight month in July, with hiring intentions and services sector strength offsetting ongoing cost pressures and uneven regional trends.
-
The UK’s ageing workforce is growing fast. Employers are investing less in training just as older workers face new risks from AI and the net zero transition. New CIPD research calls for urgent action to support reskilling and lifelong learning to keep older staff in work.
-
Cohort Capital has issued a £96 million loan facility. The transaction will refinance two four-star hotels in London and the North.
-
YouTube surpasses ITV as the UK’s second most-watched media brand. Ofcom’s report highlights the platform’s growing popularity, especially among younger viewers. Average daily viewing time for traditional broadcast TV decreased as on-demand services gained traction.
-
Investor interest shifts from AI to defence amid tensions. Retail investors show increased interest in the defence sector due to geopolitical tensions, with over 50% expecting it to grow the most in the next six months, surpassing AI and semiconductor equipment.
-
Müller acquires Biotiful Gut Health, entering functional yogurt sector. The acquisition allows Müller to access the growing market for natural health products. Biotiful will continue independently, with Müller supporting growth and innovation. Financial terms remain undisclosed.
-
Trump criticises UK’s North Sea oil taxation as excessive. US President Donald Trump has criticised the UK for high taxes on North Sea oil, calling it a “TREASURE CHEST” for the country. He urged for incentives to attract drillers, highlighting potential financial gains and reduced energy costs.
-
What if accessibility was more than a compliance box? Across the UK, businesses are discovering that practical changes — from digital audits to inclusive product design — are driving growth, loyalty, and innovation. Is your organisation ready to move from obligation to opportunity?
-
UK retail sales rose 0.9% in June, rebounding from May’s drop. Driven by hot weather and online promotions, volumes remain below pre-pandemic levels as consumer caution and inflation weigh on the sector’s recovery.
-
UK businesses are cutting staff at fastest rate since February. The latest PMI data shows economic momentum slowing, with declining new orders and export sales. Rising payroll costs and subdued demand are prompting companies to reduce headcounts, impacting growth.