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UK directors are facing a new phase of economic uncertainty. Confidence remains fragile amid tax increases, labour cost hikes, and regulatory change — with small firms and long-term sectors feeling the strain.
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AstraZeneca chief hints at US move, intensifying pressure on UK markets. The FTSE 100’s largest company may relocate its primary stock listing to New York, as its CEO signals strategic realignment.
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Nine-month window to overhaul sick pay sparks concern as employers brace for biggest workplace reform drive in decades.
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Job vacancies in the UK have hit a new low. As employers pause hiring and leave roles unfilled, ONS data points to a cooling market. Leaders warn that delaying recruitment too long could erode productivity and capability, with hidden costs for competitiveness.
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Eon’s UK arm reported an £800 million drop in turnover. The Coventry-based division’s sales fell to £2.5 billion for 2024, down from £3.3 billion the previous year, as lower wholesale commodity prices weighed on revenues. Pre-tax profit, however, edged up to £52 million due to a series of disposals.
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Directors’ confidence has fallen sharply as tax rises bite. The latest Institute of Directors index shows sentiment dropping close to pandemic-era lows, as fresh payroll taxes and looming new regulations unsettle business leaders across the UK in the run-up to autumn.
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Canada suspends its digital services tax to revive US talks. The tax aimed at US tech giants faced criticism from President Trump, who halted negotiations and threatened tariffs. Talks are set to resume, targeting a new trade deal by 21 July.
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UK introduces new steel safeguard measures from July 2025. The UK government has announced strengthened steel import safeguards, reducing quota liberalisation and implementing caps to protect domestic producers from redirected foreign imports in response to US tariffs.
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UK entry-level roles have dropped by a third since 2022. Automation is accelerating across sectors, with graduate and junior roles squeezed hardest. New figures show retail listings are down 78%, while AI hiring trends are reshaping the wider UK job market.
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Lotus has denied reports it will close its UK factory. The carmaker confirmed that production at its Hethel plant remains paused, but not closing, as officials moved to reassure workers and clarify media reports suggesting a US relocation.