Management
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Services orders slump forces job cuts amid weak demand
UK services sector orders have fallen at their sharpest pace since 2022. Businesses across hospitality, professional services, and retail report the steepest drop in new business for nearly three years, with rising payroll costs and inflation forcing companies to cut jobs and delay new investment plans despite strong corporate earnings.
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UK launches strict late-payment crackdown for big firms
A sweeping set of late-payment laws will soon apply to UK corporates. New 45-day payment caps and multi-million-pound fines for repeat offenders are now set to reshape supplier relationships and boardroom behaviour, amid calls for greater corporate accountability and overdue relief for small businesses.
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UK leaders establish worldwide benchmark for AI evaluations
The UK introduces a new AI audit standard. The British Standards Institution has launched the world’s first international certification standard for AI assurance, creating new benchmarks for independence, rigour, and global governance.
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Why UK businesses are powering the electric vehicle transition
UK corporates now account for more than three-quarters of new electric vehicle registrations. Flexible schemes and company-wide adoption are accelerating the transition, as businesses move ahead of private drivers.
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Gen Z employees call for workplace financial support
Gen Z workers say financial worries harm job focus. Nearly half report distraction due to money stress, and most want practical employer help like discounts and education. With hundreds of thousands joining the workforce this summer, urgent questions arise for UK employers.
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The business case for effective mental health provision
Mental health support is now a critical issue for employers. Onebright’s Alison Bromley examines the economic and strategic imperatives behind effective workplace mental health provision — making the business case for investing in employee wellbeing and showing why organisations cannot afford to treat mental health as optional.
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Reeves to unveil new pension adequacy review
Rachel Reeves will announce a new Pension Adequacy Commission on 15 July. The review will assess whether UK workplace-saving rules provide adequate retirement income and is set to report back in 2026, amid growing scrutiny of pension outcomes for both employees and the self-employed.
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What the DUAA means for CMOs
New data rules reshape marketing compliance and campaign design. The DUAA brings clarity to cookie consent, lawful bases, and direct marketing — with specific implications for CRM, analytics, and digital strategy.
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Confidence tightens as directors weigh rising costs
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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Employment roadmap sets 2026 reforms, but sick pay deadline looms
Nine-month window to overhaul sick pay sparks concern as employers brace for biggest workplace reform drive in decades.