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Energy costs now worry nearly three quarters of UK businesses. The latest ONS survey finds particular concern in hospitality and transport, alongside heightened supply chain uncertainty.
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New research estimates overlooked British microbusiness sectors generate £868bn annually. Xero and Cebr identify 3.3 million businesses supporting 3.8 million direct jobs, while finding significant differences in how often their sectors feature in parliamentary debate.
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Avon Technologies has raised expectations and set new growth targets. The protective equipment group expects 2026 performance above market forecasts and is targeting revenue above $600m over five years.
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The CMA has formally launched its Healthcare Ireland merger inquiry. Its Phase 1 review of the completed Hutchinson Homes acquisition now carries a statutory decision deadline of 3 December.
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TPFG has bought a 25% stake in Enteka AI today. The £900,000 investment follows deployment across more than 210 offices and is tied to a three-year preferred-provider agreement.
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Shell expects refining margins to rise sharply in third quarter. Its indicative margin increases from $24 to $42 a barrel while Integrated Gas production is also expected to move higher.
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Galliford Try has joined Oxford’s major new construction framework today. Its eight-year appointment covers university projects worth more than £15m, within a lot valued at up to £1.6bn across the contractor panel.
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Bridgepoint has upgraded profit guidance after stronger fund performance today. The investment group has also reached its €28bn fundraising target early and expects substantially higher performance-related cash receipts over the next five years.
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Imperial and Warwick have launched a joint scale-up pathway today. The initiative connects West London research with West Midlands manufacturing to help technology companies access investment, facilities, talent and supply chains.
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Likewise is buying key Headlam assets from administrators for cash. The £14.9m transaction adds a major distribution centre, specialist flooring businesses and 110 employees following Headlam’s entry into administration.