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Extreme heat is now carrying measurable economic costs for employers. June’s heatwave reportedly caused 24 million lost working hours and £1.15bn in UK economic damage and health impacts.
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TikTok Shop is testing alcohol sales under tighter customer checks. The UK pilot uses account, checkout, and delivery-stage age verification for approved licensed retailers.
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YouTube is bringing shopping through creators deeper into UK retail. Boots, Debenhams, Etsy, M&S, Next, and Wayfair are among the early partners for its Shopping Affiliate programme.
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Small businesses face fresh reforms on payment, tax, and regulation. The government’s latest plan update covers late payment, e-invoicing, tax simplification, and finance access as SMEs continue to manage cash pressure.
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Regional business confidence has slipped as geopolitical shocks hit operations. ICAEW says confidence fell across most UK nations and regions in Q2, with inflation, energy costs, and sales pressure weighing on decision-making.
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Manufacturers face weaker orders while cost pressure keeps intensifying again. The CBI says July brought faster cost growth, falling output, and another expected decline in employment.
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Pubs and venues will receive deeper rates relief from April. The government says nearly 32,000 sites will benefit, but the wider test is whether targeted relief can offset rising costs across hospitality, leisure, and local high streets.
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CEO succession is becoming a more active governance discipline now. Holmes Noble has recruited sitting chiefs to mentor future leaders through its Ascent programme.
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MPs want employer tax cut to support under-25 hiring now. The Work and Pensions Committee says National Insurance rules are undermining youth employment and training.
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B2B marketing still struggles to win boardroom growth credit today. Propolis research finds most CEOs value marketing, but do not see it as a direct growth driver.