Advice and Ideas for UK Small Businesses and SMEs
Employing & managing staff
Holiday plans may be on the minds of many now that winter is behind us, but the majority of small businesses say they are unaware of entitlements going up next week.
Employing & managing staff
The recent sacking of 850 agency workers by BMW demonstrated how companies use non-permanent staff to protect themselves in a turbulent economy. But you need to know the pitfalls before hiring temporary workers.
News
Sir Alan Sugar's attempts to promote the benefits of apprenticeships would seem timely, as a new survey reveals employers are largely unaware of government reforms to cut bureaucracy in the system.
Office & home working
Office space costs can often leave companies with little room to breathe. Here SmallBusiness.co.uk and John Spencer, CEO of MWB Business Exchange, outline the potential benefits of serviced offices.
Small Business Banking
Do I need to open a business bank account or can I simply use my personal current account for my small business?
Tax
I heard that the government were helping small business by deferring payment of VAT. Is this true and if so, what is the procedure?
News
Mayor of London Boris Johnson has welcomed a funding package of £23 million to help small to medium-sized businesses in the capital.
Finding and selling to customers
With a million unwanted Christmas presents sold on ebay last year, gift vouchers are becoming a popular way to avoid upsetting a loved one with an ill-chosen purchase. Here's how they can benefit your business.
Small Business Insurance
Retailers being refused trade credit insurance is leading to problems in the industry, especially for small to medium-sized businesses, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) warns.
Sole trader
Setting up as a sole trader can be the easiest, and most cost-effective route for going into business. But you will need more than a spare room and internet connection to make your idea a success.
Small Business Banking
The likes of The Body Shop and Waterstone’s used funding through the Small Firms Loan Guarantee (SFLG) scheme to get off the ground. But with banks now so reluctant to lend, some believe it’s time for an overhaul
News
The Competition Commission has now published its report on the grocery sector and is calling for greater competition between UK supermarkets.