About

Ben Lobel was the editor of SmallBusiness.co.uk from 2010 to 2018. He specialises in writing for start-up and scale-up companies in the areas of finance, marketing and HR.

Small Business Banking

Do you need a business bank account? Which one is right for you?

Do you need a business bank account and what are the right questions to ask when choosing one?

Funding your small business

Opening a business bank account – how-to and best accounts

In this piece, we'll look at how to go about opening a business account in the UK and what services are out there.

Small Business Insurance

Businesses breaking law over employers liability insurance

Nearly a million small businesses are unwittingly breaking the law by not having compulsory employers’ liability insurance cover in place – and penalties are severe

Small Business Insurance

Small business insurance: What to look for in a policy

In this piece, we look at the variety of business insurance cover you should consider in your small company.

International Business

Freight forwarder: Everything you need to know

In this article, we’ll delve into what a freight forwarder actually is and does, how their costs are calculated, and where you might find a reputable agent if you decide you want to get some help with your shipment.

Employing & managing staff

Do I need to pay more to staff who work unsociable hours?

We are about to trade around the clock, 24 hours in some cases. Do we need to pay extra for employees who work unsocial hours?

Employing & managing staff

Six HR mistakes start-ups make and how to avoid them

Making staffing mistakes as a small business on a tight budget can be fatal. Here are the common ones and how not to fall foul of them

Accounting

Buying a car through your business

If I bought my car for £7,000 + VAT and use it 50/50 for business and personal use. How much can I claim back? I’m so confused.

Business management

A guide to car leasing for small businesses

In this piece, we look at how leasing your business vehicles can help save money.

Business Ideas & Planning

Opening a restaurant: The key ingredients to start-up success

In this piece, we discuss the most important steps to making your food business dream a reality.

Government Grants

How to get a business grant from the council

Since Brexit, the number of business grants offered by local authorities - many of them funded by the European Union - have dried up. We list council business grants still available for your small business