Pubs and premises insurance
In March 2025, the Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) wrote to all pub-owning businesses to reinforce the importance of complying with Regulation 46 of the Pubs Code. This regulation focuses on how premises insurance is handled and, crucially, the tied tenant’s right to seek a price match on insurance
How Small Businesses Can Survive a Recession
Recessions can be tough on small businesses, but they do not have to spell disaster. With some smart thinking and a bit of planning, many firms can keep going and even emerge stronger once the economy picks up. Here are some practical ways to stay afloat when times are hard.
1. Cut back on
How to Approach Your Bank for a Business Loan
Asking your bank for a business loan can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, you can give yourself the best possible chance of getting a positive outcome.
Start with a clear purpose
Banks want to know why you need the money. Are you looking to grow, cover
Business Advice: An Investment, Not a Cost
Flexible planning is essential for adapting to uncertainty, responding to challenges, and seizing new opportunities. The world is unpredictable, and rigid plans can quickly become outdated. Whether in business or personal life, flexibility ensures resilience and long-term success.
Unexpected events
Why Adequate Business Insurance is Essential for Small Businesses
For small business owners, especially those operating as sole traders or in partnerships without limited liability, having adequate business insurance is not just a safeguard—it’s a necessity. Without the legal protection of a limited company structure, personal assets such as your home and
Government backed Start-Up Loans
The Government-backed Start-Up Loans scheme offers unsecured loans of £500 to £25,000 per person (up to £100,000 per business) to help entrepreneurs grow. With a fixed 6% interest rate and mentoring support, it’s a great funding option for new businesses.
Securing financing to start or grow a
Sources of funding for small businesses
Starting or growing a small business often requires capital, but securing the right funding can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are various funding sources available to entrepreneurs, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Personal Savings
Many small business owners start with their own
Essential Credit Control for SMEs
A well-structured credit control system is crucial for small businesses to maintain cash flow and reduce the risk of bad debts. Without proper controls, late payments can disrupt operations and put financial strain on the business.
Clear Credit Terms
Setting clear credit terms at the outset ensures
The benefits of benchmarking financial results
Benchmarking financial results involves comparing a business’s financial performance against industry standards or competitors. This process offers numerous benefits, helping businesses identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.
Firstly, benchmarking provides a clear
E-invoicing consultation
HMRC together with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) have launched a new consultation on e-invoicing to encourage its broader adoption among UK businesses and government departments. The consultation will run for 12-weeks and aims to cut paperwork for businesses and help improve