GDP rise is good news – but small firms need more than flashes of growth
Now the Government needs to ensure that growth among small firms is nurtured, rather than left to wither. It needs to think hard about how to support existing businesses, especially in those sectors which have been hardest-hit, and how to create the best possible environment for start-ups and entrepreneurs.
Proposals to cut second class delivery are “too drastic”, say small firms
Retention of six day a week service for first class letters "a good step", bulk mail delay from two to three days a "difficult but sensible" decision, but second class proposals should be revised, says FSB
HMRC decision to reverse helpline hours cut a relief for small firms
Investment in digital and telephone is needed - not a reduction in service - so small firms with tax queries can get speedy answers
Inflation dip points to future interest rate cut, but past damage still lingers
Growth measures targeted at small firms are a good start, and should be built on to get economy back in gear
‘Holding pattern’ for small business investment is suppressing growth, report finds
FSB publishes the Small Business Index for Q4 2023
GDP growth must not turn into another false dawn, say small firms
GDP is up - but it's too early to celebrate with any great level of vigour, as small firms are certainly finding the going tough at the moment.
FSB Scotland: heat in buildings proposals must be redesigned with small business in mind
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Scotland has called on the Scottish Government to ensure its proposals for the transition to zero-emissions heating systems are designed with the needs of small firms placed front and centre.
Increase in VAT threshold and cuts to self-employed NICs welcomed – but firms still face serious challenges
FSB was pleased to see a package of small business support in the Budget.
Financial Conduct Authority’s response to FSB’s personal guarantees super-complaint is “just not good enough"
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has today (5 March 2024) published its response to the super-complaint on suspected excessive use of personal guarantees by banks, raised in December by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
Pace of AI adoption means Government and education system have to catch-up fast, say small firms
Redefining Intelligence: The Growth of AI Among Small Firms, highlights that while AI excels at recognising patterns at speeds that dwarf human capabilities, it falls short on nuance, ethics and empathy - qualities only humans can bring to the table.