Business

More in Business

Tax-free status restored for delayed civil service pension payouts

The government has removed the two-year deadline that made delayed civil service pension death benefits taxable, protecting bereaved families from unexpected tax bills caused by administrative backlogs at Capita.

5 min read

Micro Budget Sets Stage for PM's 10-Year Growth Plan Next Month

Chancellor Healey's autumn Budget prioritised stability over radical reform, deferring major policy announcements to PM Burnham's 10-year plan due next month. The £65bn borrowing package aims to provide breathing space amid Middle East conflict pressures and mounting welfare costs.

4 min read

Budget 2026 Q&A: Experts answer your questions on Healey's fiscal plan

Chancellor John Healey's first budget introduces energy bill relief funded by a bank windfall tax. The Guardian's economics experts answer reader questions about whether the measures represent genuine policy change or incremental adjustments within fiscal constraints.

2 min read

South West businesses weigh Budget gains and losses

Business leaders in Devon and Cornwall have offered mixed reactions to the Budget, with small retailers welcoming business rates relief while farming and hospitality sectors say they have been overlooked.

6 min read

Island Energy rules out gas standing charge removal despite UK policy shift

Island Energy Group has ruled out plans to remove gas standing charges from bills on the Isle of Man, despite the UK government's decision to eliminate them on the mainland. The utility serves 40,000 customers across three crown dependencies and says any changes would require regulatory consultat...

4 min read

Farmer calls minimum wage rise 'massive blow' to rural businesses

A Worcester farmer has criticised the Budget's minimum wage rise as a "massive blow" to rural hospitality and farming businesses, saying the government's measures amount to "tinkering" without substantial support.

4 min read

Jersey Minister Approves 2.8% Minimum Wage Rise to £13.97 Per Hour

Jersey's Social Security Minister has approved a 2.8% increase in the minimum wage to £13.97 per hour from 1 April 2027, following a recommendation from the Jersey Employment Forum. Trainee rates remain unchanged.

3 min read

Households Face 'Painful' Years as Living Standards Decline Through 2029

Economic think tanks warn of "painful" years ahead as living standards face decline through 2029. The Resolution Foundation projects working-age households will lose £1,050 in disposable income, while the IFS calls this decade the worst on record for income growth.

6 min read

Poundland faces administration as rescue deal collapses

Poundland edges towards administration as American owner Gordon Brothers rejects a solvent rescue bid from Martin Property Group, restricts working capital, and pursues alternative sales options. Three independent directors have resigned in protest.

4 min read

Japan's Haunted Homes: How Ghost Stories Create Bargains for Renters

Japan's stigmatised properties—homes where deaths occurred—now attract bargain hunters as housing costs soar. Renters and buyers can save 30-50% by overlooking supernatural concerns.

6 min read

Small business owners say Budget fails to ease their struggles

Small business owners in Wolverhampton say the government's Budget fails to address their rising costs, with butchers, plasterers and chip shop owners citing energy bills and employment costs as major concerns.

5 min read

Haulier attributes diesel theft to soaring fuel costs

A Worcester haulage company has blamed rising diesel prices for a 400-litre fuel theft from two vehicles. Director Martin Pinches said diesel had become "liquid gold" and estimated the stolen fuel was worth £800. The incident highlights growing pressure on businesses as diesel prices exceed £2 pe...

4 min read