Business news 5 February 2026 The UK economy has started 2026 on a more positive footing, with fresh survey data pointing to improving activity in the services sector and rising private-sector confidence. However, beneath the headline growth figures, businesses continue

Business news 4 February 2026 UK businesses are facing a difficult mix of slowing growth, rising costs and ongoing uncertainty around tax, interest rates and labour supply. New warnings from leading economic forecasters suggest higher taxes and tighter public finances

Business news 3 February 2026 UK markets are brushing record highs, but for small and medium-sized businesses the operating environment remains difficult. Energy costs, tax pressure and a growing reluctance to take commercial risk are weighing on investment decisions, while

Business news 2 February 2026 UK businesses are facing a difficult start to February, with tax pressure, stubborn borrowing costs and rising compliance demands all colliding at once. While headline inflation has eased from its peak, costs for employers continue

Business news 30 January 2026 UK businesses head into 2026 under mounting strain, with tens of thousands now classed as being in critical financial distress just as HMRC prepares to call in billions of pounds in unpaid tax. At the