Edinburgh University students vote for feminism
The University of Edinburgh students association has become the first in the UK to become “officially feminist”, after a motion to adopt the position was almost unanimously passed.
AGCO take legal action against UK Government
The Association of Golf Course Owners (AGCO) is set to take legal proceedings against the UK Government in relation to VAT in golf.
British Growers Association and Association of Labour Providers unite to tackle sector’s labour challenges
The Association of Labour Providers (ALP) and the British Growers Association (BGA) have formed an alliance to improve labour supply to UK horticulture.
FSB says firms are increasing wages for staff
Research from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has found that half (49%) of small businesses with employees on the National Minimum Wage have either increased wages in the last 12 months or are considering raising pay. The data shows less than a quarter (23%) of small firms have any staff on minimum wage, down from 27 per cent in 2012.
SME confidence hits highest levels for three years
Confidence among small and medium-sized businesses stands at its highest level for three years, says the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). The Federation’s Confidence Index, which measures responses from 2,000 owner managers on a quarterly basis, found that four in ten had experienced increased revenues during the previous three months, and that confidence was improving in almost all sectors across the UK.
David Cameron seeks the best small firms in the land
In a move to encourage entrepreneurial activity and enhance its reputation among SMEs, the Conservative Party has launched a campaign to find the best small firms and entrepreneurs in the UK. Anyone can nominate their favourite local company, whether it’s a florist, grocery store, restaurant or marketing agency! Just head to Your Favourite Smal Business to complete the form and nominate your favourite local business.
FSB says small firms’ hiring intentions are on-the-up
Small businesses are taking on more staff compared with last quarter according to the Federation of Small Businesses. The Voice of Small Business Index found that 15 per cent have increased their staff numbers in the third quarter of 2013. This is the highest figure reported since the Index began in 2010 and mirrors recent improvement in labour market figures.
£3.2bn available to SMEs via Regional Growth Fund
The Regional Growth Fund, a £3.2bn fund operating across England, is due to accept applications from SMEs for the next round of funding. The fifth round – which will focus entirely on private enterprise proposals – is due to open in October, and will close on 9th December 2013.
UK manufacturing output growth fastest in nearly 20 years
The UK’s manufacturing industry continued to grow in August 2013 as output and new orders in the sector rose at the fastest rate since 1994. August was the country’s fifth consecutive month of expansion, according to the Markit/CIPS Purchase Managing Index.
Mayor of London urges SMEs to capitalise on Tokyo 2020 Games
With Tokyo confirmed as the host of the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mayor of London Boris Johnson is urging SMEs to get involved and sell to the Japanese city, reports Real Business. Speaking today in Canary Wharf, Johnson told 500 London-based small businesses they should use their skills, expertise and experience of the 2012 Games to win contracts around the globe.