Exports to EU partially rebound after January slump – as wider economy returns to growth

Trade levels have been affected – not only by the Brexit transition period, but also COVID restrictions.

The Office for National Statistics confirm that, although there was a 46.6% rise in EU export sales in February, they are still well down on last year.

Imports from the EU are yet to significantly rebound, with several issues hampering trade.

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Small business confidence grows as shops reopen in England and Wales

 Monday the 12th was a significant day for all businesses, the first day non-essential shops were permitted to open since December.Small businesses are set to benefit most from the reopening, with reports suggesting they are more confident about the future than a year ago.

“The FSB is also calling for cuts to hiring costs amid redundancy fears, as well as renewed efforts to tackle late payments and innovative approaches to debt.”

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HMRC to contact self-employed claimants for grant four SEISS applications

With the fourth support scheme due to open to claims, HMRC have confirmed they will be contacting all eligible self employed by email. All claims must be made on or before 1st June 2021.

Claims for this scheme need to be made by the individual and cannot be processed by an agent or adviser.

“There is no requirement that an earlier SEISS grant has been claimed to be eligible to claim the upcoming fourth grant.

To make a claim, applicants will need the following:

  • Self-assessment Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)
  • National Insurance number
  • Government Gateway user ID and password
  • UK bank details including account number, sort code, name on the account and address linked to the account.

Only provide bank account details where a Bacs payment can be accepted.”

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Improving digital capabilities is top priority for 60% of UK family businesses

A survey carried out on family businesses have indicated that, increasing the use of new technologies is one of the top priorities for over half of them.

“A lot of energy has been spent on survival during Covid-19 – finding a way through and planning for the future. Now businesses can get back to focusing on strengthening their workforce and operations.”

Many UK family businesses are also falling behind in prioritising sustainability in their strategies.

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