
Labour's Zero-Hours Contract Crackdown Could Cost UK Businesses Billions
New official analysis suggests that Labour's proposed employment rights bill, targeting zero-hours contracts, could cost UK businesses up to £2.9 billion annually.
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New official analysis suggests that Labour's proposed employment rights bill, targeting zero-hours contracts, could cost UK businesses up to £2.9 billion annually.

Proposed workplace reforms to ban zero-hours contracts are estimated to cost businesses in the UK up to £3 billion per year, despite expectations that such changes would support growth by improving staff conditions.

Leading employers and an energy trade body in the UK have called on the new prime minister, Andy Burnham, to reduce energy levies and taxes for businesses to stimulate economic growth.

A new survey reveals that a third of UK firms are calling for a reduction in business rates, with Scottish businesses expressing particular concern about their survival due to increasing cost pressures.

Ten years after the Brexit referendum, the UK is reflecting on the significant economic and political consequences of leaving the European Union. Many young Britons express disappointment, while analyses highlight ongoing challenges and a desire for closer ties with the EU.

A Bank of England survey reveals that British businesses expect to implement their sharpest price increases since early 2024, signaling strong inflationary pressures. This adds to a series of robust inflation signals from companies.

Businesses in Cardigan, including shops, cafes, and restaurants, are voicing concerns about increasing operational costs and declining customer footfall. These challenges are making it harder for them to operate effectively ahead of the upcoming election.

An article discusses how employment operating platforms, such as Employment Hero, can help streamline UK businesses in 2026 by addressing rising cost pressures and regulatory complexity.

New official analysis indicates that Labour's proposed employment rights bill, aimed at cracking down on zero-hours contracts, could cost UK businesses up to £2.9 billion annually.
German consumer protection groups and NGOs have filed criminal complaints against Meta and its managers over the company's new AI-powered smart glasses, seeking a sales ban. Concerns have been raised in Germany and the UK about privacy and the potential for constant surveillance.

British SMEs are actively diversifying their supply chains to gain competitive advantage and navigate international market volatility, as discussed by a business journalist and a Lloyds banking executive.

Businesses across Surrey and the UK have welcomed a government decision to cut VAT on children's meals and tickets to certain attractions.

Five NATO member countries have reportedly rejected Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's proposal to increase military aid to Ukraine by 0.25% of their GDP. This opposition comes as discussions continue regarding the level of support for Ukraine.

Sainsbury's and WH Smith are among the latest UK firms to warn that the ongoing conflict in Iran will negatively impact their customers and business operations.
A Bank of England survey indicates UK businesses are increasing their use of dynamic pricing, prompting a regulatory review by the prime minister following controversy over high ticket prices for an Oasis reunion tour.

National Cyber Security Centre urges increased vigilance over risk of indirect attack by hacktivists amid conflict US-Israel war on Iran – live updates UK businesses with a presence in the Middle…

The UK economy expanded by 0.4% between April and June, with some businesses reporting that hot weather and major sports events, such as the World Cup, contributed to growth in June.
Data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that UK businesses are not significantly expanding their use of artificial intelligence, primarily focusing on efficiency savings with free tools rather than developing new products.
Woodberry Packaging has announced the acquisition of two packaging businesses based in the United Kingdom.
UK businesses have rejected calls to set a maximum workplace temperature as a heatwave deepens, despite three unions reporting that over 1,000 people have signed up to stage a walkout on the hottest day of the year, with temperatures forecast to reach 39C.

A Bank of England survey indicates that British businesses are significantly increasing their expectations for selling prices in the coming year, fueling concerns about inflation.

UK retailer Shoe Zone has warned of a slump to loss due to the impact of the Iran war on trading, while overall UK inflation has jumped to 3.3%, attributed to the Middle East situation. These events highlight the economic repercussions of regional conflicts.

The Iran war continues to cause a global energy shock, driving fuel prices up and shaking the world economy, with Asia looking to COVID-era playbooks to tackle the crisis from the Strait of Hormuz blockage. Daily life in Asia is disrupted by the fuel crisis, and poor countries face catastrophe as the global economy pays a high price for the conflict.

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), affecting around eight million people in the UK, is costing businesses over £4 billion a year, leading researchers to advocate for workplace screening.