Paul Andrews

Podcast series A Gentle Start: The Showercast, now available on Spotify and Apple | Will Ireland/PinPep

The increase in Employers National Insurance Contributions is a significant cost for the family business sector which collectively employs 13.8 million people across the UK. These increases, irrespective of the sector in which a family firms operates represent an increased cost of doing business that will undoubtedly have consequences for many businesses, and for some result in the need for cost savings, redundancies and possible closures, especially in the labour intensive sectors such as retail and hospitality.

Victoria Bari says those entering the industry often prefer emails and messaging, which are less effective than talking to people. She is urging the newer consultants at Berry Recruitment Group – which is headquartered in St Albans, Herts - to pick up phones and talk to clients because they are more likely to be successful.

Following the announcement of this year's King's Awards for Enterprise, JJ Smith and Archwood Group have strengthened their partnership to drive sustainable innovation in timber manufacturing. JJ Smith, recently honoured for International Trade, and Archwood Group, awarded for Sustainable Development are combining their expertise to lead the industry in eco-friendly practices and advanced production technology.

Perhaps the biggest surprise in the Budget was the extent of the restrictions imposed on two valuable inheritance tax reliefs, being Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR). Is this the end of the road for BPR and APR? Accountants from Rickard Luckin share their thoughts.

The prospect of setting up a family business can be both exciting and daunting in equal measure. Whilst the promise of building a successful enterprise alongside loved ones is motivating, there is a lot to be considered at the outset, ensuring strong foundations have been laid so that the business can grow steadily and sustainably.

The latest Lloyds UK Sector Tracker reveals that in October, food and drink manufacturers recorded the fastest output growth of all sectors for the fourth consecutive month (65.3 vs. 66.1 in September).

Family businesses play a crucial role in economies across the globe. They create jobs, strengthen community ties, and build wealth that lasts for generations. However, these businesses face unique challenges such as succession planning, governance issues, and family dynamics. Strengthening a family business legacy calls for careful planning and deliberate effort. What enduring strategies can help family businesses thrive and continue their legacies?

Deloitte Global has released its Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT) 2025 Predictions report, forecasting a pivotal gap year for Generative AI (GenAI) and the TMT sector—spanning from technical challenges for the industry to societal imperatives. By addressing challenges in infrastructure, gender equity, energy consumption, trust, and capabilities, the industry could be poised for a significant leap forward and is well positioned to determine the future of Al's legacy.

Family Business United is delighted to be working with our friends and partners at Western Pension Solutions who are investigating the future of pensions for family businesses.