HLAS

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirmed last week that the annual inflation rate for August 2025 stood at 3.8%, the same level recorded in July. Although airfare costs rose at a slower pace over the year, food prices continued to climb, reaching 5.1% in August. This persistent increase is placing added strain on households as well as hospitality businesses. UK inflation remains higher than Europe The ONS highlighted that inflation in the UK appears to be “significantly higher” than in France (0.8%) and Germany (2.1%).One contributing factor is the rise in employers’ National Insurance contributions, which many businesses have [...]

From April, people drawing the state pension may see an increase of more than £500 a year, thanks to the government’s triple lock guarantee. The policy means the pension rises each year by whichever is higher: 2.5%, inflation, or average wage growth. The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics suggest that the average earnings growth of 4.7% will be the measure used. For those on the new state pension (anyone reaching state pension age after April 2016), the weekly amount for a full entitlement is expected to increase to £241.05, or £12,534.60 a year. That’s a rise of [...]

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) ‘Risk-reduction through design’ awards, which highlight UK employers that have taken practical steps to reduce musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risks in the workplace. The awards, jointly sponsored by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF), recognise both large and small businesses that have introduced design improvements to ease the strain of lifting, pushing, pulling, awkward postures or other manual handling tasks. Previous winners have included organisations from sectors such as food production and construction, all with a shared commitment to creating safer, healthier workplaces. Why enter? [...]

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has unveiled proposals that could see the current £100 cap on contactless card payments increased – or potentially removed altogether. If approved, this would mean shoppers could soon pay for larger supermarket shops or restaurant bills with a simple tap, without needing to enter their PIN. Why now? When contactless payments were first introduced in 2007, the limit was just £10. It has risen gradually over the years, most recently reaching £100 in October 2021. According to the FCA, the new proposal reflects both rising living costs and changes in how people choose to pay. [...]

From October 2025, businesses that fall under the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging (pEPR) scheme will receive their first invoices, covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. These invoices, called Notices of Liability, will be based on the packaging data you submitted for 2024. What to expect Invoices will be issued through the Report Packaging Data (RPD) system, which only registered users can access. PackUK will notify Primary Contacts and Approved Users of the invoice and how to access it. However, if your finance team will need access, it would be worth making sure they [...]

Cyber-attacks are on the rise, and smaller businesses are not exempt. Have you ever fallen victim to an online scam or cyber-attack, or worried that you might? If so, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has a collection of resources that may be useful. The guidance is divided into six key areas and offers clear, practical steps you can take. Here’s an overview. Phishing Phishing occurs when you receive a suspicious message, usually containing a link designed to trick you into handing over personal information. NCSC advises against clicking on such links or entering any details. However, if you have [...]

The government has recently released updated guidance to help organisations advance gender equality in the workplace. Unlike theory-based approaches, this advice is intended to be practical and grounded in evidence of what actually works. The document sets out effective actions, supported by strong evidence, and promising actions, where research shows potential but is not yet extensive. This resource can be used to shape action plans within your business, supporting the creation of a more inclusive working environment. Below is a short overview of what the guidance covers. Begin with the data The first step recommended is to take a data-driven [...]

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is urging businesses to create a business rates valuation account so they can access their latest commercial property valuation. The VOA updates the rateable values of all business premises in England and Wales every three years. The next revaluation will come into effect on 1 April 2026, based on open-market rental values as of 1 April 2024. Business rates are worked out from your property’s rateable value. While this is not the final bill, it is the starting figure. Local authorities then apply a multiplier and any reliefs that apply to calculate the amount payable. [...]

The government has confirmed that Professor John Van Reenen, a prominent economist from the London School of Economics, will be providing direct advice to the Chancellor on improving productivity across the UK. His appointment forms part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to boost economic growth and raise living standards nationwide. Professor Van Reenen is an academic with extensive experience in productivity, innovation, and business performance. He has previously served as Chair of the Chancellor’s Council of Economic Advisers. In this new role, he will dedicate one day a week without pay for 12 months to work with [...]

Last week, Aldi announced a pay increase for its store assistants, raising their hourly rate to at least £13.02 nationwide, making it the first supermarket in the UK to surpass the £13 mark. Within the M25, pay will start at £14.35 per hour, increasing to £14.66 with length of service. All employees, regardless of age, will receive the same minimum rate — significantly higher than the new National Living Wage of £12.21. This move builds on Aldi’s existing policy of paid breaks, valued at approximately £1,425 per year for the average store colleague, further cementing its position as a leader [...]