HLAS

Almost 500 UK employers have been fined a total of £10.2 million for failing to pay the National Minimum Wage correctly, according to the latest government figures. Following investigations by HMRC, around 42,000 workers have now received back pay totalling £6 million. The list of employers spans businesses of all sizes and sectors, including retail, hospitality, childcare, and manufacturing. Several are well-known household names, demonstrating that even established organisations can inadvertently breach the rules. The Importance of Compliance Employers who underpay staff must repay the shortfall and may face financial penalties of up to 200% of the arrears (capped at [...]

The government has announced a significant change to how UK regulators operate, with the aim of making them more accountable and focused on supporting business growth. From last week, regulators now have a stronger growth duty, meaning they are expected to balance their oversight responsibilities with helping businesses invest, innovate, and expand. The reform is intended to ensure regulation remains proportionate and does not hinder economic activity. A new public dashboard of regulator performance will also be introduced. This GOV.UK site, updated quarterly, will consolidate performance data and provide a channel for businesses to give feedback directly to government. Business [...]

Discussions around Generation Z (those born roughly after 1996) and the workplace often make headlines, sometimes casting younger employees as disruptors of traditional office norms. Generational differences are nothing new, but if not managed effectively, they can lead to conflict that harms both staff and business performance. When handled well, however, these differences can harness the strengths of every generation, fostering a more innovative, resilient, and productive workplace. What’s Changing Many employers are observing a shift in workplace values. Younger workers often prioritise flexibility, mental health, and meaningful work, while older colleagues may be influenced by more traditional expectations around [...]

Official data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that UK government borrowing rose to £20.2 billion in September, marking the highest level for that month in five years. The figures highlight the mounting fiscal challenges facing the Chancellor as preparations continue ahead of next month’s Budget. Borrowing — which represents the shortfall between government expenditure and tax income — was £1.6 billion higher than in September last year. According to the ONS, while tax and National Insurance receipts increased, this was outweighed by higher public spending, particularly due to rising debt interest payments and inflation-linked costs. Impact on [...]

Small businesses across the UK are being encouraged to take straightforward, practical measures to safeguard themselves against the increasing number of online threats — and a new free toolkit from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) aims to make that process simpler than ever. The Cyber Action Toolkit, launched this week at the NCSC’s Annual Review, provides tailored guidance designed to help sole traders, micro businesses and small organisations boost their cyber security. According to the NCSC’s latest annual review, every organisation with a digital presence is a potential target for criminal cyber attackers. NCSC CEO, Dr Richard Horne, has [...]

Matthew Taylor CBE, author of the influential Taylor Review of Modern Working Practices, has been named the first Chair of the newly established Fair Work Agency – an organisation set to transform how employment rights are enforced across the UK. Launching in April 2026, the Agency will serve as a single point of contact for both workers and employers. According to government data, around 900,000 UK workers have their holiday pay withheld each year, while nearly 20% of minimum wage employees are paid less than they are legally entitled to. The Fair Work Agency will have enhanced powers to investigate [...]

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has confirmed that Google has been designated with strategic market status (SMS) for its general search and search advertising services – marking a significant milestone in how the UK regulates major technology companies. This announcement follows an extensive investigation and consultation, which concluded that Google holds substantial and entrenched market power in both general search and search advertising. It’s estimated that more than 90% of searches in the UK take place on Google’s platform. The new designation does not accuse Google of any wrongdoing, nor does it introduce immediate changes. However, it grants the [...]

Running your own business often means juggling a lot - and for many, that includes childcare. With autumn school breaks rapidly approaching, HMRC is reminding working families that the Tax-Free Childcare scheme can be a good way to make some savings. What’s on offer Through the scheme, you can get up to £2,000 a year toward childcare costs for each child up to the age of 11, or up to £4,000 (up to the age of 16) if your child is disabled. The government adds £2 for every £8 you pay into your childcare account - and you can use [...]

Airbnb has launched a new £1 million “Best of British” fund, supported by VisitBritain, to help communities and small tourism businesses transform local customs and traditions into memorable visitor experiences. The fund, which offers grants of up to £100,000, aims to support local businesses in developing experiences that celebrate Britain’s culture, heritage and creativity – from centuries-old customs such as maypole dancing and cheese rolling, to regional food, music and arts events. This initiative comes in response to research indicating that, although many holidaymakers are eager to discover authentic local experiences, half of UK adults have never participated in a [...]

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published proposals to reform the veterinary market. While the review focuses on veterinary businesses, its findings offer valuable insights for companies of all types – particularly regarding transparency, communication, and customer confidence. What’s happeningThe CMA’s investigation found that many pet owners struggle to understand what they are paying for when visiting the vet. Prices are often unclear, comparisons are difficult, and making complaints can be challenging when things go wrong. The market has also evolved significantly in recent years. Independent practices have been acquired by larger corporate groups, yet many clients are unaware [...]