HLAS

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 [...]

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has begun consultations on two important changes coming into force under the new Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 (DUAA). The consultations focus on: Recognised legitimate interest – a brand new lawful basis for handling personal information. Data protection complaints – new requirements for all organisations to have a process in place for handling complaints. Recognised legitimate interest This new lawful basis is separate from the existing “legitimate interests” ground and allows organisations to use personal information more confidently for certain pre-approved situations. These include: Crime prevention and public security. Safeguarding and emergencies. Sharing information [...]

The UK government is under renewed financial strain after long-term borrowing costs rose to their highest point in a generation. The yield on 30-year government bonds (gilts) has climbed to 5.72% – a level not seen since 1998. For the government, this makes borrowing significantly more expensive and increases the pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to find additional revenue through taxation ahead of the Budget later this year. For businesses, tighter public finances could directly influence future tax and spending choices. Why borrowing costs matter Governments raise money by issuing bonds to investors, committing to repay the amount in future [...]

After three years of losses, Royal Mail has reported a return to profit under its new owner, Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky. Although the £12m profit (before redundancy costs) is relatively small compared to the £336m loss the previous year, it represents a significant turning point for a business that has been grappling with falling demand, increased costs, and reputational challenges. Royal Mail’s journey offers plenty of insight into what it takes for a business to adapt and progress in difficult trading conditions. Here are six takeaways. 1. Focus on Growth Opportunities Letter volumes continue to decline (down 4% in the [...]