Welsh Business Confidence Falls in February
Business confidence in Wales dropped to 29% in February, below the UK average of 44%. Welsh firms remain focused on growth through training, new products, and market expansion despite the dip.
Business confidence in Wales dropped to 29% in February, below the UK average of 44%. Welsh firms remain focused on growth through training, new products, and market expansion despite the dip.
Iain Mansfield, chief executive of Principality Building Society, has been appointed as the new chair of CBI Wales for a two-year term, succeeding Alison Orrells. Mansfield brings extensive business experience and aims to strengthen CBI Wales as the leadi
Belfast-based GM Marketing has acquired Lisburn's Pitman Berryhill, strengthening its specialist food channel presence across Ireland. The deal creates new brand development opportunities while retaining all existing staff roles.
Retail giant Frasers Group has acquired a 5.77% stake in athletic apparel manufacturer Puma, worth over €5.5 million, plus additional put option shares valued at €187 million.
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RecommendedThe Hook and Line seafood restaurant at Royal William Yard in Plymouth has entered liquidation, owing over £355,000 to creditors including staff, tax authorities, and a Covid bounce back loan.
Allan Leighton, chair of supermarket giant Asda, says government policies are creating barriers to business growth not of their own making, criticizing Labour's approach compared to previous administrations.
County Durham's NB Tyres has invested nearly £500,000 to expand operations, opening two new service centres in Newcastle and Middlesbrough, and creating 13 permanent roles, bringing total staff to over 50.
Iceland supermarket has ended its 10-year trademark dispute with the country Iceland, with CEO Richard Walker announcing a goodwill discount for Icelandic people instead of further legal fees.
Brewdog has angered investors by offering free birthday beer after selling the company, leaving many with worthless investments following 38 UK pub closures.
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RecommendedHenry Nuttall Ltd, a British fish and chip equipment company founded in 1865, has been rescued from administration and is now part of the RGM Leeds Group, securing its 161-year legacy.
Manchester-based criminal defence firm Olliers Solicitors celebrates its biggest fee month ever and reveals plans for team growth following a successful first year at its new headquarters.
Newcastle-based shipping insurance giant NorthStandard reveals premium income could rise over 5% to $930m despite intense global geopolitical tensions and market volatility affecting marine insurers worldwide.
JD Wetherspoon founder Sir Tim Martin argues that rising minimum wage is reducing investment and job vacancies, harming living standards and hitting hospitality sector hard.
Rounton Coffee, an independent North Yorkshire roastery, is expanding its national reach following significant investment in energy-efficient equipment and increased production capacity.
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RecommendedSeventeen wedding professionals from the West Midlands were commended at the 4th Nation's Wedding Awards 2026 in Birmingham, celebrating excellence across various categories in the industry.
Somerset County Cricket Club announces its largest commercial agreement in 150 years, extending partnership with Cooper Associates Group until 2030 season.
The Very Group has finalized a major refinancing deal, extending debt facilities to 2029 and beyond, positioning the Liverpool-based home retail giant for future growth under new owner Carlyle.
Northumbrian Water, Bellway, James Burrell, and Business Enterprise Fund announce key promotions and appointments, highlighting the region's commitment to apprenticeships and talent development.
Euro Car Parks has been hit with a £473,000 fine by the CMA for failing to respond to legal information notices, marking the first use of new enforcement powers.
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RecommendedBusiness and civic leaders in Birmingham warn that the city's tendency to self-deprecate risks losing investment to competitors, urging a more positive narrative.
Jamie Skelding, a director at Prime Accountants Group in Birmingham, reflects on his four-decade career journey, from exam struggles to leadership, highlighting technological evolution in accounting.
Lloyds Bank's latest Business Barometer reveals a slight dip in overall business confidence to 44% in January, though trading prospects remain strong and hiring plans improve.
Several North East companies including Sweeney Miller Law, Heel & Toe, Swinburne Maddison, Intasite and Harbro Electrical have announced significant new appointments and promotions this week.
New data reveals Yorkshire and Humber experienced a 9.9% decrease in insolvency activity in 2025, the second highest fall in the UK, though new business start-ups declined by 8.4%.
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RecommendedCotts Equine has been honoured as the Rural & Agricultural Business of the Year at the Swansea Bay Business Awards, celebrating its growth and innovative equine care services across South Wales.
London-based consultancy Black Castle Capital Partners has been honoured with the Global 100 2026 award for Best Venture Capital & Private Equity Business of the Year in the United Kingdom.
New R3 report reveals North East businesses show resilience with 9.3% drop in insolvency activity while start-ups increase by 3.3%, though challenges persist across sectors.
Olympic champion Sally Gunnell OBE will be keynote speaker at Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce's Women in Leadership Conference and Awards celebrating International Women's Day.
The 2026 Innovation Awards programme has been officially launched in Birmingham, with organisers preparing to announce a major national tech brand as new sponsor. The awards celebrate UK innovation across 18 categories.
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RecommendedNewcastle's Ryder Architecture celebrates 14% revenue growth to £36m while expanding international work and transitioning to employee ownership, despite profit challenges.