That's Business: July 2025

Wednesday, 23 July 2025

That's Food and Drink: How to Launch a Local Food and Drink Trail with Yo...

That's Food and Drink: How to Launch a Local Food and Drink Trail with Yo...: Creating a food and drink trail in your local town or suburb is a fantastic way to promote regional producers, support small businesses, and...

Tuesday, 22 July 2025

HMRC confirms joint and several liability: APSCo responds

Responding to the details in the draft Finance Bill 2025-26, Tania Bowers, Global Public Policy Director for the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo), told That's Business: “The details published in yesterday’s Finance Bill were generally as expected.

HMRC has clearly set its sights on preventing tax non-compliance, and fraud via umbrella companies are at the centre of its focus. HMRC has published draft legislation that will be introduced in April 2026 which puts the onus on recruitment firms through joint and several liability for PAYE taxes.

“For recruitment firms, now's the ideal time to prepare for the changes before they come into effect. During the consultation period, a few APSCo members expressed significant concerns around the legal implications, but there was a recognition the legislation would create extra administrative burdens for recruiters that engage umbrella companies.

“In particular, there are concerns as to the level of transparency that will be needed to protect recruitment firms.

"The guidance soon to be published by HMRC must outline not only its own approach, but also clear information to help staffing companies implement best practice strategies. The details published so far don’t provide recruiters with the additional tools to manage the new requirements; they simply put the responsibility on staffing firms to know the details of their umbrella supply chain, or face financial penalties.

“There are some measures that will help recruiters and umbrella companies, including the specification around the transition phases for directors and the prevention of ‘Phoenixism.’

"However, more is required. As APSCo has previously highlighted, licensing of the umbrella market and statutory codes of practice are needed to prevent fraud and equip those that are being tasked with tackling the issue with the appropriate resources to do so.

“The digitalisation of services that has been touted as a means of helping small businesses interact with HMRC is welcome news, though the implementation of this will be no easy task. This needs to be made readily available as soon as possible in order to help staffing firms prepare ahead of the changes to legislation.

“APSCo will continue to leverage its close relationship with HMRC to guide and inform members on the changes during the preparation period ahead of the April implementation.”

Wednesday, 16 July 2025

That's Food and Drink: How to Use Social Media and Memes for Free to Prom...

That's Food and Drink: How to Use Social Media and Memes for Free to Prom...: Whether you're running a cosy bakery, a stylish café, or a charming small hotel, social media is one of the most powerful tools you can ...

Tuesday, 15 July 2025

10% Decline in Tech Job Interest Among Future Business School Students

Interest in tech careers among prospective business school students has dropped from 39% in 2023 to 35% in 2024, according to a new report by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) – a 10% year-on-year decline.

These findings come from the latest Prospective Students Survey by GMAC – a report that identifies and measures the needs and preferences of aspiring students in management and business education.

Now in its 15th year, the report analyses data from 4,912 respondents across 147 countries, offering insights into evolving candidate decision-making to guide business school strategies.

Technology remains the third most attractive sector for future business school students. Consulting continues to lead as the most popular sector, with exactly half of all respondents considering it for a future career.

The remainder of the top five sectors include financial services (41%) in second place, investment banking and management (34%) in fourth, and consumer products (20%) in fifth.

Notably, there were significant gender and generational disparities in interest in tech careers. Among Millennial men, 45% were interested in a tech career, compared to 38% of Gen Z men. Meanwhile, only 34% of Millennial women and 29% of Gen Z women expressed interest in the technology sector.

“The recent dip in interest toward tech careers among prospective business students may reflect growing uncertainty in the sector,” says Nalisha Patel, Regional Director for the Americas and Europe at GMAC.

“With high-profile layoffs and the rapid evolution of AI disrupting traditional roles, many students are understandably cautious. While technology remains a dynamic and innovative field, the perceived instability is prompting future graduates to weigh their options more carefully as they seek long-term career security."

The research also identified key skill sets employers are seeking in business school graduates, with a growing emphasis on human-centric skills such as emotional intelligence and problem-solving, according to corporate recruiters.

The Graduate Management Admission Council is an international non-profit organisation representing over 200 business schools worldwide. It provides research and market insights to academic institutions and prospective graduate management students.

You can download the report GMAC 2025 Prospective Students Survey Summary Report here

https://tinyurl.com/mxrptbcp

https://www.gmac.com/

That's Food and Drink: UK Food Industry Leaders Reaffirm Critical Support...

That's Food and Drink: UK Food Industry Leaders Reaffirm Critical Support...: Over 50 top UK businesses, representing over 60% of the UK’s demand for soy, have reaffirmed their support for the Amazon Soy Moratorium (AS...

New guide urges leaders to ‘slump-proof’ their teams before holiday season hits

Everyone deserves a guilt-free holiday

With the summer holiday season looming, business leaders are being urged by leading people development company Insights to act now or risk their operations grind to a halt due to the well-known, but often unaddressed “summer slump.”

A new guide from global people development company Insights has been produced in response to previous research that workplace productivity can decline by up to 20% during the summer months, while project timelines can lengthen by 13%.

“Too many leaders plan for absence, not impact,” David Bowes, Head of People at Insights told That's Business.

“You’re not just losing a person for two weeks, you may be losing your team’s planner, your motivator, your quiet fixer. These personality gaps can derail performance if they’re not anticipated.”

To help leaders keep performance on track whilst ensuring employees can take a guilt-free, interruption-free break, Insights has released A Leader’s Guide to Combating the Summer Slowdown, a practical playbook for maintaining team momentum as headcounts fluctuate.

Key recommendations include:

• Don’t just fill seats - fill roles with the right personalities. Identify essential responsibilities and match cover to team strengths.

• Prevent burnout by planning workload balance. Avoid overburdening the few who remain.

• Clarify what’s critical. Set clear boundaries on what needs doing now, next, and later.

• Communicate the gaps. Let the team know what skills or behaviours will be missing during absences, who’s stepping up, and how others can support.

• Empower decision-making. Make sure authority and timelines are clear and pair less confident team members with peers for backup and reassurance.

“Slump-proofing the summer starts well before anyone checks in at the airport,” adds David.

“Smart leaders know the real risk isn’t people taking time off, because all employees are entitled to a guilt-free break with family and friends, but the lack of planning for how their absence shifts team dynamics and leaving team members underequipped.”

The downloadable guide also includes templates for communication planning, tips for building flexible cross-functional teams, and insight into aligning work to people’s natural strengths.

Download “A Leader’s Guide to Combating the Summer Slowdown” at the link below:-

https://www.insights.com/resources/how-to-combat-the-summer-slowdown/

Monday, 14 July 2025

Businesses under pressure: Research highlights leadership skills deficit in C-Suite

59% of leaders raise concerns around future C-Suite skills availability

Senior transformation roles expected to grow in demand amid market fluctuations

AI skills needed, with 87% of leaders predicting experience in artificial intelligence to be critical

A transformation of C-Suite capabilities is urgently needed, with companies fundamentally unprepared for what lies ahead over the next decade, amid growing uncertainty and market fluctuations. That’s according to new research from international recruitment firm Robert Half.

In its study, “Towards the C-Suite 2035”, the talent solutions expert found concerns around leadership skills, with 59% of UK C-Suite respondents reporting an increase in worries about finding suitable leaders for the next ten years, with transformation abilities in seemingly high demand and short supply.

The data shows experience in digital and workforce transformation will be absolutely vital in the coming years, with 79% of C-suite respondents highlighting digital expertise and 62% emphasising workforce transformation as key components of leadership teams.

Looking ahead to the next decade, the C-suite is painting a clear picture of the leadership qualities that will define success.

Resilience tops the list, with 75% of executives expecting it to be in high demand, followed closely by innovative thinking (67%) and agility (61%). More than half (56%) also see change management as a critical skill in navigating the road ahead. In response to these shifting priorities, new roles are emerging on the leadership horizon, by 2035, 78% of respondents anticipate the rise in importance of Chief Technology Transformation Officers, while 57% expect Chief Talent Transformation Officers to play a key role in shaping the future of work.

AI demand expected to grow

As organisations race toward a more automated future, AI expertise is quickly becoming a cornerstone of leadership. According to the report, 87% of C-suite leaders believe that knowledge of artificial intelligence will be essential by 2035.

But it's not just deep technical understanding that's in demand, the rise of low-code and no-code platforms means broader teams will need to develop practical, hands-on AI skills.

Reflecting this shift, 83% of executives expect the role of the Chief AI Officer to grow significantly in importance over the next decade, as businesses seek leaders who can bridge the gap between advanced technology and accessible innovation.

Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland at Robert Half, told That's Business: “Today executive leaders face a complex, rapidly evolving set of challenges, shaped by technological disruption, global instability, workforce dynamics and increasing stakeholder expectations.

“Transformation isn’t a buzzword anymore, it’s actually a job title. CTROs (Chief Transformation Officers) and transformation leads (VP/Director Technology and/or Talent Transformation) are now essential operators in the C-Suite or the extended top leadership team, not consultants waiting in the wings.

“Resilient and adaptable leadership will help navigate complex social and political issues while maintaining credibility and trust. In 2035, businesses which have embraced this journey will be better placed to compete and to survive.

“A leadership team which understands how to innovate, alongside a workforce which can deliver new ideas, will be strengthened by the strategic development of future talent. Seeds planted now will stand tall in 2035.”

https://www.roberthalf.com

That's Food and Drink: Recall Alert: Ritz Peanut Butter Sandwiches Mislab...

That's Food and Drink: Recall Alert: Ritz Peanut Butter Sandwiches Mislab...: On 8 July 2025, Mondelēz Global LLC, the maker of Ritz, issued a voluntary nationwide recall of four carton sizes of Ritz Peanut Butter Crac...

How Retailers Can Protect Their Stock from Young Opportunistic Thieves During the School Holidays

With the school holidays in full swing, many retailers see a noticeable uptick in footfall, especially from teenagers and schoolchildren with time on their hands.

While most young visitors are simply browsing or enjoying a bit of freedom, the holidays can unfortunately also bring a rise in opportunistic thefts from under-18s.

Retail theft is frustrating at any time, but it’s particularly sensitive when minors are involved. So how can shopkeepers and retail staff protect stock, maintain a welcoming environment, and still act responsibly when tackling the issue?

Here are some practical and ethical strategies to help safeguard your business during the holiday period:

1. Make Your Presence Known

A visible staff presence is one of the strongest deterrents to theft. Ensure team members are actively engaging with all customers, especially in quieter corners of the shop or near high-value goods. A friendly “Can I help you?” does more than offer service, it reminds would-be shoplifters they’re being noticed.

2. Review and Refresh CCTV Coverage

Make sure your CCTV system is:

Fully operational

Covers all key areas (including blind spots and exits)

Clearly signed and visible to visitors

Regular checks and signage reminding customers of surveillance can go a long way in discouraging theft. If your system is outdated, now’s the time to consider upgrading before problems arise.

3. Reposition High-Risk Stock

Items that are small, popular, or easy to conceal, such as cosmetics, accessories, tech items, or confectionery should be:

Kept closer to the tills

Placed behind counters

Displayed in locked or secured cabinets

This also applies to seasonal merchandise or trending products among teens.

4. Train Staff in Friendly Vigilance

Your team doesn’t need to turn into security guards, but they should know the signs of suspicious behaviour, such as:

Groups loitering without engaging with products

People entering with large bags or bulky clothing in warm weather

Repeated glancing around or avoiding eye contact

Encourage calm, non-accusatory interactions. A welcoming approach often disarms bad intentions and avoids escalation.

5. Work With Local Schools and Community Police

In some areas, community policing teams offer additional patrols during the holidays and may be happy to work with retailers. Establish a dialogue and share concerns early.

Likewise, developing a relationship with local schools can be helpful. If there’s a recurring problem involving specific pupils, schools often prefer to be informed discreetly to resolve the issue themselves.

6. Offer Alternatives – Don’t Just Assume the Worst

Sometimes, theft by minors stems from boredom, peer pressure, or financial hardship rather than malice. Consider:

Offering free or low-cost samples

Engaging younger visitors with friendly conversation

Providing a small, affordable ‘pocket money’ range to reduce temptation

It won’t prevent every incident, but a proactive, understanding approach can make a difference.

7. Stay Calm and Follow Procedure

If a theft occurs:

Do not physically confront the suspect unless absolutely necessary

Record CCTV footage

Report serious or repeated incidents to the police

Ensure your team knows what to do, including how to involve parents or guardians appropriately if a minor is involved.

Some Chambers of Commerce or local councils run a radio link system with shopkeepers all linked by radio to a central command point or the local police. If there's no such system in your town or district perhaps you should suggest that one is launched?

8. Don’t Let a Few Spoil It for Everyone

It’s easy to become defensive or suspicious when thefts increase, but remember, most young customers are respectful and often enthusiastic shoppers. Keeping your store friendly and inclusive is key to long-term trust and loyalty.

The school holidays are a brilliant time for shops to attract younger customers and families, but they also call for smart stock management and a bit more vigilance.

With the right balance of security, staff training, and community cooperation, retailers can protect their stock while still creating a welcoming environment for all.

After all, today’s teens could become tomorrow’s most loyal customers — if they’re treated with fairness and respect.

Wednesday, 9 July 2025

Government must work to avoid widening north-south divide in decentralised employment support, Localis warns

The government must ensure plans to decentralise employment support to help get Britain back to work don’t open up a north-south divide in regional economic performance, a new report from Localis advises.

The warning is contained in a new research report from the think-tank entitled ‘Guarantee of potential: place-based employment support within a new local policy ecosystem’ which analyses how councils and combined authorities should rise to the challenge of delivering the biggest reforms to employment support for a generation and help achieve a national long-term target of an 80% national employment rate.

The report authors claim although northern areas which have higher unemployment and levels of economic inactivity have used the power of their devolution deals to address sub-regional economic disparities, when southern counties with stronger economies and increased capacity implement their own devolved powers, there's a risk these regional gaps may widen.

Similarly, if revised funding formulas or political attention favour the country’s big cities, coastal, rural and post-industrial parts of the country risk having their unique employment support needs overlooked, the study points out.

Localis investigated in ‘Guarantee of Potential’, how decentralization of employment might be advantageously used for the benefit of a distinctly localist approach to tackling worklessness and in line with the government’s agenda for devolution, public service integration and commissioning reform.

Report author and senior Localis researcher, Callin McLinden, told That's Businesss: “With record levels of economic inactivity and expedited devolution frameworks, local government is being asked to tackle worklessness with more responsibility, but lacks either sufficient capacity or resources to do so with confidence.

“This report sets out a practical roadmap for transforming fragmented employment services into coherent, integrated, and place-based support systems; linking health, skills, and jobs in a locally tailored but nationally coordinated framework achieved through strategic design and procurement.

"But without proper investment in local capacity, long-term funding certainty, and shared governance between Whitehall and localities, the potential to reduce worklessness risks becoming perpetually stunted.”

Ayden Sims, CEO, AKG, added: “This report arrives at a pivotal moment, as the UK grapples with persistent economic inactivity and the need for more inclusive growth and offers a compelling case for enhanced local ownership, not as a theoretical ideal, but as a practical and necessary shift in how we design, fund, and deliver employment services.

“The findings underscore the value in empowering local authorities and strategic partnerships to lead the charge in tackling worklessness, particularly in communities that have been historically less well supported via previous approaches. It also flags the importance of having this future support strike the right balance between local empowerment and trust, alongside a consistent national offer, underpinned by strong accountability frameworks.

“What stands out most is the report’s emphasis on integration, between employment, health, and skills and the recognition that good work is not just an economic outcome, but a determinant of wellbeing. The insights drawn from trailblazer regions and emerging local models show that when local leaders are given the tools and trust to innovate, alongside the practical support to ensure their visions can be realised and delivered, they can build services that are more responsive, more inclusive, and ultimately more effective.”

https://www.localis.org.uk

That's Food and Drink: Warning to Small Businesses Over New Food Waste Re...

That's Food and Drink: Warning to Small Businesses Over New Food Waste Re...: Is this illegal? You'd better check Firms face fines for not separating food waste, a leading lawyer warns. Businesses could face fines ...

Looking for a VPN for your Business? Best VPN Services UK 2025: Top-Rated VPNs for Privacy, Streaming, and Speed

Looking for the best VPN service in 2025? Whether you're in the UK or travelling abroad, a virtual private network (VPN) can enhance your online privacy, unblock streaming content, and protect you on public Wi-Fi.

Tests were run on dozens of providers to bring you the top VPNs available this year.

Below is a breakdown of the five best VPN services for UK users in 2025, based on performance, security, value for money, and ease of use.

1. NordVPN – Best Overall VPN for 2025

Price: From £2.69/month

Trial/Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee

Free Offer: Up to 4 months free + £50 Amazon voucher (UK users)

Excellent speeds with NordLynx protocol

Unblocks all major streaming platforms

Advanced security including post-quantum encryption

Panama-based and independently audited no-logs policy

Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux

Drawbacks: Limited torrent-specific servers and higher renewal prices if auto-renew isn't disabled.

Best deal: Save 76% on a 2-year plan and get 4 months free + £50 Amazon gift card.

2. Surfshark – Best Budget VPN for UK Users

Price: From £1.49/month

Trial/Guarantee: 7-day free trial + 30-day money-back guarantee

Unlimited devices

Fast speeds and strong streaming performance

Advanced features like Camouflage Mode and NoBorders

Available on all major platforms including routers and smart TVs

Drawbacks: Slightly cluttered interface and no post-quantum encryption.

Starter plan now just £1.49/month with 3 months free included.

3. ExpressVPN – Easiest to Use

Price: From £3.98/month

Trial/Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee

One-click connect, intuitive interface

Wide streaming access across 105+ countries

Top-tier security features including quantum-resistant encryption

Excellent customer support with 24/7 live chat

Drawbacks: Pricier than rivals and fewer bonus features at lower tiers.

Get 4 months free with the current 2-year plan.

4. Proton VPN – Best for Privacy and Global Access

Price: From $3.59/month

Free Version: Available with 10GB/month data cap

Trial/Guarantee: 30-day refund policy

Exceptional privacy protections

Secure Core double-hop routing

Port forwarding and P2P support

Access to Proton Mail, Drive, and Pass with Unlimited plan

Drawbacks: Customer support not 24/7 and slower OpenVPN speeds.

5. PrivadoVPN Free – Best Free VPN Option

Price: Free or from £1.11/month (paid plans)

Free Plan Includes: 10GB/month data, 13 server locations

No-cost option with essential VPN features

Based in Switzerland, with a no-logs policy

Streaming and torrenting supported on free tier

Drawbacks: Limited data, no ad-blocker, and no third-party audit.

How to Choose the Best VPN in 2025

When selecting a VPN, UK users should consider:

Privacy and encryption protocols

Streaming capability (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc.)

Speed and server performance

App usability across devices

Customer support and refund policy

Verdict: What’s the Best VPN Service in the UK for 2025?

Best Overall: NordVPN

Best Value: Surfshark

Best for Privacy: Proton VPN

Easiest to Use: ExpressVPN

Best Free VPN: PrivadoVPN Free

For anyone in the UK looking for reliable privacy, streaming access, and safe browsing, these are the top VPNs to consider in 2025.

https://go.nordvpn.net/aff_c?offer_id=15&aff_id=126827&url_id=902

https://go.expressvpn.com/c/6364313/1462856/16063

https://go.getproton.me/SH1iL

Over Half of UK Office Workers Suffer with Back Pain Due to Poor Workstation Setup, Survey Reveals

Fellowes UK, a leading specialist in manufacturing ergonomic office equipment, established in 1917, has released concerning findings from their online survey of over 1,000 UK office workers, revealing failings in workspace ergonomics and employee wellbeing.

According to the survey, only one in three UK office workers believe their employers are getting the basics right when it comes to desk work and employee health.

Even more worryingly 27% of survey respondents also reported their workplaces have never undertaken a workstation risk assessment.

Darryl Brunt, who is the Sales & Marketing Director at Fellowes UK & Ireland, expressed serious concerns about these survey results, telling That's Business: "These statistics are really deeply troubling. UK businesses have a legal duty of care towards their employees' wellbeing and must provide workstation risk assessments to ensure their workforces are comfortable and properly supported at their desks."

The survey reveals a disturbing trend in workplace related pain, with 51% of office workers experiencing back pain when sitting at their workstation. To help reduce back pain while sitting at their workstation in the office, 42% of respondents believe additional back support would be beneficial.

The research also uncovered that office workers personal lives are being impacted by their workstation related pain, with over a fifth of respondents experiencing physical pain whilst making everyday movements, requiring regular pain relief medication to cope.

Findings indicate office workers aged 35 - 44 years old are more likely to take time off than any other age group, due to pain caused by their workstations.

When hybrid office workers work from home, many don’t work at a desk, the survey highlighted. In fact, 21% work from any available surface and 19% work from the sofa. Back pain was reported to be a bigger issue for those working from home, with 59% of respondents sharing that this is their biggest source of discomfort or physical pain, due to their work set-up.

"These are shocking figures that need to be brought to the attention of UK business owners and HR departments," said Darryl Brunt.

"This issue must be addressed now to help reduce workstation related discomfort and pain. In turn, this will help businesses reduce employee absence rates whilst boosting morale and productivity across their workforces."

Only 22% of survey respondents believe their employers are investing in the right ergonomic equipment to support employee health. When given the right ergonomic equipment, 89% of office workers shared that they noticed a positive impact on their health, motivation and productivity levels.

Darryl Brunt emphasised the importance of providing adequate workstation equipment: "By carrying out thorough workstation risk assessments, UK businesses can gain insights into the exact equipment each employee requires to feel supported at their desk, allowing them to be as comfortable and productive as possible while they work."

Fellowes UK continues to champion workplace wellbeing through its range of ergonomic solutions designed to support healthier working environments.

For more workstation research findings, download the whitepaper here:-https://www.fellowes.com/uk/en/marketing/pg/worklife-coach-ergonomics

That's Food and Drink: Matthews Cotswold Flour Named One of Britain's Top...

That's Food and Drink: Matthews Cotswold Flour Named One of Britain's Top...: Bertie Matthews and some milled flour Matthews Cotswold Flour has been rightfully recognised as one of Britain's top 25 regional produce...

Monday, 7 July 2025

That's Food and Drink: Why Shrinking Portions and Downgrading Ingredients...

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