Despite widespread claims of ‘email fatigue’ amongst many marketers, effective email marketing continues to deliver results. Researchers at Emarsys have found that 81% of small and medium-sized businesses use email marketing as their main customer acquisition channel, with 80% of these same businesses also using email as their main customer retention channel. So, rather than seeing email as something which is ‘old school’, and overlooked in favour of newer channels, see it as

As the draft legislation for the Finance Bill is laid out, the NFU is urging the government to look at its alternative ‘clawback’ solution to the family farm tax to prevent farmers – the food producers of this country – becoming collateral damage from the planned reforms. The government has outlined plans to hold a technical consultation on the draft legislation, including on inheritance tax, to ensure it ‘works as intended’. This is a common process in the development of a F

In family businesses, trust isn’t just a virtue—it’s the cornerstone of success. While strategy, financial discipline, and innovation all play critical roles, it is trust—deep, often unspoken—that underpins the resilience, cohesion, and longevity of family-run enterprises. Unlike corporate environments where contracts, formal hierarchies and performance metrics define relationships, family businesses often operate within a more informal framework. Decisions are influenced not

Navigating the intricate landscape of a family business is a journey filled with both rewarding milestones and formidable challenges. Among the most daunting of these challenges is initiating and engaging in difficult conversations. These discussions often unearth past traumas or unresolved issues, making them particularly sensitive and complex. However, addressing these topics is essential for the health and longevity of both the family and the business. The Reluctance To En

With 80% of UK SMEs classified as family-owned and SMEs contributing 60% of UK employment and 48% of business turnover, it has never been more important to develop and maintain a strong market position. Niki Sterling , a multi-channel growth specialist who excels in identifying hidden pockets of growth and defining distinctive strengths within businesses, shares her insights on why crafting your competitive advantage is essential for long-term success. For family businesses,

Business property relief (BPR) - and agricultural property relief (APR), together APR/BPR - were very valuable exemptions from UK inheritance tax (IHT). It was announced in Budget 2024 that BPR/APR will be reformed from 6 April 2026 and the 100% rate of relief for qualifying business and agricultural assets will be available for the first £1m of combined agricultural and business property but will be reduced to 50% thereafter. Laura Cullinane, Private Client & Tax Senior As

Those with family assets to protect are keen to ensure that they pass down the bloodline rather than face claims from a spouse, which may involve other family members if they too hold shares. Where the couple's assets are in excess of their respective needs, the starting point is a 50:50 share of the marital assets. In order to meet a spouse's claim, the Family Court has the power to order a sale of a family-owned company (if owned wholly by one or both spouses) or a sale of

Family businesses often stand out for their unique blend of personal relationships and professional ambitions. While this dynamic can create a strong foundation of trust and commitment, it can also lead to conflicts that threaten both family harmony and business success. The key to navigating these challenges lies in effective conflict resolution strategies that turn potential stumbling blocks into opportunities for growth and improvement. Common Sources of Conflict in Family

The UK Budget 2024 has introduced significant reforms to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) within the Inheritance Tax (IHT) framework, creating major implications for British farmers. APR has long been a vital tool for enabling family farms to pass to the next generation with reduced tax burdens. However, the upcoming changes mean that larger farming estates could face higher IHT liabilities, potentially threatening their financial sustainability. These reforms have already

Tough conversations are part of any business, but when family is involved, they can be even more complex and charged with emotion. In a family business, discussing finances, roles, and succession planning can be difficult because, in addition to business interests, personal relationships are on the line. However, when handled correctly, these challenging discussions can become a way to grow, create stronger bonds, and to becoming a more resilient business. In family business,

Deloitte Global has released the fourth edition of the Global Future of Cyber survey, which found that cybersecurity is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of many organisations’ growth strategies and business plans amidst today’s advanced and complex threat landscape. The findings from Deloitte Global’s largest cyber-related survey to date show how decision-makers are shifting their responses to cyber threats. Among other strategies, businesses are increasing the responsibil

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, Stobo Castle Health Spa stands as a majestic symbol of history, luxury, and rejuvenation and is now recognised as one of the most renowned destination spas in the UK. The story of Stobo Castle’s transformation into a wellness retreat is one of vision, perseverance, and a deep respect for the history that has shaped it. Paul Andrews spoke to Stephen Winyard and his wife Mandy, the current owners of Stobo Castle and the next

Alina Timofeeva, a board member for the British Computer Society, has expressed deep concern over the recent UK Budget's potential impact on small businesses, particularly regarding AI security, Cyber security, and innovation. "The increased tax burden on small businesses will inevitably lead to reduced investment in critical areas like AI security, Cyber security and innovation," Timofeeva warned. "This could leave them more vulnerable to Cyber attacks, which are on the rise

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month draws attention to the growing importance of digital security, new research reveals that cybersecurity is being neglected by UK CEOs, posing significant risks to businesses. A survey conducted by compliance training provider Skillcast found that only 6% of CEOs list cybersecurity as a top priority, ranking it ninth out of twelve major regulatory concerns. Despite the increasing frequency of cyberattacks and data breaches, many CEOs continue t

Family businesses are the lifeblood of many economies around the world. From local stores and small enterprises to global corporations like Walmart or Tata Group, these businesses not only drive innovation and growth but also reflect a unique blend of personal and professional values. At the heart of family businesses are the foundational family values that define their culture, guide decision-making, and influence their longevity. Family Values As The Bedrock In family busin

The James Donaldson Group, one of Scotland’s longest-standing family businesses, has grown from a small sawmill in Fife into a diversified group of companies that are leaders in timber distribution, manufacturing, and construction. Over its 160+ year history, the company has not only evolved with the times but has also managed to stay true to its roots—a testament to its ability to adapt while remaining grounded in family values. Paul Andrews spoke to Michael Donaldson, Chair

Bridgman Furniture, a name synonymous with luxury and quality, has carved out a distinguished place in the furniture industry over decades. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs, Bridgman's journey from a modest beginning to a celebrated brand offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of fine furniture making.  Paul Andrews spoke to the third generation CEO, Alex Bridgman, to find out more. The story of Bridgman Furniture begins in the early 197

At RoniB's Kitchen, they aim to bring products that feature the bold and complex flavours of the Philippines. All of their products are lovingly recreated from family recipes and for Roni, who founded the business, her own memories of home. Made with the best local and Southeast Asian ingredients, their products are all-natural and free from artificial flavourings, colourings and preservatives. Paul Andrews spoke to Roni to find out more. The business was founded in 2017 sta

Nestled in the picturesque Borders of Scotland, Thorburn Group has established itself as a prominent name in the construction and civil engineering sectors, delivering quality steel frame buildings and fabrication services to agricultural, industrial, and commercial industries. Paul Andrews spoke to Euan Thorburn to find out more. Thorburn Group has a rich history spanning several decades, the company has not only contributed to the development of the region but has also demo

Almost half of companies (46) in the FTSE 100 made prior year adjustments to their previously reported climate and sustainability metrics this year, according to analysis by Deloitte. Deloitte’s analysis looked at the climate and sustainability disclosures in the most recently published annual and/or sustainability reports as of 31 December 2023. Of the restatements made, 89% related to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) metrics, with the remainder (11%) comprised of a variety of