Category Archives: Liz Barclay

                 Half of degree courses fail to deliver minimum wage careers For generations, young people were told that university was the surest route to a better life. Now a growing number are questioning whether that promise still holds true. A new report suggests that graduates on nearly half of all degree courses are earningContinue reading “University dream turns into £50,000 debt nightmare”

                 The collapse of major contractor Ardmore Construction is a stark warning for Britain’s construction industry. While the headlines focus on one large company, the real fallout could hit hundreds of small and micro businesses waiting for payments, relying on live projects and carrying the financial risk of delayed work. New powers under theContinue reading “Big contractor goes bust – now small firms fear unpaid bills”

                 Restaurants may look packed, but behind the scenes many are fighting for survival. Rising taxes, soaring energy bills, higher wages and stubborn inflation are squeezing already tiny margins, leaving even award-winning chefs shutting their doors. Hospitality bosses warn that unless ministers act on VAT and business rates, Britain risks losing not just restaurantsContinue reading “Busy tables, empty profits as hospitality crisis deepens”

                 TikTok crackdown threatens youth-driven firms and local brands The Prime Minister’s planned ban on social media for under-16s is being welcomed by many parents, but small businesses are now asking what it means for them. Thousands of micro firms rely on TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat to reach younger customers, build local buzz andContinue reading “Under-16 social media ban could hit small businesses hard”

                 Delivery apps were once seen as a lifeline for restaurants, cafés and takeaways. Increasingly, many independent operators see them as part of the problem. With commissions often taking 25% to 35% of every order, small hospitality businesses are finding themselves busier than ever but making less money. As platforms expand into “super-apps” thatContinue reading “Delivery apps are eating Britain’s independent restaurants”