Showing results 244–252 of 519
Efficiency is undoubtedly crucial to staying competitive. For SME businesses, the B2B buying processes can sometimes be so lengthy that they negatively impact business operations and the product or service you're selling.
Harvey Holloway
3 February, 2025
Business West
On the fifth anniversary of Brexit, the BCC is calling on the Government to use its planned EU reset to achieve concrete change and help drive UK economic growth. Research by the BCC’s Insight Unit has shown that SME exporters have faced an uphill struggle to sell goods and services in Europe as paperwork and costs have ballooned: Two fifths (41%) of exporters disagree the Brexit deal is helping them grow sales. Only 14% of exporters think the deal is helping them to grow. Almost half (46%) of businesses want the Government to make it easier for UK staff to work in the EU. More than a third (37%) want a reduction in VAT requirements to export to the EU. And a quarter (25%) want the UK to align with rules and regulations with the EU in key goods sectors. Trade with the EU is covered by the Trade and Co-operation Agreement (TCA) which was agreed on Christmas Eve in 2020, almost 11 months after the UK left. It allows tariff-free trade with the EU but requires British and EU firms to produce documentation and paperwork for all shipments. Services access is also limited by rules on business mobility. Companies say the biggest barriers to exporting to the EU are customs procedures and documentation (45), export documentation (39%), regulations and standards (35%) and tariffs (33%). Awareness of upcoming changes in trade rules and regulations being made by either the UK or the EU are also alarmingly low, with more than three quarters of firms knowing no details of much of the legislation. This includes knowledge of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), Safety and Security Declaration Requirements and new rules on business-to-business movements of parcels to Northern Ireland.
Fiona Parsons
31 January, 2025
Business West
Today, the Growing Together Alliance, a coalition of six leading employers’ groups - including Business West - representing the leading city regions of England, will release the Connected Clusters report, outlining a bold and comprehensive strategy for the Chancellor to encourage interconnected, inclusive economic growth across the UK.
Amy Drummond
30 January, 2025
Business West
The world of international trade is transforming. As technology advances, so do the tools and processes that businesses use to trade with global markets. At Business West, we are proud to be at the forefront of pioneering digital solutions that simplify and enhance trade procedures for exporters, importers and freight forwarders alike. Digital innovation Business West has a history of embracing innovative technology to better serve our customers. Our leadership in digital trade and our commitment to providing forward-thinking solutions have been recognised by a national Best Industry Champion award.
Fiona Parsons
29 January, 2025
Business West
The beginning of 2025 is a time when some significant projects which will have a real impact on the future success of our local economy are reaching a critical moment, when tricky questions will be posed and clear answers required.
Ian Bell
22 January, 2025
Business West
Innovation is the lifeblood of any thriving economy, driving progress and fostering sustainable growth. Innovate UK Business Growth, delivered by Business West in the South West, understands the challenges that innovative companies face in navigating the complexities of the market.
Tara Gillam
15 January, 2025
Business West
In the ever-evolving world of business, we often talk about shaping the future - innovating, planning ahead, and staying competitive. But what if one of the most impactful ways to build the future isn’t in a boardroom, or behind a computer screen? What if it’s in a school, sitting across from a young person who needs your guidance?
Susie Parker
14 January, 2025
Business West
As 2025 begins, the global trade landscape is a mix of opportunities and challenges. On one hand, recent agreements like the EU-Mercosur deal and the UK joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) signals a move towards liberalisation and co-operation. On the other, growing protectionist policies raise concerns about increased tariffs and potential barriers to trade.
Fiona Parsons
13 January, 2025
Business West
The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) from Business West provides a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in the South West as 2024 came to a close. This report offers valuable insights into the current economic landscape and serves as a barometer for business sentiment in the region.
Anonymous Author
8 January, 2025
Business West
