There is a split in economic outlook between areas which voted to remain in or to leave the EU, a survey of small firms has revealed. Companies in areas which primarily backed Brexit have been consistently more optimistic than those […]

British companies have shrugged off fears of rising protectionism and are feeling optimistic about global growth, pushing deal expectations to a record high. In research published by EY on the day that Sainsbury’s and Asda coincidentally are set to detail […]

The heavily criticised Apprenticeship Levy has come under fresh fire a year after its introduction with manufacturers demanding a government summit to fix they system they say needs “fundamental” reform. Research by EEF, the trade body, says 95pc of manufacturers […]

The collapse of broker Beaufort Securities last month has given its rivals a boost following a feeding frenzy for its clients, new research shows. Beaufort’s customers were plunged into uncertainty after the broker went bust in March, prompting a slew […]

Britain’s grocery sector has been embroiled in an enduring price war, as the rise of online shopping and German discounters revolutionise Britain’s retail landscape. The “big four” grocer’s stranglehold on the market has been waning. Aldi and Lidl’s bargain-focused, no-frills, […]

Miller Homes will report a 22pc jump in its pre-tax profits for the last year on Monday as forward sales for its properties hit record highs. The company said that “favourable market conditions” had helped boost the business during the […]

British and European steel makers are bracing for a fresh crisis in the industry unless the US backs down from its protectionist stance and extends an exemption on import tariffs. The US granted temporary relief to European producers from 25pc […]

Giant index funds have enormous clout in shareholder votes and company directors underestimate them at their peril, BlackRock chief Larry Fink has warned. The billionaire investment chief said index funds – which hold $11.9 trillion of equities globally, around 18pc […]

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has awarded a £40m contract to 17 companies to monitor its cyber defences as it seeks to strengthen its online security in the wake of a series of high-profile attacks. The companies, which include Deloitte, […]

John Vincent, the Leon boss, has launched new Asian fast-food concept Tuk Shop, claiming it will be a “second engine” of growth for his company. The pop-up opens on Monday in London, offering “the greatest hits” of Thai cuisine, from […]