Horsemeat scandal prompts FSB to encourage shoppers to trade local
Horsemeat scandal prompts FSB to encourage shoppers to trade local
Many FSB members that own butchers shops have reported a dramatic increase in sales following the discovery of horsemeat in some UK food products. The FSB now wants consumers to shop in their independent retailers and has re-launched its Keep Trade Local campaign to highlight the importance of small firms to the local community. Read the press release and coverage on the Huffington Post. The FSB is encouraging people to send images of them using independent retailers on Twitter and Facebook, and is hosting the images on Tumblr.
Overcoming the challenges of starting a business in a rural area
Mike Cherry, National Policy Chairman, took part in a Q&A on the Guardian’s Small Business Network this week to discuss the issues that face small rural businesses. He talked about the need for better broadband access and transport links to ensure rural firms could compete on a level playing field with urban businesses.
Real Time Information is coming
Read the FSB’s comments in the Financial Mail, Mail on Sunday and the Daily Telegraph on the need for better communication from HMRC on payroll changes due to come into force from April. Find out more about Real Time Information and view the survey results. You can also take part in a Twitter Q&A with HMRC on Tuesday 19 Feb between 2.30-3.30pm. You can send questions to #RTIq
Relax rules around NEST, Government told
The Work and Pensions Select Committee has told the Government that is should relax rules which would limit the number of small firms that could use its default scheme for pensions auto-enrolment – the National Employee Savings Trust (NEST). The FSB recently wrote to the Pensions Minister asking for changes to be made to the scheme. Read coverage in the Daily Telegraph and the Evening Standard
Help the HSE with health and safety.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) wants to speak to businesses in the service, manufacturing and construction sectors about their experiences of health and safety in relation to the employment of young workers (18 and under). This will involve a brief telephone interview to answer some key research questions. Contact Jo Bowen to find out more.
Do you have a story to tell?
The FSB is on the lookout for new case studies to speak to print and broadcast media on a range of topics, such as the business climate, access to finance through the banks or other providers, late payment, exporting and your use of technology. Email your story.
Have your say on the issue of the day
The ‘Voice of Small Business' Survey Panel is growing. The data gained is not only used in the media, but in Parliament to give strength to arguments put forward on behalf of members, and to ensure the interests of small firms are at the top of the political agenda. FSB members can have their voice heard by signing up to the survey panel. Find out more.
