LisaWhitehouse

The UK is undeniably facing a significant cost of living crisis. While inflation has dipped to 3.4% in February 2024, this still means everyday essentials are considerably more expensive than a year ago. This situation presents a complex challenge, both for individuals and businesses. Understanding the Causes: Several factors have contributed to the current situation: Global Disruptions: The pandemic's lingering effects on supply chains, coupled with the war in Ukraine, have disrupted energy supplies and essential goods. Energy Price Hikes: The sharp rise in global energy prices has significantly impacted energy bills, a major contributor to expenses. Economically inactive work [...]

The Post Office Horizon scandal serves as a stark reminder of the ethical considerations surrounding the technology we rely on. This case, centred on faulty software that led to the wrongful targeting of postmasters, highlights the importance of scepticism and data oversight in the age of automation and our increasing reliance on technology. The Ethical Lapse The Horizon scandal exposed a disturbing trend: prioritising a "positive spin" on a flawed system over acknowledging its glitches. This resulted in severe consequences for innocent people. As Ian Pay, Head of Data Analytics and Tech at ICAEW, points out, "the Horizon case is [...]

In the tumultuous landscape of today's economy, businesses are grappling with unprecedented challenges, exacerbated by the far-reaching impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. As an established Insolvency Practice, DMC Recovery has been at the forefront, assisting Directors in navigating these turbulent times. The year 2024 looms with a sobering projection: an estimated 30,000 businesses are expected to fail, marking the highest number since the global financial crisis of 2009. Behind these staggering statistics lie countless stories of Directors feeling isolated and overwhelmed, unable to share their concerns with trusted advisors or loved ones. At DMC Recovery, we recognise the weight of [...]

As an insolvency practice we've keenly observed the ebbs and flows shaping the landscape of our high streets. The recent announcement of The Body Shop calling in administrators serves as a poignant moment for reflection, illuminating the dance between tradition and transformation in the retail realm. The metamorphosis of the UK retail environment has been seismic, propelled by the tides of evolving consumer preferences and the relentless march of e-commerce. Even stalwarts like The Body Shop, renowned for their unwavering commitment to ethical beauty, find themselves navigating choppy waters amidst this whirlwind of change. A convergence of factors has contributed [...]

As we approach the eagerly awaited US Presidential Elections in November, it's essential for UK businesses to stay informed about potential global implications. The outcome of the elections can send ripples across the international business landscape, impacting economies worldwide. One of the primary areas of concern is the economic policy direction the newly elected president will take. Shifts in trade agreements, taxation policies, and regulatory frameworks can significantly influence the UK's trading environment. A president's stance on international trade can have a domino effect on the global economy, potentially influencing the financial stability of UK businesses. Businesses need to be [...]