About

Ben Lobel was the editor of SmallBusiness.co.uk from 2010 to 2018. He specialises in writing for start-up and scale-up companies in the areas of finance, marketing and HR.

News

UK SMEs prefer Europe as trading destination

SMEs depend heavily on European trade relationships despite ongoing speculation on the potential for a UK Brexit from the European Union, finds research.

News

UK employees among the least loyal in Europe 

Nearly half of UK workers (47 per cent) are planning to change jobs in less than three years, compared to a third of European employees, research finds.

Accounting

Tackling late payment: First-hand advice from small businesses

In this article in association with the Federation of Small Businesses, we look at how businesses are managing the problematic situation of being paid late.

News

Freelancers lack confidence in business outlook and economy 

A study from self-employment support body IPSE shows freelancers' confidence is at its lowest level since the organisation began surveying.

Business Loans

A small business guide to property loans

In this piece in association with Fundbird, we give a basic overview of the main commercial finance options available to you.

News

UK workplaces undermined by too many rules, study finds

Employers can unleash the productivity of their workers by allowing them more scope to use their initiative, create more stimulating work and reduce the burden of unnecessary rules and procedures, according to research.

News

Stress levels hit peak for small company owners

More than two thirds of small business owners say it is more stressful to run a business now than ever before, research finds.

News

Government launches research and development plan to boost small businesses

A new plan has been announced outlining how government will make it easier for small businesses investing in research and development to claim tax relief.

News

Large portion of SMEs have had overdrafts removed or reduced

Some 30 per cent of small businesses have seen their overdrafts slashed or removed in the past two years, according to a study.

News

Consumers value good spelling and grammar in a small business

Nine in ten shoppers are more encouraged to shop with businesses that abide by the rules of the 'grammar police'.

News

Many SMEs would go under if founder left, study suggests

Nearly half of SMEs in the UK believe their businesses would close in under 12 months if their founder were to suddenly leave the business.

Legal advice

How to contend with intellectual property infringements as a small company

Here, in an article in association with the Federation of Small Businesses, we speak to law professionals about what to do in the event of IP infringements.