The №1 Business Forum - Recent Topics

How is the Iran war going to affect your business?

Lawson Willett — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:54:03 +0000

Oil spikes and trade sanctions abound. Trump is cosying up to oil and military supply companies. What is this war really about, and how will it affect you and your business?

At present, filling up your car is getting more expensive by the day. We are seeing headlines sensationalising the lack of gas reserves, stating we only have 2 days in reserve.

Now the time to go solar? Electric car? dare I say off grid?

Why are there such tight restrictions on wind turbines in the UK? It does seem nonsensical.

Is working on the road still viable in 2026?

Lawson Willett — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:37:13 +0000

As I sit in a Cineworld waiting area on the Isle of Wight, a common question bubbles to the surface: Is the nomadic lifestyle of working on the road still a viable option? Whether you're a digital nomad, a consultant, or even a sales professional in the tech sector, the allure of sipping coffee in a beachside café while monitoring emails can be quite enticing. I haven't found it...

The rise of remote work has shown no signs of slowing down, with about 30% of jobs being fully remote as of 2024. This trend isn’t just a fluke; businesses across sectors—finance, marketing, and tech, to name a few—have embraced flexible work arrangements. However, the technology landscape is ever-evolving. With advancements in 5G and portable work tools, connectivity is less of a hurdle than it used to be—unless, of course, you find yourself in the vast expanse of the Australian Outback without Wi-Fi!

That said, working on the road does come with its own set of challenges. Imagine trying to pitch a million-dollar project from a roadside diner with a spotty internet connection. Not exactly the best first impression, is it? Additionally, maintaining work-life balance can become a juggling act when your office is also your vacation spot.

The perks of being a mobile worker
On the bright side, road warriors like both my wife and I can find inspiration in new environments, which can foster creativity—imagine brainstorming your next marketing campaign while staring at the majestic Grand Canyon. Plus, with the rise of co-working spaces in towns and cities worldwide, you can have a professional setup ready to go. Who doesn’t love a good conference call with a picturesque backdrop?

As I see it, this working suits some sectors better than others. I'm sure there are niches, generally speaking:

Tech: Software developers and data analysts already have the tools to work anywhere, making them prime candidates for a road warrior lifestyle.
Sales: Field sales representatives effectively operate on the move. Just ensure that your presentation software doesn't decide to crash while you’re demonstrating it to a client at a coffee shop!
Consulting: With an internet connection and a laptop, consultants thrive on flexibility. But pack a portable charger—you might need it during that unexpected four-hour drive through the mountains!

So, is working on the road still viable in 2026? Absolutely, with a healthy dose of planning and flexibility. As long as you have a reliable connection (and perhaps a backup plan for those tech hiccups), the road can be your office. Just try not to confuse your “out of office” auto-replies with vacation selfies!

And...Electric cars absolutely work for the workflow. The charging networks are better than ever. My wife drives between 600 and 1000 miles per week, and her Tesla has been flawless.

What are your thoughts? Are you gearing up for a road trip while working remotely, or do you have any road-warrior horror stories to share?

What are the Legal Considerations When Setting Up a Virtual Office?

Lawson Willett — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:10:31 +0000

Contemplating setting up a virtual office? Congratulations! It's a leap that combines modern flexibility with the thrill of entrepreneurship—sort of like working in your pyjamas but still feeling like a boss. However, before you dive into this exciting venture, let’s talk about some legal considerations that won't put you to sleep but are essential nonetheless.

First up is your business structure. Will you be a sole trader, a partnership, or run a limited company? Think of this as choosing your superhero alter ego. Each option comes with its unique responsibilities regarding taxes and liability. Some may allow you to operate with less paperwork, while others might sprinkle a bit more red tape into your entrepreneurial smoothie. Consulting with a legal or financial advisor is like having a trusty sidekick; they can help you navigate the complexities.

Next, let’s chat about your virtual office provider. It’s crucial to pick a reputable company, unless you fancy getting stuck in a contract that’s more tangled than your headphones in your pocket. Read the terms of service carefully—know what you’re signing up for! Services like mail handling, phone answering, and meeting room access are usually included, but always check for a confidentiality clause. This makes sure your sensitive business information stays more secure than your secret cookie stash.

When it comes to address registration, be aware that using a virtual office address for your business is more common than you might think. Just remember that regulatory bodies like Companies House have their own rules regarding addresses for official correspondence. You wouldn’t want a mail mix-up landing you in hot water—unless you're into that sort of thing!

Next is data protection, which may sound boring, but think of it as your business's bodyguard. If you're collecting and processing personal data, compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a must. This means you’ll need to put on your privacy hat (figuratively, of course) and take the necessary steps to protect that data. Not adhering to these laws could lead to penalties—certainly not the kind of excitement you want for your business.

Speaking of excitement, let’s talk taxes! Depending on where your virtual office resides and your business structure, you may find yourself tangled in tax obligations – like VAT registration or business rates. Keeping clear records is your best friend here, and again, consulting a tax professional is a smart move. After all, you wouldn’t want to accidentally confuse your receipts for last night’s dinner with your business expenses.

Lastly, don’t forget about licenses or permits! Depending on your industry, you might need a few official stamps of approval to operate. It’s like getting permission to host a party; nobody wants uninvited trouble crashing in!

In summary, while the idea of a virtual office is as appealing as a home-cooked meal on a cold day, it’s vital to keep your legal responsibilities on the front burner. From figuring out your business structure and provider to ensuring compliance with data protection laws, every detail counts.

If you’re thinking about making the leap, consider consulting a legal professional specialising in business law. They can help you address these legal considerations without turning it into a suspense thriller. And remember, a little preparation now will help you avoid potential plot twists later on.

Choosing Broadband suppliers vs Starlink. How to make the choice?

Lawson Willett — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:27:34 +0000

We are working through broadband operators at present. From traditional broadband suppliers or the intriguing newcomer, Starlink. The choice can feel almost like deciding between a well-loved old shoe that’s comfortable yet worn out and a shiny new model promising comfort and speed. But just like that shoe, the one you select will fundamentally affect your day-to-day operations and overall business agility, not to mention your Netflix binge-watching experience. So, how do we navigate this digital quandary?

When considering speed. Traditional broadband connections can range from 25 Mbps to well over 1 Gbps, depending on the service provider and your location. For many entrepreneurs, particularly those operating in metropolitan areas, the reliability of these speeds is often a major selling point. If you’re running a bustling e-commerce site or hosting video conferences that make "Can you see me now?" a frequently asked question, a stable, high-speed connection is worth its weight in gold—or at least in monthly subscription fees. Our site is city centre based, so the connectivity problems are not an issue seemingly.

On the flip side, Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, boasts impressive download speeds that can range from 50 Mbps to 250 Mbps. While these figures are tempting, particularly in areas typically neglected by terrestrial providers, there’s a catch: latency. Ah, latency, the silent killer of seamless internet interactions. In broadband systems, latency is usually around 20-40 ms, while Starlink can experience latencies from 20 ms to over 100 ms due to the nature of satellite communication. If you’re piecing together a complex business strategy via a video call, that slight delay might lead to a whole lot of “Wait, did you just say…?” moments.

Now, let’s take an entrepreneurial dive into the most critical aspect: reliability. For anyone running a small business or startup, downtime can be disastrous. Traditional broadband services often come with Service Level Agreements (SLAs), offering assurances of uptime and customer service responses that can quickly resolve issues. Starlink, meanwhile, is a bit of a wild card. While its infrastructure is continuously evolving, being dependent on satellite technology means its performance can be affected by weather conditions (like that pesky rain cloud that seems to follow you around).

Interestingly enough, there’s also the matter of installation. In most cases, traditional broadband means scheduling an appointment, possibly wrestling an installer for a few hours, and navigating potential hidden costs. Starlink, however, offers a more ‘do-it-yourself’ approach, providing you with a dish and instructions that could have come from an IKEA manual. Entrepreneurs keen on rolling out their operations with minimal hassle might appreciate this plug-and-play nature, though it does come with its own learning curve.

Another crucial consideration is cost. Depending on your location, standard broadband prices can range from modest to quite hefty. Starlink's monthly service fee is generally comparable, but it requires an upfront equipment cost that can be a hard nut to crack in an early-stage budget. That said, if you’re located in a remote part of the world where broadband is scarce, suddenly, the investment won’t seem quite as daunting.

Let’s not forget the emotional aspect! For those of us who fondly remember waiting for our dial-up connection to chime in as an old friend, the prospect of Starlink feels like a nostalgic leap into the dizzy heights of innovation. The idea of satellite internet conjures up visions of space-age progress, a tale entrepreneurs love to weave into their brand stories. Who wouldn’t want to ride the wave of technological advancement?

The decision between traditional broadband suppliers versus Starlink boils down to your specific needs and circumstances. Are you in a remote area requiring flexibility? Is latency a significant factor for your business operations? Do you value speed over reliability, or the other way around? Our current contract provider is Virgin and with a failover 5G connection to piggyback the mobile network if all else fails. But these are business-critical processes for us and most businesses; we would not be able to function with all the cloud-based systems we operate via.

So, gather your data, weigh your options, and just like that old shoe, make sure you’re ready to step into the future of business connectivity with confidence! Any thoughts and experiences to share?

New Employee Pack and Requirements - UK 2026

Lawson Willett — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:41:24 +0000

Have you seen the changes? It's essential for employers to stay proactive in compiling the necessary documentation for new hires. Here’s a breakdown of the changes and how to approach gathering these materials effectively when looking to employ a new starter:

Key changes you need to be mindful of:

Employment Contracts:

Clarity and Specifics: Contracts will need to include more explicit terms regarding job roles, responsibilities, and conditions, ensuring transparency and reducing ambiguity.

Standardised Templates: Consider using standardised templates that align with the new legal requirements to streamline the process.

Right to Work Checks: This process might become more stringent, requiring thorough checks of identification documents. You may need to stay updated on any specific forms or methods mandated by the new laws.

Health and Safety Documents: Enhanced focus on employee safety could mean you’ll need to provide more detailed health and safety training records and policies, especially surrounding mental health and well-being.

Data Protection Compliance: You might be required to offer clearer documentation regarding how employee data is collected and processed under the updated data protection guidelines.

Training Records: Greater emphasis may be placed on continuous professional development, ensuring that training materials and compliance records are well-documented and easily accessible.

Confidentiality Agreements: If employees handle sensitive information, you may need to implement updated confidentiality agreements that reflect the new laws concerning data utilisation.

Best Approach to Preparing Materials

Conduct a Document Audit: Review your current documentation against the expected legal changes. Identify gaps and areas for improvement.

Engage with HR and Legal Experts: Consult with HR professionals and legal advisors who specialise in employment law to ensure your documents meet the new standards.

Create Standard Templates: Develop templates for key documents (contracts, handbooks, etc.) that comply with the new regulations, keeping them easily editable for future hires.

Implementation of a Centralised System: Consider using a digital documentation system to store and manage employment records. This will streamline access and updates as laws change.

Training and Communication: Make sure you provide training for all HR staff on any new procedures or documentation requirements. Ensure they understand the importance of compliance with the updated regulations.

Feedback Mechanism: Set up a system for employees to provide feedback on the clarity and comprehensiveness of the documentation. This can help in making necessary adjustments.

Before you get Chat-GPT or your favourite A.I model to draft up any documents, do not fall foul of wording that does not protect you or your business. Make sure a professional signs off on them.

Crafting Your Business Plan for 2026 - The Do's and Don'ts

Lawson Willett — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:05:49 +0000

Many of you are likely looking to transition away from the unequivocal joys (insert sarcasm here) of mainstream employment into the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship. But before you toss your briefcase or rucksack out of the window and declare yourself the CEO of your living room, let's talk about how to create a business plan that doesn’t resemble a romantic comedy gone wrong.

Firstly, working for yourself is a shackles-off moment but it's also a huge roller coaster of learning, emotional exposure and not to mention that statistics indicate that about 20% of businesses fail within their first year. By the end of the fifth year, approximately 60% of businesses have ceased trading. This shows that while many businesses succeed beyond the initial phase, a significant number do not survive the early years. Not ot scare you!

Getting your foundation right is key. What are you offering? Why is it different to the competition? Who is your target audience, and why/how would your customers come to you?.

Have you written a business plan before? It is a strange thing to do, research is key, a.i. tools are useful, but do not rely on them wholly. Look at your competition in fine detail, try to spot a weakness or something you could do better. Putting your thoughts down on paper can lead to many revelations. Here's what I learned to put down to help get you started. Even if you are self-financed, it's a worthy exercise.

The Dos for Your Business Plan:

Do Your Research: Just like that time you decided to deep dive into the intricacies of avocado toast, you will want to research your market. Understand your audience, your competitors, and the industry trends. Google is your best friend—second only to coffee.

Set Clear Goals: Aim for SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. “To be rich” is technically a goal, but “to generate £100,000 in revenue by Q4 2026” is far more useful (and less vague).

Create a Financial Plan: Numbers might not be your forte, but without a solid financial plan, your business could be like a ship without a captain—heading straight for the iceberg. I have never seen a truly accurate forecast; it's a measure of your performance that will affect how you balance the rest of the cash flow, and to show you, your business partners and financiers how you aim to operate.

Do Seek Feedback: Share your draft with mentors or fellow entrepreneurs. It’s better to hear “this is a trainwreck” now than to stare at your empty bank account later. Your family are important to consult, but they will tend to give you filtered responses.

Dont's for Your Business Plan:

Don’t Skip the Executive Summary: If there's any part of your plan that should be concise yet enticing, it's this. Remember, not everyone has the time to read your entire dissertation. Make it appealing enough that they want to dive deeper!

Don’t Overcomplicate Things: Avoid jargon and complex terminology. If your plan sounds like Shakespeare wrote it, it might be time for a rewrite. Clarity is key; think of it as your business's first impression.

Don’t ignore the Competition: No, ignoring your competitors won’t magically make them disappear. Remember, in business, it’s more like "Keep your friends close and your competitors even closer."

Don’t forget to plan for failure: Every great plan should include a strategy for overcoming potential challenges. If nothing else, it prepares you for those “exciting” unexpected turns that entrepreneurship tends to throw at you.

Creating a business plan in 2026 isn’t just about spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations (please avoid PowerPoint); it's about envisioning where you want to go and how you plan to get there. So, put on your entrepreneurial thinking cap, and remember: failure to plan is planning to fail – and nobody wants to be the person at the start-up pitch saying, “Uh… we’ll wing it.”

What would the best apprenticeships trade skills be for long term career options in the UK 2026?

Lawson Willett — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 11:38:50 +0000

In the UK, as of 2026, several apprenticeship trade skills present strong long-term career options. Here are some promising paths. With new government initiatives looking to increase our trade skill foundation from the younger generations for a more secure UK economy perspective.

Construction and Building Trades: Skills in plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and masonry remain in high demand as the UK continues to focus on housing and infrastructure development. With strict goals in place imposed by the UK government, building works will be heavily invested in to maintain high standards and skill sets for the future.

Green Energy: With the push towards sustainability, apprenticeships in solar panel installation, wind turbine maintenance, and energy efficiency consulting are increasingly valuable. With over 50% of UK's energy supply now produced via renewable sources. Technology is focused on making this more efficient and cost-effective for vital infrastructure.

Healthcare: Roles in nursing, health administration, and allied health professions through apprenticeships can lead to rewarding careers, especially given the ongoing demand in the UK healthcare system. The NHS is one of the biggest employers in the world, and our healthcare system is revered the world over. Having apprentices learning skills to support the future of the NHS is essential to maintain and enhance standards.

Information Technology: Skills in cybersecurity, software development, and data analysis are highly sought after. IT apprenticeships can pave the way for a variety of roles in tech. Cybersecurity apprenticeship programs focus on protecting organisations from cyber threats and ensuring the security of data and systems. This involves learning about risk assessment, security protocols, and incident response. Whereas IT Support apprenticeships train individuals to provide technical assistance for computer systems, networks, and software. This role often involves troubleshooting hardware and software issues, setting up systems, and providing guidance to users.

Automotive Trades: With advancements in electric vehicles and sustainable transport, skills in automotive technology and repair are becoming essential. JLR (Jaguar Land Rover), among others, actively recruit apprenticises to help train and grow a secure future for their business. Don't just think about car manufacturers, think about engineering and infrastructure businesses to support vehicles on our roads.

Manufacturing and Engineering: Apprenticeships in areas like CNC machining, fabrication, and welding can provide stable career paths as industries aim to bolster UK manufacturing capabilities.

Hospitality and Culinary Arts: For those interested in food and service, apprenticeships in hospitality management or culinary skills can lead to various opportunities in a thriving industry.

Digital Marketing: As businesses increasingly rely on digital strategies, skills in social media marketing, SEO, and content creation are becoming increasingly relevant. PR (Public Relations ) support for all communications is a critical part of many businesses' marketing efforts. You could be part of the team that helps support crisis comms, promotes products, and attracts audiences from all over the world.

These areas not only promise job security but also opportunities for advancement and specialisation. Consider evaluating your interests and strengths before committing to a specific field. Do your research and think long term; you will be working for a long time, so find a career that you are interested in and will enjoy.

Spring Fair - 2026

Lawson Willett — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:35:28 +0000

Attending this year's Spring Fair at the NEC this year was full of the usual culprits and wading through the vast array of stands to reveal there were some gems looking to enter into the UK with new products and owners of possible future trends.

I like wandering the smaller stands to spot some potential products for our own 3PL business. I had some great conversations with Orange Tree Toys (wooden toy producer), Keycraft toys (pocket money toys), Kizandy (tinned mint products and client D&X Jewellery (Fashion Jewellery and gifts).

The show was noticeably smaller this year, especially the toy hall. Is this a trend and a future sign of the shrinking spending power of the economy, or is it a waning interest in the show? A number of exhibitors said that they have seen a decline over the years, and they were hoping to match last year's figures as a minimum, or they will be considering their options next year.

Anyone else attending?

Capitalising on President Trump's Antics – A Guide for UK Business Owners

Lawson Willett — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:11:20 +0000

As UK business owners, we often find ourselves navigating the unpredictable waters of global politics, and with President Trump back on the scene, there's no shortage of antics that can create both opportunities and challenges. While some may see his actions as merely a source of entertainment, savvy entrepreneurs can find ways to leverage these developments for their benefit.

Stay Informed About Trade Policies: President Trump has a history of shaking things up with tariffs and trade agreements. By keeping a close eye on his policies, you can adjust your business strategies. For instance, if you see a swing towards protecting US manufacturing, consider how that might affect your supply chain. Would sourcing from other countries give you a competitive edge? We have seen enquiries from Canada, Russia and India that are a direct result of tariffs and political movements.

Play Up Your British Brand: In this climate of America-first policies, highlighting what makes your UK business unique can resonate well with consumers. Lean into British heritage, quality, and trustworthiness, reminding customers why they should choose your products over cheaper imports, which may be subject to fluctuating tariffs. If you are trying to sell to international clients, 'Made in the United Kingdom' still holds weight and especially in East Asia.

Embrace Online Marketing: With media attention focusing on Trump's every move, there's an amazing opportunity to ride the waves of trending topics. Craft clever marketing campaigns that cleverly tie in current events – just be careful not to come off as opportunistic. A little wit can go a long way in engaging your audience! For instance, a light-hearted jab at trade issues could have your customers chuckling and sharing your brand instead of running for the hills.

Diversify Your Markets: What happens in US politics doesn’t stay in the US—it can affect global economies. If you start to see market instability, consider diversification. Exploring emerging markets can provide new revenue streams and reduce your reliance on more volatile regions. Think of it as spreading out your chips in a game of poker.

Prepare for the Unexpected: With the unpredictability of Trump’s decisions, it’s wise to have contingency plans. Flexibility is key in business. Setting up crisis management strategies will keep your business agile should any sudden changes in the international landscape affect your operations.

While world politics can seem scary and uncertain, it also opens the door for creativity and strategic planning. Embracing the chaos with a sprinkle of humour can not only lighten the mood but also forge a path toward growth and success.

Navigating the New UK Labour Laws: A Guide for Entrepreneurs and Employers

Lawson Willett — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 13:48:09 +0000

As we step into a new era of UK labour laws, business owners need to prepare for all changes due. One of the key updates is the introduction of a new tax allowance scheme that promises to shake things up—hopefully for the better!

What is the New Tax Allowance Scheme?

In simple terms, the new tax allowance scheme allows for certain expenses to be deducted from taxable profits, effectively reducing the tax burden on businesses. This comes as some relief, especially for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are looking to maximise their financial resources. The scheme is designed to incentivise job creation, employee welfare, and overall growth within the workforce.

What Should Be Put in Place for Each Employee?

Now, before you picturе brainstorming sessions with elaborate charts (or maybe that is just my imagination), here’s a straightforward checklist of what you ought to consider for each member of your team:

Clear Compensation Structure: Ensure that remuneration packages are transparent and take into account the new tax deductions available. This not only fosters trust but also motivates your employees.

Expense Tracking: Implement a reliable system for tracking employee expenses. This could be as simple as a dedicated software tool or spreadsheet. Good record-keeping can help you take full advantage of the tax allowances. Talk to your accountant or bookkeeper; they may be able to help you.

Training on Benefits: Just like you wouldn’t send your mate to the shop without knowing what they’re buying, make sure your employees understand how the tax allowance scheme works. Consider providing training or informational resources to help them fully grasp the benefits available to them.

Regular Reviews: Establish a system for regularly reviewing your finances and employee benefits aligned with the new laws. This helps identify areas where you can save on taxes or enhance employee satisfaction.

Health and Wellbeing Initiatives: Use a portion of the savings from the tax allowances to invest in your employees’ health and well-being. After all, a happy employee is a productive employee. Plus, it might lead to fewer ‘sick days’—and we all know how challenging that can be!

Feedback Mechanism: Encourage employees to provide feedback on their experiences with the new scheme. Understanding their perspective will help you refine your approach and demonstrate that you value their input.

Navigating new legislation does take some reading and absorbing, but remember, we all want to enhance our businesses and support our workforce. As entrepreneurs, we like to see the big picture while keeping our eyes on the little details; this is no different.