News

BGF, the most active growth capital investor in the UK and Ireland, deployed £489 million in 2024, welcoming 47 new businesses into its expanding portfolio of 360 companies.

Despite a subdued mergers and acquisitions landscape, several of BGF’s portfolio firms enjoyed robust exits this year, underscoring the benefits of BGF’s investment and value creation model. Engineering design consultancy Hydrock, design automation specialist DriveWorks, and education recruitment provider Operam Education all exited successfully, delivering money multiples of 6x, 2.8x, and 2.5x respectively.

BGF typically invests in return for a minority equity stake, offering entrepreneurs a critical alternative funding source to fuel growth ahead of a future exit. “We’re pleased to have welcomed a new cohort of entrepreneurial companies that are driving growth, creating jobs, boosting exports, and fostering innovation across the UK and Ireland,” said Andy Gregory, CEO of BGF.

Since its inception, BGF has surpassed £4 billion in total investments, having supported over 600 ambitious SMEs. In 2024 alone, the organisation channelled funds into a diverse range of ventures, reflecting its commitment to regional growth. Recent investments include Elite Dynamics in the North West, Skewb in the Midlands, Woodland Kitchens in Northern Ireland and Sulmara in Scotland. Additional examples include Eventmaster in the Republic of Ireland, Tevalis in Yorkshire, Vosaio in the South East, Tapered Plus in the North East, Pure Cyber in Wales, and Plant-Ex in the South West.

BGF is also driving progress in critical global areas such as sustainability and life sciences, with investments in Sunswap (pictured), Puraffinity, DEScycle, Wobble Genomics, NanoSyrinx, and Abselion. Notably, BGF joined forces with other key investors to commit £25 million to the Invest in Women Taskforce, which has amassed £250 million for female entrepreneurs and women-led businesses across the UK.

Looking ahead to 2025, Gregory emphasised BGF’s dedication to fostering business success and strengthening local economies: “As we move into 2025, we remain committed to driving growth, supporting value creation for businesses and shareholders, and playing a key role in delivering the sustainable growth the economy needs now and in the future.”

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BGF supports UK and Ireland’s growth with £489M in 2024 investments

Rachel Reeves is set to announce an ambitious package of measures aimed at jump-starting Britain’s flagging economy, as she positions her government’s growth drive alongside Margaret Thatcher’s 1980s approach to deregulation.

In her speech on Wednesday, the Chancellor will throw her weight behind a series of high-profile infrastructure and development projects, including an expansion of Heathrow Airport, the creation of a “European Silicon Valley” between Oxford and Cambridge, and regeneration around Manchester United’s Old Trafford.

Critics, however, have voiced scepticism about the government’s sudden shift towards pro-growth policies, claiming that a raft of tax hikes and regulatory changes has already undermined business confidence. They highlight the Chancellor’s extensive Budget tax plans and the new workers’ rights framework, as well as strict environmental regulations. Some industry leaders accuse ministers of taking seven months to respond to deteriorating economic conditions—by contrast, they point to how Donald Trump launched a significant economic stimulus package within days of assuming office in the US.

Reeves’s new plan includes an East-West Rail link between Oxford and Milton Keynes, improvements to the road linking that route to Cambridge, and the development of new towns along the Oxford-Cambridge corridor—an area she says could generate as much as £78 billion for the economy by 2035. This shift underscores a departure from the previous government’s “levelling up” agenda, which targeted investment in left-behind regions across the North and Midlands. Instead, Reeves places the focus on delivering faster travel connections and more affordable housing in one of the country’s most innovation-driven regions.

Alongside infrastructure upgrades, Reeves is expected to endorse a third runway at Heathrow and expansion at other key airports such as Gatwick and Luton. While any buildout would take years to complete, it marks a notable change in tone, with Labour leader Keir Starmer citing Thatcher’s deregulation of the City as a model for the “morass of regulation” that his government plans to overhaul. He frames this drive as crucial to unlocking billions of pounds of private investment, dismissing suggestions that growth and green policies are incompatible.

Yet the new pro-growth rhetoric arrives as ministers proceed with measures that many firms argue are stifling expansion. Despite the introduction of a ‘growth test’ to filter out policies deemed detrimental to the economy, some planned initiatives—such as a £25 billion National Insurance increase and a ban on new oil and gas exploration—remain in place. Critics have seized on these apparent contradictions, questioning how the government can claim to support expansion while imposing higher costs on employers.

Entrepreneurs in the private sector also complain of mixed signals. Sportswear founder Tom Behan, for instance, describes the business climate as “incredibly challenging,” saying the current administration has been slow to offer clarity and leadership. He points out that, while the US unveiled a vast funding package for AI within days of a new presidency, it has taken the UK government over half a year to propose fresh growth measures.

Despite these criticisms, Reeves is pressing ahead with her reforms, emphasising that forging a stable and dynamic economy requires decisive action, including “tough trade-offs” between growth, environmental commitments and workers’ rights. Business groups remain eager for concrete follow-through and a swift timeline, warning that Britain’s competitive edge could erode if momentum stalls yet again.

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Rachel Reeves to unveil ‘Thatcher-style’ growth agenda as businesses demand swift action

More than one in five UK employees feel unable to discuss their mental health in the workplace, according to new research. The analysis reveals that 7.5 million workers struggle with anxiety, depression or stress that is caused or exacerbated by their jobs, yet do not feel safe disclosing their difficulties to employers.

Drawing on data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the study also shows a gender gap in seeking help. In the past year, 3.9 million men reported suffering with mental health issues at work without asking for support—8% more than the 3.5 million women who said they experienced similar challenges.

Automotive workplaces emerged as the sector with the highest proportion of ‘silent’ sufferers, at 1.13 million, followed by health and social care settings, where 1.11 million individuals reported managing mental health issues privately. In contrast, the arts, entertainment and recreation industry—and the financial and insurance sector—had the lowest numbers of people struggling unseen, at 264,000 and 256,000 respectively.

Richard Stockley, Managing Director at RRC International, who conducted the research describes the findings as “shocking,” pointing out that despite recent progress in tackling stigma, workers are still not comfortable disclosing mental health difficulties. “Our research shines a very necessary light on the issue to help employers better understand just how widespread mental health challenges are. Change begins in the workplace, and with the right culture and training, employers can ensure their businesses are safe spaces for all who work there,” he said.

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7.5 million UK workers ‘suffer in silence’ over mental health challenges at work

Security is a top priority in the world of online trading!

A platform can boast a vast selection of markets, cutting-edge tools, and customized features, but without robust security measures, traders’ trust will remain elusive. MuxCap.com has garnered attention as one of the standout players in the online trading landscape, praised for its wide-ranging features and dedication to user safety. But how secure is MuxCap.com?

Unlike other MuxCap.com reviews, this comprehensive security review explores whether traders are truly protected.

Foundations of Trust: Is MuxCap Legitimate?

The legitimacy of an online trading platform hinges on its adherence to regulatory standards, adoption of best practices, and commitment to transparency. MuxCap checks these boxes by operating in compliance with globally recognized norms and deploying state-of-the-art technologies to safeguard users’ interests.

Indicators of Legitimacy:

Regulatory Compliance: MuxCap adheres to industry standards, ensuring legal protections for traders.
Transparent Operations: The platform offers clear fee structures, readily available customer support, and detailed account options.
Ethical Practices: By maintaining a no-hidden-costs policy, MuxCap demonstrates its commitment to fostering trust.

These foundational elements exemplify MuxCap’s mission to provide a secure and legitimate trading environment.

Encryption: Protecting Sensitive Data

MuxCap employs advanced encryption protocols to safeguard user data. Encryption ensures that sensitive information—such as login credentials, financial details, and transaction records—remains inaccessible to unauthorized parties. Any communication between the user’s device and MuxCap’s servers is effectively unreadable by potential intruders.

Benefits of Encryption:

Data Confidentiality: Personal and financial information stays private.
Secure Transactions: Payment details are encrypted to prevent fraud or theft.
Protection During Transmission: All exchanges are shielded from interception.

MuxCap’s proactive stance on encryption addresses one of the most critical concerns for online traders: data security.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Layer of Security

MuxCap enhances account protection with two-factor authentication (2FA). This feature drastically reduces the risk of unauthorized access by requiring users to verify their identity through a secondary method, such as a code sent to their mobile device or email.

Why 2FA Matters:

Prevents Account Hacking: Even if passwords are compromised, 2FA serves as a robust secondary defense.
User Empowerment: Ensures only authorized users can access accounts.
Effortless Security: Quick verification steps offer substantial protection without inconvenience.

2FA is a cornerstone of MuxCap’s security framework, giving traders the confidence to focus on their strategies without fear of breaches.

Segregated Client Accounts: Ensuring Fund Safety

One of MuxCap’s standout security measures is its use of segregated client accounts. This practice involves keeping traders’ funds separate from the company’s operational accounts.

Benefits of Segregated Accounts:

Insolvency Protection: Traders’ funds remain untouched even if the company faces financial difficulties.
Unrestricted Access: Users can withdraw funds at any time without interference.
Enhanced Transparency: Segregation demonstrates ethical and secure fund management.

This approach highlights MuxCap’s commitment to ensuring that users’ funds are protected under all circumstances.

Fraud Detection and Monitoring: Staying Ahead

MuxCap employs sophisticated algorithms to monitor trading activities in real-time, enabling the platform to identify and address suspicious behavior promptly.

Features of MuxCap’s Fraud Detection System:

Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous oversight of trading activities for irregularities.
Instant Alerts: Notifications are sent to users and administrators in case of suspicious activity.
Fraud Investigations: Suspicious transactions are reviewed and blocked if necessary.

By proactively mitigating risks, MuxCap provides a secure environment where traders can operate with peace of mind.

Regulatory Compliance: A Testament to Credibility

MuxCap’s compliance with globally recognized financial regulations underscores its legitimacy and commitment to security. The platform operates under stringent legal frameworks, ensuring that traders are protected.

Advantages of Regulatory Compliance:

Accountability: Regulatory oversight ensures ethical and transparent operations.
Dispute Resolution: Traders have access to legal recourse in case of conflicts.
Investor Confidence: Adherence to regulations fosters trust among users.

MuxCap’s regulatory compliance sets it apart as a reliable trading platform.

MuxCap’s Data Privacy: Prioritizing User Rights

MuxCap is dedicated to safeguarding user privacy, complying with stringent privacy laws such as the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).

Key Features of Data Privacy:

Minimal Data Collection: Only essential information is collected, reducing exposure to potential breaches.
Strict Access Controls: User data is accessible only to authorized personnel.
Transparent Policies: MuxCap clearly outlines its data collection, storage, and usage practices.

These measures reinforce MuxCap’s reputation as a secure and user-focused trading platform.

Transparent Fee Structure: No Hidden Surprises

Hidden fees can erode trust and lead to financial losses. MuxCap tackles this issue with a transparent fee structure, providing a detailed breakdown of costs such as spreads, commissions, and withdrawal fees.

Benefits of Transparency:

Informed Decision-Making: Users know exactly what they’re paying, fostering confidence.
Avoiding Disputes: Clear fee structures reduce misunderstandings.
Competitive Pricing: MuxCap’s pricing ensures value for traders.

Customer Support 24/5: A Reliable Lifeline

Reliable customer support is an essential component of user security. MuxCap provides 24/5 support through email, phone, and live chat, ensuring that users can resolve issues quickly or report suspicious activities.

Customer Support Highlights:

Expert Assistance: The team is well-equipped to handle security concerns.
Quick Responses: Timely support minimizes disruptions to trading activities.
Multi-Channel Availability: Users can reach out via their preferred communication method.

While the absence of 24/7 support is a minor drawback, the quality of assistance during operational hours compensates for this limitation.

Areas for Improvement!

Despite its robust security measures, MuxCap has room for growth:

Dedicated Mobile App: A mobile app with integrated security features would enhance convenience for on-the-go traders.
24/7 Customer Support: Expanding support hours would better accommodate global users in different time zones.

Conclusion: Are Traders Safe on MuxCap.com?

Traders are indeed well-protected on MuxCap.com. The platform’s comprehensive security measures—including encryption, two-factor authentication, segregated accounts, and real-time fraud detection—safeguard both funds and personal information. Its regulatory compliance, transparency, and reliable customer support further reinforce its credibility.

While the absence of a dedicated mobile app and 24/7 support are areas for improvement, these shortcomings do not detract from MuxCap’s overall strengths. The platform has established itself as a trustworthy and secure trading partner, catering to both beginners and seasoned professionals.

For traders prioritizing security and transparency, MuxCap.com is a solid choice. From navigating the volatile cryptocurrency market to diversifying portfolios with commodities and forex, MuxCap provides a secure foundation for successful trading.

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MuxCap.com Reviews | How Safe Are the Platform Traders? Is There Room for Improvement at MuxCap?

Dr. Ammar Idlibi is not your typical pediatric dentist. Based in Bristol, Connecticut, he’s known not just for fixing cavities but for changing the way families think about oral health.

His journey from an aspiring dentist to a leader in his field is both inspiring and deeply human. It’s a story of passion, innovation, and a drive to help others.

A Lifetime of Learning

Dr. Idlibi’s path to dentistry wasn’t just about following a career; it was about finding a purpose. “I’ve always believed in the power of prevention,” he says. “When you start early and teach children healthy habits, you’re giving them tools that last a lifetime.”

He is a board-certified pediatric dentist, which is no small feat. It requires years of advanced training and rigorous testing. But his focus isn’t just on certifications or accolades. Instead, it’s on making dental care accessible and engaging for children. “It’s not about the title; it’s about the difference you make,” he explains.

Early Start, Lasting Impact

Dr. Idlibi knows the importance of starting oral care early. His three pediatric dental practices in Connecticut are designed to make young patients feel comfortable and safe. “The first dental visit is crucial,” he shares. “It’s about building trust and showing kids that going to the dentist can be fun.”

His practices are filled with bright colors, kid-friendly tools, and staff trained to work with children. But it’s not just about aesthetics. Dr. Idlibi emphasizes education. Parents leave his office with clear guidance on how to care for their child’s teeth at home. “Parents are the first line of defense against cavities,” he says. “My role is to support and empower them.”

A Creative Approach to Oral Health

Dr. Idlibi isn’t just a dentist; he’s an innovator. He even developed a tooth-friendly sweet drink for kids. The idea came from his frustration with sugary beverages that harm children’s teeth. “I wanted to offer an alternative,” he says. “Something that kids would love but wouldn’t cause cavities.”

This project reflects his ability to think outside the box. It’s not just about treating problems but finding creative ways to prevent them. “Prevention is always better than treatment,” he explains. “If we can stop problems before they start, we’ve done our job.”

Parenting and Community Involvement

As a father, Dr. Idlibi understands the challenges parents face. He often shares practical tips with families, like making brushing a fun activity or choosing healthy snacks. “Kids mimic what they see,” he says. “If they see you brushing and flossing, they’ll want to do it too.”

His commitment to children’s health extends beyond his practice. Dr. Idlibi is deeply involved in his community. He partners with schools and organizations to provide free dental care and education to underserved families. “Every child deserves a healthy smile,” he says. “It shouldn’t depend on where you live or how much money you make.”

Balancing Business and Care

Running three successful dental practices is no easy task. It requires business savvy and an entrepreneurial mindset. But for Dr. Idlibi, it’s always been about more than numbers. “I see my practices as a way to serve,” he says. “Yes, they’re businesses, but their real value is in the lives they touch.”

He also credits his team for much of his success. “You’re only as good as the people around you,” he says. “I’m fortunate to have a team that shares my vision and cares as much as I do.”

A Vision for the Future

Dr. Idlibi’s focus on the future keeps him motivated. He hopes to continue innovating in pediatric dentistry and finding new ways to improve children’s health. But he’s also passionate about mentorship. “I want to inspire the next generation of dentists,” he says. “There’s so much opportunity to make a difference.”

When asked about his legacy, he pauses before answering. “I don’t think about it in terms of awards or achievements,” he says. “If I can help kids grow up without fearing the dentist, and if I can give parents the tools to support their children’s health, then I’ve done my job.”

Words of Wisdom

Dr. Idlibi’s story is a reminder that small actions can have a big impact. Whether it’s developing a new product, educating a parent, or calming a scared child, his work is driven by a desire to help. “Dentistry is about more than teeth,” he says. “It’s about confidence, health, and quality of life.”

For parents, he offers this advice: “Start early. Stay consistent. Make it fun. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. We’re here to support you.”

Dr. Ammar Idlibi is more than a dentist—he’s a community builder, an innovator, and a mentor. His work shows that oral health is not just about teeth; it’s about creating a foundation for a healthier, happier life. In his words, “A healthy smile is a gift every child deserves. And together, we can make that happen.”

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Building Smiles and Futures: The Journey of Dr. Ammar Idlibi

Rachel Reeves has called on ministers to seize new opportunities for raising living standards, telling MPs that the country needs to go “further and faster” to boost growth.

Amid concerns that an intense focus on economic expansion could overshadow the government’s net zero commitments, Downing Street insisted that its plans for stimulating the economy “go hand in hand” with environmental progress.

Reeves, the chancellor, has sparked unease among some Labour MPs and environmental campaigners by describing growth as a top priority even if it raises questions about the pace of tackling climate change. She is set to clarify her approach in a major speech on Wednesday, where she will outline proposals to reform planning rules, speed up infrastructure projects and potentially support airport expansion—despite warnings that this could breach the UK’s legally binding carbon targets.

Addressing the parliamentary Labour party, Reeves acknowledged there were “no easy routes out” to grow the economy. She urged the government to shift away from saying “no” to major projects and to start “saying yes” to measures that spur wealth creation. While conceding that cost of living pressures remain severe, she argued that only by ramping up economic growth can the government hope to tackle them effectively.

Downing Street quickly moved to reassure those worried about the environmental ramifications of prioritising growth. A spokesperson for Keir Starmer insisted that net zero and a robust economy are complementary, pointing to the significant potential of green jobs and the large amounts of private sector investment that clean energy could attract. Critics remain uneasy, however, with Labour backbenchers such as Barry Gardiner challenging the rhetoric of putting decarbonisation in conflict with growth. Ruth Cadbury, the MP for Brentford and Isleworth, highlighted continued doubts over the expansion of Heathrow Airport, saying it may not fit a broader nationwide growth plan and also raises local concerns about noise and pollution.

Ed Miliband, the energy and climate change secretary, who recently stated he would not resign over the possibility of supporting a third runway at Heathrow, assured the House of Lords that “no contradiction” exists between net zero and growth. He further emphasised that any aviation expansion must be compatible with the UK’s carbon budgets, adding that if those targets cannot be met, plans would not proceed.

In a related push to boost the economy, Reeves explained that she would allow businesses to use surplus funds from certain final salary pension schemes for fresh investments. Around three-quarters of such schemes—known as defined benefit schemes—are in surplus, collectively amounting to about £160bn. Historically, legislative hurdles have made it difficult for companies to access this extra capital. In her Mansion House speech, Reeves also promoted the idea of consolidating pension funds into “megafunds,” merging multiple local authority pension schemes into larger pots capable of channelling investment into strategic projects. Although trustees often worry that giving businesses direct access to surpluses could endanger the safety of pension schemes, the government has proposed regulatory safeguards that would allow trustees to block any moves undermining a fund’s security.

As the government works to strike a delicate balance between driving growth and maintaining climate commitments, Reeves’s forthcoming speech will provide more details of the plan, and explain how it will respond to both the cost of living crisis and the compelling need to deliver on net zero targets.

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Reeves insists government must ‘go further and faster’ on economic growth while assuring critics of net zero commitments

Prisoners in the UK may soon benefit from an artificial intelligence system designed to transform how they access and engage with education.

EdTech company Coracle has received funding from Innovate UK to work alongside the University of Hertfordshire in developing a system dubbed the “AI cellmate.” This platform would tailor learning content to inmates’ individual needs, adapting in real time to guide them on their educational journeys.

Coracle, led by CEO James Tweed, already provides offline Chromebooks pre-loaded with educational resources to inmates in 91 prisons, offering secure access to courses from The Open University, Prisoners’ Education Trust and various vocational programmes. Tweed notes that while prisoners often have complex educational backgrounds—many having struggled or been excluded in school—they represent a vital opportunity to improve wider access to tailored learning.

According to Tweed, the AI cellmate will personalise its approach by recognising an individual’s strengths, weaknesses and learning style. It will adapt content dynamically, monitoring user engagement and performance even without an internet connection. The aim is for the AI to behave like a responsive digital mentor, bridging education gaps and potentially lowering reoffending rates.

The system is being developed through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Hertfordshire, where a PhD student will focus on integrating and refining the AI technologies required. While the initial launch will take place in prisons, Tweed believes the platform could have broader applications once proven effective in the challenging environment of the criminal justice system.

By highlighting the potential benefits of advanced, personalised education technology, Tweed emphasises the need to “use AI for good,” particularly for vulnerable or underserved communities. He hopes the introduction of this AI system into prisons will reduce the technological gap between incarcerated individuals and the wider world, ultimately offering them a better chance to reintegrate successfully into society.

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Prisoners could get ‘AI cellmate’ to help them learn

Amazon has begun the process of introducing same-day drone deliveries from its warehouse in Darlington, County Durham, in what could be a major milestone for its Prime Air service in the UK.

The technology giant is holding a public meeting in the area this week to seek permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to operate drones in the airspace around its facility on the edge of the town.

Under the proposed plan, Amazon will hire a local team to oversee drone take-off and landing on the site. Once the necessary approvals are in place, customers living within 7.5 miles of the warehouse, excluding zones deemed unsuitable for drone flights, will be able to opt for the service. Before using Prime Air, Amazon representatives will check each property to ensure there is a suitable area for drone drops, and customers will then place a lightweight landing pad in their garden which the drone can identify from above.

The company already gained CAA approval in August 2023 for beyond-line-of-sight tests at an undisclosed UK trial site. Prime Air deliveries have also operated in parts of the United States—specifically Texas and Arizona—and in Italy, although services were recently paused after test crashes in Oregon prompted a software update. Although Amazon initially aimed to launch drone deliveries in the UK and Italy before the end of 2024, that timetable has slipped, leaving the precise launch date for Darlington’s service unclear.

Amazon’s history with drone deliveries dates back to a successful pilot near Cambridge in 2016, followed by a scaling back of its UK drone programme in 2021. More recent drone trials in Italy’s San Salvo, as well as tests in Lockeford (California) and Oregon, have also encountered setbacks, with two drones crashing in rain conditions in Oregon. According to Amazon, those accidents were not the main reason for the temporary halt, and the firm is rolling out a software update to address the issue.

Meanwhile, the UK as a whole is stepping up its efforts to support commercial drone use. Royal Mail has tested delivering post by drone to remote communities, including in the Shetland Islands, and has extended a similar programme in Orkney until at least February 2026. BT has invested £5 million in a consortium aiming to establish a 165-mile “drone superhighway” across southern and central England, part of wider plans for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights under new CAA regulations.

Although Amazon has not announced a specific timeline for operations in Darlington, the company says this represents an “exciting step forward.” Securing regulatory approval and completing essential infrastructure are the final hurdles, and Amazon stresses it will continue working closely with local residents and the CAA before fully rolling out its Prime Air service in the region.

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Amazon looks to launch prime air drone deliveries in North-East England

Rents across the UK have fallen slightly for the first time in more than five years—although tenants in London are still seeing new highs, according to fresh data from Rightmove.

Outside the capital, advertised rental prices dipped by 0.2% to an average of £1,341 per month, the first such decline since late 2019.

Although the monthly difference equates to just £3, Rightmove describes it as a “key milestone,” reflecting a slowly improving balance between supply and demand in the rental market. Rents are still 4.7% higher than a year ago, but that is well below the inflation peak of 12% in 2022.

Colleen Babcock, Rightmove’s head of trade marketing, attributes the easing to more rental properties entering the market—up 13% on last year—while the number of prospective tenants has fallen by 16%. The northeast of England has led the way in supply growth. Babcock believes some former renters have transitioned into home ownership, thanks to stabilising mortgage rates and slower house price growth.

Still, demand for rental homes remains at double the pre-pandemic norm, with each property attracting around ten applicants on average. This persistent imbalance has pushed rents 64% higher outside London since the first lockdown in March 2020. During the same period, London rents have risen by 28%.

In contrast to the modest decline elsewhere, average rents in the capital have climbed to a record £2,695 per month, marking new highs in every quarter since late 2021. That said, London’s annual increase of 2.4% is the lowest in almost four years.

“We’re seeing a cooling of what has been a ferociously hot rental market,” said Alex Bloxham, head of residential lettings at Bidwells, who notes that any continued improvement in supply should put downward pressure on rents.

Meanwhile, Labour’s proposed Renters’ Rights Bill, which aims to enhance tenant security and rights, could be introduced later this year. Some landlords have voiced concerns about these reforms, but Rightmove says it has not observed any immediate impact on current market conditions.

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UK rents slip for the first time since 2019, but London remains at record highs

Steep price cuts in furniture and fashion have driven retail prices in Britain down this month, though the broader rate of decline has begun to slow.

According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and market research firm NielsenIQ, shop prices slipped by 0.7% year-on-year in January—less than the 1% annual fall recorded in December.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, explained the trend: “Extensive January sales were good news for bargain hunters, but less good news for retailers needing to shift excess stock.” The non-food sector, which includes furniture and fashion, recorded a 1.8% year-on-year decline, compared to a 2.4% drop in December when Black Friday deals enticed Christmas shoppers.

Food price inflation eased to 1.6% from 1.8%, with fresh food inflation dipping to 0.9% from 1.2%. However, ambient food products—tinned and dried goods—experienced a month-on-month rise of 1%, led by sugar, chocolates and alcohol. The annual ambient inflation rate still edged down to 2.5% from 2.8%.

Despite the current discounting, Dickinson warned that price cuts “may not last much longer” as retailers face £7bn of new costs announced in the budget. Higher national insurance contributions for employers, the increased National Living Wage and a new packaging levy are all expected to push up prices.

The BRC’s figures often foreshadow the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) Consumer Price Index (CPI), which dropped unexpectedly to 2.5% in December. The next CPI data, covering January, is due on 19 February, with analysts forecasting a rise in inflation due to Ofgem’s energy price cap increase and new government policies. Even so, the Bank of England is widely expected to cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.5% at its 6 February meeting, reflecting the UK’s sluggish economic growth.

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Steep discounts on furniture and fashion weigh on January retail prices