News

Rachel Reeves’s proposed changes to agricultural relief on inheritance tax—dubbed the “tractor tax”—may impact five times more farmers than the government has estimated, according to the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV).

The Treasury has stated that the changes will affect approximately 500 farmers each year. However, Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the CAAV, argues that this figure is incorrect due to a misunderstanding of the farming industry’s complexities. He asserts that the new measures will actually impact around 2,500 farmers annually.

Moody contends that the Treasury’s analysis overlooks farmers who only claim Business Property Relief (BPR) and not Agricultural Property Relief (APR). This includes individuals who own land but not the farmhouse, those in farming partnerships, tenant farmers without ownership of land or buildings, and farmers who are shareholders in family companies.

“They’re wrong because they’re working on an incomplete picture,” Moody said. “What they got wrong is, they didn’t know what to ask and HMRC couldn’t answer them even if they had.”

He estimates that over a generation, about 75,000 farms will be affected by the changes.

Currently, farmers can claim up to 100% relief on inheritance tax for their land and buildings through APR and for operational equipment and livestock via BPR. Starting from April 2026, only the first £1 million of their combined land and business assets will qualify for 100% relief under the new rules. Any amount above this threshold will be subject to inheritance tax at an effective rate of 20%—half the standard rate of 40%.

The government argues that farmers can effectively have a nil-rate tax band of £1.5 million each, allowing a married couple to pass on up to £3 million in assets tax-free. This calculation includes personal inheritance tax allowances. However, Moody disputes this, stating that these thresholds are personal and should not be applied to business assets.

“That seems to me to be basically wrong,” he commented. “If you’re throwing all that against the farm then actually what you’re doing is saying all of your personal effects will be taxed at 40%.”

The BBC Verify fact-checking service has supported the Treasury’s estimates, and the government has publicized this analysis. Sir Keir Starmer remarked, “All of you can check out what that means in terms of the impact. I think the BBC has already done it.”

A government spokesperson stated: “Our commitment to our farmers is steadfast—we have committed £5 billion to the farming budget over two years, including more money than ever for sustainable food production… We have been clear since this change was announced that around 500 claims of Agricultural and Business Property Relief each year will be impacted… It is not possible to accurately infer inheritance tax liability from farm net worth figures as there are different circumstances affecting each farm.”

Moody criticises the government’s and BBC’s analyses for not fully understanding the farming industry, leading to underestimations of the policy’s impact. He emphasises that many farmers, such as tenant farmers, may not benefit from certain tax allowances and that the changes could significantly affect their financial standing.

Read more:
Tractor Tax Could Affect Five Times More Farmers Than Government Claims, Expert Warns

Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, has announced it will no longer consider race and gender policies when awarding supplier contracts after facing pressure from conservative activist Robby Starbuck.

The company is rolling back several diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives following criticism that they were harmful to certain groups.

As part of the changes, Walmart is winding down the Center for Racial Equity, a non-profit organisation that received $100 million in funding from the retailer in 2020. The company will also end some racial equity staff training, review its support for Pride events, and withdraw from rankings by the Human Rights Campaign, an LGBT advocacy group.

Additionally, Walmart stated it would monitor online merchants for sexual or transgender products marketed to children and remove items deemed inappropriate.

The commitments come after Robby Starbuck, a conservative “anti-woke” activist and former music video director, threatened to mobilise his 700,000 followers on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to boycott Walmart ahead of Black Friday if changes were not made. In a post on X, Starbuck said: “I’m happy to have secured these changes before Christmas when shoppers have very few large retail brands they can spend money with who aren’t pushing woke policies.”

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, who has been a vocal critic of DEI policies, amplified the news by reposting an article about Walmart’s decision, commenting: “The tide has turned.”

Walmart, which employs 2.1 million people and has a market valuation of about $740 billion, claimed it was already reviewing some of its DEI policies prior to conversations with Starbuck. The company stated: “We are willing to change alongside our associates and customers who represent all of America.”

John Furner, president and chief executive of Walmart US, addressed the policy changes during an interview with CBS News, saying: “Like many companies all across the United States, we’ve been on a journey and we continue to be on a journey. And what we’re trying to do is ensure that every customer, every associate, feels welcome here to shop, and to feel like they belong.”

In October, Walmart reported that in the past financial year it sourced more than $13 billion in goods and services from diverse suppliers, including companies owned or operated by veterans, people with disabilities, members of the LGBT community, women, and people of colour. The retailer’s latest culture and diversity report indicated that people of colour represented about 51% of its total US workforce, with 59% of new hires being people of colour and 49% being women.

The company’s decision has sparked mixed reactions. While conservative activists like Starbuck applaud the move towards “corporate neutrality,” others have criticised Walmart for potentially undermining efforts towards diversity and inclusion. Users of Bluesky, a social media platform rivaling X, described Walmart as “disgusting” and “cowards” following the announcement.

Walmart now faces the challenge of balancing the demands of different stakeholder groups, as it risks losing customers who support DEI initiatives while trying to appease those who oppose them.

Read more:
Walmart scales back diversity initiatives after pressure from conservative activist

Aston Martin Lagonda, the UK’s only listed carmaker, has issued a second profit warning in as many months and announced a £210 million fundraising effort. The company’s shares hit a two-year low, dropping 5.5% to 102p in early trading on Wednesday.

The Midlands-based luxury car manufacturer revealed late on Tuesday that it plans to raise £110 million in new equity from shareholders and secure an additional £100 million in debt financing at interest rates exceeding 10%. The funds aim to support the company’s ongoing operations and future growth initiatives.

Aston Martin reported delays in delivering about half of its expected £2 million Valiant supercars, leading to a reduction in projected operating profits. The company now expects operating profits to be between £270 million and £280 million, down from the previously anticipated £285 million.

Adrian Hallmark, who became the company’s fifth chief executive in as many years this September, had already revised down financial prospects in a trading update seven weeks prior. Following the latest adjustment and news of refinancing, Hallmark stated: “We are already taking decisive actions to better position the group for the future, including a more balanced production and delivery profile in the coming quarters. These efforts will deliver enhanced operational and financial performance in 2025 and beyond. The financing we are undertaking supports our growth and provides the investment to continue with future product innovation.”

In a company statement, Aston Martin said the new financing would assist in funding its £2 billion commitment between 2023 and 2027, which includes the company’s delayed transition to electric vehicle production.

The new shares have been placed at 100p, representing a 7.3% discount to Tuesday’s closing price. Of the £110 million raised through new shares, approximately £50 million came from Yew Tree Holdings, led by Chairman Lawrence Stroll, whose stake had been reduced to 26% after previous fundraisings.

An additional £23 million was contributed by strategic investors, including Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which previously held a 19% stake; China’s automotive group Geely, holding 18%; and technology partners Mercedes-Benz and Lucid Motors, which held 9% and 4% respectively.

Existing shareholders who did not participate in the new share issue will see their holdings diluted by about 13.5%.

According to stockbroker Jefferies, the new debt will raise Aston Martin’s total group debt to £1.47 billion, with net debt (after cash holdings) at £1.12 billion—more than four times the projected operating earnings. The annual interest expense is expected to increase to £130 million.

Philippe Houchois, an analyst at Jefferies, commented that the fundraising would help Aston Martin avoid a “zombie balance sheet,” meaning insufficient liquidity to achieve its planned £500 million operating profit next year.

Read more:
Aston Martin issues profit warning and announces £210m fundraising

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has released new guidance cautioning freelancers, contractors, and consultants about the risks associated with Managed Service Companies (MSCs)—complex tax arrangements that could leave independent workers facing tax bills running into tens of thousands of pounds.

Introduced in 2007, the MSC legislation aims to combat perceived tax abuse by freelancers who provide their services via limited companies set up primarily to avoid tax liabilities. These companies, controlled by a third party—often an accountant—are known as Managed Service Companies. HMRC contends that freelancers should not receive the tax benefits of running their own business if the business is effectively managed by someone else and used merely as a vehicle to reduce tax payments.

Under the MSC rules, if a freelancer’s business is deemed to be an MSC, HMRC will require that all income generated is subject to PAYE tax and National Insurance contributions. This could equate to up to 40% of the income earned by the MSC since its inception, once taxes, interest, and possible penalties are applied.

The latest guidance, published on 21st November, highlights the substantial risks for freelancers operating via MSCs. Currently, in an ongoing case, over 1,000 contract workers are under investigation by HMRC for allegedly breaching MSC legislation. Of the more than 100 contractors being supported by tax compliance firm Qdos, the average tax liability pursued by HMRC stands at £57,000, amounting to a collective total of £5.9 million.

Seb Maley, CEO of Qdos, emphasised the importance of vigilance among freelancers: “HMRC is right to put the MSC legislation back on the radar of the hundreds of thousands of contract workers it can impact. These notoriously complex tax rules can leave freelancers with staggering tax bills, often through no real fault of their own. All too often, these unsuspecting freelancers have been advised to work via MSCs by third parties.”

He added: “The trouble with these rules is that freelancers caught up in MSCs aren’t motivated to avoid tax. Typically, they will have engaged an accountant that specialises in their industry and in forming limited companies. It smacks of unfairness, but the fact of the matter is that if you fall into the trap of working through an MSC, the tax office could well demand up to 40% of everything you’ve earned through your company to date.”

Freelancers are urged to review their working arrangements and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with HMRC regulations. The potential financial implications of being deemed an MSC are significant and could have long-term effects on independent workers’ livelihoods.

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Freelancers warned of hefty tax bills as HMRC issues new guidance on managed service companies

The UK’s space sector is expanding at a pace surpassing the overall economy, contributing over £17.5 billion annually and employing more than 45,000 people.

Supporting £360 billion in economic activity through satellite infrastructure, the industry has become a significant player on the global stage.

Merger and acquisition (M&A) activity within the sector has surged over the past decade, leaping from just five transactions in 2013 to twenty-seven in 2023, according to advisory firm Heligan Group. This growth is expected to continue into 2025, driven by increasing government funding, decreasing launch costs, and the adoption of innovative technologies like satellite-based quantum key distribution.

Simon Heath, Partner at Heligan Group, commented: “Advances in technology such as reusable rockets, orbital refuelling, and in-space manufacturing via 3D printing are driving a wave of innovation in the space sector. A prominent development for the UK is the growth of small satellite technologies, which are revolutionising the industry by providing cost-effective and accessible satellite services.”

UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are playing a transformative role in the global space industry. Specialising in satellite components, propulsion systems, and space data analytics, many are outpacing larger firms by focusing on niche technologies. There’s optimism that a company on the scale of SpaceX could emerge from the UK over the next decade, although there’s a rising risk of SMEs being acquired by larger integrators.

Heath continued: “Most UK space SMEs operate outside traditional aerospace hubs, decentralising the industry and fostering innovation across the country. This broader talent base is crucial for the long-term competitiveness of the UK space industry. However, SMEs face growing challenges, including reliance on large upfront investments, cautious investors due to long timelines, and increasingly competitive government funds.”

Access to growth finance and investment in the UK space sector has improved in recent years but remains mixed. Trends indicate increasing interest from venture capitalists and corporate investors. Major aerospace and defence organisations like Airbus and BAE Systems are actively investing through their corporate venture arms. The UK government has also remained a key player, offering funds and grants through the UK Space Agency and Innovate UK.

Heath added: “Over the next 24 months, we will see a variety of themes driving activity in the UK space sector. Space infrastructure investment will be a primary concern as strengthening the UK’s space resilience is a national security priority. There will also be consolidation, with the market being highly fragmented and full of young, IP-rich, and fast-growing businesses. Lastly, technological advancements such as innovations in small satellite systems and reusable launch vehicles are lowering entry barriers, reducing investment risks, and creating new opportunities for space startups.

“It is exciting to see the UK position itself to become a leading force in the global space economy. Although it currently lags behind other nations in space launch capacity, this will change with multiple launches planned from UK soil in 2025, with UK SMEs playing a bigger role than ever. Rapid technological advancements and escalating geopolitical tensions have intensified reliance on private sector innovation, with sovereignty playing an important role in supply chains.”

He concluded: “While the space sector is growing, it is a typically cash-hungry industry with profitability for many of the UK’s brightest companies still several years away. However, the space sector is one area where the UK government is highly supportive, and this is mirrored in the private sector, with several VC investors solely focusing on frontier technologies. 2025 will be an interesting year for the UK space sector as interest from venture capitalists and corporate investors continues to grow.”

Read more:
UK space sector outpaces economy as M&A activity skyrockets

Vauxhall’s parent company, Stellantis, has announced plans to close its van manufacturing plant in Luton next April, putting more than 1,100 jobs at risk.

The decision comes amid mounting pressures from the UK government’s stringent electric vehicle (EV) sales targets, part of the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate.

Stellantis, which also owns Peugeot, Citroën, and Fiat, intends to consolidate its UK operations by focusing production at its Ellesmere Port facility in Cheshire. The plant has already received a £100 million investment to produce electric vehicles and currently manufactures smaller electric vans such as the Citroën e-Berlingo and the Vauxhall Combo Electric. An additional £50 million investment is planned to boost production capacity at Ellesmere Port.

The closure marks the end of over a century of manufacturing history in Luton, where Vauxhall first established operations in 1905. The Luton plant has been a significant part of the local economy, producing commercial vehicles since 1932 and contributing to the town’s industrial heritage.

Stellantis’s decision follows warnings earlier this year that both its UK plants were at risk due to government pressures to meet ambitious EV sales targets. The ZEV mandate requires car manufacturers to ensure that 22% of their sales are zero-emission vehicles by the end of this year—a target many firms are struggling to meet. Companies face fines of £15,000 for each petrol or diesel car sold beyond the target and £18,000 for each non-compliant van.

Labour’s transport secretary, Louise Haigh, has maintained a firm stance on the targets, despite industry pleas for flexibility. Stellantis had previously considered retooling the Luton plant to produce electric vans exclusively, including the electric version of the Vauxhall Vivaro—the UK’s best-selling electric van. However, this plan appears to have been abandoned in light of the ongoing challenges.

Employees at the Luton plant were informed of the closure, with the company offering relocation packages for those willing to move to Ellesmere Port and support for those seeking new employment. Trade union Unite described the proposal as “a complete slap in the face for our members in Luton,” pledging to support workers and urging the government to intervene.

Rachel Hopkins, Labour MP for Luton South, expressed deep concern over the announcement, highlighting the plant’s significance to the local economy and its role in Luton’s heritage.

Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, stating that the transition to electric vehicles should not come at the expense of jobs. A government spokesperson emphasized ongoing support for the automotive industry, citing over £300 million invested to promote zero-emission vehicles and £2 billion to aid domestic manufacturing transitions.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) called the announcement “a major concern” for UK automotive manufacturing and urged the government to review the regulations and introduce measures to enhance competitiveness.

Stellantis’s move reflects wider concerns within the automotive sector regarding the ZEV mandate and the push towards electrification. Manufacturers like Ford and Nissan have also voiced apprehensions, with Ford recently announcing 800 job cuts in the UK and Nissan warning of potential irreversible damage to the industry if mandates are not eased.

Car makers argue that stringent targets, combined with a lack of consumer incentives and infrastructure challenges, make it difficult to meet government expectations. The SMMT highlighted that as of October, battery electric vehicles accounted for only 18.1% of the UK’s new car sales, falling short of the mandate’s requirements.

Competition from abroad, particularly from Chinese manufacturers offering budget EVs, adds to the pressure on UK firms. Industry leaders are calling for greater flexibility and support to navigate the transition without jeopardizing jobs and the future of UK automotive manufacturing.

Read more:
Vauxhall to close Luton plant, over 1,100 jobs at risk amid EV mandate pressures

Businesses of all sizes, particularly small ones, face a unique challenge: maintaining seamless communication with their clients. Whether fostering relationships, addressing concerns, or closing sales, effective communication is at the heart of a thriving enterprise.

The good news? The right tools can transform your business’s client communication game. Here’s a breakdown of the essential customer communication tools that every small business should consider, complete with tips and insights to make them work for you.

Why Client Communication Matters More Than Ever?

Did you know that 86% of customers are willing to pay more for a better customer experience? Communication plays a massive role in creating that experience. Whether responding quickly to inquiries or tailoring your messages, the tools you choose can enhance—or hinder—your interactions. For small businesses, the stakes are high; repeat customers are often the backbone of success, and stellar communication keeps them coming back.

Top Communication Tools for Small Businesses

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software

No longer just for large corporations, CRM tools are indispensable for small businesses. They consolidate client information, track communication history, and automate follow-ups. With platforms like HubSpot or Zoho CRM, you can personalize messages and avoid losing touch with your customers.

Stat to know: Companies using CRM software experience a 29% increase in sales on average.
Pro tip: Start with free or budget-friendly versions before committing to premium plans.

Live Chat Software

When customers visit your website, they often need quick answers. Live chat tools like Tidio or LiveChat provide instant communication and boost user satisfaction.

Why it’s vital: Studies show 79% of consumers prefer live chat over email or phone.
Unpredictable twist: Beyond customer queries, use live chat to gather feedback or upsell products.

Call Recording Tools

Customers leave a huge amount of information for your support team and it is too presumptuous not to use this data. Moreover, you can record phone calls without serious investments in equipment. All you need is the Call Recorder for iPhone app. This is a call recorder service that offers flexible subscription levels, excellent quality and features for secure storage. Despite the fact that this is a full-featured call recording software, it is extremely undemanding and easy to implement in an organization of any size.

Why it’s essential: 61% of businesses say they use call recordings to enhance training and quality assurance.
Unpredictable bonus: These tools can also help resolve disputes by providing a clear record of what was said.
Pro tip: Ensure you comply with local regulations by obtaining consent before recording.

Social Media Management Tools

Your clients are on social media—are you? Tools like Hootsuite or Buffer make managing multiple platforms a breeze, enabling you to schedule posts, respond to messages, and monitor engagement.

Stat to ponder: 54% of customers use social media to research products before buying.
Unpredictable insight: A consistent social media presence builds trust even before a customer reaches out.

Video Conferencing Solutions

For businesses requiring face-to-face interactions, video tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams are essential. They bridge the gap between in-person meetings and digital convenience.

Fun fact: Video calls result in a 34% higher success rate for client meetings compared to emails.
Extra perk: Use video calls to host Q&A sessions or product demonstrations.

Email Marketing Platforms

Despite the rise of newer communication methods, email remains king. Tools like Mailchimp and Constant Contacthelp you craft professional campaigns, automate messages, and analyze performance.

Stat to consider: Email marketing has an ROI of 4200%—yes, $42 for every $1 spent!
Pro tip: Use segmentation to send highly targeted emails that resonate with specific client needs.

Customer Feedback Tools

Knowing what your clients think is half the battle. Tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms allow you to gather insights, tweak your strategy, and show customers you value their opinions.

Key stat: 77% of customers view brands more favorably if they seek and act on feedback.
Surprise benefit: Collecting feedback post-purchase can encourage repeat business.

Implementing the Tools Effectively

Of course, tools alone won’t solve all communication challenges. The way you use them matters:

Integration is key. Many tools, like CRMs and email platforms, can sync, creating a unified workflow.
Consistency wins. Regularly use these tools to establish a predictable and reliable presence.
Train your team. Even the best software fails if your team doesn’t know how to use it effectively.

Final Thoughts

Investing in tools for communication is not just about solving immediate issues; it’s about setting your small business up for long-term success. From the power of a well-timed email to the efficiency of live chat, each tool adds a layer of professionalism and connection that clients will appreciate. And remember: communication is not static. Regularly evaluate your tools, update your strategies, and listen to your clients’ needs.

When you get communication right, you don’t just gain clients—you build relationships. And in business, that makes all the difference.

Read more:
Top Tools Every Small Business Should Invest In For Better Client Communication

The UK’s Leus Developments is completing several projects in Limassol, Cyprus.

With two sites finished and already rented out, and two more being completed over the next two years, Business Matters heard from founder Dmitry Leus to learn more about the company’s real estate projects and the continued appeal of Cyprus for UK investors.

Leus has been dividing his time between London and Cyprus for the past several years, as Leus Developments’ four Limassol real estate projects each get closer to the finish line. Two have already been completed and are rented out: Neapolis I and Neapolis II. Leus seems pleased with the reception these completed buildings have received: “It’s great to see the end result, with happy residents. Neapolis I was always going to be appealing, with the amazing panoramic views, and just four minutes’ walk to the seaside, and the buzz of restaurants and shops close by. The architecture of Neapolis II, for me, is something special.”

Next up for Leus Developments will be their sea view Agios Athanasios development, due in December this year. It features 22 apartments, including one, two, and three bedroom units, as well as three penthouses that each have a private rooftop terrace. Leus says: “We’re especially looking forward to seeing people’s reaction to the site’s internal garden with its swimming pool. This development feels especially modern, catering especially well to those who work from home and host guests.” That will be closely followed by City Tower, premium Limassol office space, due to be completed in January 2025. Leus explains the appeal: “It’s in a great location, and we know the large roof-garden will be ideal for corporate events and as an outdoor space for employees.”

The luxurious Mandarin Park Tower is due for completion in January 2027. It will consist of 29 high end apartments, including triplex penthouses with private roof gardens, enjoying panoramic sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows, with elegant living areas, and Italian marble finishes in the kitchens and bathrooms. There will be a private clubhouse onsite and the lobby is designed by the renowned Luxury Antonovich Design Studio.

Leus Developments consider Cyprus the ideal location for their projects. Quality of life on the island and the consistently strong economy mean their clients are committed to Cyprus. For them, the island is ideally located for accessing multiple markets and travel within Europe and to Africa and Asia. The EU status of the island is another draw.

Leus explains why he and other British companies are comfortable investing in Cyprus: “It’s truly a European business environment here in Cyprus. We enjoy high quality professional services and infrastructure here. We see a high demand for real estate and good rental yields. It’s also a very safe place to expect a significant return on long term investment. The economy is doing very well There is a strong legal system and it feels familiar because it’s based on British common law and is trusted internationally.”

He adds: “It’s also just a truly great place to live and to work. Whether we are talking about lifestyle, culture, the sunshine quota or coastal living, this island has so much to offer.”

Leus concludes by saying: “We are proud to contribute very high quality living and working spaces to Cyprus. So much has gone into each project, starting from the tremendous Limassol locations, to securing the very best architecture to insisting on the very best of materials and equipment for each aspect of our sites.”

Read more:
Dmitry Leus: The continued appeal of Cyprus for UK investors

Few would argue that the digital world continues to gather pace exponentially as new innovations such as the cloud and AI tools evolving at alarming speeds.

This can often leave small to medium enterprises (SMEs) facing unique challenges when it comes to managing their IT needs. From limited budgets to ever-evolving cybersecurity threats, staying on top of technology now often feels like a full-time job – which is where IT support services come in. Managed IT support allows SMEs to completely outsource their IT needs to a third party, freeing up time and resources to plough back into the business, and it often comes at a lower price than keeping your IT in house.

Why Outsourced IT Support Matters for SMEs

Outsourced IT support is so much more than just day-to-day troubleshooting. It can solve a lot of the headaches of IT, including getting more from a limited budget and providing robust protection against growing cybersecurity threats. By outsourcing IT support services, SMEs gain access to expert guidance, continuous monitoring and cost-effective systems that support long-term success. It’s not always possible for small businesses to have a full in-house IT team, but for SMEs aiming to stay competitive in our evolving digital world, outsourced IT support is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Let’s explore five headline ways that managed IT support can transform your business.

1. Cost Savings and Predictable Expenses

Running an internal IT team as a small- to medium-sized business owner can be prohibitively expensive, especially when you factor in recruitment, wages, training, certifications and never-ending equipment upgrades. Managed IT support offers a budget-friendly alternative, providing access to expert IT support services without the overheads of employing a full-time team.

Predictable expenses are a boon to SMEs, which helps enormously with financial planning and also reduces costs related to hardware failures. Top providers can even provide onsite IT support should you still want experts on your premises, though much of the monitoring and system updating can be done remotely.

Managed IT leverages economies of scale, offering access to the latest tools and technologies at a fraction of the cost of sourcing them independently. If you’re looking to maximise your budgets while maintaining robust IT infrastructure, managed IT support is the smart, scalable solution.

2. Access to Expertise

Small businesses often lack the resources to employ a fully staffed IT team with the broad expertise needed to stay afloat in the current digital climate. Outsourcing bridges this gap, giving you access to seasoned professionals who are highly skilled in all the latest technologies. From cloud solutions to cybersecurity, these specialists bring in-depth knowledge to your systems and prevent costly mistakes. Whether you need guidance on complex issues or support for everyday challenges, having experts on call 24/7 ensures your business remains efficient and secure. With IT support services, small businesses can compete on a level playing field with larger organisations without the expense of in-house expertise.

3. Proactive Maintenance and Monitoring

Put simply, proactive maintenance and monitoring is the art of identifying potential problems and solving them before they cause your business any downtime. This is useful to SMEs as even the smallest of issues can quickly snowball and cause major disruptions to the productivity of your enterprise. From addressing system vulnerabilities, updating software and detecting unusual network activity as soon as possible, this approach keeps your IT systems running smoothly. Small business owners and managers can rest assured that while they focus on their departments and growing the business, the IT side of things is robustly monitored and protected by cutting edge solutions and expert engineers.

4. Enhanced Cybersecurity

It’s a sad fact that cybersecurity is one of the biggest challenges SMEs face today. Threats like phishing, ransomware and data breaches are constantly on the rise, but expert IT services provide an essential safeguard, offering advanced protection that in-house teams often can’t match. Robust measures such as firewalls, multi-factor authentication and real-time threat monitoring prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited, and the skill levels and systems in use to keep your business safe are more efficient and reliable at scale, something that’s challenging without an expert partner. Expert providers of managed IT support like Bold IT ensure your systems stay secure while your team focusses on business priorities. Ultimately, outsourced IT doesn’t just protect your data – it protects your reputation.

5. Scalability and Growth

It’s one thing being a small- or medium-sized business, but you probably have growth in your sights. This means you need an IT company that can grow alongside you, without holding you back in any way. The best IT support services not only scale with you but can also take a huge financial burden off your business by offering hardware as a service. This means you never again need to pay upfront for a major hardware and systems upgrade, you can instead lease your equipment and upgrade it to the latest technology at the end of every lease period, keeping you at the cutting edge.

Practical Takeaways for Small Businesses

External IT support is a game-changer for SMEs seeking maximum protection and value. By outsourcing your IT, you gain access to cutting-edge expertise, transparent, predictable expenses and endlessly scalable solutions tailored to your growth. Whether it’s round-the-clock monitoring, proactive maintenance or onsite IT support when you need it most, the right provider doesn’t just solve today’s challenges – it equips your business to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.

Read more:
How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Managed IT Support

The Instagram Swipe Up feature is a powerful option that allows users to add clickable links to their Stories. This feature allows viewers to instantly visit an external website or landing page once they “swipe up”.

Instead of asking users to visit a website through multiple steps, the Swipe Up feature simplifies the process and leads to immediate action.

This way businesses and influencers can promote blog posts and drive traffic directly to products, services or content. So, the swipe up feature not only engages followers but also increases reach and conversions. Let’s tell you how to drive more traffic with Instagram swipe up feature with some effective strategies.

Who Gets the Swipe-Up Option on Instagram

Not everyone has access to the swipe up feature on Instagram. The platform requires users to meet specific eligibility criteria. You need to get 10,000 followers on Instagram or have a verified account to access the Swipe-Up feature regardless of follower count. By limiting access, Instagram prevents spammy or irrelevant content from linking to external sites. Therefore, focusing on verifying and growing your account is an essential step to unlock this benefit.

How to Effectively Use the Swipe Up on Instagram

Here some ways to get more traffic with Instagram Swipe Up feature:

1. Purchase Instagram Story Views

Buying Instagram story views quickly gives you more story’s visibility and profile’s credibility on the platform. It attracts organic viewership and boosts the chances that more people will interact with your Swipe-Up link. This drives more traffic to your desired destination over time.

When it comes to purchasing Instagram Story views, it’s essential to choose a reliable and reputable provider.  You should purchase Instagram story views from GetAFollower because they deliver 100% authentic services. These views are real and have high retention rates. Plus, with GetAFollower’s secure payment options and money back guarantee, you can confidently invest in growing traffic with your Instagram story’s swipe up feature.

2. Add Clear CTAs

Clear and compelling call-to-actions (CTAs) are vital to guiding viewers toward your Swipe-Up link. Without them viewers may not understand what action to take which can lead to fewer swipes. This is because a strong CTA creates a sense of urgency or excitement which promotes viewers to take the desired action immediately.

The CTAs should be visible and easy to understand like “Swipe Up to Learn More” or “Get It Now”. Use bold and contrasting colors to make the CTA stand out from the rest of the story. Additionally, position your CTA toward the end of the story where users are most likely to take action.

3. Share Your Landing Pages

Linking your Instagram stories to targeted landing pages is a great way to get more visitors on a specific web page. This strategy can help convert followers into customers or visitors by providing them with relevant and focused information. To make the most out of this strategy you should create landing pages that are directly tied to the message in your story.

For instance, if you’re showcasing a product, link to a product page that includes more details. Also, focus on mobile optimization since most Instagram users are browsing on their phones. So, your landing pages should load quickly and be easy to navigate.

4. Use Instagram Highlights

Keep your stories and the swipe-up feature accessible long after they disappear from the main feed through Instagram highlights. Highlights allow fleeting users and new followers to view important content at any time even after the story disappears. This prolongs the impact of your stories.

To make highlights, categorize important stories and organize them by themes like product launches, promotions or tutorials. Be mindful of the names and cover images for each highlight to make them appealing and easy to navigate. Use short, clear titles that indicate the content inside, so followers know exactly what they’ll find when they tap through.

5. Promote Your Videos

Video content is a powerful way to engage followers and prompt them to swipe up. It captures attention, builds excitement and offers more room for creativity compared to static images. So create videos like behind-the-scenes clips, product demos and tutorials for your stories.

When posting videos, make sure the content is high quality. The thumbnail should be visually appealing to grab attention right away. Focus on videos that solve problems, provide valuable insights or give a sneak peek into exclusive content. Moreover, you should keep the video concise and to the point while motivating viewers to swipe up for more.

6. Share Stories at the Best Times

You’re more likely to get a reaction from your viewers when you share stories when your audience is most active. This is because optimal posting times can lead to higher views and interactions, making your swipe-up links more effective.

Check your Instagram Insights for audience activity to determine the best times to post. If you don’t have access to insights then experiment with different posting times and track the results. Try posting at various times throughout the day and monitor the number of story views and swipe-ups. Adjust your marketing strategy based on which times give you the best engagement.

7. Work with Other Influencers

Working with content creators is an effective way to gain exposure and get more swipe-ups. These collaborations can help you blow up on Instagram by tapping into a fresh audience and building credibility through the influencer’s endorsement. Choose partners whose followers align with your brand or product.

Try to collaborate on creative content that feels authentic to both your audiences. Make sure the swipe-up links in these stories are clear and easy to follow. Influencer partnerships work best when they feel genuine, so avoid overly promotional content. Instead, focus on delivering value through fun or informative stories that maintain authenticity.

8. Showcase Your Products

You can generate interest and direct followers to product pages by strategically highlighting items in your stories. Product showcases can be especially effective during sales events, product launches or limited time offers. This will make swipe up links more likely to lead to conversions.

Show your products in visually appealing content that grabs attention. Use high quality images, videos or demos to highlight the features and benefits of your products. To make your story more interactive, include calls to action that prompt followers to swipe up. For example, use phrases like “Shop now” or “Tap to buy” to create a sense of urgency and make it easy for followers to make a purchase.

9. Use Analytics to Track Performance

You should analyze key metrics to adjust your strategies for better results and optimize future campaigns. This helps you create content that drives more conversions and makes your Instagram presence more effective. To get started, use Instagram Insights to monitor your story performance.

Focus on performance metrics which reveals how your audience interacted with it. Pay attention to link clicks to gauge how effective your swipe-up links are. This data will give you a clear picture of what’s working and what needs improvement. Also experiment with different content formats and link placements to see what drives the best results.

Conclusion

Using the swipe-up feature on Instagram can significantly enhance your engagement and drive traffic to your desired destinations. Implement the above shared strategies and stay consistent with your efforts to leverage this tool. These tips and tricks will help you make the most of the swipe up feature so you can connect with your target audience more directly. Get ready to use the swipe feature on your Instagram stories to build brand awareness, increase sales or generate more website traffic!

Read more:
How to Drive More Traffic with Instagram Swipe-Up Feature