Brits are drinking less and swapping late nights for early morning food and drink experiences, and it’s having a big impact on the already-pessimistic hospitality sector.

According to recent YouGov data, nearly a quarter of UK adults say they don’t drink in pubs, bars, or restaurants.

At the same time, dessert shops and bakeries are seeing a rise in popularity, suggesting that many are trading a cheeky pint for a sweet treat and a hangover-free morning. 

So, as traditional peak times shift, how can hospitality businesses adapt and reposition themselves to meet these changing customer needs?

What’s behind Britain’s new early-bird culture?

In April, the government announced plans to support pubs, bars, and restaurants. The Mayor of London will soon have the power to review blocked licensing applications, a move that could lead to more alfresco dining and later opening hours in the capital.

But this might be too little, too late. Consumer habits are already shifting toward an ‘early-bird culture’. 

Wellness is rapidly climbing the public agenda, the cost of living makes nights out less appealing, and social media now champions moderation with trends like #SoberCurious. It’s not exactly a climate where the night-time economy can thrive.

In response, the UK is seeing less clubbing, earlier bedtimes, and a rise in Insta-famous bakeries and dessert spots. In the YouGov poll, 22% of Brits said they don’t drink alcohol while out anymore. Among Gen Z, 26% are choosing to skip the booze.

The impact on balance sheets is already clear. This Dry January, beverage sales dropped 9% in the same period in 2024, according to the Morning Advertiser. As well, the rise of low- and no-alcohol alternatives signals a clear shift in drinking habits.

How pubs, bars, and restaurants can adapt

While it’s clear that times are changing, it doesn’t mean that pubs, bars, and restaurants need to be left behind. 

In 2020, BrewDog piloted an alcohol-free bar concept. While the fully AF bar no longer exists, it set a precedent. Alcohol-free options are fast becoming a must-have for venues looking to remain inclusive and relevant.

To appeal to the sober-curious crowd, venues can host alcohol-free events like booze-free pub crawls, daytime festivals, or even early-finish club nights, as one club in Birmingham has recently started trialling. 

Pubs could target this new audience and take advantage of daytime hours by welcoming business owners and freelancers – nearly one in five of whom say they now work from cafes and restaurants – then transition into a post-5pm social hangout.

On weekends, they can tap into brunch culture with specialty coffee, healthy grab-and-go options, and sweet treats for the morning crowd.

New trends present new opportunities. Spaces that attract loyal, repeat customers around the clock are proving to be more resilient. By adapting to consumer demand, hospitality firms can fortify profit margins and stay relevant.

With nightlife fading — is it a new dawn for hospitality?

It’s still not clear whether bars and nightclubs will make a comeback or if we are witnessing a cultural shift. As summer rolls around, some venues may see a rebound in late-night footfall. But the broader trend suggests that today’s revellers prefer a sober night and an early finish.

Equally, hospitality businesses have been under real pressure, leading to a pessimistic outlook across the industry. Rising costs are everywhere, from business rates to staffing, and it’s proving challenging for venues to stay afloat. 

Some pubs are being forced to close as early as 9pm due to hikes in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs), making it harder to justify staying open late without real demand. 

One thing is for certain: the hospitality scene is changing. But by embracing both AM and PM customers, businesses have a chance to adapt, grow, and thrive.

While M&S recently battled cyber attacks that cost them nearly $400m, not all threats come from external attacks. Sometimes the danger is much closer to home. 

New data shows that over 4,500 workers in the UK were caught stealing from their employers last year. And it’s not just small change, the average loss per theft is a staggering £35,728, with incidents ranging from cash theft to embezzlement and fraud.

Hospitality and ecommerce are two of the most at-risk sectors for employee theft, due to staff having access to sensitive data, handling cash, and managing stock. 

London worst city for employee theft

Analysis carried out by insurer Zurich UK, based on Freedom of Information data, has today revealed that 4,562 employees were caught stealing from their workplace over the last year. 

The impact of employee theft can be incredibly costly. Each incident can cost a business up to £35,728, which could be especially devastating for SMEs with smaller cash reserves. 

According to Zurich’s data, the biggest case of employee theft involved a high-end jeweller that lost £249,229. In other incidents, a medical centre was defrauded of £50,000, while a furniture company lost £63,439 to embezzlement.

Unsurprisingly, employee theft is most rife in the capital, where there are also the most hospitality businesses. London’s Met Police recorded 794 incidents last year. 

On a more positive note, Gloucestershire police saw a 46% decrease, with 50 cases of employee theft in the last year, compared with 93 in the year before. 

Robert Higgs, a Senior Speciality Lines claims expert for Zurich, commented: “Employee theft takes on many forms, from petty theft of stationery to fraud and embezzlement, which can cost hundreds of thousands of pounds and be devastating to businesses.”

Which industries are most at risk?

Hospitality and ecommerce businesses are some of the most vulnerable to employee theft. In hospitality, staff often handle cash directly, and the prevalence of zero-hour contracts and high staff turnover can make it difficult to build strong employer-employee relationships. 

In ecommerce, the risks are slightly different but equally significant. Employees working in shipping and fulfilment may have easy access to stock, increasing the chance of inventory theft. There’s also more exposure to sensitive customer data, putting firms at risk of fraud.

While Zurich’s data shows a 15% drop in reported cases since our last update, the threat clearly hasn’t disappeared. 

How to protect your small business from employee theft

Being aware of the range of types of employee theft is the first step in protecting your business against avoidable losses. According to Zurich, it can take many forms:

• Cash theft from tills, safes, or petty cash
• Inventory shrinkage, through stolen stock or false returns
• Data theft, such as misusing customer or payment information
• Intellectual property (IP) theft, where staff take knowledge, designs, or client lists 
• Embezzlement, when staff use company money or resources for personal gain

As the cost of living crisis continues to put financial pressure on UK households, the persistence of employee theft, alongside a surge in shoplifting, is creating a challenging environment for high street businesses and retailers. 

For small businesses, especially in hospitality and ecommerce, security is paramount. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to defend your business from theft. 

Tools like POS systems with built-in fraud detection, real-time monitoring, and inventory management software can help you flag issues before they escalate. 

Cybersecurity tools are also a must-have to keep both your customer and company data safe, especially for ecommerce brands. And don’t overlook regular audits; even small, spot checks remind staff that you’re paying attention.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is spreading into all areas of daily life, and shopping is next in line. 

Google recently unveiled its AI Shopping Mode, a new “agentic” online shopping experience that allows users to browse billions of items and automatically check out with Google Pay.

It’s a significant shift for the ecommerce industry, but with consumers increasingly open to AI experiences, it has the potential to transform the shopping experience as we know it.

Recent data from SumUp shows that one in four Londoners would be happy to let a bot make small payments on their behalf, indicating growing consumer trust in AI payments.

So what does this mean for online sellers? And how can they keep up with ever-changing consumer expectations around AI and tech?

What is “agentic” shopping?

AI isn’t entirely new to the world of online shopping (Amazon users have long been able to ask Alexa to add products to their shopping cart). But Google has recently announced a ton of new “agentic” features that have significantly amped up the trend.

Notably, with the new AI Shopping Mode, Google has added an AI Mode to its shopping search function. Powered by its latest Gemini 2.5 model, it helps users easily find the sort of product, ticket, or experience they are looking for, without having to use specific keywords.

Shoppers can also search for items with their phone camera, use voice commands, and try clothes on virtually. And crucially, when they’ve found what they’re looking for, they can ask the AI to check out directly with Google Pay. 

How do shoppers feel about agentic AI?

Google’s AI Shopping Mode suggests we are very close to a reality in which AI can act as a personal shopping assistant, capable of making decisions and transactions autonomously. 

Chris Jones at payment consultancy firm, PSE Consulting comments, “The shift from AI as a search assistant to AI as a full-service shopper marks a fundamental change in how consumers interact with digital commerce. 

“With Google’s new plans for AI-driven checkout experiences, we’re moving closer to a world where shopping is no longer something we do, but something done for us.”

Jones is alluding to the concept of a fully-agentic checkout, where AI would autonomously complete purchases. Currently only available to US Google Pay users, agentic checkout will allow Google to make purchases on behalf of users. 

One benefit of agentic checkout is that it can allow users to access discounts, as users can instruct Google to “buy for me” when desired items become available at a cheaper price. Google will then purchase these products using Google Pay. 

But while AI using your credit card may feel rather dystopian to some, the report from SumUp suggests that more people are open to it than you may expect. 

42% of people in London said they would trust AI to make small, automated payments on their behalf. Meanwhile, 16% say they’d trust it to make payments of any kind.

What are the security risks?

AI checkout solutions could be the next step in the evolution towards cashless transactions. In the past few years, card payments have reigned supreme over cash. SumUp reports that over 62% of Brits now prefer to pay with their cards.

That said, digital payments aren’t without their drawbacks. Over a third (35%) of people say they’re worried about security risks, such as hacking, fraud, and stolen card details. In addition, 30% of people find it concerning to be reliant on technology. 

Lastly, 31% worry about the privacy of digital banking, specifically banks and tech companies tracking their data. In light of these concerns, 11% are hitting back against the shift to a cashless society and still prefer to rely on cash.

As agentic AI use grows in popularity, these risks could stymie adoption. With the rise of agentic AI, these concerns may hinder adoption. Consumers will likely demand strong security measures to prevent bad actors from placing orders through their accounts.

How should small sellers respond?

While the SumUp report shows that Brits are still divided when it comes to digital payments, Google’s AI shopping mode shows an undeniable shift towards more convenient ways of paying. And SMEs will benefit from keeping up with demand.

By embracing AI-powered POS systems and payment gateways, businesses can offer streamlined payment options that match evolving consumer expectations. 

Beyond keeping up with the times, adopting new tech can have several benefits. It helps you speed up the checkout process, as well as offering personalised shopping experiences. All in all, a positive shopping experience can boost sales and customer retention.

Still, when dealing with anything involving customer payment data, caution is paramount. Sellers should take steps to understand the security requirements and potential risks of AI payment solutions before adding them to their own store.

Nearly 60,000 UK workers will be repaid £7.4m, after an investigation by His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) found their wages had been undercut by their employers.

Between 2015-2022, over 500 businesses were found to have paid their staff less than the National Minimum Wage (NMW) or National Living Wage (NLW). Among the businesses named were major hospitality players including Pizza Express and Prezzo. 

Commenting on the findings, Minister for Employment Rights, Justin Madders said: “There is no excuse for employers to undercut their workers, and we will continue to name companies who break the law and don’t pay their employees what they are owed.”

The measures are a wake-up call for hospitality businesses that do not stay abreast of minimum wage rate updates.

Why hospitality businesses must take notice

As part of the government’s raft of worker reforms to ‘Make Work Pay’, there’s been a clampdown on businesses paying staff under the minimum wage. This follows an uplift to the NMW and NLW and improved workers’ rights in the Employment Rights Bill.

In total, 518 businesses were named in the report, including leading hospitality chains. Pizza Express owed £760k to 8,470 workers, while Prezzo had to repay £163k to 2,550 workers. 

All of the businesses have now paid back what they owe to their staff. In addition to repaying staff, businesses also faced fines of up to 200% of their underpayment. 

According to the report, nearly 60,000 employees had been paid under the national minimum wage. Many of these are likely to be hospitality staff on the frontlines, including kitchen, bar, and front-of-house staff.

What went wrong—and how to avoid it

While it’s never acceptable to underpay your staff, sometimes it’s accidental, especially if you aren’t using a proper payroll system. 

Hours can be miscalculated, or deductions for uniforms, unpaid training, and confusion around rates for under-21s or apprentices can all result in accidental underpayment.

Some employers may also be unaware that minimum and living wage rates changed in early April and haven’t yet updated their pay structures to reflect the new legal standards.

To stay compliant amid ever-changing employment laws, invest in reliable payroll and accounting software or outsourcing to a professional accountant who can keep you on track.

It’s also important to regularly audit your payroll systems. Stay updated on current rates, especially for younger workers and apprentices, and train managers and HR teams to spot common compliance errors. 

Ultimately, wage compliance shouldn’t be treated as just another admin task. It’s a core part of running a fair, sustainable business, and it deserves to be a top priority. 

Costs, risks, and compliance for hospitality firms

Alongside being unfair to your team, underpaying staff (whether knowingly or unknowingly) can have disastrous effects on brand reputation. From media coverage to customer perceptions, being publicly named and shamed can cause lasting damage to your brand.

Regarding the findings, Baroness Philippa Stroud, Chair of the Low Pay Commission, said: “We welcome today’s publication. Underpayment leaves workers out of pocket and disadvantages the majority of employers who do abide by the rules.

“These naming rounds play an important part in ensuring that all workers receive their full wages and that they are aware that there is support for them to ensure that they do.”

Hospitality businesses are under pressure from rising wage costs, business rates, and soaring energy bills. But cutting corners on pay is a false economy. 

The government’s message is clear: enforcement is increasing. With public shaming and fines of over 200% of the underpaid amount, both finances and reputation are on the line. 

Cafés and restaurants have become the new office, according to new data, as self-employed business owners search for cheap spaces to work in London. 

Nearly one in five microbusinesses and sole traders are now working from food and drink hotspots in central London – a savvy way to avoid rising office rents while still enjoying social interaction (and far superior coffee).

It’s a natural evolution in the post-pandemic, hybrid work era. But what does this trend mean for small businesses trying to balance flexibility with productivity?

Do you WFC (Work From Café)?

In the pursuit of a better work-life balance, microbusinesses and entrepreneurs are leading the shift to alternative workspaces.

The new data from Tristan Capital Partners reports that 19% of microbusinesses (firms with under 10 employees) work from cafés or restaurants, compared with 8% of average workers. 

Alex Melligan, Director of Portfolio & Asset Management at Tristan Capital Partners, commented, “People are increasingly opting for roles in companies that offer flexibility around time and location, over rigid, set definitions of what constitutes a working day.

“Whereas they might have once worked from the office or a co-working spot all day, these businesses are increasingly conducting operations from the comfort of their favourite restaurant, café, or bar.”

Why are entrepreneurs working from cafés and restaurants?

London’s microbusiness owners are trading the office for cafés and restaurants for several reasons. Firstly, working from the comfort of your favourite café offers a more relaxed, creative environment for both meetings and solo work. 

Additionally, as more of us work predominantly hybrid or remote jobs, working from cafés and restaurants provides much-needed opportunities to socialise and work alongside others.

Being able to meet clients, partners, or colleagues in a professional setting is another reason. Business owners are 17% more likely to arrange a work meeting in a café or restaurant than an employee, according to the Tristan Capital Partners research.

Hybrid and remote working can sometimes feel isolating, so it’s no surprise that workers are using their flexibility to experience working in different locations across the city. 

Tristan Capital Partners finds that 58% of entrepreneurs and workers surveyed choose local venues for the opportunity to socialise with colleagues. It provides a sense of community, connection, and an escape from the mundanity of the WFH routine. 

How do hospitality firms feel about it?

Hospitality firms might not like the newfound attention. Many cafés and restaurants still maintain anti-laptop policies, and there’s a grey area around the etiquette of how long you can reasonably stay in cafés without continually buying food and drink.

It can also be a vibe-killer for other customers. A recent poll by YouGov found that only 8% of Brits think Zoom calls are acceptable café behaviour. 

While smaller businesses may appreciate the additional footfall, larger chains like Starbucks are cracking down on workers in their spaces.

However, with the pandemic having hit pubs and restaurants particularly hard, the rise of workers using these spaces as informal offices could offer a welcome boost to business looking to expand their target audience.

We’ll know soon enough what the verdict is. Today, the House of Lords Home-based Working Committee will hold two sessions to explore how remote and hybrid work is shaping parts of the economy, including hospitality. 

Should you use coworking spaces?

If you want the benefits and flexibility of working away from home and the office, without the guilt of potentially irritating other people, a coworking space can be a happy medium. 

They can complement café culture by providing reliable WiFi, designated desks, meeting rooms, and lots of networking opportunities. You also don’t need to worry about not landing a table next to a plug outlet or being asked to leave right in the middle of a project. 

Beyond that, a major factor is also money. Business rates are rising, and the cost of running a physical office in central London is simply unattainable for many microbusinesses.

While they aren’t free, serviced offices are also cheaper and more flexible. You get to enjoy the benefits of having a creative, yet work-first space, without having to pay overheads like utility bills like water and electricity.

The UK’s plan to put AI innovation centre stage has been dealt a blow by the collapse of the London-based startup, Builder.ai.

Builder.ai had been one of the world’s most hyped, no-code AI platforms. It had also raised $445m in funding from the likes of Microsoft. 

Two weeks ago, though, the company filed for insolvency proceedings in the UK, following the relevation that much of its platform had been powered not by AI, but by 700 human engineers. 

It’s also accused of working with the Indian social media startup, VerSe Innovation to fabricate some business deals.

AI hype has gripped startups and sole traders this year. But with many reportedly already regretting replacing staff with the tech, Builder.ai’s invisible, human workforce is the latest in a number of AI cautionary tales for founders.

What was Builder.ai and why did it attract so much attention?

Builder.ai had sold itself as a platform for users to build custom apps without needing to know how to write code. Its software was allegedly powered by AI, with users giving instructions to a virtual assistant called “Natasha.”

With software development currently one of the most in-demand skills on the job market, it’s no surprise that Builder.ai was wildly attractive to investors. The promise of faster, cheaper, and automated development was too good to pass up in a market worth billions. 

Between 2018 and 2023, Builder.ai secured an impressive $445 million in VC funding. Backers included high-profile investors like Microsoft and the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). 

Microsoft’s involvement elevated the company to unicorn status, with Builder.ai securing a valuation of $1.5bn in 2023, as well as global recognition as a leading AI innovator.

What went wrong?

Despite numerous successful rounds of funding, there were early questions raised about Builder.ai’s credibility. 

A 2019 report in the Wall Street Journal burst Builder.ai’s (then known as Engineer.ai) bubble by debunking its claims to use AI for software development. It turned out that the app was largely powered by an assembly line of human developers in India, responding to user requests in real-time. The promise of AI-powered app development was a gimmick. 

This revelation, combined with claims of fake customer reviews and logos of companies they hadn’t worked with advertised on their site, left a stain on Builder.ai’s reputation. 

More trouble followed in the form of scrutiny surrounding their accounts and a leadership shake-up. Last month, the game was up, as the company filed for insolvency.

The AI hype trap

The tale of Builder.ai’s rise and fall represents the dangers of the AI hype cycle. To remain competitive, many startups are being told they must engage with new AI technologies in their operations, from recruitment to advertising.

In our survey of 531 SME leaders, conducted at the end of last year, we found that 82% felt under pressure to adopt emerging technologies. 

But often, AI solutions need human talent to succeed. While AI tech is certainly impressive, many brand-new platforms are still evolving, so it’s warranted to feel sceptical about it. 

Before betting your business on an AI website builder or platform, it’s essential to test, validate, and ask crucial questions around how effective a tool really is, particularly if it’s still in demo mode.

What’s the lesson for founders in the AI era?

AI is by no means a magic pill for success. It’s worth remembering that many “AI-powered” tools still depend on human input to work well. As a founder, it’s important that you take the time to research what a platform actually does before diving in headfirst.

That said, AI’s rapid adoption isn’t without good reason. There are plenty of practical applications from emerging AI startups that do add real value to your business when used thoughtfully. 

That’s particularly true for sole traders, who might lack the team resource to scale quickly and depend on technology to automate many of their processes.

As the government pushes for AI innovation in its AI Action Plan, it’s important to remember that while this space is evolving quickly, adopters should embrace it at a pace they feel comfortable with.

You don’t have to be a business expert to know that business networking is vital. Whether it’s your first time or you’re already a seasoned pro, networking helps you build relationships, get support, and even, potentially, secure deals and partnerships.

Today’s networking events don’t expect you to show up in a suit and tie and make awkward small talk. Many are opting for a more open and relaxed environment, and with the summer months ahead, you might find yourself networking from the pub garden or rooftop bar. 

The best part is that a lot of them don’t cost a penny. Below, we’ll list 70 of the best free networking events near you that you won’t want to miss this June.

The weather may be a little hit and miss right now. But (as always) Brits are up and ready to celebrate the start of summer this month.

As we eagerly await warmer weather, sales are starting to heat up too, meaning dropshippers are jumping on seasonal trends with high-demand products from the best dropshipping suppliers.

We’ve done the digging for you and found the most popular products trending right now, backed by data and insights from the top ecommerce pros.

So, whether you’re looking to refresh your product lineup or tap into seasonal trends, here are seven trending dropshipping products to help boost your sales this June.

Hospitality firms were pessimistic enough about 2025. Now, they can add the rising prices of fresh produce to their list of challenges, as new figures show that food inflation in the UK has risen for the fourth month in a row.

According to the latest shop price data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC), a retail trade association, food ingredient prices rose by 2.8% this month. The surge is reportedly being driven by a surge in the cost of fresh produce, such as steak.

Last week, the Government announced its UK-EU reset deal, which it said will make importing and exporting food products from the EU and Northern Ireland cheaper. However, no official timeline for this commitment has yet been announced.

Rising food costs pile on pressure

The BRC’s monthly shop price index, released this week, shows that the annual rate of food price rises rose by 2.6% in April. Analysis carried out by the research firm NielsenIQ identified the spiralling cost of fresh food items, like meat and dairy products, as the biggest contributor.

“Fresh foods were the main driver, and red meat eaters may have noticed their steak got a little more expensive as wholesale beef prices increased,” Helen Dickinson, the BRC chief executive, said in the BRC report.

Overall, the cost of goods remains in deflation. BRC data shows that non-food items are around 0.1% cheaper than they were a year ago. But the story is less positive for the food service industry. 

Ingredient costs will likely hit pubs, bars, and restaurants hardest. Meanwhile, a dramatic rise in water bills and energy costs has also pushed up bill payments, further tightening profit margins.

Last week, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the UK had secured a new deal with the EU, aimed at cutting back post-Brexit red tape to cheapen imports and exports and drive down food prices for consumers.

The UK is “holding talks” on the details of this arrangement. Without confirmation of a timeframe, however, and in the face of these new figures, hospitality businesses can take little comfort in the announcement.

Profits or patrons?

For restaurants, steakhouses, and pubs, fresh food is a key part of the menu. When the cost of items such as wholesale beef increase, it raises the purchase cost of ingredients and ultimately, the Cost of Goods Sold or COGS.  

COGS refers to the total expenses incurred in the production of goods or services. For hospitality, that means costs like the cost of raw ingredients, packaging, and preparation materials.

Calculating your COGS using accounting software is vital to maintain a profitable and appealing inventory.

When the COGS increases, it directly impacts cash flow, meaning hospitality businesses face a decision. They can absorb the spike themselves, leading to a lower margin. Or, they can rework menus to substitute cheaper ingredients and reduce food waste.

However, with gross profit already low, most choose to either raise menu prices to maintain earnings. This could hurt customer demand, though, particularly as the cost of living is so high. 

Higher wages squeezing hospitality budgets

It feels like everything is becoming more expensive in the hospitality sector. As well as the COGS surge, bosses also need to contend with the rising cost of employment, after a hike in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) came into force at the start of April.

Restaurants, bars, and pubs tend to have much larger workforces. Combined with the new National Living Wage, they were hit particularly hard by the rise as a result. 

While there was a silver lining in the form of a rise in the Employment Allowance discount scheme, this will do little to bolster balance sheets. Many pubs warned they would become unprofitable as a result of the spike.

In a survey of business owners from iwoca — one of Europe’s largest SME lenders – nearly 60% said that they would increase prices for customers to cover this higher NICs burden.

However, with food prices on the up, and business rates relief also heavily scaled back for both retail and hospitality, this strategy may require a pivot. The next option? One fifth of SMEs also told iwoca they’d cut jobs to survive the rise. 

As pubs, bars, and restaurants take drastic measures to stay afloat, the pressure is on Whitehall to deliver a comprehensive support package and a clear trade deal. This is urgently needed to help the sector manage rising operating costs created by its policies.

Waitrose is set to welcome 18 exciting new brands to its shelves by the end of May, as part of its ambitious BrandsNew programme, an initiative designed to spotlight innovation and champion the next generation of F&B startups. 

The scheme was first launched by the retailer in September 2024, Waitrose said it would invest £2m to attract and support small, innovative brands. They include Freja, which featured in the Startups 100 Index in 2025. 

The programme signals a clear shift in the retail landscape, and suggests that UK consumers are hungry for fresh ideas with founder-led startups leading the way. 

Waitrose’s big bet on small brands

Waitrose’s BrandsNew programme was launched last year to support trending Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) products with their market entry strategy. 

As part of the scheme, Waitrose will work with leading product discovery, sourcing and purchasing platform RangeMe, as well as innovation consultancy YF, to help its brands become supermarket-ready. 

As reported by The Grocer, Charlotte Di Cello, Waitrose Commercial Director, said: “identifying, backing and growing brilliant new brands is something we’ve done for years, and we’re proud that so many are now household names.

“It’s great to now be amplifying this track record with our BrandsNew programme to attract and support even more exciting and exclusive brands to Waitrose shelves and online. Our customers love them.”

BrandsNew builds on the retailer’s successful exclusive launches of other challenger businesses in the UK. Ottolenghi, Wildfarmed, and Zoe Daily 30+ are among the other small labels that have recently been supported by Waitrose’s backing. 

Meet the brands joining Waitrose in May

One of the new products to hit Waitrose in May is none other than the bone broth brand Freja, which we named a top 100 startup at the start of this year. 

The startup’s mission is to help bone broth shed its Viking associations and present it as the nutrition-packed alternative to ultra-processed foods. Other new kids on the block include high-end crisp company, Torres, and South London-based regenerative brewery, Gipsy Hill. 

The range of exciting new products on offer represents a growing appreciation for niche, sustainable, and premium offerings by large supermarkets looking to diversify their portfolio. 

Some of the UK’s fastest-growing startups are currently in F&B, such as another Startups 100 brand Bold Bean Co, having gone from idea to national distribution in just four years.

How to get stocked

Breaking into major UK supermarkets is a huge opportunity for food and drink brands – but it’s also a challenge. Retailers like Waitrose are on the lookout for fresh, innovative products that meet a clear customer need and offer something truly unique.

To get your brand on the shelves, start by refining your brand story. Buyers expect more than a great idea: they also want consumer demand, strong margins, and a robust supply chain that can handle large orders and meet strict requirements, like a 75% minimum shelf life.

Cash flow is critical, too. Supermarkets rarely pay upfront, so plan how you’ll fund production whether through invoice factoring, investment, or loans.

Getting listed takes persistence: identify the right category buyer and pitch with clarity and evidence that your product deserves a spot on their shelves.

And don’t forget to explore the 2025 Startups 100 Index, a launchpad that has spotlighted some of the UK’s most inspiring F&B businesses, including Bio&Me and SURREAL. You’ll find out who’s making waves, and maybe spot your future competitors.

Corporate catfishing is on the rise, as more people lie or exaggerate their professional experience to secure a job. You may be familiar with the term ‘catfishing’ being used to dupe people on dating apps, but the pernicious trend has seeped into the world of recruitment. 

For many of us, the thought of being caught in a lie would keep us up at night. But shockingly, a new survey by Monster has found that as many as 67% of workers work alongside someone who lied to land a role. 

Ending up with an employee who lacks the necessary experience can be risky to your business, and for sole traders especially, it’s a risk you can’t afford to ignore. 

What is corporate catfishing?

The term catfishing originates from online dating, where it describes people making a fictitious or embellished online persona in order to score a date.

Put simply, corporate catfishing refers to someone misrepresenting themselves within a business. It can be candidates lying to get a job, freelancers lying about qualifications to get a contract, or employers overselling a role to fill it quickly. 

According to a poll from jobs site Monster, it’s becoming commonplace. 13% of workers today admit to exaggerating their background to land a job. 

The main areas that were overstated were job responsibilities in previous roles (8%), skills and technical abilities (7%), work experience (7%), and education and certifications (3%).

Why hiring (and applying) is getting more deceptive

The rise of AI and automation may be partly responsible for the rise of deceptive practices, like corporate catfishing. 

Job boards are increasingly flooded with automated job descriptions, which many candidates are responding to with AI-written CVs and cover letters. Aware that their applications must pass ATS filters, many candidates paste job descriptions into AI tools to generate hyper-relevant, but often inauthentic or inaccurate, cover letters.

Beyond just losing the personal touch, AI in recruitment is normalising automated applications, prioritising speed over truly finding the right candidate.

As well as AI’s revolution of the hiring process, it’s also contributed to a crowded freelance and remote job market. With workers fearful of losing jobs to AI, there’s growing pressure to stand out. This means that people are turning to AI to generate buzzy LinkedIn posts and thought leadership blogs to secure their position in the job market.

Of course, it works both ways. First-time hirers may also unintentionally over-promise flexibility, career growth, and company culture to secure high-value talent. But ultimately, if both sides are playing the system, then honest connections will become few and far between. 

Vicki Salemi, Career Expert at Monster, wrote on LinkedIn: “Both the employer and job seeker/employee should strive for accuracy and authenticity, full stop.”

How to avoid being catfished

While larger businesses may be able to survive a substandard employee, it can hit smaller businesses hard. Sole traders in particular may also be hiring or partnering for one critical role, not an entire team. A bad fit drains time, energy, and trust.  

To avoid being catfished as an employer, it helps to keep your hiring process grounded and specific. Start with clear, honest job descriptions that focus on actual responsibilities and expectations, this will attract serious, high-quality candidates. Drop vague buzzwords like “rockstars”. If you’re leading with exaggeration, that’s what you’ll get in return. 

Task-based assessments or trial projects can reveal more than a CV – especially when paired with a video interview – for communication and confidence on an interpersonal level.

If you’re working with freelancers or consultants, don’t skip the basics: check portfolios, ask for references, and trust your instincts if anything feels fishy. 

A short probation period or test brief can help you verify skills before locking in a longer-term commitment. Also, be wary of suspiciously low rates or overly generic LinkedIn profiles. This may be a sign that you’re dealing with more gloss than substance.

With a few thoughtful tweaks to your process and a sharper eye for red flags, it’s possible to cut through the noise. By focusing on transparency and substance over spin, you can sort the AI catfish from the sea of actual, qualified candidates to hire right.

When most of us think of Uber, we picture taxis and takeaways. But now, the ride-hailing app is expanding its repertoire with a new Courier service.

Uber Courier is designed for when you need to send or receive something urgently. Already live in nine UK cities, the service is set to reach 20 by the end of summer, with London on the list for later this year. 

While it’s ideal for personal mishaps, such as forgetting your house keys or ordering a last-minute birthday gift, Uber Courier could also be game-changing for small ecommerce businesses under increasing pressure to offer same-day or next-day delivery.

What is Uber Courier, and how does it work?

You’ll find Uber Courier in the existing app. It’s Uber’s latest solution for users to arrange on-demand, item-by-item deliveries.

The service is currently available in nine UK cities: Sheffield, Edinburgh, Stoke, Glasgow, Leicester, Oxford, Belfast, Northampton, and Hull. 

A wider rollout is planned over the summer, with additional cities including Brighton, Cambridge, Cardiff, Newcastle, Birmingham, and Leeds. Londoners will have to hold on until the end of 2025.

Courier is designed to be simple, following a five-step process of book, describe, confirm, track, and verify.

Users start by selecting the ‘Courier’ option in the app, then enter the pick-up and drop-off locations, just like ordering a ride. They’re then asked to provide a brief description of the item, which must weigh less than 15 pounds and be valued at under £200. Once confirmed, the delivery can be tracked in real time. To complete the handoff, the recipient is required to enter a PIN code, to confirm their identity.

Features such as live tracking and PIN verification are intended to add a level of security, which is particularly useful for time-sensitive or valuable items. 

Why small businesses might benefit from Courier

Uber Courier might be a lifesaver for the forgetful, but it’s also a smart opportunity for small ecommerce businesses. With no contracts or setup costs, it offers a flexible, scalable delivery option, ideal for those without an existing logistics plan in place. Smaller retailers can dip their toes into home delivery with minimal overheads or long-term commitment.

For example, a small Etsy seller can now offer same-day delivery for thoughtful handmade gifts. It’s a win-win, as customers aren’t stuck with last-minute options from the petrol station, while independent businesses can build stronger connections with local shoppers.

Courier makes it easier for small businesses to fulfil urgent online orders, reach local VIP customers, or experiment with same-day delivery, without the need for national infrastructure.

As Andrew Brem, General Manager at Uber UK, explained: “Courier is designed for those moments when something just needs to get done, but you can’t get to it yourself.

“By offering an easy, reliable way to send and receive items, Courier helps people and small businesses reclaim valuable time for what matters most.”

Will Uber Courier reshape last-mile delivery?

As a culture of immediacy takes hold, the demand for ultra-convenience is becoming the norm. Thanks in no small part to the “Amazon effect”, same-day delivery is no longer a bonus, but an expectation. 

For small businesses, delivery options like Uber Courier offer a way to keep up with rising demands without breaking the bank.

There’s also something to be said for the personal touch. Quick, local delivery can help independents forge stronger relationships with their customers while keeping costs minimal.

That said, some quick-commerce giants, like Just Eat, haven’t always had the best track record when it comes to working with small business partners. Small businesses may want to tread carefully before handing the reins over to Uber Courier. 

It’s crucial to do your homework. Check customer feedback, service efficiency, and how different delivery options align with your brand values. 

Uber is also not the only option. Rivals like Packfleet are also stepping up their game with tech-enabled, carbon-neutral delivery services tailored specifically for small businesses. 

Dubbed “the antidote to Amazon,” Packfleet champions sustainable and ethical values, which may be a better fit for sellers looking to partner with a fellow local business.

Filing for a trademark or patent is one of the most important steps when starting a new business. And now, all UK entrepreneurs will be able to make use of a new online search tool to discover patent information. 

Called One IPO Search, the government confirmed the service launch last Friday. It will be available to all customers who need to search for and discover patents, replacing the previous Ipsum service, which has been running since 2012. 

Since 2021, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has been running the One IPO Transformation Programme, which aims to provide a single, integrated service for managing all UK IP rights. More updates, including AI-powered features, will also be introduced in the next 12 months.

What is One IPO Search?

One IPO Search is a new online search tool designed to help innovative businesses to search and access patent information. It has been developed by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO), the official government body for intellectual property (IP) rights.

According to a government announcement, it represents a ‘generational leap’ in how customers can search for and discover patents by sharing this data online. As a result of the new features, customers will apparently be able to find relevant patents using simple keyword searches, and download patent information to share with teams.

Patents give businesses the legal right to their inventions, such as new products, processes or technical solutions. They are used to protect against other companies using, stealing, or imitating their IP for a set period of time.

While similar, they are different from a registered trademark, which is usually applied to marketing materials such as a business name or logo.

According to the IPO, there were approximately 200,000 patent searches in the last 12 months alone. One IPO Search will streamline this activity by bringing the service in-line with the trademark register, an easy-to-use database to find registered trademarks in the UK. 

How will the new service support UK business?

Protecting your intellectual property is a vital consideration for any new business owner, but it can often fly under the radar when it comes to getting started.

Submitting a patent application is the best way to guard your invention against copyright infringement. It can also provide a major competitive advantage when a brand is just starting out, which is why investors are often reassured by patents during a funding pitch.

It’s also not just for new businesses. Companies that have been in operation for years will often secure patents for their product or service updates. In 2024, according to Patently Apple, the world’s largest tech company had 3,082 active patents.

However, this new online service is most likely to benefit UK startups. Patent searches are often carried out by new founders during the product development stages. 

They can be useful for market analysis, learning more about a new field of technology, or to determine what design elements a new patent filing can claim for. 

By making this data more accessible and easier to crunch to the general public, the IPO encourages UK innovation. Those who haven’t developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) yet will be able to see what has been filed and adjust their business plan accordingly.

Tara Gillam, Innovate UK Business Growth said the patent landscape can be “time-consuming and complex” for startups, adding that the new IPO Search tool would enable companies to “better identify opportunities, make more informed decisions about their R&D investments, and better understand and protect their intellectual property”.

What’s coming next?

As part of the One IPO Transformation Programme, the new One IPO Search tool is just one of a number of new measures designed to revolutionise IP filing in the UK.

As well as an updated patent search tool, the office last year introduced an AI-powered patent allocation tool, which apparently slashes the time taken to submit an application to the relevant reviewer from 14 days to a matter of seconds.

Several additional features will also be coming to One IPO Search in the future, including the ability to save searches and get patent notifications later this year. AI-powered searches are also apparently in the works, although no launch date has yet been confirmed.

Minister for Intellectual Property, Feryal Clark spoke positively about the update. “Users will have access to all the information they need in a single platform – modernising an outdated system to support our innovators to do what they do best for years to come,” said Clark.

When running an ecommerce business, offering refunds is essential for building trust and loyalty with customers.

But sometimes, consumers take advantage of that trust by exploiting generous returns policies. Termed ‘refund abuse’, the practice takes many forms. And as the requests pile up, so do the costs for businesses.

As a result, today’s sellers find themselves facing an impossible task — the need to combat refund abuse and protect profit margins, without losing loyalty.

What is refund abuse?

Refund abuse — also known as returns fraud — is when a customer misuses a company’s refund or return policy to get money back in dishonest ways.

This includes requesting a refund for items they’ve already used, falsely claiming a package never arrived, returning damaged or different items than what was purchased, or using fake receipts or multiple refund requests for the same item.

For consumers, it’s win-win. They get to use a product essentially for free. But for small businesses, refund abuse can lead to serious financial losses and mess up inventory. 

What’s more, unlike large retailers, small online stores often lack the budget and resources to effectively manage these issues.

SMEs are paying the price for refund abuse

A white lie never hurt anyone? Well, sadly, not when it comes to returns. The “harmless” little fibs involved in refund abuse can end up costing small businesses thousands.

According to a survey reported by IT Brief, SMEs lost an average of around £11,000 due to online fraud last year. 42% cited refund abuse as the main perpetrator.

And it seems shoppers aren’t hiding their guilt either, as 38% of Brits have admitted to refund fraud. 34% confess to falsely labelling a fully working item as faulty to get their money back.

“Return policy abuse and fraud pose an enormous challenge to retail brands,” Jonathan Poma, CEO of Loop, told Ecommerce News. 

“Behind the scenes, it is causing harm to retailers by contributing to higher return rates, operational challenges in restocking, and fraudulent activity resulting in damaging losses.”

To refund, or not to refund

The obvious answer may be to impose a stricter refund policy to prevent further fraud. But while larger retailers can afford to lose business from disgruntled customers, small businesses often can’t risk alienating loyal shoppers without risking their survival chances.

After all, it was reported that 40% of an ecommerce store’s revenue comes from repeat customers. Negative customer feedback can also prove to be costly, as 86% of customers say they’d reconsider buying from a business with negative reviews.

Martin Sweeney, CEO of software company Ravelin says: “Too many retailers are happy to dismiss fraud as a cost of doing business. Downplaying fraud to protect the customer experience is a false dichotomy.”

So, what should small businesses do to better protect themselves?

One practical solution is to consider charging for returns. This can help cover the costs of processing returns and discourage refund abuse without outright refusing refunds. It’s the approach also chosen by brands like Pretty Little Thing and ASOS.

Poma adds: “It’s a careful balance that retailers are trying to strike, to both reduce the impact of returns fraud and abuse on merchants’ bottom lines whilst still retaining their best customers and ensuring an efficient customer experience.”

“I got it off TikTok” might be a reasonable phrase when talking about DIY hacks or new outfits. But not so much for deciding your business strategy.

The platform’s immense popularity over the years has led to countless trends. And among the viral dances, funny sounds and clever life hacks, TikTok has also become a breeding ground for business advice — some helpful, and some better off left in the drafts.

This includes the famous 90/10 model, which promises quick success, but often oversimplifies the hard work behind starting a business.

While it’s easy to get influenced by TikTok and other social media platforms, here’s why the 90/10 model is something you’ll probably want to scroll past.

What is the 90/10 model?

The 90/10 model refers to the theory that 90% of your success will come from just 10% of your efforts. Its followers say that entrepreneurs and sole traders should focus on a few core tasks that really make a difference, rather than trying to do everything at once.

Some business owners on TikTok report using the 90/10 rule to focus on a specific target market or product line that generates the largest profit.

For example, a company might find that just 10% of its customers generate 90% of its revenue, or that 10% of its products make up the majority of sales. By focusing on these specific customers or products, businesses can improve profits and grow faster.

While this rule has existed long before TikTok, it has become popularised on the platform as quick business advice. It may sound simple and effective at first, but it often overlooks the ongoing effort, strategy and challenges that come with running a business.

The risks of the 90/10 rule

TikTok videos might make the 90/10 rule sound like a magic shortcut for success. However, putting all your eggs in one basket can come with some significant risks.

For one, focusing only on the top 10% can mean missing out on potential opportunities or capitalising on a smaller customer base that could grow later on. There’s also the risk of focusing on chasing “quick wins” instead of developing long-term strategies. 

Moreover, if one or more of those repeat customers leave or reduce their business, it can create a big hole in your profit margins and revenue that’ll be hard to fill quickly.

Plus, while the “vital 10%” may grab most of the attention, some tasks or processes outside that group are equally important for everyday operations, staying compliant, and keeping customers happy. Overlooking these details can cause problems that hurt your business in the long run.

For example, a company that only focuses on its best-selling product might ignore rising trends or changing customer needs — until a competitor swoops in with something new and steals the spotlight.

Richard Hunt, Director at Liquidation Centre, says the 90/10 rule ignores what’s unique about a business, like  “different goals, brands and challenges”.

“Taking advice from brief, generic clips, often without proper sense-checking, can harm your business”, he adds.

Why viral doesn’t always mean valuable

Workplace and HR-related topics have become a regular feature on TikTok. Known as #WorkTok, this corner of the platform has fueled several workplace trends, and while some have advantages, not all of them are necessarily healthy for businesses.

Most notably,  some disengaged workers began “quiet quitting” by doing the bare minimum in their work. However, this has backfired, with the creator of the trend recently admitting he thinks the practice is “unsustainable”.

Employers also jumped on the bandwagon through quiet firing (creating an unfavourable work environment that encourages resignations). Similarly, while this tactic might seem like an easy solution, it can end up seriously hurting employee morale and trust.

It’s not all bad. Some WorkTok hacks, such as explanations on how to speak professionally using “corporate talk”, have helped to boost younger employees’ confidence when it comes to having difficult conversations at work. 

But for founders, particularly when it comes to decisions that could affect your bottom line, Hunt says it’s a smart idea to take your WorkTok feed with a pinch of salt. After all, running a business takes more than just viral tips and catchy buzzwords.

“As misinformation grows and platforms such as TikTok continue to influence the masses, it is more important than ever to stay grounded and ensure the information you consume is verified, credible, and truly relevant to your industry”, says Hunt.

The Government’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative will become mandatory for many self-employed individuals from April 2026. The new rules aim to make managing business taxes easier and more efficient for solopreneurs.

Yet despite the plans, statistics from IRIS software reveal that many UK sole traders haven’t gotten the message, as nearly half admit to not being ready for the changes.

And with the deadline to register for MTD looming, the lack of preparation can easily lead to facing penalties if they don’t comply.

But even with today’s digitisation, including the increased use of accounting software, these statistics beg the question of why so many sole traders are falling with the new MTD rules.

What is Make Tax Digital (MTD)?

MTD is a Government initiative that makes it mandatory for businesses to use a digital system to keep tax records, submit tax data and make payments.

The initiative was first proposed in April 2019, and currently only applies to value-added tax (VAT) payments. 

However, for sole traders with income tax over £50,000, MTD is being phased in from April 6 next year — meaning those eligible have a year to transition to digital-only for their taxes.

MTD will also apply to those who earn over £30,000 from 2027, and to anyone earning £20,000 from 2028.

MTD is coming, but sole traders aren’t ready

MTD will be a legal requirement for sole traders from next year, yet alarmingly, many of them aren’t prepared for this change.

According to software company IRIS — which surveyed over 1,000 UK sole traders — 31% of respondents reported that they’d never even heard of MTD. Moreover, 45% are at risk of failing to comply with new tax legislation.

“These findings highlight an important moment of opportunity for the UK’s sole traders,” Mark Chambers, Managing Director at IRIS Accountancy, comments. 

“With MTD just around the corner, there’s a real chance for firms to modernise their financial processes, unlock efficiencies, and gain better visibility of their income and expenses.”

Why are sole traders so unprepared?

So why do so many struggle to go fully digital? Aside from the admission of not knowing about MTD, the inadequacy in preparation could boil down to a generational divide, a reported lack of communication and misunderstanding of eligibility.

The IRIS study also found that sole traders aged 25-34 were the most prepared for MTD (37%), followed by those aged 35-44 (23%). On the other hand, just 10% of sole traders aged 45-44 felt the same.

Meanwhile, 74% of sole traders say that there’s a communication breakdown between them and HMRC. Most notably, many have said that they’re waiting for official guidance on navigating MTD, suggesting a lack of knowledge on how it works.

Additionally, according to an Intuit QuickBooks study reported by Bytestart, 21% of self-employed taxpayers don’t believe MTD applies to them, despite meeting the required threshold. 

Last month, research from Takepayments found that as many as 31% of sole traders and freelancers are clueless about their tax band. 

Chambers adds: “It’s encouraging to see that nearly a quarter feel ready to meet the requirements, but that leaves a significant portion not experiencing the benefits of digitised tax reporting that compliance will bring.

“The next step is making sure everyone, regardless of age or experience, has access to the knowledge and resources they need to move confidently towards compliance.”

Yesterday, the Government announced new regulations around the alternative payment method, “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL).

The new rules, which will be rolled out next year, aim to provide better protection for consumers when shopping online and purchasing through unregulated borrowing.

Among shoppers, BNPL platforms — such as Klarna and Clearpay — have surged in popularity in recent years. Although, some experts say the increased use has led to a “wild west” of overspending and unaffordable debt.

But while these new regulations will have obvious benefits for shoppers, online sellers are left with great uncertainty over how this will affect future sales and profitability.

What are the new rules for Buy Now, Pay Later?

As the name suggests, BNPL is a type of short-term financing. It allows consumers to make purchases and either pay them at a later date or spread the cost across multiple, smaller payments.

Its flexibility and convenience have garnered mass popularity in the UK, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. According to Finder, 42% of UK adults have used BNPL in the last 12 months  — up from 36% at the start of 2023.

As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, BNPL providers will have to follow standards to ensure consumers know what they’re signing up for, whether they can afford the purchase, and how to access help if needed. 

This includes carrying out upfront checks to ensure customers can afford to repay what they borrow, giving shoppers fairer and faster access to refunds, and the right to appeal to the Financial Ombudsman if anything goes wrong. 

“Buy-Now, Pay-Later has transformed shopping for millions, but for too long has operated as a wild west – leaving consumers exposed,” Emma Reynolds, Economic Secretary to the Treasury stated in a government press release.

“These new rules will protect shoppers from debt traps and give the sector the certainty it needs to invest, grow, and create jobs through our Plan for Change.”

Tackling the “wild west” of BNPL

The announcement comes as the use of BNPL payment options has skyrocketed in the UK.

Popular BNPL platform Klarna reached 11 million active customers in 2024, and reported a 30% increase in revenue growth.

But the surge in revenue has likely come at a cost for UK shoppers. As a study reported by Credit Strategy reveals, only 23% of BNPL customers feel in control of their spending when using these services. Meanwhile, 9% admitted to falling into debt. 

However, Klarna has argued that just 0.6% of transactions were referred to debt collectors last year. The company also says it has a “number of safeguards to protect consumers and ensure they’re able to meet repayments”, including eligibility checks on individual transactions and restricting services if there are missed payments.

“These guardrails clearly work as our loss rate is below 1% — 30-40% lower than what you’d see on a credit card,” a spokesperson told The Guardian.

What does this mean for ecommerce retailers?

While clear protections will be in place for shoppers next year, many retailers and online stores are left feeling uncertain about how these new rules will affect their business. 

After all, 90% of UK shoppers cited available payment methods as an influencing factor on making a purchase last year. 33% of those consumers reported using BNPL as their primary payment method.

“Tighter rules will almost certainly mean more friction at the checkout and possibly lower approval rates,” George Holmes, business finance expert and Managing Director at Aurora Capital, comments. “For small retailers and service providers already battling slowing demand and rising costs, any dip in conversions could hit hard.”

Moreover, according to Retail Merchandiser, businesses would have to obtain permission from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to offer BNPL. 

This could see the regulator bombarded with hundreds of thousands of requests from retailers, potentially leading to a slow approval process.

Plus, with retailers and BNPL platforms set to have joint liability on complaints under the new rules, meaning sellers may have to pay penalties if something goes wrong with purchases worth over £100. 

“The goal here is definitely right: stop unaffordable borrowing and protect consumers,” Holmes continued. “But we need to protect small firms on the other side of the transaction. 

“Without the right tools and education, they risk being left behind in a space that’s rapidly becoming more complex to navigate.”