With the threat of climate change growing larger each day, individuals and businesses alike are needed to take action and lessen their impact on the environment. One area which may not be so obvious when it comes to its impact on the environment is our digital activity. Every online interaction leaves a carbon footprint. In fact, the average person contributes around 968 grams of CO2 every single day just by scrolling. Multiply that by 1.13 billion websites that make up the world wide web, and the environmental impact becomes huge. But for businesses today, when social media pages, branding, and an engaging…
Author: sme-admin
For years, digital marketers have focused on one overriding objective: driving clicks. But with shifting platform algorithms and the rise of platform-first behaviours, SMEs now need to reimagine how they deliver value to their audience without relying on a single website visit. In the era of zero-click content, the goal is no longer just to bring people to your site, but to meet them where they already are. Adam Coley, Head of Digital at Nottingham digital marketing agency Champions (UK) plc, shared his insights on how his team are best utilising this media. Understanding zero-click content “Zero-click content refers to…
Excessive noise in the workplace is taking a disproportionate toll on neurodiverse employees, according to a new study of 2,000 UK business professionals by Oscar Acoustics, specialists in architectural acoustic finishes. The research highlights how overlooked sound issues are quietly undermining inclusivity, focus, and productivity in modern office environments. As businesses like Amazon and JP Morgan push forward with office returns, there’s growing scrutiny on how inclusive these environments truly are. While a lack of acoustic comfort is a widespread concern, its impact on individuals with neurodiverse conditions—including ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia—is especially stark. What’s sounding the alarm is that the majority of these individuals…
Gary Knight, CEO of WOLF Qanawat, a London-based tech company which has developed an online community entertainment app for the Arab-speaking Middle Eastern audience, discusses why the Middle East is offering predictability, opportunity and a real appetite for global partnerships. As economic uncertainty looms large in Western markets – from political instability in the US to rising regulatory headwinds – a new centre of gravity is emerging for forward-thinking businesses: the Middle East. At WOLF, a UK-founded tech company built around creating community-led online entertainment for Arabic speakers, we’ve experienced first-hand the region’s exceptional growth potential. Since launching five years ago,…
Data compiled by the Centre for Retail Research revealed that UK retail store closures have jumped by more than a quarter, with even more shutdowns predicted this year. But with so many closures over the years, which high street names are most missed? To find out which names consumers want to see return to our high streets, the experts at Liquidation Centre have compiled search data to reveal which household brands are being searched for the most, as well as advice for current retailers on how to stay relevant in a competitive market from Richard Hunt, Director at Liquidation Centre. Top Ten High…
Liz Walker, COO at employee benefits specialist Unum, explains how Group Income Protection can help SMEs manage rising National Insurance costs while supporting employee wellbeing. The government’s recent UK Budget introduced an increase in the rate of employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) from 13.8% to 15% and a reduction to the NIC threshold from £9,100 to £5,000 a year. As a result, since 6 April, employers are paying a higher rate on a larger portion of every employee’s income. With these increasing financial pressures, businesses are seeking effective ways to manage these additional costs; from recruitment freezes to salary sacrifice…
By Professor Marcantonio Spada, Chief Clinical Officer, Onebright As social creatures, we flourish when we feel connected, understood, and supported. There are multiple studies that underscore the significance of social bonds for both mental and physical health. We know that strong community ties can act as a protective factor against depression, anxiety, and burnout. The workplace, where many of us spend a substantial portion of our lives, can also be a vital source of support and wellbeing. Culture is viewed as the shared values, beliefs, and practices that influence how individuals experience their environment. A mentally healthy workplace culture and strong…
As reported by BBC News, the Home Secretary has confirmed that care worker visas will be closed to new overseas applicants as part of a sweeping overhaul of the UK’s immigration system. This policy shift, part of a broader strategy to reduce net migration and raise skill thresholds, marks a decisive break from the UK’s recent reliance on international care workers to fill critical labour gaps. Following the government’s announcement and the publication of the Immigration White Paper, Senior Business Immigration Solicitor at law firm Harper James, Fozia Iqbal, comments on the impact this decision could have on the care sector going forward:…
With recent cybersecurity breaches affecting major UK retailers like Harrods, Marks & Spencer, and Co-op, the urgency for businesses of all sizes to shore up their digital defences has never been clearer. These high-profile incidents are a stark reminder that no organisation is immune to cyber threats—regardless of size or reputation. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often seen as easier targets due to limited security infrastructure. In this article, Ryan Pluckrose, Business Systems Engineer at ABS Limited offers practical, accessible advice to help SMEs strengthen their cybersecurity posture and avoid becoming the next headline. cybersecurity isn’t just for large…
By Jacqueline Bourke, Senior Director, Creative, EMEA at iStock Small businesses often have limited budgets, making it challenging to find and choose high-quality creative content for their marketing and advertising, while the fast-paced nature of visual marketing trends can overwhelm brands trying to compete with larger companies. However, by having a cost-effective strategy, engaging with customers and community, and staying true to their brand DNA, SMBs can still create highly effective advertising and marketing material that resonates with their target audience. Research from iStock’s creative insights platform VisualGPS shows that creating engaging advertising creative is one of the top five…