Based on polling a representative sample of 1,000 small business owners nationwide, the spring months each year usually offer a seasonal boost to small business growth forecasts. Whilst for Q2 this year there is a welcome seasonal uplift in the percentage of small business owners predicting growth in three sectors – construction, 29% (up from 22% last quarter), retail, 38% (up from 32%) and hospitality 25% (up from 22%) – nationally, the Spring 2026 figures are the lowest for a decade (allowing for the outbreak of Covid and the first national lockdown in April 2020). It is also the first time in a decade that the percentage of small businesses predicting growth has remained at under 30% for four consecutive quarters.

Percentage of small businesses predicting growth each April over the last decade

These static growth forecasts for 2026 come at a time when more than three in four small businesses (78%) fear disruption to their enterprises that result from current geo-political and economic uncertainty. Of those that expressed concerns: 

·      45% of small businesses feared the impact the Middle East war would have on their business and supply chain. This rose sharply to 70% for small businesses in the transport and distribution sector, 68% for those in the agriculture sector and 61% of manufacturing small businesses.

·      17% of UK small businesses also said that the war in Ukraine and instability in the broader region would impact their business and supply chain.

·      16% of respondents said they still feared the potential impact of US tariffs on the UK.

·      As a result of all this uncertainty on the UK economy, 71% of small businesses said they feared the prospect of the UK government raising UK taxation later in the year.

These findings follow Novuna Business Finance research in March on rising energy prices, after the outbreak of war in the Middle East region, which revealed that small businesses estimated their transport costs would increase by an average of £753.56 a month, and the cost of running machinery estimated to rise by an average of £785.92.

North South growth divide emerging

Around the UK, the regional data suggested early signs of a north-south divide emerging for the summer months. In the North East, the percentage of small businesses predicting growth rose from 22% last quarter to 33% for the three-months to the end of June. There was a similar rise in the North West, with small business growth forecasts up from 22% to 26% since last quarter. In contrast, the percentage of small businesses in London predicting growth fell (from 40% to 37%). The same was true in the South East, with growth forecasts falling from (23% to 21%).

Joanna Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance comments: “From 10 years of tracking small business outlook, the spring months usually see a rise in confidence, but this year growth forecasts remain static. Without question, current worries over energy prices and broader economic uncertainty are of great concern to many business owners. Looking back over the decade, the growth outlook of small businesses is now settling at a level that is much lower than what was the norm before the pandemic. 

“This is a concern, but it also highlights the work that needs to be done to help small businesses take a longer-term view and feel supported in making the investments needed to secure growth. Novuna Business Finance is committed to supporting established enterprises with funding that will help them navigate market uncertainty and power future growth.”

The timely advice has been issued by a leading motoring website – DrivingExperience.com – which highlights how this month is ideal for those in the market for a motor, such as an older model, approved used or second-hand car.

One of the main reasons is that March sees the arrival of new ‘26’ number plates, meaning car dealerships are keen to get rid of old stock in February with the previous year’s registration, especially if there’s little space on the forecourt.

Additionally, February is one of the slowest months for car sales, with cold weather keeping people indoors and with post-Christmas bills to be paid, meaning car salespeople are more likely to negotiate on price.

The lack of other car buyers also gives potential car buyers more time to consider their options, with less pressure to make a rash purchase.

Imran Malek, corporate sales manager at DrivingExperience.com, said: “While February is famous for romance and pancakes, it is less well known in the UK as one of the best months of the year to buy a car.

“The UK’s love affair with the number plate change, which happens every March and September, means the month before is an ideal opportunity to look for a four-wheel bargain.

“This is even more so in February when cold weather and a post-Christmas financial hang over are thrown into the mix, deterring other buyers and making deals even more likely.”

Another February influence is that dealers are aiming to meet end-of-quarter (March) goals, meaning discounts are more possible.

Imran added: “Car buyers hold all the cards in February, putting them in a great position to pick up a bargain from dealers who are planning for the arrival of the new registration plates launch in March.”

For more information about DrivingExperience.com, which offers a diverse range of cars and vehicles available to book for driving experiences at race tracks and other venues across the UK, visit www.drivingexperience.com.

By industry sector, small business owners in manufacturing (89%), construction (87%), transport and distribution (87%), and agriculture (84%) where most likely to report being kept awake at night by business worries.

Compared to the position two-years ago, the biggest rises in business owner concerns related to tax and interest rates (up from 28% to 42%), a worry that has been more prevalent among small business owners since the National Insurance hike for businesses that took effect last April. Worries over red tape (up from 21% to 30%), compliance and regulations (25%) and business rates (22%) also recorded rises – with concerns over cashflow and retaining business largely unchanged compared to two-years ago.

Regionally, business worries were most likely to be keeping small business owners awake at night in the South West (82%), the North West (81%), Yorkshire (81%) and the South East (80%).

The findings are part of the Business Barometer study from Novuna Business Finance, which has tracked small business growth outlook every quarter for the last 11 years. With small business owners grappling with challenges on a daily basis, Novuna Business Finance asked a nationally representative sample of 1,000 business owners which worries kept them awake at night – as a measure of the business concerns that were taken most seriously, issues that business owners could not switch-off from. 

Joanna Morris, Head of Insight at Novuna Business Finance Comments: “At the start of 2026 we saw the first, slight rise in small business growth outlook for 18-months. That said, our latest data suggests that this comes at a human cost for many business owners, many of whom take their business worries home with them and struggle to switch-off.  When business owners are kept awake at night working through enterprise issues, we gain a sense of the intensity of some of these concerns for entrepreneurs. Further, our research suggests that sleepless nights are not just confined to businesses that are struggling to grow. Managing fast-paced or significant growth can also be stressful for established businesses. Among those enterprises surveyed that predicted significant expansion this quarter, there was a significant rise in the percentage of business owners that said business worries kept them awake at night.”

Novuna Business Finance provides business finance to SMEs and bigger corporations across the UK. This includes asset finance, stocking, block discounting and sustainable project finance provided through brokers, vendor organisations, manufacturers and direct to the business community.    

Based in the striking Grade II listed Richard Irvin building, the seven-surgery clinic has become a well-established provider of affordable cosmetic and general dentistry since its original launch in 2009. Now, under the ownership of Jarlath McAteer and Jamie Dury, the practice is undergoing a significant upgrade designed to increase clinical capacity and modernise facilities.

The investment includes:

• Construction of two additional state-of-the-art surgeries
• Installation of upgraded digital and clinical equipment
• Reconfigured workspace to accommodate a growing team
• Enhanced patient areas to improve comfort and accessibility

The expansion will also lead to the recruitment of two additional dentists and support staff, increasing access to care for the local community.

The practice currently employs 32 staff, including seven dentists, with further recruitment already underway ahead of completion. The expansion will increase clinical capacity at a time when access to dental care remains a significant issue across the region.

Images: Liam Oakes @liamoakesphoto    Drone shot: Zoe Robertson

Jarlath said: “We’ve always believed in the long-term future of this practice and of North Shields. This investment is about creating space to grow, improving patient experience, and ensuring we’re equipped with the very best clinical technology.”

Jamie added: “The Fish Quay is undergoing an exciting transformation, and we’re proud to be investing in one of its landmark buildings. This is about building something sustainable for the next generation of patients.”

The refurbishment is expected to complete in end of March, when Union Quay Dental will mark one year since the transition in ownership with a formal relaunch.

The development aligns with growing confidence in North Shields, as the town bids for UK Town of Culture 2028 status.

Further details on the full refurbishment and expansion will be announced in the coming weeks.

https://www.unionquaydental.co.uk/

The relaunch follows 18 months of intensive development focused on delivering a significantly enhanced data portal and tailored valuation methodologies for finance and leasing providers. Additionally, an all-new market stock and pricing comparison portal for OEMs and leasing companies demonstrates Cazana’s intent to further penetrate these sectors.

The decision to reintroduce the Cazana brand restores a differentiated, trusted and familiar name to the whole automotive sector. The relaunch coincides with the unveiling of a new website and a significantly upgraded platform.

During this period, partners including Motors (Cazoo), Experian, Cartotrade and AUCA have seamlessly integrated with the platform via API, providing unprecedented access to rich, real-time vehicle data.

Percayso has transformed the Cazana portal to provide deeper visibility, smarter tools and greater commercial control. Key features include:

• Companion delivers real-time VRM valuations and tiered retail guides. It includes a full vehicle history and a transparent methodology via live market listings, with all data accessible via a web portal or a simple API.
• Companion Used Car Forecasts provide 1-month to 5-year forecasts, helping retailers value part-exchanges and leasing firms predict EV/defleet residuals. For longer-term planning, 10-year forecasts are accessible via API.
• Cazana Monthly- adds static used car valuations for a fixed monthly view.
• Developed for a Chinese OEM, Stockcompare benchmarks regional prices and demand against competitors. By comparing franchise and independent sales, it helps protect residual values—helping OEMs, fleets, and leasing firms optimise where and to whom they remarket.
• Stockview: A Companion add-on providing stock pricing, turnover data, and repricing advice, plus local competitor and vehicle insights.

Ian Lilley, Director of Automotive, said: “Cazana is a name strongly associated with automotive intelligence. We are bringing back a brand that the industry knows and trusts, now paired with significantly enhanced intelligence capabilities.

“The upgraded platform enables leasecos, fleets and finance companies to price more accurately, buy more efficiently and operate with greater confidence.

“Our advanced RV modelling will give finance and lease companies access to accurate valuations, and we are working with OEMs to provide brand-specific pricing and location visibility across the UK.

“Rebranding clarifies our target audience and reinforces our commitment to specialist automotive insight. This move aligns our brand with an established market identity and strengthens our position as a provider of real-time, market-leading vehicle intelligence.”

In support of the relaunch, automotive expert Derren Martin has been brought in to leverage his extensive expertise in pricing and vehicle valuation. He will lead Cazana’s automotive market insight, thought leadership and customer engagement strategy, serving as the brand’s lead spokesperson across the sector.

Derren added: “It’s exciting to bring back a name that immediately instils trust within motor industry professionals. The work undertaken to rebuild the platforms with a dealer-centric focus and expand into the wider OEM, finance and leasing sectors makes this an exciting opportunity.

“By combining trusted brand heritage with cutting-edge data intelligence, we are empowering the automotive market to make smarter, data-driven decisions and achieve greater profitability.”

Cazana is underpinned by one of the most comprehensive vehicle intelligence databases available, offering:

• Unparalleled data depth – Over 800,000 unique VRNs and millions of data points drawn from more than 12,000 sources, updated daily.
• Extensive market history – Access to more than one billion live and historic vehicle adverts dating back to 2012, all mapped to the Vehicle Registration Mark (VRM).
• Precision intelligence – Tailored retail valuations for individual vehicles, incorporating live, historic and forward-looking residual value forecasts.

Falken Tyre Europe GmbH (Falken) is launching a new chapter with its Adventure Camp initiative, placing the FALKEN WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA all‑terrain tyre at the centre of real‑world testing. The Falken Adventure Camp New York State will take place from 28 May to 7 June 2026, guiding participants through a variety of landscapes and road conditions across the State of New York. Interested participants can apply until 31 March 2026 via the campaign website www.falken-adventure.com.

The Falken WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA is designed for drivers who regularly switch between urban traffic, country roads and unpaved routes. The aim of the camp is to make this transition tangible and to demonstrate how an all‑terrain tyre performs both on everyday journeys and in more demanding off‑road environments.

The Falken WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA enters the Adventure Camp with strong credentials: in the Auto Motor und Sport off‑road tyre test (September 2025), it took first place overall, outperforming six other all‑terrain models. The tyre delivered particularly impressive results on loose surfaces, offering short braking distances, stable lateral grip and high traction across a range of terrains.

The planned routes link urban areas with expansive natural landscapes including forests, gravel tracks, remote trails and open countryside. The tour is intended to demonstrate how modern mobility and nature‑focused exploration can complement one another. The camp’s approach deliberately avoids extreme off‑road scenarios, instead highlighting real‑world driving situations in which an all‑terrain tyre can showcase its versatility.

With initiatives such as the Adventure Camp, Falken aims to make its marketing activities more experience‑driven. Rather than presenting products in isolation, the intention is to make them tangible in real‑life scenarios. In doing so, Falken seeks to highlight the strengths of its products while creating opportunities to experience their performance first‑hand.

17 February 2026 – GWM UK has handed over a new GWM POER300 Ultra pick-up to NFU Scotland (NFUS), supporting the organisation’s day-to-day operations across the country and marking the newly launched GWM–NFU Scotland affinity programme. The partnership gives NFU Scotland members access to exclusive discounts on the POER300 range, as part of the Union’s ongoing work to secure practical, cost-saving benefits for farming and crofting businesses.

Supplied by Scottish GWM retailer A F Noble, the vehicle was officially handed over with Steven Cooper from A F Noble and Alan Coyle, Regional Sales Manager at GWM UK, in attendance. The pick-up was received on behalf of NFU Scotland by Jackie Saunders and Tom Graham.

The POER300 will be used as a shared vehicle by NFU Scotland staff, supporting activities such as attending agricultural events, towing equipment, visiting farms and rural businesses, and transporting equipment across Scotland. It will also be used by the organisation’s Chief Executive when attending official functions. The new pick-up replaces a previous vehicle in the NFUS fleet.

Finished in Crystal Black, the GWM POER300 Ultra is fitted with a modular canopy and towbar with ball and pin, making it well-suited to the varied demands of NFU Scotland’s work. The vehicle also features NFU Scotland branding, including official NFUS decals and a QR code directing users to NFUS membership sign-up.

The POER300 has been added to NFU Scotland’s fleet as part of the organisation’s participation in GWM UK’s affinity programme, reflecting its role as the programme’s first partner.

Alan Coyle, Regional Sales Manager at GWM UK, said: “We’re delighted to see NFU Scotland take delivery of the POER300 and put it straight to work supporting their operations across the country. The POER300 is designed to meet the real-world demands of farming and rural life, and NFU Scotland is a natural partner for GWM as we continue to grow our presence in the UK. This handover is a great example of how our affinity programme brings practical benefits to trusted organisations and their members.”

Jackie Saunders, Member Services Manager at NFU Scotland, said: “The POER300 has been selected to support NFU Scotland’s operational needs, including travel to events, farm visits and towing equipment across Scotland. Through our affinity partnership with GWM, we’re pleased to be able to highlight this vehicle to members as an option available through the scheme.”

GWM and NFU Scotland Affinity Programme
The launch of the POER300 pick-up represents a key opportunity for GWM to broaden its appeal, particularly within the farming and agricultural community. GWM’s ‘Get a Truckload More’ marketing campaign has helped establish the brand as a distinctive new entrant in the UK pick-up market, and the affinity programme builds on this momentum.

NFU Scotland is the first official partner in GWM UK’s affinity programme, which provides the NFUS members with access to information and offers associated with the POER300 as part of a wider range of vehicle options. Additional affinity partners will be announced over the coming months as GWM continues to strengthen awareness and sales opportunities across the UK.

About NFU Scotland
At NFU Scotland, our mission is to support and promote our members to achieve a sustainable and profitable future for Scottish agriculture.

Formed in 1913, NFU Scotland is Scotland’s leading agricultural organisation, representing 9,000 farmers, crofters, growers and supporters across the country. NFUS works closely with sister organisations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as rural, business and consumer groups, to deliver on its purpose.

NFU Scotland keeps members informed on major policy and legislative issues affecting their businesses, supported by 52 Group Secretaries, 10 regions, and 72 local branches. The organisation also provides strong political representation, lobbying the Scottish Government, Westminster and European institutions to ensure the voice of Scottish agriculture is heard.

With a high public profile and hundreds of media engagements each year, NFU Scotland continues to influence public opinion and champion the interests of Scottish farmers.

Founded in 1914 as Quay Garage Co. Ltd, the business has remained in the same family since 1932 and has served the South Hams community for more than 110 years. Over the decades, the dealership has built a strong reputation for dependable service, expert repairs, and customer care.

Now operating from modern premises on Higher Union Road, Quay Auto Centre offers customers in Kingsbridge and the surrounding areas access to the full KGM range. This includes the flagship Rexton 7-seater SUV, multi-award-winning Musso pick-up, compact Tivoli, and family-ready Korando, along with the all-new Actyon and Torres Hybrids, and electric Torres EVX.

Michael Trembath, Dealer Principal at Quay Auto Centre, said: “We’re proud to represent KGM and to bring such a dynamic, capable range of vehicles to our customers in South Devon. Our long-standing history in the town is built on quality service and local trust. Values we see reflected in the KGM brand. We’re excited for this next chapter in our journey and for all customers, new and old, to come and see the KGM range for themselves.”

The appointment of Quay Auto Centre comes as KGM UK continues to expand its nationwide presence and product line-up. Following its rebrand from SsangYong in January 2024, KGM has launched an exciting portfolio of new models, including the striking Actyon, a bold, coupe-inspired SUV available exclusively in high-spec K50 trim, and the first model launched under the KGM name as part of the brand’s 70th anniversary.

Kevin Griffin, Managing Director at KGM Motors UK, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Quay Auto Centre to the KGM family. Their long-standing service to the community and proven track record makes them a valuable addition to our network. Their appointment strengthens our coverage in the South West and ensures more customers can experience the quality, value and practicality KGM vehicles offer.”

For more information or to book a test drive, visit: www.kgm-motors.co.uk

Road safety and breakdown recovery specialist GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to get their cars winter‑ready, as cold, wintry conditions bring a higher risk of breakdowns and difficult driving over the coming days. ​ 

Met Office yellow warnings for snow and ice are in force across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern and eastern England, with icy stretches also expected in some eastern counties further south¹. Forecasters say an Arctic maritime air mass is bringing colder air southwards, with rain, sleet and snow creating slippery surfaces and the risk of travel disruption, particularly on higher routes and untreated roads.

GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst says a little preparation now can prevent a lot of inconvenience later. “Cold weather puts real strain on a car’s 12‑volt battery, and its ability to hold charge drops significantly as temperatures fall,” he said.

“That means it may be at its weakest just when you need it most, so it makes sense to carry out a few simple checks before you set off.

“It is also important to stay tuned to the latest weather forecasts, as conditions can change quickly over short distances. Snow in particular is difficult to predict with precision, so an area with only a low risk in the morning could see heavier falls or icy surfaces by later in the day.

“By checking updated forecasts and travel advice before your journey, you can hopefully avoid the worst of the weather and make the right decision on whether, when and how to travel.”

Keep on top of the cold:
GEM’s five checks for motorists facing wintry conditions: 

• Check your battery age and condition; consider a test or replacement if it’s more than five years old. ​ 
• Inspect tyres for tread and pressures so they can grip properly on cold, wet or icy roads. ​ 
• Top up screenwash and make sure wipers and lights are clean and working well. ​
• Allow extra time, reduce your speed and increase following distances on icy or untreated roads. ​ 
• Pack warm clothing, a fully charged mobile phone and a scraper or de‑icer for every journey. ​ 

The agreement was signed between the Ministry of Technology and Communications of the Lao PDR, represented by H.E. Saleumxay Kommasith, Minister of Technology and Communications, and MENAS Capital LLC, represented by H.E. Khalifa Matar Al Mazrouei, Chairman of MENAS Capital LLC.

The strategic cooperation aims to support the development of the ASEAN Digital and Artificial Intelligence Center project, fostering innovation, advancing digital transformation, and promoting the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence technologies across the region. The initiative seeks to position Laos as a regional hub for digital innovation, research collaboration, and cross-border technology development within ASEAN and beyond.

The signing ceremony brought together distinguished guests, senior officials, and business leaders from Laos and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the shared commitment of both parties to strengthening international partnerships in emerging technologies and digital infrastructure.

H.E. Saleumxay Kommasith emphasised the importance of international collaboration in accelerating Laos’ digital transformation agenda and supporting the country’s vision for a modern and inclusive digital economy.

Representing MENAS Capital LLC, H.E. Khalifa Matar Al Mazrouei highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, stating that MENAS Capital is committed to advancing innovation, technology investment and cross-regional collaboration between ASEAN and the Middle East. He emphasised the firm’s strong interest in supporting investment in green energy and sustainable infrastructure projects in Laos, recognising the country’s competitive renewable energy advantage. He reaffirmed MENAS Capital’s commitment to contributing capital, expertise and long-term partnership to accelerate the ASEAN Digital and Artificial Intelligence Hub Initiative and strengthen sustainable digital ecosystems across the region.

The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation in areas including artificial intelligence development, digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems, research collaboration and technology investment. The initiative is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, support skills development and accelerate sustainable economic growth through advanced digital technologies.

In addition, both parties highlighted the strategic opportunity to promote investment in data centre infrastructure in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Laos is widely recognised for its strong renewable energy base, with hydropower forming the backbone of its electricity supply. The country benefits from competitively priced green electricity compared with many neighbouring markets, creating a clear cost advantage for energy-intensive digital infrastructure.

With significant available land, expanding infrastructure and access to stable low-carbon power, Laos presents an attractive location for sustainable, green-powered data centres. Such investment would support artificial intelligence, cloud services and regional digital platforms, while reinforcing Laos’ ambition to become a trusted regional hub for digital innovation built on affordable and environmentally responsible energy.

This collaboration reflects the growing ties between Southeast Asia and the Middle East in shaping the future of digital economies and advancing cross-regional innovation.