Markets
Only what changes a small business’s costs. Figures are indicative, sourced and time-stamped.
UK retail sales up 0.5% in August — but shoppers are spending 6% more for 2.4% more goods
ONS data for August: retail sales volumes rose 0.5% on the month and 0.9% over three months. Over the year volumes are up 2.4% while the value of sales is up 6.0% — a 3.5 percentage point gap that is pure price. Online accounts for 27.4% of sales, peaking every November. Next release: 23 October.
London trade shows: Olympia and ExCeL, what is on this autumn, and how to get in free
The trade show is the most underrated free resource a small business has: suppliers, wholesale prices and customers in one hall. The full Olympia and ExCeL calendar from September to November, from Top Drawer and Speciality Fine Food to World Travel Market and The Business Show. Plus the key fact: almost every B2B show is free if you register in advance.
HMRC advisory fuel rates from 1 September: diesel down, large petrol up
HMRC has revised the advisory fuel rates for company cars. Diesel at 1601-2000cc and above 2000cc each fall by a penny; petrol above 2000cc rises to 27p a mile. Electric is unchanged at 7p at home and 15p on public charging.
Bank Rate: the decision lands on 17 September, with inflation rising again
Bank Rate has stood at 3.75% since 30 July. Annual CPI inflation rose to 2.9% in July from 2.6% in June. The Monetary Policy Committee announces at noon on 17 September.
The Bank of England announces its rate decision on 17 September
Bank Rate has stood at 3.75% since the decision of 30 July. The next Monetary Policy Committee announcement is on 17 September.