Membership

70% of UK businesses fear economic uncertainty most as climate hits profits, hiring and costs, Azets research finds UK businesses have been hit hard by economic issues and remain worried and pessimistic about the future of UK plc, according to new research from international accountancy and business advisory group Azets. The findings of the Q2 2026 Azets Barometer showed [...]

May 2026 insolvency statistics; Azets response There were 1,868 corporate insolvencies in May 2026 – 10.5% fewer than in April 2026 (2,087), and 16.3% fewer than in May 2025 (2,231) Richard Oddy, Restructuring and Insolvency partner at international accountancy and business advisory group Azets, said: “The monthly and annual fall in corporate insolvencies reflects the change in Compulsory Liquidation [...]

Temporary VAT Reduction May Lead to ‘Summer of Disruption for Businesses’ Azets tax specialist advises early action to ensure compliance and minimise disruption The temporary VAT reduction for children’s meals, admissions and family attractions could lead to a summer of disruption for businesses across the North West says UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets. Aimed at families, it is [...]

Azets’ team (l-r) Alex Vahey, Jess Roocroft, Becca Murdoch, Ewan McNeil, Krish Khambhu A group of accountants from Lancaster swapped their calculators for courage and completed a Pretty Muddy challenge – raising more than £800 for Cancer Research. The competitors work for the Lancaster branch of the UK top 10 accountancy and advisory firm Azets. The 5K race took [...]

Review payroll processes amid tighter minimum wage scrutiny, bosses warned Employers across the North West are being urged to review their payroll processes and employment practices urgently amid growing scrutiny over National Minimum Wage (NMW) compliance and the expanding enforcement powers of the Fair Work Agency (FWA). International business advisory group Azets, which has offices across the region, has [...]

CEI Solutions Joins Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Patron Network Local business strengthens its commitment to supporting young people across Blackburn and Darwen Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone is delighted to announce that CEI Solutions has joined its growing Patron network, providing vital financial support to help the charity continue delivering life-changing opportunities for young people across the borough. [...]

Blackburn Budget Breakfast The Chancellor of the Exchequer will present the next Budget to Parliament on Wednesday, 28th October 2026. Following the Speech, we are hosting a FREE seminar which will cover the issues raised and highlight business and personal planning opportunities, followed by an excellent networking opportunity, you can’t afford to miss it. Please join us in the [...]

Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone Annual Quiz Join us for the Blackburn Darwen Youth Zone Annual Quiz. Taking over the reins from Cummins Mellor, we’re looking forward to hosting an evening of fun, networking and fundraising in support of the youth zone. Halloween fancy dress is optional, so gather your team and get involved! Date: Thursday 15th October Location: [...]