February 25th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

British Airways and American Express have today launched celebrations to mark 25 years of the British Airways American Express® Cards.

To kick off the anniversary year, eligible British Airways American Express® Cardmembers can collect 25% more Avios on qualifying spend until 8 April 2026. The limited-time offer is available to the first 200,000 British Airways American Express® Premium Plus and British Airways American Express® Credit Cardmembers on each Card who enrol by saving the offer to their Card Account. They must meet the qualifying spend to receive the additional Avios.

As British Airways and American Express celebrate 25 years of partnership, Cardmembers can look forward to more news on anniversary offers and exclusive prizes throughout the year, where millions of bonus Avios will be awarded to Cardmembers.

Caroline Bouvet, Vice President, UK Products at American Express, said: “For 25 years our partnership with British Airways has helped Cardmembers turn everyday spending into memorable travel experiences. As we kick off this milestone anniversary year, we’re rewarding our Cardmembers with more opportunities to collect Avios to get them closer to their next trip. The offer is just the start of a special year of celebration with more exclusive rewards to come for British Airways American Express Cardmembers.”

Colm Lacy, Chief Commercial Officer, British Airways, said: “For a quarter of a century, our partnership with American Express has helped our customers get even more out of every journey. This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate our loyal customers, and throughout the year we’ll be introducing even more ways for them to unlock added value, more rewards and memorable travel experiences when they fly with us.”  

Rob McDonald, Chief Commercial Officer at IAG Loyalty, said: “Celebrating 25 years of partnership with American Express is a proud milestone for us. Over the past quarter of a century, we have worked together to help bring the world closer to our customers with the power of loyalty. This exclusive Avios bonus offer is a fitting way to kick off our anniversary celebrations, and we know this will be valued by our customers.”

British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Cardmember offer¹

British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Cardmembers who enrol in the offer and spend £4,000 by 8 April 2026 will collect an additional 1,500 bonus Avios – a 25% bonus on the Avios they’d usually collect*. Terms Apply.

Cardmembers can collect 1.5 Avios for every £1 spent on everyday purchases, and 3 Avios on purchases made with British Airways or British Airways Holidays, with the Avios collected then able to be redeemed against flights, hotels, car hire and more.

When Cardmembers spend £15,000 in a Cardmembership year they also receive a Companion Voucher. This allows them to take a friend or family member on the same flight – including World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Club (Business) and First – for no additional Avios. If travelling solo, they will receive a 50% discount on the Avios price for their Reward flight. Cardmembers will also have access to additional Reward Flight seats in Club World when booking with a Companion Voucher.

From April 2026, British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Cardmembers will have another opportunity to earn tier points on their everyday spend, helping them to unlock more British Airways Club benefits.

The British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card has an annual fee, and a representative APR of 135.7% variable. Terms and conditions apply.

British Airways American Express® Credit Cardmember offer²

British Airways American Express® Credit Cardmembers who enrol in the offer and spend £2,000 by 8 April 2026 will collect an additional 500 bonus Avios – a 25% bonus on the Avios they’d usually collect. Terms apply.

Cardmembers can collect 1 Avios for every £1 spent on purchases, with no annual fee. When Cardmembers spend £15,000 in a Cardmembership year they will also receive a Companion Voucher. This allows them to take a friend or family member on the same flight in Euro Traveller or World Traveller (Economy), or if travelling solo, they will receive a 50% discount on the Avios price for their Reward Flight.

The British Airways American Express® Credit Card has a representative APR of 29.1% variable. Terms and conditions apply.

The limited-time offer is available to the first 200,000 Cardmembers on each Card who enrol, by saving the offer to their Card Account and meeting the qualifying spend.

Eligible new Cardmembers can receive a welcome bonus when they apply and are approved for British Airways American Express Cards. Eligible new British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Cardmembers can collect 30,000 bonus Avios when they spend £6,000 in their first three months, and eligible new British Airways American Express® Credit Cardmembers can collect 5,000 bonus Avios when they spend £2,000 in their first three months. New Cardmembers can apply via the American Express website.

February 23rd, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

While it can feel unsettling, quiet trading periods offer a valuable opportunity to pause, review spending, and strengthen operations. Rather than reacting when cash flow tightens, proactive cost management allows UK businesses to stay in control and build resilience for the long term.

Reviewing supplier contracts and subscriptions

One of the simplest ways to reduce costs is to audit your regular outgoings. From utilities and insurance to software subscriptions and maintenance agreements, small monthly payments quickly add up. Setting aside time to review these commitments can uncover many savings opportunities.

Consider renegotiating contracts or switching providers where better rates are available. Many suppliers are willing to offer discounts to retain loyal customers, particularly if you approach them with competitive quotes. It’s also worth cancelling unused or duplicate subscriptions, especially for digital tools that may have been introduced during busier periods.

Streamlining operations and processes

Slower periods are ideal for identifying inefficiencies in day-to-day operations. Look closely at workflows and ask where time, money, or resources may be wasted. Even small process improvements can produce meaningful savings over time.

Additionally, automation tools can reduce manual admin tasks like invoicing, payroll, and stock management. Outsourcing non-core functions, such as IT support or marketing, may also prove more cost-effective than maintaining an in-house capacity during quieter months.

Making the most of underused assets

Many businesses hold assets that are not fully utilised, including equipment, office space, or vehicles. Renting out spare space or leasing underused equipment can generate additional income during slower trading periods.

If company vehicles are no longer essential, auctioning them can free up valuable capital. Preparing vehicles properly before sale is key. We recommend arranging an independent vehicle inspection to help demonstrate transparency, reassure buyers, and support a fair sale price.

Planning for the next busy period

Downtime should also be used to prepare for future growth. If budgets allow, investing in staff training or upgrading systems can improve productivity when demand increases. Setting aside a portion of savings into a contingency fund can also protect the business during future slow spells.

Looking ahead to a leaner, stronger business

Small, thoughtful changes made during slower periods can have a lasting impact. By reviewing expenses, improving efficiency, and unlocking value from underused assets, businesses can emerge more agile and financially resilient.

When trading picks up again, those careful decisions will help position your company for sustainable success.

February 23rd, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

With the groups for the World Cup 2026 now set, fans of England, Scotland; and should they qualify; Northern Ireland and Wales, can begin planning their trips to the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Multitrip.com, a specialist travel insurance provider, is urging supporters booking for summer 2026 to ensure they have worldwide travel insurance cover that includes the USA and Canada in place from the moment they book, with enough cancellation cover to protect their trip.

Treatment in the United States tends to be more expensive than in many other countries. Multitrip.com’s claims data shows the average medical claim in the country is £14,600, more than twelve times the European average of £1,200.

Some high-cost claim examples included a fractured leg in the USA costing £280,288³, vomiting over £7,000 and shoulder pain over £3,000.   

Insurance is also crucial for trips to Canada and Mexico where treatment for a fractured lower leg in Mexico can cost £35,703. Healthcare costs across North America generally are very high so the same applies to travellers heading to Canada.

Cancellation is also a major risk. More than one in four (28%) Multitrip.com travel insurance claims relate to cancellation, often due to illness or injury affecting the traveller or a close relative, showing the importance of buying travel insurance at the same time as booking the trip.

Christian Bennett from Multitrip.com said: “This World Cup will be a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many supporters. However medical care in the USA is amongst the most expensive in the world, and even a short hospital stay in the US can result in bills running into tens of thousands of pounds². The financial risk of travelling without comprehensive worldwide travel insurance is significant.”

Multitrip.com Annual Worldwide (including USA/Canada) cover starts from £44.68^.. Prices exclude £3.95 handling fee. Visit www.multitrip.com for quotes and policy details.

February 19th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Employee benefits often look impressive on paper yet fail in real life. A glossy list of perks does not guarantee that people feel supported, valued, or motivated. The difference between a benefit that exists and a benefit that truly works comes down to relevance and usability. When designed thoughtfully, workplace schemes can strengthen retention, improve wellbeing, and even elevate performance. When designed poorly, they become expensive decorations.

Start With Real Employee Needs

Effective benefits begin with listening, not guessing. Demographics alone cannot tell you what employees care about. Two people in the same age group may have completely different priorities. One might value student loan support while another is focused on elder care.

Anonymous surveys, short pulse polls, and usage data from existing benefits reveal what actually matters. Patterns often emerge that challenge assumptions. For example, mental health services may be requested across all seniority levels, not just among younger staff. Flexible scheduling might outrank trendy office perks.

Benefits designed from real feedback feel personal rather than corporate.

Focus On Benefits That Remove Stress

Employees tend to value anything that reduces friction in daily life. Stress is not limited to workload. It includes financial pressure, health concerns, time management struggles, and uncertainty about the future.

Financial wellness programs can deliver surprising impact. Tools that help with budgeting, debt management, or retirement planning often outperform flashier incentives. Health benefits that cover preventive care, therapy, or telemedicine save employees time and worry. Even practical assistance like commuter subsidies or childcare support can reshape how employees experience their workday.

Make Benefits Easy To Understand And Use

A benefit that is confusing or hidden behind complicated processes might as well not exist. Employees should not need a handbook detective mission to figure out eligibility rules.

Clear language matters. Replace technical jargon with simple explanations. Provide real examples of how a benefit works. Offer a central, easy to navigate benefits hub. Short videos and quick reference guides help far more than dense policy documents.

Accessibility also includes timing. Enrollment windows, approval processes, and reimbursement systems should feel smooth and predictable.

Personalisation Beats One Size Fits All

Rigid benefit packages often miss the mark. Modern employees expect choice. Flexible benefit models allow individuals to allocate resources where they see the most value.

Some employees prioritise extra vacation time. Others prefer professional development funding or health related options. Customisable stipends or modular benefits give employees agency without dramatically increasing employer costs.

Think Beyond Traditional Perks

The most appreciated benefits are sometimes the least obvious. Career growth support, mentorship programs, and skill development budgets consistently rank high in satisfaction surveys.

Learning benefits communicate investment in the employee’s future. Internal mobility programs reduce stagnation. Coaching and leadership development create pathways rather than promises.

Even emerging areas like sustainability focused benefits are gaining traction. For instance, organisations exploring transportation incentives may consult this procurement team guide to EV schemes when evaluating environmentally conscious commuting options.

Employees are quick to recognise when benefits are thoughtful rather than performative. Organisations that invest in meaningful, well designed programs often see deeper loyalty and a healthier work culture.

The goal is not to impress. It is to support. When benefits align with everyday realities, everyone wins.

February 11th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

The beginning of a new year can offer a great opportunity to take back control over your finances and lay the foundation of long-term wealth. Of course, changing every aspect at once may not be feasible for every couple or family. However, there are plenty of small habits and initiatives that can help you save more, reduce your debt, and improve your financial outlook over time. Let’s look at some tips below. 

Set Clear Financial Goals

One of the most important starting points is to set clear financial goals. Don’t be too general when setting your objectives! Simply stating “I want to save more” or “I wish to reduce my credit card debt” may not get you so far. Instead, try writing down a few, concrete, measurable, and achievable goals. Some examples include: 

• Save £3,000 for a summer holiday by June 2026
• Pay off £1,500 in credit card debt within 12 months
• Build a £1,000 emergency fund by setting aside £80 a month

Make a Monthly Budget

Next up, work with your family, partner, or friend to create a well-planned monthly budget. This should account for your income, including your salary and any dividend you may receive, as well as outgoings, such as mortgage payments or rent, groceries, childcare, and car-related costs. 

The trick with making a monthly budget is to adjust it to the month ahead. During some periods, such as Christmas or summer, you may be spending more, while some months can offer a great opportunity for saving more. So, make it a monthly appointment to review your budget!

Track Your Spending

Tracking your spending may sound simple, but it’s often too easy to overlook costs and underestimate the impact of impulse purchases! To avoid surprises, use apps to track your spendings and review your statements at the end of the month to check where you could have saved more and what habits need adjusting.  

Build an Emergency Fund

Building an emergency fund is essential to navigate rainy days and manage your finances with peace of mind. Plus, having a solid savings account can help you lay solid foundations for long-term wealth! To make it easier to build your fund, automate transfers each month. This way, you may not even realise that you are saving, but a percentage of your salary is automatically redirected to your saving fund. 

Pay Down Your Debt

Your debt can have a significant impact on long-term finances. It is not just about having outstanding monthly payments that can weigh on your wallet and peace of mind. It is also about the interest rates that can inflate your outstanding debts, especially in the case of high high-interest borrowing like credit card debt or payday loans. For example, you might focus on paying off your credit card balance first, or making extra payments each month towards your mortgage to reduce what you owe faster.

Some tips to better manage your debt include:

• Make a full list of all your debts
• Pay at least the minimum amount on every debt
• Set up automatic payments to avoid missing deadlines
• Avoid taking out new loans or credit cards
• Look for ways to increase your income
• Cut out non-essential spending until debts are paid
• Celebrate small milestones to stay motivated

Plan Your Taxes

Tax planning may seem something that just businesses and corporations do. However, planning your taxes properly can have many benefits, especially if you are self-employed or you wish to optimise your income. 

One of the best tax planning strategies is to work with a specialist. Other tips include:

• Keep all tax records in one place
• Note down tax return submission deadlines
• Maximise your Personal Allowance 
• Check if you qualify for tax reliefs
• Claim allowable work expenses
• Review your tax code each year
• Beware of tax refund scams

Review Your Subscriptions

Today, subscriptions are truly everywhere—for streaming services, clothes, food and drinks, and more. While these may be very convenient, they may cause you to lose track of your spendings. For instance, did you know that, in the UK, the average spent on subscriptions is between £91 and £301 depending on age?

This month, take a minute to review your subscription and cut down on services that you may not truly need at this time. 

Build Consistent Saving Habits

The right saving habits can make a real difference in how much you are able to save up this month. And, this is not about doubling your salary or drastically reducing your expenses. It is more about noticing how you manage your money on a daily basis. While the best strategies may vary from one person to another, some golden rules include:

• Set a savings goal each month
• Use standing orders to automatically top up your savings
• Open a high-interest savings account
• Save any unexpected income or bonuses
• Keep savings in a separate account
• Avoid impulse purchases
• Join workplace savings schemes
• Take part in savings challenges
• Track your savings progress

Start Investing

Investing isn’t just for millionaires! No matter what your starting point is, there are many user-friendly platforms that allow you to start investing even with minimal capital. Keep in mind that investing isn’t the same as trading. Instead, it is more of a long-term, calculated strategy that allows you to take advantage of key concepts such as compound interest. 

Everyone has a different strategy, but some simple starting points include:

• Learn what an ISA (Individual Savings Account) is—and start topping it up!
• Start with a small, regular investment
• Research robo-advisors and investing apps
• Check for investment fees and charges
• Diversify your investments
• Avoid “get rich quick” schemes

Last but not least, understand what your risk tolerance is and only invest what you can afford to lose!

Getting Started

Above we have looked at some easy strategies that you can implement in your daily habits today to make a big difference down the line. However, of course, if you have doubts or are unsure how to start, it may always be worth it to partner with an expert financial advisor or tax planning service provider who can help you find the best strategy and actions for your unique needs and goals. 

February 11th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

When it comes to being healthy, you might feel that this is more important than your financial situation. That may well be true, but you probably also want to make sure that you are able to keep your finances in check, and there are lots of ways you should be able to make sure of that. In this post, we are going to see some of the ways you can hope to save money on healthcare in 2026, so that you can be healthy and also financially savvy at the same time. As it turns out, they go together quite well.

Get The Right Health Insurance

Understanding your health insurance is the first step. A plan is not just something you select once a year; it is a tool for controlling costs. It’s worth looking at the difference between AXA vs BUPA health insurance to begin with. Knowing the difference between your premium, deductible, copays, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum allows you to make informed decisions too. A plan with a higher monthly premium may end up saving you money in the long term if it lowers the cost of frequent visits or prescriptions.

Focus On Preventative Care

Preventive care has become a cornerstone of cost-saving strategies. Many health plans cover annual check-ups, vaccinations, cancer screenings, and counseling services at no extra cost when using in-network providers. These services allow for early detection of potential health issues, often avoiding more expensive treatments later on. Engaging in preventive care is not just about health – it is about financial foresight. If you can remember that, you’ll find your health and your financial health both benefit.

Keep Prescription Costs Down

Prescription costs are another major factor. Comparing prices across pharmacies, using generic medications, exploring discount programs, and consulting your provider about less expensive alternatives can substantially reduce expenses. Many insurance plans and employers now offer home delivery services for medications, which can also save money and time. This is going to help you ensure you keep your money in check without harming your health.

Watch Medical Bills Carefully

Reviewing medical bills carefully can uncover mistakes that save substantial amounts. Requesting an itemized statement and verifying charges against services received allows you to challenge inaccuracies. Many healthcare providers are willing to adjust bills when errors are identified, and negotiation is often possible for larger expenses. Choosing the right care setting can also make a significant difference. Urgent care centers and retail clinics typically cost less than emergency departments for non-life-threatening issues. Checking whether a facility is in-network helps reduce your share of the costs, ensuring you pay only what is necessary for the care you receive.

Those are just some of the best ways to ensure that you save money on healthcare this year, and they are all important to bear in mind.

February 10th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

February 10th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Buying a house is an exciting milestone, but it’s easy to overlook the extra costs involved in the process. While many people focus on the property’s purchase price, numerous additional expenses can quickly add up, making the overall cost much higher than expected. Understanding these costs before you start can help you budget more effectively and avoid surprises. Let’s break down the key costs you’ll need to consider when buying a home.

Legal and Professional Fees

When buying a house, you’ll need a solicitor or conveyancer to manage the legal side of the transaction. These professionals ensure the contract is in order, help with paperwork, and ensure the property is legally transferred into your name. Legal fees can range from £500 to £2,000, depending on the complexity of the sale.

If you’re buying in a busy market or a high-demand area like London, working with experienced conveyancing solicitors in London is a smart idea – they’ll offer expert advice and ensure a smooth process. Additionally, you may need to pay for a property survey, which can cost between £300 and £1,500, depending on how thorough the inspection is.

Property Taxes and Statutory Charges

You’ll need to pay a tax on the property’s purchase price; this is called Stamp Duty. The rate varies depending on the price of the house, with higher rates for more expensive properties. For example, if you’re buying a home in England worth £300,000, you could pay 5% Stamp Duty, which equals £15,000.

Other statutory charges include the cost of registering the property with the Land Registry (usually £150 to £300) and, if you’re buying a leasehold property, additional charges like ground rent and service fees. These costs are often ongoing, so it’s important to consider them when budgeting.

Other Moving and Ongoing Costs

Once the sale is complete, you’ll need to hire a removals company, which can cost between £300 and £1,500, depending on how far you’re moving and how much you need to move. Once you’ve settled in, there are ongoing costs such as council tax, home insurance, utility bills, and maintenance fees. If your new house requires repairs or improvements, it’s a good idea to set aside a budget for that as well.

Plan for a Smooth Home Buying Experience

Buying a house is a significant investment, but it’s not just the price tag that you need to prepare for. The hidden costs can quickly add up and catch you off guard if you don’t do your research. By understanding the full scope of expenses from the beginning, you can budget more effectively and ensure that the process is as smooth as possible. Keep these costs in mind, plan accordingly, and you’ll be able to enjoy your new home without the burden of surprise.

February 4th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Selling a home is no easy task. Fortunately, you’re not expected to do it all yourself. While you can save money through DIY marketing or by hiring a van to move your possessions, it’s often much more practical to hire professionals who have all the right resources and experience. But just who should you hire? Below are 5 professionals that are worth teaming up with when putting your home on the market. 

Estate agents

Estate agents can help you to find buyers by helping you with all the advertising. This could include taking photos of your property, creating online listings and potentially advertising properties within their store window (if it’s a high street estate agent). Estate agents can also give you a more accurate valuation, as well as arranging and hosting viewings on your behalf. Research shows that using the right estate agent can boost viewings by 48% and offers by 68%. However, you will have to pay the agent commission if they help you get a sale.

Home stagers

Home stagers are professionals who can help make your property look more attractive by depersonalizing it and decluttering it, as well as adding new temporary furniture and art. Staged homes tend to attract more offers and can often be advertised at a higher price. Some home stagers are able to provide storage units for your possessions during the sale process. Just make sure to compare costs – spend too much on staging and it won’t be worth the added value. 

Conveyancers

Hiring a conveyancing solicitor is a must. These legal professionals handle all the paperwork – including drafting contracts of sale, supplying title documents, co-ordinating with buyer representatives and making sure legal transfer of ownership is carried out smoothly. Most people do not have the knowledge and resources to carry out this paperwork themselves, and mistakes could be very costly, so you need a seasoned pro. 

Movers

Moving out all of your possessions from your home could be very labour intensive. You need to make sure fragile items aren’t broken and that heavy items are carried correctly to avoid injury. Unless you have a lorry at your disposal, you could also have to make several trips back and forth between your old home and new home. Professional movers can make everything a lot easier by doing all the carrying and lifting for you, while also supplying a lorry and driving it to and from your old home. You may also be able to find movers that supply packaging such as boxes and tape. 

Cleaners

It’s courteous to clean your property before the new owner moves in. You may have the time to do this yourself, however hiring a cleaning company could still be more convenient. Cleaning could be something you do during the staging process so that the property is more attractive for photos and viewings. Some companies may be able to carry out services like carpet cleaning – helping to remove stubborn stains from flooring. Take your time to compare prices of cleaning services in your local area. 

February 3rd, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

UK business owner confidence has dropped to a three-year low, continuing to fall further each quarter, according to a survey In this climate, selecting the right location is crucial for entrepreneurs. So, where in the UK offers the best opportunities for business growth?

To find out, The Co-operative Bank has created a Business Growth Index, ranking 30 major UK cities based on key factors such as the number of high growth enterprises, five-year business survival rates, job openings, salary growth, unemployment rates and energy costs.

Leeds is the UK’s best city for business growth, with a five-year business survival rate of 38.5%

Leeds tops the list, offering a robust environment for business growth. The city recorded an impressive 205 high-growth enterprises in most recent data, the highest in the region, and currently has around 20,000 new job openings (4,510 per 100,000 people), indicating workforce demand and strong economic activity.

With a fairly low unemployment rate of just 3.8%, competitive energy costs at 23.86p per kWh, and ample room for growth, Leeds is emerging as a prime destination for business growth in the UK.

Edinburgh takes second place, with the lowest unemployment rate of 2.6%, the highest salary growth at 9.7%, and a 38.6% business survival rate. The Scottish capital also has 13,093 new job openings, offering an abundance of opportunities for talent, and boasts competitive energy costs at 24.31p per kWh.

Sheffield follows in third with an impressive 44.6% five-year business survival rate. Yorkshire, its region, also has competitive energy prices at 23.86p per kWh and 7.3% salary growth, appealing to entrepreneurs seeking stability and growth.

Lisa Galley, Head of Business Banking Products, said:

“With the Budget now delivered, entrepreneurs in places like Liverpool and Birmingham – where it remains more challenging for new businesses to flourish – will be reflecting on how it will impact them. While some measures, like a permanent reduction in business rates across the retail, leisure, and hospitality sectors, will offer some welcome relief. However, the Budget also brought with it some challenging updates, including the increase to the national minimum wage which will inevitably have a direct impact on payroll costs.

“Many business owners will now be assessing how the changes balance out in practice, particularly in regions needing a boost to their growth and competitiveness.”

For more insights on the best cities for business growth and additional ways to help scale your business, explore the full research here.