October 8th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Many people decide to get involved in franchise businesses as they think that it automatically puts them on the fast-track to success. While it is true that the core principles of the business have already been laid out for you, there are still plenty of common mistakes that need to be avoided. The risks of starting a franchise business are just as real as the risks of starting a regular one. With this in mind, here are a few common mistakes that franchisees make and the ways in which you can sidestep them. 

Underestimating the Costs 

When many people look at a franchise opportunity, they automatically look at the franchise fee and don’t look beyond it. However, there are many other costs involved in a business of this variety that you need to be aware of. There are plenty of other overheads that you need to take into account. When you are working out your sums initially, it is always better to overestimate rather than underestimate. It is much better to be pleasantly surprised rather than crushingly disappointed! 

Insufficient Research 

A lot of potential franchisees fall into the trap of not doing enough research as they think that this has already been taken care of by the parent company. However, you shouldn’t just take all your information from the website of the franchising company. Instead, you should seek to find out about the experiences of the people who have actually been there and done it. You may be able to find some accounts online and connect with people via social media or forum sites. If possible, you should aim to speak to people face to face and even pay a visit to one or two branches. This way, you can get a much clearer picture of how everything is run. Not only this, but you can also ask all the questions that you would like along the way. 

Expecting to Have Complete Control 

If you want to run a business in which you have complete control, the best course of action is to open an original company. A degree of control is always going to be inevitably relinquished to the parent company. The franchise model will be set in stone, and there is a clear roadmap that you will have to follow. This is the price that you will naturally find yourself paying for a business model in which the risks have been brought down to the minimum. If you fail to follow some of the clear instructions that have been set out for you by the parent company, this will mean that you invalidate your legal agreement. As you would expect, this can end up getting you into all sorts of hot water. If you are willing to stick to the tried and tested formula, this may well be the type of business for you.

Not Fully Understanding the Terms and Conditions

When you go far enough along the route of launching a franchise, you will also receive a document that outlines all of your terms and conditions, as well as your legal responsibilities. Unless you have a legal mind, it is worth having a solicitor look over the document for you. This way, you will have a much clearer picture of what you are letting yourself in for. There are legal specialists available that specifically deal in the franchising field. While they may seem like a high initial expenditure that you have to bear, they can end up saving you a hefty sum of money in the long run, as well as plenty of legal headaches in trying to work out everything yourself.

Failing to Learn the Basics First 

Anyone who runs a business is a driven individual, and this often means a high level of impatience as well. However, a lot of people think that because the business model is already set out, they can start with all guns blazing. In truth, you should focus on doing the basics right first. After this, you can then grow the business further and even acquire more outlets. 

There are plenty of opportunities in starting a franchise business. However, there are also a lot of mistakes that you can make along the way as well, and it is worth knowing about all of them. By avoiding these common traps, you make it much more likely that you are going to achieve the type of success that you are looking for.

October 6th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

A new survey conducted by Will Aid, the national Will-writing campaign, has revealed an alarming gap in public understanding about inheritance laws affecting cohabiting couples.

The survey found that 68% of cohabitees were unaware of the rules of intestacy and what happens to their estate if they die without a Will.

This lack of awareness could have devastating consequences for many families across the UK, as cohabiting couples—regardless of how long they have lived together or whether they have children—are not automatically entitled to inherit from one another if one partner dies without leaving a Will.

Key findings from the poll, include:

• 25% mistakenly believe their estate would automatically pass to their partner
• 20% admitted they were unsure what would happen
• 17% said they had never even thought about the issue
• 7% thought their estate would go to close friends

The Rules of Intestacy dictate how a person’s estate is distributed when they die without a Will.

These rules prioritise spouses, civil partners, and blood relatives, often leaving cohabiting partners with no legal right to inherit anything. This could leave surviving partners facing significant financial hardship, particularly in cases where they are dependent on the deceased’s income or home.

Trusha Velji, solicitor at Touch Solicitors said: “Many people assume that after living together for a period of time, they automatically become common law husband and wife, but this is not the case. The concept of ‘common law marriage’ ceased to exist a very long time ago.

“If you are cohabiting as a couple, the law does not recognise you as common law spouses, even if you have children together and have lived together for many years.

“Therefore, if you do not have a Will, the Rules of Intestacy will apply, and your partner will be completely disregarded.”

The annual Will Aid campaign sees solicitors across the UK volunteering their time to write Wills throughout November, so it is an ideal time for people who are cohabiting to get their wishes professionally drafted in a legal document, which will help to protect their loved ones in the future.

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid Campaign Director, said: “Will Aid is the perfect opportunity for unmarried and cohabiting partners to get a professionally written Will in place.

“Without a Will, surviving partners may not be automatically entitled to inherit, leaving them in a vulnerable position – and it’s particularly worrying that so many people aren’t aware of this, and don’t fully understand the Rules of Intestacy.

“By participating in Will Aid, couples can ensure their wishes are clearly documented, giving both partners peace of mind that their loved one will be provided for in the event of their death.”

Will Aid is a partnership between the legal profession and eight of the UK’s best-loved charities.

The initiative, which has been running for more than 35 years, sees participating solicitors waive their fee for writing basic Wills every November.

Instead, they invite clients to make a voluntary upfront donation to Will Aid – the suggested amounts are £120 for a single basic Will and £200 for a pair of basic ‘mirror’ Wills.

Appointments are available now, and you can sign up by visiting www.willaid.org.uk

Will Aid is encouraging people to use its upcoming campaign month to write or update their Wills with a participating solicitor, while also supporting UK charities including Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, SCIAF (Scotland), Trócaire (Northern Ireland), and – new for this year – Shelter and Crisis.

For more information on Will Aid and how to get involved visit www.willaid.org.uk

October 6th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Purchasing a vehicle is one of life’s significant financial commitments, yet few people can afford to pay the full price upfront. Car finance gives you a practical solution, allowing buyers to spread the cost over manageable monthly payments whilst using the vehicle immediately.

1. What is Car Finance, and Why Use It?

Car finance refers to borrowing money to purchase or use a vehicle, with various arrangements available depending on whether you want eventual ownership or simply access to transport. The fundamental distinction is between secured and unsecured loans. Secured finance uses the vehicle itself as collateral, meaning lenders can repossess it if you default on payments. Unsecured personal loans don’t carry this risk but typically need better credit scores and may charge higher interest rates. According to Statista, millions of cars were bought using financing instruments in the UK in the twelve months to May 2024, just to show how essential these arrangements have become for British motorists.

1. Common Types of Car Loans and Finance Arrangements

Hire Purchase (HP) involves paying a deposit followed by fixed monthly instalments covering the vehicle’s full value plus interest. Once you’ve completed all payments and paid a small transfer fee, ownership transfers to you. Personal Contract Purchase (PCP), Britain’s most popular option, works differently. For instance, you pay a deposit and lower monthly payments covering only the vehicle’s depreciation. At the term’s end, you choose whether to return the car, pay a large balloon payment to keep it, or trade it towards another vehicle. Personal loans from banks or building societies give you immediate ownership and more negotiating power with dealers since you’re essentially a cash buyer, though monthly payments tend to be higher than PCP. Personal Contract Hire (leasing) means you never own the vehicle but simply rent it long-term, often with servicing and maintenance included. Each option suits different circumstances and ownership intentions.

1. Risks, Fees and Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Car finance carries numerous potential pitfalls beyond the headline APR. Variable interest rates can increase your payments unexpectedly, whilst PCP and leasing agreements often include strict mileage limits. For example, exceeding these triggers substantial penalty charges. Condition requirements mean you could face additional fees for excessive wear and tear when returning leased or PCP vehicles. Early repayment charges penalise those wanting to clear their loan ahead of schedule, and missed payments damage your credit score whilst risking repossession. The ongoing motor finance commission scandal has exposed widespread industry malpractice. The FCA confirmed in August 2025 it would consult on an industry-wide compensation scheme following Court of Appeal rulings that dealers receiving undisclosed commissions from lenders was unlawful. This scandal could result in billions in compensation for customers who unknowingly overpaid between 2007 and 2021.

1. Choosing the Right Loan for Your Situation

Choosing appropriate car finance needs an honest assessment of your circumstances. Credit history influences available options and rates, such that those with excellent credit access the lowest APRs and widest choice, whilst those with impaired credit face higher costs or limited options. If you have a weaker credit record, you might search for bad credit car finance deals, though you’ll need to compare the higher interest rates or stricter conditions carefully. Consider your intended ownership period, like, if you change vehicles every few years, PCP’s flexibility suits you, but HP makes more sense for long-term keepers. Driving habits are important as well; high-mileage drivers should avoid PCP’s restrictive limits. Available deposit funds affect affordability, like larger deposits reduce borrowing and improve rates. Always compare total amounts repayable instead of focusing solely on monthly payments and scrutinise all fees and charges before committing.

Understanding car finance options empowers you to make informed decisions that match your financial circumstances and motoring needs, potentially saving thousands over your loan term.

October 1st, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

With the new university term starting this month, money stress among young adults is once again in the spotlight. In fact, 72% of students report feeling hopeless about their financial situation, and Aqua’s survey of 500 18-24-year-olds reveals the knowledge gaps and misconceptions that make financial management more challenging.

Key Findings

• More than 1 in 5 (21%) 18-24-year-olds wish they had learned how to invest sooner

• Nearly 1 in 5 (19.2%) 18-24-year-olds want more guidance on building an effective budget

• 18.6% of 18-24-year-olds say they wish they had known more about the significance of a credit score before reaching adulthood

Other key findings from the data:

• 18-24-year-olds are more likely to turn to TikTok (22.2%) than to their university (15.8%) for financial guidance

• Nearly a third of 18-24-year-olds (30.3%) say they would rely on friends and family above any professional or institutional source

• 20% of 18-24-year-olds  explicitly distrust schools and universities for financial advice, highlighting a significant credibility gap

Sharvan Selvam, Commercial Director at Aqua, shares insights into the findings: “These results show that many young people feel underprepared when it comes to managing their money, especially around credit and budgeting. It’s worrying to see such high levels of stress around finances at such a formative stage in life, and it highlights the need for more practical, accessible guidance.

“There are a few simple steps that can help students feel more in control.

1. First, for activities such as entertainment or shopping, it’s recommended that you set a monthly budget and determine which items fall within it. Before buying anything you don’t really need, give yourself time to think about it to ensure it’s something you truly need or want , rather than impulse buying.

2. A budgeting app can be a great way to track recurring charges and identify any hidden fees, allowing you to cancel services you’re not using. These small changes can help you cut back on unnecessary spending.

3. It’s also important to understand how everyday habits impact your credit score, things like paying bills on time, keeping balances low, and not applying for too much credit at once. A strong credit score not only helps with future borrowing but can also make essentials like renting a flat or getting a phone contract much easier.

4. Set automatic payments for your regular bills, but pay for subscriptions manually so you can review their usage.

5. Finally, if money worries are causing stress, don’t keep them to yourself. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or even a professional adviser can help you see things more clearly and feel less isolated. Often, just sharing concerns is the first step to finding a practical solution.”

October 1st, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | Press Releases

October 1st, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

American Express has brought back its popular series of limited-time sign-up offers, including one of the largest points offers on the Gold Card. Eligible new Gold Cardmembers can earn 40,000 bonus Membership Rewards^® points, while new Platinum Cardmembers can earn 80,000 points when they meet required spend thresholds.

Golden opportunity

Eligible new Gold Cardmembers can now earn 40,000 Membership Rewards^® points when they successfully apply and are approved by 14 October 2025 and spend £5,000 in their first six months. The offer is double the usual maximum 20,000 points. 40,000 Membership Rewards^® points can be redeemed as £180*to offset purchases made on the Card.

The American Express^® Preferred Reward Gold Card is free for the first year and comes with a range of benefits including four Priority Pass lounge visits each year, two £5 Deliveroo statement credits per month, and enhanced points-earning opportunities, including 3x points for every £1 spent on American Express^® Travel.

A Platinum Reward

Eligible new Platinum Cardmembers can receive 80,000 bonus Membership Rewards^® points, when they successfully apply for the Card and spend £10,000 in their first six months. The offer is higher than the usual maximum of 50,000 points. 80,000 Membership Rewards^® points can be redeemed as £360* to offset purchases made on the Card.

As well as earning Membership Rewards^® points, Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy a £400 Global Dining Credit to spend at selected restaurants, as well exclusive hotel benefits with Fine Hotels & Resorts such as guaranteed 4pm late check-out. Additional benefits include travel insurance for the Cardmember and their family and complementary access to over 1,550 airport lounges around the world. The Platinum Card^® has an annual fee of £650, with the benefits valued at more than £3,000.

Invite A Friend enhanced offer

In addition to these new sign-up offers, American Express is also enhancing the Invite a Friend referral programme, available until 14 October 2025.

Gold Cardmembers who successfully refer a friend are eligible to receive 14,000 Membership Rewards points, up from 9,000. The referred friend will receive 45,000 points, compared with the 22,000 points they would normally receive, when they spend £5,000 in their first six months after being approved for the Gold Card.

Current Platinum Cardmembers who successfully refer a friend are eligible to receive 18,000 Membership Rewards points, up from 12,000, while the referred friend will receive 100,000 points, and is nearly double the usual 55,000 points on offer, if they spend £10,000 in the first six months after being approved for the Platinum Card^®. 100,000 Membership Rewards^® points can be redeemed as £450* to offset purchases made on the Card.

Cardmembers simply need to follow the instructions in the Amex ^® App or their Online Account to find their referral link. The friend must be approved for the relevant Card before the Cardmember receives their points, and existing Cardmembers can earn a maximum of 90,000 bonus points from referrals each year.

Business Card sign-up offers

Cardmembers applying for American Express® Business Platinum and Gold Cards will, from today, also have the ability to earn additional Membership Rewards® points.

Until 14 October 2025, applicants approved for a Business Gold Card can earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points when they spend £6,000 in the first three months. Those approved for a Business Platinum Card can earn up to 120,000 Membership Rewards points when they spend £12,000 in the first three months.

Earning and redeeming rewards

Amex is now accepted in more places than ever before including every major supermarket chain, leading high street brands and hundreds of thousands of small businesses, meaning there are even more ways to earn rewards on everyday spending.

Membership Rewards points can be redeemed in a variety of ways. For example, 40,000 points can be redeemed as £180* to offset purchases made on the card. Points can also be redeemed for gift vouchers across a wide selection of shopping, travel and lifestyle partners. You can also use them to shop online, transfer to airline loyalty programmes or redeem against flights and hotels with Amex Travel. To explore the full range of rewards, Cardmembers can visit Membership Rewards ^® online or head to the Amex^® App.

Dave Edwards, Vice President, American Express, stated: “We are excited to announce the launch of our limited-time offers for Gold and Platinum Cards, making our products even more rewarding for our Cardmembers. These offers will give new and existing Cardmembers the chance to earn increased Membership Rewards^® points that can be used in a variety of ways including on travel, dining and shopping.”

October 1st, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Warehouse organization is one of the most overlooked but vital elements of a successful supply chain. Whether you run a large distribution center or you have a much smaller operation, a tidy and well structured warehouse directly impacts productivity, safety and profitability. Poor organization means wasted time, misplaced inventory and increased operational costs. These are problems that no business can afford to ignore.

An effective solution that many businesses use to enhance organization is incorporating Algeco storage containers into their warehouse setup. These secure and durable units provide flexible storage options for excess inventory, seasonal stock, tools and equipment. They are especially useful during warehouse reconfigurations, peak trading periods, or when temporary extra space is necessary. Containers alone won’t fix an inefficiency in your warehouse though, so here are five more options to help you to keep your space running smoothly.

1. Implement a clear layout. An organised warehouse starts with a smart layout used to find zones for receiving, storage, picking, packing and shipping. Keep high demand items close to shipping areas and separate hazardous or sensitive materials to prevent contamination or safety hazards. A clear, logical layout reduces time spent searching for items and streamlines workflow from start to finish.
2. Label everything clearly. Often underutilised labelling as a game changer for warehouse efficiency. Investing in clear, durable labels for shelf bins and pallets is important, and you can use barcodes or QR codes for easy digital tracking and fast scanning. Labelling improves inventory accuracy while also helping new staff and temporary workers to navigate the space with minimal training.
3. Complete regular audits. Warehouses are not static environments. Stock levels fluctuate, product lines change, and operations grow. Schedule regular audits to review inventory levels, shelf usage, and traffic flow.Identify slow moving items and consider whether they can be relocated, discounted or stored in offsite containers like those from Algeco. Continuous improvement ensures that your layout evolves with your business needs.
4. Invest in the right storage solutions. Every product category has its own storage needs. Pilot racking, bin shelving, mezzanine floors, and mobile units also have different purposes. Pick a solution that matches your inventory type and volume. For bulky or irregular items, external storage containers can be an ideal way to free up internal space while keeping assets secure and accessible.
5. Train and empower your staff. Your warehouse is only as efficient as the people running it. Providing ongoing training on best practices and inventory, handling safety protocols and digital systems is important. Encourage feedback from the floor. Your staff will often spot inefficiencies that you may have overlooked.Empowered employees are more likely to maintain a clean and orderly workspace.

Keeping your warehouse organised isn’t just about aesthetics, but about improving operational efficiency, ensuring safety and supporting growth. While storage containers are a great idea, lasting improvement comes from a combination of smart systems and staff engagement.

September 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

When you’re driving along and a new, unwelcome noise starts, or a warning light flashes on the dashboard, your heart sinks. You immediately think about the unbudgeted expense heading your way at a time when every pound is accounted for.

By adopting a few proactive measures, you can try to limit the impact of these car shocks and decrease the risk of a potential crisis.

1. Reevaluate your car insurance regularly.

It’s easy to allow your car insurance to auto-renew each year out of convenience, assuming your loyalty will be rewarded. Unfortunately, this is not always true. The “loyalty penalty” can cost you hundreds of pounds. Where you could be negotiating or researching better policies, you settle for whatever is quick and easy.

You can browse comparison websites and get quotes from various insurers, which could effectively lead to substantial savings.

2. Maintain a clean driving record.

Your driving history is a key factor insurers use to calculate your premium. Penalty points for offences like speeding or using a mobile phone at the wheel will lead to a noticeable increase in your insurance costs for several years. Conversely, each year you drive without making a claim builds your No Claims Discount (NCD).

In the long term, a clean slate can significantly reduce your motoring expenses.

3. Regular vehicle maintenance

Small car problems, if left unattended, often escalate into major, expensive failures. For instance, replacing a worn timing belt at the recommended interval might cost a few hundred pounds, but if it snaps, it can cause catastrophic engine damage, costing thousands to repair.

You don’t need to be a mechanic to perform these basic checks. Learning how to check your oil, coolant, and windscreen wash levels, and regularly monitoring your tyre pressures, is a useful skill to have that can save you money in the long run.

4. Be cautious with modifications

Personalising your car can be appealing, but you should proceed with caution.

Car modifications like fitting new alloy wheels or remapping the engine for more power can have a damaging impact. Firstly, you must declare all changes to your insurer. Failure to do so could invalidate your policy, meaning they could refuse to pay out in the event of a claim.

Secondly, modifications often lead to higher insurance premiums, as they can make the car more attractive to thieves or increase its performance and risk profile.

5. Keep an emergency car fund

Even with the best preparation, unexpected costs can still arise. A failed MOT or the need for four new tyres can all result in a bill running to several hundred pounds. Rather than relying on a high-interest credit card or a loan, the best defence is a dedicated emergency fund. You can create this by setting up a standing order to a separate savings account, putting away a small, manageable amount each month. Even £25 a month soon builds up. Having this financial buffer means that when an unexpected bill does land, you can pay for it without stress or debt. It turns a financial emergency into a simple transaction, giving you invaluable peace of mind.

September 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Finding the perfect place to buy your first home is no easy task. You want somewhere affordable, but you also need access to your work, some sort of social life, and a bit of peace of mind for the future.

And, of course, you don’t want to end up in a neighbourhood that’s likely to leave you wishing you’d put off buying for another year.

So, let’s cut to the chase and talk about four locations that are ready to tick all the right boxes.

Manchester – a city choice with perks

This is a city that’s hard to ignore for first-time buyers. The buzz, the culture, the sheer variety of properties on offer – all make it a top contender for first-timers.

Whether you’re looking for a sleek flat in the city centre or a cosy terrace in one of its up-and-coming suburbs, you’ve got options. Plus, the city’s constantly growing, which means more opportunities down the line.

Don’t forget the excellent transport links to the rest of the UK – handy for when you want to head out of town, but even better for keeping your commute to a minimum.

The average first-time buyer property in Manchester is around £35,000 below the British average. So, what are you waiting for?

Knowsley, Merseyside – exceptional value with rising demand

If you’re looking for fantastic value and a location that’s steadily gaining popularity, Knowsley could be your jackpot. Tucked on the outskirts of Liverpool, this area gives you space to breathe, without the price tag that often comes with being closer to the city.

With average house prices climbing year on year, but still at a very affordable £185,000 as of June 2025, Knowsley offers first-time buyers an excellent entry point to the property market.

It’s not just about the price, though. The area is seeing increasing demand, with improved transport links and new developments popping up all over. This makes it a great place to invest now, with the potential for future growth.

Nuneaton, Warwickshire – modern homes in the heart of the Midlands

You might be thinking, where? But not for long. Nuneaton is an absolute gem for first-time buyers who want a first home without breaking the bank.

Located in the heart of the Midlands, this area is perfect for those who want a peaceful pace of life, while staying well-connected to larger cities like Birmingham and Leicester.

The real draw here, though, is the selection of stunning new build homes in Nuneaton. With excellent local amenities, a strong community feel, and the possibility of getting a bit more space for your budget, this market town is an excellent spot to consider.

Leek, Staffordshire – charm, nature and an attractive market town lifestyle

Set near the Peak District, this charming market town offers a slower, more relaxed lifestyle without losing out on modern conveniences.

There’s plenty of outdoor space for those weekend walks in the countryside. Plus, Leek has great local shops, pubs and restaurants, all contributing to its thriving, close-knit community.

If you’re looking to settle somewhere that combines rural charm with a vibrant market town atmosphere, Leek might be just the place for you.

September 30th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Looking to get the most out of your money? Wealth management is a strategic approach to financial management that helps you to achieve your long-term goals and build wealth for the future, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is vital that you develop a tailored approach based on your circumstances and financial goals. Read on to find out more.

Start with Clear Goals: What Do You Want Your Money to Do?

Before developing a wealth management plan, you first need to establish your goals. Before making any big financial decisions, ask yourself: What do I want my wealth to achieve? Whether it is securing your retirement, growing assets for the next generation, or leaving a charitable legacy, your strategy should be built around your personal priorities. Clear goals help you and your adviser design a plan that works for you.

Expect More from Modern Wealth Management

Wealth management today is not just about numbers on a statement. You should expect personalised advice based on your goals and circumstances, transparent reporting, digital tools for real-time insights, and a strong focus on sustainable (ESG) investing. Many wealth management firms now combine human expertise with smart technology, so you get the best of both worlds – tailored strategies and convenient access.

Understand What’s Happening in the UK Wealth Market

Knowledge is power when it comes to investing, and the financial landscape is changing. New tax rules in the UK are leading some wealthy families and individuals to move assets or even leave the UK altogether. At the same time, big names like Barclays are investing heavily to strengthen their wealth services, which could mean better options for you as a client. Knowing these trends can help you make smarter decisions about where and how to manage your money.

Make Your Money Work Harder: Diversify, Protect, & Plan Ahead

To get the most out of your wealth, think beyond traditional shares and property. Diversifying into alternative assets, using tax-efficient structures, and planning your estate now will give you more flexibility and help protect your family’s future. Younger investors are already demanding inflation-protected assets and more control over their portfolios, so this is something you may want to consider, too. During periods of economic uncertainty such as this, it is vital that you are smart and plan ahead when it comes to wealth management.

The advice in this post should help you get the most out of your money and build towards long-term wealth. It can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to wealth management, especially with a lot of doom and gloom surrounding the UK and global economy in 2025. By establishing your goals, getting expert wealth management advice, understanding the UK wealth market, and planning ahead, you can develop a financial plan that will help you achieve your goals.