December 5th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

A well-optimized point of sale system has become one of the most important tools in modern retail. It shapes the pace of customer service, the accuracy of your inventory, the flow of your staff’s day and even the overall customer experience. When it works smoothly, everything else in the store feels easier. When it slows down, the entire operation feels stuck. That’s why taking time to optimize your POS is a direct investment in building a more successful business.

The challenge for many retailers is knowing where to begin. With so many moving parts, it’s not always obvious which areas need fine-tuning. But once you understand how a POS system supports your sales, inventory and customer needs, optimization becomes much more straightforward.

Understand your system and choose the right POS features

Optimization starts with understanding the structure of your tools. Retailers often don’t realise just how many functions their POS already supports, especially when it comes to inventory tracking, speed of checkout and staff usage. If your system feels slow or inconsistent, it may be due to how it’s configured rather than the technology itself. Taking the time to explore your POS settings, reporting functions and built-in automation can lead to improvements that make a noticeable impact on daily operations.

It also helps to look at the different types of retail POS systems available on the market. Some are built for high-volume environments, others for mobile sales, and some focus heavily on inventory or customer data. Even if you’re not planning to switch systems, understanding these categories gives you clarity about the features your current setup should already be supporting. When your POS matches your store’s workflow, optimization becomes much easier to build on.

Streamline checkout to improve speed and customer experience

Checkout speed directly affects customer satisfaction, and even small delays can shape how shoppers feel about your store. One of the easiest ways to optimize your POS is to simplify the steps your staff take during every sale. Shorter workflows, fewer button presses and clearly labelled product categories reduce wait times and keep lines moving faster.

Updating or expanding your accepted payment methods can also make checkout smoother as well. Customers appreciate flexibility, and offering additional options such as contactless, digital wallets or buy-now-pay-later services can speed up transactions. A faster checkout process not only improves the customer experience but also allows staff to focus more on engagement rather than troubleshooting payment issues.

Use POS insights to strengthen your daily operations

The most powerful part of any point of sale system is the data behind it. Sales trends, inventory performance and peak shopping times all help you refine your decision-making. Instead of guessing what needs to be reordered or which products are slowing down, your POS can provide you with accurate, real-time information. This kind of visibility helps prevent stockouts, reduce overordering and improve the timing of staff scheduling.

When your POS system runs smoothly, it becomes more than a checkout tool. It becomes the core of smarter, faster retail operations. By understanding your system, refining checkout and using data effectively, you create a foundation that supports growth, efficiency and a better customer experience.Optimizing your POS isn’t complicated. With the right setup, clear processes and smart use of data, your system can become one of the strongest advantages your retail store has.

Optimizing your POS isn’t complicated. With the right setup, clear processes and smart use of data, your system can become one of the strongest advantages your retail store has.

November 28th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

UK households could be wasting £625.3 million on their broadband bills every year by paying for speeds they don’t need, according to estimates from a new study.*

The research found that over a quarter (28%)** of broadband users – roughly 7.5 million households nationwide – have faster packages than they actually need.***

The research from Go.Compare broadband asked UK residents how they use their broadband and which speeds they’re paying for. According to the comparison site, many stated that they were paying for faster speeds than they needed, based on their usage requirements – meaning they could be wasting money.

Go.Compare’s broadband experts are now urging customers to consider what they use their Wi-Fi for and to check which speeds they actually need, as switching to a slower package could save a significant amount of money, without affecting your online activities.

So, how much money could UK households save? Go.Compare estimates that those overpaying are spending £6.93 more per month on average than they need to – which adds up to £83.16 annually.* Nationwide, this equates to a massive £52.1 million, meaning a fortune is being lost on broadband bills across the UK and there is a huge opportunity for households to save money.

Some could make an even larger saving – the research found that two thirds (64%) of those paying for speeds over 100Mbps don’t need broadband as fast as this.** These households could be overpaying by the most, spending an average of £9.94 more per month than needed.*

Additionally, over a third (35%) of people admitted that they don’t know what speeds they’re paying for, meaning many could be paying for a broadband package that doesn’t suit their needs.**

Catherine Hiley, spokesperson at Go.Compare broadband, commented: “When choosing which broadband package to buy, it can be tempting just to go for the fastest speeds. However, there’s no need to fork out for the top speeds if you only use your internet for basic activities.

“For example, if you just use your internet to browse your emails and watch low-resolution videos from time to time, speeds around 30 Mbps might suffice. On the contrary, if you have a house full of people who are streaming 4k videos, gaming online and working from home at the same time, you’ll probably need speeds in excess of 100 Mbps.

“If you’re not sure what speeds you need, use our free speed recommendation tool. Just tell us how many devices your household uses and what type of devices they are and we’ll give you an instant estimate.

“Remember that there are other factors to consider aside from speed and price, too. Many broadband packages include extra perks like streaming deals and free gifts, so be sure to take these into account to make sure you’re getting the best value for money.”

To find out more about broadband speeds and how to find the right package, visit: https://www.gocompare.com/broadband/what-broadband-speed-do-i-need/.

November 27th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Getting your first car without a credit history can feel like being on a roundabout with no clear exit. You may need your car for work, study, or for everyday errands, but lenders see no record to judge how reliable you are. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get behind the wheel. By approaching the process strategically, you can access suitable finance and manage your budget safely, all while establishing a credit profile that opens the door to better deals in the future. Small steps now can make a big difference to your vehicle options.

Steps to build or strengthen your credit profile

There are simple actions that should be taken before you apply for car finance to make yourself more visible to lenders. Registering on the electoral roll improves your credibility and can positively affect your credit report. Setting up regular direct debits for bills and subscriptions shows consistency in managing payments. Using a credit-builder card responsibly, keeping balances low and paying in full each month, allows you to demonstrate your ability to handle borrowing. Regularly checking your credit report for errors ensures no inaccuracies hold you back. Over time, these measures increase your chances of being approved for more affordable finance products.

Exploring car finance options for applicants with thin credit files

Even without a credit history, you can access finance through various routes. Dealer finance schemes often provide tailored options for first-time borrowers, while personal loans and guarantor loans give alternative ways to fund your vehicle. Some motoring subscription services and Pay-As-You-Go plans offer temporary access to a car without a long-term commitment. Lenders may request proof of income, a larger deposit, or extra documentation when evaluating applications. If you have no credit history, exploring bad credit car finance can help you secure a suitable loan while building a record for the future.

Considering alternatives from cheaper vehicles to short-term solutions

While you work on strengthening your credit profile, there are practical ways to get moving. Purchasing a lower-priced used car with cash removes reliance on credit, giving immediate access to transportation. Car-sharing services and subscription plans provide flexibility without a long-term commitment, allowing you to drive only when necessary. Short-term leasing options can also offer mobility while you demonstrate reliability and build a credit record. These interim solutions keep you on the road and prepare you for traditional finance once your credit history is established.

Getting a car without a credit history may feel challenging but it is achievable with a clear plan. By building your credit profile steadily before purchasing your first car, exploring various finance options for first-time borrowers, and considering short term or lower cost alternatives, you can secure the best first car for you without breaking the bank.

November 24th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

With Black Friday and Christmas shopping in full swing, millions of Brits are set to have deliveries arriving to their homes. But the home insurance experts at Go.Compare are warning homeowners about the risks of leaving valuable parcels on their doorsteps, as ONS data reveals a 20% rise in thefts from outside dwellings between March 2024 and March 2025.*

New research carried out by the price comparison website has also found that three-quarters of Brits surveyed (75%) have had problems with parcel deliveries:** nearly a quarter (24%) have had items marked as delivered but never received, and more than one in ten (11%) have had parcels left outside their home stolen.

The survey also found that parcels often go awry. Almost a third of Brits (31%) received parcels that were left out in the rain, 29% were delivered to the wrong property, almost a quarter (23%) were left in a rubbish bin and 13% were left in a bush.

Nathan Blackler, expert at Go.Compare home insurance, warns that parcels stolen from outside your home may not be covered by insurance, making it crucial to think carefully about where and when deliveries are made to avoid the risk of so-called porch-pirates.

He encourages Brits to use delivery options that require a signature, arrange for parcels to be left with a trusted neighbour, or use secure pickup points such as parcel lockers or the post office. Planning ahead can keep purchases safe and ease the pressure of the festive season.

He said: “Having gifts delivered to the house can take some stress out of the busy festive period, but it’s important to remember that you won’t always be home when items arrive. Leaving parcels in the porch – or in sight of potential thieves – not only increases the risk of theft but could also mean they aren’t covered by home insurance.

“The ONS figures highlight a sharp rise in thefts from outside homes, which is a timely reminder to check what your home contents insurance does and doesn’t cover. Some policies include protection for parcel theft, but this is usually only the case if items were taken from your property and you took reasonable steps to keep them secure.”

As well as checking your home insurance policy, Nathan also offered some practical tips to reduce the risk of doorstep parcel theft:

• Schedule deliveries carefully: Arrange for parcels to be delivered when someone is home or choose a delivery time that suits you.
• Use secure collection points: Opt for parcel lockers, collection points, or delivery to a trusted neighbour or workplace.
• Install security measures: Use doorbell cameras, CCTV, or smart door locks to monitor deliveries.
• Track your deliveries: Many courier services provide real-time tracking and notifications to reduce the time parcels spend unattended.
• Use parcel theft deterrents: Signs indicating CCTV, motion-sensor lights, or secure parcel boxes can discourage thieves.

To find out more about what home insurance covers, visit Go.Compare’s guide: https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/guide/what-does-home-insurance-cover/

November 17th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Over 13.5m UK adults are planning to cut back their Christmas spending this year as households feel the squeeze of soaring prices and stubbornly high living costs, new research from investment, protection, retirement and in-house advice specialist LV= reveals.

From spreading the cost of Christmas dinner to cutting back on gifts, families are finding new ways to cope with seasonal spending pressures while also trying to keep traditions alive. It seems budgeting may be becoming a new Christmas tradition for many UK households.

LV= research shows that 58% of adults, over 31.4 million people, say they are now budgeting for Christmas, and one in four (26%) are saving steadily throughout the year.

A quarter (25%) of people say they will spend less this year than they did last year, an increase of 3% compared to last year, continuing a steady downward trend in festive budgets driven by the cost-of-living crisis.

Parents of young children are the most prepared – the number of parents of under 10s that budget for Christmas rises significantly to four in five (80%). Consumers are taking a more thoughtful approach to Christmas spending, with many choosing to focus on financial stability rather than excess.

However, contrary to older generations, young Brits are bucking the trend and say they intend to splash out this Christmas. Almost three in ten (28%) 18 – 34 year olds plan to spend more this year, up by 7% on 2024 figures.

David Hynam, LV= Chief Executive, said:

“Consumers are clearly adapting to the new economic reality, making more intentional choices about how and when they spend. While overall our data is showing that Christmas budgets may be smaller, we are seeing pockets of optimism, particularly among younger people and families who are keen to celebrate.

“Budgeting is no longer just about cutting back, it’s about taking control, planning ahead and feeling prepared for the moments that matter most.”

LV= offers guidance on managing spend, visit the LV= Wealth & Wellbeing hub.

November 13th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

With Christmas fast approaching and Black Friday deals everywhere, it’s a busy time for shoppers.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of online sales, but a few careful habits can make all the difference during a period where scammers will look for opportunities to take advantage of shoppers.

Here, Sophie Graham, a Personal Finance Expert at Sunny, shares six straightforward ways to shop safely this season.

Six Ways to Avoid Getting Scammed This Season

Sophie Graham, a Personal Finance Expert at Sunny, says: “With Black Friday and Christmas shopping in full swing, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush, and that’s when scammers strike. Simple habits like checking links, using secure payments, and pausing before you click can keep you safe. Online shopping should feel easy and enjoyable, and a little caution goes a long way.”

1. If something feels rushed or too good to be true, take a pause

“Scammers rely on urgency to make people act before they think. If a deal feels unusually cheap or comes with a countdown timer, stop and take a breath. Genuine retailers don’t need to pressure you into a decision. A quick check of the website’s name, reviews, or contact details can prevent a lot of disappointment later. Taking thirty seconds to verify a deal could save you weeks of stress trying to recover lost money.”

2. Stick to retailers and websites you already trust

“Familiarity is one of the easiest forms of protection. Shopping directly through a retailer’s official website or app reduces the risk of ending up on a fake site designed to steal your details. It’s also worth typing the address manually instead of clicking links from ads or social media; it’s a small habit that goes a long way. The extra effort might feel inconvenient in the moment, but it’s far safer than chasing refunds from fraudulent sellers.”

3. Choose payment methods that give you backup

“Using a credit or debit card adds a valuable layer of protection if a purchase turns out to be fraudulent. Bank transfers or payment links in unsolicited messages should always raise a red flag. The goal is to make sure you have some form of recourse if things don’t go as planned. A secure payment method gives you the reassurance that you’re not alone if something goes wrong.”

4. Be cautious with delivery updates and notifications

“It’s easy to trust messages that appear to come from delivery companies, especially during the festive rush. However, texts or emails requesting small ‘redelivery fees’ are a classic trick. Go directly to the courier’s official site instead of clicking links. Legitimate firms won’t ask for payment or personal details through a message. If in doubt, contact the delivery provider using the details on their verified website before taking any action.”

5. Treat your passwords as personal investments

“Your online security depends heavily on strong, unique passwords, and yet, it’s something people often overlook. Using a password manager and enabling two-factor authentication might feel like effort at first, but it’s far less hassle than dealing with a hacked account later. Think of it as protecting your digital assets the same way you’d lock your front door. The stronger your security, the less appealing a target you become to cybercriminals.”

6. Be mindful of what you share or click on social media

“Scammers know how to make posts and adverts look polished and convincing. Whether it’s a giveaway, a flash sale or a ‘too good to miss’ promotion, take a moment before engaging. If it looks legitimate, find the offer on the retailer’s official website instead. Staying one step removed from impulsive clicks is often what keeps you safe. Remember, genuine companies won’t ask you to share personal information or make payments through social media messages.”

For more personal finance tips, visit Sunny’s website here.

November 13th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

With terms including the word ‘mortgages’ generating over half a million Google searches a month (595k) in the UK alone, it’s clear that many prospective homeowners are still confused about how mortgages work, what they’re eligible for, and how to navigate a challenging market.

As we get closer to the Autumn Budget announcement, many more people will be searching for terms around whether now is the best time to purchase a house or in the new year.

To help provide clarity, Luke Williams, Specialist Property Advisor, at Pure Property Finance, tackles the most searched mortgage questions in the UK.

`1. How much mortgage can I get? (17,000 searches a month)

“Most lenders will let you borrow around 4 to 4.5 times your annual income, however this can vary due to some underlying factors. If you have existing debts or your credit score isn’t as good as it should be for a mortgage, you may have to borrow a little less.

Other financial commitments, such as other mortgages, car loans and child maintenance costs might also have an impact, and affordability checks are much stricter today, with lenders assessing every single monthly outgoing and financial dependent, to ensure that they don’t encounter repayment problems further down the line.”

2. Are mortgage rates going down? (4,900 searches a month)

“There’s definitely some optimism that rates might soften a little bit soon, but it won’t be a dramatic drop. With inflation starting to ease ever so slightly, lenders are still pricing conservatively and are still reluctant to make any huge changes.

 The Bank of England base rate is a key driver in interest rates, we’ve started to see this come down consistently, with two members of the MPC most recently voting for a 0.5% cut. Mortgages may follow in the coming months; but won’t reach pre-pandemic levels for a long time.

3. How to get a mortgage? (3,800 searches a month)

“Getting a mortgage starts with preparation. Firstly, you’ll need to visit a broker to find out exactly who to go with for the best rates for your circumstance, especially if your mortgage is more complex; you’re self-employed, have multiple income streams or you need a more flexible approach.

Once you’ve had a Mortgage-in-Principle, you’ll then need to prove your income, show a great credit history and show proof of funds for your deposit. Your deposit should typically be no less than 10%, however, the more you’re able to pay upfront, the less interest payments you’ll end up paying over the years.”

4. What is a mortgage? (3,700 searches a month)

“A mortgage is essentially a big loan from a bank or a lender that will help you afford a home. If a house is £400,000 and you only have £50,000 to pay towards it as a deposit, then the mortgage will be for £350,000 which you’ll have to pay off over a number of years, usually 25-35 years, with interest.

The property acts as collateral, meaning that the bank or lender can repossess it if the repayments aren’t made on time.”

5. Can you get a mortgage with bad credit? (2,400 searches a month)

“You can get a mortgage with bad credit, but it’s definitely harder than if your credit score is good. Specialist lenders offer mortgages to those with poor credit or who’ve missed payments.

A major downside is that the rates can be higher than a normal mortgage and the deposit needs to be larger than 10%. A good broker can help you find the right specialist lender if you are in this circumstance, and might advise on whether it would be worth building your credit score up beforehand.”

November 11th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Sometimes we just need to get away from it all for a little bit. Whether it’s mounting pressures at work or at home, everyone deserves a mini-holiday at one time or another, just to get their head back on straight. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to square that need with the reality of our budget.

It’s still hard times for the average household in the UK, thanks to ever-lingering after-effects of a once-in-a-generation cost-of-living crisis and ongoing wage stagnation. In such times, and when emergency savings are more important than ever, it can be hard to justify even a weekend city break to decompress. But the ability to enjoy such an escape should be a non-negotiable thing – so let’s talk budgeting.

1. Planning And Travel Timing

There are many little budgeting mistakes that can be made in the planning of a holiday, but it all, ultimately, comes down to judiciousness. How judicious are you about the decisions you make at each step of your planning?

Starting with the basics, even the timing of your trip can have incredible consequences for its final cost. In the ‘on-season’ of a given country, you’ll find it much more expensive to book travel and accommodation than in the ‘off-season’ – much like travelling at off-peak times can dramatically cut costs overall. For city breaks that give you the respite you deserve, at a cost you can afford, consider timing it so your travel (air, rail or otherwise) takes place mid-week or late at night.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation is the biggest cost you’ll have to contend with besides travel to and from your target city. As such, shrewd decisions can dramatically reduce initial cost outlays. Try not to look at Airbnb, tempting as it may be; most city listings are either woefully inadequate for individual needs, or not priced competitively against hotels. Instead, use comparison sites to find hotel room deals, and shop around for independent lodging houses and hostels you might be able to contact directly.

3. Eating, Drinking & Tourist Attractions

Another mistake holidaymakers make when making their holiday is to act just like that: holidaymakers. In so doing, you open yourself up to the predatory costs of tourist-targeted food, drink and attractions. London is a fun example.

As a tourist in London, you’ll spend, cumulatively, hundreds of pounds riding the London Eye, touring the dungeons and seeing the Crown Jewels; as a local, you’ll eat breakfast at a local caff, lunch at Borough Market and spend an evening touring Dalston for cool bars. Who’s had a more ‘London’ experience, and who’s spent more money? Take this same essential mission – act like a local – and apply it to your destination. You’ll have a cheaper time, and a better one too.

November 10th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

As more UK residents look to the likes of Etsy and Vinted to make some extra cash this Christmas, tax professionals are raising the alarm.

HMRC now has visibility into online selling activity, and non-compliance could lead to in-depth investigations or large fines that exceed your earnings.

From the beginning of this year, HMRC started receiving data on sales and users for anyone who has more than 30 transactions per year, regardless of profit.

On Vinted, particularly, reporting thresholds were tightened, and users who either do 30 sales per year or exceed £1,700 of gross sales over 365 days must now have their data reported with HMRC.

Lee Murphy, Managing Director of The Accountancy Partnership, a leading accountancy firm that specialises in tax returns for Amazon and eBay,, discusses how HMRC could detect and act on your side hustle.

“HMRC uses the platform, whether this is Etsy, Vinted or even eBay, to match against each individual’s tax return.

Those who’ve exceeded an annual trading allowance of £1,000 and also fail to declare this may receive reminder letters to ensure that they get their tax return done.

While you may think this is just a scare tactic, ignoring these types of letters may lead to further full tax inquiries and criminal investigations.”

Murphy discusses whether you’re at risk of being caught out, and any next steps you need to take if you’ve got a side-hustle:

“If you are selling unwanted personal items and not making repeat trades or drop shipping, then you’re unlikely to face HMRC scrutiny.

If you do, however, earn over £1,000 from your side hustle each year, or you exceed 30 sales within one year, then you must let HMRC know about this to avoid getting any fines or being under any sort of criminal investigation.

If you’re unsure of how many items you’ve sold or how much money you’ve made so far, then it’s best to go back and find your detailed sale records. Also keep track of any expenses that’ve gone with the sales; stamps, postage materials and courier payments, as you could get some of this back when the time comes to doing your self-assessment tax form.”

To work out how much tax you should be paying for selling items online, you can check using this tax calculator here: https://www.theaccountancy.co.uk/calculators/limited-company-vs-sole-trader-calculator

November 7th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Millions of Brits could be jetting off without valid travel insurance – simply because they didn’t realise they need to declare their medical conditions.

New research from Go.Compare found that almost a third of UK adults (30%) live with a medical condition, but fewer than half of these (48%) always declare it or double check what they need to disclose before travelling. The rest admit to taking risky shortcuts: one in seven (14%) have never bought travel insurance at all, while others “can’t find their illness on insurer lists” (9%), and skip declaring conditions because they are “worried how much it will cost” (5%) or simply “didn’t know they had to” (5%).

Perhaps most worrying, a quarter (25%) wrongly believe no medical conditions need to be declared when buying travel insurance – a misunderstanding that could see them left thousands out of pocket if they fall ill abroad.

The knowledge around declaring certain conditions and treatments is especially low – despite the popularity of weight loss injections and medications in recent years, only 10% believe they need to tell their insurer about them. Additionally, only 11% of people think their insurer needs to be aware of ADHD medication, and just 8% think menopause treatments need to be declared.

Rhys Jones, Go.Compare travel insurance expert, explains: “Your travel insurer needs to be aware of any and all pre-existing conditions you may have – and this includes things like weight loss injections and ADHD.

“As well as declaring any conditions that require ongoing treatment, you must tell your insurer about recent surgeries or conditions that you have finished treatment for, as well as mental health issues and any prescription medication you’re on.”

Older travellers more savvy, young holidaymakers most at risk

Go.Compare’s latest research shows younger Brits are far less aware of which medical conditions travel insurers need to know about. Just 22% of 16–24-year-olds knew that heart conditions must be declared, compared with 55% of those aged 55+. The same pattern runs across most conditions: only 13% of 25–34-year-olds realised that recent surgery needs to be disclosed, compared with 40% of those aged 55+.

Even chronic or common conditions are widely misunderstood. While over a third (39%) of those aged 55+ said diabetes must be declared, only one in seven (14%) under-35s thought the same. Women were slightly more clued up than men with 44% of women knowing heart conditions must be reported versus 31% of men.

Rhys Jones said: “Health issues can make life a little more complicated, but don’t let that stop you from having the holiday of your dreams! You can get specialist travel insurance which covers pre-existing conditions so you can jet off with peace of mind.”

He added: “Failing to declare a condition could completely invalidate your policy. If you need medical help abroad, the bill could easily run into tens of thousands of pounds. Honesty really is the best policy when it comes to travel insurance.”

Go.Compare’s top tips for getting the right cover before you fly:

• Be honest: Always declare any long-term health condition you’ve been diagnosed with, treated for, or prescribed medication for in the last few years.
• Check for changes: If your health changes after booking, tell your insurer (even dosage changes or new prescriptions can affect your cover)
• Don’t forget mental health: Anxiety, depression and stress-related conditions count, too
• Buy early: Take out travel insurance as soon as you book; you’ll be covered if you need to cancel due to illness or hospitalisation
• Shop around: compare specialist insurers online who cover a wide range of conditions, so you don’t pay more than you need to
• Know the real cost: Standard cover averages around £3 a day, but with a declared condition it’s around £5 – roughly the cost of a takeaway coffee, and far cheaper than a hospital bill abroad**

Rhys Jones, Go.Compare’s travel insurance expert, added:

“If you’re not sure what to declare, ask your insurer. There’s no shame in checking and a quick phone call could save you a fortune. Most conditions can be covered, and specialist insurers can tailor policies to your health. The key is honesty. Declare everything, and you can relax knowing you’re protected.”