Business Profile
The Federation of Small Businesses argues that small businesses are the solution to getting the UK out of recession, and certainly its members are upbeat about the future, but say the still need support – something the FSB is fighting for.
More than half of businesses have resisted the worst of the recession by innovating, creating new products and services, according to a new survey by the FSB and ICM.
The FSB-ICM ‘Voice of Small Business’ Annual Survey 2009 reveals that 53 per cent of businesses introduced new or improved products and services last year, and 51 per cent intend to continue innovating next year, showing that small businesses are keen to grow and develop, despite the tough times.
The FSB argues that small businesses are the solution to getting the UK out of recession in its election manifesto, Small Business, Big Vote: The Route to Recovery – FSB 2010 Election Manifesto, in which it shows that small businesses are innovators and job-creators, with more than 80 per cent of new jobs created by small businesses in the five years to 2007.
Stuart Roper, South Oxfordshire’s membership advisor for the FSB, said: “I visit many different businesses as part of my work for the FSB and most are optimistic for the future, but can see the benefits and support they can get from FSB membership.
“For example, there is the FSB Legal Benefits Package which is designed to provide essential business protection to members through a range of professional services.”
FSB members are entitled to:
n Access to legal advice from qualified lawyers 24/7 365 days a year.
n Tax advice from HM Revenue & Customs trained specialists.
n Information and documentation on employment law, tax and commercial law through the FSB's members-only website.
n Insurance cover for legal and tax professional fees and statutory awards in the event of an employment dispute or full tax enquiry.
Stuart Roper continued: “In recent years there has been a deluge of employment legislation, much of it protective of the employee. Employment tribunal activity has increased significantly and so too have costs, time, complexity and awards. Tribunal costs remain virtually unrecoverable.
“Over the same period small businesses have continued to be targeted for investigation by HM Revenue & Customs. The FSB’s Legal Benefits Package offers help, guidance and insurance protection for businesses faced with defending such claims.”
Additional benefits can also be gained from services available exclusively to FSB members:
Financial Services
FSB Business Banking – free business banking
FSB Credit Card – £10 off membership when you pay using this card
FSB Independent Financial Services – financial health check worth £250
FSB Finance for Business – free consultation and financial analysis
FSB Deposit Account – £50 credit account with initial deposit of £2,500
FSB Factors – 10 per cent reduction against standard service charge
Business Services
FSB Fuel Card – single VAT invoice for fuel purchases
FSB Merchant Service (card servicing) – three months free terminal rental
FSB Insurance Service – free credit check report
FSB Telecom – free business telephone line installation
FSB Mobile Card Payment Terminals – £50 accessories free on mid and long term hire
Medical Services
FSB Medical – £50 cash back on medical plans.
With more than 213,000 members nationwide and with 8,000 in the Thames Valley, the FSB offers great opportunities to network with new clients and suppliers.
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