Business News Round Up (03/01/19)
Scottish Retail Consortium urges MSPs to pass Scottish Budget in ‘timely fashion’
The Scottish Retail Consortium has praised the Scottish Budget’s positive measures taken surrounding business concerns and is urging for a coherent approach to make it less costly for businesses to operate in town centres.
https://www.insider.co.uk/news/retail-business-rates-relief-scotland-13803026
UK manufacturers facing biggest worker shortage in 30 years
The British Chambers of Commerce has revealed UK manufacturers are facing the biggest shortage of skilled workers since 1989. Manufacturers struggled to hire the right staff towards the end of 2018 as ministers prepare to introduce restrictions on EU nationals working in the UK after Brexit.
North West confidence remains robust as UK average falls
The Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking found that the North West’s figures remained robust while overall confidence fell seven points across the UK during December.
Jacobs Aecom JV wins £5m deal to review Scotland’s transport projects
Jacobs Aecom JV has won a £5 million contract to review Scotland’s strategic transport network. The contract will inform a 20 year Infrastructure Investment plan for Scottish Ministers and will align with the next National Planning Framework.
Over £1 million in funding unlocked by Greater Manchester firms
The Innovation Services has supported the creation of more than 300 new jobs for the Greater Manchester region over the past two years, in addition to helping businesses access over £1 million worth of funding for research and development projects.
https://www.businessupnorth.co.uk/over-1million-in-funding-unlocked-by-greater-manchester-firms/