High net worth investors regard taxation and Government policy as the biggest threat to their wealth – way ahead of economic and geopolitical issues, new research from Wealth Club, the UK’s leading non-advised investment service for high-net-worth individuals, shows. Nearly half (47%) of the respondents cited higher taxes as the biggest threat to their wealth while more than a quarter (26%) highlighted Government policy as the biggest threat substantially ahead of geopolitical events (9%). Macroeconomic and market risks such as higher inflation and volatility were only seen as a threat by around 3% while 6% fear slow economic growth. Estimated average wealth of those surveyed is around £4.5 million. Investors are pessimistic on the economic outlook for the UK in general and on taxation, interest rates and inflation specifically. Seven in ten (70%) said they were not very confident or not confident at all about the UK economy over the next 12 months. Nearly six in ten (58%) expect the Bank of England to raise interest rates over the next 12 months, while nearly two thirds (63%) expect inflation to increase over the same period. Almost all (97%) believe taxes will definitely or probably increase over the next 12 months. They are most concerned (22%) about a rise in inheritance tax while 21% are worried about the introduction of a wealth tax and 18% about an increase in capital gains tax. They are more optimistic about the UK stock market – more than a third (34%) believe it is undervalued and offers attractive long-term investment opportunities while 36% believe it is fairly valued. Alex Davies, Founder and CEO of Wealth Club, said: "It is deeply worrying that millionaires now see tax and Government policy as a bigger threat to their wealth than inflation, market volatility or geopolitical events. That is an extraordinary finding and suggests confidence in the UK's economic direction is already at a very low ebb." “Investors understand that markets rise and fall. They can diversify, invest for the long term and take sensible steps to make their finances more tax efficient. But there is only so much individuals can do when the perceived threat to their wealth comes from Government policy itself." “Governments inevitably face difficult choices and must balance the public finances. However, they should also recognise that every increase in the tax burden and every policy change that makes Britain a less attractive place to save, invest and build businesses risks further undermining confidence." "That should concern ministers because confidence is ultimately what drives investment, entrepreneurship and long-term economic growth.”

Health and wellbeing continues to be an important focus at Stratford Park Hotel & Golf Club with the launch last week of its new Reformer Pilates Studio. The state-of-the-art four-bed studio is the latest addition to the 14th-century family-owned hotel in Stratford-Upon-Avon, supporting mindful movement, strength training, flexibility, and low-impact fitness in a calm, modern environment. Co-owner and General Manager Beverley Haynes, said the inspiration came following her own frustrating customer experience. She explained: “I couldn't find the experience I wanted, most reformer classes near me were either part of a monthly paid gym membership or on a high street. While this is great to see in terms of high street regeneration, they came with no parking, no space to grab a coffee afterwards, no garden or outdoor space to sit in, no changing rooms with showers to freshen up before heading back to work and nowhere to sit and open my laptop and get on with my day." “And there were often far too many reformer beds crammed into one class, with instructors stretched thinly across a packed room. I loved the workout but just didn't love the whole experience.” She added: “Here, after class you don't have to leave, you can sit outside in the garden with a coffee, enjoy a healthy breakfast or lunch, answer a few emails or simply spend 20 minutes doing absolutely nothing." “We also made a deliberate decision to keep classes small, which means more individual coaching, more attention to technique. You're never going to be just another person in a packed room. The Reformer Edits is designed for people who don't just want to exercise, it’s somewhere they will actually look forward to spending time here.” The studio forms the latest chapter of Beverley’s plans to widen the hotel’s wellness offering and follows the launch of the wellbeing rooms last year, spaces which can be hired for a variety of workshops and therapies including counselling, coaching and classes. The Reformer Pilates classes are run by four instructors and are geared to all levels, from Beginners, Strength and Flexibility, through to Athletic, Pre/Post-Natal, Mobility and Balance. Visitors will be in the professional hands of a team including Jessica Daromas, from Alcester, Amy Edwards from Warwick, Tyra Moore from Solihull and Chloe Mason from Stratford. Reformer Pilates works on Core Strength (Building deep stability and a stronger, more supported torso; Lean Muscle Tone (Lengthening and toning muscles without heavy weights); Flexibility (Increasing the range of motion and unlocking tight joints over time); Better Posture (Improving alignment and undoing the effects of desk work); Stress Relief (Slow, controlled movement that calms the nervous system) Functional Strength (Building real-world power without the strain of heavy lifting) and Injury Prevention (Supporting recovery and protecting the body for the long term.) Beverley said: “I’ve spent over three decades in the hospitality business and it’s getting tougher every year, business rates, cost of food and drink and every square meter of our business has to earn its place but it also has to improve the guests’ experience." “This was an opportunity to create a space that encourages people to slow down, move well, stay longer and enjoy the experience, rather than just ticking another workout off the list!” The studio is open from August 11th. Further information is available here.

Accountability, an Edinburgh-based financial services and accounting business, is celebrating a trilogy of national accolades: being named a Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026, achieving B Corp certification, and becoming one of the first organisations in the UK to be accredited as a flexible workspace. Since it was established in 2012 by Rosie Berridge, Accountability has set itself apart from competitors by putting people first and focusing on doing business in the right way. An accounting service with a difference, Accountability has supported over 130 businesses across the UK to grow through its bespoke professional expertise and financial services. With an 83% annual client retention rate, and 87% of new clients coming through existing client referrals, Accountability’s approach to business is resonating with the industry. Founder, Rosie Berridge, said: “At the end of last year, Xero published research that showed two in five small business owners don’t know if they’re making a profit. Sadly, this statistic is all too relatable for us, as many of our clients have faced this exact problem before coming to us and learning how to understand their finances in a way that makes sense to them." "Through our work we support business owners to thrive, not just survive. We act as an outsourced finance department and provide customised support to allow them to focus on growing their business while we help them to understand the numbers behind them." "From automating finance workflows, to bringing clarity to numbers and restructuring reports so they provide insights business owners actually need, we provide a flexible service that takes the stigma and guesswork out of running a business. It’s this approach to business that has seen us grow from a team of five in 2020 to a team of 17 today and has ensured clients not only stay with us, but also refer us to other business owners in need.” Alongside its professional approach to supporting clients, Accountability’s recent B Corp Certification and Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 Small Organisation accreditation demonstrate its deeply embedded employee-focused culture. The business puts people at the heart of everything it does, operating a highly flexible working policy and sharing 15% of its net profits amongst the team. It’s this attitude to work and building a workplace that evolves with the needs of its employees that has seen it recognised by Flexibility Works Scotland as one of the first ten accredited flexible workplaces in the country. Berridge added: “When I founded Accountability I did so because I knew the traditional model of ‘once a year accounting’ doesn’t give small business owners the support they actually require - they need someone available throughout the year with real understanding and insights on their business." "Whether we’re supporting a new local startup or helping an established business untangle a financial mess left behind by previous advisors, our philosophy is simple: we put people first. We firmly believe in running our business with integrity, flexibility and a strong sense of community. Securing B Corp status and being recognised by the Sunday Times proves that when you genuinely look after and care about your team and clients, business growth naturally follows.” Committed to supporting the local community, Accountability also donates a percentage of profits each year to charity. This year, the business will donate 5% of its annual profits to Give Blood 4 Good, a Scottish charity set up to encourage as many young adults across the UK to donate blood as possible, to ensure everyone who needs a blood transfusion can receive one. Alongside this profit share, the team is also participating in a number of additional fundraising activities, from skydives to a Munro challenge, with an overall donation target of £12,000. Last year saw Accountability donate £3,265 to Cancer Card. As part of its ambition to support businesses of all sizes to understand and recharge their finances, Accountability is running a free three-part webinar series this August. Taking place on August 5, 12 and 19, the webinars will run for 45 minutes over lunchtime and deep dive into topics such as how to supercharge Xero, how to access the insights every business needs, and how to customise your financial support to enable your business to grow. For more information on Accountability, or to sign up for the upcoming webinar series, visit here.

A Nottingham project focused on theatre, film and audio has received a cash donation from a global packaging firm. Hothouse is a charitable organisation based in Bakersfield Community Centre in Nottingham. Formed in 1998, it has provided a range of creative projects for young people and adults in the area. Now, thanks to a charitable donation from home-grown family business The Wilkins Group, it has added £1,000 to its funds, helping Hothouse continue delivering creative projects for the local community. Guy Jones, of Hothouse Theatre, said: "This donation will help us continue offering creative opportunities that build confidence, skills and community connections for people in Bakersfield and beyond." Over time, Hothouse has evolved to provide and promote a range of creative projects. It set up its first Film Club on the Brickyard Estate thanks to funding from Children in Need, has since staged fringe productions through Hothouse Theatre, publishes an online magazine, and supports community projects through film-making and promotional video production. Guy said: “We work with individuals of all ages and abilities, as well as with community projects. We use the creative process involved in producing theatre, drama, film and audio pieces to help develop confidence, aspiration, and skills, and to address issues within the community.” Justin Wilkins, joint managing director of The Wilkins Group, said: “Hothouse is an inspiring organisation. When we heard about the work it does, we knew it was a charity we wanted to support with a donation." “The charity’s work is inclusive, empowering, and a little different, which is what makes it so special. We love that there is freedom to try new things, build confidence and share their ideas through a range of creative projects. It's a fantastic charity that’s making a lasting difference.” This is the second year that The Wilkins Group has pledged to support different local charities every month for a year. So far in 2026, the Colwick based business has donated a total of £7,000 to creative charities including, Robin Hood Theatre Company, Nottingham Youth Orchestra, Carlton Operatic Society and Young Creatives Nottingham, as well as giving to St John The Baptist Primary Academy. The Wilkins Group is a family run business which has grown from humble graphic design beginnings based in a rented building in Talbot Street, Nottingham, to a global firm. Remaining true to its founder’s ethos, it still has its UK headquarters in Nottingham, making it one of the East Midlands’ major employers, while also prioritising giving back to the community and workforce that has helped build the firm’s reputation and success. Dedicated to improving the environmental impact of industry, the business creates packaging designs and innovations that aim to reduce and ultimately eradicate single-use plastics within the industry. It is already leading the way in alternatives including the use of compostable materials and oven safe board trays for food packaging. The Wilkins Group produces food packaging for brands including Pukka, Pizza Express, Harrods and Cadbury. It also is credited with producing bespoke and award-winning items such as eco-friendly coat hangers and the iconic M&S light-up glitter gin bottles. For more information on The Wilkins Group, visit here. For more information on Hothouse Theatre, visit here.

M&S has officially opened its transformed Pantheon flagship store in the heart of central London. The iconic Oxford Street building with its distinctive green ‘PANTHEON’ lettering is set to be one of the capital’s most popular shopping destinations. The transformed flagship store offers the very best of M&S Food, Fashion, Home and Beauty over four floors and almost 100,000 square feet of transformed modern shopping space. The Fashion, Home and Beauty floors have been completely renewed with a new R&D concept, creating a new blueprint for future stores. M&S will use the store to test and learn with successful features rolled out across the wider estate over time. Store renewal and rotation is a key priority as M&S reinvests for growth, ensuring the right stores are in the right place, with each store offering the best possible shopping experience for customers. Pantheon is one of six stores M&S is renewing in the capital this financial year, alongside four brand new store openings. Across the UK, two new full-line stores, 18 new Food stores, four extensions and a number of renewals are planned. The store has remained open while work has been underway, with the lower ground fresh market-style foodhall opening last August and Womenswear and Beauty in January. This morning, the store’s remaining two upper floors have been unveiled, showcasing the latest Menswear, Kidswear, Lingerie and Home collections. Dedicated rooms across each floor showcase curated collections, with dedicated product moments, zoning and architectural features, all supported by ambient lighting, a colour palette of signature heritage green and warm neutrals, bespoke scents and curated playlists. Key features include a brand-new bespoke suiting offer, a first for M&S menswear, enabling customers to create a made-to-order suit in-store, dedicated Body Shop lingerie room, Babywear room, Beauty Hall offering beloved M&S ranges and third-party brands, including K-Beauty. An M&S x Kelly Hoppen homeware edit also features within a bespoke section of Home, designed by the renowned interior designer herself. Across the store, customers will find new, easy to shop product displays, bold digital screens providing outfit inspiration and a seamless Click & Collect, payments and services experience. The final Pantheon store reveal comes as M&S celebrates 100 years in the fashion industry by launching its debut London Fashion Week (LFW) collection this autumn. Stuart Machin, M&S Chief Executive, said:  “In 2019, we built the blueprint to modernise our Food business, with a new food format designed to capture the soul of a fresh market. We started at Clapham St John’s Road and have renewed 160 of our food stores since then, including here at Pantheon." "Now we’re taking that same approach into Fashion, Home and Beauty. Pantheon on Oxford Street, where we’ve had a store since 1938, is our first full-line flagship and our R&D store for Fashion, Home and Beauty. It’s where we’re testing how we make shopping our ranges easier, more curated and more inspiring, from clearer product moments to how the store looks and feels overall." "It’s a good example of our strategy to protect the magic and modernise the rest, holding on to the quality, style and value people know and trust us for, while making the experience more modern." "We’ve still got a lot to do modernising our estate, with 25 years of catching up to do. But Pantheon is a big step forward.” Over 100 guests, including M&S Ambassadors, joined Chief Executive Stuart Machin and members of M&S’ leadership team for a preview of the store on Sunday evening.

M&S has announced the roll-out of ten new lower emission DAF XD electric trucks across its supply chain logistics fleet, including one first-of-its-kind electric truck. As part of its Plan A roadmap to Net Zero by 2040, M&S has committed to move to low carbon logistics, increased use of new technologies and cleaner fuels. M&S is introducing new technologies to its fleet with a vehicle fitted with an integrated inverter that draws power from the vehicle’s main battery and converts it to supply the trailer’s refrigeration unit. Developed through the eFREIGHT 2030 project, part of the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure programme, this marks the first deployment of this technology on a DAF truck in the UK and reduces the need for diesel-powered refrigeration on chilled journeys. By enabling refrigeration to run on electricity rather than diesel, this innovation is a significant step forward in the transition towards fully electrified transport operations. The new vehicles build on M&S’ electric fleet expansion and join 8 other zero-tailpipe emission battery electric HGVs and five battery electric Rigids. Five of the new vehicles are already in service and a further five will enter operations this year. Mick Pethard, Group Fleet Manager at M&S, said: “Adapting our logistics network is vital in achieving our Plan A Net Zero ambitions. We’re committed to reducing carbon emissions from our transport and, through collaboration with Gist and DAF, we are able to trial new technologies, reduce carbon, save energy and drive operational efficiencies across the business.” M&S continues to innovate and invest in projects to reduce carbon emissions across its operations as part of its Plan A roadmap to Net Zero, including work to modernise its supply chain and trial technologies that can help lower the impact of moving products to depots and stores.

M&S opens the doors to its biggest ever standalone Food store in Godalming, Surrey, as it continues to invest in bigger, better stores that help more family customers complete their weekly shop at M&S. The brand-new 22,000sq ft Foodhall, located in The Wharf Retail Park, Woolsack Way, opened and brings the full M&S Food range together under one roof. The store is a former Homebase site and forms part of M&S’s wider investment in new and renewed stores to modernise its estate, create larger Foodhalls and make M&S more relevant for families doing more of their weekly shop. Godalming showcases the next generation of the M&S Food stores, with a brighter, easier-to-shop layout and more space for customers to browse the products they buy every week. The store includes wider fresh produce areas, multi-temperature zones in herbs, organic and fruit, a larger in-store bakery, an enhanced cheese barge, a dedicated chicken shop, Mai Sushi, a rotisserie chicken counter, a new kitchen shop with family kitchen essentials and an upgraded beers, wines and spirits shop-in-shop. Designed around how modern families shop, the store has more room for weekly shop missions, improved customer flow and a broader mix of everyday essentials. Alongside the full M&S Food range, the store will carry the full Remarksable Value range, which has expanded to 175 products, with everyday shopping-list staples benchmarked against competitor prices while maintaining the quality, sourcing, ingredient and welfare standards customers expect from M&S. Customers will also find a series of new and upgraded areas designed to make the store feel easier to shop in, from fresh market-style produce and bakery counters to kitchen essentials, floral and horticulture, frozen fruit, pet food, organic ranges and family-friendly features including mini trolleys for children. To mark the opening, the Godalming team welcomed a queue of customers from 8am, with opening-day activity including a giant inflatable Percy Pig outside the store and special Godalming tote bags for the first customers. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director of M&S Food, said: “We’re doubling our Food business with investment where family customers are asking for it most: bigger, better stores and more trusted value on the products families buy every week." “Godalming is our biggest ever standalone Food store and an example of the kind of modern, full-range Foodhall we’re investing in as we double the size of the business. It brings together the full M&S Food range, more space for the weekly shop and the latest store design so customers can get everything they need in one trip, without compromising on the M&S quality they expect.” Amelia Holiwell, Store Manager at M&S Godalming, said:  “We welcomed so many excited customers this morning at Godalming, and I’m so pleased that they all had a fantastic reaction to the new store. The team of 80 new colleagues has worked incredibly hard to get the store ready and we’re really proud to open a Foodhall that brings the very best of M&S Food to Godalming, from fresh produce and bakery to family favourites, great value and everyday essentials.” The store is open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 9pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

Hampshire Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the organisers of the county’s newest airshow on a ‘behind-the-scenes’ networking opportunity for members and other businesses. The inaugural Hampshire Air Festival is an aviation-themed, family-friendly weekend designed to celebrate 'The Age of Flight' through flying displays, static and heritage aircraft, pyro aerobatics, drone displays, fireworks and a STEM learning area. It takes place at Thruxton Aerodrome near Andover on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026. On the eve of the show, Friday 11 September, Hampshire Chamber will host a behind-the-scenes networking day at the aerodrome starting at 10.30am. Ross McNally, Chief Executive and Executive Chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is a prime opportunity for representatives from our members and other businesses to meet, connect, have fun and potentially collaborate on business ideas in an atmosphere that breaks away from the usual." “It is networking with a real difference, bringing the business community together in a unique aviation setting. We’ll be surrounded by aircraft, equipment and aviation industry themes that reflect the power of engineering, scientific insight and innovation. There will be a keynote speech, topical business presentations, scope to ask questions of pilots and other aviation experts and the chance to see aircraft landing. We hope it will inspire fresh thinking and new connections.” Festival organiser Jonathan Moore, founder and Chief Executive of owner Montserrat Events, said: “Thanks to our exciting new partnership with Hampshire Chamber, we anticipate business professionals from across the region will attend what promises to be a meaningful and enjoyable networking day with an aviation theme.” Joining members from Hampshire Chamber for the networking day will be representatives from fellow event partners Omni Business Development Network and Total Business Network. Thruxton Aerodrome began as a Second World War airfield, built in the early 1940s for fighter, transport and glider operations. When the war ended, flying activity shifted to training and general aviation, and the airfield moved into civilian hands. Motor racing arrived soon after. In 1950 motorcycles began using the old runways and perimeter roads, followed by car racing in 1952. The wartime surfaces didn’t hold up for long, so the site was redeveloped during the late 1960s into a purpose-built circuit. The new track opened in 1968 and quickly became known as one of the fastest circuits in Britain. Today Thruxton carries both histories. The aerodrome continues to operate for aviation training and private flying, while the circuit remains a major fixture in British motorsport. For more information on the Hampshire Air Festival visit here.

Radfield Home Care has been named a finalist in two categories at the 2026 BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards. The home care franchise is in the running for Franchisor of the Year - Expanding and Franchise Support, reflecting the growth of its UK network and the investment made in helping franchise partners build stronger businesses. Founded by siblings Dr Hannah MacKechnie and Alex Green, Radfield has grown to 36 offices, supporting more than 1,100 clients and employing 840 care professionals. Network turnover has more than doubled from £10.3m in 2022 to £24.7m in 2025. Radfield’s double shortlisting is underpinned by its ASCENT Pathway, which provides commercial and operational support at each stage of a franchise partner’s development. The company was also recognised in both 2022 and 2025, receiving the Princess Royal Training Award for its support of franchisees. Its collaborative approach and robust process have led to every Radfield office inspected by the Care Quality Commission being rated Good or Outstanding, with 33% holding an overall Outstanding rating. Alex Green, co-founder and CEO of Radfield Home Care, said: “Being shortlisted in both categories shows how far the network has come. Growth and support have to go together. Opening more offices means little unless franchise partners are building strong businesses, creating local jobs and delivering consistent care." “When we won Emerging Franchisor of the Year in 2019, we were still putting much of the structure behind the network in place. Since then, our franchise partners and national office team have worked hard to build a model that gives each business the support it needs at every stage.” Julie Scott, owner of Radfield Home Care Chester & Ellesmere Port, grew turnover from £760,000 in 2024 to £1.1m in 2025, an increase of 44%. She said: “The support from Radfield’s national office has developed with the business. In the earlier stages, we needed help with building local demand and putting the right systems in place. As we have grown, the conversations have moved towards performance, team structure and where we go next." “The team understands where we are and will challenge us on what needs to improve. That has helped us grow without losing sight of the quality of care we provide.” Radfield has received four consecutive five-star franchisee satisfaction ratings from WorkBuzz. Staff turnover across the network is 14%, compared to a sector average of 29%. Additionally, 95% of clients surveyed in 2025 said they would recommend the company. It was also awarded the Gold award for Most Outstanding National Home Care Group and Franchise Network at the 2026 Home Care Awards. The BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards will be announced at Telford International Centre on 12 November 2026.

An Aberdeenshire sports coach has delivered free sports coaching to 7,000 pupils through weekly sessions at rural primary schools across the region, a year after launching his business with support from Business Gateway. Robert Bartlett set up Fit-Ba Sports in August 2025 to run health and wellbeing sessions through sport for children at schools throughout Aberdeenshire. Each week, pupils take part in coached sessions designed to build fitness, teamwork and confidence through a range of sports and activities. The business now reaches children at Auchterless, Crudie, Fyvie Primary, King Edward Primary, Monquhitter, Ordiquhill and Turriff Primary schools, with Robert having delivered over 400 across the schools in the past year. Robert previously worked as a sports coach for a charity in Aberdeen City, running free sessions for pupils during the school day. Living in Turriff, 45 minutes from Aberdeen, he saw that children in rural parts of Aberdeenshire had no equivalent access. Families faced extra costs, such as travel, and no organisation nearby offered the service to schools. Robert first approached Business Gateway with the aim of running sessions in four schools. Cameron Shore, his Business Gateway adviser, provided expert one-to-one guidance to help him get started. Through Cameron's support in signposting funding, Robert was able to apply for the Aberdeenshire Start-Up Grant and received £1,000, which he used to buy sports equipment and improve the quality of his sessions. Cameron also advised Robert on the legal requirements of running a business and worked with him on his marketing and sponsorship approach. Robert has since secured backing from several local businesses, which has helped him expand into three more schools and improve what he can offer pupils. He also received a day of one-to-one marketing support through Business Gateway’s Expert Help service. Robert Bartlett, owner of Fit-Ba Sports, said: “This first year has gone past so quick, with more than 400 sessions held across the schools and some magical moments throughout. Developing skills and techniques is important, but it's just as important to give every child access to different sports and activities, and the confidence to try something new." "The sessions have been full of smiles, teamwork and children stepping outside their comfort zones. Their confidence and effort has grown massively, and I'm incredibly proud of them all." "This year also saw 35 P7 pupils join our Rising Stars programme, developing leadership skills by supporting younger pupils. That's given them life skills they can carry into secondary school and beyond." “Business Gateway has been a huge part of making this growth possible. The support means I’m now able to work across more schools and deliver a better experience for the kids because of it.” Cameron Shore, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Robert came to us with a clear idea and a genuine gap to fill. Rural schools in Aberdeenshire don’t always have access to the same opportunities as those in the city, and Robert set out to change that and has made a real impact in the local community." “Watching a first-time business owner turn a personal conviction into something this many children benefit from every week is exactly why I do this job and I look forward to continuing to support Robert as he develops Fit-Ba Sports.” To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here.

Wealthy UK-based families are increasingly considering the Channel Islands as a “near-shore, offshore” option as they reassess where they live, work and structure their affairs following the abolition of non-dom status, according to Rathbones’ offices in Jersey and Guernsey. New statistics from HMRC this week, the final publication under the old regime, showed a fall in the number of non-domiciled and deemed domiciled taxpayers, down to 81,900 in 2024/26, with combined tax and National Insurance liabilities of £13.6 billion, a 9% year-on-year increase, underlining the economic significance of this internationally mobile group. The prospect of higher taxation and greater complexity is prompting some high net worth individuals to look again at where they plan, manage and preserve their wealth. Research by Rathbones earlier this year showed that nearly 6,000 entrepreneurs left the UK between 2024 and 2026. Rathbones Investment Management International, part of Rathbones Group, said the data release should be seen in the context of a broader shift in global wealth planning. Tax remains important, but families are also weighing political stability, legal certainty, safety, education, healthcare, connectivity and quality of life. Marc Nightingale, Senior Investment Director in Jersey, said: “The latest non-dom statistics are a useful moment to take stock of how international wealth is moving, but they are not the full story. The end of the UK’s non-dom regime has sharpened conversations about mobility, but tax is only one part of the decision." “Families are thinking more broadly about resilience, optionality and where they can build a secure base for themselves and the next generation. For some, that may be the Channel Islands; for others, it may be another international hub. The common theme is the need to bring tax, investment, succession, governance and lifestyle considerations together.” While a number of destinations have become known for welcoming the internationally mobile, Jersey actively seeks to attract entrepreneurs, business owners and investors who can make a long-term contribution to the island. Through its High Value Residency programme, applications are assessed not only on financial criteria but also on the prospective economic and social contribution individuals can make to the community. Rob Broughton, Senior Investment Director in Jersey, said: “Jersey is a good example of how priorities are changing. Clients expect a well-regulated international finance centre, but what often matters just as much is connectivity, schools, safety, lifestyle and access to high-quality professional services." “We are seeing entrepreneurs, business owners and investment professionals who want to remain internationally active while building a better long-term base for their families. The decision is rarely about one factor; it is about how wealth, work, family and future plans fit together.”

Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has announced that The Bonnie Badger will return to its historic name, The Golf Inn, as the much-loved Gullane venue prepares for a major transformation. The venue will continue to operate until later this year, when it will close for refurbishment. Works are expected to take place across autumn and winter, ahead of reopening in spring 2027. Returning the venue to The Golf Inn name celebrates an important part of Gullane’s heritage, with the historic inn having served generations of local residents and visitors long before becoming The Bonnie Badger. The move reflects Buzzworks’ commitment to preserving that legacy while investing in the venue’s future. The Golf Inn will become part of Buzzworks’ signature House Collection, offering a stylish pub, restaurant and rooms experience where guests can eat, drink and stay while enjoying everything Gullane and the wider East Lothian coastline has to offer. The project also represents another step in Buzzworks’ expansion into accommodation. Once reopened, the venue’s bedrooms will provide an ideal base for golf breaks, coastal escapes, family visits and business travel in one of Scotland’s most popular destinations. Led by internationally acclaimed designer Jim Hamilton, the transformation will enhance the venue’s existing character while introducing the timeless, stylish and comfortable design synonymous with Buzzworks’ House Collection. Throughout the closure, The Bonnie Badger team will remain part of Buzzworks and be offered roles at the nearby Bass & Barrel in North Berwick, before having the opportunity to return to The Golf Inn ahead of its reopening. Kenny Blair, CEO at Buzzworks, said: “Returning this much-loved venue to The Golf Inn name feels like the right way to mark the beginning of its next chapter." “The Golf Inn holds a special place in the history of Gullane and remains a name that means a great deal to many people in the community. As we invest in the building, we want to recognise that heritage while creating a venue that will serve locals and visitors alike, whether they are popping in for a coffee, enjoying a meal with family or staying overnight." “This investment is about building on everything that has made the venue so special over the years. We want The Golf Inn to remain a place local people are proud of, while creating a memorable experience for guests visiting Gullane and the surrounding area. We look forward to welcoming everyone through the doors when The Golf Inn reopens.” The venue will offer four room types - snug, comfy, spacious and sumptuous - with each bedroom combining boutique styling and thoughtful touches including premium linen, statement artwork, Roberts radios and rainfall showers. The largest rooms will also be suitable for families. Buzzworks is a B Corp-certified business and has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for ten consecutive years. The group currently operates 25 award-winning bars and restaurants across Scotland and was named Best Managed Pub Company in the UK (under 51 sites) at the 2025 Publican Awards. To find out more, visit here.