Britain's economy has struggled to grow in recent years and companies are now bracing for the new Labour government's solution - a hike in employer taxes to invest in infrastructure and public services, but which bosses fear will lead to higher costs and lower hiring.
Trade body the British Retail Consortium (BRC) said growth was minimal in the final quarter of the year in effect a fall in sales volumes once higher prices are taken into account - and the higher taxes due in April will likely push up prices and cut investment in stores and jobs.
Amid the gloom, the biggest companies performed the strongest.
This story is from the January 08, 2025 edition of Khaleej Times.
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This story is from the January 08, 2025 edition of Khaleej Times.
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