The 2025 Autumn Budget delivered on Wednesday 26th November by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves brings a number of changes that could affect how UK businesses manage costs, staffing, pensions, and financial planning.
From wage increases 2025 and pension salary sacrifice reforms to transport costs and cashflow considerations, it’s important for business owners to understand what’s changing, and how to stay ahead.
The National Minimum Wage for workers aged 21 and over will increase to £12.71 per hour from April 2026.
Why it matters for UK businesses:
From April 2029, only the first £2,000 a year of pension contributions via salary sacrifice will retain NI advantage. Contributions above this threshold lose the benefit.
What businesses could do:
The Budget brings several measures to support the smallest businesses and those losing relief:
Why this matters:
With income tax, national insurance contributions, and changes to pensions and wages frozen, household disposable income may be constrained. This could influence consumer demand for goods and services.
For UK businesses:
Flexibility is key in today’s environment. Holding working capital in business savings accounts and having access to flexible finance allows businesses to:
The Autumn Budget 2025 highlights the need for businesses to plan carefully for rising costs and changing employee benefits. At Aldermore, we provide business savings and finance solutions designed to give UK businesses the flexibility and support they need to grow confidently.
Whether you’re managing working capital or planning new investment, we help businesses prepare for change and make the most of opportunities.