The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has new branding, has overhauled its website and is digitising its library of small business advice as well as streamlining access to its membership services, joining processes, and campaign activity.
New FSB research found that while members value membership services such as its 24/7 legal advice, financial support, and employment expertise, among small businesses who were not yet members, awareness of these services was not widespread. The FSB hopes its new website, along with more active social media participation, will help change this.
Director David Miles, explained: “FSB is an organisation created and led by smaller businesses for smaller businesses. We know our members really value the services we offer, safe in the knowledge that these have been carefully selected to fit with their needs. However, we need to get better at getting the message out. Our website is our shop window and I am confident today’s investment will help great numbers of businesses to see the value of what we have to offer.”
There are now more businesses than ever starting up with around 5.4 million registered in the UK at the start of this year, an increase of 1.9 million since the turn of the millennium. More than 99% of private sector businesses are small firms, accounting for 48% of private sector employment and 33% p of private sector turnover.
Miles added: “Smaller businesses face numerous challenges related to a range of upcoming policy changes including the new National Living Wage, pensions auto-enrolment deadlines, and changes to the way dividends are taxed. The more members we have, the more strength we have to stand up for these businesses and make sure their voice is heard by Government.”