BusinessIn Wales

Advertorials, Charities Special

How charities can prepare for increased HMRC scrutiny

How charities can prepare for increased HMRC scrutiny How charities can prepare for increased HMRC scrutiny Lee Bradley – Tax Partner, Bevan Buckland Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Charities and not-for-profit organisations are facing increased scrutiny from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), with greater focus on financial governance, compliance procedures, and the correct application of tax reliefs. Through the introduction of Structured Risk Reviews (SRRs), HMRC is expected to examine payroll compliance, VAT returns, Corporation Tax (where applicable), and Gift Aid claims more closely. In this blog, Lee Bradley, Tax Partner at Bevan Buckland, looks at what Structured Risk Reviews could mean for charities, the potential impact of HMRC enquiries, and the practical steps trustees and finance teams should consider to strengthen compliance and reduce risk. Why HMRC Is Increasing Oversight The charity sector continues to play an important role in the UK economy, with more than 170,000 registered charities contributing billions of pounds each year. At the same time, charities are operating in an increasingly challenging environment, with tighter regulation, growing financial pressures and greater expectations around transparency and accountability. Structured Risk Reviews form part of HMRC’s wider compliance activity and are intended to assess whether charities have suitable systems, controls and governance arrangements in place. The reviews are not simply about identifying errors or unpaid tax. They are also designed to give HMRC a clearer understanding of how financial risks are managed within an organisation and the level of oversight being exercised by trustees. As part of the process, HMRC may seek detailed information on payroll procedures, VAT treatment, Gift Aid claims, and, where relevant, Corporation Tax compliance. Organisations may also be asked to demonstrate how financial decisions are reviewed, approved and documented internally. For charities with limited internal finance resources, responding to these requests can be both time-consuming and disruptive, particularly where processes have evolved over time or records are not easily accessible. Areas Charities Should Review Given the increased focus on compliance, now is a sensible time for charities to review key financial procedures and ensure appropriate controls are operating effectively. Areas worth reviewing may include: Gift Aid claims and supporting documentation – ensuring declarations remain valid, records are retained correctly, and claims are fully supported. Even relatively minor administrative errors can lead to delays, adjustments or additional enquiries. Payroll compliance and PAYE procedures – particularly where charities employ a combination of full-time staff, part-time employees and casual workers. Trustees should ensure that benefits, expenses, and pension obligations are treated appropriately. VAT treatment and partial exemption rules – reviewing whether VAT has been applied consistently across charitable and non-charitable activities, and identifying potential risks before they develop into more significant compliance concerns. Financial oversight and internal controls – considering whether reporting lines, approval procedures and internal review processes remain fit for purpose and can demonstrate strong governance if HMRC opens an enquiry. Accounting records and financial documentation – ensuring records are accurate, accessible and up to date so information can be provided efficiently if requested during a compliance review. Investigation insurance and fee protection – considering whether appropriate cover is in place to help manage the professional costs associated with HMRC enquiries and compliance investigations, and speaking with accountants or professional advisers about the options available. The Potential Impact of an HMRC Enquiry Even where no issues are ultimately identified, HMRC enquiries can place considerable pressure on internal teams. Responding to requests for information often requires significant management time, detailed reconciliations and professional support. Professional representation during an enquiry can be particularly valuable where HMRC requests extensive documentation or undertakes a more detailed compliance review. Experienced advisers can help organisations manage communication with HMRC efficiently and ensure information is presented clearly and accurately. Many accountancy firms now offer tax investigation insurance or fee protection services, which can help charities manage the potentially significant professional costs associated with HMRC enquiries and investigations. Preparing for Greater Scrutiny Early preparation can help reduce disruption and allow charities to respond more confidently should HMRC open an enquiry. Organisations that regularly review procedures, maintain accurate records, and strengthen internal controls are generally better positioned to manage compliance checks effectively. As HMRC increases its focus on governance, financial oversight, and the correct application of tax reliefs, trustees and finance teams should ensure compliance remains an ongoing priority rather than a reactive exercise. A proactive approach to payroll, VAT, Gift Aid and wider financial controls can help reduce risk, support good governance and provide reassurance to trustees, funders and stakeholders alike. If you would like to discuss HMRC compliance, charity governance or our investigation insurance, our specialist team can help. Please get in touch by emailing mail@bevanbuckland.co.uk or by calling 01792 410100 to find out more.   Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Finance

How flexible finance helped Matthew Jones Ceramics grow

How flexible finance helped Matthew Jones Ceramics grow How flexible finance helped Matthew Jones Ceramics grow Advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Matthew Jones Ceramics creates tactile ceramic tableware that balances visual appeal with everyday functionality. The pieces are often first noticed for their distinctive colours and sculptural forms, drawing people in from across a room or display. Alongside producing his own work, Matthew also runs workshops from his ceramics shop, sharing his skills with the local community and helping others engage with the craft. His development as a business owner has also been supported through grant funding from Caerphilly Borough Council, which has played an important role in enabling his growth and providing valuable backing during key stages of his journey. Matthew’s relationship with Hexa Finance began when he met Adrian Coles, one of our employees, at a Help to Grow event held at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Conversations at the event highlighted shared interests around craft, sustainability, and business development, and the two have remained in contact since. This initial meeting laid the foundations for an ongoing connection, supporting Matthew as he continues to develop his practice and grow Matthew Jones Ceramics. The Requirements Matthew required funding to purchase a range of key assets essential for the day-to-day running and growth of his ceramics business. This included specialist equipment sourced from several different suppliers, reflecting the bespoke and practical needs of a working ceramic studio rather than a single off-the-shelf purchase. Ordinarily, this type of request would be suited to asset finance, where funding is paid directly to a dealership or equipment provider. However, following detailed discussions with Matthew, it became clear that a standard business loan would be more appropriate for his current circumstances. The variety of suppliers involved made asset finance less practical, and greater flexibility was needed to allow Matthew to manage purchases in a way that best supported his workflow. Another key consideration was Matthew’s intention to strengthen his overall funding position through a government grant. For this to be viable, it was important that the funds were paid directly to him rather than to individual suppliers. A business loan enabled this, giving Matthew control over the timing and allocation of expenditure while also helping him to meet the requirements needed to unlock additional grant funding, including those supported by Caerphilly Borough Council. The Solution Business Loan: Following the initial discussions and assessment, a business loan was approved on the same day, allowing Matthew to move forward without delay. The loan was structured with flexible repayment terms over four years. While loans of up to six years were available, Matthew felt that a four-year term best suited his financial position and future plans, striking a balance between manageable repayments and minimising the overall cost of borrowing. The Feedback Matthew Jones, Founder, stated: “Sourcing finance through Hexa Finance Limited was made easy with the help of Zach. Communication was clear, responses were quick, and the process felt straightforward from start to finish.” Zach McClymont, Sales Support Executive, said: “Working with Matthew has been a great opportunity to support an exciting Welsh business with a clear creative vision. It’s been especially rewarding to see the positive impact this funding has already had, and I’m proud to have helped provide a solution that supports both Matthew’s current needs and future growth.” If your business is looking for practical financial solutions, Hexa Finance is here to help. Get in touch with us here. Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Skills & Training

Successful training isn’t about how deep your pockets are but about how smart your strategy is

Successful training isn’t about how deep your pockets are but about how smart your strategy is Successful training isn’t about how deep your pockets are but about how smart your strategy is adverorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  At the end of last year, the Employer Skills Survey highlighted that investment in training among UK businesses had fallen to its lowest levels since tracking began back in 2011. This seemed to indicate that organisations are tightening the purse strings and, in an increasingly challenging climate, the first casualty is the L&D budget.   But cost-cutting when it comes to training doesn’t have to spell a cut in quality or a delay in individual and organisational development. This is because training doesn’t rely on big investment, but on better consideration of your needs, careful planning and ensuring you are playing to your strengths.  As well as this, Welsh businesses are able to access fully-funded work-based learning from the Welsh Government. Meaning that the only investment they need to make is time and ensuring their employees are supported throughout their learner journey. Here are some things to consider.  Training isn’t a tick box exercise  Training shouldn’t be treated as something someone does because they have to. Attendance alone doesn’t create the value, rather the change it yields as a result of what’s learnt is what’s valuable. Good training challenges how a person performs, how a team operates and how a business can drive positive change.  Organisations who maximise their training budget shift the question from ‘what training should we buy?’ to ‘what do we need our people to do better?’ This shift in thinking reframes learning as a strategy rather than a one-off purchase.  Talent is right under your nose  Before looking externally, it’s worth taking a closer look at what you have within your organisation. Many businesses assume they lack certain skills when, in reality, they just haven’t had chance to come to the forefront yet. Knowledge often sits informally within teams, built through experience but not formally recognised or shared.  Employees can often become accidental experts in their field, with a wealth of knowledge that they could be sharing with others. And that’s not just sharing within their team but to the wider organisation to help others gain new insight and skills. By utilising internal staff knowledge, businesses can reduce unnecessary spend and share skills that are particularly relevant to their operations.  Ensure change is the centre of your focus  A common challenge in learning and development is focusing on the training itself rather than the impact it can have. It’s easy to measure how many people attended a course or enrol in a qualification, but much harder to measure what change it yields.  The most effective training is directly linked to real business challenges and gives people the opportunity to apply new skills straight away. When learning is tied to practical, measurable goals that are linked to an individual’s role it becomes part of everyday work – meaning change feels like a natural development rather than another task added to the list.  When looking at training options, keep in mind the goals you have and how this training will help obtain them.  Apprenticeships are for everyone    Apprenticeships are often misunderstood as being only for new starters or entry-level roles. This is not the case, in fact, they are undertaken by professionals at all stages of their careers as they offer a flexible route to develop skills on the job.   From gaining better insights into digital tools to becoming a more confident manager, work-based learning offers progression in a wide variety of subjects.   ACT, Wales’ largest training provider, worked with more than a thousand organisations to help develop their staff. The team works with businesses to understand their goals, ensuring that training becomes a strategic tool for growth both for the individual learner and their employer.    If you’re currently looking at your 26/27 training budget, make sure to keep in mind that the most important question shouldn’t be ‘what training can I afford?’   It should instead be ‘am I making the most of the funding available to me?’ ‘Am I developing the people I already have?’ and ‘Is the training yielding the results we need?’ Because ultimately, the organisations that are getting ahead this year won’t be the ones spending the most on training, but the ones thinking about how learning can drive the most change.   Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials

For motorists contemplating the switch to electric driving, the charge being made by Audi certainly isn’t going unnoticed

For motorists contemplating the switch to electric driving, the charge being made by Audi certainly isn’t going unnoticed For motorists contemplating the switch to electric driving, the charge being made by Audi certainly isn’t going unnoticed Advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  From stylish sportbacks and spacious estates to supreme SUVs and scintillating sports cars, the ever-growing range of Audi e-tron models has never offered such a wide and wonderous choice. Indeed, the allure of engaging performance, sophisticated design and intuitive technology – together with the promise of innovation, comfort and efficiency – means the line-up is generating huge interest in Wales and indeed across the rest of the UK. Audi delivered more than 1.6 million vehicles to customers worldwide in 2025, with deliveries of electric models equating to approximately 36 per cent of the total. Underpinned by the impressive sales performance of its electric e-tron models, Audi has strengthened its foothold in the world of electromobility with several standout vehicles now elevating their appeal on British shores. Demand for Audi’s fully electric Q4 e-tron and Q6 e-tron SUV and Sportback models remained consistently strong last year, accounting for 14,443 and 13,148 sales respectively. Both models are now ranked among the top five best-selling BEVs in the UK. In total, 30,955 Audi BEVs were delivered to customers, representing a record 28% share of Audi UK’s sales. Recent developments mean the aforementioned EVs now look set to increase their popularity. The A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron have been treated to a comprehensive update that make the driving experience even more emotional, intuitive, and efficient for owners – both in terms of hardware, such as new headlights, and software, in the form of new features for driver assistance and entertainment. With the new drive select mode “dynamic plus,” S6 e-tron drivers can now savour heightened motoring thrills. This mode is specifically designed to deliver rear-biased driving dynamics and markedly sporty handling. At the same time, the manufacturer has also increased the efficiency of the electric duo by improving regenerative braking: the vehicles can now decelerate to a standstill without transitioning to conventional friction brakes. This makes stopping particularly smooth and even more comfortable, with the additional kinetic energy recovered then used for energy regeneration, improving efficiency and range. As well as the addition of Black Edition and Vorsprung specifications, the extent of help available from the Audi assistant driver aid has been impressively expanded. Thanks to the integration of ChatGPT, it is now possible to find destinations and entertainment content using vague descriptions. The system can also act as a digital companion, helping with organisation while on the road, for example, by reading out or writing emails. And whilst every journey aboard the A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron will be informed, they will be immersive too courtesy of the new “experience worlds” feature that uses interior lighting, sound, massage functions, and climate control settings to create tailored moods and an invigorating or relaxing atmosphere in the vehicle. The all-electric models also offer the Power Nap mode, which creates a calm and restful ambience for short breaks, such as while charging. Meanwhile Sinclair Audi showrooms in Bridgend, Swansea and Neyland are preparing to welcome the latest version of the brand’s electric bestseller when the new Q4 e-tron goes on sale this summer. The refreshed electric crossover now boasts a sharper design and wows with a reimagined digital stage, intuitive controls and an abundance of space making the electric entry point into the Audi brand even more attractive – for families and fleet customers. The Q4 e-tron is the first Audi model to support bidirectional charging – its high-voltage battery can both receive energy from the grid and feed it back to external devices. For example, for fans of transport on two wheels as well as four, this will allow e-bikes to be charged from a power socket in the boot or via an adapter on the charging port. Powered by an even more efficient electric motor, the enhanced Q4 Sportback e-tron performance now offers up circa 360 miles of range. The maximum SUV charging capacity has increased from 175 kW to 185 kW which, on longer journeys, keeps charging stops brief. In some variants, the high-voltage battery adds 115 miles of range in just 10 minutes and charges from 10 to 80 per cent in only 27 minutes. Of course, if there’s one e-tron model that continues to excite and catch the eye, it is the celebrated e-tron GT. The UK has recorded one of the highest levels of demand worldwide for this electrifyingly sleek and sublime sports car and this has grown following last year’s arrival of an exceptionally enticing entry point to the range. The e-tron GT quattro can unleash up to 584PS of power, while also covering up to 384 miles when its battery is fully charged, meaning it can very capably fulfil the Grand Tourer role but is equally at home in city traffic too. With news of an all-electric entry-level model family in the compact class in the shape of the A2 e-tron, which is due to be unveiled later this year, Audi’s electric mobility charge continues to advance with widened appeal and more vehicle choices than ever before. For further information on any model in the e-tron range, please contact your nearest Sinclair Audi Centre or visit www.sinclairaudi.co.uk Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Finance

Do You Need to Submit a Self-Assessment Tax Return?

Do You Need to Submit a Self-Assessment Tax Return? Do You Need to Submit a Self-Assessment Tax Return? Alun Evans – Partner, Bevan Buckland Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Most people assume HMRC will tell them if they need to complete a tax return. In reality, the responsibility usually falls on the taxpayer to recognise when additional income or gains need to be reported. With the wide range of income sources, allowances and reporting thresholds now in place, it is not always straightforward to establish whether a Self-Assessment tax return is required. In some cases, a full tax return may not be necessary, but HMRC may still expect you to report additional income separately. To help clarify these requirements, Alun Evans, a Partner at Bevan Buckland’s Haverfordwest office, outlines common situations where individuals must register for Self-Assessment and report extra income to HMRC. What is Self-Assessment? Self-Assessment is the system HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) uses to collect Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax, where tax has not already been deducted automatically. For employees, tax is normally collected through the PAYE system. However, if you receive other income or need to report gains or claim certain tax reliefs, you may also need to complete a tax return. Common Reasons You May Need to Submit a Tax Return Self-employment and partnership income You will usually need to register for Self-Assessment if you are self-employed and your total trading income exceeds £1,000 in a tax year before expenses are deducted. If your income is below this level, it may be covered by the trading allowance, and no tax return may be required. If you are a partner in a business partnership, you will normally need to complete a tax return regardless of the level of income received. Rental income Many landlords are unaware that rental income can trigger a requirement to complete a tax return. If you receive income from letting property, you may need to report it to HMRC, particularly if rental profits exceed the available allowances. We regularly assist landlords who have unintentionally fallen behind with their tax reporting obligations, sometimes over several years. Investment and overseas income You may also need to complete a tax return if you receive: untaxed income of more than £2,500; significant dividend or savings income; foreign income; income from a trust; or income that has not been fully taxed at source. In some cases, even where no additional tax is due, HMRC may still require the income to be declared. Capital gains A tax return may also be required if you dispose of assets such as property, shares or investments and make a taxable capital gain. It is important to remember that gains arising on the sale of a residential property that has been let out must generally be reported to HMRC and any Capital Gains Tax paid within 60 days of completion. Claiming tax reliefs Self-assessment is also used by many taxpayers to claim additional tax reliefs, including: higher-rate tax relief on personal pension contributions; and additional relief on charitable donations made under Gift Aid. Other circumstances Other situations where a tax return may be required include: where you need to repay a student or postgraduate loan outside the PAYE system; where you claim more than £2,500 in employment expenses; or where you are a non-UK resident but receive taxable UK income. What Changed in April 2026? From April 2026, many higher earners and individuals subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge no longer need to submit a Self-Assessment tax return solely for that reason, as the charge can now be collected through PAYE. However, if you have already completed a tax return for other reasons, details of any Child Benefit received during the tax year will still need to be included. Situations Where You May Still Need to Contact HMRC There are also circumstances where a full Self-Assessment tax return may not be required, but HMRC still expects additional income to be reported separately. Examples can include: employment expenses below £2,500; smaller amounts of untaxed income; modest levels of rental income; savings or dividend income below reporting thresholds; and small amounts of self-employed income. The reporting requirements in these areas can be complex and are not always intuitive, particularly where multiple sources of income are involved. How We Can Help Understanding when you need to submit a tax return is not always straightforward, and the rules continue to evolve. At Bevan Buckland, we help clients review their reporting obligations and ensure they submit the correct information to HMRC on time. If you are unsure whether you need to complete a Self-Assessment tax return, or would like advice on your wider tax position, please get in touch by emailing mail@bevanbuckland.co.uk. Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials

More Than the Encore: How Summer Gigs are Powering Cardiff’s City Centre Economy

More Than the Encore: How Summer Gigs are Powering Cardiff’s City Centre Economy More Than the Encore: How Summer Gigs are Powering Cardiff’s City Centre Economy Advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  From Cardiff Castle and Blackweir Live to the Principality Stadium, Cardiff’s summer of live music brings thousands of fans to the city, helping the city’s businesses thrive, long after the encore. For Cardiff’s businesses, concert season is one of the most important times of the year.From packed brunch services and fully booked hotels to late-night drinks and post-show dining, live music is powering Cardiff’s economy in real-time. FOR Cardiff’s Summer of Music campaign aims to support visitors, business owners and those who live and work in the city, helping everyone make the most of concert season. For visitors, this means highlighting Cardiff’s vibrant retail and hospitality hotspots, while for residents, workers and businesses it means providing clear travel and logistical information to help them plan, from encouraging sustainable ways to travel into the city, to supporting businesses in planning staff rotas and making the most of the marketing opportunities created by tens of thousands of gig-goers in Cardiff for our Summer of Music. Cardiff Comes Alive During Concert SeasonConcert days bring a unique buzz to Cardiff’s hospitality businesses. With visitors arriving ahead of events and staying into the evening, the atmosphere and economic impact extend beyond the venues themselves. Beauclair Data provided by FOR Cardiff demonstrates how hospitality spend reached £18 million in in July 2025, a 20% increase on 2024, highlighting the growing impact of major events on the city centre economy. Restaurants see increased daytime footfall, bars benefit from stronger evening trade, and retailers gain from fan making the most of their time in Cardiff. For many businesses, major concert weekends rank among the busiest and most valuable periods of the summer season. What sets Cardiff apart is the connectivity of its city centre. Its compact, walkable layout makes it easy for visitors to move between venues, shops, restaurants and attractions, helping to drive footfall and support businesses across the city. Whether enjoying a coffee before a show, shopping ahead of doors opening, or staying overnight after the event, visitors are helping to support a wider city centre economy that sustains local jobs, independent businesses and Cardiff’s growing reputation as a leading live events destination. More Visitors. More Spending. More Opportunities.Cardiff’s summer concerts attract audiences from across Wales, the UK and beyond and many turn their visit into a full day or overnight experience. Live music fans are not only attending concerts but are also:• Staying overnight in Cardiff hotels• Booking tables at restaurants and bars• Shopping in the city centre• Visiting local attractions• Using public transport to travel sustainably and easilyEvery additional stop helps support the businesses that make Cardiff such a vibrant place to visit.For city centre businesses, these major events provide an opportunity to introduce new customers to Cardiff’s hospitality, retail and cultural offer, encouraging many to return outside of concert season.How Music Fans Can Support Cardiff’s Businesses This SummerConcertgoers play an important role in helping Cardiff city centre flourish during the summer season. Small choices can make a big difference to local businesses. Stay OverTurning a concert into an overnight stay helps support Cardiff’s hotels and keeps visitors in the city for longer, creating more opportunities to explore everything the capital has to offer. Eat and Drink in the CityFrom independent coffee shops and brunch spots to award-winning restaurants and late-night bars, Cardiff’s food and drink scene is part of the experience.Arriving early or staying after the show helps support hospitality businesses across the city centre. Shop LocalWhether picking up an outfit before the show, browsing independent stores or visiting major retailers, shopping in Cardiff helps support the businesses that keep the city centre vibrant year-round. Use Public TransportTravelling by train, bus or park and ride services helps reduce congestion on major event days while making it easier to enjoy the city centre safely and sustainably.Cardiff’s excellent transport links make it easy for visitors to arrive, explore and head home after the show. A Small City Built for Big MomentsCardiff has become one of the UK’s leading live events destinations, and the city’s welcoming atmosphere is a huge part of that success. The combination of iconic venues, independent businesses, major brands, walkable streets and passionate hospitality teams creates an experience that visitors remember long after the music ends. And while artists may headline the shows, Cardiff itself leaves a lasting impression.This summer, every booking, meal, overnight stay and shopping trip helps support the people and businesses at the heart of the city centre. When the music starts, Cardiff comes alive, and everyone has a part to play in helping the city thrive. Discover MoreFOR Cardiff’s Summer of Music campaign aims to support visitors, business owners and those who live and work in the city by providing practical advice throughout the summer season. This includes travel updates, event-day guidance, and key city centre information designed to help people plan, move easily around the city and make the most of the opportunities these major events bring for local businesses and Cardiff’s visitor economy. For the latest travel and event information during Cardiff’s summer of music, visit forcardiff.com/summer-of-music Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Charities Special

Welsh Rugby Legends Join 1,000-Mile ‘Walk of Wales’ to Fund Specialist Cancer Nurses

Welsh Rugby Legends Join 1,000-Mile ‘Walk of Wales’ to Fund Specialist Cancer Nurses Welsh Rugby Legends Join 1,000-Mile ‘Walk of Wales’ to Fund Specialist Cancer Nurses Daniel Bevan – Editor Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Prostate Cymru is proud to announce that Welsh rugby greats Rhys Priestland, Alex Cuthbert, Lloyd Williams, Jonathan Davies, and former coach Lyn Jones have officially pledged their support for the Walk of Wales 2026. This ambitious 1,000-mile expedition across Wales aims to raise £300,000 specifically to fund specialist cancer nurses across all the Welsh health boards. The initiative addresses the current “postcode lottery” of prostate care in Wales, ensuring that every man has access to expert clinical support regardless of his location. Currently, 1 in 8 men in Wales will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, a statistic the charity is determined to change through improved awareness and localised care. The sporting legends will join the trek during key regional stages. Lyn Jones and Jonathan Davies will join the coastal route from Manorbier to Broad Haven on 5th July, while Priestland, Cuthbert, and Williams will take on the stretch from Gwbert to Llangrannog on 12th July. Their involvement aims to break the traditional silence surrounding men’s health and encourage the “males of Wales” to be proactive regarding PSA testing. “With each step, we are funding a vital lifeline,” said Andy Thomas, Chairman of Prostate Cymru, who is undertaking the full 44-day trek. “The goal is to ensure that no man in Wales walks the path of prostate disease alone. By bringing specialist nurses into our communities, we provide clinical expertise right where it is needed most: close to home.” The Walk of Wales 2026 is not just a feat of endurance; it is a mobile health movement. While the core team tackles the full distance, the charity is inviting the public to get involved through nine dedicated regional walks scheduled throughout the summer. These events offer a chance for local communities to walk in solidarity, celebrate survivors, and contribute directly to the specialist nurse fund. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or looking for a family-friendly stroll, these regional stages allow everyone to play a part in this 1,000-mile journey. The campaign will also feature “pop-up” health clinics along the 1,000-mile route, offering PSA testing and awareness sessions. For more information on how to join a local walk or to support the specialist nurse fund, please visit www.prostatecymru.com Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials

One City, Two Strengths: Building a More Connected Cardiff

One City, Two Strengths: Building a More Connected Cardiff One City, Two Strengths: Building a More Connected Cardiff Advertorial Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Cardiff is a city increasingly defined by how it connects, not just in infrastructure, but in identity, economy and experience. The way people live, work, visit and invest in the capital has shifted over time, and with it, the relationship between its two most prominent destinations: the city centre and Cardiff Bay. Cardiff today functions less as a collection of isolated zones and more as a connected city ecosystem and this reality sits at the heart of FOR Cardiff’s decision to include Cardiff Bay within its proposed Business Improvement District (BID) area for the next five-year term (2026-2031). Once seen as distinct districts with separate roles, the city centre and Cardiff Bay are now experienced as part of a single urban journey. That change is subtle, but significant. It is visible in the flow of visitors moving between retail and waterfront, in the spread of hospitality and leisure across the city, in the location choices of businesses, and in the way major events draw audiences across multiple locations rather than a single core. This is set to become even more pronounced with the arrival of major new events infrastructure in Cardiff Bay, including the planned arena development, which will further strengthen the city’s capacity to host large-scale concerts, sport and entertainment. This is not a change driven by ambition alone, but by observation. The economic geography of Cardiff has evolved. Cardiff Bay is now a major centre for hospitality, culture, tourism, office development and residential growth, complementing the established strength of the city centre as a retail, commercial and civic hub. The success of one increasingly supports the success of the other. In that context, treating them as part of a connected whole is not only logical, but increasingly necessary. Connectivity is the defining principle behind the BID expansion proposal, in every sense of the word. Physical connectivity is the most visible. Improved transport links, walkable routes, and evolving public realm infrastructure have reduced the sense of distance between the city centre and Cardiff Bay. Journeys between the two are now routine for residents, workers and visitors alike. But connectivity extends beyond geography. Economic connectivity is equally important: businesses in hospitality, retail, office space, tourism and events are increasingly interdependent across the city. Decisions made in one area directly influence footfall, investment and perception in another. There is also experiential connectivity, the way people experience Cardiff. A visitor attending an event in Cardiff Bay may dine or shop in the city centre the same day. A commuter working in the city centre may choose to spend leisure time in the waterfront environment. A business investor evaluating Cardiff does not assess isolated districts, but the overall strength of the city offers. In practice, Cardiff is already experienced as a connected destination. The proposal to expand the BID area reflects this lived reality. It recognises that the competitiveness of Cardiff as a capital city depends not only on the strength of individual districts, but on how effectively they work together. Over the past decade, FOR Cardiff has delivered sustained, business-led investment into the city centre through the BID model. That investment has supported a wide range of activity designed to improve the trading environment and enhance the city experience. This has included initiatives focused on safety, cleansing, place management, events, city dressing, marketing and business representation. It has also provided a collective voice for businesses, enabling coordinated advocacy on issues that affect the wider economy of the capital. The strength of the BID model has always been its ability to turn shared priorities into practical action. By pooling resources, businesses have been able to deliver improvements that would be difficult to achieve individually, and to shape a more consistent, high-quality environment for customers, employees and visitors. Extending this model into Cardiff Bay is a natural evolution of that approach. It reflects a recognition that the challenges and opportunities facing businesses are increasingly shared across the city, rather than confined to individual districts. Issues such as footfall generation, visitor experience, public realm quality, perception, safety and promotion do not stop at geographic boundaries. Neither should the mechanisms designed to address them. Importantly, the proposal is not about dissolving the distinct identities of Cardiff city centre and Cardiff Bay. Each area has a character that is fundamental to Cardiff’s appeal. The city centre’s density, retail strength and civic role are different in nature to the Bay’s waterfront setting, cultural assets and growing leisure and office environment. Those differences are not only valuable, but they are also essential. The intention is not to blur those identities, but to strengthen them through coordination. A more connected approach allows each area to benefit from shared investment in promotion, improved alignment in place management, and a stronger collective voice when advocating for the city. It creates the conditions for both destinations to perform more effectively, while retaining what makes them unique. This is particularly important in the context of wider economic competition. Cities across the UK and beyond are increasingly competing not just on individual assets, but on overall coherence. Investors, employers and visitors are drawn to places that present a clear, joined-up offer, where movement between districts feels seamless, where messaging is consistent, and where the experience of the city feels unified. Cardiff’s advantage lies in its scale and proximity. Few capital cities offer such closely linked, complementary districts within such a compact geography. The opportunity now is to build on that advantage by aligning more closely around shared goals. The inclusion of Cardiff Bay in the proposed BID area is therefore about strengthening Cardiff’s position. It is about ensuring that investment, promotion and representation reflect the way the city functions today, rather than how it may have been structured in the past. As Cardiff continues to evolve, the need for coordinated thinking becomes more important. Growth

Advertorials, Construction, Energy, Farming, Finance, Food & Drink, HR & Culture, Legal, Manufacturing, Marketing, Mergers & Acquisitions, Public Sector & Government, Recruitment, Residential Property, Skills & Training, Sustainability & Environment, Technology & Innovation, Tourism & Travel

Businessin Wales becomes official media partner of Big Business North Wales

Businessin Wales becomes official media partner of Big Business North Wales Businessin Wales becomes official media partner of Big Business North Wales Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Businessin Wales is delighted to announce a new collaboration with Big Business North Wales, which will see the media organisation become the official media partner for the exciting new event. The large-scale business exhibition, created by North Wales entrepreneur Nina Sardar, is rapidly gaining momentum ahead of its launch. Big Business North Wales 2026, organised by f2n Business Network, will take place at Venue Cymru on Friday 5 June 2026 and is already being described as one of the most ambitious business events ever held in the region. Businessin Wales Editor, Daniel Bevan, said: “We’re very happy to start this new partnership with Big Business North Wales. “As an outlet, we reach hundreds of thousands of people every month, many of whom are in North Wales, an extremely important yet often overlooked part of Wales’ economy. “We’re so excited to be at the inaugural event and look forward to speaking with guests, exhibitors and attendees to hear all about the amazing work they do day in, day out!” Nina Sardar said: “This event was created because I genuinely believed North Wales needed something of this scale and ambition. “We have incredible businesses, talented people and huge opportunity across the region. Big Business North Wales is about creating one powerful platform where organisations can come together, build relationships, generate opportunities and showcase everything our region has to offer.” She added: “After spending seven years as a full-time mum, returning to business and seeing the response to this vision has been overwhelming. “The support from the business community has been incredible and shows there is a real appetite for a major event that champions North Wales.” Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials Linkedin X Instagram TikTok Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts

Advertorials, Public Sector & Government, Skills & Training, Sustainability & Environment

Planning on working with the Welsh Government or public sector? What your business needs to do to be green compliant

Planning on working with the Welsh Government or public sector? What your business needs to do to be green compliant Planning on working with the Welsh Government or public sector? What your business needs to do to be green compliant ACT TRAINING Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.  Across the Welsh public sector, sustainability is becoming a huge factor in procurement decisions. That means that businesses that can demonstrate credible environmental action are looked on favourably as potential partners, while those who do not risk being left behind. The Welsh public sector has an ambition to achieve net zero by 2030, with Wales as a whole targeting net zero by 2050. This means that public sector organisations are under increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions throughout their supply chains.  That means the government is looking closely at the environmental performance of the businesses it works with. For many SMEs, this can seem overwhelming. Terms like ‘net zero’, ‘carbon reporting’ and ‘sustainability strategy’, may be things you have yet to encounter but the good news is that you don’t need to become an environmental expert to navigate this new procurement landscape. There are practical steps you can take to ensure your business is competitive and desirable for public sector contracts. What’s your impact?   If your business wants to work with organisations such as the Welsh Government, local authorities, the NHS, Welsh universities and colleges or public-funded projects, you will increasingly be asked about your environmental impact, particularly for larger or higher-value contracts where sustainability scoring is formalised.  It’s something that is increasingly on these organisations’ radar and something that should be on yours too. These expectations align with legislation such as the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act, which requires public bodies to consider long-term environmental impact. Your impact includes: Your energy use Carbon emissions Waste management Sustainable travel policies Supply chain practices Environmental targets and reporting In some tenders, environmental scoring already contributes directly to whether you win or lose the contract. It’s important that you start keeping detailed records of these practices and ensuring that out-of-date policies are reviewed and renewed. How big is your footprint?   One of the first things public sector buyers may ask is whether you understand your business’ carbon footprint. Understanding is the first step to improving, so ensuring you get to grips with your carbon footprint and what can be done to improve will put you ahead. If you don’t know where to start, break it down into these elements: Electricity usage Gas or heating fuel usage Business travel Fleet fuel consumption Waste generation Water use These areas broadly fall into direct emissions (such as fuel use), indirect emissions from energy and supply chain impacts. Even if you can draft a simple baseline this will give you something to improve against. Many businesses delay this step because they think carbon accounting is only for large corporations. This isn’t true. SMEs can get ahead of their competitors if they can show that they are consciously monitoring their environmental outputs and putting plans in place to improve their footprint. Is there a policy in place? A surprising number of businesses bidding for public contracts don’t have a formal environmental policy, even though an environmental policy is often a minimum requirement and a strong indicator of an environmentally conscious organisation. A policy doesn’t need to be lengthy or filled with technical jargon. Buyers mainly want evidence that environmental responsibility is built into how your business operates. Your policy should clearly explain: Your commitment to reducing environmental impact How you manage waste and recycling How you reduce energy use The sustainability targets you are working towards Who (in your team) is responsible for these different elements. Goals should remain realistic While it might be tempting to put down lofty goals that look impressive on paper, public sector organisations want to see action not just promises. It’s also important to avoid making vague claims such as ‘we care about sustainability’, instead use specifics. Examples of this could be: Reducing energy consumption by a certain percentage Switching to renewable electricity suppliers Introducing hybrid or electric vehicles Reducing landfill waste Encouraging remote or lower-carbon working practices You don’t have to make a complete overhaul of your operations, two to three measurable environmental goals for the next year will be a great start. Small improvements can make a big difference   You’d be forgiven for thinking that sustainability requires expensive investment, but some of the easiest, most impactful wins can also be the most cost effective. Simple changes such as switching to LED lighting, improving insulation or installing timers/sensors can often reduce operating costs as well as emissions. Is your supply sustainable? Don’t be surprised if public sector buyers ask not just about your sustainability but also your suppliers’. When looking at new suppliers, or renewing existing contracts, ensure you’re considering sustainability. Think ‘is this company following environmental standards?’ ‘Are they reducing packaging waste?’ ‘Do they use sustainable materials?’ ‘Are there ethical sourcing policies in place?’ Being more mindful about your supply chain isn’t about replacing every supplier overnight, it’s more about showing awareness and asking better questions moving forward.    Is it time to train up your team?   Green compliance often comes down to confidence. Many businesses know sustainability matters, but their teams are unsure where to begin. Firstly, it’s important to identify who is responsible for sustainability in your team; that could be the facilities team who oversee energy and waste, the finance team who are responsible for procurement and supply chain contracts or the project managers who lead on sustainability ventures. If there are gaps in their knowledge there will be missed opportunities to innovate. ACT offers a variety of accredited courses that can be undertaken by any employee, regardless of their role and sector. These courses help teams understand, implement and champion sustainable practices in the workplace. ACT also offers the Energy and Carbon Management qualification, a more advanced course

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