The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget includes a number of measures that could affect businesses across Dorking, from independent shops and cafés to pubs, restaurants and professional services.
Business rates, wage increases and changes to tax and investment allowances are among the key areas to watch. Some measures may offer financial support or help businesses manage costs, while others will need to be factored into budgets and business planning for the year ahead.
We’ve pulled together the main headlines relevant to local businesses, along with the key details to look out for over the coming weeks and months. The impact will vary depending on the size and type of business, so it’s worth checking the detailed guidance as it becomes available.
This is a general guide and doesn’t constitute advice. You should make your own checks and consult your accountant on what this means for your business finances ongoing.
Key announcements
- Business rates relief for high-street businesses – Changes to Small Business Rates Relief and additional support for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure properties could reduce bills for some businesses from April 2027. Check your rateable value and eligibility.
- Two-year business rates protection – Eligible retail, hospitality and leisure properties will receive a real-terms freeze on business rates bills in 2027/28 and 2028/29. Look out for further details on how this will be calculated.
- Extra support for pubs and music venues – Business rates relief for eligible pubs, social clubs and live music venues is set to increase from April 2027. Check the final eligibility criteria.
- Minimum wage increases from April 2027 – The National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over will rise to £13.21 an hour. The rate for 18–20-year-olds will increase to £11.27, while the rates for 16–17-year-olds and eligible apprentices will rise to £8.31. Employers should factor these increases into staffing budgets and update payroll systems ahead of implementation.
- Fuel duty freeze extended – The existing 5p-per-litre fuel duty cut will continue until July 2027, offering some support to businesses reliant on deliveries, transport and business travel.
- Changes to business investment allowances – Changes to tax relief on qualifying equipment and other investment may affect the timing and cost of planned purchases. Businesses considering significant investment should seek advice from their accountant.
- Capital Gains Tax relief for business owners – Changes to Business Asset Disposal Relief could affect owners planning to sell or dispose of their business. Check the revised rules before making decisions.
- Tax changes affecting savings and property income – Changes due from April 2027 may affect business owners who also receive savings or property income. Review your personal tax position with an accountant.
- Support for entrepreneurs and start-ups – Changes to the trading allowance and planned support for young entrepreneurs may offer opportunities for some new businesses. Watch for eligibility requirements and application details.
- Reduced red tape and import costs – Changes to company reporting requirements and extended tariff suspensions on certain imported products may help some businesses reduce administrative or purchasing costs. Check whether the measures apply to your business.
- Household energy support – Measures to help households with energy costs may ease some pressure on customers’ budgets, although businesses should not assume they qualify for the same support on commercial energy bills.
What businesses should look out for
Over the coming weeks and months, businesses should:
- Check updated business rates bills and relief eligibility.
- Review staffing costs and prepare for the April 2027 minimum wage increases.
- Speak to your accountant about investment plans, tax changes and business sales.
- Look out for official guidance on new allowances and support schemes.
- Revisit operating budgets, taking account of wages, energy, fuel and supplier costs.
Further information: Visit GOV.UK for the latest official guidance and detailed Budget documents.
This is a general summary of the main announcements relevant to Dorking businesses. Eligibility, implementation dates and the financial impact will depend on the final rules and individual circumstances.
