KCC Business Advice

04/09/2026

📦♻️ Thinking about updating your packaging?

Join this free FDF webinar to explore the latest trends, sustainability requirements and how data can help you make smarter packaging decisions.

📅 9 September | ⏰ 10am-11am | 💻 Free

More information: https://loom.ly/gWF66lE

Packaging is changing fast. Join Ecosurety's experts as they explore the trends, regulations and sustainability challenges driving packaging redesign across the producer landscape.

03/09/2026

💻🔐 Is your business ready for the future of digital marketing – and protected from cyber threats?

Join Kent & Medway Growth Hub for a FREE Digital Marketing & Cyber Security Workshop for Kent businesses, packed with practical advice you can start using straight away.

🤖 Nick Huxsted, Gooey Digital – discover how AI and LLMs are changing the way customers find businesses, and how to adapt and future-proof your digital marketing.
🔐 Paul Lopez & Arran Ostridge, Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre – learn about common cyber threats and the practical, proactive steps you can take to protect your business.

Plus, take part in a live Q&A and networking with fellow businesses and our event partners.

📅 Wednesday 7th October 2026
⏰ 10am–12pm
📍 Ashford International Hotel
🎟️ FREE for Kent businesses
🔗 Book here: https://tinyurl.com/8fvx3tec

Grow your business online with expert advice on digital marketing, lead generation and practical cyber security.

02/09/2026

📢 Think you may be exempt from Making Tax Digital for Income Tax?

If you're self-employed or a landlord and believe you're unable to use digital tools due to personal circumstances or digital exclusion, you may be able to apply for an exemption from Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax.

✅ Applications are now open for those who need to use MTD from April 2026 or April 2027.

If an exemption is granted, you'll continue to report your income through a Self Assessment tax return rather than using MTD software.

⚠️ Don't assume you're automatically exempt. Check your eligibility and apply before you're due to join Making Tax Digital.

🔗 Find out more and apply via HMRC: https://loom.ly/Up-kBq8

Find out how to apply for an exemption from Making Tax Digital for Income Tax.

01/09/2026

⚠️ Could your business be underinsured?

Many SMEs are unknowingly leaving themselves exposed by not reviewing their insurance cover regularly or updating it as their business grows. 📋💼
Research shows that large numbers of SMEs are either uninsured or underinsured, putting their business, finances and future at risk.

Did you know:
✅ More than 2 in 5 SMEs believe their underinsurance will increase in the year ahead.
✅ Two in 5 SMEs say they have been unable to claim for property or equipment damage because they were uninsured or inadequately insured.
✅ A lack of understanding, deliberate underinsurance and not updating cover are key reasons businesses become underinsured.

Take time to review your insurance policies and make sure your cover reflects your current business needs. Being properly protected today could save your business tomorrow.

Read more from the ABI: https://loom.ly/uCWiKSc

28/08/2026

Kent Trading Standards has welcomed new government measures aimed at tackling doorstep criminals and improving protection for consumers having home improvement work carried out.

While the vast majority of builders and tradespeople are honest professionals, a small minority continue to cause significant financial and emotional harm through poor workmanship and deceptive practices.

Clive Phillips, Operations Manager at Kent County Council Trading Standards, said:

"Measures that help people identify reputable traders and protect their payments are positive steps forward. However, strong enforcement remains essential, and we will continue to work with partners to investigate offenders, support victims and take action against those who profit through deception and poor practice."

Before agreeing to any work, always do your research and use trusted schemes such as Trading Standards Checked.

➡️Read the full story: https://loom.ly/pNxOEp4

Citizens Advice Consumer Service: 0808 223 1133

A database of trusted tradespeople and a system to protect customers' money is being launched by the government next month.

28/08/2026

🌟 Could your town be one of the UK's best?

Let's Celebrate Towns 2026 is now open! 🏘️

Businesses, community groups and local partners can help showcase the people and projects making a real difference to their town. Winning towns will receive a £20,000 grant to support community-led initiatives and local business growth. 💷✨

Find out more: https://loom.ly/Cvhias4

📅 Entries close 25 October 2026

27/08/2026

💼 Thinking about selling your business in the future?

Whether it's in 2, 5 or 10 years' time, the steps you take today can make a big difference to your business's value. 📈

Join Kent and Medway Growth Hub for a FREE workshop with business sales expert Nick Brooker (B**r Mergers) and discover how to build a stronger, more attractive, sale-ready business.

✅ Understand what your business is worth
✅ Learn what buyers look for
✅ Increase business value
✅ Reduce owner dependency
✅ Plan ahead for a successful exit

Plus, enjoy a live Q&A and networking opportunities with fellow business owners. 🤝

📍 Free to attend
📅 24th September 10:00 - 12:00
🎟️ Book your place today: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/build-a-business-that-works-without-you-4849246?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=odclsxcollection

🚀📊

26/08/2026

🚀 Put your brand at the heart of Kent & Medway's future!

Only 4 weeks to go until RESET KENT AND MEDWAY – Business Summit 2026 at .

✅ Sponsorship opportunities still available
✅ Atrium stand & speaking opportunities
✅ Network with regional leaders

📅 17 Sept | Canterbury
🎟️ Early bird tickets end 28 Aug

Find out more https://loom.ly/QUqVlMY

🚀

For booking, information and updates on the Kent and Medway Business Summit taking place on Tuesday 13 May 2025.

25/08/2026

The hot, dry weather has increased the risk of wildfires across the country.

That's why the Government has issued guidance advising that disposable BBQs should not currently be sold in shops or online.

If you're a Kent retailer, now is the time to remove disposable BBQs from sale and stay updated with the latest Government advice.

➡️ Stay updated: https://loom.ly/5OD6hqY

24/08/2026

📱🚀 Thinking about selling online?

Over 300,000 UK SMEs are now selling on TikTok Shop, with LIVE Shopping sales up 55% year-on-year. Businesses are using live shopping to engage customers, showcase products and boost sales in real time.

It could be a great opportunity to reach new audiences, grow your brand and increase sales. 📈🛍️

Read more: https://loom.ly/Q3tmU8Q

300,000 small UK businesses are now selling on TikTok Shop and LIVE sessions have grown 55% over the last year