In this episode of Upside, Ali and Zamir unpack the mounting economic pressures facing UK businesses, from the long-term cost of Brexit to shifting marketplace dynamics and a disappointing government budget. They explore how these forces intersect and why small businesses continue to feel overlooked in an increasingly complex economic environment.

What’s Covered in This Episode

Ali and Zamir begin by examining the estimated cost of Brexit to the UK economy, which they suggest is now running at around £100 billion per year, equivalent to roughly 4 to 5 percent of GDP. They discuss how these losses are not abstract figures but real costs felt most acutely by small and medium-sized businesses through increased bureaucracy, reduced trade efficiency, and lost growth opportunities.

The conversation then turns to Amazon’s recent decision to reduce certain fulfilment fees, particularly in apparel. While this move may appear positive on the surface, Ali and Zamir argue it is largely aimed at competing with ultra-low-cost platforms such as Temu and Shein, potentially benefiting overseas sellers while placing further pressure on UK-based brands already operating on tight margins.

They also reflect on the latest budget announcement, expressing frustration at the lack of meaningful support for small businesses. The discussion highlights ongoing policy gaps, including delays around the removal of the de minimis threshold, which continue to disadvantage domestic sellers.

Throughout the episode, Ali and Zamir connect these themes to a broader concern that small businesses remain central to the economy yet consistently neglected in policymaking, raising serious questions about long-term sustainability and growth.

Key Takeaways

• Brexit’s ongoing cost: The UK economy is estimated to be losing around £100 billion annually as a result of Brexit.
• SMEs feel the impact most: Increased admin and reduced trade opportunities are hitting smaller businesses hardest.
• Amazon fee cuts are strategic: Reduced fulfilment fees appear designed to compete with Temu and Shein rather than support UK sellers.
• Budget disappointment: The latest budget offers little to no relief for small businesses.
• De minimis delays matter: Continued uncertainty around thresholds is creating further strain for UK-based sellers.
• Policy neglect persists: Small businesses are vital to the economy but remain under-supported by government decisions.

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