Phil McMullin, Head of Sales Commercial & Industrial Printing and Business Systems, Epson UK says…

“Backing British businesses to grow starts with helping more people take the first step into business. That includes the designer launching an online shop, the maker creating personalised gifts and the sole trader building a customer base from home.

“This budget placed a welcome emphasis on supporting small businesses, including additional backing for the British Business Bank. The priority now is ensuring that support reaches these entrepreneurs at the earliest stages, alongside more established firms looking to expand.

“More affordable, easy to use digital printing technology can lower the cost and complexity of getting started. It enables people to start small, create personalised products in small batches and test designs before expanding as demand grows. Practical business advice, digital skills and access to finance can help more people make the most of that opportunity.

“The success of today’s measures should be judged by how straightforward they are for a first time business owner to access and use. People starting from home or alongside another job need a clear route to support and the confidence to invest and plan. Helping them turn their first orders into a dependable income deserves a place in the UK’s growth ambitions.”

www.epson.co.uk