Sun, 04 Jan 2026

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 Will we see signs of economic growth in 2026?

Foodbank use and the fortunes of the hospitality trade will show if things are getting better or worse.

* Economy and cost of living are the most important concerns for over half of voters
* Business confidence is at its lowest level in some time, according to local chambers of commerce Government's response:
* Measures announced in November's budget include raising minimum wage, scrapping two-child benefit cap, and removing "green taxes" from energy bills
* Effectiveness of these measures will be closely watched in 2026 Cost of living crisis:
* Food banks are on the frontline of the crisis, with charities reporting a high demand for assistance
* Colchester's food bank sees over 3,000 people per month, including school teachers, police officers, and nurses
* Trussell Trust charity reports 332,500 food parcels handed out across East England in past year Hospitality industry:
* Business confidence is low due to rising costs and increased tax burden
* Industry body Hospitality UK estimates average business rates will rise by 94% over next three years
* Pubs and restaurants are feeling the pinch, with some owners forced to cut staff hours or increase prices
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