The OakNorth blog

Read the latest industry news, find practical advice on how to grow your business and smart tips to save for the future, all here on the OakNorth blog.

Business development

Why family businesses succeed

Wednesday October 4th, 2023

Generations of families are behind some of the world’s largest businesses, like Walmart, BMW and Mars. They lead the way in many countries, making up over 85% of private sector businesses in the UK, 67% of companies in Australia, and 87% of American companies are family-owned or controlled. And, while most family-run companies don’t have the extreme drama of the […]

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Industry news

The rise of the warehouse — how businesses are expanding their storage and distribution efforts

Thursday August 31st, 2023

With changing online shopping habits post-pandemic and a major shake-up in UK distribution lines post-Brexit, it’s no wonder that warehousing and storage companies are on the rise. Many businesses are looking for answers to their growing fulfilment needs, and both national and regional centres are stepping up to meet this demand.

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Partnerships

Getting the best loan for your clients: why cost shouldn’t be the only factor

Wednesday August 16th, 2023

Versions of artificial intelligence (AI) may have been around from the first computers of the 1940s, but when the advanced chatbot ‘Chat GPT’ went viral in late 2022, the pace of AI development rapidly increased.

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Childcare and education

What we’ve learnt from leading special education needs provider Melrose Education

Tuesday August 8th, 2023

What does it take for a business to make a lasting impact in an industry? We’ve backed some of the most exciting pioneers in all kinds of markets and have taken inspiration from their innovative solutions to challenges. And one sector where exceptional service makes a massive difference is in specialist schools.  With rising numbers […]

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Partnerships

The vital role of human connection for accountants and advisors in a digital-first world

Wednesday August 2nd, 2023
Woman and man in meeting with laptop

Versions of artificial intelligence (AI) may have been around from the first computers of the 1940s, but when the advanced chatbot ‘Chat GPT’ went viral in late 2022, the pace of AI development rapidly increased.

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Industry news

Landlords, don’t freeze on MEES

Monday July 31st, 2023
Solar panels on a house roof

We’re over halfway through 2023, which means that the updates to the Domestic Minimum Efficiency Standard regulations (MEES) for all newly rented properties come into play in less than two years. The new efficiency standards for properties with existing tenancies will be enforced in 2028. Sounds like ample time for landlords to get to grips […]

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