The UK government has pledged to cut administrative regulatory costs for SMEs by 25%, simplify licensing, and modernise corporate reporting requirements. But Azets says SMEs have heard similar promises before – and are still waiting to feel the benefits.

From duplicative forms to delays in licensing decisions, regulation continues to eat into SME productivity. Azets says reforms must be felt on the ground, not just in policy documents, if the UK is to be the best place to start and grow a business.

The “Backing Your Business” strategy includes regulatory streamlining measures designed to make life easier for SMEs. Azets says success should be measured by whether owners see a real reduction in time spent on compliance.

Greig McKnight, Azets regional managing director for Scotland, said: “We’ve been here before – ‘cutting red tape’ sounds great, but SMEs will judge it on delivery.

“That means fewer duplicative forms, faster licensing, simpler tax processes, and regulation proportionate to business size. Until owners feel it in their everyday workload, it’s just words.”