Here are some of the top business stories making the national headlines this morning.
Hunt to set out plan for growth as criticism mounts
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will set out his plan to boost growth on Friday, as criticism mounts over the government’s strategy for the economy, reports the BBC.
Shop occupancy rates improve despite cost of living crisis
The number of shops lying vacant on British high streets fell during the final three months of 2022, despite pressure on both firms and consumers from surging costs, reports Sky News.
British taxpayers get stake in psychedelic medicine, whisky and footballers’ investor
British taxpayers have become shareholders in a further 53 companies backed by a government rescue funding scheme, including a company that makes carbon negative period products, a firm producing meat cultivated directly from cells without the use of animals, and a “holistic” whisky distiller, reports The Guardian.
Rolls-Royce a ‘burning platform’ that must change to survive, warns new boss
The new chief executive of Rolls-Royce has delivered a blistering message on the future of the motoring engineering giant, telling staff it is a “burning platform”, reports The Telegraph.
Wholesale group Bestway takes 3.45% stake in Sainsbury’s
Costcutter and Well Pharmacy owner Bestway Group has bought a 3.45% stake in Sainsbury’s that could be worth around £193 million, reports the Evening Standard.
