UK firms halt investments and hiring as Iran war pushes up costs, bosses warn
UK businesses are halting investments and hiring due to rising costs and uncertainty stemming from the ongoing Iran war. A survey indicates that many companies are prioritizing cost management over growth, with significant challenges arising from supply chain issues and increased energy prices. As political instability looms, the outlook for job creation and economic stability remains bleak.
- ▪More than half of medium-sized businesses reported that higher energy and fuel costs are their biggest challenges.
- ▪The number of job vacancies in the UK for April decreased by 7.7% compared to March.
- ▪Almost 60% of employers cited cost management as their key priority amid rising expenses.
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Delays to materials, costs, stock shortages and suppliers folding are a top concern for two in five business leaders. Photograph: Dmitriy Shironosov/AlamyView image in fullscreenDelays to materials, costs, stock shortages and suppliers folding are a top concern for two in five business leaders. Photograph: Dmitriy Shironosov/AlamyBusinessUK firms halt investments and hiring as Iran war pushes up costs, bosses warnSurvey shows businesses ‘struggling to absorb latest economic shock’, while data says April vacancies down 7.7%Sarah ButlerSun 17 May 2026 19.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe worsening fallout from the Iran war is forcing businesses to halt their UK investment and hiring plans, bosses have warned, as Britain enters a renewed period of political and economic…
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