
Budget Pressure, Productivity Crisis: My Take on the Real Problem
In hospitality; there’s costs everywhere… but the real killer is productivity and a culture that’s “quietly talked us out of graft”.
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In hospitality; there’s costs everywhere… but the real killer is productivity and a culture that’s “quietly talked us out of graft”.

Sean Keyes, CEO of Sutcliffe, comments on the Liverpool City Region set to receive £700m to build new social and affordable housing as part of a major Government programme:

Knowledge Quarter Liverpool has launched KQ CLICK, a new purpose-built business support network, designed to help businesses connect, land, innovate, collaborate and knowledge share.

The Wheelbarrow, located next to Greenbank Sports Academy, is bringing festive cheer to Liverpool this Christmas. From live music and afternoon teas to creative workshops and private parties, The Wheelbarrow offers the perfect setting to celebrate the magic of Christmas.

Join Sedulo’s Tax Advisory Team for a live screening of Rachel Reeves’ Autumn Budget 2025 announcement, followed by in-depth analysis and discussion on what the Budget means for you and your business.

Celebrate the art of Sunday dining with Chef’s selection of seasonal starters.

On Thursday 6th November 2025, Downtown in Business hosted an exclusive Leaders’ Lunch with Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, at Malmaison Manchester Piccadilly.

In this week’s blog, Jo looks at how a new wave of leaders — from New York’s Zohran Mamdani to the Netherlands’ Rob Jetten and the Greens’ Zack Polanski — are connecting with voters through energy and optimism, while Labour seems stuck in the November gloom.

The appearance of Reform cheerleader Matt Goodwin on BBCs Question Time last week, his second invitation onto the flagship political programme in under twelve months, has sent Frank McKenna over the edge. In his latest blog, he asks why the BBC, and much of the mainstream media in the UK, are so doughy – eyed over Populists, and so hard on Labour.

Downtown in Business has welcomed the launch of the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority Shadow Board — a key milestone in delivering devolution and unlocking £650m of investment across the region.

On Tuesday 4th November 2025 Downtown in Business hosted the Change Makers Live Summit at Aston University , bringing together senior leaders from business, policy, and academia to explore how innovation, governance, and technology are driving the West Midlands’ economic future.

Book your meeting or group accommodation from the value of £5000 and receive a complimentary spa break with bed & breakfast!