Congratulations to Simmons Bakers, CBA member of the month for January.

The UK business landscape will undergo a significant shift from April 2026. The combined impact of the Autumn Budget 2025 and the Employment Rights Act 2025 (ERA 25) represent a fundamental recalibration of the relationship between employers and employees.

The Low Pay Commission is holding meetings with individuals and employers. We want to hear first-hand evidence about the impact of the National Minimum Wage.

The Worshipful Company of Bakers is delighted to announce the organisation of a bespoke training course which will take place in the Summer of 2026.

Whatever the size of your bakery business, and whether you run a retail operation or are wholesale only, the 2026 UK Food & Drink Shows are a date for your diary.

Congratulations to Henlann Bakery, CBA member of the month for December.

Food and drink industry event Foodex Manufacturing Solutions has appointed Joe Brammall as commercial director.

For generations, the Western Region Championship has been a standout moment in the baking calendar a place where the very best of the region comes together to celebrate craftsmanship, creativity and innovation.

Substantial restructuring of the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) system is coming in April 2026. it is important for employers to be aware of major changes on the horizon that will affect workforce planning and business costs. These reforms are intended to strengthen financial security for employees who are unwell and to support wider public health objectives, such as reducing the spread of infectious diseases. However, as we explain in this Hot Topic, they will also increase employer costs and add to the administrative demands of managing absence.

The food and drink event no business can afford to miss

This year's event, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from Monday 13 to Wednesday 15 April, comprises four shows that each target a sector of the food and drink industry.

At this time of year, it is always a good time to reflect on the past year and to plan for the next.  With 2026 set to see the most significant developments in employment law, that has been seen in decades, we consider the important steps that will help businesses to plan for change.

Congratulations to Luke Evans Bakery, CBA member of the month for November.

In this month’s Hot Topic, we focus on the legal and HR issues that arise during the festive season and how employers can confidently navigate them. With annual celebrations approaching, we explore the key risks linked to workplace social events, misconduct, discrimination, leave management and wellbeing. We also look at the steps employers should take to protect staff and reduce the likelihood of legal claims during this busy and often high-risk period.

Congratulations to Biscuiteers, CBA member of the month for October.

University College Birmingham (UCB) offers optional 48-week placements for students in its Bakery and Patisserie Technology FdSc/BSc degree programs. These placements offer students valuable real-world experience and provide employers with skilled, passionate, and creative talent.

As the festive season approaches, we are delighted to join Bira’s Love Your High Street campaign, taking place from 10 to 16 November. This special week shines a light on the independent businesses that bring character, creativity and community to our towns.

Last week, a team from the Craft Bakers Association were delighted to visit ADM Milling UK at their Corby site for a special industry showcase.

CBA members and bakery professionals recently joined Rademaker at the Radini Experience Centre in the Netherlands for an exclusive event exploring the future of bakery automation. The day offered hands-on demonstrations, expert insights, and a closer look at the versatility of the compact Radini system.

In this month’s Hot Topic, we explore the different types of dismissal that include constructive, wrongful dismissal, automatic unfair and unfair dismissal and consider how the proposed new day 1 right to claim unfair dismissal will impact avenues of claim. We will also consider other avenues for how someone can raise a claim.