Business & Economy
Stay informed on the latest news, stories, and analysis of the local business and economy in Oxford and Oxfordshire, including economic trends, key company appointments, and developments of local enterprises.
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The Oxford Trust announces Matt Francis as its next chief executive officer
The Oxford Trust has announced the appointment of Matt Francis as its next chief executive officer, succeeding Steve Burgess after a transition period in September 2026.
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Bicester-based sustainable marketing agency Webmart wins King’s Award for Enterprise
Webmart has been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, recognising its long-standing commitment to sustainability, carbon reduction and social impact across the marketing and print industry.
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Oxfordshire Business Awards 2026 announces finalists ahead of 30th anniversary celebration
The Oxfordshire Business Awards (OXBA) has announced its 2026 finalists ahead of its 30th anniversary Awards Dinner. The event will celebrate outstanding businesses from across the county, recognising excellence in innovation, leadership, and community impact.
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Bidwells launches full-service residential property agency in Oxford
Bidwells has launched a new residential agency in Oxford, bringing sales, lettings and new homes together as demand grows. The move comes amid rising house prices, increasing rents and a projected need for thousands of new homes.
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Wallingford’s Connect Catering celebrates national award recognition
Connect Catering in Wallingford celebrates national recognition, with team member Sally Allen shortlisted at the 2026 Contract Catering Awards.
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The Oxford Trust appoints two new trustees to its board
The Oxford Trust appoints two new trustees, bringing expertise in entrepreneurship, healthcare, and science education to support innovation and engagement.
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Grainger appoints Fiona Muldoon as non-executive director
Grainger plc has appointed Fiona Muldoon as a Non-Executive Director, strengthening its board with significant experience in finance, governance and risk.
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Applications open for £100k NatWest Accelerator Pitch in Oxford
Entrepreneurs can apply for the £100,000 NatWest Accelerator Pitch in Oxford, offering funding, coaching and support for early-stage businesses.
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Oxford’s much-loved Pens Plus stationery retailer put on the market as owners prepare for retirement
Pens Plus, one of Oxford’s best-known specialist stationery retailers, is being offered for sale as its current owners prepare to retire after continuing the shop’s long-established tradition.
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Azets survey shows that 94% of businesses are unprepared for Making Tax Digital
Azets says most businesses remain unprepared for Making Tax Digital, with many uncertain about software, reporting and compliance ahead of April’s changes.
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Bidwells launches investment platform to target specialist real estate market
Bidwells has launched a new regulated investment platform with £1.2 billion in assets, aiming to serve specialist real estate investors through bespoke advisory services, with early transactions already including major London property deals for Trinity College Cambridge.
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Savills announces 11 promotions in Oxford office
Savills has promoted 11 employees within its Oxford office, recognising achievements across departments including planning, urban design, rural management and property consultancy.
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Gardner Leader brings business community together for International Women’s Day
More than 130 professionals gathered at Somerville College for Gardner Leader’s International Women’s Day event, celebrating women’s achievements while supporting Homeless Oxfordshire and raising awareness for the charity’s Her Way Home campaign.
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Rock Solid Rigs launches structured 2026 UK brand ambassador programme
Rock Solid Rigs launches its 2026 UK Brand Ambassador Programme, appointing iRacing drivers to represent the brand competitively while promoting RSR’s precision-engineered plywood sim racing cockpits throughout the UK season.
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Crazy Bear highlights hospitality career growth for National Careers Week
Crazy Bear is celebrating National Careers Week by showcasing the growth opportunities within hospitality, with staff sharing career journeys that highlight progression, training and leadership potential in the thriving UK sector.
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Waylands Volvo Oxford named best retailer in the UK at Volvo Awards
Waylands Volvo Oxford has been crowned National Retailer of the Year at the Volvo Car UK Awards, celebrating outstanding sales performance and premium customer service in a double award-winning evening.