PRCA Statement in Response to the 2025 Autumn Budget

The PRCA has reviewed the 2025 Autumn Budget, noting several measures that will meaningfully affect the PR and communications industry, particularly SMEs and talent development.

For the PR and communications sector, these measures present both opportunities and challenges. The apprenticeship funding is particularly significant for an industry that relies heavily on developing talent and where SMEs form the backbone of the sector. The business rates support will provide relief to agencies facing rising operational costs, while the share options tax relief could help smaller firms attract and retain skilled professionals in a competitive talent market. However, the broader economic uncertainty and potential for hiring freezes across client sectors may impact demand for PR and communications services in the near term. The focus on growth and business competitiveness does signal government recognition of the need to support the professional services sector that underpins much of the UK economy.

Support for Businesses

The PRCA welcomes several business-focused initiatives, particularly funding for apprenticeships in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This gives employers flexibility to select training and qualifications that align with their workforce needs.

After years of significant challenges, businesses will benefit from the focus on enterprise support. Notable measures include tax relief on share options for small businesses and a business rates support package. From April 2026, this package will cap business rates increases for sectors most affected by revaluations, alongside a consultation on making business rates fairer for small businesses.

Additionally, the government has launched an eight-week consultation on the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme ahead of the Budget. This scheme will examine ways to reduce electricity costs for businesses through adjusted business rates multipliers.