Page 6 | 03 - 09 May 2017 Business <strong>Matters</strong> Firms take stock in turbulent times CONFIDENCE among London’s small firms has risen to the highest level in over a year despite spiralling business costs, according to the latest Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) London Small Business Index (LSBI). The LSBI stands at 24 in Q1 2017, the highest figure since Q4 2015, and up considerably from the -3.4 recorded after the EU referendum. The recovery in the headline SBI comes despite a surge in the price of doing business; 62% have seen an overall increase in the cost of running their operations in the past quarter compared to 2% who have seen a decrease. Positively, nearly a half of businesses (48%) expect gross profits to increase in the coming three months, compared to a fifth (20%) who expect them to fall. The average FSB employer will face £2,600 in additional employment costs over the coming year as a result of the rise in the National Living Wage, resulting National Insurance contributions, and auto-enrolment. These cost pressures are being exacerbated by rising inflation. The Consumer Price Index rose above the Bank of England’s 2% target to 2.3% in March. It means firms are struggling with increased prices when buying supplies, products and services, while the rise in inflation will also impact other bills, such as business rates. Sue Terpilowski OBE, London policy chair for the FSB, said: “The impacts of the spiralling cost of doing business are starting to show. “The percentage of businesses seeking to grow in the next 12 months, although slightly up on last quarter, remains below the levels seen two or three years ago. Higher numbers of businesses also report they plan to downsize or close over the next year.” A BOUTIQUE corporate hospitality company has reimagined London in the 22nd century, creating images of how the Capital could look in 2117. Team Tactics, based on <strong>City</strong> Road just north of Old Street Tube station, has transformed London into a city of the future, featuring everything from hovering transport, a flying Gherkin and a digital Big Ben. The pictures were inspired by sci-fi films such as Blade Runner and The Fifth Element. The images were commissioned to coincide with the launch of Team Tactics’ new competitive team building activity, Game of Zones. Inspired by the classic ’90s gameshow The Crystal Maze, the new activity sees participants race around the Capital across four zones – Futuristic, Medieval, Industrial and Ocean – completing interactive challenges. Experience Just like the Richard O’Brien fan-favourite, challenges are separated into four types: skill, physical, mental and mystery, and are a closely guarded secret to ensure guests experience the maximum test of their abilities. Managing director at Team Tactics, Tina Benson, said: “The images were really amazing for us, it’s so interesting to see how advanced we might be in 100 years’ time, especially considering how far we’ve already come. “The next century is destined to be one of the most technologically groundbreaking in human history and the blend of old and new will be interesting to see in London and cities across the world. “Game of Zones is one of the biggest things we’ve done. We know how many people loved The Crystal Maze and it’s great to be able to take that concept and turn it into something that can span an entire city. “With the relaunch of the TV series we’re CITYMATTERS.LONDON London transformed for Game of Zones London’s future is now: thanks to Team Tactics looking forward to challenging fans young and old.” Game of Zones joins Team Tactics’ roster of corporate away-day packages and events that have been enjoyed by clients including Adidas, Facebook, Coca-Cola and Google. Prices vary depending on the number of participants and duration of the event. teamtactics.co.uk