77. What do small businesses think about the new worker’s rights?
Jul 21, 2024
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Deborah Meaden shares insights on small businesses adapting to new worker's rights, her journey from running a family business to investing in startups. She discusses challenges faced by startups, government investments in green initiatives, and her diverse collection of animals.
Deborah Meaden stresses the importance of trusting the entrepreneur behind a business for successful investments.
Meaden highlights the significance of fair employment practices, need for a level playing field, and green investments for sustainability.
Deep dives
Deborah Meaden's Business Journey and Investments
Deborah Meaden discusses her entrepreneurial journey, starting with her first business at age 19. She delves into her experiences with various businesses, including franchising Stefanel, and transitioning to investing in and growing her family business. Meaden shares insights into her investment approach, emphasizing the importance of trusting the entrepreneur behind the business.
Labour Government Policies and Small Business Stability
Meaden reflects on her support for Labour due to the need for change and stable business environments. She discusses her interactions with Labour leader Keir Starmer regarding small business concerns, highlighting the significance of stability, cash flow, and taxation. Meaden emphasizes the importance of assessing intentions and understanding small business needs.
Challenges of Employment Rights and Business Flexibility
Meaden addresses Labour's proposals on employment rights and zero-hour contracts, expressing support for fair employment practices. She emphasizes the need for a level playing field and the ability to reward and retain talented employees. Meaden highlights concerns around potential misuse of rights affecting small businesses and underscores the importance of finding the right balance.
Investing in Green Economy and Sustainable Businesses
Meaden advocates for green investments and sustainable businesses, emphasizing the alignment between protecting the planet and profitability. She discusses shifting investments from fossil fuels to renewables and the growing opportunities in the green economy. Meaden shares her own investments in green initiatives, highlighting the potential for long-term returns and the need for government commitment to sustainable practices.
Robert and Steph are joined by one of the most famous investors in the United Kingdom, Deborah Meaden, to hear about her conversation with Keir Starmer on the future of business, what it’s like to be an investor on Dragon’s Den, and the key criteria she looks for when backing an entrepreneur with a bright idea.