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Welcome to Series 4, Episode 1 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode, Corporate Solicitors Heather Stewart and Conor Stacey from Moorcrofts’ Corporate Team discuss the recent changes to Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) schemes announced in the 2025 Autumn Budget and what they mean for growing businesses. They explore how these changes could make EMI schemes accessible to a wider range of companies and explain what businesses with existing EMI arrangements need to be aware of. They cover: The key changes to EMI Schemes announced in the 2025 Autumn BudgetIncreases to employee and gross asset limits and what this means for eligibilityChanges to the company-wide share option limitThe extension of the EMI option exercise period from 10 to 15 years, including potential retrospective applicationUpdates to HMRC notification and reporting requirementsTune in to understand how these changes could impact your business and how EMI schemes can be used to attract and retain talent as your company scales.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 10 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast In this episode, Employment Solicitor Leah Waller is joined by Jen Smith, owner and founder of The Curious Mentor, to explore how businesses can foster truly neuroinclusive workplaces and environments where everyone can bring their best self to work. Jen and her team at The Curious Mentor provide coaching, mentoring, accessibility workplace assessments, psychometric analysis, team building, accessibility audits, and training — all aimed at helping organisations become more inclusive, accessible, and effective. As a disabled and neurodiverse woman, Jen brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation. She’s also involved in The Lilac Review, a government-backed initiative focused on improving opportunities for disabled and neurodiverse people in entrepreneurship and employment. Together, Leah and Jen explore the topic of neuroinclusion and discuss how employers can ensure their people are supported to bring their best selves to work. They cover: The rise in employment tribunal cases involving neurodiversity and what this means for employers.Why increased awareness and identification are influencing how neurodiversity is understood in the workplace.The limitations of a “one adjustment fits all” approach and why personalisation matters.Practical steps and quick wins employers can take to create more inclusive, supportive environments.The importance of the human element, having open, honest conversations to understand individual needs.The importance of proactively offering adjustments rather than waiting for employees to ask for help.Tune in to gain insight into how neuroinclusive practices can benefit both individuals and organisations, fostering more engaged, productive, and empowered teams.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 9 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast In this episode, Senior Commercial Property Solicitor Sharan Uppal is joined by Helen Shellabear, Managing Director of Shellwin Real Estate — a family-owned, private property company with a portfolio of commercial office and industrial properties in Buckinghamshire. Together, they explore the topic of Green Lease provisions in commercial Leases, discussing how landlords and tenants can work together to improve the environmental performance of commercial buildings. They cover: The motivations behind introducing green lease provisions.The types of green obligations landlords are incorporating into leases.How landlords are implementing and enforcing these provisions in practice.Ways to encourage tenants to engage in sustainability initiatives and environmental performance improvements.Whether the cost of energy efficiency improvements should fall to landlords, tenants, or be shared collaboratively.The potential for a consistent, standardised approach to green lease obligations across the property industry.Tune in to gain insight into how environmental considerations are reshaping commercial leasing and what this means for both landlords and tenants.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 8 of the Moorcrofts Means Business podcast. In this episode, Corporate Partners Will Pearce and Barry Maytum explore the key considerations business owners should be aware of when preparing for a sale. Drawing on their extensive experience, they outline the practical steps to help you plan effectively and achieve the best possible outcome. They discuss: Building the right support team – from lawyers and tax advisers to corporate finance specialists and insurance brokers.Committing time to the sale process – understanding the dedication required for a successful transaction.Preparation and pre-sale vendor due diligence – why getting your house in order early pays off.Practical legal steps – ensuring your business is legally ready for scrutiny.Structuring the deal – exploring the frameworks that best suit your business and goals.Employee incentivisation options – aligning your team’s interests with the sale.Defining your objectives – clarifying what you want to achieve from the sale and planning for succession.Whether you’re actively considering a sale or just starting to explore your options, this episode provides a clear and practical overview of what to expect and how to get started the right way.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 7 of the Moorcrofts Means Business podcast. In this episode, Corporate Partners Will Pearce and Barry Maytum explore the key considerations when approaching business growth through mergers, acquisitions, or purchasing another company. They cover: The legal process involved in acquisitions and mergersUnderstanding your starting point and objectives — are you looking for a product, service, IP, key people, or a balance sheet opportunity?The benefits of engaging advisers early and assembling the right professional teamThe different types of acquisitions and what they mean in practiceFunding options available and how they work in real-world scenariosPracticalities — assessing whether your business is ready, and how to manage the business post-acquisition to ensure smooth integration, cultural alignment, and long-term successWhether you're actively exploring growth opportunities or just starting to consider the possibilities, this episode provides a practical overview of what to expect and how to get started the right way.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 6 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode, Lindsey Abbott, Employment Partner at Moorcrofts, is joined by Colin Barnett, Founder of CB Talent Consulting, to explore the ever-evolving world of talent, from recruitment and retention to AI’s growing role in the workplace. Topics covered include: Current recruitment market trends post-COVIDThe impact of flexible and hybrid working on talent strategiesRedundancies and employer responsibilitiesKey challenges facing employers in 2025AI in recruitment — what’s hype vs. what’s helpfulThe importance of employer brandingDiversity, equity and inclusion in hiring and retentionEnhancing the candidate experience and onboarding processWhy the first 100 days of employment matterHow SMEs can compete with larger companies for top talentWhether you're a business owner, HR professional, or manager involved in hiring, this episode offers actionable takeaways to help you build stronger, more resilient teams in the age of digital transformation and shifting employee expectations. Further Resources: Moorcrofts https://moorcrofts.com/blog/ CB Talent Consulting https://cbtalentconsulting.co.uk/

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 5 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode, Heather Stewart and Jai Nathwani from Moorcrofts’ Corporate Team explore Employee Share Schemes - what they are, why they matter, and how they can benefit your business.  The discussion focuses on aligning employee interests with company performance, attracting and retaining talent, and the strategic value of share ownership in boosting productivity and engagement. Topics covered include: What is an employee share scheme?Benefits of implementing a share schemeWhy these schemes are becoming more popularTax-advantaged vs. non-tax-advantaged schemesKey considerations before setting up a schemeOverview of:EMI (Enterprise Management Incentive) SchemesCompany Share Option Plans (CSOPs)Save As You Earn (SAYE) SchemesShare Incentive Plans (SIPs)Why a non-tax-advantaged scheme might still be right for your businessWhether you're a startup, scale-up, or established business, this episode provides essential insights into the different types of employee share schemes available in the UK and the key considerations before implementing one.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 4 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode, Julia Ferguson, Partner and Head of Commercial Property at Moorcrofts, is joined by Steve Page, Head of GreenFiT at Savills, to discuss the pressing topic of environmental performance in commercial real estate, with a particular focus on the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).  As climate change takes centre stage, businesses are under growing pressure to demonstrate strong ESG credentials - especially across their supply chains. With around 20% of the UK’s carbon emissions coming from the built environment, and 70% of UK office space currently below the likely required EPC rating of B by 2030, it's clear the real estate sector has a pivotal role to play in achieving net zero. But while many businesses are taking steps to reduce operational emissions, the challenge of decarbonising commercial buildings - especially around who pays and how improvements are delivered - remains complex. Julia and Steve discuss: The current EPC regime and what reforms may be comingThe action needed to address anticipated increases in EPC rating requirementsFunding challenges and cost-sharing issuesWhy collaboration is essential for meaningful energy improvementsWhether you're a landlord, tenant, investor, or advisor, this episode offers clear insights into navigating sustainability in real estate. Further Resources: Moorcrofts Blog - MEES Update 2025: Stricter Rules, Higher Standards and Key Deadlines Savills Offices EPC Factsheet EPC Portfolio Summary

In this episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business podcast, Commercial and Technology Partner Tim Astley is joined by Senior Associate, Usha Guness to discuss some of the key risks of using generative AI and some potential mitigations and solutions.  They cover: Intellectual Property risks from using existing IP used and IP ownership issues of AI produced workConfidentiality and data securityPrivacy and data protectionBias in training dataSummary of AI regulation and what businesses need to knowThis episode is packed with practical advice and insights to help businesses navigate risks and mitigations of using generative AI.

Welcome to Series 3, Episode 2 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode, Senior Associate Adam Forder from Moorcrofts' Corporate Team is joined by Tom Biggs and Jordan Wood from Wellers Accountants to explore the world of SEIS and EIS investment schemes. Together, they discuss: What is SEIS/EIS?Key differences between SEIS and EISInvestment criteria:For companies: Eligibility requirements and conditions throughout the minimum holding periodFor investors: Who qualifies and what restrictions applyWays to reduce risk and whether a shareholders’ agreement or bespoke articles can helpTax relief rules and how to maximise benefitsWhat happens if you sell your shares too early?Common pitfalls and key considerations for SEIS/EIS investmentsThis episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate SEIS/EIS successfully.

Welcome to the first episode of Series 3 of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast!  In this episode, Corporate Partner Will Pearce is joined by Senior Corporate Solicitor Adam Forder, as they break down the essentials of investment agreements. Whether you're a company founder or an investor, this episode provides a clear, concise overview of key topics, including investment structures, governance rights, and the critical elements every investment agreement should contain. Will and Adam explore the various investment structures, such as ordinary and preferred shares, loan notes, and convertible securities, and discuss how each works.  They explain why an investment agreement is essential for protecting the interests of both investors and company founders, offering insights on how to negotiate the best terms for both parties, while emphasising how a well-crafted agreement can reduce risks, prevent disputes, and lay the groundwork for a successful partnership. If you’re involved in or considering investment opportunities, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to understand the legal landscape and make informed decisions about your investment agreement.

Welcome to another episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast!  In this episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business podcast, Corporate Partner Will Pearce is joined by Commercial Property Julia Ferguson to discuss the topic of due diligence in the commercial property space.  Key questions addressed: What are the essential elements of due diligence when evaluating commercial property?How should a company prepare its property documentation for a due diligence review?How do you assess the legal and regulatory compliance of a commercial property?What role does the property's physical condition and maintenance history play in due diligence?This episode is packed with practical advice and insights to help businesses navigate due diligence confidently, whether buying, selling, or managing commercial property.

Welcome to another episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business podcast, Corporate Partner Will Pearce is joined by Employment Partner Lindsey Abbott to discuss due diligence in employment when buying or selling a company. They explore the key considerations and practical steps businesses should take when reviewing employment practices as part of a business acquisition or sale. Key discussion points include: What is employment due diligence? Key areas to scrutinise during the due diligence process when buying or selling a company.Assessing compliance: How to evaluate a company’s compliance with employment laws and regulations and identify common compliance issues.Employee contracts and agreements: Key clauses and terms to review in employee contracts to avoid legal surprises.Workplace culture: How to assess a company’s workplace culture and employee satisfaction during due diligence, and why it matters for a successful transaction.Employee benefits and compensation: Key factors to examine regarding employee benefits and compensation structures, and how discrepancies can impact a transaction.Diversity, equity, and inclusion: Why reviewing diversity, equity, and inclusion practices is crucial in the due diligence process, and how to ensure alignment with company values.Past disputes and legal actions: Key considerations for reviewing past employment disputes and how they can affect the due diligence process.Recruitment and retention strategies: Evaluating a company’s recruitment and retention strategies and their importance during due diligence.Preparing documentation: Best practices for preparing and presenting employment documentation for due diligence reviews.Proactive compliance and risk management: Steps companies can take to ensure robust employment practices and mitigate risks before a sale or acquisition.Tune in to this episode for expert guidance on employment due diligence during the buying and selling process. Whether you're preparing for an acquisition, sale, or simply looking to ensure your employment practices are in top shape, this episode offers key insights to help you navigate potential risks and ensure a smooth transaction.

Welcome to another episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business podcast, Corporate Partner Will Pearce is joined by Tech and Commercial Partner Tim Astley to discuss the topic of due diligence in the commercial and tech space. Key discussion points include: Mitigating risks and uncovering potential issues: How due diligence plays a pivotal role in protecting businesses by identifying risks before they escalate.Technology-specific due diligence: The unique considerations when dealing with technology contracts and transactions, and why having tech specialists on board is essential.Commercial contracts: What to look for in customer and supplier contracts, and how tech contracts differ.Data protection in contracts: How data protection works in practice, what the risks are if it’s overlooked, and the implications of a breach.Red flags in due diligence: Identifying early warning signs and understanding when to explore contract details further to avoid potential pitfalls.Practical steps: Practical steps you can do to prepare for a sale.Tune in to gain valuable insights into how due diligence protects companies in the tech and commercial landscape, and practical steps to ensure your business is fully prepared for both sale and purchase.

Welcome to another episode of the Moorcrofts Means Business Podcast! In this episode, members of our corporate team, Adam Forder and Heather Stewart, explore the intricate world of shareholder relationships.  They cover several critical questions:  What governs shareholder relations in a company? What happens if you fall out with another shareholder? Is it really necessary to create a formal shareholders’ agreement? Does having a shareholders’ agreement mean I don’t trust my business partner? At what point should you consider formalising shareholder relations, and is it now too late? Adam and Heather discuss these questions and much more. Key topics covered: Understanding Shareholder Relationships:Explanation of the structure and importance of maintaining good shareholder relationships for long-term stability and growth.The Companies Act 2006:Overview of the key legislation governing company law in the UK.Principle of majority rule and types of shareholder resolutions.Exception to majority rule: unfair prejudice and its implications.Articles of Association:Definition and role of the articles of association in regulating a company's internal affairs.Differences between model and bespoke articles.Importance of tailoring articles to meet the company’s specific needs.Shareholders' Agreement:The purpose of a shareholders' agreement and how it complements the articles of association.Benefits of a well-drafted shareholders' agreement in managing relationships and expectations among shareholders.Real-life case study illustrating the importance of having a shareholders’ agreement.Drafting a Shareholders' Agreement:Key considerations and typical contents of a shareholders' agreement:Business management and future-proofing.Share matters and rights/obligations of shareholders.Dispute resolution mechanisms and founder protections.Timing for creating a shareholders’ agreement: ideally at incorporation, but possible at any time before an issue arises.This episode offers valuable guidance to help you navigate shareholder relationships with confidence, whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your existing processes.