Andrew McRae

FSB was set up in September 1974, in response to unfair increases in national insurance for the self-employed introduced by the UK Government, which were later repealed after a successful campaign. In the years since, it has gone on to become the largest direct business membership organisation in the UK.

The organisation’s landmark anniversary will be celebrated with a members’ business debate in the Scottish Parliament on a motion tabled by Audrey Nicoll, MSP for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine, and a proud grocers’ daughter.

For the last five decades, FSB has offered vital non-profit, non-party-political business services, including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful advocating voice to government at all levels, as part of its aim to achieve changes for the 5.5 million small businesses and the self-employed across the UK.

Small businesses in Scotland now make up almost the entirety of the economy (98%). These 335,000 businesses employ 900,000 people and turn over £82 billion annually.

Audrey Nicoll MSP said: “Scotland’s small businesses are the backbone of our economy and vital to the prosperity of local communities, including here in Aberdeen South and North Kincardine.

“For 50 years, the Federation of Small Businesses has been an invaluable resource, equipping its members with the tools, support and knowledge to thrive while being a strong advocate for positive change within government.

“As we mark this important milestone, I congratulate FSB on their 50th anniversary and I look forward to their continued contributions to small businesses, both here in Aberdeen South and North Kincardine and across Scotland, for years to come.”

Andrew McRae, FSB Scotland policy chair, said: “Our 50th anniversary offers a reason to celebrate and be proud of what we have achieved collectively. Most importantly, it’s a time to pay tribute to the small businesses and self-employed people who make up and drive the economy in Scotland and across the UK.

“While focus can often be on chasing ‘new’ investment and companies, we must not lose sight of the fantastic businesses we already have. They are innovative, diverse and resilient.

“Fifty years on from the formation of FSB, small businesses and the self-employed are not without their challenges. The last few years, in particular, have truly tested their resilience, through the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living and cost of doing business crises.

“Our campaigning work continues and is as vital as ever today. Our latest figures show confidence among small businesses has slipped back into negative territory, showing the importance of the Scottish Government taking action to support our small businesses and bolster their resilience.

“These include measures such as maintaining the Small Business Bonus Scheme at its current thresholds as a minimum. The SBBS is frequently described as a “lifeline” by FSB Scotland members, allowing them to do things like employ a local person in their business.

“We are also campaigning for action to tackle late payments and the cumulative impact of regulations on small businesses, as well as pushing government at all levels to maximise the opportunities afforded for further public procurement reform in the Community Wealth Building Bill.”