The Great Business Exodus? Why Nearly Half of UK Entrepreneurs Are Ready to Leave Over Tax Hikes

With the Autumn Budget looming, new research reveals that 4 in 10 UK business owners would consider relocating overseas if tax rises continue. But what’s driving this sentiment — and what can businesses do to stay resilient in a shifting tax landscape? The Tax Faculty explores what this means for the future of UK enterprise.

HMRCUK BUSINESSTAX HIKESAUTUMN BUDGET

The Tax Faculty

11/12/20253 min read

The mood among UK business owners is shifting — and fast.

According to the latest Business Owners Sentiment Survey (BOSS) commissioned by S&W, 41% of entrepreneurs say they would consider moving their businesses overseas if the Autumn Budget introduces further tax increases. That’s nearly half of the UK’s most ambitious companies questioning their commitment to home soil.

At first glance, it might sound drastic — but when you dig deeper, the sentiment reveals a deeper unease about the UK’s business environment.

🚨 A Warning Sign for UK Competitiveness

The survey focused on 500 business owners with turnovers above £5 million — the very companies driving innovation, job creation, and investment across the country. Yet, many are now considering whether the UK remains a supportive base for entrepreneurs.

The main culprits?

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
Inheritance Tax (IHT)
And the growing whispers of a potential Wealth Tax

CGT in particular stood out, with nearly 4 in 10 owners (38%) saying they’ve already thought about relocating because of previous increases. It’s not just about one tax policy — it’s about confidence. When business leaders start to feel uncertain about the stability and predictability of the tax landscape, they start to look elsewhere.

🌍 The Global Mindset of Modern Entrepreneurs

Today’s business owners are more mobile than ever. International relocation isn’t just a dream; it’s a practical strategy. The rise of global operations, remote management, and favourable overseas tax regimes makes the option increasingly appealing.

However, relocation comes with its own challenges — from cross-border compliance and exit taxes to residency rules and corporate structuring. What seems like a fresh start can quickly turn complex without the right planning and guidance.

🧭 Getting Your Ducks in a Row

At The Tax Faculty, we’ve seen both sides of this story. Many clients come to us weighing their options — whether to stay and adapt to new tax changes, or explore international alternatives.

For those staying, it’s about strategic tax planning, maximising reliefs, and ensuring your business remains resilient and competitive in the UK market. For those considering relocation, it’s about structure, timing, and compliance — getting every detail right so that a move abroad doesn’t create bigger tax headaches later.

The key takeaway? You don’t have to make decisions in the dark. Whether you plan to remain or relocate, proactive tax strategy is your strongest tool.

Why UK Businesses Are Considering Packing Up and Leaving UK Soil

The findings of the BOSS survey are more than statistics — they’re a snapshot of a national conversation about confidence, competitiveness, and the cost of doing business in Britain.

As the Autumn Budget approaches, one thing is clear: business owners need clarity and stability. Until then, expert advice and forward planning can help you stay ahead of the curve — wherever your business may call home.

📞 If you’re considering your next move, contact The Tax Faculty today.

We’ll help you assess your options, plan your strategy, and protect your business from uncertainty.

🔖 #TheTaxFaculty #TaxUpdate #AutumnBudget #UKTax #CapitalGainsTax #InheritanceTax #WealthTax #BusinessPlanning #InternationalTax #EntrepreneurSupport #TaxStrategy #BusinessGrowth #FinanceInsights #UKBusiness

Final Thoughts

Capital Gains Tax Expertise: The Tax Faculty LLP Managing Partner Charles Tateson Named UK Capital Gains Tax Advisor of the Year 2023

The Finance Monthly Taxation Awards recognises the achievements of tax professionals from around the globe.

Winning such an award is no small feat. It is a reflection of hard work, extensive knowledge, and an ability to navigate the intricacies of the UK tax system.

Read more about Charles and the award here.

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