Small Business (SMB) stories - Page 11

OpenAI will levy a 4% fee on Shopify merchants for sales made via ChatGPT's integrated instant checkout from late January 2026.

20i unveils Twentie, an AI assistant embedded in its hosting platform, offering account-aware support, reports and analytics with unlimited use.

FOMO.ai has launched Hello Gordon, a voice-led AI interview tool that turns expert conversations into multi-format, search-ready content.

Xero rolls out a redesigned, widget-led homepage that surfaces real-time profit, cash flow and tasks in a custom view for each user.

AiDeliv's reverse-auction marketplace is slashing ocean freight for small importers to an average of USD $0.65 per kilo, data shows.

Regulatory uncertainty stalls most payroll projects, yet leaders eye AI tools to cut compliance strain and sharpen workforce planning.

SMEs prioritise AI and face-to-face meetings, but US firms outpace UK peers on dedicated staff and appetite for external AI advice.

Blackpearl ARR surges 114pc to NZD $23.7m in record quarter, as data-led platform strategy puts NZD $30m target firmly in sight.

Avalara inks multi-year AWS deal to push its AI-driven tax tools via AWS Marketplace, promising simpler cloud procurement and billing.

Fingular taps Kilde for SGD $10m credit line to fund Southeast Asia expansion, ramping up Malaysia consumer lending under Tambadana.

Xero broadens its App Store with new global integrations spanning finance, automation, CRM and sector-specific tools for key markets.

Xero begins phased rollout of rebuilt credit notes, offering a switchable new interface, stricter audit controls and manual save behaviour.

Gusto launches a ChatGPT app letting small firms query payroll data, with limited users also able to run pay directly from the chat.

AI platform Emergent raises USD $70m Series B from Khosla Ventures and SoftBank to speed global software creation for non-coders.

Accountants double down on everyday AI tools, as optimism stays high but scepticism, job fears and data security worries all intensify.

Sage taps Augusta Labs' embedded AI teams to turbocharge product development and accelerate its shift to an AI-first software model.

AI app builder Emergent raises USD $70m Series B to deepen European push, add London offices and hiring as revenue soars to USD $50m ARR.

Xero unveils its 2025 Power Lists, spotlighting the most‑connected apps across accounting, payments, retail, trades and professional services.

Adobe folds new generative AI into Acrobat Studio, auto-making slide decks, chat-edited PDFs and podcast-style summaries from documents.

Repair shops once formed the backbone of local high streets. Rising costs, sealed devices and shifting consumer habits are now pushing many to close.