Are you ready for the rise of Reform?
By Tom Bradley – Director
Whether you like it or not, Reform UK is reshaping the political map and the national conversation. From policy to public sentiment, from media language to grassroots dynamics, this is a movement with real cut-through and unpredictable consequences.
If you work in public affairs, communications, policy or delivery, you need to know what Reform UK means for your organisation. Our latest Insights Report charts the rise of Reform UK, plots where they are likely to do well in May 2026, looks at how they operate and flags the risks and opportunities for businesses and organisations operating across the UK.
Just over a year ago, Reform UK made political history, winning five seats in Westminster. That election marked a turning point for the party and for UK politics, as they firmly moved from protest movement to serious political player.
And, in the local elections of May this year, Reform UK built on that platform, exceeding expectations and winning both the popular vote and the most seats of those up for grabs. The party took control of councils up and down the country, from Durham and Doncaster to Kent and Cornwall.
Looking ahead to next year’s English Mayoral elections and Welsh and Scottish parliamentary elections, our Cavendish Seat Projector shows the party’s winning streak isn’t going to end anytime soon. Reform UK are likely to gain 5 of the 6 new mayoralties up for grabs in May, and will likely be the second largest party in Wales and Scotland.
It’s time to get ready for Reform
Crucial to Reform UK’s success is the machine behind the movement. Reform UK is not just another political party – it is a political movement. It’s critical that businesses and organisations understand how they work and how you could be impacted.
Reform UK are re-writing the political narrative in the UK, securing shifts in policy that far outweigh their Westminster representation. But, further to this, we’ve seen how the Reform ecosystem can turn the tide of public opinion, making everyday business decisions key political battlegrounds. And some brands have already been feeling the heat… Whether it’s Natwest’s decision to debank Nigel Farage, Jaguar Land Rover’s recent rebrand, or National Grid’s onshore energy infrastructure proposals – all have fallen victim to Reform’s modus operandi and their business has been directly impacted as a result.
For brands operating in the UK, it’s imperative that you understand how the landscape has shifted. Cavendish are able to support with insight and intelligence, digital influence and campaigns, strategic engagement, as well as brand positioning and advisory services. The question now is – are YOU ready for Reform? Get in touch today or download our report here.
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