By Jennifer Sieg Business activity for UK small and medium enterprises (SMEs) has reached its highest since May of last year, the latest data shows, but one particular challenge remains clear. The Natwest SME PMI Business Activity Index recorded a score of 51.2 in December, a slight uptick from 50.7 the month prior, and the highest recording in seven months. While this comes as a positive sign for UK businesses – along with a rise in consumer spending and a previous pause of interest rate hikes – SMEs are beginning to report sustainable sacrifices to save on costs. Rising business costs, one o…