The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is introducing the most sweeping changes to its membership since it was founded in 1974.

The transformation programme sees the introduction of a range of innovative new joining categories, as well as new and additional benefits.

The FSB says it is the next phase in a vast rebranding exercise, which began in 2015, to ensure its "stronghold as the most relevant, significant and accessible business organisation."

Dave Stallon, FSB commercial director (pictured), said: "When FSB was founded in 1974, we adopted the Ford maxim of 'you can have any colour you like as long as it's black'. We had one membership category, delivering the same benefits to all.

"That model worked for over 40 years, but we recognise that today's landscape is fast-changing and we want to offer different options to different business owners, as well as to those who are thinking about starting a business, to help them achieve their ambitions."

FSB Business Creation and FSB Business Connect (free to join) are two new joining categories launching on 20 March which will sit alongside the original, but newly re-branded FSB Business Essentials.

A further joining category, FSB Business Plus, is due to launch later in the year, and a new small business e-commerce platform, FSB Marketplace, is planned to be rolled out in the Spring.

Mr Stallon added: "There are huge opportunities for both new and existing smaller businesses at this time, and we're committed to assisting the nation in harnessing these. Advances in tech, manufacturing techniques, infrastructure changes, exciting new exporting opportunities, consumer diversification and demand for personalisation, all bring thrilling new prospects."

FSB Connect focuses on an expert networking offer; FSB Business Creation is designed to help people plan and launch a business; FSB Business Essentials includes a range of benefits and exclusive discounts to help businesses grow.

Additional new benefits that are being added to the FSB Business Essentials package include cyber protection, enhanced legal insurance cover up to £100,000 and PR and crisis management support. These join a whole host of other, existing exclusive benefits and discounted products, from business banking to auto-enrolment.