The year is zipping past again.  Everyone I speak to agrees, so let’s pause for breath for a moment.

The end of April came with the news that the UK, as many had feared, had slipped back into recession.  However, I have to be honest and say I prefer the thought that we are “bumping along the bottom”.  It’s tough out there and it’s going to continue to be tough for the foreseeable future.  However, “it is what it is” and I firmly believe that we need to maintain focus and keep going because what’s the alternative?  Standing still just isn’t an option.

We have some good news though.  We are delighted to announce that we have opened a new office in Godalming, Surrey.  Statistics on SMEs in the South East area, provided by the Federation of Small Business, confirm that the South East has the second largest number of SMEs (after London), with 745,000. Combine this with London and the result is that a third of all businesses are based here.   Given that one of our mantras is that we like to be geographically close to our clients, this is a strategic move for us

Help and support are what businesses want and need at the moment and we are here to provide that assistance!  Although there are reports of a drop in the demand for loans, the banks are continuing to tighten up credit which highlights that we are still very much in the midst of a banking crisis.  And all of this is at a time when businesses are feeling the squeeze with increased prices for fuel and transport costs, and raw materials etc.  Presenting a business plan in respect of a loan request to a bank very much needs to be handled in the right way to demonstrate a business’ track record, its future projections and the calibre and commitment of its management.  A banker I was listening to once cited the 3 ‘C’s that he looks for in a business and its management team; capital, character and capability.  It’s a very succinct summary and one which I use now when discussing new projects with clients – it’s worth revisiting every now and again.

So, are you embarking on a new project despite the crisis?  What has been your experience this year?