4:00pm Thursday 10th September 2009
By Advertising Feature
A recent survey from Business Link in the East of England paints a positive picture about the post-recession future of Hertfordshire’s small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).
Strong survival characteristics are evident among SMEs in Hertfordshire, despite 45 per cent of respondents agreeing that the recent economic slump has provided a hugely challenging market place in which to do business.
More than 60 per cent of Herts-based respondents have revised their priorities to ensure that they are in the strongest possible position to do business, both now and once the recession is over. And as the UK looks toward the return of a stable economy, almost seven in ten businesses will be making adjustments to their business plans in order to remain focused.
As more than 60 per cent of respondents consider the recession to be a short-term hindrance, the consensus is focussing on an imminently brighter economic future. Eight in ten Herts-based respondents have taken positive steps to overcome the recession and feel they are well prepared to grow out of it. As a result of economic uncertainty, a quarter of respondents reveal renewed confidence in their business proposition and heightened efficiency within their place of work.
Pat Smith, chief executive of Business Link in the East of England says: “There’s no doubt that the past 12 months have presented businesses in Hertfordshire with one of the toughest environments of recent times. For many it has been a daily challenge to compete and simply exist.
“Faced with adversity, they have sought advice, re-focussed their business proposition and taken steps to ensure that they are as fit as possible to survive. It’s therefore no surprise that Hertfordshire businesses are motivated, standing strong and ready to grow out of this recession.”
Business Link provides information, practical advice and support to help people to start, run or grow their businesses. Any small business looking for help and advice can contact Business Link on 08457 17 16 15 or visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/east
In a direct response to the current growth aspirations voiced by many businesses, Business Link has introduced a ‘Planning for growth’ workshop to its latest events schedule.
This is a full day session, which has been developed by one of the country’s leading experts in change management, and provides delegates with an inspirational opportunity to make positive changes to their sales and profit margins.
The workshop is offered free of charge to qualifying businesses at a range of venues in and around Hertfordshire.
For full listings visit www.bookevents.org or call 0845 601 1000.
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.watfordobserver.co.uk