survival

Thriving in Uncertainty – Tips for Growth in Troubled Times

October 5, 2011 Planning

It’s an old cliché that the Chinese pictogram for crisis combines two symbols: danger and opportunity. But there is some truth to the idea that tough times can also create opportunities. With smart thinking, the right technology and an entrepreneurial attitude to risk, growing businesses can turn the current situation on its head. Entrepreneurs are more nimble A recent HP survey of 1,000 IT decision-makers in businesses with 1 – 50 employees revealed that entrepreneurs are already taking this approach. Britain’s small businesses are doing surprisingly well. More than four out of five saw their business stay the same size or grow over the last year. The vast majority (90 percent) are optimistic about the future, at least when they look three to five years ahead. Bri... »

Rise in Fraud Threatens Small Business says KPMG

July 24, 2011 News

Fraud against UK businesses is on the rise ― that is the warning from KPMG after its research highlighted that the cost of fraud against commercial organisations exceeded £64 million in the first six months of this year. The report found that the cost of fraudulent activity against public and private sector organisations increased by a third in the first six months of 2011 on the same period in 2010. KPMG added that while big businesses bore the brunt of the cost of fraud against commercial organisations, it could also cripple small firms. “Although it’s just as prevalent in larger organisations, small and medium-sized businesses are more likely to suffer dire consequences as a result.” said KPMG UK forensic partner Hitesh Patel. “For small companies, fr... »

Tesco Expansion Will Threaten Small Shops

May 5, 2010 News

Supermarket Tesco’s proposed expansion in the wake of record profits is a major threat to small independent shops, the Rural Shops Alliance (RSA) has warned. The RSA, which represents independent retailers, appealed for “more fairness” in the grocery sector, and urged the Government to bring in new measures to curb the supermarket’s expansion. The Alliance’s appeal come shortly after Tesco posted record annual profits of £3.4 billion ― a growth of ten per cent on last year’s figures. The supermarket chain also recently stated its intention to increase its store development programme by 40% compared with last year. The RSA’s proposals include more rigorous planning laws to prevent big operators “overriding” local opinion and ... »