📅 October 2025

Running a business is never without challenges — but in an unpredictable economy, it’s even more important to stay flexible, focused, and financially strong.

Whether you’re a small business owner, a sole trader, or managing a growing team, the goal is simple: build a business that can handle uncertainty and still thrive.

Here’s how you can strengthen your business for whatever comes next 👇

When times are tough, reviewing your costs is essential — but slashing spending too aggressively can harm your long-term success.

Instead, take a strategic approach:
✅ Review your regular subscriptions and software costs — cancel what you don’t use.
✅ Negotiate with suppliers for better terms or bulk discounts.
✅ Look at energy, insurance, and finance contracts — are you still getting the best deal?
✅ Outsource non-core tasks (like payroll or admin) instead of hiring additional staff.

💡 Tip: Focus on value, not just price — the cheapest option isn’t always the most efficient.

Cash is king — especially in uncertain times.
Aim to keep at least three to six months’ worth of expenses in reserve to weather slow periods or unexpected costs.

A few ways to strengthen your cash position:
💷 Chase overdue invoices quickly and professionally.
💳 Offer early payment discounts to improve cash inflow.
🪙 Set up a dedicated “emergency fund” account for your business.

If cash flow is tight, consider setting up a rolling 12-month cash flow forecast — it’ll help you spot problems early and plan accordingly.

Inflation, rising supplier costs, and higher wages can quietly eat into your profits.
Regularly review your pricing strategy to make sure you’re maintaining healthy margins.

Ask yourself:

• Have my costs increased in the past 6–12 months?

• Am I still pricing competitively while maintaining profitability?

💡 Even a small 3–5% price adjustment can make a big difference to your bottom line.

If all your income comes from one or two clients or products, your business could be at risk.
Look for ways to diversify your revenue, such as:

• Offering new services or digital options

• Expanding into nearby markets (like Cardiff and Rhondda businesses have successfully done)

• Adding subscription or maintenance-based income to smooth cash flow

A diversified business is much better equipped to handle sudden market changes.

In uncertain times, relationships are everything.
Loyal clients and a motivated team can make the difference between surviving and thriving.

✅ Communicate regularly with your clients — understand their challenges and how you can help.
✅ Keep your team informed and supported — even small morale boosts matter.
✅ Build your local network — partnerships within your community often lead to new opportunities.

No one can predict the future, but resilient businesses plan for multiple scenarios.
Review your forecasts every few months and adjust quickly when things change.

💡 Use your accountant (that’s us!) to help test different “what if” scenarios — for example:

• What if sales drop by 20%?

• What if interest rates rise again?

• What if you hire a new team member next quarter?

Being proactive — not reactive — is what resilience is all about.

The UK economy may be unpredictable, but your business doesn’t have to be.
With careful planning, disciplined cash management, and strong local connections, you can build a business that stands firm no matter what the market throws your way.

💬 At Llewellyns Chartered Certified Accountants, we help small and growing businesses plan with confidence — from cash flow forecasting to long-term strategy.

📞 01443 303 230

📞 02920 624 230
📧 info@llewellyns.co.uk