WITH the October Brexit deadline drawing close and the UK’s future relationship with the EU still unclear, business confidence is rather subdued but firms are making their own plans for no deal rather than waiting for politicians, according to new research by financial and business advisers Grant Thornton.
The survey of mid-sized firms in the UK, including a proportion across the East of England, revealed confidence levels rose to 13 per cent compared to 10% in the latter half of 2018 – well below the 40 per cent recorded prior to the EU referendum in June 2016.
As a result, business investment has fallen with just six per cent of firms questioned planning to increase expenditure in new buildings compared to 8% last year, the lowest level since 2010. Only 15 per cent of firms expect to invest in plant and machinery in contrast to 19% in 2018, suggesting businesses are putting off key decisions until the Brexit outcome becomes clearer.
However, investment in technology remains healthier, with 38 per cent of companies expecting to increase spend in this area (compared to 33 per cent in 2018) as businesses look for new opportunities to maximise efficiency, improve productivity and cut costs.
Mike Hughes from Grant Thornton’s Northampton office said: “With a ‘no deal’ Brexit looking more likely than ever, many businesses are preparing for this outcome as waiting for politicians to reach an agreement is no longer an option for most. This is particularly true in sectors with supply chains which rely on planning and scheduling months in advance.”
The survey also found that 54 per cent of businesses see uncertainty as their biggest constraint. However, growth prospects remain stable with over half (52 per cent) recording revenue growth above five per cent over the past 12 months and almost a third (30 per cent) increasing their staff levels by more than five per cent during the same period. This suggests businesses have started to adapt to the uncertainty, focusing on their core strengths and looking for diversification opportunities.
Mike added: “The advice for businesses remains the same. Companies need to ensure they have the systems and capabilities in place to adapt to any challenges which emerge and seize the opportunities which arise. This includes getting ‘match fit’ by focussing on cashflow, retaining and attracting talent and removing unnecessary costs.
“Alongside this, businesses should be reviewing and updating their contingency plans for a ‘no deal’ outcome – the most likely scenario. With proper planning in place, the outlook for businesses can remain positive, even if there are bumps in the road ahead. We’ve been helping companies of all sizes and sectors to identify the opportunities Brexit can bring, as well as the risks.”