The past year has seen small businesses and entrepreneurs face a storm of economic pressures. From rising salaries to skyrocketing energy costs, SMBs are facing a major squeeze. Our recent survey revealed that half of small business owners are concerned that one more major cost increase could force them to close their doors.

Small-to-medium business (SMB) owners in the UK are under immense pressure. According to our research, a third say they’ve lost sleep over whether they’ll be able to pay staff – a clear sign of the financial strain many are experiencing. In a climate defined by rising costs, unstable cash flow and economic uncertainty, it’s no surprise that financial worries have become one of the biggest sources of stress for small business leaders. 

According to the British Chambers of Commerce, business confidence across the UK in 2025 has dropped to its lowest level since the aftermath of the Autumn 2022 mini Budget. Compounded by the looming threat of potential tariffs under President Trump’s new leadership, and the upcoming Spring Forecast in the UK, businesses are grappling with complex challenges and significant uncertainty in an already tight economic landscape.

Running a business takes still and commitment. However, not all business leaders have a long- term vision of how to keep both finances and company books in check. This can quickly lead to the downfall of a small business.

“How is it lunchtime already?” A familiar phrase echoing around the office around the midday hours. It often feels like by the time you can finally get through all the admin, emails and calls to make time for value-adding activities, the end of day is nearing. And for SMBs, time can feel even more precious, with thinking time crucial for planning, strategising and innovating in a hotly competitive market.