Survey highlights confidence among SMEs for 2015

A new poll indicates that the majority of small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) in the UK are feeling confident about what’s to come in 2015.

The survey from OnePoll and commissioned by Liberis, a small business fund company, found that 68 per cent of SMEs are confident in regards to their business development in the coming year.

The poll saw 1,000 small and medium sized firms answer questions on the future of their company.

However, while confidence was high, and a further 56 per cent of respondents expected growth in the new year, a worrying 32 per cent – almost a third – said that they expect a decline in business. Common concerns for businesses were cash-flow problems, increasing sales and growing costs lowering profits.

Liberis CEO Paul Mildenstein explained: "It's good to see such a widespread level of confidence and expectations of growth, but it is still tough trading for a considerable number of small businesses who are concerned about cash flow and costs and need funding to help with every day expenses to see them through."

While 40 per cent of firms replied that they would be looking for outside funding to further their business in 2015, three quarters of that figure were confident that they would successfully obtain the funds required.

The bank was seen as the most favourable place to go for future investment, with half of businesses seeking funding there, and 31 per cent will search out alternative funding providers.

Buying a business is often viewed as a fast track route to growth. Read our article on Raising Finance For An Acquisition for ideas on how you could fund your next business purchase.

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