Shortly after the latest unemployment figures were announced for the quarter to October, Thomas Cook Group Plc has now revealed that it is planning to axe 1000 jobs and close 200 stores. With unemployment figures totaling 2.62 million - the highest since 1994, the future seems even more uncertain with analysts predicting that this situation will worsen in the next year. Our view is that more businesses will review their full time employment models, changing in preference to a model that gives them flexibility without the onerous costs of employment.

 

For an informal discussion to see where we can take on the challenges of the coming months together and keep your business thriving, contact our team at e-FM or simply reply to this newsletter. If you know someone who might need to rethink their  recruitment strategy in readiness for the new year or take on a more strategic approach to business planning, please forward this on.

 

 

 

 

Why not join the 16 finance professionals who have made this commitment and now run their own financial management business?

Network Website:

0845 129 9900/ 01582 516300

Greetings! ,

You could give someone a treat this Christmas. Find out how you can nominate a contact for a discounted financial management service and also benefit yourself from nominating them too. Both you and your recommended contact will also be eligible for a free financial health review in February 2012, if the contact becomes a client. Start the new year by inoculating yourself against the harsh effects of a potentially challenging 2012!

 

In November, the Prime Minister announced a new growth package to help SMEs as they struggle with significant cashflow problems which seem to worsen as the economy gets harsher. While some question the impact this will have on an already suffering and overburdened industry, SMEs need to focus on managing cash better in the challenging months ahead, if not on acquiring new funding. Efficient cashflow management goes beyond improving a credit control process or debt management process, it could involve automating some financial management processes or utilising the skills of a financial management expert to improve efficiency and cashflow. If you are concerned about this, take action now.

 

 

Traditional businesses are aware of the need to incorporate the internet into their overall strategy. The desired approach should seek to retain the strengths of the existing core business whilst using the internet to enhance value.

Find Out How This Model Can Benefit Your Business

The harsh economic climate has not made it any easier for small companies to deal with fluctuating demand for products and services as well as unplanned absences. In addition to parental leave entitlements which were reviewed this year, employers have to deal with a multitude of challenges from increased employment law obligations, new agency workers regulations, reduction in credit lines, possible changes to business rates, cash flow problems and other limited resources.

The approaching new year provides an opportunity to critically re-assess your business, your temporary and permanent staffing needs or gaps, processes and contracts that need to be reviewed and negotiated and warning signs that need to be explored. For professional maternity, paternity and sickness cover, or specialist project work, speak to us about your interim management needs.

To view the profile and contact details of our regional finance specialists and request a service, please click on a link below:

Thank you for your support in 2011.