Earlier this year we hosted our first Insider Media roundtable, where senior business leaders from some of the top performing SMEs in Yorkshire came together to discuss growth strategies, market barriers and opportunities for the future.
It was great to welcome a diverse range of business leaders to our Wakefield office including:
- Peter Dixon, Director, Dudleys Consulting Engineers
- Chris Houston, Managing Director, Tadwell
- Jon Newall, Founder and CEO, Prosura
- Paul Mitchell, Chairman, The Harris Partnership
- Sarah Beaumont, Partnerships and Marketing Director, Widd Signs
- Abby Cook, Founder, Made By Bramble
- Joseph Fitzpatrick, Managing Director, PPS Essentials
- Andy Yates, Chief Operations Officer, Arc Building Solutions
Led by Deputy Editor of Insider Media Fiona Haran, the discussions covered key talking points among SME’s from corporation tax and changes to inheritance tax, planning regulations and the hurdles companies are facing through to how businesses are focusing on rethinking their working environment to create better and more engaging spaces for their teams.
There were also some insightful conversations about diversification, how AI can support your business, the benefits of external investments along with the support that’s available for start-ups.
Some of the key takeaways:
- Many SMEs remain resilient but are ‘treading water’ in the current climate
- Planning regulations are a concern – companies are faces with lots of development hurdles including lengthy and costly planning processes
- Hiring and training represent substantial long-term investment
- Diversifying into adjacent or more resilient sectors is helping businesses manage risks and smooth revenue streams
- Businesses are exploring AI and automation to boost efficiency
- A greater focus on pay, benefits, improved workspaces and clearer career pathways is helping businesses retain key talent
Read more about the Roundtable
Photography – Paul David Drabble
