With the cost of doing business still rising in 2025, we know many local businesses across Kent – from cafés in Canterbury to builders in Bromley – are feeling the pinch. Whether it’s higher supplier costs, late deliveries, or tighter margins, cashflow is under pressure.
So in this blog we are sharing some simple, practical tips to help you stay in control of your cashflow – and build resilience in a challenging economy.
What's Causing the Squeeze in 2025?
Let’s be honest – it’s tough out there. Here are three key pressures Kent businesses are facing this year:
1. Inflation is still biting
Prices for materials, energy, and even insurance have stayed stubbornly high. You may be paying more for stock, utilities, and overheads than you were even a year ago.
2. Supply chain delays continue
Brexit fallout, international shipping issues, and labour shortages mean many businesses are waiting longer for stock or paying extra for fast delivery.
3. Customers are spending cautiously
With households watching their budgets, some sectors (especially retail and hospitality) are seeing slower sales or more unpredictable income.
So What Can You Do? Cashflow Tips That Actually Work
1. Forecast Monthly, Not Annually
Create a rolling 12-month cashflow forecast, but review it monthly. This helps you react quickly to dips in income or surprise costs. If you work with us, we can build or review one with you.
2. Review Your Outgoings
Now’s a great time to go through your regular expenses:
Are you paying for subscriptions or software you no longer use?
Could you renegotiate contracts with suppliers or service providers?
Could switching energy providers save you money?
Small cuts can make a big difference when margins are tight.
3. Be Proactive About Payments
Invoice quickly. Don’t wait until the end of the week or month.
Set clear payment terms (e.g. 7 or 14 days instead of 30).
Chase late payments promptly – or use automated tools to do it for you.
Consider offering small discounts for early payment or using online payment links to speed things up.
4. Build a Buffer
Easier said than done, we know – but try to build a small cash buffer where possible. Even a few hundred pounds can take the pressure off during quieter months or unexpected delays.
5. Get Smarter with Stock
If you’re holding lots of stock “just in case”, review what’s actually moving and what’s sitting on the shelf. Can you reduce bulk orders or switch to smaller, more frequent deliveries?
This ties up less cash and reduces the risk of waste.
Bonus Tip: Plan for Tax in Advance
Don’t get caught out by a surprise tax bill. Use your cashflow plan to set aside money monthly for VAT, Corporation Tax, or Self Assessment. It avoids panic later and keeps you in HMRC’s good books.
Let’s Tackle 2025 Together
We know it’s not easy – but with the right planning, you can stay in control of your cashflow and weather the challenges ahead. If you need help getting started, or just want a second pair of eyes on your numbers, we’re always happy to chat.
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