Optimism still prevailing amongst SMEs

Many SMEs across the UK are shaking off the shackles of the current gloom in the UK economy and predicting growth for next year, a new poll by credit reporting firm Experian has found.

Almost three-quarters of an October survey of 133 SMEs are expecting to see sales growth in 2012. Of those predicting growth, 68% expected sales to UK customers to be the predominant growth driver, whilst 12% forecast growth to come from international sales.

18% are looking to recruit next year as a chink of light emerged hinting that there will be some jobs created in the private sector next year.

The poll also asked SMEs their plans for finance next year, with almost a quarter intending to take on and source new credit next year, with another 33% unsure. Of those intending to borrow in 2012, SMEs were increasingly looking for flexible forms of finance.

Invoice finance as a flexible funding solution

Could your business do with a funding solution that is flexible and tailored especially to the requirements of your business?

With the recent increases in rates on bank overdrafts and loans, invoice finance, which includes invoice factoring and invoice discounting, is now regarded as a viable and cost-effective alternative to bank credit.

Why not check out our graphical guides to invoice factoring and invoice discounting here, to see if invoice finance could be just the right funding solution your business needs to have a profitable and successful 2012.