

Why it’s tough for small businesses right now! Here’s how Bickerstaff Accountants in Hayle, Cornwall can help you thrive.
It’s no secret that small businesses are under immense pressure in the current economic climate. With inflation pushing up the cost of materials, services, and staffing. The tax changes increasing the financial burden on employers, running a business can often feel more like surviving than thriving.
Add to this rising interest rates, reduced consumer spending and ever-changing compliance requirements. It’s easy to see why many small business owners feel stretched to their limits.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. There are smart ways to improve efficiency, protect your bottom line, and reduce tax liabilities, without compromising the quality of your product or service.
At Bickerstaff Accountants, we work closely with a wide range of local businesses and we see first-hand how hard it can be to stay on top of rising costs, tax compliance and day-to-day pressures. The good news is there are ways to become leaner, more efficient and more profitable, even in challenging times.
Here are 10 practical ways we’re helping our clients improve efficiency, save on tax and strengthen their businesses:
- Review your pricing strategy
If your costs have increased but your prices haven’t, your profits will be shrinking. We help clients assess their current pricing and margins to ensure they’re charging what their services are truly worth. Small, gradual price increases (explained clearly to customers) can make a big difference without damaging relationships.
- Automate where you can
We’re Xero and QuickBooks specialists and we help clients automate invoicing, bank reconciliations, payroll and VAT returns. This reduces time spent on admin and improves accuracy, saving hours of admin time each month and giving you more time to focus on your business.
- Outsource non-core work
Consider outsourcing payroll, bookkeeping, marketing or IT rather than employing in-house. This can reduce fixed overheads and improve flexibility. We provide reliable, affordable bookkeeping, VAT, payroll and CIS services, so you can free up your time and reduce the costs of hiring in-house staff.
- Maximise tax deductions
From capital allowances to mileage claims and working-from-home expenses, we make sure you’re claiming every allowable expense to reduce your tax bill. You’d be surprised how much gets missed without regular reviews.
- Look at business structure
Some businesses benefit from moving from sole trader to limited company, or from restructuring. We can help you assess if incorporation or group structuring would save tax and offer better long-term flexibility.
- Manage cash flow more effectively
Cash flow is the lifeblood of small businesses and we help clients use forecasts and real-time data to manage their cash flow and stay in control. We also advise on payment terms, invoice chasing and how to keep your cash moving when times are tight.
- Use the Annual Investment Allowance
Need to invest in tools, equipment, or tech? You may be able to claim 100% tax relief using the AIA. We’ll guide you on how to make the most of this valuable tax-saving opportunity.
- Trim unnecessary overheads
We often help clients identify software, subscriptions and insurance policies they no longer use or could renegotiate. A regular review of overheads can add up to big annual savings.
- Look after your team
Staff productivity and morale are closely linked and a happy team is a productive team. Consider offering flexible working where possible, involve your team in problem-solving and encourage feedback.
We support business owners with payroll, benefits and ways to improve staff retention, reducing recruitment costs and increasing consistency in your operations.
- Work with a local, proactive accountant
At Bickerstaffs, we’re more than number-crunchers. We’re here as your year-round support team. Whether it’s planning for tax, discussing funding options or just helping you make better business decisions. We take a personal, practical approach to helping our clients succeed.
If you’re feeling the pressure, it’s a challenging time to run a business and we know how hard you’re working to keep things going. It’s also a time to sharpen operations, rethink old habits and adapt for a more resilient future. If you’re feeling the strain, don’t face it alone. The right support, tools and insights can make all the difference and if you just want a fresh pair of eyes on your numbers or to talk over your options, we’re here to help.
Whether it’s a quick catch-up or a full business review, we’ll give you honest, down-to-earth advice tailored to you. Give us a call, drop us a message, or pop into the office, based in Hayle, Cornwall, we’d love to hear from you.