Confidence among UK small firms has risen to the highest level in more than a year, according to the latest Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Small Business Index (SBI).

The SBI stands at 20.0 in Q1 2017, the highest figure since Q4 2015, and up considerably from the -2.9 recorded after the EU referendum.

According to the federation, the strong recovery has been spurred by increased international trade with a net balance of 15.6% of small firms reporting a rise in export activity during the past three months, with a net balance of 30.5% expecting international sales to increase over the next quarter. Both figures are at their highest level since the SBI began.

Mike Cherry, FSB National Chairman, said: “It’s hugely encouraging to see our small businesses trading more overseas, driving an exports-led recovery.”

We see that growing confidence every day among the companies with which we work and we believe that digital technology is playing its part to support continuing growth, and Bowe Digital offers a range of IT solutions that can help businesses take advantage.

Call us on 0191 214 1750 or email info@bowe.co.uk to find out how.

Bowe Digital – we make I.T. happen

The leader of a small businesses organisation has welcomed the recent launch of the Government’s strategy against cybercrime but warned that SMEs still need more protection.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said the National Cyber Security Strategy was welcome because small businesses are the victims of more than seven million cyber crimes a year, costing £5.26 billion annually.

FSB National Chairman Mike Cherry said:“When a small business is attacked, it can lead to weeks of delayed or lost orders, significant financial loss and damaged reputations. It’s an absolute necessity for businesses and Government to work together to increase the resilience of the small business community to help them get back on their feet after an attack.”

Bowe Digital can help protect your IT system against the latest cyber threats. Call us on 0191 214 1750 or email info@bowe.co.uk to find out how.  Can you afford not to?

Bowe Digital – we make I.T. happen