Nicholsons Blogs

Today is the last day of January and the final day tax returns can be submitted to HMRC for the year ended 5 April 2009 without the possibility of penalties. 

For accountants 31 January is generally considered a bit of a watershed, a date to work to, but this January has been so much more and perhaps offers an encouraging sign that some confidence is returning. 

I have been encouraged by the number of conversations I have had with clients and business owners who are looking to grow and expand by either; introducing new products or services or making strategic acquisitions of other businesses. 

In January I also ran three strategic planning sessions with clients looking to identify a roadmap for their business to follow in 2010. Perhaps this is another sign that business owners are taking more time to consider the future and plan ahead.

January also saw me attend the SWPP International Conference. I came away after the 6 days I was there motivated and inspired by all of the professional photographers and other business owners who were without exception positive about the future and 2010. 

So as we head into February time will tell whether more confidence returns or whether we see a double dip in the economy but I feel that there is some encouragement.