The Grapevine Autumn 2019 Grapevine Oct-Nov 2019 v2 | Page 17

How we are helping clients prepare for No Deal Brexit W e all have our own views on Brexit, an ongoing debacle which continues to dominate the media and conversations with family, friends and colleagues. However, the fact is that whether you voted to remain or leave on 23rd June 2016, there is a very serious possibility that Prime Minister Boris Johnson will lead the UK into a leave with no deal position on 31st October. What business owners, senior leaders, decision makers and the general public need is a level playing field so that they can make informed and long-term strategic decisions. All they currently have is uncertainty and the prospect of no deal merely adds to the tension. Haines Watts Worcester has seen examples where clients have halted investments and delayed decisions related to big capital spend because ‘they just don’t know what tomorrow looks like’. Whilst we maintain that the world will continue to turn whether Brexit goes ahead or not, we do need to prepare for the likelihood of a no deal situation. We have been talking to a number of clients to help them prepare for this event and although the answer to many of their queries is not yet known, there are some simple housekeeping steps that all UK businesses can take to help reduce the impact of leaving the EU without a deal. • Monitor cashflow and funding arrangements, particularly if they are EU based or dependent or pegged to currency markets; • Investigate the prospect of reducing cash tied up in debtors by reviewing credit control procedures and ensuring strict adherence to credit control policies. This is particularly important as many businesses have invested in additional stock over the last few months to counter any no deal supply issues; • Review, cement and protect your supply chain. If you can review agreements now, evaluate alternatives and keep a dialogue open with your suppliers. Remember, even if they are based in the EU they will still want to sell to you as you help to create their profits; • Be proactive. Plan and review your plans and look for oppor- tunities to reduce exposure and risk. If you would like straightforward advice on planning for a no deal Brexit, contact our experienced team on the details below. Worcester tel: 01905 612347 email: worcester@hwca.com Evesham tel: 01386 579999 email evesham@hwca.com Tewkesbury tel: 01684 290123 email tewkesbury@hwca.com www.hwca.com/accountants-worcester We help business owners to BUILD A MORE VALUABLE BUSINESS Short to medium-term growth and profitability is essential, but do they ensure you maximise the long-term value of your business? Haines Watts can help you look at your business in a different way and support you in building value. To find out more contact Haines Watts, your local award winning accountants Suite 1A, Shire Business Park, Wainwright Rd, Worcester, WR4 9FA - 01905 612347 worcester@hwca.com Vale Business Centre, 9 Abbey Lane Court, Evesham, WR11 4BY - 01386 579999 evesham@hwca.com www.hwca.com The Grapevine 17