Small businesses are facing up to the economic downturn by cutting a variety of outgoings. And transport budgets are coming under most scrutiny.
Also on the list are entertaining; and third party costs.
That’s according to the takings from the latest SME Thermometer compiled by Enterprise Rent-A-Car, a daily rental company.
Rather than cost cutting, though, 43% of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) plan to make more of their transport budgets with efficiency. And not cost cutting.
A number of strategies are being used to make transport budgets stretch further. These include:
- Cutting unnecessary journeys (57%)
- Car-sharing (43%)
- Careful route planning (26%)
- Renting instead of leasing or purchasing cars (22%)
“As the economy flourished in recent years, many businesses have been able to spend that little bit more in areas such as entertaining and transport,” commented Rob Ingram, director of business development at Enterprise.
“However, as belts tighten, it’s management of these areas that could prove the difference to an organisation’s survival.
“The sheer scope of issues that the typical SME owner needs to keep track of can be overwhelming. So it can be vital to speak with the experts to gain the right insight. And arrive at the most relevant solutions for each individual business.”
Further information
If you would like more on this subject, go to our Downloads area for a free pdf How to maximise transport strategy More efficient transport key to SMEs surviving downturn