Industry Eye: It's the time of the year for some positive thinking

So, let's get and be positive and see the way forward. A growing business is also thinking positively: Where are the opportunities? Are new one arising?

Information and knowledge is always key. You must have a clear picture of the road in front of you.

And so we come to the economy: Who do we believe? Is there going to be a double dip? Will we be able to borrow money? Will others be able to borrow money?!

In the last twelve months we've created many new jobs (including the new East Yorkshire office at Shiptonthorpe) and the business has also grown. We have not had any grants or subsidies. We have just understood what we are good at and applied it to new sectors for the benefit of our existing clients, new clients and, of course, to our business.

As an example, if you look at the renewables sector, this is an area where there is significant growth potential for all property owners/occupiers. It's an area where funding is available and it's an area where you can increase the profitability of the business through a diversified project and for some, create energy efficiencies going forward. But be careful of the elephant traps and don't fall into any of the obvious pitfalls.

The rural sector has been slightly protected with the recent increase in commodity prices, and therefore now is a great time to be looking at new ventures and ideas to protect for those future years, when things may not be so profitable.

CW 20/11/10