Monthly Archives: June 2021

Business finance options for UK construction firms

Originally written by fundingoptions on Small Business
Despite the pandemic, the construction industry is growing at its fastest rate since 2014, according to the latest IHS Markit/CIPS Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).
This trend is set to continue. Building works for both residential and commercial properties have continued throughout the last 12 months and more are in the pipeline as demand rises.
However, this surge in demand for construction services, alongside factors such as increased shipping costs, has left construction materials, including cement, some electrical components, timber, steel and paints, in short supply.
The Federation of Master Builders says this means some building companies may have to delay projects and others could close entirely.
Fortunately, there are lots of construction finance options out there to help affected firms manage their cash flow and pay suppliers and staff during this busy period.
What is construction finance?
Construction finance is a type of business finance designed for building contractors, sub-contractors and other companies operating in the construction industry.
Lack of funds can lead to delays which ripple down the supply chain. Construction finance provides businesses with the capital they need in order to fund their building projects.
Think of it as a kind of funding bridge: a solution to cover costs

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How to start your own coffee shop

Originally written by Anna Jordan on Small Business
Starting a coffee shop is at once exciting and daunting – there’s a lot to factor in before you even start writing your business plan.
This guide will take you through the main steps of how to start your own coffee shop, with comments from experts in the industry and links to further information.
What should be included in my coffee shop business plan?
The first part of your start-up is always the same: your business plan.
Your coffee shop business plan will look very similar to any other. It should include:

Your business proposition
Unique selling point (USP)
Target customer
Marketing strategy
Sources of funding
Overheads
Financial forecasts

What’s different with a coffee shop is that you’ll need to talk about what kind of coffee you’re going to use and what’s included in your menu. Is it food or drink that you expect to be your biggest money maker?
Along with the proposition, you should include your business’ purpose. Many businesses now launch with an ethical core. Not only will having your purpose in your business plan keep you on track with fulfilling your goals, but it will also help to attract ethical investors.
You must have these points nailed down before you approach partner companies.

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