Trading outlook poor for many reopened businesses

Most businesses which have reopened after Covid-19 closure periods expect to achieve only half of their normal earnings over the next three months, writes Brian Byrne.

That's the result of a survey taken by Chambers Ireland, which also shows that a quarter of all businesses expect to reach only 30pc of usual earnings.

Smaller businesses are seeing revenue reduced most significantly, and almost two-thirds are experiencing a significant increase in unpaid and delayed payments due to them.

Allan Shine, CEO of County Kildare Chamber, says there's no shock in the results. "Invoice arrears continue to rise, sole traders and the self-employed are the most vulnerable and many small businesses fear the worst and may have to close their doors over the coming months," he said in a statement. "We need dramatic financial intervention to support SMEs while they continue trading and retain jobs."

County Kildare Chamber represents 400 businesses in the county.

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