New Budget, New Reality: What you must do now

You probably heard — the 2025 Autumn Budget is out, and the numbers make it clear: taxes are rising, finances are squeezed, interest rates are still high, and consumer spending is expected to tighten.

As someone who’s been in business for over 26 years — through recessions, austerity, Brexit and COVID — I’ve learned this: this isn’t the time to panic. It’s the time to plan.

Yes — customer spend will be affected. People will think twice, budgets will tighten.

But here’s the truth many don’t say loud enough: many millionaires are forged in tough times. Those who survive — and thrive — are the ones who get serious about strategy, structure, and clarity.

What the Budget Means for Small & Female-Owned Businesses

• The national economic growth forecast has been reduced for 2026 onward.

• Tax burdens are rising across the board — which means customers might have less disposable income.

• This increases the risk of cash-flow squeeze, especially if you don’t keep a close eye on margins, expenses, and pricing.

• But investment and growth aren’t off the table — if you plan carefully, manage your numbers, and stay agile.

What You Should Do Now as a Business Owner

1. Get crystal-clear on your numbers
   Run profit-and-loss projections, forecast cash flow for the next 12–24 months, and plan for “what-if” scenarios.

2. Tighten up your business systems and margins
   Where can you cut waste, tighten processes, and make sure every pound spent or earned is working hard for your business?

3. Know who your ideal clients are — and focus on them
   Discount-chasers will drop off fast. The clients who value your expertise and service will stay — and pay properly.

4. Plan, don’t panic
   Map out your marketing, pricing, and offers around real demand — not fear or emotion. Recessions don’t kill good businesses; poor planning does.

The Opportunity in Challenge

Over 26 years, I’ve seen downturns, recoveries, disruptions — and through it all, I’ve built businesses that stood the test of time.

This budget and what comes next? It’s a challenge — yes. But it’s also a wake-up call. A chance to get serious about where you’re heading.

If you treat it like a time to bunker down, you’ll survive.
If you treat it like a time to sharpen up, reinvent, and grow — you might just soar.

💬 Want Support?

My January 2026 Group Coaching Programme is designed precisely for this kind of moment.

A supportive space of women in business — building clarity, resilience, and strategy.

If you're ready to get serious about your business’s future — email back “READY” and I’ll send over all the details.

Because when the world shakes… you don’t just need grit.
You need a plan.

Stay steady, stay focused — and let’s build something that lasts.

Have a good weekend.
Speak soon,

Cherie