Internet keeps small businesses afloat

Date: 18th June 2009

Approximately two-thirds of small enterprises have stated that turnover has been unaffected by the recession, according to research from Mr Site and PayPal.

The study also found that many of the businesses' success was largely down to the internet.

Over 50 per cent of those surveyed said that their turnover had increased with the introduction of the internet.

Approximately 40 per cent said turnover had increased by 30 per cent.

Due to such marked results, 16 per cent of businesses are considering moving online completely.

A transfer to digital sales would herald two supposed benefits; the continuance of increased turnover and lower costs due to the loss of expenses such as rent.

The success of small businesses in the recession has largely depended upon the sector.

The legal, HR and finance sectors have been the most volatile with regards to turnover.

By contrast, the three sectors most unaffected are the public sector, education and manufacturing (engineering and utilities).