Archive for September 2026

At Hughes & Co we believe that buying into a franchise can provide an SME with a recognised brand, an established business model and access to valuable support. However, a franchise is not a guaranteed route to success. It involves financial commitments, contractual obligations and restrictions that…

At Hughes & Co we believe that having a strong customer base is one of the foundations of a successful business, but relying too heavily on one or two customers can create a serious financial vulnerability. Customer concentration risk occurs when a significant proportion of a company’s revenue…

At Hughes & Co we believe that taking on new premises is a major business decision that should be based on detailed financial planning rather than enthusiasm alone. Whether you are moving into your first commercial property, expanding into a larger unit or opening another location, the decision can…

At Hughes & Co we believe that the final months of the year are an important opportunity for Irish SME owners to review their financial position and make informed decisions before the calendar turns. Leaving key financial matters until January can mean missed opportunities, unnecessary cash flow pre…

At Hughes & Co we believe that insurance should keep pace with the business it is designed to protect. As an Irish SME grows, its employees, turnover, equipment, premises, customers, suppliers and financial commitments can all change. Insurance cover that was appropriate when the business was smalle…

At Hughes & Co we believe that growth should be built on preparation rather than assumption. Expanding into a new market can create significant opportunities for an Irish SME, but entering a new region, customer segment or industry without understanding the financial implications can put pressure on…

We here at Hughes & Co believe that preparing for higher costs should begin before those costs start putting pressure on your margins. For Irish SMEs, changes in wages, supplier prices, financing, insurance, energy and other overheads can quickly affect profitability. Preparing for 2027 now gives bu…

We here at Hughes & Co believe that a business does not need to be large or complex to benefit from a formal budget. As 2027 approaches, many Irish SMEs will be making decisions about hiring, investment, pricing, borrowing and growth. Without a clear financial plan, those decisions can become reacti…

We here at Hughes & Co believe that supplier terms deserve the same level of attention as pricing, sales and overheads. For many Irish SMEs, supplier costs can have a direct impact on margins and cash flow, yet agreements and purchasing arrangements can remain unchanged for years. Reviewing supplier…

We here at Hughes & Co believe that stock should be viewed as more than a balance sheet figure. For many Irish SMEs, holding sufficient inventory is essential for serving customers and maintaining smooth operations. However, carrying more stock than the business needs can quietly tie up cash, increa…