Expert Comment
Preparation is pre-requisite for positive planning
The government is talking a lot about ‘growth’ and has at last recognised the shortcomings in the nation’s planning system. Much is made of how poorly our planning system works, but what can businesses do to tip the odds in their favour?
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A Budget for growth?
The rows over the government’s recent Budget continue to rumble on, and for businesses in the South East, the impact is still being assessed.
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End-of-year reflections
As 2024 draws to a close, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on a year that began with significant challenges but has ended on a note of progress, resilience and growth.
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Celebrating progress
As we reflect on the progress of the Sussex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), we’re excited to share the positive strides that have been made in shaping a more skilled, resilient workforce for our region.
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More challenges ahead for our businesses
Businesses were disappointed in the recent Budget announcements. Whilst there were no direct hits on personal taxation, some of the actions will certainly have a knock-on effect.
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The jury is still out on the new government
We’re a little more than four months into the new term, and already, business is being asked to shoulder the majority of the financial burden for failing public services.
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Are experts being listened to again?
Over recent years, experts have been widely dismissed by ministers, most notably by Michael Gove. However, it looks like that blinkered attitude is changing. Could it signal an opportunity for business?
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Are you meeting your legal obligations as an employer?
After years of working with business leaders to transform their workplaces into hubs of collaboration, productivity and innovation, the Dharma Centre for Workplace Wellbeing is launching its state-of-the-art virtual workplace wellbeing academy, designed to bolster your team’s workplace wellbeing efforts and fast-track your company’s journey towards legal compliance and beyond.
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Solving the recruitment conundrum
There is no question that currently recruitment can be very challenging, with many vacancies difficult to fill. On the other hand, there are many people ready and willing to work but they find it difficult to navigate the recruitment process.
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Government weighs up LTC
The other week, my team, along with a huge gathering of stakeholders, attended a House of Commons reception to press home the message to the Government on the importance of giving the green light on 4 October to the new Lower Thames Crossing.
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Unveiling Bexhill Enterprise Park North
In the last edition, I reported that lettings in our High Weald House office building on the Bexhill Enterprise Park were going well: the business centre is two-thirds full, with half of the remaining offices under offer. I also outlined how sites surrounding the building – in an area we’re now calling Bexhill Enterprise Park South – are available on a fully-serviced freehold basis for companies to develop for a wide range of uses.
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An autumn update
As autumn begins, Discovery Park continues to thrive with activity. We’re welcoming new tenants, starting our latest growth programme and hosting events that highlight our dedication to driving innovation and progress in Kent.
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With the Devolution Agenda accelerating, will the South East be left behind?
The new Labour government has made devolution a cornerstone of its vision for Britain, introducing an English Devolution Bill as one of the centrepieces of its first King’s Speech with the aim of “moving power out of Westminster and back to those who know their areas best”.
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Sussex Chamber Business Awards 2024
The Sussex Chamber Business Awards evening was a fantastic celebration of the achievements of our business community. It presented an amazing opportunity to grow your brand, stand out from the crowd, to be seen as a high-performing business or individual, attract new talent, differentiate yourself from competitors and celebrate the hard work and achievements of your employees.
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Supporting the Surrey ecosystem
Surrey County Council has moved very quickly to set up a Business Support service to provide a great addition to the support ecosystem in Surrey. Surrey Chambers of Commerce has organised and delivered a roadshow of business events that have been a huge success, covering a wide area of Surrey at different times of day!
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What’s in a question?
A lot has been spoken about artificial intelligence (AI) by people far wiser than I, but I wanted to focus on a specific part of the story that I became aware of, following a Radio 4 interview between Nick Robinson of the Today programme and the CEO of Mumsnet.
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Next phase for Bexhill Enterprise Park
The Bexhill Enterprise Park was conceived as part of a drive to create a major urban extension to Bexhill in East Sussex, to the north-east of the town.
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Leading the charge in innovation and early-stage business support
At Discovery Park, we know that fostering innovation and collaboration is key to driving scientific and technological advancements.
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Getting recruitment, onboarding and training right for your business
Recruitment and retaining the right staff can be a painful and expensive experience for any organisation. How can you reduce the risk of engaging the wrong person for the organisation? How can you nurture the right people so that you have an enthusiastic and cohesive team to facilitate growth and profitability?
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After the euphoria, does Labour have a Southern problem?
The Labour Party swept to an impressive victory at the July General Election, overturning a catastrophic loss in 2019 to a 180-seat majority in 2024.
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Right, let’s crack on
Over the last few months, we all endured the uncertainty generated by a General Election, and from a communications perspective, there are quite a few takeaways.
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The final stage on the rules for Tipping and gratuities
New rules to ensure fairness and transparency around handling tips and gratuities will soon go live for hospitality and other service sector businesses. New rules to ensure fairness and transparency around handling tips and gratuities will soon go live for hospitality and other service sector businesses. These are designed to ensure an even-handed approach […]
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Business credit scores matter
Business and supplier relationships are crucial for success It is a relationship defined, amongst many other factors, by payment terms, credit control and, in some instances, offering customers a line of credit. But not all businesses are created equal, and it can be difficult to determine how a relationship might develop. For all businesses beginning […]
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Juxtaposed border controls cause concern
Kent has always been unique in the eyes of its residents. However, post-Brexit, we now have a more significant relevance in that we have two of the UK’s three juxtaposed borders. This may lead you to ask: what are they and why does it matter? In our case, a juxtaposed border is where another country […]
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The latest Future Skills Forum
Young people don’t know what they don’t know, and this is particularly true for insights into careers – one reason why the latest Future Skills Forum, born out of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), was a great place to launch a suite of new localised careers factsheets, aimed at young people, careers advisers and […]
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Future of the economy
The British Chambers of Commerce manifesto sets out a clear plan for sustainable growth for the next government. We want to build an economy that has the green transition at its core, with a workforce fit for the future, living in thriving local places and powered by businesses that are globally facing and digitally enabled. […]
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Great marketing is at the core of Apple’s success
In my first job, back in 1986, I was handed an Apple Macintosh Plus, with only 1 MB of RAM and an 800kb hard drive. It immediately connected with me, and I was hooked after I wrote my first-ever press release on it. Since that day, most of the tech I use at Maxim’s office […]
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The election will bring political change to the South East
With the General Election scheduled for 4 July and Labour still enjoying significant poll leads over the Conservatives, the South East is looking set to be a key electoral battleground, and the national result could have significant implications for the region. Both Labour and the Liberal Democrats are targeting seats in the South East, with […]
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Reform of Holiday Pay
The basic right to annual leave is that a worker is entitled to 5.6 weeks’ leave each year. This is the equivalent to 28 days for those working five days a week. Subsequently, a part time worker is entitled to a pro rata amount of 28 days, according to the number of days they work. […]
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Maximising Business Property Relief
At the start of 2022, there were estimated to be 5.5 million private sector businesses in the UK, of which 5.47 million businesses were in the small category (i.e. with 0 to 49 employees) – the very backbone of the British economy. But are these business owners maximising tax allowances available to them to ensure […]
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Paternity Leave and Carer’s Leave
From 6 April 2024, where the expected week of childbirth or expected date of placement for adoption falls on or after this date, paternity leave will be able to be taken in two blocks of one week, rather than having to take two weeks leave consecutively. In addition, the leave can be taken at any […]
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Are we really running out of people?
In the last edition’s article, I made the case for how our economy would benefit from having more medium-sized businesses. One such benefit was the opportunity to provide work placements, internships or even higher-level apprenticeships as a means of growing and expanding the workforce. This, in itself, was as good a reason as any to […]
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A spring update
Here at Surrey Chambers, we are delighted to be launching, in partnership with Surrey Heath Borough Council, the Surrey Manufacturing and Engineering Network – a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and growth within the manufacturing and engineering sector in Surrey. Our mission is to facilitate shared learning, create supply chain opportunities and offer business […]
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Boosting growth and promoting sustainability
Sussex Chambers has recently partnered with Reveela.com, a cutting-edge digital marketing platform. This strategic collaboration aims to help Chamber members gain a competitive advantage in both local and international markets by leveraging advanced digital marketing capabilities powered by new energy-reducing artificial intelligence, developed by Reveela Technologies and part funded by Innovate UK. Understanding the crucial […]
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What does Labour’s ‘mission-based government’ mean for business?
With a General Election edging ever closer and the polls suggesting a change of government is on the cards, many businesses are starting to think more seriously about what a Labour administration means for them. Central to the Labour Party’s pitch at the election is the idea of its five missions – centred around economic […]
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We need a different conversation about development
Nearly everyone criticises the planning system, but isn’t one of the biggest problems, literally, much closer to home? Are we looking at development, and specifically housebuilding, through the wrong end of the telescope and overlooking the positives? The reality is we all need a place to live, and it changes throughout the stages of our […]
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What is the Whole Life Cost (WLC) of a vehicle and what should you consider?
In the ever-evolving landscape of business operations, the decision to change vehicles is a significant one that requires careful consideration. As businesses weigh the options, one crucial factor that often takes centre stage is the total cost of ownership or Whole Life Cost (WLC). This encompasses not just the upfront costs but also the operational […]
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Offering flexible work can help you tap a latent talent pool
The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics tell us that 8.68 million people aged 16-64 are economically inactive in the UK, while at the same time, there are more than 900,000 vacancies across the country. Just 1.57 million of those economically inactive people are classified as unemployed, with the rest made up of […]
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Trust will be the watchword for ’24
This year, securing trust and retaining their own reputation will be more important than ever for business and dare I say it, politicians. According to the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer, half the UK population trusts business, up 1% on the previous year, while only 37% trust the government, a fall of 5%. Worryingly, it also […]
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Entering the Sussex Chamber Business Awards
The Sussex Chamber Business Awards are returning for 2024 to highlight and celebrate the expertise, achievements and outstanding contributions that businesses and individuals continually make to the growth of the county. Here are some hints and tips on how you can make the most of your entry… The judges Your entry will be assessed by […]
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2024 Support
What could possibly challenge us in 2024? Facing a general election is likely to distract from the work needed to improve the economy and deliver support for businesses, who generate jobs, taxes and contribute so much to their local communities. There is a lot of support available for businesses, but it does not always reach […]
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Business needs to be more than just a livelihood
With political and regulatory uncertainty in abundance, it’s understandable that most businesses will have little appetite for investment or expansion. However, this uncertainty will eventually pass, and the UK government, of whatever persuasion, will need to make its intentions around economic growth clear and unambiguous to unlock the UK’s trade potential. But the focus needs […]
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Employee Complaints
In a recent case we dealt with, our client had received a bullying complaint from an employee who didn’t want any formal investigation or action to be taken. What are the risks here, and what should employers do in this situation? Much will depend on the seriousness of the allegation/misconduct in question and the type […]
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SME Cash Reserves
Research from Allica Bank suggests that small and medium-sized businesses are holding an astonishing £273 billion in cash in low or no interest bank accounts. But just what should businesses do with cash reserves to make them work harder, asks funding experts, Abbey Watkins and John Walsham of Kreston Reeves. Research from Allica Bank suggests […]
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A promising horizon: Positive trends in the UK mortgage market
Over the last 18 months, the UK property market has been in a period of flux. However, the tide is changing, presenting a positive outlook for homebuyers. Several key factors contribute to this optimistic landscape, including a decline in inflation, a trend of lower fixed rates and a correction in house prices. As we delve […]
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COP28 Activities
COP28, UN Climate Change Conference – United Arab Emirates 2023, from 30 November to 12 December, is a key date for the international community to come together and set out how to meet the Climate Challenge as a planet. The British Chamber Network and members will be actively taking part in COP28 events and initiatives. […]
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Fostering Growth
As I write, we eagerly await the King’s Speech and my fingers are crossed that it’s one that will support business and business growth. There have been far too many impediments to growth over the past five-plus years and this could be an opportunity to start to turn things around, show signs of positivity and […]
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Crowe UK continues to help organisations keep on top of international trade tax developments
Industry leaders from across Kent gathered at Crowe UK’s Maidstone office for the firm’s latest International Trade event where updates on a range of international trade developments were provided. The event was hosted by Crowe UK’s Head of Manufacturing – Johnathan Dudley – and included presentations provided by Crowe UK’s Customs team, Ian Worth, Jamie […]
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Directors’ Duties and The Threat of Insolvency
With the UK economy facing an uncertain path on account of domestic and global upheaval, businesses continue to face challenges, and it is essential for directors to be mindful of their duties both generally and more particularly where there is the risk of insolvency. The Insolvency Service has issued refresher guidance on the Government website […]
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Navigating the HR Risksat Workplace Gatherings
After a few years of disruption due to the pandemic, workplace gatherings are firmly back on the scene; whether it’s regular drinks after work, networking events, or an all-company party. Everyone deserves to relax and have fun; however, employers should always plan ahead to ensure that they do not have an ‘employment law […]
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Unlocking Commercial Mortgages
Despite the challenging economic environment business owners continue to seek a commercial mortgage to fund the purchasing, expansion, renovation or refinancing of commercial premises. A commercial mortgage can allow a business owner to seize growth opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. But, as with all borrowing, there will be conditions attached. Owning a […]
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2024 Promises Another Year of Uncertainty When all Business wants is Stability
Whatever you think of the merits of HS2, it is unquestionable that the project suffered from stops, starts, redesigns and complications – all of which contributed to the spiralling costs. That shouldn’t surprise anyone. Uncertainty increases risk and costs then rise as parties try to mitigate the risk or be compensated for accepting it. The […]
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Confidence Breeds Confidence
It was disappointing, but not surprising, that companies in the South East have reported lower confidence in their own business prospects, according to the latest Business Barometer from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking. What can we do to turn this around given the challenging economic climate? Confidence breeds confidence, just like success breeds success. The survey […]
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The Experts at MHA talk about the Autumn Statement
Duncan Cochrane Dyet PartnerAuditduncan.cochrane-dyet@mha.co.uk In 2022 China built around 2,500 km of railway of which half were high speed tracks. HS2 was originally 330 miles, now reduced to 175 miles, and has taken 14 years to get to this stage. This is sobering stuff and illustrates the necessity of a long-term consistent strategy that cuts […]
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Sharing growth is a popular way to incentivise employees
Share Incentive schemes are a popular and well-recognised way for employers to attract, motivate, incentivise and retain staff. A key advantage is that they can be set up with varying rights to incentivise growth, which is becoming increasingly popular with employers. However, the receipt of shares and/or share options are potentially subject to income tax […]
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Could PAYE Settlement Agreements stop your employees from experiencing unexpected tax bills?
Businesses are suffering increased costs and employers are looking for various ways to reward their employees and keep them engaged beyond pay rises and bonuses. The issue however is that a lot of these alternative methods can be caught by the benefit in kind (BIK) rules. BIK’s need to be reported on a form P11D […]
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The Good Divorce
For too long, the options available to couples who needed legal support to navigate their way through a separation was limited to litigation and costly drawn-out court proceedings. Over time though, the landscape for these couples has evolved and the legal support they require can now be tailored to match with their intentions to […]
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The telecoms industry is changing – what does it mean for your business?
The telecommunication industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and the ISDN and PSTN networks, which have served us well for decades, are no longer capable of meeting the demands of today’s digital world. The need for faster, more versatile and cost-effective communication solutions has led to the decision to switch off ISDN and PSTN […]
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Ambitious action plan for skills
Creating a mechanism to deliver cultural and behavioural change in the local skills system is central to our Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), published in August following approval from the Secretary of State for Education. The report and accompanying action plan outlines key priorities for the local area to help reshape the technical skills system […]
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Achieving nutrient neutrality
Back in the summer of 2020, local planning authorities in the River Stour catchment were told that any new developments that included an overnight stay must not increase the level of nutrients and nitrogen in the River Stour as it was having a negative impact on the Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve. This mainly covered the […]
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Future Skills Sussex
The government’s Skills for Jobs white paper set out an ambitious employer-led approach aimed at making further education (FE) provision more responsive to local skills needs and, ultimately, local economic needs. As part of this approach, Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) were introduced as a key part of the government’s vision of an adult skills […]
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The local authority funding crisis is coming to the South East
With news that the largest local authority in Western Europe has declared bankruptcy, many councils in the South East will be nervously looking over their shoulder. It’s no great secret that local authority funding has been cut significantly since 2010, primarily as a result of a 17.5% real-terms cut in central government grants. However, what […]
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Constructing a case for development
As we can see in this edition of South East Business, the construction industry is important to the region’s economy. There are some fantastic companies, but too often before a spade can be put in the ground, there’s the need to navigate the court of public opinion, and that requires good communication from the start. […]
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Hidden VAT costs and common errors with business promotions
Crowe UK’s Rob Janering provides SMEs with expert advice on hidden VAT costs
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Equality, diversity and inclusion is good for staff and for business
Within the Business Bar, Kent-based businesses spanning finance, recruitment, law, marketing and more come together to grow and adapt. Member Henry Doswell, principal solicitor at Doswell Law Solicitors, talks about how equality, diversity and inclusion is good for staff and for business… Taking equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) seriously in the workplace has huge benefits […]
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The South East is becoming a political battleground
Expert advice from Harry Shackleton, a partner at strategic communications and business transformation consultancy Inflect Partners It was indicative that Keir Starmer, the Labour Party leader, chose to visit Medway to celebrate the May 2023 local elections results. With the governing Conservative party losing more than a thousand seats overnight, there were plenty of victories […]
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IP telephony is the inevitable trend
Within the Business Bar, Kent-based businesses spanning finance, recruitment, law, marketing and more come together to grow and adapt. Member Gary Linin, director of New World Netcom, talks about how IP telephony is the inevitable trend… In 2020, the global pandemic forced businesses to adopt new ways of working and challenged us to reimagine the […]
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3 critical aspects of a business-aligned IT strategy for 2023
Tribeca Technology’s CEO and founder Mark Instance advises businesses on developing a business-aligned IT strategy for 2023 Despite recession concerns and the highest levels of inflation in 40 years, only 6% of businesses plan to cut their IT spending in 2023, according to Spiceworks Ziff Davis. This is unsurprising since the Covid 19 pandemic is […]
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Who is sitting around your table?
Running a business has its ups and downs, as all business owners know, and sometimes all the planning in the world and the best ideas can have to be changed due to factors outside of your control.
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