How was your business been affected by the initial lockdown?
“Drastically, we have changed the direction and product mix that we are required to supply. Being able to provide different sectors has definitely been a bonus. We aren’t selling traditional desks & chairs to offices at the moment but we are supplying lots of home workers direct. Sales of screens have seen a significant rise. Vinyl print is now more popular than promotional print. Personal Protective Equipment was a small sector for us historically yet recently it has dominated.“
What steps have your taken to overcome the challenges?
“We have taken advantage of the various government initiatives to help that have been available. The Furlough Scheme has been invaluable, not just from a financial element but also a relief from the anxiety of ensuring income for invaluable staff members.”
What results have you seen from the changes so far?
“Currently we are doing ok. We have been quick to analyse our position not only from a sales perspective but also our financial liabilities. We have gained new business merely by being open and pro-active. Three previous clients have returned to us, from competitors, as they know our level of customer service and their anticipated combined spend is approximately £300k so there are obviously opportunities out there.”
How do you anticipate the long-term effects of COVID-19 can be mitigated by these changes?
“No business can afford to stand still whatever the economic climate, you have to adapt to change and be ready for it. As a business we proved that we could work remotely prior to lockdown in accordance with our disaster recovery plan which has been very reassuring. I am hoping that we continue to add business whilst retaining a good proportion of what we had prior to the lockdown.”
How have Pierce supported your or helped you deal with the COVID-19 effects?
“It became apparent very quickly that having long term partnerships with your support services is paramount. We have been a client of Pierce for over 30 years. The guidance we have received during this time whether it be good times or bad has always been readily available and prudent. I requested assistance for a CBIL’s application and the level of detail received ensured that the bank had all relevant data with back up information required on the first submission and ultimately resulted in approval. Pierce have a very unique skill in that not only are they good at the numbers they all so excel in their commercial awareness to meet the client’s needs.”
Phillip Business Solutions are a second generation Office Supplies, Interiors, Branding and Web Development Specialist based in Lancashire, providing products & services to commercial businesses throughout the UK & beyond.
“We are proud of what we achieve on a daily basis. Our commitment to our clients & our ambition to find new ones knows no boundaries.”
Cecilia Phillips