Business news

Three quarters of businesses are still operating despite the coronavirus pandemic.

I'm a <a href='https://danmartinuk.com/' target='_self'>freelance content creator and event host</a> who helps small businesses and the organisations that support them. I'm also Enterprise Nation's Local Leader for Bristol.
I have 20 years of experience as a small business journalist having interviewed hundreds of entrepreneurs from famous names like Sir Richard Branson and Deborah Meaden to the founders behind brand new start-ups.
I've worked for a range of leading small business publications and support groups, most recently as head of content at Enterprise Nation where I was responsible for the prolific output of content on the company's blog and social media. I now freelance for Enterprise Nation as the website's <a href='https://www.enterprisenation.com/business-news' target='_self'>news reporter</a> and as the host of the <a href='https://www.enterprisenation.com/podcast' target='_self'>Small Business sessions podcast</a>.
I'm based in Bristol where I run and host regular events with the local small business community in my role as Enterprise Nation's Local Leader for Bristol. I also have strong connections with other major business organisations in the south west region.
In total, I've hosted over 100 events including conferences with an audience of hundreds for international brands like Xero and Facebook and live web chats from inside 10 Downing Street.
With my partner, I co-run <a href='https://www.lifestyledistrict.co.uk/' target='_self'>Lifestyle District</a>, a lifestyle blog focused on culture, art, theatre and photography.

Freelance content creator & event host

Three quarters of businesses are still operating despite the coronavirus pandemic but turnover has taken a significant hit for almost 40% of firms.

The findings come from the Office of National Statistics which is surveying around 18,000 VAT and PAYE registered businesses on the impact of the COVID-19 crisis every two weeks.

A total of 5,316 responded between 23 March and 5 April, the first week of the UK lockdown, and just under 75% of companies were still trading. Another 24.8% were temporarily closed and 0.4% were permanently shut.

Asked about the impact on turnover, 38% said it was substantially down, 17% said slightly lower than normal while 35% said it was unaffected.

For businesses still trading, an average 21% of the workforce had been furloughed through the government's 

 which provides grants for 80% of staff wages. The portal to make claims for the scheme 

Two fifths of operating companies said they are reducing staffing levels in the short term, but 7% said they have increased their workforce.

Businesses were also asked about arrangements for staff working patterns and 47% reported that employees were working remotely.

How to make sales during the COVID-19 crisis

The latest coronavirus support information

We are keeping you updated on the latest information on how to access the government's coronavirus business support 

. You can also find advice and ask a question on 

Enterprise Nation's coronavirus business advice hub

Coronavirus: 75% of firms still trading but sales substantially down for two fifths

Three quarters of businesses are still operating despite the coronavirus pandemic.

