United Kingdom
Industry Issues
Our specialist Retail team prides itself on pre-empting issues in the industry and offering tailored solutions to help move your business forward.
Operational performance improvement
There is no doubt that the industry faces a testing time, but no matter the severity of the slow down, it’s the companies that focus on good house keeping, such as working capital management, cash control and proper structuring that are likely to emerge the strongest.
At BDO we believe there continues to be a great opportunity for retail companies in a challenging market. By evaluating your business model, operations and processes you can ensure your business is in the best shape to navigate through difficult times.
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Maximising tax efficiencies
Cash is king in an economic downturn, particularly in the current climate where we’re also facing a credit crunch. Cash tax liabilities place a significant demand on a company's cash resources and consequently they need to be managed more effectively than ever.
The capital allowances tax regime changed significantly from April 2008. The new rules provide opportunities for retailers and wholesalers to re-evaluate their approach and to adopt a robust stance on minimising tax costs and improving tax cash flow.
At BDO, we have devised numerous strategies to help your business through these difficult times. These tax saving initiatives cover corporation tax, capital allowances tax, VAT and human capital to help you maximise your claims for reliefs and deductions and to help you plan reductions in your tax cash flows wherever possible.
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Managing tax cash during the downturn
Capital expenditure – new opportunities
Keep you up-to-date with tax
Tax services
Franchising
The best brands know how to use the power of the franchise model to drive sales volume with minimum investment. Whether attempting to open up new markets or energising existing ones, franchising can be deployed tactically to address immediate issues or as a core strategy for the business. BDO has franchise experts who can help businesses ascertain where and how franchising could assist with addressing current business challenges.
For more information please contact Don Williams, National Head of Retail and Wholesale, or contact your local BDO adviser.
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Acquisitions, disposals and fundraising
The outlook for the retail industry in 2009 is challenging, with many external forces impacting consumer spending and the global downturn affecting the private equity industry’s ability to raise debt. However, there are still opportunities out there.
When companies are approached by potential purchasers or intend to sell their business in the future, it is imperative that they plan in advance.
The process of targeting the right sources of debt and equity funds and raising and optimising finance is complex. Businesses need to establish shareholder’s financial objectives and groom the business to maximise value.
Whether buying or selling, we offer specialist advice throughout the process, from day one - discussing your options, undertaking valuations and identifying potential acquirers or bid targets - through to completing the transaction.
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