Helping South Yorkshire Businesses To Grow Even When Times Are Tough

Why I’ve Made It My Mission to Be Your Go-To Business Growth Consultant

A Note From Me to You

If you’re running a business in South Yorkshire right now, I don’t need to tell you it’s tough out there. You already know.

The economy’s unpredictable, costs are climbing, and the rules seem to change every other week. You’re working hard, probably harder than ever and still wondering if it’s enough to keep things moving forward.

Unfortunately, you’re not alone.

In fact, over 400 local businesses responded to the South Yorkshire Chambers’ Business Growth Survey, and guess what? Most of them said the same thing:

“We want to grow… but we’re not sure how.”

They’re not short on ambition. They want to increase sales, attract more customers, build their brand, and develop their teams. But they’re hitting roadblocks. Economic pressures. Policy shifts. And most of all a lack of practical support from people who really get it.

That’s where I come in.

Let’s Talk About What You’re Up Against

Here’s a snapshot of what the survey told us:

· 78% of respondents were from the service sector

· Most were small businesses 46% have fewer than 10 employees 26% have 10-49 employees

· The top 3 priorities?

1. Increase sales

2. Build partnerships

3. Raise brand awareness

· The top 2 challenges?

1. A tough economy

2. Government policies that feel like they’re working against you

What really stood out to me was this: 70% of businesses said they want to increase their sales, but only 23% are looking at new UK markets, and just 16% are exploring overseas ones.

That’s not a lack of vision that’s a sign people feel stuck. They know they need to grow, but they’re not sure how to make that leap without falling flat.


So… Who Are They Turning To?

When asked where they look for help, business owners said:

· Accountants (30%)

· Chambers of Commerce (28%)

· Business networks (27%)

Only 6% said they rely on national government services. Why? Because most of us have learned that those “one-size-fits-all” programs rarely fit anyone.

What businesses said they really want is support with:

· Business development (53%)

· Marketing (36%)

· People and skills (33%)

Sound familiar?

Here’s How I Can Help

I’ve been where you are. I’ve worked with business owners who feel like they’re shouting into a black hole trying to get noticed, or who’ve hit a sales ceiling and don’t know how to break through.

I’m not a hands-off “strategy” person who drops a report and disappears. I’m in this with you sleeves rolled up, side by side, working to move your business forward.

1. Business Development That Doesn’t Feel Like a Mystery

You don’t need more buzzwords. You need a plan that works to find customers, start meaningful conversations, and close more deals.

We can help with:

· Business strategy that fits you, not someone else’s playbook

· Employee training

· Partnership building to grow your reach

2. Marketing That’s Clear, Confident, and Consistent

Marketing doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. We help you:

· Clarify what makes your business special

· Build trust with the right audience

· Create campaigns that bring in business not just clicks



3. People and Skills: Build a Team That Grows With You

You can’t do it all alone. But you can have a team that’s skilled, aligned, and motivated.

We help you:

· Identify skill gaps

· Train and upskill your team

· Create a culture that drives performance


Why We Do This

Because at Applaud we believe in South Yorkshire businesses. Believe you’re the backbone of our economy and our communities and you deserve better support.


One business owner in the survey put it perfectly:


“We’ve been failed by the Government on every level… We need immediate support before more businesses have to close their doors.”


That hit me. Because they’re right and that’s why I’m stepping up.



Let’s Talk - No Pressure, No Pitch


If your business could use a hand with growth, sales, or just figuring out what’s next, I’d love to talk. I offer a free consultation not a sales pitch, just a conversation to understand where you’re at and whether I can help.


01302 458685 chat@applaudbc.co.uk https://www.applaudbc.co.uk


Let’s turn insight into action — together.