Archive for September 2026
Why Irish SMEs Should Review Their Business Continuity Plans Before 2027
At Lombard we believe that business continuity planning should not be treated as something reserved for large corporations. For Irish SMEs, having a clear plan for dealing with disruption can make the difference between a temporary setback and a serious financial crisis. As 2027 approaches, business…
Read MoreThe Financial Impact of Late Supplier Deliveries on Irish Businesses
At Lombard we believe that reliable suppliers are essential to the smooth running of any Irish business. When deliveries arrive late, the consequences can extend far beyond inconvenience. Delays can interrupt production, leave staff unable to work, cause missed customer deadlines and create unexpect…
Read MoreWhen Growth Creates Pressure: Managing the Financial Challenges of a Growing SME
We here at Lombard believe that business growth is a positive achievement, but growth without proper financial planning can create pressures that are easy to underestimate. Increasing sales, taking on staff, opening new premises, or investing in equipment can all bring opportunities, yet they also i…
Read MoreTop 5 Questions SMEs Should Ask Before Entering a Franchise Agreement
At Lombard we believe that buying into a franchise can provide an SME with a recognised brand, an established business model and access to valuable support. However, a franchise is not a guaranteed route to success. It involves financial commitments, contractual obligations and restrictions that can…
Read MoreWhy Customer Concentration Risk Deserves More Attention from Irish Business Owners
At Lombard we believe that having a strong customer base is one of the foundations of a successful business, but relying too heavily on one or two customers can create a serious financial vulnerability. Customer concentration risk occurs when a significant proportion of a company’s revenue com…
Read MoreThe Cost of Poor Financial Planning: Why Businesses Need a Clearer View of the Future
We here at Lombard believe that financial planning is one of the most important foundations of a successful business. Yet many business owners spend more time managing today’s demands than preparing for tomorrow’s challenges. Without a clear financial plan, even a profitable business can…
Read MoreTop 5 Financial Checks Irish SMEs Should Complete Before Taking on a New Premises
At Lombard we believe that taking on new premises is a major business decision that should be based on detailed financial planning rather than enthusiasm alone. Whether you are moving into your first commercial property, expanding into a larger unit or opening another location, the decision can brin…
Read MoreTop 5 Year-End Financial Decisions Irish SME Owners Should Not Leave Until January
At Lombard we believe that the final months of the year are an important opportunity for Irish SME owners to review their financial position and make informed decisions before the calendar turns. Leaving key financial matters until January can mean missed opportunities, unnecessary cash flow pressur…
Read MoreWhy Irish SMEs Should Review Their Insurance Cover as the Business Grows
At Lombard we believe that insurance should keep pace with the business it is designed to protect. As an Irish SME grows, its employees, turnover, equipment, premises, customers, suppliers and financial commitments can all change. Insurance cover that was appropriate when the business was smaller ma…
Read MoreThe Financial Risks of Expanding Into a New Market Without Proper Planning
At Lombard we believe that growth should be built on preparation rather than assumption. Expanding into a new market can create significant opportunities for an Irish SME, but entering a new region, customer segment or industry without understanding the financial implications can put pressure on cas…
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