• Immediate Working Capital
  • Growth, Aquisitions, MBOs
  • No Need for Re-negotiation
  • Instant Cash Flow
  • Saves Management Time
  • Improved Collections Performance
  • Recession-Proof Thinking
  • Practical How To Guides
  • Business Knowledge Bank
  • Fast Track Response
  • Competitive Rates
  • Personal Service
Designs on survival
Date Added: Mon February 9 2009
More than half (54%) of UK businesses plan to use design to help them survive the economic downturn.

The survey showed that the number of firms who regarded design as integral to their operations had doubled in the past three years, from 15% to 30%.

The Design Council research, which covered 1,500 UK firms of all sizes and across all sectors, showed that design is rising up the business agenda. Over half (53%) of the businesses surveyed said that design has become more critical in helping the firm achieve its business objectives over the past three years; and the same number agreed that design is integral to the whole country’s future economic performance.

David Kester, Design Council Chief Executive, said: "Recession is no time to be battening down the hatches. It’s the moment when design becomes absolutely critical to survival, growth and success – and it’s great to see that there’s a growing recognition of this within the business community."

Castle Rock Brewery Chairman Chris Holmes said: "A small investment in design has paid huge dividends for us. We now have a clearer focus and a brand that reflects the care and attention that has gone into our award-winning beers. I no longer regard design as a luxury, but as a competitive necessity."