NEW figures out today show the recession has left one in five Merseyside firms teetering on the brink of collapse.
Across the city region, 12,000 companies – 18% – are at “maximum risk” of failing, according to a study carried out by business support agency Business Link Northwest.
In response to the current situation, the Liverpool Daily Post and Business Link Northwest have joined forces to launch a campaign, Supporting Our Businesses.
The campaign will signpost the business community in the area to the information, help and practical support they will need.
Supporting Our Businesses also aims to help safeguard jobs in the area.
The figures show jobs are most at risk in small businesses with fewer than 25 employees who have so far weathered the recession but have now made all the savings they can.
Peter Watson, managing director of Business Link Northwest, said: “Businesses across Merseyside need to take direct action to deal with the tough challenges they are facing. And, through our partnership with the Liverpool Daily Post, we will be providing the help they need.
“Research shows that businesses who seek help from external sources are more likely to prosper.
“Business Link provides them with a gateway to a wide range of support and help for companies, through our team of experienced advisers.
“By working together with the Daily Post, we provide a powerful voice in the region and are determined to help businesses through the current challenging times. This will enable them to take advantage of more favourable conditions as and when the opportunities arise.”
Business Link has developed a Business Performance Index using data from global credit management company Experian which shows that a large number of businesses are actually managing their way through the recession very effectively.
However, the Merseyside figures are higher than the North West average in terms of commercial risk. Companies in Liverpool and Knowsley showed the highest percentage of businesses which are potentially in danger, while firms in Halton and St Helens were generally performing better.
