It’s no exaggeration to say that the global markets have been incredibly turbulent over the last week or two. The recent tariffs imposed and then paused by the USA against hundreds of countries around the world have created ripple effects of uncertainty extending far across the global supply chain. These trade wars threaten to impact inflation, margins, and the payoff periods of large capital infrastructure, just to name a few.

But while the headlines may feel overwhelming, uncertainty doesn’t have to mean instability. In fact, some of the most successful companies have been built or reinvented during times of turbulence.

So how can SMEs weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side?

Here are a few practical strategies to help your business not just survive, but thrive, in uncertain times.

Focus on what you can control

The first step in navigating uncertainty is shifting your focus. You can’t control international policy, inflation, or how the market reacts. But you can control how your business responds.

Start with your internal operations. Are your costs under control? Are you maximizing cash flow? Can you renegotiate with suppliers or restructure your product offering to reduce risk?

These aren’t flashy moves, but they’re powerful. Keeping a close eye on your numbers and identifying inefficiencies is a key defence against external volatility.

If you don’t already have a reliable rolling forecast in place, now is the time to build one. Regularly updated forecasts can help you make quick, informed decisions in response to shifting conditions and give you peace of mind knowing that you're steering the ship with clarity.

Strengthen your relationships

In uncertain times, trust becomes one of your most valuable assets.

That means keeping open lines of communication with your employees, customers, and suppliers. Be transparent about what’s changing, what you’re doing to respond, and how it might affect them. People appreciate honesty and they remember how you made them feel when things were tough.

This is also an opportunity to double down on customer loyalty. If you can’t compete on price due to rising costs, look for ways to compete on service, speed, or value. Remind your existing customers why they chose you in the first place.

Use valuation as a strategic tool

We’re obviously biased here, but one of the most overlooked and yet most impactful ways to manage uncertainty is actually to get a professional valuation of your business.

A valuation isn’t just for when you’re planning to sell. It’s a powerful strategic tool that can help you understand your true position in the market, identify hidden strengths and risks, and make better-informed decisions.

At bizval, we work with SMEs every day to uncover insights that go beyond a headline number. A good valuation report helps you:

• Benchmark your performance and highlight areas for improvement

• Understand how different risk factors (like supply chain disruption or currency volatility) affect your business value

• Set realistic goals for growth and funding

• Build credibility with investors, lenders, and potential partners

And perhaps most importantly, it gives you clarity which is priceless when everything else feels uncertain. If you're feeling unsure about the future, a valuation is a great way to ground your next steps in solid data.

Look for the opportunity in the risk

Uncertainty forces change. And change, while uncomfortable, often reveals opportunities that wouldn’t have been visible before.

This might be the right time to diversify your supplier base. Or to expand into a new market while competitors are pulling back. Or to invest in technology that improves your operational resilience.

Keep in mind that some of your competitors may be slowing down or hesitating — which gives you a chance to step forward. With the right mix of caution and confidence, you can gain market share and position your business for long-term success.

Play the long game

It’s easy to get stuck in survival mode when the outlook is murky. But the most successful SMEs keep one eye on the horizon.

If you have long-term goals – whether it’s selling the business, expanding into new markets, or transitioning leadership to the next generation – don’t lose sight of them. In fact, this is the perfect time to review and refine your long-term strategy.

What does a more resilient version of your business look like? What would need to change for you to thrive regardless of what the market throws at you?

Answering those questions now can help you build a stronger, more valuable business in the future.

We're here to help

No one can predict the future. But with the right mindset and tools, you can face it with confidence.

Whether you're navigating new tariffs, dealing with local economic shifts, or just want a clearer picture of your business’s value, bizval is here to support you.

Let’s turn uncertainty into opportunity – together.

Read our 2025 UK SMB Report

Curious how current market forces are reshaping exit strategies for UK businesses? Our latest report unpacks the evolving M&A environment for companies in the £2m-£25m turnover bracket. With fresh data-driven insights and practical guidance on navigating today's fast-changing market conditions, this regional analysis provides valuable perspective for owners planning their next move.

Click here to discover the trends that could impact your business valuation and strategic options in 2025.