#23 Q1 2026 BAROMETER - Why SMEs Still Back Themselves

This episode of Fresh Perspectives goes behind the numbers of the latest Azets Barometer to explore how SME leaders are navigating uncertainty, resilience, investment and growth in 2026.

Rob Brown is joined by Peter Gallanagh, UK&I CEO at Azets, to unpack the findings from Azets’ quarterly business sentiment survey and explain what they reveal about the mindset of UK business owners right now.

We explore why many SMEs remain cautious about the wider economy while still backing their own businesses to grow, how leaders are responding to geopolitical and economic uncertainty and why agility and fast decision-making are becoming more important than ever.

Peter explains why resilience is no longer only about cash reserves, how succession planning is moving higher up the agenda and why businesses are still struggling to turn AI ambition into practical implementation.

We also discuss labour costs, foreign investment, leadership confidence and the growing need for accountants and advisers to act as true strategic partners rather than compliance providers.

This episode offers practical insight for SME owners trying to stay resilient, move faster and make smarter decisions in an increasingly volatile business environment.

You can connect with Peter Gallanagh on LinkedIn.

Download the latest Azets Barometer here: Azets Barometer Q1 2026.

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Fresh Perspectives is the business podcast from Azets where advisers, experts and leaders share fresh thinking to help you move forward with confidence.

Each episode explores real-world challenges and opportunities for business owners and entrepreneurs, from finance and growth to leadership and technology.

Formerly Bang The Drum, the show continues Azets’ commitment to sharing practical advice, new ideas and inspiring stories from across the business community.

This podcast has featured at #1 in the Apple Podcast charts for Management podcasts and #19 in the Apple Podcasts charts for Business podcasts.

Follow and subscribe to Fresh Perspectives on your favourite player, leave a review and share it with others who you think might enjoy it.

Find more about Azets at www.azets.com.

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