#9 2026 OUTLOOK - What SME Business Owners Can Expect This Year
Wed Feb 04 2026
One month down in 2026 and business owners continue to face uncertainty, rising costs, and increasing pressure to make the right decisions at speed.
In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, Rob Brown is joined by Peter Gallanagh, UK & Ireland CEO at Azets, to unpack what the year is likely to bring for SME leaders.
Peter reflects on the structural challenges businesses are carrying forward, from cost pressures and access to finance to automation, AI and leadership strain. He explains why clarity, scenario planning and strong adviser relationships will be critical in helping businesses stay resilient and confident.
The conversation also explores what strong leadership needs to look like in 2026, how owners can balance caution with growth, and why advisers who understand the full picture of a business are best placed to help navigate what comes next.
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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.
Contact us at podcast@azets.co.uk.
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One month down in 2026 and business owners continue to face uncertainty, rising costs, and increasing pressure to make the right decisions at speed. In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, Rob Brown is joined by Peter Gallanagh, UK & Ireland CEO at Azets, to unpack what the year is likely to bring for SME leaders. Peter reflects on the structural challenges businesses are carrying forward, from cost pressures and access to finance to automation, AI and leadership strain. He explains why clarity, scenario planning and strong adviser relationships will be critical in helping businesses stay resilient and confident. The conversation also explores what strong leadership needs to look like in 2026, how owners can balance caution with growth, and why advisers who understand the full picture of a business are best placed to help navigate what comes next. +++ 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. Contact us at podcast@azets.co.uk.