News

Why Irish SMEs Should Review Their Business Continuity Plans Before 2027

18th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that business continuity planning should not be treated as something reserved for large corporations. For Irish SMEs, having a clear plan for dealing with disruption can make the difference between a temporary setback and a serious financial crisis. As 2027 approaches, bus…

The Financial Impact of Late Supplier Deliveries on Irish Businesses

17th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that reliable suppliers are essential to the smooth running of any Irish business. When deliveries arrive late, the consequences can extend far beyond inconvenience. Delays can interrupt production, leave staff unable to work, cause missed customer deadlines and create une…

Top 5 Questions SMEs Should Ask Before Entering a Franchise Agreement

16th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that buying into a franchise can provide an SME with a recognised brand, an established business model and access to valuable support. However, a franchise is not a guaranteed route to success. It involves financial commitments, contractual obligations and restrictions tha…

Why Customer Concentration Risk Deserves More Attention from Irish Business Owners

15th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that having a strong customer base is one of the foundations of a successful business, but relying too heavily on one or two customers can create a serious financial vulnerability. Customer concentration risk occurs when a significant proportion of a company’s revenu…

Top 5 Financial Checks Irish SMEs Should Complete Before Taking on a New Premises

14th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that taking on new premises is a major business decision that should be based on detailed financial planning rather than enthusiasm alone. Whether you are moving into your first commercial property, expanding into a larger unit or opening another location, the decision can…

Top 5 Year-End Financial Decisions Irish SME Owners Should Not Leave Until January

11th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that the final months of the year are an important opportunity for Irish SME owners to review their financial position and make informed decisions before the calendar turns. Leaving key financial matters until January can mean missed opportunities, unnecessary cash flow pr…

Why Irish SMEs Should Review Their Insurance Cover as the Business Grows

10th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that insurance should keep pace with the business it is designed to protect. As an Irish SME grows, its employees, turnover, equipment, premises, customers, suppliers and financial commitments can all change. Insurance cover that was appropriate when the business was small…

The Financial Risks of Expanding Into a New Market Without Proper Planning

9th September 2026

At Derek Madden we believe that growth should be built on preparation rather than assumption. Expanding into a new market can create significant opportunities for an Irish SME, but entering a new region, customer segment or industry without understanding the financial implications can put pressure o…

How to Prepare Your Irish SME for Higher Costs and Tighter Margins in 2027

8th September 2026

We here at Derek Madden believe that preparing for higher costs should begin before those costs start putting pressure on your margins. For Irish SMEs, changes in wages, supplier prices, financing, insurance, energy and other overheads can quickly affect profitability. Preparing for 2027 now gives b…

Top 5 Signs Your Business May Need a More Formal Budget for 2027

7th September 2026

We here at Derek Madden believe that a business does not need to be large or complex to benefit from a formal budget. As 2027 approaches, many Irish SMEs will be making decisions about hiring, investment, pricing, borrowing and growth. Without a clear financial plan, those decisions can become react…