SME’s And The Olympic Games

With only 12 games to go to the Olympic Games there is a buzz of excitement around London. Despite delays at Heathrow, the closure of the M4 and staffing issues over security at G4S, London needs to be open for business during the Olympics. The large number of visitors to the UK pose an exciting opportunity for British SME’s. 

Neil Crockett of Cisco comments that 78% of SME’s in Canada wished they took further advantage of opportunities from the Olympics in Vancouver. Don’t let the same apply to you. 

Businesses will need to consider the impact of travel restrictions around London during the games. The closure of a number of lanes for the Olympic routes will affect many roads throughout London and businesses may well have to rearrange delivery times with suppliers. SME’s should also consider flexible working as this can provide significant benefit during the Games. Businesses that change their working practises may well be able to save costs during this time. 

A number of businesses have already benefitted from the Olympics. The Olympic Torch for example has been designed and manufactured by SME companies in the UK and looks spectacular. According to the Evening Standards Business Connections, approximately 20% of Olympic contracts were awarded to SME’s. The Olympics is the biggest show ever watched on TV will provide significant opportunities for companies throughout the UK. 

Britain’s Olympic bid was won in 2005 under Tony Blair’s Labour government who pipped the French to be awarded the world’s most prestigious event in 2012. The Olympic stadia have been delivered on time and under budget with the spectacular Velodrome and Acquatics Center a display of excellence in British engineering. The Games will be great for London with many exciting promotional events taking place throughout the city. Enjoy the games!!