Owner Managed Businesses call for stronger government support

Article by Bishop Fleming

Bishop Fleming is a partner for Growth Forge 2025, a business acceleration programme for ambitious tech founders. Learn more here.

A new survey of 276 owner managed businesses (OMBs) across the UK has revealed growing frustration with the level of government support available to them, with 91% of respondents rating it as poor or very poor. 

The findings come from the 2025 Owner Managed Business Research Report, published by the Association of Practising Accountants (APA).

The report highlights the pressures facing the sector, which represents a vital engine of the UK economy. Despite tentative progress on international trade talks with the US and Europe, growth remains elusive for many OMBs. Rising costs and uncertainty continue to dominate the business landscape.

Key Findings

Sector Confidence Under Strain

While 46% of businesses believe they are in better shape than a year ago, this figure has slipped from 49% in 2023. Concerns around rising employment costs, supply chain pressures and the drag of regulatory and economic uncertainty are undermining investment plans and long-term growth ambitions.

What This Means for OMBs

The findings underline the importance of forward planning and resilience for owner managed businesses. While government action may be slow to arrive, OMBs can take proactive steps to protect and position themselves for growth:

• Review cost structures and investment plans to ensure flexibility in uncertain conditions.
• Explore alternative funding and tax reliefs that may support capital investment despite wider challenges.
• Strengthen business continuity planning, particularly around cyber security, supply chains and energy risk.
• Seek professional advice on navigating employment costs, tax changes and international trading complexities.

How Professional Advisers Can Help

Owner managed businesses don’t have to face these challenges alone. Professional advisers can:

• Provide up-to-date insight on tax changes, reliefs and incentives.
• Support with scenario planning to assess the impact of economic headwinds.
• Help identify efficiency improvements and funding options.
• Act as a sounding board to ensure OMBs remain agile and investment-ready.

A Call to Action

Owner managed businesses remain a cornerstone of the UK economy. By combining pragmatic government support with sound professional advice, they can build resilience and unlock new opportunities for growth, even in uncertain times.

Audit Partner, Mid-markets and Responsible Business Lead, Fleur Lewis, said:

“The APA survey shines a light on the real challenges facing owner-managed businesses at the moment, including rising supply chain costs and wage inflation.  These pressures could intensify with an Autumn Budget that is likely to increase taxes at this critical time.

As one of the leading business advisors and auditors to Owner Managed Businesses in the South West we have a wealth of experience supporting this vital sector of the UK economy. With our deep understanding of these businesses’ unique pressures, we are well-positioned to help navigate these challenges and drive sustainable growth.”

Supporting your business at every stage

If you’re looking for expert guidance to help your business overcome these challenges, get in touch with our team today. Our experience with leading owner-managed businesses in the South West means we can provide the strategic insights you need to succeed in this evolving landscape.

Download the complete APA Survey here