A Q2 2018 survey released by Hitachi Capital has revealed that almost half of the agricultural sector (46%) said that unpredictable weather was holding back their business, up from 34% in Q4 2017.

The number of businesses concerned about the weather in the hospitality sector has also increased from 13% in Q2 2016 to 28% in Q2 2018.

Gavin Wraith-Carter, managing director at Hitachi Capital Business Finance, said: “Unlike larger enterprises that may have a dedicated team to address particular external threats to the business, small businesses must cope with the environment within which they operate.

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“The trick is to stay one step ahead, and this comes via long-term planning rather than short-term fixes.”

One in five of businesses in Scotland (21%) reported difficulty with unforeseeable weather, up from 5% in Q2 2016, with increases also in Wales (Q2 2018: 16%, Q2 2016: 8%) and the South West (Q2 2018: 15%, Q2 2016: 10%).

“At Hitachi Capital, we help businesses work through their problems, equipping them with what they may need – be it physical assets, financial support or customised advice,” Gavin added.

“Through our years of experience, we know that small businesses have the agility to adapt in difficult circumstances – often faster and easier than their larger counterparts.

“They have the ability to weather storms, sometimes literally.”