Archive for April 2026
The Hidden Cost of Poor Pricing: Why Many Irish SMEs Undervalue Their Work
Many Irish SMEs believe pricing is a commercial decision driven by competition. In reality, it is one of the most important financial decisions a business makes. Pricing determines not only revenue, but also profitability, cash flow and long-term sustainability. The issue is that many businesses consistently undervalue their work. This does not always happen deliberately.…
Read MoreThe Real Impact of Payment Terms on Cash Flow and Business Stability
At Francis O’Kennedy & Co Accountants we know for many Irish SMEs, payment terms are seen as a routine part of doing business. In reality, they are one of the most powerful factors influencing cash flow and overall financial stability. Small changes in how and when customers pay can have a significant impact on how…
Read MorePreparing Your Company for Due Diligence: An Exit Readiness Guide
For many Irish SME owners, due diligence is seen as the final step before a sale completes. In reality, it is the stage where deals are tested, reshaped and, in some cases, abandoned altogether. Buyers do not carry out due diligence to confirm what they have been told. They use it to verify, challenge and…
Read MoreEarn Outs and Deferred Consideration: Structuring a Smart Business Sale
Earn outs and deferred consideration are often presented as solutions to valuation gaps. In practice, they are compromises. They allow deals to proceed where buyer and seller expectations do not fully align. Understanding the implications is critical. An earn out links part of the sale price to future performance. This can be attractive where there…
Read MoreFamily Business Succession: Managing Conflict and Protecting Value
Family businesses often carry strengths that other businesses do not. Strong relationships, long-term thinking and a shared sense of purpose can create resilience and stability. However, these same factors can introduce complexity when it comes to succession. The challenge is not simply transferring ownership. It is managing expectations, relationships and control. One of the most…
Read MoreWhen Shareholders Fall Out: Legal and Financial Risks for SMEs
Shareholder disputes rarely begin with major disagreements. More often, they develop gradually through misalignment, unclear expectations and poor communication. By the time the issue becomes visible, the damage is often already underway. For Irish SMEs, the impact can be significant. The immediate effect is usually operational. Decision making slows or stops. Strategic initiatives are delayed.…
Read MoreBreaking the Revenue Ceiling: Financial Barriers That Limit SME Growth
At Francis O’Kennedy & Co Accountants we know many Irish SMEs reach a point where growth slows, despite strong demand and a solid reputation. Turnover plateaus, opportunities feel harder to convert and progress becomes inconsistent. This is often described as hitting a “revenue ceiling”, and in most cases, the cause is not external. It is…
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