• Swindon & Wiltshire Economy
• Tuesday May 19 2026

Businesses press pause on investment plans to absorb latest global shock

More than two-fifths of the region’s businesses say a combination of supply chain pressures and higher energy and fuel costs are among their biggest challenges as they grapple with the impact of conflict in the Middle East, according to new research from accountancy and advisory firm BDO LLP.

The bi-monthly survey of mid-sized businesses with revenues between £10 million and £500 million, has revealed that supply chain pressures including material delays and costs, stock shortages, and suppliers folding were a top concern for nearly a quarter of Central South business leaders (24 per cent) as they navigate this latest economic shock.

Mid-market companies are a key segment of the regional and UK economy, contributing more than £1.8 trillion in revenues and accounting for one in three private sector jobs. However, the current geopolitical climate could impact future growth plans within the region.

As a result of ongoing uncertainty, more than half of mid-sized companies (58 per cent) in Central South intend to halt or reduce investment as they wait for the situation to stabilise.

These pressures could leave companies making difficult decisions behind the scenes. Businesses are considering steps such as increasing customer costs (21 per cent) and delaying or reducing hiring plans (27 per cent) as a result.

However, a re-evaluation of priorities could also present growth opportunities, as companies seek to shore up their supply chains in light of ongoing pressures.

Nearly a quarter of business leaders in the region are considering onshoring or nearshoring (24 per cent), in a move that could provide a boost to Central South manufacturing, with one in ten (12 per cent) looking to prioritise UK-based suppliers.

Last week, BDO’s monthly Business Trends report revealed that its Output Index had risen slightly in April, fuelling suggestions that businesses were frontloading resources ahead of suspected volatility expected later in the year.

As a result of these challenges, business leaders in the region are looking to the government for additional support in case of further escalation. Popular policy or support measures for the next 12 months include transport and fuel cost relief, energy costs relief and dedicated supply disruption support – like the creation of new grants for businesses that are materially impacted.

Steve Le Bas, regional managing partner at BDO in Central South, said: “The mid-market is vital to Central South and wider UK growth. These companies are an overlooked engine of our economy, but instead of focusing their sights on expansion, they are struggling to absorb the latest economic shock in an uncertain global and political backdrop.

“Mounting pressures around energy, fuel costs and supply chains, which were issues affecting businesses even before the conflict in Iran, are only adding to the sustained feeling of uncertainty amongst regional business leaders.

“The government must ensure it listens to the wants and needs of Central South business leaders in this crucial segment. Addressing these challenges head on could be the key to providing the stability needed to reignite the region’s economic growth.”