Small firms that have remained unaffected by the ongoing effects of the credit crunch provide proof that such businesses can survive a recession, it has been suggested.
David Molian, lecturer in the Bettany Centre at Cranfield School of Management made his comments on behalf of Plantronics' The Rise of The Super SME: A Guide to Plain Sailing Through the Recession.
He said such firms are often referred to as 'gazelles'.
"These gazelles are found in all advanced economies. It's a small minority of smaller businesses that outperform the rest and they do it in boom and they do it in bust."
Mr Molian explained there are a number of methods by which gazelles ensure they flourish - even during a period of recession.
Firstly, they are "talented entrepreneurs", he said.
Secondly, they avoid some of the "classic" pitfalls that some small businesses can be affected by, such as diversifying too early.
They also tend to find a profitable niche opportunity and focus on improving their presence in that area and become better and better at what they do, Mr Molian added.
Concluding, he suggested that they grow by finding new clients and then develop around their core business.
According to The Rise of The Super SME: A Guide to Plain Sailing Through the Recession study, just under two-thirds (62 per cent) of SMEs have never faced an economic slowdown before and are looking - with increasing urgency - for advice and insight on business decisions.
