It seems certain that this is going to be a tough year for most businesses.

That means cash will be at a premium. Those with cash reserves will be most likely to survive – and possibly pick up bargains that will give a competitive advantage when things improve.

It is actually fairly easy to get ready cash – so long as one is willing to pay the price.

Here are some methods, but – be warned – each has its drawbacks:

1   Fixed term loans – mean paying higher interest, but offer more security than overdrafts that can be cancelled at any moment;

2   Selling shares – the price being dilution of control as well as dilution of profit;

3   Selling operations that are unprofitable or irrelevant to core business – focus on your real business;

4   Selling surplus property and equipment – and leasing back where necessary;

5   Selling surplus stores – most businesses tie up too much cash in lax stock management;

6   Selling generally – now is not the time to cut back on marketing, but, on the contrary, be more aggressive in generating sales, especially when the removal of competitors will be leaving gaps in the market.