Why protecting cashflow matters this winter

Winter disruption is nothing new for Ireland’s construction sector. But this year, businesses are facing more than difficult weather and shorter working days.

Rising costs, supply chain disruption, geopolitical uncertainty and changing payment behaviour are creating a more complex trading environment. New Atradius research reveals just how significant those pressures could be for businesses across the construction supply chain.

Payment delays are a major concern

One of the clearest findings is the pressure businesses expect on cashflow.

92% of businesses surveyed are concerned about delayed customer payments affecting their business this winter, while 36% say cashflow pressure is typically worse during the winter months.

At the same time, rising costs remain firmly on the agenda. 82% are concerned about rising energy prices over the next 12 months, and 32% identify higher fuel or energy costs as the biggest business risk this winter.

Businesses are preparing, but gaps remain

Many construction suppliers are already taking action. 36% have increased stock levels, another 36% have updated their business continuity plans, and 33% have reviewed their cashflow forecasts ahead of winter.

However, the research also highlights an opportunity to strengthen financial risk management. While 27% regularly monitor customer payment behaviour, just 10% of businesses surveyed use trade credit insurance.

The findings point to an important lesson for the months ahead: operational resilience alone may not be enough. Understanding who you're trading with, identifying potential payment problems early and protecting cashflow are becoming increasingly important as external pressures grow.

Discover the full findings

The Protecting cashflow this winter report explores the challenges facing Ireland’s construction supply chain in greater detail, combining exclusive research with real-world business case studies and expert insight.

Download the full report to discover how construction businesses are preparing for disruption, managing payment risk and strengthening their financial resilience this winter.