In focus with Wurkplace

Wurkplace is a leading provider of outsourced HR and Health and Safety solutions for businesses. In this feature, we are speaking to Mark Whitfield, Business Development Director, about his response to our first Quarterly Business Report of 2024:

How have you found the last few months at Wurkplace?

It has been an exciting yet challenging period for us, as we have worked tirelessly to adapt to the ever-changing business environment. Despite the difficulties, we have managed to maintain our composure and even experience growth thanks to our innovative approach and unwavering commitment to our clients. The economic landscape continues to be challenging for businesses, has Wurkplace been affected?

While the economic landscape has presented its fair share of challenges, we have embraced change as a fundamental part of our business. We have been proactive in finding creative solutions to address the rising working wages and the financial strain felt by many of our clients. Our non-scripted advice and personalised guidance have allowed us to assist our clients in navigating these complex situations successfully.

n Mark Whitfield, Business Development Director at Wurkplace

Looking ahead, we have exciting investment plans for the upcoming year. We are set to launch our new software, a cutting-edge HR and health and safety system. This project, in collaboration with Wrexham University, has demanded significant effort and resources. However, we are confident that it will be ready for commercial use by November 24. With this innovative product in our portfolio, we anticipate substantial growth for Wurkplace in the next 12 to 24 months, securing our position in the market as the digital world continues to evolve.

with orders falling to a three-year low last seen in the midst of the Covid pandemic. This is likely to reflect weak global demand and uncertainty caused by the escalation in geo-political tensions.

• Recruitment difficulties fell to the lowest level in three years indicating an easing in labour market conditions for businesses, reflecting the slowdown in sales and orders referred to previously.

• Investment intentions in training saw a sharp decline, falling to a three-year low underlining the easing in labour market conditions.

• Inflation remains the top concern for businesses, but has eased since the alltime high seen in Q4 ‘22.

• Finance cost pressures on prices continued to rise but labour costs remain the highest contributor to businesses raising their prices.

Looking forward, how do you see the next 12 months for your business?

We understand that the next 12 months will bring their own set of challenges. The introduction of the new software and the integration of new employees and apprentices will require careful planning and execution. However, we are committed to putting our clients first and embracing change as it comes. By continuously updating our business plans and aligning them with the evolving needs of our clients, we are confident that we will not only survive but thrive in the coming months.