BRW ANZ Private Business Awards

2011 BRW ANZ Private Business research insights

BRW and ANZ have jointly commissioned the BRW ANZ Private Business research study since 2008, to examine the challenges, priorities and outlook for the private sector.

Nearly 600 owners and/or key decision makers of private Australian businesses were interviewed in 2011, and the key themes that have emerged this year include:

• despite a high $AUD, concerns about the outlook for the Australian economy and potential introduction of a carbon tax, 75% of businesses are predicting growth in the next three years
• there is a material increase in M&A appetite on 2010, nearly doubling to 28% in 2011
• the majority of businesses are planning to increase investment outlay in the year ahead, with the key focus being on hiring, training and development of staff
• 29% of businesses plan to increase investment in Asia in the next 3 years
• margins, costs and cash flow remain key concerns for businesses in the short term. With 23% of businesses expecting to focus on cost control rather than growth this year. Other key issues include concern around staff and economic management  
• not all businesses plan for these, 20% of businesses do not have a formal strategic plan and 50% do not have a succession plan for key roles.

Importantly, robust strategic and succession planning are crucial now. Owners should be clear on the next steps for their business and look to external expertise and non executive directors for an independent view of plans.

View or download the 2011 report below:

• ANZ Private Business Research Report 2011 (PDF 2.1MB)

BRW ANZ Private Business Awards

Now in its fourth year, the BRW ANZ Private Business Awards recognises the outstanding achievements of Private Businesses, and acknowledges the significant and valuable contribution they make to the Australian economy. The leading program of its kind in Australia, the awards are one of the most significant events on the private sector calendar each year.

To be a finalist or a winner is a great way to significantly lift your businesses profile, gain recognition within your industry, achieve exposure in BRW and boost staff morale. Each year, awards are presented at a gala dinner, attended by business leaders and high profile guest speakers.

2011 winners were announced on 25 August 2011 in the top 500 Private Companies edition of BRW. 

For more information on the awards, visit the BRW website.

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