2008 PRESS RELEASE
How to become a downturn thriver
24 September 2008
Analysis of past economic trends reveals that five per cent of businesses thrive during periods of recession. So, what is the difference between the credit crunch 'thrivers' and the downturn survivers? "Crucially, thrivers don’t just baton down the hatches and pray for sunnier economic weather," says Quadrant's senior designer Eve Waldron.
"Thrivers understand that a business needs to respond rapidly to changing markets. They are the kind of organisations that have an energetic and positive culture but also understand the need for a working environment which will inspire innovation and motivation. That's where the design world can really make a difference."
But with fewer new builds and tighter, carefully-controlled budgets for refurbishments, Waldron predicts that designers and specifiers will be focussing on quality and value for money. "At Quadrant we're known for innovative design, but we've always combined that with genuine quality. We use the only 12-gauge tufting machine in Europe, that means greater density and long-term wear. In short, great value."
But even that may not be enough. Business gurus also point to the need for improving customer satisfaction. A move back to good old fashioned customer service that isn't handled via a call centre half way round the world and an opportunity to add real value. "Exceeding our clients' expectations has always been our goal," says Quadrant's managing director James Scully, "now it's the norm".
