There’s no hiding how bleak 2020 was and early signs are that 2021 is shaping up to be equally challenging amid some grim Christmas trading figures and predictions for further job losses. 

Yet it’s also important to focus on some positives. Yes, Christmas was bad, but not as bad as many had feared. Grocery sales continued to soar while online provided a lifeline for many retailers classed as ‘non-essential’.

Had the second wave of the virus peaked in December, things would have been even tougher for businesses, but as it is the greatest pain has been reserved for January.