In today’s always-on world, internet downtime is not just inconvenient; it is expensive. For small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), even a short disruption can mean lost revenue, missed opportunities and frustrated clients.

📉 The Real Cost of Downtime

UK businesses lost over £3.7 billion in 2023 due to internet failures. That is more than 50 million hours of lost productivity (source: Beaming). SMEs were hit hardest, with an average of 3 to 4 outages and 19 hours of downtime each the equivalent of losing two full working days every year.

For 15 percent of UK businesses,  around 850,000 companies,  the financial impact begins the moment the connection drops. Whether it is processing payments, accessing cloud systems, or simply responding to customers, the cost of being offline adds up fast.

🏥 The Risk Is Real Across Every Sector

Imagine a law firm unable to access case files during a court deadline, or an accountant losing access to cloud-based tax software during filing season.

A warehouse without internet cannot track shipments, update delivery statuses, or communicate with drivers. This leads to delays and unhappy customers.

Many rely on digital care planning tools, medication systems, and video calls with families. Downtime can disrupt care and isolate residents.

Despite this, 23 percent of SMEs still don’t have a backup connection in place. That figure rises to 38 percent for micro-businesses. That is a risky position when your operations depend on staying connected.

✅ The Solution: Secondary Connectivity

A backup internet connection also known as a failover line automatically activates if your main connection fails. It is a simple, cost-effective way to:

• Keep your business running
• Protect your revenue
• Maintain trust with clients, customers, and residents.

🔌 Stay Connected with HBT Communications

At HBT Communications, we help SMEs across sectors build resilient networks that support their performance and reputation.

📞 Let’s talk on hello@hbtcommunications.com or call 02476 867400 about setting up a backup internet connection that fits your needs and budget. Your business deserves better than downtime.