The Latest News from PlanA

I’m sure we can all relate to this at times. The team’s flat out, customers happy and there always seems to be something urgent happening. It feels like things are going really well and we’re on top of the world. However (drum roll!!). I've got to say that when I’ve heard that from folk (many times over the years and probably even said it myself) and while it sounds positive, it often makes me a little nervous. Because busy today can create a false sense of security about tomorrow.

Imagine this, you’ve got a business that’s ticking along nicely, profitable, stable, paying you a market salary and giving you a return as well. But here’s the question, is it an asset someone would want to buy and would they pay you what you wanted?

If you’re an accountant, AI will make information easier to process. Your judgement is going to become more valuable. That was one of the ideas that stayed with me after the #AIM2026 conference with The Gap HQ and Mark Jenkins. For accounting firms, AI and automation is already changing how your work gets done. Routine tasks are becoming faster. Reports are easier to produce. Data is easier to process. Clients can access more information themselves.

No matter your stage, new, growing, or scaling, this resource helps you pinpoint exactly where to improve. Pick your business type. Choose a focus like lead generation or margins. Find immediate steps to boost your profits. Start where it matters most!

Hutch — founder of Plan AConsulting and former NZ Police detective — joins David Altena and Rob Bull to share what 15+ years of working with Kiwi SMEs has taught him. From running petrol stations to advising businesses across New Zealand, he unpacks thepatterns holding owners back and the practical steps to break free.

Many business-owners spend significant time and money looking for new customers, while overlooking opportunities sitting right in front of them. That's the topic I'll be covering in an upcoming webinar in association with the Hawke's Bay Chamber of Commerce.

Do you ever feel like you're putting in the effort, but growth just isn’t happening? Or you have some blind spots you haven't thought of, hiding in plain sight? Before you spend another dollar or another hour, let’s pinpoint exactly what’s holding your business back.

A few years ago, I met a business owner who was frustrated (aren't we all!). The business was busy, the team was working hard, customers were buying, yet there never seemed to be enough money in the bank and every month felt like a battle. The owner's view was simple, the business wasn't making enough profit.

A practical session to help business owners review strategy and focus on what will drive growth and profit. 

You will learn how to step back from daily operations, review your strategy, and identify the priorities that will make the biggest difference to your business over the next year.

This webinar session is part of the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce Business Insights From The Experts Series.

Businesses don’t struggle because you stop working hard, they struggle because the business becomes more complex than the structure around it. At some point everything starts landing back on the your desk and things start to feel out of control.