It’s estimated that less than a quarter of us will stick to any New Year’s resolutions we make. So, instead of coming up with more excuses to skip your 6 am spin class, grab some leftover Christmas chocolates and a cuppa, and set yourself some New Business Resolutions you can actually stick to!

The New Year is the perfect time to reflect on your achievements over the past 12 months while looking ahead to your business’s future goals. After a refreshing festive break, business owners should seize the opportunity to enter 2025 with a clear strategic direction and a positive mindset. It’s also a great time to consider the legal issues your business faced last year, as well as those you’ve been meaning to address but never quite got around to.

If you need inspiration for your New Business Resolutions, here are a few ideas:

1. Review Your Standard Terms and Conditions

If your business is still operating with T&Cs drafted at its inception—or hastily cobbled together when legal costs weren’t in the budget—now is the time to review them. Ensure they are properly tailored to meet your current business needs and provide adequate protection.

2. Update Customer and Supplier Contracts

Do you use bespoke contracts with customers or suppliers? Take the opportunity to review and update them to reflect current practices. A well-drafted contract clearly defines the terms of your relationships while safeguarding your business.

3. Promote and Protect Your Brand and Products

Every business has a brand to promote—and protect. If you trade under a brand name or use a specific logo, consider securing your intellectual property with trademarks, copyrights, or patents.

4. Review Data and IT Security

Ensure your hardware and IT systems are protected with robust security measures. Review your processes to confirm compliance with data protection legislation and verify that your privacy policies are up to date.

5. Broaden Your Business Horizons

If you plan to engage with new partners this year to expand your business, ensure you have the appropriate confidentiality agreements in place from the outset to protect sensitive discussions.

Get Expert Support

As experienced commercial lawyers, we can help you stick to your New Business Resolutions and set your business on the right path for the year ahead.

The Commercial & IP Team at Berry Smith offers expert advice on drafting, reviewing, and refining commercial contracts, as well as general business and commercial guidance.

If you’d like more information on the topics raised in this article or any other aspect of commercial law, contact us on 029 2034 5511 or email commercial@berrysmith.com.

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