The Darwinian theory of natural selection can teach as much about the world of business as the world of nature.

It is clear, for example, that simply surviving is not enough. Long-term success demands that your rate of adaptation at least keeps pace with that of your competitors.

Similarly, the commercial realities of market deregulation, increasing competitiveness, changing legislation and the ever-present threat of customer churn, all conspire against a trading status quo.

But natural selection also highlights certain species that have managed to do more than simply survive. They have flourished. Once again, the parallel is clear. In today’s business world, many organisations survive. But few small or medium-sized businesses can be said to truly ‘fly’.

So what is involved in making your business flourish? As an organisation, Sheppard & Co is essentially devoted to answering that question. Working in close partnership with our clients and drafting in the expertise of partner organisations where required, we help develop strategic and operational procedures designed to breathe a new lease of life into entrepreneurial businesses.