The worst winter in decades cost small and medium-sized businesses in the UK over £7bn, according to data released by Lloyds TSB Commercial.
With snow and ice hitting deliveries and causing firms to cease trading, 70% of the 1,000 SMEs surveyed said their trade was affected. Only 23% of small businesses said that their trade was unaffected.
With the severe weather making travel nearly impossible in many places, many small firms were left with no option but to shut up shop. More than a third were forced to close down for at least a day, while one 14% had to halt business for at least five days - a full working week without any trade.
The disruption caused by the harsh winter conditions has had a direct financial impact on the bottom line for 56% SMEs. More than a third claim to have taken a hit of up to £10,000. One in eight estimates the cost to have been somewhere between £10,000 and £30,000 and 7% believe the cost could be more than £30,000.
Meanwhile, 42% said they suffered indirectly through disrupted supplies or deliveries. Businesses in Wales suffered the most direct impact - 59% - with those in the West Midlands the least affected, with just 30% affected.
"Businesses have faced a double blow over the past few months. They have had to grabble with the downturn in trade as a result of the recession, as well as the impact of the severe weather conditions," said Stephen Pegge, head of external affairs for Lloyds TSB Commercial.
