BUSINESSES in the North West are missing out on profits by ignoring strategic advice, it is claimed. Half of the small and medium-sized companies surveyed by Business Link said they shunned the experts -- even though those seeking and using advice typically made double the profits of those that did not.

According to The Advice Dividend report, businesses that did act on strategic advice typically made gross profits of £216,000 last year.

By comparison, businesses that did not take advice made £109,000 over the same period. Donna Edwards, executive director of operations at Business Link North Manchester said: "We find that some businesses still doubt the value of advice and what it does for the bottom line.

Businesses looking for strategic business advice can contact Business Link North Manchester on 0845 608 3388.