THE pandemic has affected businesses in different ways during 2020 and the festive break could provide the opportunity for business owners to reflect on what may have changed forever. Examples of this change may be: how/where we work and hold business meetings, the nature and frequency of commuting/business travel, real estate requirements (how much space is needed and the location), workforce planning/flexibility/skills, the level of capital expenditure and the criticality of IT as an essential service at the heart of all business management. Some owners may also consider whether 2021 could be a good time to seek an exit or business sale, having navigated a very challenging 2020. This is going to be an emotional decision, crystallising your equity value now into a certain cash value. It may be driven partly by the assessment of future growth opportunities, your loyalty to customers, suppliers, operating partners and the workforce.