ONLY 14 per cent of businesses in the North West believe they will benefit from the 2012 Olympics, according to an independent report.

The study has been published by Close Invoice Finance, which canvasses the views of business owner managers across the UK and Ireland.

The research showed a north-south divide in attitude, with 30% in the south expecting a positive impact to business compared with only 16% in the north.

David Thomson, CEO of Close Invoice Finance said; “It’s difficult to pinpoint why these figures are so low.

"Perhaps the complex tendering process is proving a hindrance, or it could be that larger companies are dominating, particularly when it comes to the big construction contracts.”

However, Mr Thomson states that it’s not too late to secure extra business.

“There should be many ways to benefit from the Olympic Games.

"To stage an event on this scale, a wide range of products, services and resources are required.

“Think positively and creatively about how you could get involved and don’t rely on the assumption that business will automatically increase.

“As ever, companies with a healthy cash flow will be best placed to take advantage of any opportunities that come their way,” he added.