I am amazed at how resilient some commercial organizations can be in times of recession.  They are aggressive and still meet profitability parameters, despite setbacks.  However, they are large with a growing portfolio, strong workforce, diverse markets and accumulated reserves to last during these times. 

For us as small fair trade organizations, survival is of importance.  We did not have to retrench any staff but had to hold salaries for the year 2009-2010 which was well accepted.  Our export sales were hardest hit from our customers in France, UK and Spain.  Strangely, all our American customers were able to do sustained levels of business with us.  In the domestic market, we felt the downturn with overall less purchases in all our stores.  We have had to struggle with cash flows, amended budgets and price negotiations to survive the downtrend, and hope to see 2010-2011 a better year!