SMALL firms are failing to keep up with the revolution in doing business on the internet, according to an accountant.

David Evans, a partner at the Blackburn office, of Kidsons Impey said firms were too slow to realise the benefits of e-commerce.

"Although more and more businesses are becoming au fait with e-commerce it still only accounts for a small percentage.

"There is still a long way to go before businesses are using the internet as second nature," he explained.

"At this present rate, trading regularly on the internet will remain an infant industry for years."

Mr Evans said firms needed to invest time and money in the internet to maximise the opportunities it provides. Act now and get the internet know-how before it is too late and you find your competitors are stealing business from you," he advised.

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