LANCASHIRE firms have to wait an average of 46 days to get their bills paid.
The results of a survey come as Prime Minister John Major pledged action to deal with late payers.
Companies in the county's textile sector have the longest wait - almost 90 days - according to Lancashire & Lakeland plc, a report covering the accounts of the area's top 100 companies.
The construction sector also suffers with an average of 60 days followed by services (55 days), industrials (50 days), food and agriculture (32 days) and retail (20 days).
"Late payment can be a serious problem," said Peter Brown, managing partner of the Lancashire office of KPMG who compiled the report.
"Larger companies frequently employ more sophisticated debt collection measures than small businesses and can also exact more influence when it comes to getting their money."
Mr Brown advised companies to be specific about terms with suppliers and customers.
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