How to adapt to economic challenges in 2026?

The year 2026 continues to test Ukrainian entrepreneurs for resilience. Economic instability due to wartime conditions, power outages, changing consumer purchasing power amid labor shortages, inflation, and devaluation will continue to hinder the normal operation and development of businesses in Ukraine. 

However, thanks to modern software solutions, entrepreneurs engaged in trade can remain flexible and prepared for any changes. 

Process automation, utilizing new sales channels, and improving customer service — these are the minimum steps available to every entrepreneur. The key is to use existing tools and resources effectively. 

Let’s explore practical strategies for adapting businesses to crisis conditions that will help you not only survive but also grow.

1. Diversification of products and sales channels

Diversification is one way to reduce business risks. If you only sell one type of product or operate in a single niche, consider expanding your offerings.

Case study: Clothing stores in Vinnytsia

Olena, the owner of a women's clothing store chain who has been using Torgsoft for four years, decided to introduce an additional product line — selling accessories (bags, jewelry). This allowed her to increase the average check by 30%, as customers purchased not only clothing but also complementary items.

Recommendations from Torgsoft:

• Add complementary products to your assortment. For example, if you sell electronics, offer accessories such as power banks or phone cases.

• Expand your sales channels: start selling on marketplaces like Rozetka or Prom.ua if you haven't done so yet.

Inventory management features in Torgsoft: The program allows you to quickly add new product categories, track all inventory with various attributes, analyze which products are in high demand, and identify slow-moving stock. Automation reduces manual work and ensures better control over the assortment, minimizing business risks.

2. Emphasizing digitalization: online stores and automation

Today, more customers prefer online shopping. Even small stores can significantly increase sales by launching their own online store or selling via social media.

Case study: A family-owned children's store in Kyiv

Kyiv-based entrepreneur Stas, who previously focused solely on offline sales, launched a simple online store using Torgsoft's ready-made platform. Within four months, this helped increase revenue by 50%, as customers could order items for delivery or reserve purchases online.

Recommendations from Torgsoft:

• Create an online store with the ready-made Torgsoft Online Market module.

• Actively promote your business via social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) using paid advertising.

• Use the CRM module to retain customers through promotions, bonuses, and personalized service.

Digital solutions from Torgsoft: online store setup in one day, synchronization of accounting software with an e-commerce website, marketplaces, and CRM system.

3. Seeking additional opportunities

Global demand for Ukrainian products is growing, particularly for authentic or high-quality goods. Additionally, many international organizations support businesses developing in Ukraine. 

If you want to expand within Ukraine, consider government support programs: the "Affordable Loans 5-7-9%" program for small and medium businesses; "National Cashback" for domestic manufacturers; and private humanitarian initiatives to finance enterprises affected by the war. 

Case study: Home textile manufacturer from Kharkiv

Oleh, the owner of a small handmade textile production business in Kharkiv, applied for a grant from the international organization Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation. The grant supports the purchase of equipment and materials, allowing the company to expand its range with eco-friendly fabrics. Oleh also started selling his products through Etsy — an international marketplace where handmade goods and high-quality products are highly valued.

Recommendations from Torgsoft:

• Look for partners both in the domestic market and among international players: participate in state programs and foreign business support initiatives in Ukraine.

• Expand to international platforms such as Amazon or Etsy.

Torgsoft capabilities: the program enables foreign currency transactions management, adjusts for exchange rate fluctuations, and generates financial reports, making it convenient for working with international partners. 

4. Focus on customer orientation

Customer orientation is a key success factor. Even small stores can stand out through a personalized approach and convenient service.

Case study: Grocery store in Cherkasy

Store owner Maryna introduced a loyalty card system using Torgsoft. This encouraged customers to return, as they accumulated points for purchases. Additionally, the store started sending SMS messages with personalized discounts. As a result, the customer base grew by 25% in six months.

Recommendations from Torgsoft:

• Implement various loyalty programs to retain customers.

• Set up personalized messages for customers about promotions or birthdays.

Marketing features in Torgsoft: The "Marketing" mode allows you to create different types of promotions, set discounts for products or customer groups, develop bonus programs, and discount schemes; personalize and automate mass messaging via Viber, SMS, and email, and track customer loyalty.

Entrepreneurs who use modern tools like Torgsoft's business automation software and actively adapt to changes have a great chance not only to sustain their business but also to take it to a new level. The key is to remain flexible, think strategically, and embrace change.

5. Energy efficiency and cost optimization

The rising cost of energy resources and the need to save electricity have become a significant burden for many businesses. At the same time, this encourages entrepreneurs to implement energy-efficient solutions that can reduce costs in the long run.

Case study: Coffee shop in Dnipro

The owner of a small coffee shop, Kyrylo, installed LED lighting and an energy-efficient coffee machine. Although this required an initial investment, within a year, electricity costs were reduced by 40%.

Recommendations from Torgsoft:

• Review which technologies in your business can be made more energy-efficient.

• Use Torgsoft software for precise tracking of expenses and revenue to identify major cost areas and properly allocate business income for savings.

6. Flexibility in financial planning

During times of crisis, it is essential not only to generate profit but also to manage resources wisely: regularly track cash flow, reserve funds, analyze financial transactions, and assess expense categories. 

Recommendations from Torgsoft:

• Create a realistic budget with a reserve fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Use financial reports in Torgsoft to analyze the profitability of individual products, track customer purchasing activity, and avoid unnecessary expenses.

• Seek additional financing through partnerships, crowdfunding, or microloans for businesses.

Financial management in Torgsoft: monitoring income and expenses, tracking business cash flows, report generation on sales, detailed analytics of financial transactions, profitability, and expenses; automatic inventory calculations to avoid excess costs and more accurately plan the product assortment. 

Entrepreneurs who utilize modern tools such as Torgsoft's business automation software and actively adapt to changes have a high chance of not only sustaining their business but also taking it to the next level. The key is to stay flexible, think strategically, and embrace change.