Business has faced its most difficult year, with tough decisions and nimble action required to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic.
The virus, and lockdowns to manage it, have shrunk our economy by 11%, and recovery will be gradual at best.
By the end of February, Hamilton Shipping in Belfast was reporting a slowdown in its deliveries of Chinese-made goods like curtains and sofas as a result of shutdowns in China, where the virus originated.
From March to December, businesses here faced lockdowns beginning with a UK-wide "stay at home" order on March 23.
The cessation of international travel and a slowdown in consumer demand were quickly felt in the hospitality sector.