The Road to Working Capital Maturity – Blog Series #1
In today’s volatile business landscape, companies are under constant pressure to optimize cash flow while navigating supply chain disruptions, high interest rates, and economic uncertainty. Yet, many organizations still treat working capital as a finance function rather than a strategic priority.
Our latest research, featured in the Working Capital Forum Maturity Model Report 2025, reveals that 63% of companies remain in the early stages of working capital maturity. Without a structured approach to cash management, businesses risk operational inefficiencies and financial instability.
Why Working Capital Optimization is Critical
Companies that prioritize working capital maturity:
✅ Improve liquidity to fund growth initiatives
✅ Reduce reliance on external financing by maximizing internal cash
✅ Enhance financial resilience against market volatility
✅ Increase efficiency through data integration and process automation
The Four Stages of Working Capital Maturity
The Working Capital Maturity Model categorizes businesses into four levels:
- Onlookers (16%) – No structured strategy, disconnected data, and manual processes
- Adopters (63%) – Implement basic KPIs and financing options but lack process integration
- Transformers (21%) – Invest in advanced data analytics, multiple financing sources, and a structured approach
- Innovators (0%) – Use AI-driven forecasting, executive-aligned KPIs, and enterprise-wide cash culture
Where Does Your Business Stand?
Understanding your company’s maturity level is the first step toward optimization. Download the full WCF Maturity Model Report 2025 to benchmark your organization and uncover actionable strategies for improvement.