Book Review: The Power of Geography by Tim Marshall – Insights for UK Businesses

Welcome to Another Mother's Business Book Club!

Tim Marshall’s The Power of Geography is a thought-provoking sequel to his bestseller Prisoners of Geography. This time, he turns his attention to ten regions that will shape our global future—ranging from Australia and Iran to the Sahel and space. Each chapter offers a grounded, accessible analysis of how physical landscapes, natural resources, and geopolitics intersect to influence world affairs.

We're living through a time of unrelenting global upheaval and unpredictability so Tim Marshall's book is a fantastic way to develop a lens with which to view the world in a business sense.

Marshall writes with clarity and pace, managing to distil complex geopolitical trends into something engaging and digestible. For UK readers—especially those in business—The Power of Geography is more than just an international affairs primer; it’s a timely reminder that where a place is still matters, even in a digital age.

While it’s aimed at a general audience, the book is particularly useful for UK-based SMEs looking to expand, export, or strengthen operations in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.

Three Ways UK-Based SMEs Can Use The Power of Geography

1. Shape Smarter Export Strategies

Marshall’s insights into key global regions—such as the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, and South-East Asia—can help UK businesses evaluate market potential through a geopolitical lens. For SMEs looking beyond the EU post-Brexit, understanding the stability, infrastructure, and trade relationships of potential partner countries is vital.

✦ Action Tip: Use Marshall’s geopolitical breakdowns to prioritise regions for export or partnership, focusing on those with growing infrastructure, relative political stability, and favourable trade conditions.

2. Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

One of the book’s underlying themes is how geography influences movement—of people, goods, and information. From mountainous borders to contested sea lanes, the challenges Marshall outlines can directly affect global supply chains.

✦ Action Tip: Review your existing suppliers and logistics routes. Are there choke points or regions prone to disruption? This book offers a lens through which to reassess long-term resilience and risk.

3. Rethink Domestic Strategy Through a Geographic Lens

Marshall also touches on the United Kingdom, exploring the internal dynamics of devolution, regional identity, and economic disparity. For SMEs, this is a cue to think more locally and regionally when it comes to growth.

✦ Action Tip: Look beyond London. Consider how regional strengths—from renewable energy in Scotland to logistics hubs in the Midlands—might align with your business model.

Final Thoughts: Why The Power of Geography Matters for UK Business Leaders

The Power of Geography is a vital read for anyone wanting to make sense of the world in 2025 and beyond. For UK SMEs, it’s not just educational—it’s strategic. In a world where global shocks are increasingly common, understanding the geographic and political context behind them can help futureproof your decisions.

If you’re a UK business owner, leader, or strategist, this book is absolutely worth a lead. There's never been a better time to open your eyes to the importance of geography on your business - whether you're only serving your local community or your company links with the rest of the world.

Whatever your ambitions (Total World Domination or Local Hero) a virtual assistant or an online business manager will help get you there faster. Get your house in order early and the rest will be so much easier to manage. Have a chat with Another Mother today and we'll help you to achieve all your business goals by keeping the wheels in motion wherever you're based and wherever your clients are: 0115 2000 100

Buy your copy of The Power of Geography - Amazon (Paperback)