Absence of 160 days due to business travel

Hello,

I filled in my application and I'm aware of all the rules 90/450, exercising etc.

However, I would like to ask if anyone was successful with application ~160 days in the past 12 months out of the country due to business travel? I'm a co-founder of a tech startup that have 25 high-paid employees on a payroll. To keep business alive, I had/have to travel a lot. ALL of other conditions are met except 90 day rule.

Searching in previous comments is "recommended" to wait down to 90 days and then apply. Theoretically can do that, but the business will suffer a lot.

Any practical sharing/experience will be highly appreciated!

Thanks,
Ben

Per the guidance which you have probably seen already (pages 11-12) - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.u ... _final.pdf:

"Total number of absences 101 – 179 days normally disregarded only if all other
requirements are met and
• you have demonstrated links with the UK through presence of family,
and established home and a substantial part of your estate."

Others may comment further, hopefully with personal experience.