A successful 2008 for TaxAssist Accountants

Despite the economic downturn business is going strong for TaxAssist Accountants with the launch of its 70th shop front franchise as well as its first Irish operation

TaxAssist Accountants, the UK's leading accountancy and taxation service for small businesses, recently celebrated its 12th Annual Conference in style at Chesford Grange in Kenilworth. While covering the current market issues concerning the impending recession, the event remained a motivational and upbeat day - reinforcing the message that TaxAssist Accountants is a good sound business offering services that will continue to be in demand throughout these uncertain times.

The Annual Conference attracted the largest turnout ever of its national network of accountants with over 350 attendees, sponsors and branded service partners. Guests celebrated in style with a formal black tie Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony. The awards were presented to the winners by comedian Ronnie Corbett. 'We were delighted to celebrate our conference with Ronnie Corbett, our entire network and their staff,' comments Chief Executive Karl Sandall. 'It's always an enjoyable event and provides a great opportunity for franchisees to get to know each other, share ideas and experiences and to reinforce the message that TaxAssist Accountants is now a major force to be reckoned with.'

70 SHOP'FRONT'PREMISES'NATIONWIDE
TaxAssist Accountants provides small businesses with expert advice tailored specifically for their needs, from the completion of end of year accounts and tax returns to payroll, VAT and bookkeeping. This is complemented by a wide range of additional services for small business clients, including debt recovery, independent financial advice and personnel (HR) services.

The company developed its shop front concept with the aim of attracting the local small and medium sized business owner with a fresh, modern and stylish look. Franchisee Peter Sewell who operates from Llandudno in North Wales, recently opened TaxAssist Accountants' 70th shop front. 'The Support Centre was very proactive and helped me select two possible locations in the territory,' Peter reports. 'I have been very pleased with the outcome of the shop front format. Since opening the shop, it has definitely given me a strong presence in the local area and people are popping in to see us at a rate of five walk-ins per week.'

Karl Sandall comments: 'It is very clear to us that moving into shop front premises will continue to be the way forward for all of our network. We have always had complete confidence in this. Professionalism and business stature within the community are immediately elevated with the increased profile of a shop front office - which in turn improves local business relationships and increases referrals of new business to our accountants.'

TAXASSIST'ACCOUNTANTS ENTERS'NORTHERN'IRELAND
Jim Andrew is the Northern Irish pathfinder for TaxAssist Accountants, opening his shop in Belfast at the end of 2008. 'Since the launch I have had a steady stream of work, despite the economic downturn,' he reports. 'As the credit crunch bites, self employed people and small businesses turn to accountancy firms for business advice and for ways to save money on their taxes. In my opinion now is the ideal time to launch an accountancy franchise and capitalise on the situation.'

Having attended the franchise's initial five week training course and refresher days Jim comments: 'The training course really boosted my confidence and I left feeling I would be able to run my own business effectively. The support I have received has been first rate.'

Karl Sandall reflects: 'We are very pleased to be welcoming Jim to the TaxAssist Accountants network and expect our presence here to grow considerably. Jim is currently the only franchisee in Northern Ireland, however he will be joined by a new franchisee in the new year and numbers of enquiries remain high. We are also actively looking to expand into the Republic of Ireland by granting a Master Franchise.'

DO'YOU'HAVE'WHAT'IT'TAKES?
Franchisees do not need any formal accountancy qualifications as full training is given, but you do need to have a relevant career background, be self motivated, disciplined, ambitious, hardworking and keen to build a substantial successful business.