2026
September 2, 2026
Murray Patt, founder of Hale-based accountants Alexander Knight & Co, takes a look at the future of AI and what it means for business owners who have to manage robots in the workplace…
Artificial intelligence (AI) is currently seen as a useful tool for business owners to write emails, summarise documents or generate ideas. But the next wave of AI usage will be different.
Technology experts are increasingly talking about the rise of AI assistants. These are systems that won’t simply answer questions, but will be able to complete routine business tasks on your behalf.
Imagine asking an AI assistant to prepare your weekly sales report, chase overdue invoices, schedule meetings, compare supplier prices, monitor stock levels or even remind you about important deadlines. The likes of Chat GPT and Gemini already offer integrations that bolt into your existing administrative processes and it’s within this area we expect to see widespread adoption.
Rather than carrying out each task manually yourself, you’ll simply ask your AI platform what you need, review its work and decide what action to take. In many ways, AI is evolving from being a digital search tool into a practical business assistant. A robotic PA.
For small businesses in particular, this is a significant development.
Many owners spend valuable time dealing with administration instead of focusing on customers, growth and strategy. AI assistants have the potential to reduce some of that workload, helping businesses become more productive without necessarily increasing headcount.
Even small daily time savings can build up over a year, giving owners more time to focus on income-generating work and stronger customer relationships.
That doesn’t mean people become less important. Quite the opposite.
While AI may become increasingly capable of handling repetitive and time-consuming tasks, it can’t replace human judgement, creativity, experience or relationships.
Winning new clients, supporting employees, making tough decisions and building trust will remain firmly in human hands. AI can analyse information at remarkable speed, but it can’t understand people in the way that people understand each other.
In 2027, the businesses that are likely to benefit most from AI will not be those that try to replace people with technology. Instead, they will be those that manage AI to support their teams, freeing up time for higher-value work that only people can do.
Businesses that embrace AI thoughtfully are likely to find it becomes another tool that helps employees perform at their best, rather than a substitute for their skills.
The same has been true of previous technological advances. Cloud accounting software didn’t replace accountants – it changed the way we work, allowing us to spend less time processing information and more time providing valuable advice. AI is likely to follow a similar path.
For business owners, the message is simple: you don’t need to become an AI expert overnight. But it is worth keeping an eye on how these technologies develop and considering where they could make everyday operations more efficient.
Your next “team member” may not be another employee. It could be an AI assistant working alongside you and your staff, helping your business become more productive while allowing your people to focus on what they do best.
Contact Murray Patt directly via email: murray@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk or call him on 0161 980 8788 to discuss his team becoming your new accountants.
September 1, 2026
Alexander Knight & Co has successfully achieved ESGmark® re-certification, reaffirming our commitment to environmental, social and governance best practice.
In a further measure of our progress, we has increased our overall assessment score from 72% at its initial certification to 87%.
The independently assessed certification recognises our firm’s continued progress across the three core areas of environmental responsibility, social impact and good governance.
Alexander Knight & Co originally became the first UK accountancy practice to achieve ESGmark® certification in 2022.
Our latest score represents a 15-percentage-point improvement and follows the submission of detailed evidence demonstrating how responsible practices have become embedded across our business.
A major factor behind the progress has been the formation of an internal ESG working group. Colleagues from across Alexander Knight & Co have been encouraged to identify worthwhile initiatives and then work together to implement them throughout the year.
The approach has helped move ESG beyond policies and commitments by giving staff an active role in deciding how the firm can make a practical difference to its workplace, local community and environment.
Among the group’s most visible initiatives has been Alexander Knight & Co’s ongoing work at Hale railway station. As an official sponsor of the station, the firm’s staff recently spent several days planning and carrying out improvement work, including painting, decorating, cleaning and tidying parts of the station.
The team also installed a bug hotel at the station to support biodiversity and provide a safe habitat for insects and pollinators.
The firm also supports City of Trees, the main charity and community forest movement dedicated to restoring green spaces across Greater Manchester.
Alison Spier, Head of HR & Training at Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“This is a fantastic result and reflects the sustained effort our team has put in since we achieved our original certification. Creating our internal ESG working group has made a major difference. Instead of ESG being something owned by one individual or discussed only at certain times of the year, our colleagues are actively identifying ideas, agreeing priorities and implementing initiatives together.
“That team approach has helped us maintain momentum throughout the year and embed ESG more firmly into the way we operate. Our work at Hale station is a good example. It has brought our colleagues together and enabled them to make a visible, practical contribution to the community in which we are based.
“Moving from 72% to 87% demonstrates that this collective effort is having a measurable impact. We have always been clear that ESG should not simply be a badge or a one-off exercise. It should influence how a business operates, how it treats people, how it supports its community and how it makes decisions.”
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“As accountants and business advisers, we also want to demonstrate to our clients that ESG does not need to be complicated or confined to large corporations.
“Owner-managed businesses can make achievable changes by involving their people, identifying practical opportunities and taking consistent action. We are pleased with our progress, but we recognise that ESG is an ongoing journey and our working group will continue looking for ways in which we can improve.”
Portia Patel, co-founder of ESGmark® added:
“The ESG-related progress made at Alexander Knight is really impressive and this is reflected in an improvement in the overall score to 87%, versus 72% in the initial certification. This is excellent progress and the whole team should feel very proud.”
ESGmark® certification is awarded following a structured assessment and verification process examining an organisation’s environmental, social and governance practices. Certified organisations must provide supporting evidence demonstrating that responsible business principles are reflected in their day-to-day activities.
August 11, 2026
We were delighted to swap calculators for paintbrushes when we volunteered to help improve Hale railway station.
Our colleagues spent several days planning and carrying out the work, including three days on site painting and decorating parts of the station, as well as sweeping, cleaning and tidying the surrounding areas. Pictured above (L-R) are Chloe Higginbottom, Jack Wareham, Alison Spier, Alastair Tough and Owen Li on the platform at Hale Station.
The volunteering forms part of Alexander Knight & Co’s wider environmental, social and governance (ESG) programme and follows the firm becoming an official sponsor of Hale Station last year.
With offices overlooking the railway and staff and clients regularly using Hale Station, the sponsorship reflects the firm’s close local ties and supports its continued upkeep and improvement alongside volunteers from the Friends of Hale Station.
(Colleagues Alastair Tough, Chloe Higginbottom and Owen Li of Alexander Knight & Co in Hale)
Previous initiatives have included refreshing displays celebrating the history of Hale Station and installing a bug hotel to support local biodiversity.
Alexander Knight & Co was the first accountancy firm in the UK to be awarded the ESGmark certification, a trusted and recognised standard that helps organisations evidence responsible business practices.
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“We are proud of our association with Hale station and wanted our support to involve more than simply putting our name on a sign. The station is an important part of our local community so it was great to get the team together, roll up our sleeves and make a practical contribution.”
Alison Spier, Head of HR & Training at Alexander Knight & Co, added:
“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it and there was a real sense of satisfaction in seeing the difference that a fresh coat of paint and some hard work could make. Supporting the community in which we live and work is important to us. We look forward to continuing to work alongside others passionate about the station and finding more ways to help.”
(Colleagues from Alexander Knight & Co at Hale station, 2026)
Opened in 1862, Hale station serves the Mid Cheshire line, providing connections to Manchester, Chester and destinations beyond.
Thank you to all our colleagues who took part. You did a brilliant job and we are proud of you for making such a positive impact on our local community. ❤️
August 4, 2026
We are delighted to have advised Gresham Wealth Management on its deal to join Equilibrium Financial Planning.
Founded in 1995 by Colin Lawson, Equilibrium is a Chartered financial planning firm based in Wilmslow, Cheshire, looking after around 1,400 clients and approximately £1.5bn in assets under management. The firm employs around 100 people across financial planning, investment management, client service and support.
Both businesses share a committed outlook on providing first-class client service, and a cultural alignment that makes this a positive merger for clients and staff alike.
Gresham’s entire team will become part of Equilibrium, while continuing to work from the Hale office, giving clients continuity of the same people, in the same place, with a wider range of services and specialist support behind them.
For Gresham, the move is about capacity rather than exit. Joining a larger, well invested business gives the team access to Equilibrium’s technology, financial planning and client service infrastructure, as well as its investment expertise.
It also gives e very member of staff more room to develop their career further.
Morven Millar, Director of Gresham thanked Alexander Knight & Co and said that our financial and transaction support helped the firm reach an outcome that works for clients and staff.
Morven Millar, Director at Gresham Wealth Management, commented:
“We could not have asked for a better outcome. It satisfies all of our long-term plans to deliver the best client outcomes in the most efficient way, while retaining every member of our team and giving them the chance to grow further in a high energy, dynamic company. In a world of fast-changing technology, this helps us achieve exactly that. I want to be clear that this is not a step back for any of us and our clients will continue to deal with the same familiar faces. What changes is what we can offer them.We have known Equilibrium for a long time, and we share the same instincts about how clients should be looked after. That is why this feels like the natural next chapter for the firm we’ve built.”
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“It was a pleasure to support the owners of our longstanding client Gresham Wealth Management on the sale of their business to Equilibrium. As specialists in this sector, we were able to ensure a smooth transaction throughout. We congratulate everyone involved and wish the business every success as part of the wider Equilibrium group.”
June 11, 2026
With the football taking centre stage over the coming weeks, we’d like to take a moment to wish all of our clients, contacts and friends an enjoyable summer of sport.
Whether you’ll be cheering on England, supporting another nation, or simply enjoying the atmosphere and drama that major international tournaments always bring, we hope the weeks ahead provide plenty of memorable moments.
Football has a unique way of bringing people together. From family gatherings and pub gardens to office sweepstakes and friendly debates around the coffee machine, tournaments often create shared experiences that extend far beyond the pitch itself.
Of course, not everyone will be following the action quite so closely, but even the most casual fans can usually appreciate the excitement that comes with a summer of international football.
At Alexander Knight & Co, we’ll no doubt have a few differing opinions around the office as the tournament progresses, but one thing we can all agree on is that it’s a welcome opportunity to enjoy some well-earned downtime with friends, family and colleagues.
So, whichever team you’re supporting, wherever you’re watching from, and however far your chosen nation progresses, we hope you enjoy the next few weeks of football.
Here’s hoping for plenty of great matches, memorable goals and maybe even a little sporting success along the way.
Enjoy the tournament!
We are incredibly grateful to the many clients who take the time to leave reviews and share their experiences of working with our team.
We are particularly proud that many of the comments we receive mention the professionalism of our team, the quality of our advice and the personal relationships we build with clients over many years.
Murray Patt, Managing Director of Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“We genuinely appreciate every review that our clients leave. We know people are busy, so the fact that they take the time to share positive feedback means a great deal to everyone across the business.
“Our team works hard to provide a high level of service, and it’s always rewarding to hear that our efforts are making a difference. On behalf of everyone at Alexander Knight & Co, thank you for your continued support and kind words.”
Below, we’ve highlighted a selection of recent reviews from clients. We would like to thank each and every one of them for their feedback and for choosing Alexander Knight & Co as their trusted accountancy partner.
Peter Clarkson, Think Hire
“The team at Alexander Knight have been absolutely fantastic over the last 3.5 years. They have always been at the end of the phone for informal advice, and have been a true audit / business partner. I really value the service provided, and they take away any worries of compliance requirements, so that I can focus on the core business.”
David Gee, Dave Draws:
“We have been with Alexander Knight & Co since 2018 and I would highly recommend them. They have always been helpful and professional but also very approachable and open to answering any questions we may have. Murray and his entire team go above and beyond to provide a great service and have also given us valuable advice over the years.”
Joe Trueman, Premier Arches:
“Excellent service from the team at AK. They are attentive, listen to our needs and support us. The team respond fast, and their advice is very valuable to us.”
Michael Howe, SWH Property:
“Professional, reliable and on the money, all delivered in a friendly approachable manner.”
Emma Clarke, Emma Clarke:
“As ever, excellent service. Very highly recommended.”
Dan Masters, Mastery Associates:
“Murray and his team are brilliant. For over 10 years, I have had excellent service and prompt replies to any queries. Murray also has a way of making complex things simple to understand. Highly recommended.”
We are always looking for ways to improve the experience we provide to our clients and make it easier for businesses and individuals to access the advice and support they need.
That’s why we’re delighted to announce that work is well underway on a brand-new website, which we will he launching soon.
The new site is being developed in partnership with Manchester based Sugar PR and will provide a modern, user-friendly experience designed to better reflect the firm, our people and the services we offer.
While our current website has served us well, both technology and client expectations have evolved significantly in recent years. The new platform will offer improved functionality, easier navigation and a richer range of content aimed at helping clients stay informed about the latest tax, accounting and business developments.
Visitors can expect a fresh new design, enhanced mobile experience and easier access to the resources and insights that have become an important part of Alexander Knight & Co’s client offering.
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“We’re incredibly excited about the new website and what it will mean for our clients. As a firm, we’ve continued to evolve and grow, and we wanted our online presence to better reflect who we are today.
“The new site will make it easier for clients and prospective clients to learn about our services, access useful business information and connect with our team. It will also provide a stronger platform for sharing insights and advice that can help businesses make better-informed decisions.”
Pete Davies, of Sugar PR in Manchester, said:
“Alexander Knight & Co has built an outstanding reputation over more than a decade so it’s important that the new website reflects both the professionalism of the firm and the personality of the people behind it.
“The new site has been designed to enhance visibility and showcase the breadth of expertise within the business while making it easier for clients and prospective clients to access useful information and advice. We’re excited to see the finished website go live and believe it will provide a strong foundation for the firm’s continued growth in the years ahead.”
We’ll be sharing further updates in the coming weeks and look forward to unveiling the finished site soon. Watch this space!
At Alexander Knight & Co, we believe strong client relationships are built over time through trust, consistency and a genuine understanding of the businesses and individuals we support.
This year, we are delighted to be recognising some of our longest-standing clients by distributing a series of specially commissioned commemorative wine gift boxes to clients who have been with the firm for ten years or more.
In total, more than 75 gift boxes are being presented, reflecting the remarkable loyalty of clients who have chosen to work with Alexander Knight & Co over many years and, in many cases, throughout multiple stages of their business journey.
The initiative forms part of our ongoing commitment to recognising the importance of long-term relationships and expressing appreciation to those clients who have placed their trust in us over the past decade and beyond.
While the gifts themselves are a small gesture, they represent something much more significant – the enduring partnerships that have helped shape the firm’s success.
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“As accountants, we are often privileged to support clients through some of the most important moments in their business and personal lives. We see businesses launch, grow, recruit staff, expand, navigate challenges and plan for the future.
“When a client has remained with us for ten years or more, it represents a relationship built on trust, communication and shared success. We felt it was important to recognise that commitment and thank those clients who have continued to place their confidence in us year after year.”
The fact that more than 75 clients qualify for the commemorative gifts is, according to the firm, a reflection of the strength of its client relationships and the personalised service that has become synonymous with our approach.
Murray added:
“We never take client loyalty for granted. The accountancy profession is highly competitive and clients have more choice than ever before. The fact that so many clients have stayed with us for such a long period is something we’re incredibly proud of.
“These gifts are simply our way of saying thank you. We genuinely value every client relationship and look forward to continuing to support their ambitions for many years to come.”
The commemorative wine gift boxes are being distributed throughout the summer and will be presented to qualifying clients as a token of appreciation for their long-standing support.
Pictured below are the specially commissioned commemorative wine gift boxes being presented to some of those clients who have been with Alexander Knight & Co for ten years or more.
We are delighted to feature in the latest edition of J-Life magazine discussing our role in the heart of the community in Hale. Here follows a reproduction of the full article that appeared:
For accountancy firm Alexander Knight & Co, being based in Hale is about far more than just an office location, it’s about being part of a thriving, ambitious and well-connected community.
Hale has firmly established itself as one of Greater Manchester’s most dynamic business hubs, attracting entrepreneurs, professionals and growing businesses who value both lifestyle and opportunity. It’s a place where people don’t just work, they live, socialise and build meaningful relationships.
That’s exactly why Alexander Knight & Co chooses to call Hale home.
Situated in the heart of the village, the firm’s Grade A offices on Hale Road quite literally overlook one of the area’s most important landmarks, Hale railway station, of which Alexander Knight & Co is the official sponsor.
Originally opened in 1862, Hale station has long served as a vital link in the Greater Manchester rail network, connecting the village to Manchester, Chester and beyond via the Mid Cheshire line. Today, it remains a central artery of local life used daily by residents, commuters, businesses and visitors alike.
This official sponsorship reflects a genuine commitment to the community. Alongside local volunteer groups such as Friends of Hale Station, the Alexander Knight & Co team is actively involved in supporting the upkeep and ongoing enhancement of this historic gateway.
With the firm’s branding now prominently displayed, the station stands as a visible symbol of its investment and commitment to Hale.
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, explains:
“We’re proud to be associated with Hale station which is a central part of our local community used daily by many of our clients and colleagues. Supporting local infrastructure is important to us and our team is happy to get hands-on alongside other volunteers to make the local environment the best it can possibly be.”
This sense of connection extends into every aspect of the firm’s presence in Hale.
Clients benefit not only from a central location, but from something increasingly rare – ease. With convenient parking at the office, visiting Alexander Knight & Co is stress-free, avoiding congestion, parking charges and the challenges that often come with travelling into Manchester city centre.
For many, that convenience is a deciding factor. Murray explains:
“We often hear from clients that they prefer coming to Hale rather than heading into town. It’s easier, more relaxed, and you can actually enjoy the experience.
“From high-quality restaurants and stylish bars to independent cafés and brunch spots, the village has become a destination in its own right. Meetings with clients often extend beyond the office and into local coffee shops, lunches on Ashley Road or informal conversations that strengthen relationships in a more relaxed setting. It’s something that appeals to many of our clients.”
This lifestyle element is a big part of Hale’s appeal, particularly for the firm’s client base, which includes leading entrepreneurs and business owners from across Greater Manchester.
Hale is also widely recognised for its excellent schools, making it an attractive place for families as well as business owners. That strong educational foundation is something Alexander Knight & Co is keen to build on.
The firm actively encourages young people in the local area to consider careers in accountancy, offering clear pathways into the profession through training, mentorship and hands-on experience. Its graduate scheme is already proving popular, attracting ambitious individuals looking to build their careers within a supportive and forward-thinking firm.
Alison Spier, head of HR and Training at Alexander Knight & Co, explains:
“We are passionate about developing the next generation of accountants. Hale is full of talented young people and we want to show them that there’s a real opportunity to build a successful career right here. Our graduate scheme is a great opportunity for young people to progress a career in accountancy and be surrounded by high-growth entrepreneurs.”
Hale’s appeal is further strengthened by its exceptional connectivity. With direct access to the motorway network and close proximity to Manchester Airport, the village is ideally positioned for modern business.
As a member of MGI Worldwide, a global network of independent accounting firms, the team regularly supports clients investing into the UK, as well as UK-based clients expanding overseas combining local expertise with global reach.
Since moving to Hale in 2018, the firm has expanded its team, built long-standing relationships and developed strong connections with other professionals across Hale and neighbouring Altrincham. From lawyers and wealth managers to property specialists and consultants, the local ecosystem thrives on collaboration.
That entrepreneurial spirit is one of Hale’s defining characteristics and one that aligns perfectly with the firm’s approach.
Murray Patt, sums up the importance of the entrepreneurial spirit that is one of Hale’s defining characteristics and one that aligns perfectly with his own approach:
“As accountants, we thrive in an environment where there’s energy and ambition. Hale is arguably one of the best places in Greater Manchester for that. It’s also a place where trust matters.
“We’re proud to have become a trusted name within the local community and beyond, known for delivering clear, commercially focused advice and building lasting relationships with business owners. Being based in the heart of Hale remains central to our approach and I believe that being in the right place makes all the difference.”
The future of accountancy is increasingly being shaped by technology, global connectivity and changing client expectations.
To ensure Alexander Knight & Co remains at the forefront of these developments, members of our leadership team recently attended two major international events hosted by MGI Worldwide – one of the world’s leading international accounting networks. As a member firm, Alexander Knight & Co benefits from access to a global community of independent firms, providing valuable insight that can be shared directly with clients here in the UK.
Murray Patt joined firm leaders from across Europe and beyond at the MGI Worldwide European Conference 2026 in Athens, while Audit Principal Kate Rowbottom attended the MGI Worldwide International Audit & Tax Seminar in Amsterdam, bringing together specialists from around the world to discuss emerging issues, regulatory developments and international tax trends.
The European Conference in Athens brought together delegates from across Europe as well as representatives from markets including the United States, China and South Korea. Discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities facing the profession, with a particular emphasis on technology, leadership and the evolution of client services.
One of the key themes emerging from the conference was the growing role of artificial intelligence and automation. While technology continues to improve efficiency and streamline compliance processes, delegates agreed that the future of accountancy will increasingly centre on advisory services, strategic guidance and helping businesses navigate complex commercial decisions.
Another important topic was leadership. As firms adapt to rapid change, those that invest in their people, culture and long-term vision are expected to be best placed to thrive.
Murray Patt said:
“The profession is evolving faster than ever before. While technology is transforming how firms operate, the importance of trusted advice and strong client relationships has never been greater. Events like this provide valuable opportunities to learn from colleagues across different markets and bring those insights back to benefit our clients and team here in the UK.”
In Amsterdam, delegates explored developments in international taxation, cross-border business issues and the increasingly complex regulatory landscape facing businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions.
The event provided valuable technical insight and reinforced the importance of international collaboration in supporting businesses with overseas interests, international investments and global growth ambitions.
Kate Rowbottom said:
“The tax landscape continues to evolve at pace, particularly for businesses with international connections. Attending the seminar provided an excellent opportunity to share knowledge with specialists from other countries and gain perspectives that will help us continue delivering informed, practical advice to our clients.”
For Alexander Knight & Co, participation in these international events is about more than professional development. It ensures the firm remains connected to emerging trends, global best practice and the wider issues influencing businesses both locally and internationally.
By combining local expertise with international insight, Alexander Knight & Co continues to help entrepreneurial businesses navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
At Alexander Knight & Co, we believe that making a positive contribution to our local community doesn’t always require large-scale projects. Sometimes, small initiatives can make a meaningful difference.
Over the recent bank holiday weekend, we were pleased to install a new bug hotel at Hale Railway Station, which we proudly sponsor as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the local environment and community.
While modest in size, the bug hotel has an important purpose. It provides shelter and nesting spaces for a variety of insects, including solitary bees, ladybirds, beetles and other pollinators that play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Pollinating insects are responsible for supporting much of the natural world around us, helping plants, flowers and trees reproduce and thrive. However, many species face increasing challenges due to habitat loss and environmental pressures. Creating small, safe spaces where insects can live and breed is one way communities can help support local biodiversity.
As a business rooted in Hale, we are always looking for opportunities to contribute positively to the area. Supporting Hale Station has become an important part of that commitment, and the installation of the bug hotel is another step towards making the station environment greener, more welcoming and environmentally friendly.
Alison Spier, who helps oversee Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) activities at Alexander Knight & Co, said:
“When people think about environmental initiatives, they often imagine large projects. In reality, small actions can collectively have a significant impact. The bug hotel is a simple addition, but it creates a valuable habitat for insects that are essential to our local ecosystem.
“As the official sponsors of Hale Station, we’re keen to support projects that not only improve the appearance of the station but also contribute positively to the environment. We hope it becomes a small but meaningful feature that helps local wildlife thrive.”
The project forms part of Alexander Knight & Co’s wider ESG programme, which focuses on supporting community initiatives, promoting sustainability and making a positive contribution beyond our day-to-day accountancy services.
In recent months, we have continued to explore opportunities to support Hale Station and the surrounding area through both practical volunteering and environmental improvements. The bug hotel complements these efforts while reinforcing the importance of biodiversity in urban and suburban spaces.
Although it may only occupy a small corner of the station, the bug hotel serves as a reminder that even simple measures can help support wildlife and encourage greater awareness of the natural environment around us.
We’re proud to have played a small part in enhancing Hale Station and look forward to continuing our work to support both the local community and the environment in the months ahead.
HMRC has increased its Approved Mileage Allowance Payment (AMAP) rate from 45p to 55p per mile for the first 10,000 business miles travelled each tax year. It is the first increase in more than 15 years and reflects the rising costs of running a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, servicing and maintenance.
For many owner-managed businesses, this is a welcome change that could result in higher tax-efficient reimbursements for both company directors and employees.
Good news for company directors
Many directors of limited companies use their personal vehicle for business journeys and then reclaim mileage from the company.
Rather than putting fuel, repairs, insurance and vehicle running costs through the business, directors can claim HMRC’s approved mileage rate for qualifying business journeys.
From April 2026, this means a director can now claim:
- 55p per mile for the first 10,000 business miles each tax year
- 25p per mile thereafter
The reimbursement is paid by the company and is generally tax-free to the director, while also being an allowable business expense for Corporation Tax purposes.
For example, a director who travels 8,000 business miles during the year could now claim £4,400 from their company rather than £3,600 under the previous rate – an additional £800 received tax-free.
For many small business owners, this represents a straightforward and legitimate way of recovering more of the costs associated with business travel.
What counts as business mileage?
Business mileage includes journeys made wholly and exclusively for business purposes, such as:
- Visiting clients or customers
- Attending meetings
- Travelling to temporary work locations
- Visiting suppliers
- Attending training courses or networking events
However, normal commuting between home and a permanent workplace is not classed as business mileage and cannot be claimed.
Keeping accurate mileage records remains essential. A simple mileage log showing dates, destinations, purpose of travel and miles travelled is usually sufficient.
Benefits for employees too
The increase is also positive news for employees who use their own vehicles for work.
Employers can now reimburse staff up to 55p per mile tax-free for qualifying business journeys.
Many businesses, particularly those in professional services, construction, healthcare, social care and sales, rely heavily on employees travelling between locations. The higher rate helps employees recover more of the real costs of using their own vehicle for work.
Where an employer chooses to pay less than the approved HMRC rate, employees may be able to claim tax relief on the difference through their tax return or directly from HMRC.
A timely reminder for business owners
The increase provides a useful opportunity to review mileage policies and expense procedures.
Business owners should ensure:
- Mileage reimbursement rates are updated
- Staff understand what qualifies as business travel
- Adequate mileage records are maintained
- Claims are submitted regularly and accurately
As HMRC continues to scrutinise business expenses, maintaining proper records remains just as important as claiming the correct amount.
The bottom line
For owner-managed businesses, the increase to 55p per mile is a practical tax-efficient benefit. Directors can recover more of the cost of using their personal vehicles for business, while employees receive fairer reimbursement for work-related travel.
After more than a decade without change, the new rate better reflects the true cost of motoring and offers a welcome boost for businesses and staff alike.
If you would like advice on mileage claims, directors’ expenses or the most tax-efficient way to reimburse business travel, speak to our team.
