GaraDry wins prestigious award

GaraDry wins prestigious Kings Award for Enterprise

An innovative product design company is celebrating today after scooping a prestigious international business award from King Charles.

His Majesty The King approved the Prime Minister’s recommendation that Lancashire-based GaraDry should receive the King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category this year.

The newly renamed King’s Award for Enterprise celebrates outstanding achievements by UK businesses and is internationally recognised. The 2023 awardees were officially announced today, marking Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday.

Ashley Smith, 43, who founded the company in 2009, has now received an invitation from His Majesty the King to visit Buckingham Palace later this year to celebrate his company’s achievement.

Based in Ormskirk, Lancashire, GaraDry designs, manufactures, and sells the world’s largest range of threshold seals for residential garage doors and commercial doors. You can order these brilliant products directly from their brilliant website which stocks the a huge range of garage door seals.

The innovative GaraDry garage door seals and flood barrier kits are designed to form a watertight seal between a garage door and the floor. The threshold seal also prevents leaves, dust and debris from being blown under to ensure a clean and dry garage all year round. The garage door threshold seals also act as a defence against rodents, insects and reptiles.

The 43-year-old, who has a degree in Industrial Design from the University of Central Lancashire,  launched his first online business in 2005 selling garage door spare parts which still trades today.

This experience saw him dealing with customers frustrated with the limited options available for them to prevent water entering their garage. This led to him spotting a gap in the market to create his unique product range that prevents rainwater and debris seeping under garage doors and into commercial warehouses.

Innovative design for garage door threshold 

Innovations included adding safety features, such as yellow extruded lines on all its products, multiple sizing options and using robust environmentally friendly materials. The firm also supplies its own brand adhesive developed specifically for the product range. GaraDry also introduced the first flood barriers for garages that can be driven over. All the products are protected by design registrations.

Growing company 

The company is actively recruiting, employs 11 people, and has grown its sales dramatically in the last three years. Overseas sales now account for 33% of its UK business. It now exports its range of products to more than 40 countries including most European countries and as far away as Australia.  

GaraDry opened a subsidiary in the USA in 2017 (GaraDry LLC), to handle strong interest from Americans in the products and launched a fulfilment centre in Tennessee to ship transatlantic orders quickly. A warehouse was also set up in Germany in 2022 to fulfil all EU orders and smooth the challenges of Brexit.

Ashley Smith, managing director of GaraDry, said:

“I’m delighted and humbled for our company to receive this accolade. It means the world to our team and receiving this acknowledgement from the King only encourages us even further to grow our business and continue designing innovative products manufactured in Great Britain.

“As well as people wanting to protect the contents of their garage, businesses see the benefit in keeping the products they store in industrial units clean and dry all year round and this B2B market has opened up opportunities for us all over the world. Safety is another driver for them because water on a warehouse floor is a slip hazard.  Our products also protect expensive machinery which is at risk of rusting or cardboard which will get ruined by rain.

 “The fact I started the business with a £1,000 inheritance from my uncle proves that a large amount of funding is not always needed to start a business and to be successful. Drive and determination are often equally, if not more important. I hope this encourages other entrepreneurs to aim high even if they might only have limited resources to start with.

 “I started the business from my mother’s home in Ainsdale and used the shed and garage as my stockroom and my bedroom as my office. I’m thankful to my Mum for supporting me during that early phase.

“We’re all truly humbled by this award and hope it can inspire other people to pursue their business dreams.

“We are excited about the future. We will continue to work hard and expand geographically and create new jobs here in Ormskirk. We also have a new innovative product range which is under development which we hope to bring to market this year.”

Staff loyalty and family values are key to the growth of the business. Christopher Davies, the company’s first member of staff is now the General Manager and has been with the company for 13 years. Ashley’s wife, Helen joined the company in 2011 and is currently the Company Secretary.

Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, added:

“We are all absolutely delighted to see our client acknowledged by The King as a leading business in the field of exporting innovative British-made products all over the world. There is huge demand for the GaraDry range of garage seals and we are delighted to be their accountants and support them in their growth journey as they continue to innovate, open new markets and create new products.” 

See uk.garadry.com

 

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MGI Talent

Some of our colleagues attended the MGI Talent Meeting in Brussels, Belgium.

The Talent Meeting is a unique opportunity to build your network, learn about MGI, listen to and debate professional issues and have fun.

The meeting was held on 31 March 2023 at Crown Plaza Brussels Airport Hotel, Belgium.

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Chat GPT in business

Small businesses often operate with limited resources, which can make it challenging to compete with larger, more established companies.

However, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), small businesses can now leverage advanced technology to increase their efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction – to make them more competitive.

ChatGPT is one such AI technology that can help small businesses and has gained worldwide attention since a free version of it was recently released. Some of our clients are already seeing its benefits.

Put simply, ChatGPT is a conversational AI tool that can engage in natural language conversations.

It can be integrated into a website, social media account, or messaging platform, allowing customers to interact with a business in a personalised, conversational manner.

This technology can help small businesses in several ways, including:

  1. Improving customer service: One of the biggest benefits of ChatGPT is that it can provide immediate, personalized responses to customer inquiries. By using natural language processing (NLP), ChatGPT can understand and respond to customer queries in real-time, which can help businesses provide better customer service.
  2. Reducing response time: ChatGPT can handle a large volume of customer inquiries simultaneously, which means that customers don’t have to wait in long queues to get their questions answered. This can help businesses reduce their response time and improve customer satisfaction.
  3. Providing 24/7 customer support: ChatGPT is available 24/7, which means that businesses can offer support to their customers at any time, even when their physical location is closed. This can help businesses increase their availability and reach a wider audience.
  4. Saving costs: By automating customer service, small businesses can save costs on hiring and training customer support staff. ChatGPT can handle most customer inquiries, which means that businesses can use their resources more efficiently.
  5. Increasing sales: ChatGPT can also be used to generate leads and drive sales. By engaging customers in personalised conversations, businesses can build a relationship with their customers and increase their chances of making a sale.
  6. Enhancing marketing efforts: ChatGPT can be used to enhance marketing efforts by providing personalised recommendations, content and targeted messaging.

Overall, as AI technology continues to advance, it’s likely that more SMEs will turn to tools like ChatGPT to improve their operations and stay competitive in their industries. We predict that AI will play an increasingly important role as the technology develops and it becomes more mainstream.

This article, for example was written using it!

Contact me to discuss your accountancy requirements on (0161) 980 8788 or email murray@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk

 

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Thank you

We’d like to say a massive “THANK YOU” to many of our clients who have retained us for more than TEN years. We’re really pleased that this loyal client base is comprised of businesses within a wide variety of industry sectors including: 

  • Civil engineering 
  • Digital marketing 
  • Manufacturing
  • Electrical engineers 
  • Corporate Finance 
  • Legal 
  • Childcare
  • Transport & Logistics 
  • Media 
  • Wholesaler 
  • Retail 
  • Technology 
  • Property 

Thank you for your ongoing support – it means the world to our team!

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Alexander Knight & Co advises client in multinational transaction

We were pleased to advise the directors and shareholders of our client Pace Rehabilitation on its successful sale of the business to a multinational company.

Global health-tech company Ottobock has acquired Pace Rehabilitation, one of the top independent providers of prosthetic and rehabilitation services in the UK which is now part of a unified organisation with nationwide coverage.

Pace Rehabilitation was established in 2003 by a small team of experienced clinicians and has provided an integrated approach to the treatment of people who have sustained limb loss or serious limb injury over the past 20 years.

Operating from clinics situated in Amersham, Bredbury and Glasgow, its teams of clinicians help patients to improve their overall quality of life and enhance their mobility.

Alexander Knight & Co was pleased to advise the management team of Pace before, during and after the transaction with our accountancy and tax services.

Speaking upon the conclusion of the deal, Phil Yates, Managing Director of Otto Bock Healthcare said:

“We are thoroughly delighted to complete the acquisition and excited to welcome Pace Rehabilitation and their successful team to the Ottobock Family. Their endeavour aligns perfectly with Ottobock’s own mission to empower people to regain or maintain their freedom of movement.”

Toby Carlsson, Managing Director of Pace Rehabilitation, said

“We look forward to joining forces with Ottobock and benefiting from the opportunities that come with being part of a strong international organisation. We now join a network of clinics within a company that has a long-standing track record of bringing new and innovative products to the market. It is great news for all our stakeholders, and we are excited for the future.

“We are pleased with the support and guidance we have received from our accountants, Alexander Knight & Co. The team was incredibly proactive throughout the process and played a key role in ensuring this transaction went smoothly.”

Murray Patt of Alexander Knight & Co, said:

“This deal makes perfect sense for both parties strategically. It brings together like-minded organisations with a shared vision of empowering people who have sustained limb loss.

“It is always pleasing to see clients develop and grow their business to the point where they are in a position to join forces with other organisations. We are delighted for both parties with the outcome of this deal.”

Pace Rehabilitation’s team of 40 people consists of consultants, therapists, allied health professionals, technicians, and support staff, who are all now part of the Ottobock Family.

To read more, see here.

 

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Apply now: Undergraduate Placement 2023-24

As a modern, progressive practice, Alexander Knight & Co is always on the lookout for future talent.

Applications are now open for Accounting undergraduates to join our dynamic team – on a 9 or 12-month paid placement as part of their degree course – and discover what it’s really like to work in public practice.

Gain hands-on experience, build a network of contacts and get advice from our expert mentors. If you perform well, you could be given the opportunity to join one of our Graduate training programmes that will help you kick-start your professional career.

At Alexander Knight & Co, you’ll discover a culture that nurtures individuality and an environment where everyone is supported to reach their potential.

Our placement programme allows you to experience working in the accounting and business advisory team alongside current trainees and experienced members of the firm. You’ll get involved in client work from the start and get the chance to learn about different types of businesses from varying industry sectors.

This hands-on early experience is invaluable as you take the next steps in your career. You’ll also benefit from on-the-job training from more senior members of the team and gain access to our internal training courses that will help you develop in the role.

Candidate Requirements

  • Polite & professional manner.
  • Smart appearance.
  • Bright & articulate – able to engage with colleagues & clients appropriately, with ease & confidence.
  • Enthusiastic, self-motivated & keen to learn & progress within a professional environment.
  • Punctual, reliable, responsible, conscientious & trustworthy.
  • High level of numeracy & literacy essential.
  • Excellent organisational skills & consistent, accurate & analytical working methods.
  • Effective time management, strong communication skills & a high level of attention to detail.
  • Able to work independently & as part of a team.

3 A-levels A*-B (or equivalent)
Predicted degree 2:1 or higher

THE 3-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS

  1. Review of your CV and a brief covering letter.

Please send this to Alison Spier (alison@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk)

(Only successful candidates will receive a reply)

 

  1. An invitation to an interview & integrated competency test

 

  1. Acceptance onto our 2023 Undergraduate Placement

 

Disclaimer 

Alexander Knight & Co is an equal opportunities employer and no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person’s gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.

All candidates will only be assessed in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the role expected. Only successful applicants will be invited to the next stage consisting of an interview and assessment.

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Graduate Experience Programme 2023

Graduate Experience Programme at Alexander Knight & Co

If you are a recent graduate looking for a career in accountancy you can apply to join our graduate experience programme.

As well as providing you with the opportunity to add valuable work experience at our leading accountancy practice to your CV, you’ll also gain practical and personal skills in a professional accountancy-based setting and potentially, even get the opportunity to become one of our permanent graduate professionals.

We welcome applications from graduates who meet the minimum criteria (set out below) from the full range of academic disciplines. This scheme is not just designed for people who have accountancy/business/finance qualifications.

We firmly believe that the accountancy firms of the future will have a blended approach to the skills they offer to their clients. We are a diverse employer and welcome applications from graduates from a wide variety of backgrounds.

Our two-week paid graduate internship gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the AK&Co culture and offers you the perfect springboard for success as an accountant in 2023.

If you are passionate about pursuing a career in accountancy and you are fascinated by the prospect of working with – and on behalf of – our growing client base of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders – apply now.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • A 2:1 degree at a UK university
  • 3 A-levels (A*-B)
  • 9-7 in Maths & English at GCSE level or equivalent

THE 3-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS:

  1. Review of your CV and a brief covering letter

      Please send this to Alison Spier (alison@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk)

      (Only successful candidates will receive a reply)

 

  1. An invitation to a meeting to discuss your career aspirations 

 

  1. Acceptance onto our Graduate Internship.

           A date will be arranged for you to join us for two weeks.

 

Disclaimer 

Alexander Knight & Co is an equal opportunities employer and no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person’s gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.

All candidates will only be assessed in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the role expected. Only successful applicants will be invited to the next stage consisting of an interview and assessment.

 

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Budget 2023: how it affects you. 

Budget 2023: how it affects you. 

The Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt (pictured) has produced a budget largely aimed at big businesses but also focused on encouraging more people to remain in work rather than retire early.

In summary there are four key points that we’re emphasising to our clients in our Budget summary which you can download here:

1) the proposed removal of the lifetime pension limit is a positive move – and so is the increase to the annual pension allowances (from £40k to £60k).

2)The new tax relief for investment in plant and machinery provides 100% tax relief on eligible expenditure, with no cap (historically it has been £1m). Whilst this changes is welcomed, few businesses regularly invest more than £1m in plant in the first place – so it’s a little underwhelming for most of our clients.

3) It’s extremely disappointing to see the corporation hike to 25% will proceed – but understandable since they are trying to balance the books following the impact of the pandemic.

4) Extra support with childcare is definitely welcome – and this will be relief to clients and their staff.

We are advising our clients to take a look at our budget summary – and ensure they leave enough time to plan and review any changes that will need to be made to their pension strategy in particular.

Speak to Murray Patt if you need specific guidance on how these issues will affect your business and your personal finance as a company director. 

You can download our Budget summary here: Budget March 2023

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Wanted: Part Qualified Accountant

Part Qualified Accountant 

  • Are you part way through your training?
  • Are you looking to re-locate?
  • Do you feel that you have the right level of support in your current role?
  • Would you like to join an accountancy practice that will offer you a full range & breadth of opportunity across all areas during your training & support you to progress your career?
  • Apply now to join our growing team based in Hale, Greater Manchester.

Alexander Knight & Co is a modern, progressive and forward-thinking accountancy practice. We are committed to ongoing training and development in order to best serve the needs of our brilliant team and incredible, loyal clients, with a reputation for delivering high quality work through a friendly proactive style of accountancy.

Our client base is large and varied across a number of sectors both locally and nationally and we are active members of a renowned global accountancy network. We promote a positive and professional culture within our company and offer a supportive and flexible approach to working which is appreciated by both our staff and clients.

Candidate Requirements

Polite & professional manner.
Smart appearance.
Bright & articulate – able to engage with colleagues & clients appropriately, with ease & confidence.
Enthusiastic, self-motivated & keen to learn & progress within a professional environment.
Punctual, reliable, responsible, conscientious & trustworthy.

High level of numeracy & literacy essential.
Excellent organisational skills & consistent, accurate & analytical working methods.
Effective time management, strong communication skills & a high level of attention to detail.
Able to work independently & as part of a team.

5 (preferably 7) good GCSEs (grades A*-C/9-6) to include Maths & English ideally at the highest levels (A/A*/8/9)
2 A-levels (or equivalent)
Degree (2:1 or above)

Successful partial completion of professional exams.

Prospects and Benefits

  • Real potential for fast- track career progression.
  • Full support for completing studies and achieving career ambitions through staff training – on the job and external course provision.
  • Competitive salary
  • Agile, flexible approach to working, with opportunities for a hybrid basis i.e. a mix of remote and on site.
  • Modern, vibrant working environment, centrally located and within walking distance of both a village and a town.
  • Parking, excellent transport links.

Disclaimer 

Alexander Knight & Co is an equal opportunities employer and no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person’s gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.

All candidates will only be assessed in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the role expected. Only successful applicants will be invited to the next stage consisting of an interview and assessment.

You can apply directly by emailing your CV to alison@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk

We look forward to receiving your application. You can read more about our practice here.

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Murray Patt named as a leading influencer by the ICAEW for the second year running

Murray Patt, founder of Hale-based accountants Alexander Knight & Co, has been named as one of the UK’s leading accountancy influencers for the second year running by the ICAEW as part of its annual #ICAEWRoar campaign.

The top UK online influencers were chosen using a formula tailored to emphasise quality over quantity. Using its values of integrity, objectivity and respect for others as a starting point the algorithm is unique to ICAEW.

The ICAEW focused on UK-based individuals tweeting and discussing accountancy related topics such as accountancy, tax, budget, assurance, insolvency, audit and finance.

The regulatory body also used a social media listening tool to pull data relevant to specific keywords, looking at a metrics comprising of audience retweets, author tweets, sentiment, visibility and relevance.

Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, said:

“I’m delighted to have been named for the second year running. Social media is a fantastic tool to promote the positive work that good accountants do for their clients and it also provides an opportunity to network with peers and prospects.  

“Importantly it also engages young people who are looking to enter our profession and develop their career as an accountant. I’d like to thank the ICAEW for this accolade and the innovative way it has measured and evaluated all the influencers.”

You can follow Murray Patt here on Twitter and connect with him here on Linked-in. Read more on the ICAEW’s website here.

 

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