Business News

BISHOP FLEMING LAYS FOUNDATION FOR WEST MIDLANDS GROWTH

Leading accounting, audit, tax, and advisory firm Bishop Fleming has invested in plans to grow its West Midlands presence as part of an ambitious business strategy.

The firm posted impressive financial results in 2021-2022, seeing fee growth rise by 19%, with the Worcester office contributing with 30% growth of its own. Chris Walklett, Partner, and lead for the Worcester office said: “We are delighted with our recent financial results as we look forward to further growth. We are mindful of the economic challenges that lie ahead but we are nevertheless optimistic for our future and will be supporting our clients to meet those challenges head on.” Choosing to build its growth from its Worcester base, the firm has recently completed a full refurbishment of its existing office, designed to combine the beauty and heritage of its location next to the Cathedral, with a modern, flexible, agile working environment, and the latest innovative technology. Partner Rob Pearce, who led the project said: “Our people told us that our central location in the city was important to them. Refurbishing our existing office has allowed us to maintain our presence in the city centre, a pinpoint for our clients and contacts. The transformation will provide a platform for our people to work smartly and efficiently for the benefit of our clients and community.” The firm currently employs over 460 people, including 37 partners, across its seven offices in the West Midlands and South West. In September, it welcomed a further 60 graduate and school leaver apprentices and expects its headcount to reach nearly 500 this year. Councillor Marc Bayliss of Worcester City Council added: “We are delighted that Bishop Fleming has chosen to continue to drive its future West Midlands growth from its Worcester office. As one of the leading employers in the city, and advisors to many clients in the region, this signals a deep commitment to, and confidence in, our local economy.” Chris added: “The investment in our office is just the first step in our plans to grow our business, our people, and our client base. I encourage any potential clients who would like to work with us, or talented people interested in working for us, to find out more about our exciting plans.” Bishop Fleming is currently one of the largest independent accounting and advisory firms in the UK. It has been recently ranked 14th in the UK’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers rankings.

Councillor Marc Bayliss with Chris Walklett and Rob Pearce of Bishop Fleming

CITY SIGNS COMBAT GRAFFITI WITH NEW SIGNAGE FILM

City Signs once again demonstrate their drive to embrace new technology by launching a cutting-edge anti-graffiti signage film. The new film not only provides a barrier to spray paints, but it also acts as a repellent, stopping it in its tracks, ensuring a wipe clean finish. The new Aslan anti-graffiti signage and banner range of films from City Signs, has already gained much interest from schools, public transport and shopping centres, as areas in our community that are most prone to vandalism. The unique film can be applied onto smooth or rough surfaces and prevents the graffiti from even being finished. With the paint being repelled, it is easily removed with a damp microfibre cloth, should any residue remain. Darren Wilkins, Managing Director at City Signs says, “We are really pleased to be adding the new Aslan anti-graffiti film to our range of signage products. The durability of our signage is so important to us and helping our customers to save money long term is always a key focus. Any way we can help protect our products from vandalism is a proactive step forward”. Vandalism is a particular issue in train stations, waiting rooms, bathrooms, lifts and carparks, costing millions of pounds a year in cleaning and replacement graphics. Having a solution that will cover smooth, rough, indoor and outdoor public spaces, will both address the financial impact of graffiti and will enhance the aesthetics of our local community. As Worcestershire’s leading signage display specialists, City Signs are a multi-award-winning family business, priding themselves on providing high impact solutions with the highest level of service. Their Headquarters at the Ball Mill Top Business Park, Hallow, has seen investment in the latest technology at their printing facilities, where the business continues to grow and flourish. For more information about the new anti-graffiti signage from City Signs, please contact the team on 01905 640 007 or email info@citysigns.co.uk.

New anti-graffiti signage from City Signs