Today’s news in brief – 14/1/2025

FRP has opened a new office in Bournemouth, located at Oxford Point, as part of its ongoing national expansion. Led by partner Sandy Kinninmonth and director James Prior, the seven-member restructuring team will support businesses across Bournemouth and Dorset. The office complements FRP’s existing South of England presence and follows the firm’s 2024 growth, including five acquisitions and new offices in Northern Ireland and Wales. CEO Geoff Rowley emphasized FRP’s commitment to geographic growth and client service, while Kinninmonth highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses amid economic challenges such as weak consumer demand and high insolvency rates.
Hazlewoods closed over £1.2bn in M&A transactions in 2024, a 20% increase from 2023. The firm completed 134 deals, including business sales, acquisitions, and growth funding, with 80% involving national or international buyers or sellers. Corporate finance partner Richard Dade attributed the achievement to the dedication of Hazlewoods’ 50-strong team. Fellow partner Rich Grover noted that the deals spurred economic growth and stability despite challenging conditions. Looking ahead, Hazlewoods anticipates a strong 2025, driven by private equity demand, trade consolidation, and increased inquiries from businesses exploring growth capital or exit opportunities in a stable tax environment.
Braveheart Investment Group has appointed MAH Chartered Accountants as its new auditors following the resignation of PKF Littlejohn. PKF confirmed no issues requiring attention upon ceasing its role. MAH, established in 2011 with 15–20 staff and two partners, will audit Braveheart’s financial statements for the year ending 31 March 2025. Shareholders will vote on MAH’s reappointment at the 2025 Annual General Meeting. This appointment reflects Braveheart’s confidence in MAH’s qualifications and expertise. MAH’s selection underscores its reputation for delivering reliable financial auditing services to support the company’s compliance and reporting needs in the coming year.
Carpenter Box has promoted Kristina Perry and Nick Tebb to partner, both of whom joined as trainees in the 2010s. Perry, an ACCA-qualified University of Brighton graduate, progressed to client service director in the assurance and advisory team, overseeing audits and technical accounting functions. Tebb, a De Montfort University graduate, advanced to client service director at StarBox, supporting new media entrepreneurs. Both expressed pride in their career journeys within Carpenter Box. Managing partner Alan Edwards highlighted their success as examples of the firm’s dedication to nurturing talent and providing clear career paths, aligning with Carpenter Box’s growth-focused culture.