Today’s news in brief – 17/2/2025

FRP Advisory has announced its Q3 trading is ahead of board expectations across its five services. The board declared an interim dividend of 0.95p per share, a slight increase from last year’s 0.9p, to be paid on 13 June 2025. The company remains confident that its strong pipeline and activity levels will result in full-year performance exceeding market expectations for the year ending 30 April 2025. Recently, FRP advised on Nexus Infrastructure’s acquisition of Coleman Construction, supporting its expansion into the water sector. The firm will release a full-year trading update in mid-May 2025. Duncan and Toplis has acquired Derby-based Underwood Green, expanding its service offering across the Midlands. The acquisition, marking Duncan and Toplis’ largest-ever growth period, coincides with its 100th anniversary. Underwood Green will rebrand, with all staff, including directors Gary Underwood and Richard Green, remaining in their roles at Pride Park, Derby. The deal has received regulatory approval, and Duncan and Toplis is pursuing further acquisitions. CEO Damon Brain emphasized the opportunity to provide enhanced services to clients, while Underwood Green’s directors expressed excitement about the benefits for their team and clients within a growing firm. Forvis Mazars has unveiled its new UK executive team to help drive its strategy in alignment with the global direction. The team includes Andrew Hoyle, Gareth Jones, Asam Malik, Liz Ritchie, Greg Simpson, Mark Kennedy, Margaret Laidlaw, Elisabeth Maxwell, and Toby Stanbrook, who will support CEO James Gilbey. Key roles include strategic initiatives, advisory services, growth for private clients, and expanding tax and audit capabilities. Stanbrook will oversee operations, while Laidlaw will focus on inclusion and diversity. This team will work together to enhance client experience, quality, and the firm's regional presence across 14 UK offices. Kreston Reeves has been appointed as administrator for St Augustine’s College in Westgate on Sea, Kent, due to financial difficulties worsened by rising operational costs and reduced consumer spending. The business, facing a significant strain, can no longer host events but the premises continue to operate normally. Administrators will focus on maximizing the value of the business and assets to provide the best possible outcome for creditors. The financial pressures have made it challenging for St Augustine’s College to continue operations, but efforts are being made to secure the most favorable resolution during administration.