Today’s news in brief – 16/5/2025

Cynera Rodricks Friday, 16 May 2025, 16:16

1 minute read

Accountancy firm Kilsby Williams has launched a forensic accounting and expert witness division, led by new recruit Chris Hatcher and partner Huw Sheppard. Hatcher brings over 30 years of experience, having worked at two local practices and trained with a PwC predecessor. The new service responds to growing demand in areas such as shareholder disputes, personal injury claims, and contractual disagreements. Managing partner Simon Tee noted a market gap as competitor firms have withdrawn from such services. The division expands the firm’s portfolio, aligning with its commitment to providing comprehensive financial services across south Wales, the UK, and internationally.

Barclays has confirmed the reappointment of KPMG as its statutory auditor, effective from the 2027 financial year. KPMG has served as auditor since 2017, but under UK regulations, public interest entities must tender audit appointments every 10 years and rotate auditors every 20. The decision to retain KPMG follows a formal process and will be subject to shareholder approval at Barclays’ 2027 Annual General Meeting. This continuity underscores the board’s confidence in KPMG’s audit capabilities while complying with governance and rotation requirements. Barclays has not indicated any changes in its audit approach or scope related to the reappointment.

Quantuma has successfully completed a pre-pack administration sale of Premier Communications (Peterborough) Limited to PremCom UK Ltd, preserving all 17 jobs. Appointed as joint administrators on 30 April 2025, Rehan Ahmed and Jeremy Woodside oversaw the process, supported by legal and surveying teams. Premier, a commercial printing firm established in 1999 with a £4.2m turnover in 2023, faced financial strain due to rising costs and pandemic-era budget cuts. The sale ensures the continuation of operations under new ownership. Quantuma expressed satisfaction in securing the business’s future and enabling growth under a buyer committed to building on its established market presence.