SUMMER 2017 Every time I go to see a new client, I am amazed by how many ideas we identify to make improvements to their business. Isn’t that what it is all about?... Helping clients to achieve their business goals. As technology continues to evolve and more people are using cloud software, the key to standing out is the standard of service we deliver. Back when the industry was paper-based, it was a big hassle for clients to change their accountant. Now, with much less – if any – paper involved, they have the freedom of choice and can switch easily. While it may seem a daunting prospect to leave the familiar, the silver lining is in the advice you receive and the subsequent scope it provides for your business to grow. “It’s our flexible approach that makes us distinctive in a competitive market.” Developing relationships with our existing clients and delivering an outstanding service is what we are all about. Whether it’s communicating electronically or a face-to- face meeting on the farm, we recognise that every client is different and has different needs. It’s our flexible approach that makes us distinctive in a competitive market. With this in mind I am delighted to welcome the Hetheringtons to this newsletter. They are long-standing clients who have embraced the turbulent times seen in the farming industry and adopted technology and diversification to create a sustainable business model. We are proud to have advised and supported them through their business journey. Read more about their story on pages 18 and 19. “Farmers need to use the current period of better profits to prepare for the future.” With diversification at the forefront of our minds, Sue Winter shares the effect this can have on tax relief on pages 10 and 11. With more than 20 years of valuable knowledge, Sue recently joined our tax team and brings with her a wealth of experience in tax planning and consultancy projects. She will provide face-to-face advice on Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax planning, giving clients peace of mind over succession issues, while helping to minimise their tax liabilities and ensure all reliefs are secured and transactions are completed effectively and tax-efficiently. As Brexit continues to throw uncertainty over the farming industry, farmers need to use the current period of better profits to prepare for the future. Making investments for the long-term may make sense, but paying debts and making your business more robust is important. Our Agricultural Consultant Tom Benson shares his own views and round-up of 2017 on pages 6 and 7. Who can forget Wednesday 22 November 2017 when Philip Hammond delivered the first Autumn Budget since he announced that he was moving the Budget from Spring to Autumn. Boosted by the deficit being the lowest it has been for a decade there was much speculation surrounding what lies ahead. 72% of smal changed acc because their acco proactive client se David Allen Managing Partner | david@david-allen.co.uk 2 david-allen.co.uk 72%