The events of recent years have presented ongoing challenges to UK businesses. The pandemic followed by the cost of living crisis has taken a huge toll on the hospitality sector in particular.
In the current climate, the support business owners can provide for one another is vital, which is why Goodman Nash places so much value on our Trusted Partners programme.
The Client
In the past we helped Chartered Accountants Charlton Baker to save money on their own business rates, which is why as an accountant and advisor to their own clients they feel confident in recommending our services.
One of Charlton Baker’s clients that we were able to help was Pascal Rivault, Landlord of The Bell on the Common in Wiltshire. The Bell has been trading from the same site since the late 1700s, and under Mr Rivault’s care it now offers a charming pub and restaurant with an impressive menu and welcoming atmosphere. It is part of an industry, however, which has been hard-hit in recent years. With costs rising and continual phone calls offering support, Mr Rivault was unsure who to trust and hesitant to accept help.
The Case
He caught Goodman Nash’s eye as part of our regular review of our up-to date, in-house property data, where we spotted a missed opportunity to reduce his business rates bill. For years he had been paying far too much. We contacted Charlton Baker, who made the introduction – and Mr Rivault knew he was in the right hands.
The Solution
Our friendly sales representative was able to make a trip to The Bell to meet Mr Rivault in person. Once he explained the savings opportunity our auditors had identified, we were good to go. Our rating experts carried out a further review of the public house property, and were able to confirm where a reduction to the bills was due. We then liaised directly with the council to ensure that no time was wasted.
The Outcome
Overall we were successful in reducing Mr Rivault’s business rates bill back to 2019. He received an immediate refund of approximately £9k. With future reductions factored in, this amounted to an overall saving of approximately £10k to the end of the current year, with Mr Rivault sure to feel the benefits for years to come – a result Charlton Baker knew we could deliver  as one of their Trusted Partners.