Kreston Reeves announces Richard Spofforth as new Managing Partner.

Accountants, business and wealth advisers Kreston Reeves has today announced the election of a new Managing Partner.

Richard Spofforth has been elected as the firm’s Managing Partner. He succeeds Nigel Fright, who has served as Managing Partner for 12 years and who will take on the role of Chief Strategy Officer.

At the same time, Andrew Griggs has been re-elected as Senior Partner. Changes to the firm’s senior leadership team are effective from 1 August 2025.

Under Nigel and Andrew’s leadership, Kreston Reeves has grown its turnover from £19.7m to £53m and employee and partner numbers from 261 to over 550 with offices across London, Kent and Sussex. 

Richard joined the firm as a Partner in 2016, having led Spofforths as its Managing Partner in its merger with Kreston Reeves.

He brings strong leadership experience, being an integral member of the Kreston Reeves management board for over nine years championing innovation. His tenure has seen him guide the firm through structural change, and the leadership and transformation of the accounts and outsourcing service line.

Speaking after his election as Managing Partner, Richard said: “I’m honoured to have been appointed to this role to further build on the firm’s purpose, vision and values to deliver a successful future for all our people. People, culture and performance are very important to me. I’m looking forward to leading and supporting our exceptional teams across the firm, further building on what makes Kreston Reeves great for our clients and our people.

“I would like to thank Nigel for the growth and strong leadership of our firm – the entire firm is extremely grateful for his commitment and direction. He and Andrew successfully led the firm through times of significant change, challenge and milestones, including the pandemic period and becoming one of the first accountancy firms to secure B Corp accreditation”.  

Nigel said: “Richard has been a remarkable and hard-working leader of the accounts and outsourcing service line. His previous experience of Managing Partner of Spofforths and commitment to growth, innovation and being future-ready provides him with the skills required for the next chapter as Managing Partner.

“I am delighted to congratulate him on his election and look forward to working alongside Richard, our partners and colleagues across the firm as we continue to go from strength to strength.”

Andrew Griggs said: “I’m incredibly proud of what our people have achieved for our clients, colleagues and communities. Richard is taking up the Managing Partner role at an exciting time and I’m looking forward to working with him on the next phase of the firm’s growth journey”.

About Kreston Reeves
Our purpose is to guide our clients, colleagues, and communities to a brighter future. We help businesses, charity and not-for-profit organisations, private individuals, and families with more than accountancy, business, and wealth advice. We help them realise their ambitions.

Offices in: London, Kent, and Sussex

Website: www.krestonreeves.com

Local entrepreneur Gemma Fletcher shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Businesswomen Awards.

Celebrating the resilience and brilliance of Female Entrepreneurs in challenging times.

The finalists for the prestigious Best Businesswomen Awards 2025 have been revealed, highlighting the grit, innovation, and leadership of women who are redefining success in business.

In a year marked by economic shifts, technological disruption, and continued pressure on work-life balance, female entrepreneurs have once again stepped up with remarkable resilience. These women haven’t just survived; they’ve adapted, innovated, and thrived, often while navigating the additional demands that come with being women in business in 2025.

The judging panel was inspired by the level of tenacity, creativity, and strategic thinking demonstrated across all entries. Each finalist is an outstanding example of what it means to lead with both purpose and performance in today's ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

The Best Businesswomen Awards were established to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women across all industries. These awards celebrate the achievements of women who are not only building successful businesses but also breaking down barriers, creating impact, and inspiring others to follow.

Local entrepreneur Gemma Fletcher founder of Business Unzipped, and Head of Communications, Business and Planning for University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Female Leader of the Year category for being a leader with a clear and compelling vision, one that extends beyond organisational success to shaping a future where strong, compassionate leadership is the standard.

Debbie Gilbert, founder of the Best Businesswomen Awards, said:
“This is the 11th year of these awards, and once again, we’ve seen an incredible calibre of entries. Despite the mounting pressures faced by women in business, from funding gaps to rising costs to the mental load of balancing life and leadership, these finalists have shown that female entrepreneurship is stronger than ever. Our judging panel was truly impressed by the standard of entries, and we’re proud to shine a light on these trailblazing women.”

When receiving the news, Gem said: “Being shortlisted for Female Leader of the Year is an honour that reflects the power of leading with empathy, clarity, and purpose. I believe true leadership is about creating space for others to thrive, and I’m proud to be part of a movement that champions meaningful change in the workplace.”

The winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Night at the Daventry Court Hotel, Daventry, on 10^th October 2025 when the Gold Winners in each category will be revealed.

Sussex Transport Renews Worthing FC Stadium Sponsorship of Woodside Road

Celebrating Two Incredible Years and Looking Ahead with Worthing FC

Two years ago, Sussex Transport proudly became the stadium sponsor of Worthing Football Club, and what an unforgettable journey it’s been since then. From dramatic title challenges and playoff heartbreaks to the opening of the fantastic 1886 Club, the arrival of new sponsors, and the unveiling of a brand new stand, there’s been no shortage of excitement both on and off the pitch.

In that time, we’ve also seen the club step onto the international stage with a TV documentary, showcasing just how special this football community is.

The partnership with Worthing FC has always been about more than just naming rights. As a business born and bred in and around Worthing, with deep roots in local sport and community life, Sussex Transport are incredibly proud to be part of the club’s ongoing story. Supporting the club means supporting the town, the community, and the next generation of Rebels fans and players alike.

That’s why Sussex Transport and Worthing FC were thrilled to recently announce the renewal of the sponsorship agreement with Worthing FC for a further 2 years. With Sussex Transport staying firmly in the Rebels’ corner as they look ahead to the 2025/26 season.  The team can’t wait to share whatever comes next with the fans, the players, and everyone connected to the club.

Here’s to more goals, more glory, and even more incredible moments at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium. Let’s keep this journey rolling together!

Damian Pulford – Managing Director Sussex Transport added

Two years ago, we committed to partnering with Worthing Football Club because we believe sport is at the heart of our community. The last two seasons have delivered incredible highs, a few heartbreaks, and memories that we’ll all carry with us. From new stands and club developments to the buzz of the 1886 Club and even national TV coverage, we’ve been proud to support the Rebels every step of the way.

I’m delighted to confirm that Sussex Transport has renewed our sponsorship of the stadium, ensuring our partnership continues into the 2025/26 season. As a local business, we believe in investing in both our community and the wellbeing that sport inspires. We’re excited for the future and can’t wait to share the next chapter with the club and the fans.

We are supporting Sussex Skills 25 – join us at the AMEX this September!

We’re pleased to be supporting the Sussex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and the upcoming Sussex Skills 25 conference – a major event focused on shaping the future workforce across our region.

Tuesday 30 September 2025 – AMEX Stadium, Brighton

This free event is a must-attend for any business interested in solving skills and workforce shortages, improving access to training, and influencing how local colleges, universities and training providers respond to employer needs.

Why should you attend?

✔️ Have your say in shaping local training that meets your needs
✔️ Hear the latest on the proposed Sussex Devolution deal
✔️ Learn how the LSIP is already delivering changes that benefit employers
✔️ Hear directly from other businesses about how they’re tackling skills challenges
✔️ Discover the skills your workforce will need next – from AI to adaptability
✔️ Make valuable connections with other employers, providers and local authorities

This is your chance to help shape the next phase of the LSIP – and ensure training provision in Sussex reflects your sector’s real needs.

Reserve your free place today:
https://www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/events-training/ems-event-calendar/sussex-skills-25.html

DW Renewable Energy are walking 100km to raise funds for Sight Support Worthing

Two Blokes. One Cause. 100 Kilometres. 24 Hours. Let’s Go.

DW Renewable Energy Ltd are swapping kilowatts for kilometres when Simon and James attempt the near-impossible: walking 100km across the rugged South Downs Way—in just 24 hours, on September 6th, 2025.

Why? For Sight Support Worthing—a remarkable local charity that’s been helping people with visual impairments live independently, confidently, and with dignity for over 100 years.

Founded in 1910, Sight Support Worthing has supported generations of local residents with everything from mobility and technology support to emotional wellbeing, social connection, and essential daily living guidance. In a world that often isn’t designed for visual impairment, their work makes an enormous difference—every single day.

We first met Jackie and Kate from the charity at a local Clean Growth Sustainability course, and were blown away by both their warmth and their drive. They’d already created a printed carbon reduction plan and had begun implementing it. Their passion for creating a more sustainable future was genuinely inspiring, and we wanted to help however we could.

That led to this: a commitment to take on the South Coast Ultra Challenge—100km in under 24 hours—to help raise funds that support Sight Support Worthing’s ongoing work and future sustainability goals.

Whether the money raised goes toward energy-saving tech, community services, or simply keeping their doors open—we know they’ll put it to good use.

We’ll be sharing training updates, kit tests, and behind-the-scenes highs and lows in the run-up to the big day—so follow DW Renewable Energy on our social media pages to track our progress, cheer us on, and get a few laughs at our pain.

If you’re able to give, no matter how much, please support our journey. Every step is powered by your generosity—and probably a disturbing number of blister plasters.

Let’s help Sight Support Worthing see a brighter, greener future.

Donate now. Share the page. Then sit back, relax, and feel very smug about not walking 100km in a day.

https://sswcharity.org.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/dwenergyuk/

https://uk.linkedin.com/company/dw-energy

https://www.facebook.com/DWEnergyUK/

Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Phoenix Systems share - a Guide to Racking & Mezzanine Floors for Better Storage & Workspaces

Your space is valuable and how you use it has a massive impact on not just on storage, but also business productivity, efficiency and your bottom line.  Mezzanine floors and racking solutions are cost-effective and highly adaptable workspace solutions that help  you optimise your space and have enabled many businesses to expand while avoiding the substantial costs associated with moving to larger premises.

This quick guide outlines the benefits of both mezzanine and racking systems and some key considerations when planning a new fit-out.

Mezzanine Floors with Racking: Capitalise on Every Square Metre

Mezzanine floors create an intermediate floor between floors of the building or your roof.  The addition of this extra floor immediately expands your available building footprint.  Many businesses choose to combine a mezzanine system with racking storage systems to gain budget-friendly storage that can be configured to utilise every centimetre of available space, even up to apex roofs.  

The Benefits of Mezzanine Floors with Racking

●       Maximise Your Vertical Space
Vertical space is often dead space, but why not make the most of it when you’re already paying rent on it? Mezzanine floors unlock precious square metres, giving you the opportunity to expand with expanded office areas or increased storage. 

●       Flexible by Design - And Adds Value

Mezzanine platforms offer unparalleled adaptability for almost any space, as your layout is designed according to your specific needs and can be expanded and re-configured over time as your business evolves.  What’s more, if you own the property, adding to the building’s footprint and functionality will increase its sales or rental value.

●       Utilise Unused Space
Overhead areas are often overlooked because they are inaccessible.  Racking systems with mezzanines can help you transform unused ‘air’ space, meaning you can maximise your warehouse capacity without having to look for additional storage elsewhere.
 

●       Multi-functional
Mezzanine floors enable you to get creative with the space you have by creating functional areas within your existing building that you can use for offices, break-out areas, storage, production and even retail.

3 Key Considerations When Choosing Mezzanine Floors with Racking

1. Initial Investment
   Like anything in business, any change or improvement will require a budget.  Mezzanine installations do require a significant upfront investment, however this will be balanced over time against storage cost savings, additional rent costs for larger or additional sites and improved efficiency. To get an accurate insight on what you can do for your budget, speak to our experienced Interiors team.

1. Get Expert Installation
   Get an expert team to help you install mezzanine and racking systems as building upwards introduces complexity.  All mezzanine construction requires meticulous planning and engineering expertise to ensure your project complies with all safety regulations.
   
2. Plan & Budget for Maintenance
   Your annual operational budget will need to accommodate for periodic inspections, upkeep and safety compliance.

Racking Storage Only: A Practical, Long-Term Storage Solution

Racking isn’t just for warehouses and industrial applications.  Racking shelving systems provide a more robust, safer and more efficient alternative to traditional shelving in all types of work spaces. 

The Benefits of Racking Systems for Storage

●       Cost-Efficient Storage
Ground-level racking is a budget-friendly storage solution that maximises both floor space and storage for all types of inventory, from small boxes to pallets. By creating a more efficient storage layout, it allows more items to be stored in a given area than traditional shelving.

●       Ease-of-Access & Improved Safety

Ground-level racking is accessible, stable and robust. Designed to securely hold heavy loads, they not only make warehouse operations more efficient, they reduce the risk of accidents and injury.

●       Simple Installation
Racking systems are straightforward and fast to install meaning business disruption and mess is kept to the minimum.

●       Low Maintenance
Racking systems are simple structures but durable and designed for heavy use over many years. As a result, they have low maintenance requirements keeping ongoing costs to a minimum.

Key Considerations for Choosing Ground Level Racking Systems

 Utilising Available Vertical Space

1. Racking at ground level imposes height restrictions which can limit your storage capacity in your space. Vertical expansion options are limited by the space and type of racking, potentially hindering scalability as your inventory grows.
   
2. Making the Most of Your Footprint
   Storage systems that have grown organically over time can lead to horizontal sprawl and an inefficient use of space.  To optimise storage within a confined footprint needs planning and at times, creative solutions and very accurate measurements!  By using an experienced team of storage planners (like the team at Phoenix Systems) you’ll be able to save time while gaining the most efficient storage floor plan, maximum space usage and eliminate the head scratching!

1. Get the Right Layout From the Start
   Racking systems are a fixed structure, once they are up, the potential to adapt the system is limited. Re-configuration is possible as your inventory demands change but it will require effort and resources. To optimise your storage system for the long-term, it’s advisable to get an expert to plan your storage system for you, so that you can get the most from your space.

When planning your interiors and storage project, both mezzanine with racking and ground-level racking systems provide a huge opportunity to make the most of your existing space.  Whichever solution you choose, Phoenix System’s experienced team can help you plan to make the most of all your available space to maximise the return-on-investment for your budget.

Sussex LSIP invite you to attend Sussex Skills 25. 

This important event taking place on Tuesday 30 September at the Amex Stadium is an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come in addressing workforce skills needs across Sussex — and to look ahead at how we continue to shape the future of skills with your important input, insight, and involvement.

 Sussex Skills 25 is the area's key skills conference for employers. Whether you're recruiting now or planning ahead, this is your chance to influence and benefit from the changes happening through the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP).

 What to expect from the conference:

• Devolution in Sussex – what it means for employers
  Find out how the proposed devolution deal could give Sussex more control over key areas like skills, transport, and infrastructure — and what that means for your workforce and business decisions.
• Business-led sessions
  Hear from Sussex employers who’ve worked with the LSIP to shape training and strengthen talent pipelines. See how collaboration with colleges has brought real benefits for businesses, both now and for the future.
• Skills for the Future – AI, adaptability, and agentic thinking
  Discover the emerging skills your business will need to stay competitive — from AI and digital tools to creativity and adaptability. Learn how to start building a future-ready workforce today.
• Pitchside Chats
  Join dynamic, no-slides-needed conversations focused on what local employers really need. Honest, informal discussions that put your priorities at the heart of the skills system.

The event is free to attend and includes a buffet lunch. You can register your attendance via the Sussex Chamber's website here.

As a local business and employer, your presence on the day is hugely important. You’ve played a central role in guiding this work, and your visibility demonstrates our shared commitment to shaping a stronger skills system for Sussex.

We’d also be grateful if you could help spread the word through your networks — particularly to other businesses who would benefit from engaging with the LSIP, hearing from peers, and exploring the opportunities it presents.

Esteem are looking for a Chief Officer

If you’re excited by collaborative leadership, shared power and championing youth agency, we’d love to hear from you.

The incoming Chief Officer will be joining Esteem at a pivotal time of consolidation and potential growth, with opportunities and challenges that require both visionary and pragmatic leadership. 

What success looks like

1. Dynamic, inspiring, and truly participatory leadership, nurturing Esteem's unique ethos and facilitating young adults and staff as co-creators in the organisation's mission and future, while upholding the strategic and governance frameworks set by the board of trustees.

2. Together with the chair, enable the board of trustees to fulfil its duties and responsibilities for the proper governance of Esteem and to ensure that the board receives timely advice and appropriate information on all relevant matters

How you’ll make it happen

To provide facilitative leadership to Esteem, working collaboratively with the Senior Leadership Team, and to be responsible for the management and administration of Esteem within the strategic and accountability frameworks laid down by the board of trustees and the Charity Commission.

View the Recruitment Pack here

View the Job Description here

View the Person Specification here

View the Application Form here

Carpenter Box announces further merger in the South East

The growth strategy of Sussex and South East accountancy firm Carpenter Box, part of Sumer Group, the fastest-growing mid-market accountancy practice, continues apace, with news that it is merging with Hove-based Boormans Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers.

The agreement follows the firm’s merger in April with Lewes-based Clark Brownscombe and will see Boormans’ staff join the Carpenter Box team in Brighton, with Matt Virgo, Director at Boormans, joining as a Partner, Mike Herriott taking on the role of Associate Director and Sally Virgo joining in Operations and Compliance. The firm’s team of professionals will join Sumer Group’s growing network of over 2,300 colleagues across more than 50 offices nationwide.

Commented Alan Edwards, Managing Partner at Carpenter Box: “I’m delighted to announce the merger with Boormans and to welcome the Directors and staff into the Carpenter Box family.  Boormans specialises in the media, construction/property and retail sectors, working with SMEs, families and private clients, and will be a perfect addition to our service provision across the South East.”

Matt Virgo added: “This merger is a significant step forward for our business as well as our client base. We already offer a full range of accountancy, tax and cloud accounting services and this merger will provide us with additional resources and specialist knowledge to enhance our client relationships.”

Carpenter Box, part of the Sumer Group of regional accountancy practices, is an award-winning firm of chartered accountants, tax specialists and business advisers with a reputation for innovation and excellence. The firm, which now has 28 Partners and over 270 members of staff, operates across the South East and in London, with specialist teams helping businesses and entrepreneurs succeed in a profitable, sustainable and tax-efficient way.

Photo L-R: Mike Herriot, Alan Edwards, Sally Virgo, Mike Virgo

www.carpenterbox.com

Bird & Blend Tea Co. Unveils World’s Cutest Hello Kitty Tea & Matcha Collection

Global lifestyle icon Hello Kitty, beloved by fans of all ages since the 1970s, has teamed up with independent tea company Bird & Blend Tea Co. to launch the cutest tea collection ever.

If you love Hello Kitty’s world of friendship and fun you can now sip it too, and share a cup of Pink Apple Pie Tea and Pink Apple Pie Matcha with loved ones. A magical treat for Hello Kitty fans across the country.

Tea company Bird & Blend are leading the way with tea innovation in the UK, creating exciting flavours by blending a range of ingredients including flowers, chocolate and fruit. Sanrio GmbH have worked closely with the tea experts at Bird & Blend to create the new Hello Kitty inspired teas. The collection also includes limited edition Rainbow tea spoons, a pink cold brew bottle and Hello Kitty mug, so fans can create their own perfectly pink tea party at home.

Launching as part of this exclusive collection are four products that bring Hello Kitty’s magic to tea time:

● Hello Kitty Pink Apple Pie Tea & Tin - A caffeine free, sweet pink tea inspired by Hello Kitty’s beloved apple pie! Packed full of comforting apple & cinnamon with cute candy sprinkles, this loose leaf tea comes in a collectable pink Hello Kitty tin.

● Hello Kitty Pink Apple Pie Matcha - A pink matcha in a 30g limited edition pouch featuring Hello Kitty! The cutest matcha around; sweet, comforting and pink.

● Rainbow Perfect Spoon - Part spoon, part unicorn, this limited edition spoon is a whole mood, perfect for every scoop of Hello Kitty tea and matcha.

● Hello Kitty Mug - Hello Kitty tea should be sipped in the cutest mug around, this one is embossed with Hello Kitty’s face.

Bird & Blend Co-Founder, Mike Turner, commented, “Creating a Hello Kitty tea collection with Sanrio has been an incredible experience. We loved infusing the playful spirit of Hello Kitty into every aspect of the teas and accessories. The teas are full of flavour, fun, and a little bit of magic.”

The tea will be sold online at Bird & Blend and in all Bird & Blend stores across the UK from 11th July. The Hello Kitty range will be priced from £3.85.

Whether you’re a lifelong Hello Kitty fan or simply love a good cuppa with a twist, this limited edition collection is a tea party not to be missed.