Helping South West owner-managed businesses thrive

Owner-managed businesses (OMBs) are the heartbeat of the South West economy, driving innovation, growth, and community impact.

As an ambitious OMB ourselves, we know firsthand the unique needs and challenges OMBs face - because we are one. Following another successful year of our “Better Growth” strategy, we are in a unique position to share relevant insights and strategies that empower OMBs to thrive in an increasingly complex financial landscape.

A significant part of our recent success is the growth of our Audit service line, particularly our focus on the corporate mid-market. This drive has resulted in Bishop Fleming auditing more owner-managed businesses in the latest South West Business Insider Top 100 Owner-Managed Businesses list than any other firm.

Championing the heart of the economy

In our article, "Owner-Managed Businesses: the Backbone of the UK Economy," these businesses play a pivotal role in driving regional and national prosperity. OMBs face unique challenges, including scaling operations, meeting regulatory requirements, securing financing, and adapting to shifting market conditions. At Bishop Fleming, we understand these challenges and provide tailored audit, tax, accountancy, and advisory services designed to address them, enabling OMBs to focus on what matters most – sustainable growth.

More than auditors – trusted advisors

Our approach goes beyond traditional auditing. We see ourselves as strategic partners, working alongside OMBs to ensure compliance, enhance financial efficiency, manage risks, and identify growth opportunities. With the pressure of balancing day-to-day operations and long-term strategies while staying compliant with ever-evolving regulations, OMBs rely on our insights and expertise. We provide the support they need to operate smoothly, invest in their future, and secure lasting success.

A partnership for success

Bishop Fleming’s presence across the South West and West Midlands is reflected in the strength of our partnerships with owner-managed businesses. Our longstanding relationships with OMBs on the Insider South West’s Top 100 list showcase the value we bring as trusted advisors and strategic partners.

When a client on the Top 100 list faced the challenge of reorganising their operations while laying the groundwork for future growth, they turned to Bishop Fleming for support. Together, we navigated this pivotal phase, helping them to focus on achieving their goals:

We began working with Bishop Fleming several years ago to support us with reorganising and growing our business. We have found them to be very pragmatic and proactive, coming up with ideas to help us achieve our objectives. Alongside this, they have been attentive to our needs with timely and accurate advice and an efficient audit and tax service. They partner with us to support our business goals and build a relationship for the long term which is based on openness and honesty. I am very pleased with the consistently professional service we get from working with their team and would definitely recommend their services.

Finance Director, Indrani Keeley

Another standout example is Murray VW Group, a multi-award-winning family-owned business that has represented Volkswagen in the South West of England since 2001.

I am delighted to, once again, be listed in the OMB 100 rankings and have made the Top 40 this year. Our growth is truly testament to the focus we put on providing excellent customer service through our market leading brands and the quality and depth of experience of our teams. We really appreciated being recognised in this way.
We have been with Bishop Fleming for several years now, having outgrown our old accountants, and they came highly recommended. They have a wide spectrum of specialisms and genuinely act as a true partner to the business, adding value to support our business goals. I would not hesitate to recommend their services.

Owner & Managing Director, Kevin Murray

These relationships are not just about delivering excellent service, they exemplify our commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs and ambitions. Our work with the region’s top OMBs, from emerging businesses to established market leaders, highlights our role in fostering their resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth.

We are proud to support the businesses that form the backbone of the South West economy. As the challenges of today’s financial landscape evolve, our longstanding partnerships with OMBs ensure we are well-positioned to help them unlock new opportunities and achieve long-term success.