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Discover how Simply Kitchens is thriving through economic uncertainty.
08 October 2025
Founded in 2003 by Nathan Hopper, Founder & Director of Simply Kitchens, the business has grown into one of the region’s most trusted kitchen retailers and installers. Known for its corporate professionalism and the personal touch of a local business, Simply Kitchens has built its reputation on quality, service, and a showroom-led experience that helps customers bring their dream kitchens to life.
But like many ambitious SMEs, Nathan is leading the business through one of the most unpredictable economic climates in recent history.
Simply Kitchens has experienced impressive top-line growth, with sales rising by 20% year over year. However, rising costs have squeezed margins, creating new challenges for financial planning.
“Our sales are up around 20% year-on-year, yet our profitability is down – that’s the impact of rising costs eating into margins.”
One of the most challenging issues has been the sharp rise in business rates, which increased by 140% overnight. This was a significant blow for a showroom-led business: business rates are a tax on property, not profit, which means costs increased dramatically even as the company was working hard to maintain margins.
Remortgaging property also brought higher monthly repayments, putting further pressure on cash flow. Recruitment decisions became more difficult, with Nathan cautious about taking on additional staff, as it can take six to twelve months for new hires to deliver a return on investment.
Together, these pressures make long-term decision-making far more complex than previous downturns.
Alongside short-term cost management, Nathan focuses on the bigger picture: succession planning and wealth protection. Issues such as inheritance tax, pensions, and capital gains are at the front of his mind as he considers how to safeguard what he has built.
“Inheritance tax is constantly on my mind – it’s not healthy. Like many business owners, I want to protect what I’ve built and ensure it goes to my children.”
Having a clear plan in place, supported by trusted advisers, has never been more critical.
Our relationship with Simply Kitchens goes far beyond compliance. We work closely with Nathan and his team to provide strategic insight, proactive planning, and reassurance at every stage.
“What I value most is that I only have to make a phone call or send an email, and there is advice. That responsiveness makes a massive difference.”
“Bishop Fleming is big enough to cover every base, but personable enough to feel like you’re dealing with a small firm. It’s the best of both worlds.”
This partnership allows Simply Kitchens to confidently focus on growth, knowing that its financial position is protected and its future plans are well supported.
What makes the partnership work so well is a shared ethos. Simply Kitchens presents a professional, corporate face to customers while remaining deeply rooted in its community – an approach that mirrors how Bishop Fleming operates.
“We present a corporate, professional face, but at heart we’re a local business that prides itself on personal service. That’s exactly how Bishop Fleming operate too.”
Even in a challenging trading environment, Simply Kitchens continues to grow, adapt, and plan for the future. With Bishop Fleming as a trusted adviser, Nathan has the clarity and resilience to protect what matters, make confident decisions, and build for the next generation.
Contact Bishop Fleming today for expert advice and personalised support.
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