Client Case Study: Cafeology

Background

Cafeology was formed in Sheffield in 2003 and is one of the largest independently owned coffee companies in the UK, specialising in sourcing the finest ingredients through sustainable and ethical, long-term producers. The company provides direct trade coffees from Central and Southern America, along with a range of associated products including tea, hot chocolate and iced coffees.

Why BHP?

Cafeology was looking for a practice that could offer the complete financial services package, while demonstrating an understanding of both its business and individual requirements. The company was influenced by our reputation in the local area and approached the firm following a referral.

What was the challenge?

Cafeology had been through a challenging time with its payroll provider and the owners were therefore looking for a trusted firm that could provide the full range of tax and business advice, on top of all the typical accounts, tax and payroll services.

They wanted to know and understand exactly what service was being provided and what they were paying for. With plans for future growth, they also wanted to streamline their finance function and essentially take the worry and stress out of managing their business finances.

How did we help?

In the last four years, the BHP team has provided a comprehensive array of services for Cafeology, including VAT returns, payroll, annual accounts, corporation tax, personal tax, R&D tax claims and monthly management information, as well as remuneration planning, quarterly meetings and general day-to-day support.

In addition, we have helped to transform Cafeology’s financial processes through the implementation of a range of apps and software, including GoCardless, Revolut, Dext and A2X – which links Shopify to Xero.

This has enabled Cafeology to streamline its purchase ledger and employee expense claims, and collect direct debits from customers, resulting in reduced time spent on credit control as well as improved cash flow.

Company Director Toni Unkles said:

“We’re delighted with the service that BHP has provided over the last few years. We turned to them at a difficult time and have been really impressed by their knowledge and expertise.

“Their experienced team provides first-class advice and support. Quality is embedded within all aspects of our own business and we’re continually looking to innovate and improve our services, so we’re pleased to have developed a partnership with a firm that shares the same principles.

“It’s great that we feel we can ask for help at any time and know exactly who to contact when we need assistance. We’re aiming to grow our business and feel perfectly placed to do so with the BHP team acting as our advisers.”

Mark Wright, BHP Director and Digital Finance Specialist, said:

“We’ve developed a strong working relationship with Toni and her team, resulting in a great many improvements for the business. As well as providing support and advice on demand, we’re able to assist with planning for the future, and we’re really excited to see what’s next for Cafeology.”

Find out more about how we can support your finance function to help you grow your business: Accounts – BHP, Chartered Accountants