Business

South West accountancy firm Simpkins Edwards is celebrating its acceptance to the Association of Independent Specialist Medical Accountants (AISMA), the national network of UK accountancy firms providing expert advice to medical practices, sessional GPs and hospital doctors.

The milestone marks a significant moment for the firm’s healthcare team, as members must meet demanding requirements before being accepted. These include a panel interview, demonstration of specialist expertise and regular peer reviews to ensure consistently high standards.

The AISMA Charter sets out...

Creating a comfortable environment will help keep employees willing and able to work longer, letting you maximise every minute of the working day. Temperature may seem like a fairly insignificant factor, but research shows it plays a role in driving efficiency as well as supporting employee wellbeing. So, what is that Goldilocks temperature, and how can you fine-tune your workplace to keep staff focused?

1. Understanding legal obligations

You’re required by law to maintain an appropriate temperature in the workplace. For indoor environments, it should be...

South West employers are facing a growing financial burden as multiple wage, tax and compliance changes converge ahead of April. Mark Simic from Simpkins Edwards explains why businesses across the region are bracing for a cumulative rise in employment costs following measures introduced in the 2025 Autumn Budget.

He said: “The combined effect of several overlapping measures is beginning to impact the bottom line. Changes to the National Living Wage, employer National Insurance contributions and wider tax policy are all landing within a relatively short timeframe, creating a...

Business Fest South West (#BizFestSW) will take over Westpoint Arena, Exeter, on Wednesday 1 April 2026, bringing together hundreds of business owners, founders and decision-makers for an event that is reshaping expectations of what regional business gatherings can deliver.

With fewer than 20 exhibitor spaces remaining for the second #BizFestSW and the third major event delivered by Four Front Events, the festival has quickly established itself as the home of serious connection, commercial opportunity and regional confidence at a time when the market is challenging and competition...