New Honiton gym opens after Griffin steps in

A bespoke gym has opened in Honiton after bank funding was arranged by Griffin Chartered Accountants.

Entrepreneur Craig Bernhardt of B Health & Fitness, who already runs a successful gym in Dorset, was initially turned down for funding by his bank. Graham Higgins from Griffin stepped in to develop the business plan and facilitate discussions with other banks.

The first bank he approached agreed to fund £175K for the new venture.

With additional funding secured through private investors, the fitout of the gym went ahead in time for the planned opening on January 2. This included the installation of a mezzanine floor, changing rooms, studio and purchase of state of the art gym equipment.

Craig said: “Griffin’s support has been second to none and when I needed help in compiling a business plan for my expansion plans, Graham Higgins was superb.

“The plan he put together was first class and helped secure funding from one of the big five banks.”

Griffin Chartered Accountants has previously prepared financial information for the sale of £3M turnover military clothing business Arktis Endurance Textiles, and is currently working with another Devon business to secure funding for its expansion plans.

Graham Higgins said: “We are unusual in being a smaller-sized firm that doesn’t have a surfeit of sole traders but tends to work with larger companies where we can add more value with our expertise.”

Founded in 2015, Griffin is experiencing rapid growth and is currently seeking three new employees to add to its team of eight managing the company’s expanding portfolio. Potential employees can expect a competitive salary and opportunities for progression from this young, hungry business.