The recession was tough but smaller
practices found ways to survive the harsh climate, writes Calum Robson
The recession posed challenges for firms and their clients alike
– but while recovery may be underway, the threat of a double
dip remains. Along with their clients, accountancy firms have had
to adapt to survive the torrid economic conditions. Some practices
abandoned plans to win new business when times were toughest, instead
focusing on keeping hold of existing clients who might be tempted
by less costly alternatives. Colin Howe, president of the UK200Group,
and business strategy partner at independent firm Hillier Hopkins,
says: ‘Under-cutting has certainly been a problem; some clients
have negotiated fees downward by 10% or more.’
Ma
