A professional services firm in Herefordshire has opened up a new business hub in the heart of the county. Jones Hunt Keelings recently acquired new office space in the region, and is planning to use it to help businesses collaborate and share knowledge as they adapt to a changing economy.
Jones Hunt Keelings (JHK) is Herefordshire-based accounting and consulting firm established in 1902 – which provides a full range of tailored financial services, including bookkeeping, auditing, tax advice and support for start-ups. The firm is currently experiencing a spike in demand – because there has never been a time where start-ups have been stronger in its home county.
More than 14,000 new start-ups were established in Hertfordshire in 2024, and there have never been more businesses operating in the county. Now, from a new 6,000 square foot office space in Hitchin, JHK believes it is in a prime position to support that growing community.
The firm has enjoyed a strong period of growth in recent years, making four acquisitions since 2013 and driving an annual rise in turnover of 15%. The new office, which is more than 50% larger than its previous headquarters, will build on this by supporting Hertfordshire’s thriving entrepreneurial community.
Made possible following a £1.56 million term funding loan from Lloyds, the firm’s vision is to transform the space into a hotbed of business growth in Hitchin. As well as supplying accountancy, legal and other business support, to help its clients navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape, JHK will also offer up a hub where its network of partners and clients can collaborate, share knowledge and boost skills.
Alf Del Basso, partner at JHK, said, “The need to significantly bolster our support for SMEs has never been more important, as they look to navigate the raft of recent legislation and a constantly evolving economic landscape. This is why we wanted to bring a new business hub to the region, to provide our clients with easy access to all their advisory needs, and Lloyds’ support has made a real impact on our efforts to help the thriving entrepreneurial community in Hitchin. So when we saw this office space on the market, we knew it was a fantastic opportunity. Moving into a much larger space will also help us as we continue to grow, and I’m really looking forward to moving there later this year.”
Looking ahead, Russell Dermont, relationship director at Lloyds, added that while JHK is “always looking for ways to grow,” its investment does not only boost the firm itself.
Dermott concluded, “JHK is also committed to helping other local firms to thrive. Encouraging collaboration with this new local hub will help Hertfordshire’s wider business community achieve its ambitions for growth, and it was inspiring to work with JHK and help it progress its plans for this.”