Looking Ahead: Brexit: for better or worse, it’s business as usual for now

By John Whittingslow, chief executive of Napthens

We see 2017 as presenting clear growth opportunities for those who are prepared to meet challenges and plan accordingly. For Napthens, we will be focussed on realising the potential that our

It’s obvious that we are only scratching the surface with regards to the Cumbria, South Lancashire and North Merseyside areas so our aim will be to make sure we develop the business and embed ourselves even more firmly within those communities.

One of the challenges for 2017 may be Brexit, however the devil is in the detail. Currently it’s business as usual, but whether that will change remains to be seen. I suspect it will, but it’s hard to say whether it will be for better or for worse.

Since the most recent recession there has always seemed to be an issue each year which affects the UK economy and stops a full return to buoyancy. However, teams across all three of our divisions, commercial, real estate and private client continue to grow. By example, recent Land Registry figures show that our conveyancing team acted in the most purchase transactions in Lancashire last year. We finished 2016 very strongly and hope to see this momentum continue well into 2017.

John Green, director and chairman, Pierce Accountants

Carl Speight, vice principal of enterprise and engagement, Preston’s College

Keith Pressler, senior consultant, Taylor Patterson

Stephen Alty, general manager, Festive Lights