Today’s retail industry is moving faster than ever before. With constant changes in systems and processes, it’s imperative that business owners keep up with new ideas and trends – or risk being left behind. That’s why it’s so important to work with the right advisory firm. This month, we talk to business owners Graham Johnston, and Andy and Jenny Davis.

Thanks for speaking with us, please would you tell us a bit about your business.

Graham: We own five Spar shops and a restaurant in the Belfast area, including a number of post offices, a petrol station and off-licences within the Spars. They’re busy hubs of activity and we’re lucky to have great teams and customers at each. In fact, our Spar business is one of the biggest groups within the Spar franchise network, which is something we’re very proud of.

With a busy network of shops how do you keep on top of it all?

Jenny: Well, it goes back to not trying to do everything yourself. Yes, Graham, Andy and I will set the strategic direction of the business but we can’t do it all. You have to be able to rely on a brilliant team and the right partners. That’s why we work with Baker Tilly Mooney Moore, who manage all of our payroll and annual accounts. They’re a reliable team and experts in their field so knowing we have them to rely on is a huge asset to us.

Why did you choose to work with a firm like Baker Tilly Mooney Moore?

Andy: We’re a progressive and growing business; and we want to expand further. The only way to do that is to have trusted partners who can help you navigate the course. Baker Tilly Mooney Moore has a reputation for being  reliable, professional and innovative – knowing that we’re tapping in to solid information and advice is a huge positive for us.

This article first appeared in the November edition of Ulster Grocer.