Wiltshire-based accountancy firm Charlton Baker has been honoured as Small Business of the Year at the esteemed Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards. Held at London’s Grosvenor Hotel, the glittering ceremony brought together over 1,000 of the UK’s top business leaders and was hosted by renowned broadcaster Anita Rani.
The accolade comes as a crowning achievement for the Devizes-headquartered firm, capping off a transformational year marked by rapid growth and strategic acquisitions. In just 12 months, Charlton Baker‘s team has nearly doubled, expanding from 45 to close to 90 staff members. The firm’s turnover has surged, with revenues jumping from £2.64 million in March 2024 to an anticipated £6 million by March 2025.
Charlton Baker stood out amongst nine other category finalists, including local competitor Varn, a digital marketing agency from Wiltshire, which received a Highly Commended recognition. The firm’s success is attributed to its dynamic vision and impressive acquisitions strategy over the past year.
In a major move, Charlton Baker secured a partnership with alternative finance provider ThinCats in June. This agreement enabled a string of acquisitions, starting with Melksham-based A&N Accountants and Trowbridge’s Innervision Accountants. Expansion continued with significant purchases in Bristol, including Elliott Bunker Chartered Accountants and Tyler Redmore Accountants, and more recently, Inca Accountants in Wantage.
The judges commended Charlton Baker’s standout performance, noting that they “absolutely smashed it and thoroughly deserved the win” amidst a highly competitive pool of finalists.
Reflecting on this remarkable milestone, managing director Scott Sartin, who has been with the firm since 1996, shared: “Winning the Best Small Business category is a profound honour and a testament to what we’ve built. Since setting our vision in 2016 to redefine accountancy’s role, it’s incredibly rewarding to have our efforts recognised by respected leaders.” Sartin also highlighted that the award has fuelled the firm’s ambition to continue being a leader in the sector for both clients and staff.
COO Victoria Greenard echoed Sartin’s sentiments, remarking: “This prestigious national award is an incredible achievement for everyone at Charlton Baker. It represents the culmination of our hard work and dedication. Sharing this moment with so many inspiring figures in the business world reinforces our drive and passion.”
