Hi {{first_name | Kent Business Community}}

Welcome to Thursday’s edition of the Kent Business Newsletter.

This week read about how a 40 year old manufacturing specialist in Chatham sharpens its position after a major acquisition, while a local law firm marks one year on from a merger that has strengthened its services and client offering.

There is also a focus on support and savings. A Kent food wholesaler is helping care homes improve nutrition and operations, while a new local venture is helping households cut hundreds of pounds from their annual bills.

And one headline every small business should note: 94% are still not ready for Making Tax Digital, with the deadline just days away.

➡️ Got a business launch, win or story to share? Send it to [email protected] and we’ll help spread the word - for free!

If you missed previous editions you can catch-up here.

Chatham based Custom Wytelyne has unveiled a refreshed brand identity following its acquisition by BAMUK Group in May 2024. The powder coating specialist says the update reflects clarity rather than change, reinforcing a 40 year record of technical rigour and consistent quality. Under General Manager Matthew Hodges and Managing Director Dave Fisk, the business continues to serve manufacturers across Britain from its Kent facility, including operating the county’s only dedicated aluminium pre treatment system.

Now part of BAMUK Group alongside Furnitubes and Contracts Engineering, Custom Wytelyne sits within a vertically integrated manufacturing structure spanning design, fabrication and finishing. Certified by AkzoNobel, Tiger Coatings UK and ISO 9001, the company maintains an on site laboratory and focuses on longevity over low cost. The rebrand signals stability for clients who depend on finishes built to last decades.

➡️ See how BAMUK plans to build on this foundation.

Stantons Solicitors is marking one year since acquiring Sharpe & Perl Solicitors, bringing together two long established firms in Gravesend and New Ash Green. What began as a careful transition has become a steady and measured integration. All Sharpe & Perl staff remained in place, protecting trusted relationships and ensuring continuity for clients. That stability helped maintain confidence while laying the groundwork for a broader and more connected practice.

Over the past year, clients have gained access to a wider range of services, including conveyancing, family law, wills and probate, and Notary work. Behind the scenes, improved systems and processes have strengthened efficiency and communication. The New Ash Green office remains central to the firm’s local presence and community ties.

➡️ See how the merger reshaped local legal services.

Kent based foodservice wholesaler kff has unveiled a wide ranging support programme to help care homes deliver high quality, nutritionally balanced meals. The initiative centres on a new Care Home Catering Hub, giving teams access to product information, menu ideas, operational advice, and sector specific guidance. A detailed brochure outlines kff’s range tailored for care settings, while dietary factsheets cover allergens, texture modification, and specialist diets to help staff meet complex nutritional needs with confidence.

Structured menu cycles are designed to ease planning and maintain consistent standards, while training opportunities aim to strengthen skills across catering teams. Care homes can also draw on kff’s development chefs and nutrition specialists for tailored advice and hands on support. With next day delivery and a broad product range, kff positions itself as both supplier and long term partner.

➡️ Explore what this means for care catering.

A new Kent business is promising real savings as household costs continue to rise. Gill Pont has launched as a Utility Warehouse partner, helping local families cut the cost of energy, broadband and mobile by bundling services into one package. Utility Warehouse is a FTSE 250 company with 28 years of trading and more than 1.4 million customers. Gill, a former accountant, reviews household bills and highlights ways to reduce costs and simplify monthly admin. Customers joining through her are saving an average of £600 a year, with some reaching £1,200, alongside cashback and help with exit fees.

Gill says she was sceptical at first but changed her mind after seeing the savings achieved. The flexible model also allows her to manage a chronic illness while building a business. She now hopes to support others seeking adaptable work and to partner with local charities to raise funds through referrals.

➡️ See how much local households are really saving.

A new poll by accountancy firm Azets shows 94% of UK businesses are not ready for Making Tax Digital, which takes effect on 6 April. More than 63% said they were not prepared at all, while 31% had only started getting ready. Fewer than 6% reported being fully prepared. The changes will require digital record keeping, MTD compatible software, quarterly updates and a final declaration. Azets called it the biggest tax overhaul since self assessment began 29 years ago.

From next month, landlords, sole traders and self employed people earning over £50,000 must comply. Around 864,000 individuals will be affected initially, rising to 2.9 million within three years as thresholds fall. Many remain unsure about reporting rules, compliance steps and software choices.

➡️ Check what April’s tax shift demands now.

On the show this week with Paul Andrews was Phill Thorne of Bay Branded Merch!

Enhance your brand’s identity with expertly crafted branded merchandise from Bay Branded Merch in Herne Bay. Their team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life, ensuring every item features your logo with precision and adheres to your brand guidelines seamlessly.

They collaborate closely with you to create strong graphic artwork that reflects your brand’s personality. Whether you need custom apparel, promotional items, or unique giveaways, Bay Branded Merch delivers high-quality products designed to make a lasting impression. You can rely on them to handle your branding needs with creativity and professionalism, helping elevate your brand.

To listen to this week’s show in full visit Kent Business Radio

{{first_name | Kent Business Community}}, before you go…

➡️ Don’t miss the latest networking events near you - https://www.kentbusinessevents.co.uk
➡️ Do you have news or announcements you’d like to share about your business?

Contact us today - [email protected]

If you enjoyed this article, please subscribe and pass it on to another Kent business owner who might also like it! Thanks.