Clarkson’s Farm star celebrates after business marks another milestone

The business explained the move as a response to “sky-rocketing demand” for its services and expertise.

Ceres Group’s geographic reach is being extended to both the north and the south-west as it establishes offices in Northampton, Newbury and Stamford, in a move which will see staff numbers grow to over 100.

Just four years after its launch, its rapid growth continues, reflecting the industry’s appetite for its diverse range of specialist rural services, the team added.

Targeted expansion means they can meet the continued and increasingly urgent need for independent advice, said managing partner Charlie Ireland, who highlights the on-going challenges and economic uncertainty faced by many.

Mr Ireland continued: “Pressures on the Agricultural Budget, sluggish markets and a lack of detail about future levels of funding are creating a perfect storm for farming and associated businesses.

“With cash flows affected and confidence at an all-time low, there’s huge demand for good advice, strategic direction and consultancy services that help these businesses make plans for a profitable future.”

For many, that means striking a balance between productivity and sustainability, while seeking new opportunities and income streams, he added.

“These are the issues that our team of qualified consultants are dealing with daily, on both small family-owned farms and in much larger organisations. It makes sense to expand our reach.”

The Stamford base will allow Ceres Group to service the growing needs of Lincolnshire businesses as well as those across the East Midlands, while the Newbury office gives the consultancy easier access to those in the south-west.

The Northampton office is set to introduce an important geographic bridge, facilitating the provision of services from east to west, across the Midlands.

It will also house an important knowledge centre for changing on-farm management practices, as farmers respond to the agricultural transition while dealing with the effects of climate change and tight margins.

The three new sites take Ceres Group to a total of eight offices. Existing locations include Shrewsbury, Chelmsford, Norwich, Saffron Walden and Oxford, which are now being joined by Northampton, Stamford and Newbury.

For further information on Ceres Group’s expansion and range of services, contact managing partner Richard Means or visit www.ceresrural.co.uk and www.ceresproperty.co.uk

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