The Hollies Bookkeeping are finalists in the LUCA Bookkeeper’s awards!

The Hollies Bookkeeping Services in Shropshire is delighted to announce we are finalists in the LUCA awards, better known as the Oscars of the Bookkeeping Awards!

We entered the awards earlier this year and were recently revealed as one of six finalists in the Large Practice of the Year category.

“After much discussion and deliberation from our judges we are pleased to announce the finalists for the LUCA Bookkeepers Awards 2025. The finalists have been chosen by a panel of independent judges as the very best from this year’s impressive selection of entries.”

The team will find out if they are winners at the awards dinner on 17 November at the QEII Centre, London.

Why We Do What We Do: The Story Behind The Hollies Bookkeeping Services

At The Hollies Bookkeeping Services, we’re more than just numbers and spreadsheets — we’re people helping people. Our small but mighty team of nine part-time staff (plus our three four-legged “employees” who handle staff morale and client greetings) work hard every day to support more than 150 clients across Shropshire and beyond.

From self-assessments and payroll to full bookkeeping support, our mission has always been simple: to make business finances clear, accessible, and stress-free for the local entrepreneurs, sole traders, and small businesses who are the heartbeat of our community.

How It All Began

Our story started back in 2010, when founder Julie completed her ICB qualification in bookkeeping and payroll. Helping her partner with his construction business sparked something bigger — a passion for numbers, order, and helping others find the same clarity. Soon, Julie took on more clients, trained in the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), and built a reputation for reliable, accurate, and friendly service.

By 2012, The Hollies had its first employee, and by 2014, the business had grown into a limited company with five staff, including an Office Administrator who, 11 years later, now leads the team as Office Manager.

Growth Through Change

Over the years, our practice has evolved with technology. What began with traditional Sage50 desktop software has transformed into a flexible, cloud-based system that gives our bookkeepers the freedom to work from home or the office — and gives clients real-time insights into their finances.

The pandemic accelerated our adoption of cloud tools like Dext, Hubdoc, and Xero, ensuring we could continue to deliver seamless service in a changing world. These systems now underpin how we work, allowing us to provide faster, more accurate bookkeeping and greater flexibility for both staff and clients.

We’ve also embraced tools like Ignition and Xero Practice Manager to streamline contracts, payments, and project management — meaning fewer unpaid invoices, smoother communication, and greater client satisfaction.

People First: Our Clients and Our Team

At our core, we’re about relationships. We’ve kept many of our first clients from over a decade ago, a testament to the trust and care we build with every business we support. Our open-door policy means clients can call, email, or drop by any time for advice, reassurance, or just a chat over a cup of tea.

We know bookkeeping isn’t just about balancing the books — it’s about supporting people through the highs and lows of running a business. Whether that’s helping them navigate HMRC changes, discussing future plans, or simply listening, we’re here for them.

All of our bookkeepers are Xero certified (or working towards it), trained in AML compliance, and even First Aid qualified — because we care about each other as much as we care about our clients.

Supporting Our Community

We’re proud to be part of the Shropshire business landscape, where sole traders make up such a vital part of the economy. We offer mentorship and advice through social media groups, networking, and informal chats, always encouraging collaboration over competition.

We’ve also supported new bookkeepers by offering real work experience placements that often turn into long-term employment. It’s our way of giving back to the ICB community that’s helped us grow.

Looking Ahead

The future of bookkeeping is changing fast, and we’re excited about it. AI and automation promise to free us from repetitive data entry and allow us to focus on what we do best — analysis, insights, and human connection.

With Making Tax Digital (MTD) and quarterly self-assessment submissions on the horizon, we’re already helping clients adapt, providing real-time data and meaningful financial reports that empower smarter decision-making.

Through every change, one thing remains constant: our passion for supporting local businesses, building lasting relationships, and delivering service that makes a difference.

At The Hollies, we don’t just keep the books — we help keep businesses thriving.

To talk to us about any aspect of your accounting or bookkeeping, please contact The Hollies Bookkeeping Services on 01743 790086, email info@holliesbookkeeping.co.uk or visit www.holliesbookkeeping.co.uk

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