Simplifying IT for a Growing Franchise Network

The Challenge: IT Distractions Impacting TaxAssist Business Growth

With over 350 branches across the UK and Ireland, TaxAssist Accountants is a leading accountancy franchise that provides vital financial services to SMEs. Each franchise operates independently, supported by the Norwich-based Support Centre, which offers technical, marketing, and business development resources. However, franchisees were struggling with IT issues that distracted them from their core focus: growing their businesses.

Franchisees needed an IT solution that was reliable, scalable, and simple—without the complexity and high costs that typically accompany large IT setups. Many came from corporate environments, where IT was fully managed, so dealing with downtime and technical challenges was an unfamiliar and frustrating burden.

The Solution: Acora One’s Tailored IT Package

Acora One stepped in with a bespoke IT support solution designed specifically for TaxAssist franchisees. Initially partnering with the Support Centre in 2013, Acora One quickly proved its value. The next step was offering an exclusive package to franchisees, featuring cloud-hosted solutions that securely housed data and software in Acora’s datacentre. With this, team members could work from anywhere at any time, enhancing flexibility and productivity.

Microsoft Office 365 was included as standard, with the option for franchisees to integrate their own accounting software, like Sage. The goal was clear: minimise IT headaches and maximise the time franchisees could dedicate to client service and growth.

“Franchisees rely on us to put the right package together for them,” says Sarah Robertson, Group Operations Director. “We try to make their lives easier, so they can win more clients and earn more money. Accountants charge for their time, so if their IT isn’t working, they’re losing money.”

The Result: A Trusted, All-in-One Solution

Initially, Acora’s solution was offered alongside two other IT providers. However, franchisees quickly recognised Acora’s superior service, and it became the mandatory provider across the network. “We thought we should spread the risk,” Sarah explains. “But we realised their offering was far superior, both technically and in management style.”

Acora’s ISO certifications and Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation gave franchisees peace of mind, ensuring their sensitive data was secure. “We just felt we were safer with them than anyone else,” adds Sarah. “If something went wrong and an accountant lost all their data, they’d lose their business along with it.”

The Impact: Seamless IT, Focus on Growth

With Acora managing IT, franchisees could focus on what mattered—growing their businesses. The seamless setup allowed for rapid onboarding and scalable solutions without heavy upfront costs. Acora now supports over 900 users across the TaxAssist network, conducting regular reviews to keep the system running smoothly.

Feedback from franchisees has been overwhelmingly positive, or as Sarah puts it, “no news is good news.” Acora’s proactive approach ensures minimal downtime, allowing franchisees to stay productive. “When it’s all working fabulously, it just ticks along,” says Sarah. “The only time we hear anything is when something goes wrong – but we just don’t have that with them.”

With Acora as a trusted partner, TaxAssist franchisees can confidently grow their businesses without the worry of IT issues. “They’re very professional and organised,” Sarah concludes. “But they’re also an absolute pleasure to work with. I’d wholeheartedly recommend them.