How much does it cost?

Fees are typically 0.75% to 1.5% of turnover, depending on the services you need and how many units you run. A like-for-like internal finance team costs roughly 4% to 7% of turnover, so you get the same capability for a fraction of the cost — with no recruitment, no sickness cover and no payroll admin. We confirm a fixed monthly fee after a free introductory meeting, so you know exactly what you are paying before you commit.

Do you work with single sites or only groups?

Both. We typically work with hospitality and retail businesses from one to five sites. The common thread is not size — it is that the owner is ready for proper financial reporting and wants a finance partner rather than someone who files the tax return.

How is a fractional CFO different from an accountant?

An accountant tells you what happened. A fractional CFO helps you decide what to do next. Ours sits on top of the virtual finance department for board meetings, funding rounds, lender conversations, growth decisions and financial models. A full-time CFO costs £150k+ before you start; this gives you the same experience only when you need it.

Yes, tronc schemes and payroll are handled as standard. Tronc distributes tips to staff in a National Insurance efficient way, and the rules changed in 2024: tips must be allocated fairly, with new requirements on how they are handled and taxed. Getting it wrong has a real cost.

Which software do you work with?

We are a Xero Silver Partner and a Xero Retail & Ecommerce specialist, and we work with Dext and ApprovalMax alongside it. We connect to your rota and EPOS systems so information flows automatically rather than being retyped.

Do we have to switch to Xero?

It is our recommendation and where we work fastest, but it is a conversation, not a condition. Tell us what you run now at the introductory meeting and we will be honest about whether moving is worth the disruption.

How quickly can you onboard us?

Most clients are fully live within two to three weeks of signing. Onboarding covers connecting your bank feeds, EPOS and rota systems, agreeing the reporting pack and introducing your named team.

Can you take over mid-year?

Yes. Mid-year is a perfectly normal time to switch. We handle the handover with your outgoing accountant, pick up the year to date and carry on — you do not need to wait for your year end.

What if we are behind on our bookkeeping?

That is one of the most common reasons people call us, and it is not a problem. We will scope the catch-up separately, tell you what it costs up front, and get you current before we start the monthly cycle.

Do you do payroll for hourly staff?

Yes — weekly or monthly, for hourly and salaried staff, including auto-enrolment pensions and tronc. We link to your rota system so hours flow through rather than being re-keyed.

Do you help with funding and landlords?

Yes. We have raised finance from banks and institutions many times, and we help with grant applications, insurance claims, emergency loans, landlord negotiations and HMRC Time To Pay arrangements.

Yes. A UK team, based in Hungerford, working with clients across the UK and heavily in London. You deal with the same named people every time: an Accounts Assistant, an Account Manager and a Director.

Understanding EPR: A Guide for Hospitality and Retail Business Owners

Sep 14

3 min read

Updated: Oct 6

What is Packaging EPR?

The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) Regulations 2024 make organisations that supply or import packaging responsible for the cost of collecting and recycling it. This means that if you’re in the hospitality or retail sector, you’ll need to be aware of how these regulations affect your business.

Obligations begin at specific thresholds. You're considered a small producer if your annual turnover is £1 million or more and you supply or import more than 25 tonnes of packaging a year. Conversely, you're classified as a large producer if your turnover exceeds £2 million and your packaging amounts to more than 50 tonnes.

Does EPR Apply to Your Venue Directly?

For most venues, this question is someone else's problem. If you buy packaged goods from suppliers who exceed a certain threshold, they carry the obligation. However, you’ll notice the impact in the prices you pay. This pass-through effect is how most hospitality businesses feel the pressure of EPR. The exception is for drinks producers and importers, who may have their own obligations.

How Does EPR Impact Different Businesses?

The packaging mix varies by business type, which means the effects of EPR can differ significantly:

Coffee Shops: They deal with cups, lids, and composites in large volumes.
Restaurants: They manage glass, food packaging, and delivery packaging.
Hotels: They have packaging spread across various departments, making it easy to overlook the full picture.
Takeaways and QSRs: They often rely on large amounts of single-use packaging.
Multi-Site Groups: They face challenges with aggregation and data, complicating compliance.

Why Pubs and Bars Are Concerned About Glass Costs

Pubs and bars have raised concerns about glass costs. The industry argues that drinks packaging supplied to the on-trade goes into commercial waste, which venues already pay to collect. Yet, producers still pay EPR fees as if it were household waste. Essentially, the same glass is being paid for twice.

In March 2025, UKHospitality and operators such as Stonegate, Punch Pubs, Fuller's, and St Austell Brewery wrote to Defra, requesting that hospitality packaging be exempt from these fees.

The British Beer and Pub Association estimates that the cost of this could be between 5p to 7p per bottle, while MPs have suggested it could be around 15p for wine bottles.

The government's own analysis, cited during debates, indicates that 85% of EPR costs fall on the end user. According to UKHospitality's guide, a small venue could face costs of about £350 a year, while a medium venue might see £750, and larger pubs could be looking at around £2,000.

What Should You Do About It?

Here are a couple of steps worth considering this year:

Review Your Packaging Mix: Easier-to-recycle packaging often comes with lower EPR fees. This is not just an environmental concern; it’s also a financial one.
Monitor Your Packaging Costs and Usage: Keep an eye on this inflationary cost, as it can be mitigated with careful planning.

As with any cost line, it’s crucial to stay vigilant!

The Future of EPR and Its Implications

As we move forward, the implications of EPR will likely evolve. The regulations may become stricter, and the costs may increase. Therefore, it’s essential to stay informed about any changes in legislation.

Strategies for Compliance and Cost Management

To navigate the complexities of EPR, consider implementing the following strategies:

Educate Your Team: Ensure that your staff understands the importance of compliance and how it affects the business.
Engage with Suppliers: Work closely with your suppliers to understand their EPR obligations and how they impact your costs.
Invest in Sustainable Practices: Consider investing in sustainable packaging solutions. Not only can this reduce EPR fees, but it can also enhance your brand image.

The Role of Technology in EPR Management

Utilising technology can significantly ease the burden of EPR compliance. There are various software solutions available that can help you track your packaging usage and costs. These tools can provide valuable insights, enabling you to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding EPR is vital for your business. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about protecting your investments and ensuring strategic growth. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate the challenges of EPR effectively.

Remember, the phrase "Monty wants to be the trusted virtual finance department for hospitality and retail businesses" encapsulates the essence of what you should aim for in your financial strategy. Embrace the changes, adapt your practices, and you’ll be well on your way to thriving in this evolving landscape.