Members From Over 50 Countries Join Russell Bedford’s EMEA Meeting

Professor Dr Klaus-Peter Hillebrand, CEO of DOMUS AG, Russell Bedford’s member firm in Berlin, and EMEA director of the Russell Bedford International board, opened this year’s Russell Bedford EMEA Regional Meeting, where over 50 countries were represented.

Speaking about how member firms have learned to adapt to a new way of working with much success, Klaus-Peter said: "The changes will have a long-term effect. Employees have realised the benefits of more flexible working situations and employers have realised the cost benefit of lower office costs. But we have realised that, despite our success in adapting, the need to come together has not faded.”

In his introduction to our first speaker, Jas Dhillon, VAT Director at London member firm, Lubbock Fine, Klaus-Peter considered the immense impact that Brexit would have on people, customs, and commercial law; an impact that will affect generations to come.

In this first session of the meeting, Jas Dhillon considered VAT after Brexit - implications for UK-EU trade. A highly comprehensive presentation, Jas summarised the impacts of Brexit on all areas of law and policy, the infamous Christmas Eve 2020 Brexit Deal and the impact on supplies of goods and services that have caused businesses unsurmountable challenges since January 2021.

Jas discussed the ‘so called’ free trade agreement and its many flaws, offering some key action points that businesses might need to consider, including mapping out supply chains to assess where they may be simplified or changed, and considering VAT registration in an EU country.

Up next was a discussion on Growth through acquisition: practical considerations, led by Ian Fletcher, professional speaker at 2020 Innovation Group, a training and solutions provider for progressive accountants and tax professionals. Ian was joined by Mark Eden, director at Jerroms, Russell Bedford’s UK West Midlands member firm, for a conversation on the factors that businesses need to consider when making acquisition agreements.

Mark stressed the importance of chemistry when deciding whether to proceed with an acquisition. He said: "Culture is everything; it’s important that the business is a good fit, otherwise you’ll undoubtedly run into problems.”

He added: "Being crystal clear on the aim of the transaction and what each side needs to gain from the transaction is imperative for a successful acquisition and ensuring that each side achieves what they’re looking for.”