Farmers put roots down for the future

A FIFTH generation family farming business in Staffordshire is looking to the future after its incorporation into a limited company.

Dudley law firm Hawkins Hatton advised father and son partnership Roy and Rod Bartlett on the reorganisation of R&RW Bartlett which produces parsnips, turnips and other root vegetables on more than 600 acres of prime farmland near Lichfield.

The company, which was established in the 1950s, provides freshly harvested produce under its Skipper brand to food service outlets, wholesalers and supermarket chains throughout the Midlands, nationally and Europe.

The change from partnership status to a limited company is designed to bring about a number of tax benefits for the company and its directors and create a robust business structure for the future.

Commenting on the incorporation, Rod Bartlett said: “We have a significant investment programme and are constantly updating machinery to take advantage of technological advancements, so the move to limited company status means we are well placed to continue growing the business in the future.”

Colin Rodrigues from Hawkins Hatton, said:   “This business is a prime example of farmers who have recognised the potential in their farm as being a sound commercial venture and so by treating it with care and reverence they have created a business model which will stand the test of time”

Steve Ward from the Michael Duffy Partnership, based in Birmingham, acted as the accountants for Mr Bartlett.

Pictured are Rod Bartlett (front left), Steve Ward of the Michael Duffy Partnership (second left), Ruth Coleridge of Hawkins Hatton, Roy Bartlett (second right), and Colin Rodrigues, corporate partner, Hawkins Hatton.