“Switching to Nordens was by far the best business decision I’ve ever made. Being able to properly understand my finances has enabled me to make better decisions, but more importantly, to justify those decisions and speak with conviction when managing my business. I couldn’t ask for more”
Alexandra Barker – Founder & Director at Folk
Background
Folk is a charming British café located just outside of Bury St Edmunds, providing a welcoming space for patrons to recharge and refuel. Known for its simple, quality menu, Folk prides itself on offering locally sourced artisan bread from Wooster’s and serving speciality coffee. Owned by Alexandra Barker – AKA as Ali, Folk has quickly established itself as a community hub, blending culinary delight with warm hospitality. However, behind the scenes, Ali found herself struggling to find the right financial guidance and support to help her business grow strategically.
The Challenge
Folk wanted to work with an accountant that was proactive and truly understood their business.
Since its inception in 2018, Folk had been working with the same accounting firm. Initially, Ali assumed the service she was receiving was standard. Over time, however, she realised that the accountants were not proactive, nor were they interested in truly understanding her business. They didn’t listen, weren’t aligned with her values, and never went beyond the bare minimum. Ali felt frustrated and disconnected, constantly hitting roadblocks when asking questions, and was made to feel as though she should already have all the answers. There was no strategic insight or dynamic approach to help Folk grow, which left Ali feeling unsupported.
Her previous accountants weren’t just unhelpful—they resisted collaboration, putting up barriers and creating an environment where Ali felt isolated, rather than empowered, in making business decisions. As Folk expanded, Ali knew she needed more than just basic compliance; she needed someone strategic who could offer forward-thinking solutions, understand her vision, and help execute a growth plan.
The Solution
Our dynamic, strategic approach was well-aligned to Folk's values
Through a personal connection, Ali was introduced to Mitch Hahn, CEO here at Nordens Chartered Accountants. Immediately, Ali was impressed by the progressive and unique approach Mitch and his team offered. After meeting with Mitch, she felt an immediate alignment between Folk’s values and Nordens’ dynamic, strategic approach.
Mitch introduced Ali to Joe Sword, Director & Head of Advisory, and the experience took a transformative turn. Ali quickly realised just how much more could be gained from a proactive, engaged, and transparent accounting partner. Unlike her previous experiences, Joe and the team at Nordens brought a wealth of knowledge to the table, offering strategic advisory services that extended well beyond the basics. The shift in service made Ali feel empowered and informed—key components that had been missing.
Nordens’ team, including Joe, Jane, Olga, and Evis, created a warm and open environment where Ali and her colleagues could ask any questions without feeling judged or confused. They not only explained the details but helped Ali understand the broader business implications, enabling her to make informed, confident decisions. There was no topic too small, no concern too trivial—Nordens made themselves readily available, fostering a true partnership based on trust and transparency.
The Results
We provided Folk with the tools necessary to grow sustainably with clarity
Partnering with Nordens proved to be a pivotal decision for Folk. The once-stagnant business processes were replaced with structured plans, clear action points, and measurable targets. Nordens held Ali accountable for hitting these goals, driving tangible growth and clarity across all areas of the business.
Ali’s experience went from feeling like she wasn’t getting any guidance, to a business that was fully empowered, informed, and proactive. She now speaks openly about her improved decision-making process and ability to justify and act on those decisions because she finally understands the financial landscape of her business.
Nordens’ strategic advisory and dynamic culture provided Folk with the tools necessary to grow sustainably, whether through implementing new payroll systems, improving day-to-day processes, or developing long-term business strategies. What’s more, Ali and her team felt personally supported by a group of experts who were always ready to help, whether things were going well or when challenges arose.
Ali’s overall feedback for Nordens is overwhelmingly positive, with no reservations. The change has left her not only better equipped to handle the financial intricacies of her business, but also feeling more confident and empowered in all aspects of running Folk.
Partnering with Nordens Chartered Accountants has been the best business decision for Ali and Folk café. Their forward-thinking, strategic approach to financial management has replaced frustration with clarity, offering Ali the support, guidance, and dynamic insights needed to truly grow her business. The open, collaborative culture at Nordens has empowered Ali to take control of her business finances with confidence, ensuring continued success and growth for Folk.
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