Case studies
Case study: Securing a sustainable HMRC arrangement for a seasonal events business
Background:
- Seasonal events business hit by a run of external shocks
- Rising employment, energy and compliance costs added further strain
- A weaker peak season left a significant HMRC liability and cash flow shortfall
The company's difficulties stemmed from compounding external pressures rather than poor underlying performance. Operating in the entertainment sector, it was among the first to close and last to reopen during the pandemic. Trading recovered afterwards through seasonal events, prompting expansion, but the cost-of-living crisis then suppressed consumer spending, leading to losses and renewed cash flow strain.
With a business model built around a strong peak season funding the rest of the year, a weaker FY26 season left the company facing a significant cash shortfall and mounting tax arrears.
Our approach:
Introduced by the client's accountant, Leonard Curtis engaged quickly to understand the full financial picture and the scale of the HMRC liability involved.
As the case progressed, it was moved to a more senior and enforceable team within HMRC, one typically only able to offer arrangements of up to 24 months. Recognising that a plan of this length would not be sustainable for the business, the creditability of Leonard Curtis enabled the business advisory team to successfully negotiate and agree realistic terms.
Through clear, proactive communication with HMRC and a well-evidenced case for affordability, a Time to Pay arrangement was secured covering the full £310,000 liability and structured over 77 months, running through to November 2032. From initial introduction to completion, the case was resolved within six weeks, providing the business with fast and much needed certainty.
The outcome protected seven jobs and gave the directors the breathing space needed to stabilise cash flow and continue trading through the off-season, without the immediate threat of enforcement action.
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Leonard Curtis is a trading style of Reach Commercial Finance Limited, registered at Riverside House, Irwell Street, Manchester, M3 5EN. Company Register number is 09056450. Reach Commercial Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN: 753686. Reach Commercial Finance Limited is an authorised credit broker and not a lender. We work with an unrestricted number of lenders to find a potentially suitable arrangement for your consideration. ICO registration ZA069234 and you can check via www.ico.org.uk. We will receive commission from lenders. Different lenders pay different amounts depending on different commission models. For transparency we work with the following commission models: fixed fee, fixed rate of commission, percentage of the amount you borrow and rate for risk (this is based on the risk profile of the business). Further details of the commission model, calculation and amount will be disclosed to you throughout your customer journey. Privacy notice.
Leonard Curtis Legal Limited is a limited company, registered in England and Wales with registered number 09820186. Registered office: Riverside House, Irwell Street, Manchester M3 5EN. Leonard Curtis Legal Limited is registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority with number 626004.