Case Study – Bondstones ‘Unlocking Potential’

At Old Mill, we’re passionate about helping our clients unlock their full potential. This commitment is exemplified in our partnership with Bondstones, a South West-based property consultancy specialising in sustainable rural development.

Under the leadership of Managing Director Ian Firth, Bondstones has made a name for itself by creating value from underused and redundant rural buildings. Their work breathes new life into these wasting assets, supporting rural landowners in diversifying and enhancing their property portfolios.

Ian recognised that to elevate Bondstones to the next level, he needed a strategic partner who shared his ethos of exceeding expectations and delivering more than just the basics. Having connected with one of our directors at the BiiG business networking group (Ilminster), Ian learned about our Business Success Programme — a service designed to provide monthly strategic advice, accountability, and support tailored to ambitious businesses.

“From our initial conversations, it was clear that Old Mill understood the importance of unlocking hidden potential,” Ian says. “Just as we transform underutilised properties into valuable assets, Old Mill helps businesses realise their financial and strategic capabilities.”

Intrigued by the alignment of values, Ian and the Bondstones team initially engaged OM on a six-month trial of the programme. The regular meetings with our dedicated advisers focused on strategic planning, growth opportunities, and organisational development—far beyond traditional accounting services.  That initial trial has now extended to an ongoing working relationship between the firms.

“The monthly sessions were a game-changer for us,” Ian reflects. “Old Mill didn’t just look at our finances; they helped us map out a clear path for sustainable growth. Their insights allowed us to focus on what we do best, confident that our strategic direction is sound.”

Seeing the tangible benefits, in addition to the Success Programme Bondstones have decided to consolidate all of Bondstones’ compliance work with our Small Business team. This move has streamlined their operations and ensures cohesive support across all aspects of the business.

“Transferring our compliance work to Old Mill was a natural step,” notes Ian. “Their proactive approach and genuine interest in our success made them an integral part of our team. Together, we’re transforming potential into prosperity.”

With our support, Bondstones is expanding, they’ve hired new staff, refined business processes, and enhanced client management systems.  With projected annual growth of ~34% since starting the programme, the Old Mill service provision has enabled them to concentrate on delivering exceptional consultancy services, helping rural landowners unlock the value in their properties.

For us at Old Mill, working with Bondstones highlights the impact of true collaboration. By aligning our services with their ambitions, we’ve not only helped them achieve their goals but also demonstrated how the Business Success Programme can drive real measurable results.

“Our partnership with Bondstones is a testament to what can be achieved when we look beyond traditional roles,” says George Gillman (Old Mill). “Just as they see the hidden value in property, we see the untapped potential in our clients’ businesses.”

The positive development of Bondstones’ business is a shared victory, and it opens doors for us to think creatively about how we can support other clients. Many of our clients may have underutilised property assets ripe for transformation. By introducing them to specialists like Bondstones, we can offer them opportunities to enhance their assets, much like we’ve helped Bondstones enhance their business.

As we continue to support businesses in realising their potential, think about your clients. Do they have underused property assets? Could they benefit from the kind of expertise Bondstones offers?

By connecting them with specialists who share our commitment to exceptional service, we can help our clients unlock new opportunities and strengthen our relationships with them.

If you’re interested in learning more about how our Business Success Programme can make a difference—or how partnering with firms like Bondstones can benefit your clients—let’s start a conversation by clicking here…