Agriculture team helps farm to move with the times

Over recent years, many farms across the UK have looked to diversify in order to maximise opportunities and avoid an over reliance on agriculture, which at times can be vulnerable to volatile markets.

One such farm is Barleylands, a business controlled by the Philpot group of companies based in Essex and Suffolk, which is run by Peter Philpot and his three sons. Over the last 12 years, Hewitsons has advised the business during its rapid expansion and diversification.

Charles Hewitson, senior partner and head of Hewitsons’ Cambridge Agriculture and Rural Business team, has advised Peter, along with the firm’s corporate team, on several company purchases and reorganisations. These have ultimately led to each of Peter’s sons having their own independent businesses.

Hewitsons has also advised on the buying and selling of farms, as well as other land transactions including commercial leases, options and development opportunities.  In recent years the business has developed at Barleylands and includes a thriving craft shopping village, museum, education and farm centre, miniature railway and restaurant.

Charles said: “This is a go-ahead business which is always alert to pursuing good business opportunities and new methods of farming. The family originally made their money during and after the war when they supplied the army with milk powder. They are certainly not ones to ever stand still and that makes the Philpots an exciting client to work for.”