TaxAssist National Conference 2026 brings network together to drive growth and innovation

The annual National Conference brought together franchisees and their teams from across the UK, alongside sponsors, technology partners and other professional organisations supporting the network.

With a programme spanning strategic, technical and practical topics, the event provided an opportunity for delegates to explore the issues shaping the accountancy profession while sharing experiences and ideas with colleagues from across the network.

The speaker programme included entrepreneur, best-selling author and business adviser James Ashford, who shared his experience of building and scaling successful businesses within the accounting industry.

Rebecca Benneyworth MBE provided an in-depth tax update, while Dan Tudorana-Clark, Managing Director of HelloAi, explored the practical application of artificial intelligence and digital technology within accountancy practices, including opportunities to improve efficiency and enhance client value.

A programme of interactive workshops complemented the keynote sessions, covering taxation, cloud technology, practice management, recruitment, insolvency awareness, artificial intelligence and opportunities created by the newly launched TaxAssist Plus proposition.

The conference also featured a busy exhibition area where sponsors and exhibitors showcased products and services tailored to the network’s practices. Throughout the day, delegates enjoyed numerous opportunities to network, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships with fellow franchisees and business partners. 

James Mattam, Group Director of Franchising, said: "Our National Conference continues to be one of the most important events in the TaxAssist calendar, and this year's event was a tremendous success. The quality of the speakers, workshops and exhibitors provided real value for our franchisees, giving them practical ideas and inspiration to take back to their businesses.

"What was particularly rewarding was seeing so many franchisees and their teams together in one place. The strength of the TaxAssist network has always been built on collaboration, shared experiences and mutual support, and the conference provided a fantastic opportunity for everyone to reconnect, share ideas and celebrate our collective achievements. The positive energy throughout the day was exceptional, and we're excited to see the impact of the insights gained as our franchisees continue to grow and develop their practices."

The value of the network’s collaborative approach was reflected in feedback from attendees.

Enfield based franchisee, Shayo Badejo said, “One of the things I enjoy most about the TaxAssist National Conference isn’t just the presentations. It’s the conversations between them. Listening to how other practices are solving challenges, embracing new technology and finding better ways to support their clients always gives me something to take back to Enfield. There’s always something new to learn in this profession. I’m looking forward to putting some of those ideas into practice.”

Jamie-Leigh Heyda, TaxAssist Barnstaple, commented, “The conference wasn't just about inspirational talks, it was packed with conversations with banks, lenders, software providers, insolvency practitioners and other professionals, all sharing ideas and expertise.”

Haywards Heath based TaxAssist Accountant, Alex Mathew, said, “It was great to hear about the latest AI updates and the delivery pipeline. To hear it covered in such detail is reassuring and I have to say, TaxAssist has absolutely nailed the process with the right tech partners. As a reputable brand, TaxAssist has built valuable partnerships across the compliance, financial, IT and business sectors. As an individual practice, developing these kinds of partnerships independently and cost effectively would be incredibly difficult, if not impossible.

“The conference itself was exceptionally well organised the TaxAssist Accountants team always raises the bar with engaging sessions, insightful workshops and most importantly, plenty of time between sessions to network with fellow franchisees. We have an amazing community of franchisees who are always willing to share knowledge, ideas, experiences and best practices. The value of those conversations is immeasurable.”

Bukky Shonola, TaxAssist Letchworth, Radlett and St Albans, said “The TaxAssist Accountants National Conference remains a key annual event for the network, supporting franchisees with the knowledge, connections and resources they need to build successful and thriving practices.”

The formal programme was followed by exclusive access to the British Motor Museum and an evening drinks reception, giving delegates further opportunities to network and celebrate the achievements of the network.

The 2026 National Conference demonstrated the breadth of support available across the TaxAssist network, bringing together technical expertise, technology, strategic development and peer-to-peer collaboration in a single event.

July 2026