Looking back at my annual statements from recent years, there were enormous challenges in quick succession. In 2022 it is therefore encouraging to see so many innovative businesses thriving.

It seems the 'new normal' is characterised by the evolution businesses have undergone; with several new headwinds throughout the year, the adaptability and resilience developed during the pandemic became a real asset.

Now, as the year draws to a close, we at GS Verde Group find ourselves reflecting on the highlights of the last 12 months and looking ahead to our goals for 2023.

Expansion through new offices

The year began with significant expansion for GS Verde, as we took on a new lease at The Maltings, doubling capacity at our headquarters to accommodate for the growing team.

Building upon this, we then took on new space at The Generator building in Bristol, to meet the rising demand for the Group across the South West.

Seeing such rapid growth across several locations signified the progress of GS Verde's multidiscipline team and underpins the fast growth of the business across the UK and beyond.

In 2022 the overall headcount has grown to over 80-strong, with new hires and promotions in each of the Group's disciplines.

Experian Market IQ success

As a Group, we are well aware of our elevated dealmaking activity in 2022: it was therefore rewarding to see our efforts validated throughout the year in the Experian Market IQ rankings.

For three consecutive quarters, GS Verde outpaced competition from the legal and financial sectors to become the first and only firm to place first in both categories.

With an exceptional end to 2022, we are confident that the Group will achieve leading positions in the full year report expected at the start of next year.

These unique achievements are a testament to our distinct one team approach that combines law, finance tax and communications as one team.

Award wins

External recognition of our innovative multidiscipline structure also came from award wins and nominations. Being shortlisted in the Business Leader Awards, which showcases the South West's best companies, was a testament to how our profile in this region has developed.

Then, it was an honour to be named the Disruptor of the Year at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards for Wales.

This followed the proudly received award of the Director of the Year award at the Institute of Directors awards earlier in the year

These awards were a true reflection of the entire team, who strive to make GS Verde a success.

New chairman

In October, the Group announced that Gavin Johns would take on the role of Chairman of the Board, succeeding Peter Wright, who is stepping down after more than eight years in the role.

We are exceptionally grateful to Peter for his contributions and support, while being excited to welcome Gavin to GS Verde.

With an entrepreneurial career spanning three decades, Gavin's expertise in global mergers and acquisitions, fintech and business scale-up projects aligns with the Group's goals in this next phase of growth.

Growth in Ireland

A pivotal moment for the Group last year was the launch of GS Verde Ireland, as the opening of our Dublin office marked expansion into the EU market.

Following this, GS Verde is very close to completing a milestone acquisition in Ireland, furthering our footprint in the EU.

We look forward to how this acquisition will enhance the Group and bring significant benefits to our clients by providing access to a wider pool of buyers and markets.

Record-breaking year results

Each year we strive to build upon our achievements of the prior, and 2022 has been no exception.

The Group-wide developments this year have made it our best year to date: with over 50 deals completed at a combined value of £300m.

In summary:

Over the course of 2022, GS Verde Group has achieved several of the key milestones set in our ambitious growth plan.

These exciting developments now allow for further significant steps forward, developing our presence across Wales, England and Europe and investing in cutting-edge technology to strengthen the Group's deal pipeline and diversifying M&A opportunities.

On behalf of the team at GS Verde Group, we wish all our friends, clients and contacts well this holiday season, and a happy new year.

Nigel Greenaway, CEO, GS Verde Group