Simpson Wood

Services

Overview

Simpson Wood is one of Yorkshire’s most established accountancy and financial planning firms. Founded in 1880 and based in Huddersfield, with a second office in Leeds, the firm works with both businesses and individuals to help them make the most of their finances. With a long-standing reputation and loyal client base, Simpson Wood approached Paladin to lead a rebrand that would reflect their modern approach and future ambitions.

Challenge

Simpson Wood had retained the same logo since the 1980s. While the business had evolved, the brand no longer reflected the personality, professionalism, or value they brought to clients. They needed a visual identity and messaging framework that would better connect with their audience, highlight what made them different, and support long-term marketing efforts.

Solution

We began with a Deep Dive session to fully understand who Simpson Wood is, what they stand for, and what makes them valuable to clients. Rather than focusing solely on services, we shifted the emphasis to outcomes—what their financial guidance enables for real people.

This insight led to the development of the brand positioning ‘Financial Freedom.’ It became the cornerstone of the brand, reflecting a sense of clarity, confidence, and a life lived without the burden of financial stress. The visual language echoed this idea, using photography of people enjoying life—relaxed, in control, and supported.

One of Simpson Wood’s key strengths is their unique ability to support both business and personal finance needs under one roof. To reflect this, we created the ‘Synergy Device’—a simple but effective graphic that highlights the intersection of their services and the closeness of their client relationships.

Visually, we refreshed the brand’s colour palette, retaining familiar tones of blue and green but adjusting them to feel more modern and expressive. These colours now communicate a sense of stability, optimism, and forward movement.

The new identity was rolled out across every touchpoint: a new website, updated marketing brochures, social media graphics, building signage, and brand video content. Simpson Wood officially launched the rebrand at the John Smith’s Stadium, marking a proud moment for their team and clients alike.

Increase in Website Traffic

Nomination - Accountancy Brand of the Year

The Result

The rebrand has given Simpson Wood a clear, confident identity that aligns with who they are today and where they’re going next. It has provided a strong foundation for future marketing activity and has helped reposition the firm as a forward-thinking partner for both business and personal finance.

Conclusion

Rebranding a firm with over 140 years of history is no small task. But by focusing on real client outcomes and combining strategic insight with modern design, we helped Simpson Wood step into a new era—without losing the legacy that defines them.