OAKFIELD ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED

Executive Summary

Oakfield Asset Management Limited operates as a small niche quantity surveying firm within the UK construction consultancy sector, facing typical challenges of limited scale and tight liquidity. Recent financial results indicate a contraction in net assets and working capital, reflecting sector pressures such as construction market volatility and evolving technological demands. While its size allows for personalized service, building resilience and competitive capacity will require strategic financial and operational strengthening.

OAKFIELD ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED - Analysis Report

Company Number: 13798892

Analysis Date: 2025-07-29 17:15 UTC

1. Industry Classification
   Oakfield Asset Management Limited operates primarily within the "Quantity Surveying Activities" sector, classified under SIC code 74902. This sector typically involves providing cost consultancy, construction cost management, project management, and related advisory services to the construction industry. Key characteristics include reliance on professional expertise, project-based contract work, and sensitivity to construction market cycles and client investment trends.

2. Relative Performance
   As a small, private limited company incorporated in late 2021, Oakfield Asset Management Limited is at an early stage of its business lifecycle. Its financials for the year ending 31 March 2024 show modest total assets less current liabilities of £1,677 and shareholders’ funds at the same amount, a significant decline from the previous year’s £22,100. Current liabilities nearly match current assets (£44,244 vs £45,601), indicating very tight working capital with limited liquidity buffer. The company's cash balance dropped substantially from £50,948 to £27,979, while debtors increased, which could imply delayed payments from clients or increased credit terms. The firm's size and asset base are considerably below the thresholds for medium or large enterprises in the sector, aligning with typical small-scale quantity surveying firms that often start with limited resources and a small client base.

3. Sector Trends Impact
   The quantity surveying sector in the UK is influenced by several macroeconomic and industry-specific trends:

• Construction Sector Volatility: Rising construction costs and supply chain disruptions have tightened budgets and slowed project commencements, potentially reducing demand for quantity surveying services.
• Digital Transformation: Increasing adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and cost management software requires firms to invest in technology and skills, which can strain smaller companies financially.
• Sustainability and Regulations: Growing emphasis on sustainable building practices and regulatory compliance creates new advisory opportunities but also raises operational complexities.
• Post-Pandemic Recovery: The sector is in gradual recovery from COVID-19 related disruptions, though inflationary pressures on materials and labour persist, influencing project viability and consultancy fees.

These dynamics likely affect Oakfield’s ability to win contracts and maintain healthy cash flows, especially given its small scale.

4. Competitive Positioning
   Oakfield Asset Management Limited functions as a niche player within the quantity surveying services market, characterized by a single director and minimal staffing. Its competitive strengths could include personalized client service and flexibility due to its small size. However, financial indicators such as reduced net assets and tight liquidity raise concerns about scalability and resilience against market fluctuations. Compared to larger firms, Oakfield lacks the capital and resource base to invest heavily in technology or diversify its service offerings. Its reliance on director advances for funding suggests limited external financing access, which may constrain growth. In contrast, established competitors often benefit from broader client portfolios, stronger balance sheets, and economies of scale.

Summary
Oakfield Asset Management Limited is a small-scale, niche quantity surveying firm operating within a competitive and evolving UK construction consultancy sector. While it aligns with typical early-stage industry entrants in size and scope, recent financial contractions and tight liquidity highlight challenges in navigating sector volatility and market demands. Its position as a boutique provider offers certain client service advantages but may limit its competitive reach against larger, better-resourced firms.