Xerocon is always one of the biggest dates in the accounting technology calendar and this year’s event certainly didn’t disappoint!
Across two busy days, the Xenon Connect team caught up with existing partners, met plenty of new faces, explored the latest innovations and had some great conversations about where the profession is heading.
More than anything, Xerocon gives us the chance to listen. It’s where we hear first-hand what challenges firms are facing, what they are excited about and software is helping them work more efficiently.
Here are some of Gareth and Brian’s biggest takeaways from Xerocon 2026.
Gareth's Biggest Takeaways
1. Apps work best when they work together
One message that stood out to Gareth was that firms no longer want software that works in isolation. Accountants and bookkeepers are looking for connected solutions that integrate seamlessly into their existing workflows.
Rather than adding more standalone tools, firms want technology that communicates with software they already rely on, helping reduce duplication and create more efficient processes.
2. AI is creating curiosity - but also healthy scepticism
As expected, artificial intelligence (AI) was one of the biggest talking points across Xerocon.
The conversations Gareth had, highlighted that accountants and bookkeepers are incredibly forward- thinking and interested in how AI can support their firms. However, there's also growing skepticism around AI being presented as the answer to every problem.
Instead, firms are asking more practical questions:
– Where does AI genuinely save time?
– Where should people remain in control?
– How can AI improve client service without compromising quality?
At Xerocon, overall consensus encouraged taking a balanced approach rather than chasing the latest trend.
3. Firms want to maximise what they already have
Another noticeable shift was that firms are becoming much more focused on getting the most from the software they already use before investing in something new.
Rather than constantly adding more apps, they are looking to improve workflows, make better use of existing features and create more value from their current technology stack.
Xenon Connect Systemise
With this said, one of Gareth’s highlights was speaking with existing Xenon Connect partners about our recently launched Systemise module.
Time and time again, firms told us how much more in control they now feel after rolling it out across their practice.
The biggest benefit they shared wasn’t just improved organisation – it was giving firm owners and client managers greater confidence in their workload, deadlines, and overall visibility across the business.
Hearing those real-life success stories from our partners was on of the most rewarding parts of the event.
Brian's View from Xerocon
For Brian, Xerocon is all about the conversations.
Whether it was catching up with long-standing Xenon Connect partners or meeting firms that are discovering Xenon Connect for the first time, every conversation provided valuable insight into what firms are looking for.
1. Catching up with our existing partners
Brian said that it was fantastic to reconnect with accountants and bookkeepers who have been using Xenon Connect for a long time.
These conversations are always invaluable. Partners shared ideas for future features, suggested small improvement and told us how much they enjoy using Xenon Connect. Hearing several firms describe Xenon Connect as their favourite app was a real highlight.
It was also a great opportunity to meet newer partners in person. Many arrived with questions about features or workflows, and after having a few demonstrations often left having discovered Xenon Connect capabilities they hadn’t yet realised existed.
This is why Xerocon is a brilliant place to put faces to names and build stronger relationships beyond emails and zoom calls.
2. Meeting firms that are new to Xenon Connect
Another exciting part of Xerocon is being able to showcase Xenon Connect to firms that have not experienced it before.
Some visitors had never heard of Xenon Connect, while others had been recommended by colleagues or friends who were already using the platform. In fact, some were even brought over to our stand by partners who were keen to see Xenon Connect in action.
Seeing those first reactions is always rewarding, especially when firms realise how Xenon Connect can help streamline their bookkeeping processes, save money and even create new revenue opportunities through bookkeeping health checks.
3. Demonstrating Xenon Connect’s latest features
There was lots of interest in one of our newest features: the ability to connect to a prospect or new client using a secure email link.
Many firms explained that gaining access to a prospective client’s bookkeeping data can often be one of the biggest barriers when trying to demonstrate value.
This feature helps remove that barrier, making it much easier for firms to carry out bookkeeping health checks and confidently demonstrate the opportunities they can uncover.
What the Industry is Talking About
– They are looking for technology that helps them manage higher client volumes efficiently while continuing to deliver excellent service.
Beyond the Exhibition Hall
Of course, Xerocon isn’t all business.
Brian particularly enjoyed the incredible venue, the huge variety of food available and, of course, the famous slide!
The Xerocon party was another highlight for both Gareth and Brian. It’s always a fantastic opportunity to catch up with familiar faces in a more relaxed setting, enjoy some great food and continue conversations that started on the exhibition floor.
Lessons from Louis Theroux
Another amazing opportunity at Xerocon was the chance to hear an inspiring talk from Louis Theroux. Known for his curiosity and thoughtful interviewing style, his session offered valuable lessons that extended far beyond journalism.
Here are Gareth’s biggest takeaways from the talk:
“Sometimes the best way of getting insightful information from someone is simply to stop talking and allow them to expand on what they have already said” – Louis Theroux
– This was a powerful reminder that some of the best conversations come from listening rather than rushing to ask the next question.
Gareth’s second takeaway was that there is no substitute for genuine curiosity.
– Whether you’re an accountant, bookkeeper or software provider, asking better questions and remaining naturally curious helps you understand people more deeply and ultimately provide more value.
Thank You, Xerocon
A huge thank you to everyone who visited the Xenon Connect stand over the two days.
Whether you were an existing partner sharing your success stories, someone discovering Xenon Connect for the first time or simply stopped for a chat, we genuinely appreciate every conversation.
The feedback, ideas and relationships we build at events like Xerocon help shape the future of Xenon Connect, and we’re already looking forward to the next one!