A Cumbria-based accountancy has announced the acquisition of a Yorkshire-based practice in a move hoped to help it become the 'go to' for family and owner-managed businesses across the north.
Armstrong Watson said the merger with Leeds firm Volans, Leach & Schofield took effect on June 28, and comes at a time of "exceptional growth" for the Cumbrian firm, which is currently refurbishing its South Parade office in Leeds to accommodate the expansion, and is its second acquisition in four months.
It will see Volans, Leach & Schofield partners Martin Knaggs and Chris Smart, along with their team of staff, join Armstrong Watson to continue to provide tax and accounting services to existing clients.
Armstrong Watson CEO Paul Dickson said: “We’re delighted to announce the news of the acquisition and are really looking forward to working with Martin, Chris and their dedicated team, as well as looking after their clients.
“Our two firms are well-aligned, both priding ourselves on serving family businesses and individuals across the north, and our values go hand in hand.
“This acquisition further strengthens Armstrong Watson’s aim to be the go-to firm across the north of England and Scotland for family and owner-managed businesses.
"Despite the challenges of the pandemic, our ambition remains and we’re thrilled to welcome the Volans Leach & Schofield team into the growing Armstrong Watson family.”
The firm took over Hexham-based practice Patricia J Arnold and Co in March and in the last 12 months has relocated its west Cumbria base from Workington to Cockermouth to meet growing demand.
It also follows the firm’s expansion in Newcastle to larger premises - two years after opening an office in the city - and the acquisition of Eura Audit in Northallerton last February.
Volans Leach & Schofield was founded in the 1890s, and Mr Knaggs said: “We are delighted to complete our merger with Armstrong Watson and join a long-established firm which is rightly proud of its Northern roots.
“Having spent our entire working lives at Volans and developed strong client relationships, it was vital for Chris and I to merge with a firm that shares our ethos and partner-led approach.
“From the first discussions, the synergies between our client bases were apparent, and importantly, the people at Armstrong Watson have been open, approachable and a pleasure to deal with throughout the process.”
