Armstrong Watson acquires Gibbons Accountants

Armstrong Watson has acquired long-standing West Cumbrian practice Gibbons Accountants, Business and Financial Advisers for an undisclosed sum. The merger, which took effect on 29 April 2024, sees a total of 56 staff join the firm, marking a significant milestone in the history of the firm, which dates back to its founding in Carlisle in 1867 by James Watson. Armstrong Watson has always had a strong presence in West Cumbria and continues to hold a large market share, particularly in the Audit market. The merger with Gibbons boosts the service offerings for West Cumbrian clients and also provides enhanced career opportunities for colleagues at both firms. Armstrong Watson will move into Gibbons existing West Cumbria offices in Cockermouth, Maryport, Whitehaven and Workington. All offices will be represented under the Armstrong Watson Accountants, Business and Financial Advisers brand. This further extends the firm’s footprint and commitment across Cumbria and specifically, West Cumbria. Partners Russell Thwaites, Philip Holdsworth, Tony Hindmoor, Mark Stanger and Steven Kirkbride have all joined Armstrong Watson along with 52 colleagues and will continue to provide a full range of services to their existing clients. Thwaites said: “The decision to join forces with Armstrong Watson has been carefully considered and brings significant benefits to our clients and colleagues. We believe that clients will continue to receive the highest quality, personal service and for some it will give them the added benefit of being able to pull in the skills of a larger local and regional firm. The opportunities that exist at Armstrong Watson will benefit our clients and colleagues significantly.” Paul Dickson, Armstrong Watson managing partner and CEO, added: “As one of the largest independent Accounting and Financial advisory firms in the UK and certainly the North, we are proud to announce this merger with Gibbons a respected firm in West Cumbria where we have always held the Partners and team in the highest regard. The combined business allows us to better support the economy in West Cumbria with a robust professional services firm, providing the necessary support that growing successful businesses need in the region. “We have ambitious plans to continue to grow in Cumbria, supporting our clients to achieve prosperity, a secure future, and peace of mind. We are proud to be investing in the Cumbrian economy and supporting its growth in the region with our two firms coming together. This merger is a testament to our commitment to Cumbria and our belief in its full potential. Enhancing our combined client proposition and creating greater opportunities for both of our respective teams.” This deal follows eight acquisitions for Armstrong Watson in the last three years. It also takes the total number of Armstrong Watson’s regional offices to 19, spanning from Glasgow to Manchester, and colleagues to over 630.

Armstrong Watson acquires Gibbons Accountants

This deal follows eight acquisitions for Armstrong Watson in the last three years. It also takes the total number of Armstrong Watson’s regional offices to 19

Read Next

ICAEW invites research proposal for UK VAT reform

Bamburgh Capital hires four amid growth drive

HW Fisher strengthens senior team with three partner promotions

BHP appoints digital finance partner

UK economy exits recession

ICAEW invites research proposal for UK VAT reform

Bamburgh Capital hires four amid growth drive

HW Fisher strengthens senior team with three partner promotions

BHP appoints digital finance partner

UK economy exits recession

FRC welcomes new chair of Technical Advisory Committee

ICAEW invites research proposal for UK VAT reform

FRP acquires Hilton-Baird Group

UHY Hacker Young advises Centrality on sale to Intercity

Interpath appointed joint administrators of Presteigne Broadcast Hire

Read Next

ICAEW invites research proposal for UK VAT reform

Bamburgh Capital hires four amid growth drive

HW Fisher strengthens senior team with three partner promotions

BHP appoints digital finance partner

UK economy exits recession

Related Articles

FRC welcomes new chair of Technical Advisory Committee

ICAEW invites research proposal for UK VAT reform

FRP acquires Hilton-Baird Group

UHY Hacker Young advises Centrality on sale to Intercity

Interpath appointed joint administrators of Presteigne Broadcast Hire