Today’s news in brief – 21/3/2025
Evelyn Partners has appointed Lachlan Dorrity as director, and David Ramsey and Katherina Zeal as assistant managers to expand its debt advisory practice. Dorrity, previously with Clearwater and Grant Thornton, brings over a decade of experience. Ramsey, formerly with Blick Rothenburg, and Zeal, from KPMG, will support mid-market transactions. This follows Fenton Burgin’s appointment in September 2024. Burgin expressed confidence in the trio’s expertise to meet growing client demand. Dorrity highlighted the firm’s entrepreneurial environment and commitment to supporting high-growth companies. Evelyn Partners plans further expansions in 2025 to strengthen its advisory offerings.
Old Mill has promoted Willem Puddy to partner in its Rural team. Puddy, who joined in 2018, has excelled in technical expertise and client relationships. A chartered accountant with a Business Management degree, he has played a key role in the team’s growth. Old Mill prioritizes promotions based on merit and impact. Puddy expressed gratitude, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind his success. Andrew Vickery, head of Rural, praised Puddy’s dedication and innovative contributions. As a partner, Puddy will continue driving the team’s success and providing valuable support to clients.
Scrutton Bland, part of the Sumer Group, has acquired Colchester-based accountancy firm Tile and Co. The acquisition integrates Tile and Co’s 11-member team into Scrutton Bland’s operations, ensuring a smooth transition. Founders Joff Tile and Julian Wyncoll will remain involved. The move enhances Scrutton Bland’s capacity to serve its growing client base across East Anglia. Tile emphasized the alignment of values between the firms, ensuring continued high-quality service. Managing partner Jason Fayers welcomed the acquisition as part of their regional growth strategy, reinforcing the firm’s presence in Colchester and beyond.
FTS Recovery has facilitated the sale of online fashion brand In The Style to Alps Sourcing Limited, preserving 87 jobs. Joint administrators Marco Piacquadio and Alan Coleman managed the pre-pack sale, which followed the brand’s financial struggles. Previously valued at £105m in 2021, the business faced rising costs and economic challenges, leading to insolvency. Baaj Capital, the former owner, supported the sale by rolling its facility into the purchasing entity. Piacquadio highlighted the importance of the deal in rescuing jobs and stabilizing operations. He expressed hope that the new ownership would restore profitability and strengthen stakeholder relationships.
