Martin Aitken merges into Armstrong Watson

Armstrong Watson has strengthened its operation in the City of Glasgow by merging with Martin Aitken. The merger, which took place on 7 April, brings the Glasgow teams of Armstrong Watson and Martin Aitken together, and sees a total of 110 employees join Armstrong Watson, resulting in the combined team in Glasgow growing to over 150. The entire team at Martin Aitken have taken up their roles at Armstrong Watson, with all of the firm’s directors joining the business as partners. Armstrong Watson said the merged team in Glasgow will further strengthen its “client-focused” proposition for Armstrong Watson and Martin Aitken clients in the region, as well as providing enhanced career opportunities for employees at both firms. This merger follows a sustained period of growth for Armstrong Watson and marks the third merger for the firm in the past 12 months, with another Glasgow practice, Parkhill Mackie & Co, joining Armstrong Watson back in October, and the acquisition of West Cumbrian firm Gibbons at the end of April 2024. Ewen Dyer, managing director and lead partner at Martin Aitken, 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, said: “As one of the largest independent Accounting and Financial advisory firms in the UK, we are proud to announce this merger with Martin Aitken, a very well-respected firm in Glasgow, where we have always held the Partners and team in the highest regard. “The combined business allows us to better support our respective clients in Scotland with a robust professional services business, providing the necessary support that growing successful businesses need in the region. We have ambitious plans to continue to grow in Scotland, supporting our clients to achieve prosperity, a secure future, and peace of mind.” He added: “We are proud to be investing in Glasgow and supporting the growth of the economy in the region with our two firms coming together. This merger is a testament to our commitment to the region and our belief in its full potential, enhancing our combined client proposition and creating greater opportunities for both of our respective teams.”