Armstrong Watson acquires Haines Watts Glasgow office

Accountants, business and financial advisers Armstrong Watson have acquired Haines Watts’ Glasgow office as part of their plans to expand the business across Scotland and the North of England.

With 17 offices already throughout the north of England and Scotland, Armstrong Watson said the the merger, which took effect on 1 February, strengthens the firm’s position in the city and is in line with its strategic aim to “become the go-to firm for family and owner-managed businesses in the North of England and Scotland”.

The Glasgow office will offer accounting, audit, tax, corporate finance, insolvency, forensic and financial planning services and will involve the amalgamation of the existing Armstrong Watson Glasgow branch from their Queen Street base into the new Blythswood Square office.

As a result of the acquisition, Richard Gibson, Ian Durie and Jim Lockhart all join Armstrong Watson as Partners.

Richard Gibson - heads the office as the Lead Partner for Glasgow and continues as an audit partner within the audit & assurance service line.

Ian Durie - joins the Corporate Finance team becoming the corporate finance partner for Scotland.

Jim Lockhart, a Chartered Accountant and tax adviser, joins as an accounting partner.

Armstrong Watson chief executive Paul Dickson, said: “The acquisition of the Glasgow office with Richard, Jim, Ian and the wider team joining Armstrong Watson provides us with a strong platform for growing an exciting and dynamic business in the city, and combines two firms of similar culture, with complementary practice strengths and sector expertise.

“Our Glasgow capability has always been an important focus in our expansion plans. This deal is a culmination of continued growth, both organic and through acquisition, cementing our position both in the central belt and across Scotland and the North of England as the ‘go to’ firm for family and owner managed businesses. I am really excited for the team in Glasgow under the leadership of Richard, Jim and Ian to build a strong and dynamic proposition that will see Armstrong Watson help business owners in Scotland run more successful and profitable businesses.”

Glasgow lead office partner, Richard Gibson, added: “Joining Armstrong Watson is a fantastic opportunity for both our clients and the Glasgow team. Not only do our skills, resources and culture complement each other, but having an increasing range of specialists and advisers will ensure that we continue to offer businesses the tailored, proactive support and advice essential for profit and growth.”