Merger fuels accountants’ expansion

Haines Watts South West | Business Action | North Devon business news
Haines Watts South West (HWSW) merges with Sally Reed Limited: (from left) Fiona Davey, Emma Coles, Henry Cooper, Sally Reed, Vince Edwards, Alice Ricketts and Caroline Hann

Expanding chartered accountants Haines Watts South West (HWSW) has announced a merger with Sally Reed Limited, an accountancy practice with offices in Launceston and Okehampton. The merger is part of the firm’s expansion plans in line with its mid to long-term marketing strategy. HWSW now employs some 50 staff across five offices in Devon and Cornwall, including Bideford and Barnstaple. The firm specialises in owner-managed businesses and the farming sector.

HWSW’s expansion has included the acquisition of two long-established companies, Nevill Hovey in Launceston and M. R. Stowell Accountants Ltd of Barnstaple in 2016. The recent merger with Sally Reed now adds a further two offices for HWSW in Launceston and Okehampton.

Sally Reed established her practice in 2000 from her own home, and started bookkeeping while raising a family. The practice has grown considerably with the opening of offices in Launceston and Okehampton, building a team of nine employees. Well known, and highly respected in the local area, Sally Reed specialises in small, family owner-managed businesses and companies, covering a diverse portfolio of sectors.

Following the merger, all members of staff at Sally Reed Ltd., including three employees currently on maternity leave, have been retained. In her new role as equity partner of HWSW, Sally and her dedicated team will continue to look after their existing clients so there is a seamless continuity of service, as well as looking to meet potential new clients.

Sally Reed, equity partner – Haines Watts South West, said: “Our clients have grown in size and complexity over the years we have worked together. It seemed the right time, therefore, to consider joining with a larger firm, who can assist us in expanding the range of services we can provide, and the resources to expand our client base. Haines Watts is well established, with an excellent reputation in the marketplace and a strong brand, and I particularly like the firm’s regional focus. As part of a national group, Haines Watts can access specialist services if required, and we can retain local knowledge and expertise dealing with clients who have specific needs based in the South West.

“I have lived and worked in Cornwall and Devon for nearly 30 years, and I would like to continue helping my clients for many years to come, with the support that Haines Watts can now provide.”

Vince Edwards, managing partner – Haines Watts South West comments: “When we opened our first Cornwall office in Launceston 15 months ago, we were advised by a number of respected professionals that Sally’s business was an outstanding practice. When we heard she was looking to expand, we didn’t hesitate to get in touch, and we are thrilled to welcome Sally and her loyal team on board. I have also been delighted over the last year, to renew contact with many of my clients and associates in Launceston, and across the county, and am very much looking forward to developing this further with the latest expansion.”