EXETER ACCOUNTANTS EXPAND WITH ACQUISITION OF NORTH DEVON ACCOUNTANCY PRACTICE

John Edwards of Sully & Co Bideford shakes on the deal with Ben de Cruz, Senior Partner of Haines Watts Exeter

Specialising in the owner managed business sector, Chartered Accountants Haines Watts based in Southernhay, Exeter announces the acquisition of long established North Devon practice, Sully & Co of Bideford.  This latest expansion development is part of a mid-long term strategy to grow the services and expertise they can offer to a larger client base throughout the South West region which included taking on new partner Patrick Tigwell in March.

A national network with over 60 offices, each Haines Watts office operates independently offering a wide range of services tailored to the local market.  The 5 partner strong Exeter office primarily focuses on accountancy and taxation services to owner managed businesses and dealing with individual’s tax affairs, with the specialist Forensic accountancy team undertaking work throughout England and Wales. 

Ben de Cruz Senior Partner Haines Watts says:  “We are delighted to be joining forces with Sully & Co and it’s an indication of how the local Haines Watts team is going from strength to strength.  It will open a host of opportunities for our loyal client base, prospects and professional associates. Sully & Co Bideford was a natural choice as the ethos and values of the two practices go hand in hand.  They have a well earned reputation for giving excellent personal customer service.  They also specialise in the agricultural market which will help to expand the business as a whole into a wider arena.”

John Edwards the Managing Partner of Sully & Co Bideford will continue to manage the North Devon office for a further 5 years.  Established in 1983, John took over the helm in 1985 initially operating the business with just himself and his PA.  Since that time he has grown the company to 25 staff and a turnover of over £1m looking after more than 500 owner managed businesses from Minehead to Penzance.  These include corporate and professionals, small businesses, sole traders and an extensive portfolio of farmers.

The accountancy practice will trade as Haines Watts North Devon LLP.  Vince Edwards will become a newly appointed partner in that firm.  The consultancy practice will trade as Haines Watts Rural Business LLP and include Mike Feneley as a Partner.

John Edwards Managing Partner of Sully & Co Bideford says:  “I am looking forward to working under the well respected brand of Haines Watts.   In an ever growing and changing marketplace I recognise the need to offer my clients a broader range of services, expertise and knowledge whilst keeping a hands-on approach and a close and personal relationship. Haines Watts has the advantage of local knowledge coupled with the backup resources of a nationwide network which means that we can now cost effectively offer more sophisticated solutions to client’s issues and problems backed up with a brand they can trust.  ”