Takeover equals growth for accountancy company

An accounting and business advisory group has expanded with a takeover.

Ascendis Group has bought E M Accountancy.

Bosses say the move marks “another important milestone in the firm’s growth”, adding it strengthens ambitions to double group fee income to £6 million over the next three years. 

They add “existing arrangements for E M Accountancy clients will remain unchanged” following the deal.

Wilmslow-headquartered Ascendis Group’s services include audit, accounts, business, tax and private client advisory support across a number of sectors, with Altrincham-based E M Accountancy known for working with optician practices.

Richard Fleming, founder and managing director of 40-staff Ascendis Group, which operates from Wilmslow’s Sandfield House, said: “E M Accountancy has built a strong reputation for serving healthcare professionals in the optical sector, alongside a diverse portfolio of owner-managed businesses.

“Its values, culture and approach to client service make this a natural fit.

“We have a number of potential acquisitions under discussion, alongside our continued focus on organic growth.”

Paul Emmerson, who founded E M Accountancy alongside Jayne Mullock in 2017, said the deal represents an “exciting step” for the business and its clients.

He added: “We have always been passionate about providing practical advice, responsive support and a personal service.

“Becoming part of Ascendis allows us to build on those foundations, while giving our clients access to additional expertise and resources.”

Ascendis Group was supported on the deal by Liverpool and Manchester-based law firm Bermans.

Robin Hastings, corporate partner in the legal operator’s Manchester base, led an advisory team, with Stephen Jarman, of Arch.Law – whose office also network includes a Manchester site – working for E M Accountancy.

Robin added: “E M Accountancy joining forces with Ascendis is a strong fit, with its expertise in the healthcare sector complementing a range of services already provided by the Ascendis team.”

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