Cowgills expands into Lancashire following Haleys acquisition

Accountancy firm Cowgills has established a base in Lancashire following its merger with Preston based Haleys Business Advisers. 

Announcing the merger the firm said it has had eyes on Lancashire as part of its growth strategy for some time.

Sixteen people employed by from Haleys will transfer to Cowgills, expanding the company’s team to about 300 colleagues across its north west bases, which also include locations in Bolton, Manchester, Liverpool, Stockport and Wigan.

Cowgills joined Sumer Group in early 2024.

Paul Stringer, managing partner at Cowgills, said: “Lancashire has been a key part of our growth plans for some time, so establishing a permanent presence in Preston is an important step for Cowgills.

“Haleys has built a strong business and an excellent reputation across the region. They understand the needs of owner managed businesses and have developed the kind of long standing client relationships that are very much aligned with the way we work at Cowgills.

“Welcoming Haleys to Cowgills gives us an established base from which we can continue to grow across Lancashire, while giving Haleys clients access to the wider expertise and specialist services available across Cowgills and Sumer Group.

“We are very pleased to welcome the team to Cowgills and look forward to building on the strong business they have created.”

Tim Haley, managing director at Haleys Business Advisers, said: “Joining Cowgills represents an exciting next chapter for Haleys, our team and our clients.

“We wanted to become part of a firm that understood the importance of maintaining strong local relationships while giving our clients access to additional expertise as their businesses grow, and providing opportunities for our colleagues.

“Cowgills shares that approach and, importantly, has a strong understanding of the north west region. Becoming part of the wider Cowgills and Sumer Group gives us the opportunity to offer even more to our clients while continuing to provide the personal service they have come to expect from Haleys.”