EQ, part of Sumer Group, the fastest-growing mid-market accountancy practice in Scotland, today announced a merger with Innes & Partners, a firm serving the Inverness and Livingston area.
This merger represents a strategic priority for EQ to extend into the North of Scotland.
The 7% increase in headcount gives the firm further opportunity to evolve and strengthen their position as Scotland’s SME Champions.
By combining expertise, knowledge and resources, the team has grown from 290 to 310 talented colleagues. A significant increase from 140, when EQ joined Sumer Group in 2024.
Innes & Partners has built a strong reputation as firm of accountants and business advisers dedicated to providing professional services to a wide range of individuals, business owners and non-profit organisations including social enterprises, charitable trusts and charities.
The firm’s team of 20 professionals known for their commitment to client service excellence and deep regional expertise will join Sumer Group’s collaboration of renowned regional accounting practices, of over 3,000 colleagues across more than 70+ offices UK wide.
Craig Nicol, CEO at EQ said, “Innes & Partners excellent reputation and strong client relationships in Inverness and Livingston perfectly complement our mission to champion SMEs throughout the UK. This merger represents another significant step in our ambitious growth strategy and we welcome them on board enthusiastically.”
Jonathan Innes, Director at Innes & Partners, who will continue to play a key role as a Partner in the Inverness team, commented, “Joining EQ, and the Sumer Group, marks an exciting new chapter for our firm. Our clients will benefit from enhanced service capabilities while maintaining the personal relationships and local knowledge they value. We’re proud to join an organisation that shares our commitment to supporting SME businesses and the communities they serve, alongside continuing to support all the not-for-profit work that we currently do and more.”
The firm will continue to operate from its current locations in Inverness and Livingston, ensuring continuity for clients while offering expanded capabilities and national resources.
Clients of Innes & Partners will benefit from Sumer Group’s comprehensive suite of professional services, including audit, tax, advisory, and business support services, while maintaining their established relationships with the local team they trust.
For more information visit www.eqaccountants.co.uk