Francis Clark announces merger

Francis Clark, the largest independent firm of Chartered Accountants in the South West, today announced a merger with Princecroft Willis, a leading Accountancy Practice in Dorset and Hampshire.

The merger will take place on 1 April 2016.

The newly merged firm will have a combined revenue of £38 million and a team of more than 580 people across nine offices, consolidating Francis Clark’s position as a leading accountancy and advisory firm in the South West.

Once completed, the merged firm will retain the name Francis Clark.

Commenting on the merger, Managing Partner Elect Andrew Richards said: “We are extremely proud of the reputation we have developed in the South West.

"The merger with Princecroft Willis will broaden our geographical reach into Dorset and Hampshire and strengthen the outstanding services we will continue to offer all our clients, leading to opportunities for all areas of the business through our sector expertise.”

Mark Johns, Managing Director, Princecroft Willis added: “I am delighted that we are announcing the merger with Francis Clark today.

"We have a strong reputation in the marine, engineering, manufacturing, professional services and family business sectors and look forward to bringing Francis Clark’s expertise in corporate finance and financial planning into Dorset and Hampshire.

"I have no doubt that our clients will benefit from the exceptional talents of Francis Clark’s experienced team.”

Since the firm was founded in 1919 by Francis S Clark, the firm has expanded from one partner with an assistant to 49 partners and over 390 staff with seven offices in the South West.

Through this merger, Francis Clark will continue to develop its areas of expertise with a particular emphasis on the family business market in the region.