After joining Sumer at the end of 2023 and announcing our objectives to treble turnover over the next five years, we’re pleased to announce as part of the first phase of our strategic expansion, the merger of EQ with Douglas Home & Co.
“From our first conversations, it was immediately evident our working styles and cultures aligned, especially a commitment to delivering first class client services. We will come together as one team, one EQ sharing best practices and creating opportunities for our clients, our people, and our firm,” commented Craig Nicol, CEO. And with these parallels between our business, culture, and client base, we are excited about the benefits this shared wealth of knowledge and skills will bring.
Douglas Home & Co. has established a strong presence over the past 40 years. A total of 80 staff across southern Scotland and Northern England with offices in Edinburgh, East Lothian, Alnwick, the Borders, and Penrith, deliver exceptional accountancy support to a wide range of clients. With a strong agricultural focus, mirroring our own roster, there are clear synergies between the two firms. Douglas Home & Co. will rebrand as EQ, growing our footprint regionally to a combined 10 locations across Scotland and into Northern England, and an even stronger workforce of 210 dedicated professionals.
Darren Thomson, Managing Director at Douglas Home & Co. commented, “We’re incredibly motivated about the journey ahead, knowing that our shared dedication to service excellence and putting clients first will ensure a smooth transition. This collaboration isn’t just about growth; it’s about ensuring our clients continue to receive exceptional service without any disruptions while also paving the way for exciting new opportunities.” Darren Thomson, Sheryl Macaulay, Victoria Ivinson, Caroline Tice and Mike Johnston will all become partners of EQ Accountants and Sheryl and Victoria will also join the EQ Executive Board to drive future strategy.
We see this acquisition not only as an investment in our firm for growth but an investment in our people and our clients and will continue to shape our team to deliver value to SME businesses in Scotland.