Redditch-headquartered Hayward Wright Accountancy Group has increased its regional presence with the acquisition of Solihull-based Bushell Smith Harman.

Following an undisclosed deal, Bushell Smith Harman will operate under the Hayward Wright brand with owner Richard Harman continuing to provide consultancy to the business, working closely with Hayward Wright Group’s managing director, Alistair Hayward-Wright and client manager, Danielle Campbell.

Respected for its taxation and business advice, Bushell Smith Harman was formed in the 1960s and over the past 50 years has built a wide client base of businesses and individuals across the West Midlands. As part of the deal it will remain at the company’s base in Warwick Road, Olton.

Mr Hayward-Wright, who formed the accountancy group in 2007, said the deal signalled the first stage of the firm’s acquisition plans for the next 12 months as he looks to expand the company’s 13-strong team and add more branches to its already-established offices in Redditch and Worcester.

He said: “Led by Richard, Bushell Smith Harman has an exceptional reputation across the region and is a trusted advisor for hundreds of people and businesses. They share our culture and values and we feel the firm is an excellent fit as we expand our services deeper into the West Midlands.

“The deal gives a fantastic foundation on which to grow our team and presence in and around Solihull and is the first of a number of acquisitions we are looking to seal this year. As our client base spreads we are also looking to expand further from our Redditch headquarters and our successful Worcester office so moving into the Solihull area is a perfect move at the perfect time.”

• Richard Harman added: “We have known of Alistair and the team for several years and always been aware of their first-rate credentials in a variety of areas such as tax planning, management accounts and general business advice.
• “The deal will be seamless for our clients as it will see them continuing to benefit from the personal service we know they like and have valued over many years. Being part of Hayward Wright will also allow us to offer a far greater range of specialisms, new expertise and insight.”
• Mr Hayward-Wright added that Bushell Smith Harman’s two employees would also remain in the business and new jobs could be added before the end of this year.

The acquisition comes 18 months after Mr Hayward-Wright, a regular commentator on tax and finance-related matters, led a £180,000 move to firm’s new headquarters in Redditch.

Hayward Wright offers business advice, management accounts and accountancy support for clients across the region.

See www.haywardwright.co.uk for more information or call 01527 69321.