Armstrong Watson expands in the North East of the UK

Armstrong Watson has further strengthened its aim of becoming the ‘go-to’ firm for family and owner-managed businesses across the North having acquired the long-established Newcastle-based accountancy firm Joseph Miller.  
 
The merger, which took effect on Tuesday 3 January, sees Armstrong Watson welcoming the whole team from Joseph Miller, with 22 staff, including three partners, joining the growing accountancy and business advisory firm.  
 
Armstrong Watson will operate two locations in Newcastle - its existing office in Waterloo Street and Joseph Miller base in Milburn House, Dean Street - until it relocates to larger premises in the coming months.  
 
Joseph Miller Partner David Gold, who along with Chris Reah and Edith Chapman have become partners of Armstrong Watson, said: “The decision to join forces with another long-established, independent firm of accountants and business advisers has been carefully considered and bring positive benefits to our clients and our staff.  
 
“The merger allows our existing client relationships to continue, but with the benefit of increased staff resources and specialist teams within Armstrong Watson to help support our clients and continue our high level of service.”  
 
Armstrong Watson Managing Partner and CEO Paul Dickson said: “We’re delighted to welcome our new colleagues and clients from Joseph Miller to Armstrong Watson.
 
“Our values and ethos as a firm are like that of Joseph Miller. As part of Armstrong Watson, David Chris and Edith will continue to provide clients with tax and accountancy services of the highest standards and will also have access to other specialist services that could bring significant benefits to clients and their businesses.  
 
“Our Newcastle office has seen some rapid growth over recent years. With our new colleagues, we now have a full-service proposition in the city, with strong accounting, payroll and tax team coming over as a result of this acquisition, and an incredibly strong foundation to build on our ambitions to grow further in the North East.”
 
The Joseph Miller deal marks the sixth acquisition for Armstrong Watson in 18 months, with the latest mergers including Leeds-based Grants Chartered Accountants and long-standing Settle practice Haworths Chartered Accountants. Armstrong Watson first opened an office in Newcastle in October 2018 and this latest acquisition will be followed by a second move to larger offices.