Mid-market accountancy practice EQ, part of Sumer Group, has merged with Innes & Partners to expand into the North of Scotland.

EQ will grow its team by 7%, from 290 to 310 staff, as part of the merger as it aims to strengthen its position in Scotland.

Innes & Partners, which has offices in Inverness and Livingston, built a reputation advising  individuals, business owners and non-profit organisations including social enterprises, charitable trusts and charities.   

The firm’s team of 20 staff will join Sumer Group’s regional accounting network, which has more than 3,000 colleagues across more than 70 offices in the UK.

Craig Nicol, chief executive 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, will continue his role as a partner at the firm’s Inverness office. He said: “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.”