Two firms within the ETL Global UK group have completed strategic acquisitions as they continue to expand their capabilities, geographic reach and support for SME clients.
Naylor Accountancy Services has acquired Buckinghamshire-based firm Another Answer, while Milton Keynes-headquartered Ad Valorem has completed the acquisition of Collett Hulance, strengthening its presence across the Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor.
The deals reflect continued momentum across the ETL Global UK group, where partner firms are scaling through acquisitions while maintaining their independence, culture and local client relationships.
Headquartered in Tunbridge Wells, Naylor Accountancy Services’ acquisition of Another Answer marks the latest step in its UK-wide growth strategy. The firm, which operates from offices across Tunbridge Wells, Crowborough, Chichester, Romsey, Southampton and London Bridge, is actively building a national footprint under the Naylor Accountancy Services brand.
Another Answer, a seven-person firm based in Bourne End, Buckinghamshire, strengthens Naylor’s presence in the South East. It brings together two businesses with a long-standing relationship, while also providing a succession solution for founders Sylvia and Neil Bourhill as they retire from the business.
The acquisition is Naylor Accountancy Services’ fifth since 2021 and was completed in just nine weeks, reflecting the strength of its in-house acquisition capability and repeatable integration model. The firm continues to see a strong pipeline of opportunities as it looks to complete further deals this year.
Nikolai Naylor, Managing Director of Naylor Accountancy Services, said: “We’re building a business that helps clients go beyond compliance and really grow. This acquisition is a strong strategic fit and another step in scaling the Naylor Accountancy Services brand across the UK. With ETL’s backing, we’ve built the systems, technology and acquisition capability to move quickly, and we’re actively pursuing further opportunities.”
Naylor works with a broad range of SME clients, including businesses in e-commerce, creative agencies, digital and tech, nursing homes, builders and tradespeople. It supports them with everything from HMRC compliance through to improving profitability, long-term business performance and getting them ready to exit their firm with a good valuation.
Ad Valorem’s acquisition of Collett Hulance reflects its long-term strategy of supporting owner-managed businesses while investing in talent, technology and specialist services. The deal strengthens its presence across the Oxford-Cambridge arc, a region expected to see increased business activity, including expected demand linked to the proposed Universal Studios development in Bedfordshire.
Collett Hulance, an 80-year-old practice with long-standing client relationships, will retain its name and leadership team, with directors Andrew Upton and Mark Bottomley remaining in place. The firm will continue to operate from its existing location, with a commitment to maintain its local presence for at least the next five years, ensuring continuity for clients and staff.
For Ad Valorem, the acquisition forms part of its strategy to build broader capability and better support the firms it brings into the group, particularly in addressing common challenges faced by mid-sized practices, including talent retention and investment in technology. With ETL’s backing, the firm has accelerated investment in systems and infrastructure, enabling it to scale its offering and create new opportunities for its people, while preserving the independence and identity of the businesses it brings into the group.
Nikki Adams, Director of Ad Valorem, said: “Our focus has always been on supporting small businesses, and this acquisition strengthens our ability to do that. Collett Hulance is a highly respected firm with deep local relationships, and keeping its name, leadership team and local presence was incredibly important. With the support of ETL, we’ve been able to invest in technology and build the infrastructure needed to grow, while still protecting the independence and culture that matter to our people and our clients.”
Ad Valorem has now completed four acquisitions with ETL’s backing and continues to build a strong pipeline of opportunities, with ongoing discussions with like-minded practices as it expands across key regional growth areas.
Sara Brassington, Managing Director of ETL Global UK, added: “What we’re seeing across our group is a clear shift in how professional services firms are choosing to grow. Partners want the ability to scale, invest and plan for succession, without losing control of what they’ve built. These acquisitions reflect that approach in action – bringing together strong local firms, backing them with investment and infrastructure, and creating a platform for long-term, sustainable growth.”
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