Solent: HJS Accountants acquires Winchester firm Davis Lombard

HJS Accountants (HJS), with offices in London and Southampton, has acquired accountancy firm Davis Lombard, with offices in Winchester and Fareham, ensuring it is well placed to serve clients throughout the region.

For HJS, which specialises in owner-managed businesses and personal tax clients, the acquisition underlines the firm's commitment to the development of business in Winchester and the surrounding area.

Managing director Gareth Stokes commented: "The acquisition is a strategic move, enabling HJS to provide an even better service to existing clients in and around Winchester and Hampshire.

"We see Winchester as a prominent marketplace with a superb mix of traditional family-run businesses and dynamic young start-ups. With our knowledge and experience, we have the offering to help these businesses succeed. We look forward to working with our existing clients and making new contacts within the local business community.

"With the retention of all Davis Lombard staff and the addition of two new recruits at the Winchester office, local clients will have the combined benefit of continuity and improved service with a larger, stronger team headed up by new office manager, Mark Davis."

The move also has historical significance for HJS which, in its 20 years, has always had clients in Winchester, the city in which Stokes began his career in accountancy.

“Strategically and geographically, this is an important step in our plan for future expansion,” added Stokes. "It feels like a natural progression - and from a personal perspective, it’s good to be back.”

All staff at the Davis Lombard office in Fareham have been relocated to the HJS head office in Southampton.