AAB announce deal with Kreston Reeves creating a £200m+ group

Leading professional services firms, AAB and Kreston Reeves, have today announced a landmark deal that will take the combined business beyond £200 million in annual revenue, marking a significant step in both firms’ long-term growth strategy. The combined business will employ more than 1,800 people across 23 locations in the UK and Ireland.

AAB has invested in Kreston Reeves, supported by Goldman Sachs Alternatives, significantly enhancing AAB’s scale, geographic reach and service capability, strengthening its position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing mid-market advisory firms. This transformational deal is the largest AAB have completed to date and marks the 18^th since AAB initially secured private equity investment in 2021.

Kreston Reeves, a leading accountancy and business advisory firm in the South East of England with over £50m revenue, and more than 550 people across 7 offices in London, Kent and Sussex. The firm has a 200+ year heritage and an experienced team of people delivering a high-touch, personalised client service and strong supportive culture. Kreston Reeves brings complementary expertise across audit, accounting, tax and advisory services along with a diversified portfolio of SME and mid-market clients that is very well aligned with the existing AAB client base. The joining of forces with Kreston Reeves underlines AAB’s strategy of identifying high-quality professional service firms that align with its culture, values and commitment to sustainable growth.

Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB, commented:

“This is a major milestone for AAB and a clear demonstration of our ambition to become the leading professional services firm serving the mid-market. Growing the group beyond £200 million revenue is not about growth for growth’s sake – it’s about building a resilient, sustainable business that delivers long-term value for our clients, our people and our communities.

This is our third deal since our investment deal with Goldman Sachs Alternatives was completed two months ago, and we are hugely excited about the future opportunities ahead as we continue to scale by combining businesses who share our dedication to putting clients at the heart of everything we do.”

Richard Spofforth, Managing Partner at Kreston Reeves, added:

“This is a significant milestone for our business, people and clients. Building on the strengths we have at Kreston Reeves, it will create new opportunities for our talented colleagues. For our clients, it will provide them with access to broader specialist expertise together with greater geographic reach.

“Most importantly, AAB shares the same values as Kreston Reeves, giving us a combined platform for sustainable long-term growth.”

Jose Barreto, Partner, and Mihir Lal, Managing Director, Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, commented:

“We are very excited about the strategic combination of AAB and Kreston Reeves. This partnership accelerates our vision for a national presence across the UK and Ireland, delivering essential scale in the South-East of England. The deep cultural alignment between AAB and Kreston Reeves will strengthen the collective offering for both customers and employees.”

AAB’s strategic expansion plan is set to continue with further investment opportunities already under discussion to strengthen its regional and national footprint.

The partnership is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in Spring 2026.

AAB was advised by Goldman Sachs International (financial adviser), Addleshaw Goddard, and Linklaters (legal advisers).