Bideford’s R T Marke & Co. acquires Kirk Hills

Bideford based R T Marke & Co. Chartered Accountants have continued their expansion with the acquisition of a long-standing and highly respected Exeter practice, Kirk Hills Chartered Accountants.

The acquisition, which took place on June 1, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the history of R T Marke & Co., which was founded in 1985, further expanding the firm's reach, and adding to its strong presence in Devon and Cornwall.

The acquisition also boosts the service offerings for small to medium-sized enterprises in the South West.

Kirk Hills partners, David Kirk, Adrian Hills, Sarah Chamberlain and the Exeter team have joined R T Marke & Co. and will continue to provide their current high standard of service, to their existing clients. The 45-strong team will benefit from increased opportunities for career development, across both Bideford and Exeter offices.

David Kirk, R T Marke & Co. Client Director (previously Kirk Hills) said: “The decision to join forces with R T Marke & Co. brings significant benefits to our clients and team. It will enable us to continue our proactive and forward-thinking approach to business advisory services. Our clients will continue to receive the highest standard of personal service, whilst also having opportunities to benefit from additional services and the skills of a larger local firm.”

Neil Marke, R T Marke & Co. Managing Director added: “We see an increasing demand for SME support in our region, so this acquisition ensures we bring together the highest degree of specialist services to our growing portfolio. Kirk Hills are a long-established accountancy practice in Exeter, with an exceptional reputation. Their commitment to nurturing their team and supporting clients dovetailed with ours. The shared desire to help SMEs grow their businesses and their complementary client mix means that we’re in a strong position to guide and advise the community of entrepreneurs in the South West.”

R T Marke & Co. are part of the Sumer Group which has plans to become the UK’s leading SME national practice. With their backing, the firm has plans to expand into other towns across Devon and Cornwall, supporting businesses to grow and reach their goals.