North Wales chartered accountancy firm Salisbury's has acquired HB Chartered Accountants, a Mold-based practice previously run by founder Hilary Baines, adding a sixth office location and bringing its total headcount to close to 50 staff across north Wales.

International Accounting Bulletin reported that the deal coincides with Salisbury's 40th anniversary in business and follows a period of rapid expansion that has seen the firm double its team in two years and open multiple new offices. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

As part of the agreement, two existing HB staff member, chartered accountant Vanessa Blanchard and accounts administrator Abigail Bowers-Baines, have joined Salisbury's. The new Mold office on Chester Street will be managed by Salisbury's senior executive manager Hannah Addison, working alongside chartered accountant Luke Owen.

The acquisition extends Salisbury's presence to six locations across north Wales, complementing its existing offices in Ruthin, Beaumaris, Llangefni, Menai Bridge, and St Asaph. The firm has grown from a single office to its current six-location network over the past six years.

Salisbury's director Aled Roberts said: "Reaching 40 years in business is something we are incredibly proud of. The pace of growth over the last few years has been phenomenal. To double our team in just two years and open new offices shows the strength of the relationships we have built and the trust clients place in us."

Roberts added: "Moving into Mold is a big step for us. We are excited to be part of a thriving local business community and to support more companies and individuals while creating opportunities locally."

The acquisition follows the recruitment of six new staff members, including trainee accountants, last autumn as the practice continues to add capacity in line with its expansion plans.

Read the full report on Salisbury's acquisition of HB Chartered Accountants.