Grant Thornton looks to build on AIM domination
Grant Thornton is hoping to use its dominance of the AIM market as a bridgehead to bigger audits
New figures show the fifth largest firm gained 17 clients in the first
quarter taking its total to 232 AIM clients, according to Hemscott.
Head of professional affairs at the firm, Steve Maslin, said: ‘The really
exciting aspect of our AIM dominance is that it is proving to be a springboard
to success in the full list where the market has clearly indicated it will not
accept over reliance on four firms.
‘Eighteen months ago we had one audit client in the FTSE 250, today we have
six and we see that trend continuing.
‘Our transaction with Robson Rhodes last year also helped to consolidate our
sector leadership, for example bringing a strong financial services team to
bolster our already strong sector teams such as those in media and property.’
PricewaterhouseCooper lost six clients in the first quarter, allowing
Deloitte to leap into fourth place with 136 clients, while KPMG remains in
second place with 189. Despite losing four clients BDO holds on to its third
place position, according to the Hemscott AIM advisers rankings guide.
By industry sector Grant Thornton leads the way in industrials, consumer
goods, consumer services and technology. FTSE AIM 100 clients are still audited
mainly by the Big Four.