ClearSky expands again with Dorset firm purchase
ClearSky Accounting's parent company makes its second acquisition in a year, to expand the practice
DORSET-BASED Lofts & Co has been snapped up by the parent company of ClearSky Accounting.
Optionis purchased the advisory business for an undisclosed fee, and is its second acquisition this year – following takeover of Manchester-based firm Michael Brookes & Co in May.
ClearSky was ranked at 87 in the latest Accountancy Age Top50 +50 Survey of firms.
Lofts provides tax advice to small businesses and wealthy individuals, operating with four staff and 150 clients. Founder Malcolm Lofts will continue to take an active role in the business.
Optionis group managing director Derek Kelly said the deal was “exciting”, with another deal already liend up.
“The acquisition of Lofts & Co, a well-established practice with an excellent reputation and expertise in inheritance tax, trusts and tax planning, will broaden our offering to businesses and individuals.
“Crucially, it will also support our aim of establishing ClearSky as the ‘go-to’ source of fixed-fee advice and guidance for Britain’s small businesses. Our next strategic acquisition is already in the pipeline and should hopefully be completed in late 2013 or early 2014.”