EQ Accountants Accelerates Growth with Strategic Acquisition of McDonald Gordon & Co and Senior Appointments

Scottish accountancy firm EQ Accountants, part of the Sumer Group, has today (1st May 2025) announced a merger with Edinburgh based firm McDonald Gordon & Co, marking the firm’s third acquisition in the last 12 months.  

The move is a significant milestone in EQ’s ambitious growth strategy to triple turnover from £11 million to £30 million over the next four years. 

This strategic partnership strengthens EQ’s presence in the Central Belt, a key area of focus in the firm’s wider growth strategy.  

McDonald Gordon & Co was established in 1980 by Ian McDonald and the late Alan Gordon, a well-known figure both in business and Scottish football, having played for Hibernian FC and Heart of Midlothian. In 1994, Raymond Paterson and Brian Duffy took the reins and have since built a successful business with a strong reputation for client service and a proven track record in supporting the growth of family-owned businesses in the SME sector  

The 15-strong team, based in Edinburgh, has worked with ambitious clients for nearly 30 years, helping many grow from small beginnings to multi-million-pound enterprises. Their focus on supporting family-run and entrepreneurial businesses fits seamlessly with EQ’s mission to be Scotland’s leading adviser to the SME sector. 

Craig Nicol, Chief Executive of EQ Accountants, said: “Bringing McDonald Gordon & Co into EQ is a considered and strategic move that reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Scotland’s SME sector. Their long-standing reputation, loyal client base and shared values make them an ideal fit. This partnership enhances our reach across Central Scotland and ensures more business owners have access to the depth of expertise and resource EQ can offer.” 

Raymond Paterson, Director at McDonald Gordon & Co, commented: “We took our time in choosing the right partner for the next chapter of our business. EQ stood out as a major player in the SME space, with values that align strongly with our own. Joining EQ gives us access to greater resources, specialist knowledge and the backing of a larger team, all of which will benefit our clients immensely.” 

Brian Duffy, Director at McDonald Gordon & Co, added: “This move isn’t just about scale, it’s about shared vision. EQ has the infrastructure and investment behind it to help us do even more for our clients, while preserving the close, personal service we’ve always delivered. We’re excited about what’s next.” 

The acquisition follows a period of exceptional growth for EQ, with turnover doubling in the past year. In line with this momentum, the firm has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of four new partners

• Michelle Murray has been promoted from Principal Manager to Partner, reflecting EQ’s ongoing investment in internal talent and leadership development
• Ged McLaughlin, who joins EQ to focus on corporate finance. He also brings extensive experience in due diligence, lead advisory, acquisitions and disposals, financial forecasting and auditing
• Dougy Agnew, who also joins the team to specialise in corporate tax, further bolstering EQ’s capabilities in this core advisory area. 
• Hazel Burt, who brings a dual focus on personal tax compliance and consultancy. She will manage a diverse portfolio of both business and private clients, adding further strength to EQ’s client-facing advisory offering.