Milestone for Palatine-backed bk plus as it enters London market

Midlands-Based accountancy and advisory firm bk plus, has strengthened its national presence with its first move into the London market as Freeman Carr joins the fast-growing firm.

The move marks a significant milestone for bk plus, taking the firm to 43 offices across the UK and more than 800 professionals, as it continues to build a national business focused on supporting owner managed businesses and SMEs, with the backing of Palatine supporting its ambitious growth strategy.

Founded in 2003 by Lisa Carr, Freeman Carr has built a strong reputation advising businesses and individuals across London and the South East. The firm will now become part of the wider bk plus group, giving clients access to additional specialist expertise while retaining the team and relationships they know and trust.

Having began her career with KPMG, Lisa established the business in Chiswick with an aim to provide advice that is technically strong, practical and accessible.

Shaun Knight, CEO of bk plus, said: “Freeman Carr is a fantastic firm with a strong reputation and a loyal client base. Lisa has built something very special and we are delighted to welcome her and the team to bk plus.

“London and the wider South East is a hugely important market and so this is an important step for us as we continue to grow the firm across the UK, supported by Palatine. From the start, our ambition has been to build a national business made up of strong regional teams. Entering the London market is another important step in that journey.”

Richard Thomas, Partner at Palatine, said: “bk plus has continued to demonstrate strong momentum as it builds a high-quality, national accountancy group. The firm’s expansion into London with Freeman Carr marks an important milestone, strengthening its regional model in a key market. We look forward to supporting the team as they continue to grow both organically and through acquisitions.”

Freeman Carr will continue to operate from its London office with the existing team remaining in place as part of the wider bk plus group.

Since investing in the business in September 2023, we have supported bk plus’ experienced management team’s  ambitious buy and build strategy.