Business

Newry’s FPM and Belfast-based Think People become AAB under strategic brand consolidation

Rebrand follows 2022 acquisition of both firms by Anderson Anderson & Brown

L-R: Teresa Campbell, audit partner; Emma Lancaster, chief executive; and Feargal McCormack, managing partner - Ireland.
L-R: Teresa Campbell, audit partner; Emma Lancaster, chief executive; and Feargal McCormack, managing partner - Ireland.
By Staff Reporter

Newry-headquartered business advisory firm FPM has announced it will become AAB.

The move follows the 2022 acquisition of the accountancy firm by Anderson Anderson & Brown.

The rebrand is part of a consolidation of five group brands that will also see Belfast-based Think People become AAB People.

AAB’s move for Newry’s FPM two years ago was understood to be the first private equity investment in an accountancy firm on the island of Ireland.

Two other subsidiaries, Sagars and May Figures, will also become AAB under the group consolidation, while SeeHearSpeakUp joins Belfast and Dublin-based Think People to become AAB’s full-service people consultancy arm.

AAB has trebled in size since 2021. It now employs around 1,000 people across 12 office locations in Scotland, England and Ireland, operating in audit, accounting, tax, payroll, HR, consulting and advisory solutions globally, with annual turnover of around £100 million.

“Our brand consolidation marks a pivotal moment in our growth journey,” said AAB chief executive Emma Lancaster.

“By combining our diverse services under the widely recognised AAB brand, we are not only simplifying our structure, but also amplifying our ability to deliver integrated, innovative solutions to our clients.

“This alignment is crucial as we continue to pursue our ambitious growth targets and expand our footprint in the UK and beyond.

“We have a wealth of experience and expertise across all five brands, and we are delighted to welcome these individuals to the AAB brand. I’d like to thank everyone in our team for their continued hard work.”

Feargal McCormack of FPM and Emer Hinphey of Think People added: “As founders of FPM and Think People, we are both immensely proud of the milestones achieved and excited for what’s to come.

“Transitioning to the AAB brand marks a deliberate step towards our future and highlights the collective strength and shared mission of delivering outstanding service and value to clients.

“Together, we look forward to navigating this exciting new chapter of growth and possibility.”