WEALTH April 30, 2026 0 Comments

HLB Ireland’s 12th Acquisition Just Dropped a Bombshell—Here’s Why It Changes the Game for Every Entrepreneur Watching

Ever wonder what it takes to leap from a solid local player to a national powerhouse in the professional services arena? Well, HLB Ireland just dropped a masterstroke by acquiring Leahy O’Riordan, a north Dublin gem that’s been quietly dominating the SME accounting scene since 1986. This isn’t just another merger—it’s a strategic power move that boosts their headcount to 180 and marks their twelfth acquisition in seven years—a clear signal that HLB is dead serious about cracking the top 10 in Ireland’s fiercely competitive market. But here’s the kicker: beyond expanding geographically, they’re also adding a sharp new edge with corporate recovery services, filling in a crucial gap for clients navigating troubled waters. I have to say, it’s a textbook example of scaling with precision—partnering with respected names like Eoin O’Riordan and Peter Dawson ensures continuity, loyalty, and fresh momentum. Backed by Cardinal Capital’s muscle, HLB Ireland isn’t just growing—they’re evolving, aiming to dominate an entire industry’s lifecycle. Curious to see how this bold strategy unfolds on Ireland’s business battlefield? LEARN MORE.

Accountancy, audit and advisory group HLB Ireland has acquired north Dublin-based Leahy O’Riordan Chartered Accountants.

The deal increases the group’s headcount to 180 and represents HLB’s 12th acquisition in the past seven years as its seeks to become a top 10 Irish professional services firm.

In addition to establishing HLB’s presence in the northside of the capital, the transactions also introduces a corporate recovery service line to the company.

Founded in 1986, Leahy O’Riordan is a full-service accounting and advisory firm with a long-standing reputation and a loyal SME client base, providing tax compliance, statutory accounts, audit, and advisory services.

Partners Eoin O’Riordan and Peter Dawson will continue to play key roles in the combined business, ensuring client continuity and supporting the next phase of growth.

“We’re very pleased to welcome the team and clients of Leahy O’Riordan to HLB Ireland. This transaction significantly strengthens our position in Ireland’s mid-market and expands our reach across the Northside of Dublin, an important growth area for us with access to people and clients,” said Mark Butler, managing partner at HLB Ireland.

“Leahy O’Riordan has built a strong reputation over many years, with a loyal client base and a consistent track record of high-quality service. That alignment in approach and values was a key factor in the transaction.

“We are also pleased to add Corporate Recovery to our service offering, further enhancing our ability to support clients across the full business lifecycle.

“With the backing of Cardinal Capital, we have a clear ambition to scale the business significantly over the coming years and to become a top 10 professional services firm in Ireland. This acquisition is an important step towards delivering on that strategy.”

The transaction forms part of HLB Ireland’s broader strategy to scale through targeted acquisitions alongside continued organic growth, with the firm actively positioned to pursue further deals as it expands its national footprint.

Leahy O’Riordan made a profit of €134,918 in 2024, bringing its accumulated profits to €812,623.

(Pic: Julien Behal Photography)