WEALTH October 22, 2025 0 Comments

S&W’s Game-Changing Move: Why Snapping Up MC2 Accountants Could Reshape the Entire Industry—And What It Means for Your Next Big Opportunity

Ever wonder what happens when two financial powerhouses decide to join forces in the Emerald Isle? Well, S&W, that professional services group that’s been quietly shaking things up, just announced a game-changing move by snapping up Cork-based MC2 Accountants. It’s not just a merger—it’s a strategic injection of talent and expertise, welcoming 47 new colleagues (including four partners!) into S&W’s Ireland fold, which is already buzzing with a growing crew of over 115 professionals. With MC2’s solid roots since 2013 as one of Munster’s premier audit, tax, and advisory firms, this union promises a treasure trove of end-to-end financial solutions that’ll make clients sit up and take notice. And here’s the kicker—this isn’t S&W’s first rodeo; they recently bolstered their Irish presence with the acquisition of Beechwood Partners in Dublin, signaling a bold ambition to grow and innovate. So, are we watching the rise of Ireland’s next big financial powerhouse? Hold on tight—it’s about to get interesting. LEARN MORE

Professional services group S&W has signalled its ambitions for continued growth in Ireland by reaching an agreement to acquire Cork-based MC2 Accountants.

The deal will see 47 new colleagues, including four partners, join S&W’s Ireland business, which currently employs around 115 people and was recently bolstered by the acquisition of Dublin-based Beechwood Partners.

Established in 2013, MC2 is one of Munster’s leading audit, tax and business advisory firms, providing clients with a suite of end-to-end financial and business solutions.

MC2’s business incorporates Parfrey Murphy, which it acquired in 2022.

S&W offers clients in Ireland a broad range of services spanning tax advice, assurance and business services and a suite of advisory and digital services that include recovery and restructuring, transaction services and forensic advice.

Andrew Wilkes, CEO at S&W, said he is delighted to welcome the team from MC2 Accountants to S&W.

“MC2 is a highly respected and forward-thinking firm which fits well with S&W both in terms of expertise, culture, and the clients it works with,” he added.

“Like S&W, MC2 is a business committed to building long standing relationships that add real, discernible value to clients.

“Our partnership with Apax Fundsisproviding us with the firepower to invest in our transformational growth.

“This gives us the platform to strengthen our offerings to our clients through continuing to execute the acquisition of high-quality accountancy firms with complementary expertise, like MC2.”

John O’Callaghan, Managing Partner in S&W’s Ireland business added: “This deal builds on the momentum we’re generating in Ireland and reinforces our commitment to expanding in this exciting market.”

James Loughrey, Partner at MC2 Accountants said: “Becoming part of a larger organisation gives us the infrastructure and wider capabilities to continue to deliver joined-up solutions across multiple service lines, ensuring we can support clients as their needs become more complex in a more challenging world.

“Importantly, S&W’s strong focus on private clients and owner-managed businesses aligns perfectly with our own.”

S&W was launched in March 2025, following the sale of Evelyn Partners’ professional services business to Apax Funds.

Drawing on the heritage of Smith & Williamson, which was founded in 1881, S&W has more than 2,000 employees and more than 130 partners based in Ireland and the UK.

Photo: MC2 Accountants partners James McMahon, Pamela Murphy and James Loughrey, with John O’Callaghan, Managing Partner, S&W Ireland. Pic: Brain Lougheed