We are delighted to announce that, as of today (1st May 2025), McDonald Gordon & Co has officially joined EQ. This marks our third merger in the past 12 months and is a significant step forward in our ambitious strategy to triple turnover from £11 million to £30 million over the next four years.
This strategic merger strengthens our presence in the Central Belt, a key area of focus as we continue to grow our footprint across Scotland and enhance the range of services we provide to our clients.
Strengthening Our Team and Services
With the addition of the McDonald Gordon & Co team:
- Our Edinburgh office expands, deepening our reach in the capital and surrounding areas.
- Our team grows to approximately 262 professionals across our offices.
- We further enhance our ability to deliver an even wider range of sector-specific and specialist services to the SME sector.
This merger is about more than growth, it is about bringing together two firms that share the same core values, commitment to client service, and ambition for the future. By combining our resources, knowledge, and expertise, we are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of Scottish businesses.
Welcoming a Legacy of Excellence
Founded in the 1980s by Ian McDonald and the late Alan Gordon – a notable figure in Scottish football, having played for Hibernian FC and Heart of Midlothian, McDonald Gordon & Co has built an impressive legacy. Under the leadership of Raymond Paterson and Brian Duffy since 1994, the firm has earned a strong reputation for supporting the growth of family-owned and entrepreneurial businesses, guiding many from start-up to multi-million-pound enterprises.
Their 15-strong team will be based within our Edinburgh operations, perfectly complementing our mission to be Scotland’s leading adviser to the SME sector.
Craig Nicol, our Chief Executive, commented:
“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 resources EQ can offer.”
Raymond Paterson, Director at McDonald Gordon & Co, added:
“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, shared:
“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.”
EQ Accountants, Edinburgh
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Looking to the Future
We are excited to welcome our new colleagues from McDonald Gordon & Co and look forward to the opportunities this merger creates for our clients, our team, and the wider business community. Together, we are building a stronger, more dynamic firm, better equipped to support ambitious businesses across Scotland.
If you would like to find out more about this merger or how EQ Accountants can support your business, please get in touch.