S&W strengthens Irish presence with MC2 deal

An accountancy and advisory firm is set to grow its Irish operations following a strategic acquisition in Cork.

S&W has reached an agreement to purchase MC2 Accountants, bringing 47 new colleagues, including four partners, into its Ireland business. 

The move follows S&W’s recent expansion with the acquisition of Dublin-based Beechwood Partners and reflects its ongoing commitment to building a strong presence across the country.

Founded in 2013, MC2 is one of Munster’s prominent audit, tax and business advisory firms, offering end-to-end financial and business solutions. 

Its business also incorporates Parfrey Murphy, acquired in 2022, further broadening the firm’s reach and expertise.

James Loughrey, partner at MC2 Accountants, said: “We are proud of the growth we have achieved as an independent practice, and now is the right time to take the next step in our journey by joining S&W. 

“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. 

“The success of MC2 has been built on the support of our dedicated team and loyal clients, and this move will benefit both.”

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. 

“Partnering with the MC2 Accountants team gives us a strong foothold in Cork – a dynamic, fast-growing city – and enables more clients to access our full suite of high-quality accountancy and advisory services.”

S&W serves clients across the mid-market with a wide range of services, including tax advice, assurance, recovery and restructuring, transaction support, forensic advisory and digital solutions. 

The firm launched in March 2025 following the sale of Evelyn Partners’ professional services business to Apax Funds, and it draws on the heritage of Smith & Williamson, founded in 1881.

Today, S&W employs more than 2000 people across the UK and Ireland, with over 130 partners based in the UK and Ireland.

Andrew Wilkes, chief executive at S&W, added: “I’m delighted to welcome the team from MC2 Accountants to S&W in our second acquisition in Ireland as a stand-alone group. 

“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.

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

“Our partnership with Apax Funds is providing 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.”

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