The newly released rankings demonstrate DFK’s continued growth, with the association’s collective turnover reaching $1.72 billion. This represents a dramatic 36% increase from the previous year’s IAB report, highlighting the strength and scale of DFK’s global community.

Over the past year, DFK International has welcomed 20 new firms into its growing alliance, whether through direct admission or strategic mergers. With an expanding global footprint, DFK ensures that firms and their clients have access to trusted professionals in every corner of world.

More importantly, each member firm upholds the DFK standard of excellence, ensuring they deliver high-quality, client-focused solutions across multiple jurisdictions. Regardless of location, member firms bring deep local expertise, a global perspective, and a shared commitment to outstanding service, instilling trust and confidence in clients as they navigate complex international challenges.

The association now comprises over 200 member firms, with more than 430 offices across over 90 countries and territories, and nearly 13,000 colleagues worldwide.

Bill Wright, Executive Director and CEO of DFK International, commented:

“We’re proud to be recognised once again as one of the leading global associations. The IAB report reflects the continued success of our members and the strength of our international community. Our members are united in their commitment to delivering exceptional service, and through DFK International, they collaborate extensively across borders to provide their clients with the specialist resources they need.”

DFK International continues to prioritise collaboration, cohesion and innovation across its association, solidifying its reputation as a trusted leader in the global accounting profession.

For further information, please contact Bill Wright, Executive Director and CEO.

Chris who brings a robust practice background in sectors such as real estate, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and legal; joins the firm from Cooper Parry (previously Haines Watts) Esher, where he served as an Associate Partner. He will be located in the Farnham office of Shaw Gibbs.

Chris expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating

“I’ve admired Shaw Gibbs from an outside perspective and have heard great things about them from my peers. Shaw Gibbs are known for being client-relationship driven and understanding clients’ needs inside and out. I am delighted to be a part of the team. “

Sarah Gardener, Head of Outsourcing adds

“As a department who lead on the adoption of software and processes to improve client service, we welcome fresh perspectives and forward-thinking individuals such as Chris who can help to drive change.

Chris was an exceptional candidate, and we look forward to the significant contribution his experience will bring to our clients and the firm as a whole.”

About Shaw Gibbs
Shaw Gibbs is a top 40 accountancy practice who provide expert solutions for entrepreneurial businesses and private individuals in Central and Southern England. They have offices in: Andover, Basingstoke, Bristol, Farnham, Guildford, Liss, London, Northampton, Oxford, Southampton, Sutton, Teddington, Thame and Winchester. Investing in their teams of high-quality specialists, Shaw Gibbs work with the best-in-breed technology to create value for clients which exceeds expectation.

The South West region has enjoyed  considerable growth in recent years and is home to some of the UK’s most entrepreneurial and fast-growing businesses, alongside the individuals who support them. In fact, reports estimate that the South West is likely to grow by 1.4% per year between 2024 and 2029, outstripping growth from other parts of the UK. 

Under Matt Bracher’s leadership, Haines Watts’ Bristol and Exeter offices have become integral to the success of the broader South West ecosystem. As one of the region’s most highly respected accountancy firms, the team supports many of its businesses in tech, property, renewable energy, legal services, and charitable organisations, all closely aligned with some of Gravita’s key sectors. 

This partnership brings together teams with a similar ethos who share the ambition of pioneering the next generation of accountancy firms. With a fresh approach, enabled by technology but with its people at the core, the team is raring to start this exciting new chapter.
 

But most importantly, it is clear that we share an affinity for building close client relationships and a culture that attracts and retains top talent.
 

Our CEO, Caroline Plumb OBE, said: The South West is home to some of the UK’s most entrepreneurial businesses. From the beginning, it has been clear that Haines Watts Western – led by Matt Bracher – sits at the heart of that ecosystem. We’re incredibly excited to support the ongoing growth of this highly talented team and its clients across the region.

Gravita is perfectly aligned with Matt, and the wider team in a shared focus on building long-term client relationships, supporting exceptional teams, and harnessing a technology culture to improve client service. We wish the whole team a warm welcome to Gravita, and we’re thrilled that they will be part of our exciting journey as we re-imagine a new era of accounting services which prioritises our clients’ success, not just for today but also tomorrow.”
 

Maria Tozzi Spadoni, Investment Team at Tenzing said: “This acquisition expands Gravita’s footprint, adding a great new location from which to serve SMEs. We are excited to support Matt and his team to continue their growth journey.”
 

Matt Bracher, lead Partner for Gravita South West said: “When the opportunity with Gravita arose, it was an easy decision for us. Gravita offers a fresh approach, enabled by technology but with its people at the core. Accountancy firms need to stay ahead of the market as the industry transforms, and in Gravita we have found a partner who shares our vision. For our clients and team, it is business as usual. This collaboration will complement the work we are already doing, and help us to adapt to the future as the industry evolves at pace.”