Financial services provider and advisory firm ETL Global has acquired a controlling stake in Upton Ryan, a Dublin-based firm specialising in professional services, hospitality, and construction.

The transaction marks ETL's fourth investment in professional services firms over the past two years following its acquisitions of Noone Casey, DMB Chartered Accountants, and Guardian Management Accountants.

With the investment, Upton Ryan will accelerate plans to move to Rathoath, where it opened an office in February to cater to SMEs in Meath and north Co. Dublin.

Paul Warren will also be promoted to partner.

“Our commitment to supporting forward-thinking professional firms like Upton Ryan demonstrates our belief in their potential for growth," said Anthony Casey, managing director of ETL Global.

"This investment not only reinforces our ongoing strategy but also highlights the buoyant market environment with significant opportunities for collaboration and innovation.” 

Upton Ryan made a profit of €146,800 in 2023, up from €107,900 in 2022. The company employs 10 people, according to its latest accounts.

Christy Upton, partner at Upton Ryan, described the deal as "an incredible opportunity to expand our reach and strengthen our partnerships.

"The relationships we are forging within the ETL network will profoundly benefit our organisation and our clients. I'm excited to see how this evolves and the positive impact it will have on our future endeavours."

Photo: The Upton Ryan team on the opening of the new offices in Rathoath. (Pic: Supplied)