Smith & Williamson, the financial and professional services firm with a large office in Bristol, is to continue to invest in its people and technology after achieving strong growth in profits and income.
Operating profits in the half year to October 31 rose by 15.8% to £20.5m on income up by 10,7% at £130m against the equivalent six months in 2016. 
The firm, which has 11 offices across the UK employing 1,700 people – around 200 people in Bristol – also grew its funds under management and advice by 6.4% to £20bn in the period.
This year the firm plans to strengthen its senior team and continue its acquisition programme.
Bristol senior partner Mike Lea, pictured, said the office had enjoyed a period of continued growth from both private client and corporate instructions.
“It’s also a very exciting time for our team with growth driven by client demand for higher quality and yet cost-effective advice,” he said.
“Our emphasis is not only on the quality of advice, but also excellence of client service and outcomes and these results will spur us on to continually invest in our people, platforms and technology base for the benefit of all our clients.”
Co-chief executive Kevin Stopps said the growth had been achieved against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving market.
“Our focus on relationship-led expertise is exceptionally valued by clients and has again delivered strong results.
“Our strategy will allow us to better respond to, and take advantage of, market conditions and opportunities, including value accretive hires or acquisitions further enhancing our position as a leading adviser to private clients and their business interests. We will bring this to life with new programs for client experience, talent and infrastructure.”
The group, the UK’s eighth largest accountancy firm, is continuing to prepare for a potential listing on the London Stock Exchange following the collapse of £2bn merger talks with Rathbones last summer and was taking all necessary steps to achieve it, according to co-chief executive David Cobb.
“This preparation, including the major steps we are taking to upgrade our technology platform, will take time, and we anticipate that we will not be in a position to list before the second half of 2019,” he added.
