Harrison Drury supports longstanding client Haleys on sale to Cowgills

Harrison Drury continues longstanding relationship with Haleys.

Harrison Drury has supported Preston-based Haleys Business Advisers through its sale to leading North West accountancy and business advisory firm Cowgills, continuing a relationship that began when Haleys was established in 1994.

Led by corporate partner Jack Stephenson and supported by associate solicitor Laura Bradley, our team helped Haleys navigate the sale process, advising and supporting the firm as it prepared to join Cowgills, part of Sumer Group.

Based in Whitesake, Haleys has supported owner-managed businesses and SMEs across Preston and Lancashire for over three decades with accountancy, tax and business advisory services.

The acquisition establishes a Cowgills office in Preston, with 16 Haleys employees joining the business and taking its team to about 300 colleagues across the North West.

For Haleys’ clients, the move gives them access to a broader range of specialist services across Cowgills and Sumer, while retaining the local relationships and personal service the firm has built its offering around.

Jack said: “Selling a business is a significant decision, even for those who advise business owners every day. With a working relationship that dates over 30 years, we value the trust they placed in us to guide them through this sale. It has been rewarding to support a business that has helped so many others in our region.”

“Preston has a close-knit business community, and firms like Haleys play an important role in helping local businesses grow and reach their potential. This deal builds on that contribution, giving clients access to a wider range of expertise while retaining the people and relationships they know here in Preston.”

The Preston office joins Cowgills’ existing locations in Bolton, Manchester, Liverpool, Stockport and Wigan. Cowgills became part of Sumer Group in 2024, supporting its plans for further growth across the region.

Timothy J Haley, managing director at Hayleys, said: “A big thank you to Jack Stephenson and his team at Harrison Drury for supporting us throughout the sale process. Harrison Drury have been Haleys’ solicitors all the way through since we set the firm up in 1994. During that time, we have been pleased to introduce many clients to their team.

“Best wishes to HD, and we hope to carry on working with them in the future as Cowgills’ Preston office.”

Like Haleys, Harrison Drury supports SMEs across Lancashire, providing legal advice to help business owners manage day-to-day matters and plan for growth or a future sale. These businesses contribute substantially to the national economy: according to the Department for Business and Trade’s 2025 estimates, SMEs account for 60% of UK private-sector employment and 51% of private-sector turnover.

To discuss buying or selling a business, contact our corporate team on 01772 258321.

Jack Stephenson