AN ACCOUNTANCY firm has become part of a worldwide network which has the potential to attract international business to the North East.

Wynyard-based Evolution has joined four other UK companies to become part of HLB International’s network of independent professional accounting firms and business advisers.

It will now be the point of contact for all incoming international business covering North East England.

Evolution says it underwent rigorous assessments regarding the business culture, quality of work, competence of employees, policies and procedures to join the four other UK firms in the UK federation.

Joanne Regan, client partner and head of audit, was responsible for this nine-month application to become part of the network.

She said: “This is very exciting news for us and the North East as we will now be representing the region on a global scale.

“HLB International is a network of independent accounting professionals which is represented in over 100 countries. This is a huge benefit when advising our clients as any international interests, currently and in the future, can be catered for in-house.

“If someone needs tax advice about a project in the Middle East or Australia, we can do that. Equally, we can advise on incoming business, for example a Russian company looking to set up in the North East.”

Managing partner of Evolution, Martin Barber, said: “We are delighted to be part of the network. This is an excellent opportunity for us and our clients to grow as we believe this will provide us an edge when offering advice. We are also looking forward to working with the other firms within the network by sharing knowledge and ideas.”