The Access Group has recently disclosed its acquisition of ChangeGPS, an Australian-based software company, marking a significant move in bolstering its commitment to small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) and accounting firms in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). Established in 2016 in Brisbane, ChangeGPS gained notable recognition by securing the Xero Practice App of the Year award in 2022 for its innovative software tailored to assist Australia’s 14,000 accounting firms in enhancing profitable growth for both their clients and their own enterprises.
This strategic acquisition represents The Access Group’s fourth venture into accounting technology in ANZ within the last three years. The move is a part of The Access Group’s overarching strategy to consolidate a comprehensive suite of services that empower accounting firms to capitalize on growth opportunities effectively.
The collaborative efforts of The Access Group and ChangeGPS aim to offer Access customers an optimized experience through a seamlessly integrated suite of accounting tools. The integration of these services is envisioned to foster profitable and sustainable growth for both accounting firms and their clientele, while also positioning them to harness the benefits of emerging technologies.
Kerry Agiasotis, President of The Access Group Asia Pacific, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition and its potential impact on accounting firms. He stated, “I am excited to welcome ChangeGPS’ employees, customers, and partners to The Access Group, which we see as further strengthening our proposition to Accounting firms. The acquisition of ChangeGPS is another step towards realizing our vision of advancing the capabilities of accounting firms in Australia and New Zealand to help them drive profitable and sustainable growth for their firms and clients.”
Agiasotis emphasized The Access Group’s unwavering commitment to supporting the accounting industry, considering it fundamental to the success of SMEs, which are deemed the backbone of the economy.
Discussing the strategic move, David Boyar, CEO of ChangeGPS, characterized the acquisition as the commencement of a new and exciting era for the company. He viewed it as a heightened commitment to their mission, stating, “With The Access Group behind us, our growth and passion for delivering to Accountants and the Mums and Dads of Australia will be supercharged. It’s the start of an exciting new era for ChangeGPS, our members, and our team.”
Boyar anticipated that the merger would unlock additional opportunities for future product integration, positioning ChangeGPS to seize the evolving prospects in the industry.
Timothy Munro, founder of ChangeGPS, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with The Access Group and outlined his continued involvement in developing new ideas, products, and apps for accountants. Munro shared, “We have some amazing new apps for Accountants in the ChangeGPS pipeline, and now being part of The Access Group allows us to help even more accountants to help their clients to have more freedom and live a better life.”
The Access Group’s commitment to fostering a robust accounting industry as a cornerstone for SME success resonates throughout its broad range of offerings. The company’s approach enables accounting firms to achieve cost efficiencies through productivity gains while simultaneously expanding revenue streams through value-added advisory services that support their clients’ business growth, as highlighted by Agiasotis.
In conclusion, The Access Group’s acquisition of ChangeGPS signifies a strategic step toward solidifying its presence and support for the accounting industry in Australia and New Zealand. The amalgamation of their services is poised to create a synergistic platform that empowers accounting firms to navigate the evolving landscape, capitalize on technological advancements, and drive sustainable growth for themselves and their clients. The collaboration is a testament to The Access Group’s ongoing commitment to shaping the future of accounting technology in the ANZ region.
