Professional and business services lead the charge on private equity uptick
Private equity (PE) activity in the professional and business services (PBS) industry saw a quarter-on-quarter growth of 34% in Q4 of 2025 with 193 PE buyouts, according to analysis of PitchBook data by leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM.
Professional and business services made up nearly half (44.84%) of PE deals that took place in Q4. Whilst these figures show a 4.93% decrease from the same period last year, the quarter-on-quarter growth indicates a continued appetite for private equity across the sector.
Hywel Pegler, Head of Professional and Business Services at RSM UK, said: “Private equity appetite continues to grow amongst the professional and business services market. As demand for accounting, legal and consultancy services remains strong, and firms in this sector look to grow and innovate, there is solid ground for this uptick in deal activity to continue in 2026.
“We’re seeing a real shake up in how the professional and business services market is structured, whether it’s PE backed or large-scale transatlantic mergers, firms are looking for scale to better service clients. This could be to embed new technology into the business, adding efficiencies and value to improve the client experience and boost profitability - allowing firms to maintain a competitive edge in a fast-evolving market.
“PE also throws structural and operational practices into the spotlight. Historically, making partner was a key career driver, but younger cohorts may prefer a corporate model to offer greater incentive to shape the future firm – challenging the traditional partnership model and resulting in firms adopting new modern structures. This will continue to be a key trend for 2026.
He added: “PE deals are also placing increased scrutiny on regulatory compliance across the industry. These factors could have significant impact on the long-term viability of firms, so staying on the pulse with changes is key.
“Firms willing to adapt and maximise growth opportunities will gain a competitive edge, whether that’s by driving forward ambitious growth plans or ensuring current business operations are compatible with potential regulatory shifts and differing generational attitudes.”