Key facts
- Big Four firms secured £1.5 billion in UK government contracts in 2026.
The Big Four accounting and advisory firms have secured over £1.5 billion in UK government contracts this year, according to data from Tussell. This figure represents a 50% increase compared to the entire previous year, making it the second most successful year for the firms since 2012. The UK government, however, disputed the report, stating that plans to reduce spending on consultants remain on track.
The substantial government contracts awarded to the Big Four firms, despite stated intentions to cut consultant spending, raise questions about public expenditure and the government's fiscal priorities. The figures indicate a significant increase in reliance on these firms for public services.
The Big Four accounting and advisory firms have secured over £1.5 billion in UK government contracts so far in 2026, a figure that represents a 50% increase from the entire previous year, according to data provider Tussell. This makes 2026 the second most successful year for the firms since Tussell began tracking data in 2012. However, the UK government has disputed the report, stating that its plans to reduce spending on consultants are proceeding as scheduled. The headline figure of £1.5 billion was reported by Bloomberg Tax, citing Tussell.
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