Belvoir acquires Northwood to become UK's largest property franchise group

GRANTHAM, U.K. - June 7, 2016 - PRLog -- Belvoir is delighted to announce the acquisition of Northwood, the largest remaining independent lettings franchise in the UK, adding a further 86 offices to the network, and taking the total number of outlets to 301.

"I am delighted to confirm that, subject to completion today, Belvoir will be acquiring Northwood GB Ltd," says Dorian Gonsalves, Belvoir's Managing Director. "Northwood, which was started in 1995, is a very well-respected lettings and sales network with a strong lettings bias and the opportunity to acquire the company represented a clear strategic and cultural fit for Belvoir. It is also indicative of our commitment to developing the network with multi-brand franchises. The Northwood acquisition will add 86 franchised offices in various locations around the UK and I am pleased to say that this will position the Group as the largest property franchise in the UK with more than 54,000 managed properties and a total of 301 outlets.

"When we floated on the London Stock Exchange in 2012 we made a clear promise to our network and to our investors that we would reach 200 offices before the end of 2016. Having achieved 300+ offices by June 2016, we are well ahead of our target.

"Similar to when we floated in 2012, and then went on to acquire the Goodchilds and Newton Fallowell brands in 2015, the acquisition of Northwood is not anticipated to have any detrimental impact on existing Belvoir or Northwood offices. Both brands have already operated successfully in the same territories for several years and this situation will continue unchanged.

"Over the last twelve months Belvoir has demonstrated that it is possible to operate a successful multi-brand strategy with effectively a "glass wall" between each brand and, of course, separate management and support teams. It's clear to everyone that our industry is evolving around us and we have chosen to be at the forefront of consolidation in our sector, which over time, will bring numerous benefits and provide underlying strength to our Group. Our enlarged network means we're in a far better position to face competitive changes in our marketplace in the future, and capitalise on opportunities as the industry evolves.

"In addition to our recent acquisitions of existing franchise networks, we have worked extremely hard to put our franchise owners forward as credible, well-prepared and well-funded acquisition buyers in their local territories. As a franchisor, we will continue to do the same when strategic opportunities present themselves. Our pipeline of franchisee-led acquisitions remains strong and several new acquisitions are due to complete in the next few weeks, bringing second and even third offices to those Belvoir franchise owners who have been actively pursuing their own acquisition strategy.

"To survive and thrive in our market, and to further enhance our collective brands locally and nationally, we must continue to explore new frontiers. The Northwood acquisition is a prime example of our commitment to this. I am delighted to confirm that Gemma Goodson, Chief Executive of Northwood, will be remaining in her role, as will Managing Director Eric Walker. Their invaluable input will provide continuity and a wealth of experience that will help to ensure the success of this new partnership."

Speaking of the acquisition, Northwood Managing Director Eric Walker said: "Belvoir is hugely respected within the industry and there is great empathy between the two Boards. This is an age of consolidation and we really needed to try and find a partner so that we could develop and expand our business, whilst continuing to offer our USP of a guaranteed rent product. The entire Northwood Board was in agreement that we like the way that Belvoir operates, as they are always consummate professionals with a similar ethos and ethical approach to business. This really is a marriage made in heaven and a fantastic opportunity for everyone."

• To find your nearest Belvoir office, visit their website at www.belvoir.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITORS

·       Belvoir was founded in February 1995 by Mike and Stephanie Goddard. Its Central Office is in Grantham, Lincolnshire.

·       Mike was chairman of the bfa for three consecutive years and is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Belvoir. Dorian Gonsalves is Managing Director. Dorian sits on the Board of The Property Ombudsman.

·       Belvoir is recognised as the largest lettings and sales franchise group in the UK, with 301 offices nationwide.

·       Belvoir was officially awarded the Best Lettings Agency Franchise - Gold Award at the 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2010 Lettings Agency of the Year Awards in association with The Sunday Times & The Times. Belvoir also won the Silver Award in 2011.

·       Belvoir was voted Best Large Lettings Chain at the Estate & Letting Agent Awards (ESTAs) 2013, which was hosted by Phil Spencer, and won Silver in 2014 and 2015. Belvoir has won Brand Builder of the Year at the bfa Franchisor of the Year Awards 2011 and Best Marketing Campaign of the Year at the Franchise Marketing Association (FMA) Awards 2011.

·       Belvoir is a founder member of the SAFEagent Kitemark scheme, which is fully supported by NALS. SAFEagent promotes client money protection (CMP) and provides consumers with a clear message on those agents they should do business with.

·       Belvoir successfully listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange on 21^st February 2012.

For further information or to arrange an interview please contact Andrea McHugh, Headlines Journalism, tel: 01476 567438/07940 930 331, email: andrea@headlinesjournalism.co.uk, or visit https://www.belvoir.co.uk/