Fairstone expands market presence with takeover of Imagine Financial Planning
Deal News | Jan 27, 2025 | B Daily
Fairstone, a national wealth management firm headquartered in Sunderland, has reinforced its market position with the acquisition of Imagine Financial Planning, based in Harrogate. This acquisition, part of Fairstone's downstream buy-out programme initiated in 2021, increases the company's funds under management to over £18 billion, solidifying its status as one of the UK's largest wealth managers. The acquisition aligns with Fairstone's growth strategy, which includes expanding its UK network of firms. Fairstone's Managing Director for the North, Shona Lowe, praised Imagine Financial Planning’s client-first approach, highlighting the value Fairstone’s buy-out programme provides to partner firms while maintaining their independence. Imagine's Director, Nigel Woods, expressed enthusiasm about joining Fairstone and continuing growth under Fairstone's umbrella. Fairstone operates from multiple national bases beyond its Sunderland headquarters, evidencing its extensive reach within the UK wealth management sector.
Sectors
- Wealth Management
- Financial Services
Geography
- United Kingdom – The acquisition involves UK-based companies and highlights Fairstone's expansion within the UK market.
- Sunderland – Fairstone is headquartered in Sunderland, indicating a regional focus for part of the narrative.
- Harrogate – The location of Imagine Financial Planning, the target company in the acquisition.
Industry
- Wealth Management – The article's focus is on a national wealth management firm, Fairstone, acquiring another company to enhance its market position.
- Financial Services – Both Fairstone and Imagine Financial Planning operate within the financial services sector, particularly focused on managing investments and financial planning for clients.
Financials
- 18 billion – Fairstone's funds under management post-acquisition, highlighting its substantial presence in the wealth management sector.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairstone | Buyer | Company | A national wealth management firm headquartered in Sunderland, looking to expand its portfolio and market presence. |
| Imagine Financial Planning | Target Company | Company | A Harrogate-based financial planning firm acquired by Fairstone as part of a strategic growth initiative. |
| Shona Lowe | Managing Director, North | Person | An executive at Fairstone praising the acquisition's strategic fit and the firm's downstream buy-out programme. |
| Nigel Woods | Director | Person | A director at Imagine Financial Planning expressing enthusiasm about the acquisition and future growth opportunities. |