Suttons Independent Financial Advisers (IFA) has acquired Bolton-based firm, Whitewell Financial Planning, for an undisclosed sum.

Whitewell was founded in 2008 by Phil O’Connor and provides financial planning, investment and retirement planning advice to individuals, business owners and directors across the North West and further afield.

It currently boasts almost £40m of client assets under management.

O’Connor, who is a chartered financial planner, will continue to work with Suttons following the deal and be the main point of contact for his clients.

Suttons, which was established in 2006 by Harvey Sutton, is a chartered financial planning firm providing wealth management, tax, pensions and retirement planning advice to professionals, business owners and entrepreneurs. It currently has 20 staff and £240m of client assets under management.

Managing director at Suttons, Ben Preston, said: "Phil has built a business that genuinely puts his clients first and we’re delighted to welcome them to Suttons. Whitewell is a great fit for us, as we share the same commitment to delivering a first-class financial advice and wealth management service that makes a meaningful difference to the lives of our customers.

“By merging our firms, we’re able to offer Whitewell’s clients a broader range of services and expertise, the support of our larger team and ultramodern digital infrastructure that underpins our firm.”

O’Connor concluded: "There was interest from a number of parties, but I felt Suttons was the right fit for the business. Suttons is a well-established chartered firm with a strong local reputation and a commitment to personal advice. We share the values that matter to me, of honesty, independence and putting clients first.

"I will be working alongside their advisers going forward and will continue to be my clients’ adviser and main point of contact. Suttons will handle the administration and support behind the scenes. For customers of Whitewell, all of their plans and arrangements will continue uninterrupted."

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