Holborn Financial, a Wimbledon-based independent financial adviser (IFA) firm, has acquired the business of a retiring IFA, Gary Cook, for an undisclosed sum.

Cook is the principal of IFA firm, Gary Cook Financial Services, based in Maidstone, Kent.

Holborn Financial previously acquired Nigel Field Financial Services of Maidstone, Kent, in May 2021.

Commenting on the deal, MD and founder of Holborn Financial, Emyr Blease, said the firm has an aim to expand in a “measured and cautious way”.

“We are keen to acquire the businesses of IFAs who are planning to retire,” Blease said. “Many IFAs started their careers in the corporate world, working for banks, large investment, life and pension firms, before deciding to set up on their own. That is the path I took.

“I understand how these entrepreneurs, unfettered by corporate life, found the freedom to build businesses based on the highest possible standards of service, leading to lasting relationships with clients.

“When the time comes to retire, the overwhelming concern is that the clients are well looked after. We are delighted that that concern was fully addressed and that Gary chose Holborn Financial.”

Cook added that he had interviewed several “would-be buyers” of the business he had built up over years.

“After much consideration, I greed terms with Holborn Financial,” Cook revealed. “It is a larger family-based, independent chartered financial planning firm, with greater resources and an existing presence in Maidstone.

“I am extremely confident that my former clients will build successful relationships and receive a comprehensive and trustworthy service from a team of highly qualified, young and experienced advisers, that prides itself on a personal service tailored to clients' requirements.”

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