Northwood Chelmsford franchisees have completed the acquisition of the Zoe Napier Group, adding a high-value property specialist to their Essex operations as part of an ongoing expansion strategy.
Zaman and Amina Sheikh, who took over the Chelmsford office in 2023, completed the transaction following their acquisition of Shenfield-based WN Properties in late 2025. The Zoe Napier Group operates in the upper end of the market, including equestrian, coastal, waterside, country and high-value residential property.
Business structure and retention
The acquired business will operate alongside WN Properties and Northwood Bespoke under the Sheikh’s ownership. Zoe Napier, who has over 40 years of experience in the Essex property market, will remain involved as a consultant. The existing team will continue in their roles.
The acquisition reflects a broader consolidation trend in the agency sector, as operators seek to expand market coverage and service offerings. This follows landlords shifting to strategic portfolios as regulation reshapes the sector, with agencies adapting their business models accordingly.
“From my first conversation with Zaman, I felt his vision, ambition and energy to grow the Zoe Napier Group made him the perfect fit to take the business forward,” Napier said. “Throughout the transaction, Zaman and Amina delivered on every promise, completing the process seamlessly and in a timely manner.”
Franchise expansion
Phil Gee, group managing director of Northwood, which operates under The Property Franchise Group, described the acquisition as “a landmark acquisition for Zaman and Amina and a clear reflection of the ambition, professionalism and momentum they have built since taking over Northwood Chelmsford.”
The expansion comes as the agency sector faces increased regulatory scrutiny, with estate agents facing fines under new review regulations and rental advertising platforms facing compliance questions.
The transaction represents the second acquisition by the Sheikhs within a six-month period, indicating an active consolidation strategy in the Essex market. The combined operations will cover the full spectrum of the property market, from standard lettings through Northwood to high-value sales through the Zoe Napier Group brand.
