LRG is set to expand its footprint across southern England through the acquisition of Henry Adams, a property agency with origins dating back to 1826. The deal, expected to complete on 1st September, will add 12 branches across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire to LRG’s portfolio.
Henry Adams traces its history to Wyatt & Son, established in Chichester in 1826, making it one of the region’s longest-established property brands. The business adopted the Henry Adams name in 1990 and currently operates 12 branches, including two franchise locations which will continue under existing franchise agreements.
Transaction structure
The acquisition excludes Henry Adams Fine Art, Land and Planning, Rural, Valuations and Commercial divisions, which will remain separate from the LRG business. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The deal comes as consolidation continues across the property agency sector, with larger groups acquiring established regional brands to expand their geographical reach.
Henry Adams will retain its existing brand identity, with current managing director Ian Wiggett and head of residential sales Gareth Overton remaining in their positions. Local teams across all branches will continue in place.
Strategic expansion
Matthew Light, Group Mergers & Acquisitions Director at LRG, said the acquisition “significantly strengthens our presence across the South of England and creates opportunities to extend the Henry Adams brand into new areas over time.”
The transaction marks a notable expansion for LRG in a region where property market dynamics differ from other parts of the UK. While rental yields vary considerably across different UK regions, the South of England market is characterised by higher property values and established buyer demand.
Ian Wiggett stated that shareholders prioritised finding a partner that would protect the business’s name and reputation. “For our clients and teams, it will be business as usual, with the same local leadership, colleagues and approach to service,” he said.
The acquisition represents LRG’s latest move to consolidate its position in the southern England property market, adding a brand with two centuries of trading history to its existing network of agencies.
