Clifton Wealth Partnership (CWP) has acquired Hertfordshire-based Dukes IFA as part of its ongoing acquisition strategy. The deal adds approximately 170 client households and £43m in assets under management to the group.

The transaction continues CWP’s recent expansion activity. It follows the purchase of Cutting & Carter in Maldon, Essex, earlier this year.

Clifton Wealth Partnership acquisition strengthens regional presence

Dukes IFA is based in Bushey, Hertfordshire. Its client base is largely concentrated within a five-mile radius of the office, reflecting a highly localised advice model.

CWP said the acquisition supports its strategy of building scale while maintaining strong client service standards. Importantly, the firm aims to preserve continuity for clients during integration.

Anthony Carty, managing director at CWP, said: “There is a strong alignment in how we think about client relationships and the role of financial planning over the long term.

“Our priority is to ensure clients continue to receive the same level of personal service they are used to, while benefiting from the wider support, technology and infrastructure we have in place across the group.”

Long-term client relationships at the centre of the deal

Dukes IFA is led by director Adrian Duke-Cohan, who has nearly 40 years of experience in financial services. He will remain involved for a transitional period of up to two years to support clients and ensure a smooth handover.

He said: “This has always been a relationship-driven business. I’ve spent many years building trust with clients and supporting them through different stages of life, so finding the right home for those relationships was essential.

“I took time to meet a number of potential partners, but Clifton stood out. Everyone I spoke to across the business was approachable, open and genuinely focused on doing the right thing for clients.

“That gave me confidence that my clients will continue to be well looked after.”

His comments highlight the importance of cultural fit and continuity in financial planning acquisitions, particularly where long-standing client relationships are central to the business.

Continuity and integration within Clifton Wealth Partnership

CWP said Adrian Duke-Cohan will remain involved during a transitional period of up to two years. This will support client continuity and ensure a structured handover process.

Anthony Carty added: “Adrian has built a highly regarded business with deep, long-standing client relationships. That level of trust reflects years of consistent advice and care.”

The acquisition strengthens CWP’s regional footprint and supports its wider platform development strategy.

Consolidation continues across financial advice sector

The UK financial planning sector continues to see steady consolidation. Larger firms are acquiring established local practices to expand assets under management and strengthen regional coverage.

At the same time, buyer focus remains on client retention, cultural alignment, and continuity of service. These factors continue to play a central role in deal selection.

What this means for business owners

For business owners, this transaction highlights the value of established client relationships and local reputation.

It also demonstrates how smaller, regional firms remain attractive acquisition targets for growing advisory groups seeking disciplined expansion.