Shackleton has agreed to acquire Scottish-based IFA Aberdein Considine Wealth Limited, trading as AC Wealth. The deal will significantly expand the consolidator’s presence in Scotland.

The transaction remains subject to Financial Conduct Authority approval. Once completed, it will add approximately £800m in assets under management and advice. This will take Shackleton’s total assets across Scotland to more than £1.3bn.

The deal will also bring 40 employees into Shackleton. This includes 14 FCA authorised and regulated financial advisers.

Building a stronger Scottish presence

Following completion, Shackleton will operate from offices in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh. It will also maintain local representation in Perth and Stirling.

The business will operate across two regions. Scotland East will have its principal office in Aberdeen. Scotland West will be based in Glasgow.

Shackleton said the structure will provide continuity for clients. Existing advisers and teams will continue to look after AC Wealth clients.

Jennifer Paice, CEO of AC Wealth, said the move would provide additional support and resources. She also highlighted the importance of maintaining existing client relationships and service.

The deal therefore represents more than an increase in assets. It also brings together two businesses that say they share similar values and a focus on client service.

Scale alongside continuity

For Shackleton, the transaction provides a significant increase in its Scottish footprint. It also strengthens its ability to operate across several locations.

Paul Feeney, CEO of Shackleton, described the deal as transformative for the firm’s Scottish operations. He highlighted the opportunity for AC Wealth clients to benefit from greater scale and resources.

Clients will continue to receive advice from their existing teams. Shackleton also expects its wider resources to support the business as it develops.

The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

What this means for business owners

The acquisition is another example of an advice business joining a larger group. It also shows how a transaction can preserve elements of an existing business.

For owners considering their own succession plans, the structure of a deal can be important. The future of clients, advisers and the wider team can all influence the choice of buyer.

A buyer’s resources are another consideration. So is its approach to integrating a business after completion.

Understanding what different buyers can offer is therefore an important part of preparing for a future transaction.

At Gunner & Co., we work with financial planning and wealth management business owners to identify suitable buyers. We also manage the transaction process around each owner’s objectives, helping them consider the wider implications of a deal.

If you’re considering succession planning or would like to understand how buyers may view your business, click here to book a free confidential consultation and discuss your options.