Vintage Wealth Management has acquired Buckinghamshire-based Financial Management Independent Financial Advice (FMIFA). The deal adds £400m of assets under advice and takes total client assets to £2.14bn. It follows Söderberg & Partners’ minority investment in January 2024.

The transaction reflects ongoing consolidation in the UK financial advice sector. Well-capitalised platforms continue to acquire established local firms to accelerate growth and enhance capability.

Strategic fit and cultural alignment

Vintage Wealth Management said FMIFA is a strong cultural fit. Both firms focus on long-term client relationships and holistic financial planning.

FMIFA was founded by Philip Harper and has operated for more than 30 years. It provides retirement planning, wealth management, protection, corporate benefits, and equity release advice.

John Morton, chief executive officer of Vintage Wealth Management, said: “FMIFA is a business that shares our culture of a high level of client care and builds trusted relationships for the long-term, making it an excellent fit for us.

FMIFA has a reputation as a highly respected local advice firm and we look forward to working closely with Philip and the team.”

Technology and investment focus

The combined business will benefit from greater scale and resources. This will support further investment in technology and operations.

Vintage said it plans to enhance internal systems and client experience. This includes investment in IT infrastructure and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency.

Morton said: “With the support of Söderberg & Partners, we’re able to continue investing in how we operate, from smarter internal systems to a dynamic client experience. That’s where the real magic happens.”

FMIFA secures long-term partner

Philip Harper said the deal followed an 18-month process to find the right partner.

“After 18 months talking with Vintage Wealth, understanding how they work and where they are going, we are now very excited for the future and confident we have made the right decision, for clients, staff and ourselves.” Andy Robinson, partner and financial planner at FMIFA, added:  “Vintage clearly places its clients and its people at the centre of their business.  The technology plans are also super focused, making it a great match for how we see advice to clients evolving in the years to come.”

Ongoing consolidation in UK advice market

The deal highlights continued consolidation across UK wealth management. Platform businesses are targeting firms with strong client relationships and clear succession needs.

Söderberg & Partners’ backing supports Vintage’s acquisition strategy. It also enables continued investment in organic growth.

What this means for business owners

For owners of financial advice firms, the transaction reinforces the importance of cultural alignment. Buyers are prioritising long-term client continuity and service quality.

It also highlights the growing importance of technology and scalable infrastructure. These factors are increasingly central to valuation and deal attractiveness.