Leaders Romans Group (LRG) has acquired First Union, a London-based residential sales and lettings business which operates out of two branches, Battersea Square and Wandsworth.

The acquisition will further strengthen the group’s presence in south London, and both branches will be re-branded to Portico.

John Chase, director at First Union will continue in the business for a transition period. All remaining staff will transfer to LRG, including Emma Newell, group letting manager, who will remain with the business and continue to oversee the letting operations in Battersea Square and Wandsworth.

Matthew Light, group mergers and acquisitions director at LRG, said: “Following the acquisitions of Portico in 2021, then Acorn Group, Hose Rhodes Dickson and Northfields last year, our focus is very much on growth, particularly in lettings.

“With this acquisition, we aim to further strengthen our ethos of local knowledge through our high street branch network with the support of a national business, ultimately giving our clients exceptional service.

“First Union is a business with strong local sentiment and a traditional, personable approach to customer care; it couldn’t be a better fit for LRG.”

Michael Cook, group MD at LRG, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome this fantastic business into the LRG family. Our five-year strategy is focused on growth across the UK by acquiring exceptional businesses such as First Union.”

John Chase, director at First Union, added: “First Union is very much focused on providing an excellent personable service to our landlords, homeowners and tenants. By merging with LRG, that service will not only continue but thrive. I want to thank the team at First Union for their dedication and passion, which has enabled us to grow into a successful two-branch business.

“LRG’s approach to Estate Agency and Lettings is perfectly aligned with First Union’s, and I have no doubt that under the Portico brand, this will only improve further the excellent service the team provide. In addition, becoming part of the Portico brand will give all of our homeowners and tenants access to a broader community proposition, the best online customer portals, research capabilities and a great attitude towards sustainability.

“LRG’s team have been a pleasure to work with, and the whole process from start to finish has been very smooth. I’m confident that the team will thrive under new management.”